Document Document Title
US08263680B2 Acrylic polymer-based adhesives
Acrylic polymers comprising vinyl acetate monomers, hydroxyl functional monomers and low Tg alkyl acrylate monomers are useful in adhesive compositions that find use in skin contact applications.
US08263679B2 Prepolymers with dangling polysiloxane-containing polymer chains
The invention provide a new class of silicone-containing prepolymers containing dangling polysiloxane-containing polymer chains. This class of silicone-containing prepolymer is capable of being actinically crosslinked to form a silicone hydrogel material with a relatively high oxygen permeability, a reduced elastic modulus, and a relatively high ion permeability. The present invention is also related to silicone hydrogel contact lenses made from this class of silicone-containing prepolymers and to methods for making the silicone hydrogel contact lenses.
US08263670B2 Mixed fluoroalkyl-alkyl surfactants
A compound of Formula 1 Rf-A-OP(O)(O−M+)(O—RH)   Formula 1 wherein Rf is a C2 to C6 linear or branched perfluoroalkyl optionally interrupted by one, two or three ether oxygen atoms; A is (CH2CF2)m(CH2)n—, (CH2)oSO2N(CH3)(CH2)p—, O(CF2)q(CH2)r—, or OCHFCF2OE-; m is 1 to 4; n, o, p, and r are each independently 2 to 20; q is 2; E is a C2 to C20 linear or branched alkyl group optionally interrupted by oxygen, sulfur, or nitrogen atoms; a cyclic alkyl group, or a C6 to C10 aryl group; M is a Group I metal or an ammonium cation (NHxR2y)+ wherein R2 is a C1 to C4 alkyl, x is 1 to 4, y is 0 to 3 and x+y is 4; and RH is a C1 to C20 linear, branched, or cyclic alkyl, or a C6 to C10 aryl, and its use as a surfactant is disclosed.
US08263668B2 Tunable fluorescent gold nanocluster and method for forming the same
The present invention discloses a tunable fluorescent gold nanocluster. The tunable fluorescent gold nanocluster is formed by mixing gold trichloride (AuCl3) with toluene solvent without reductant. The tunable fluorescent gold nanocluster emits blue fluorescence that can be red shifted through ultrasonic vibration. The spectral region of the tunable fluorescent gold nanocluster is from 400 nm to 550 nm.
US08263666B2 Composition in the form of an oil-in-water emulsion and uses thereof
Composition for topical application in the form of an oil-in-water emulsion containing an oily phase dispersed in an aqueous phase, and a hydrophilic polymer, the composition further containing (1) at least one elastomeric organopolysiloxane and (2) at least one lipophilic compound chosen from lipophilic amino acid compounds and lipophilic salicylic acid compounds. Uses thereof, including topical application to the skin, lips, hair, etc. Stabilization of certain emulsions using a lipophilic compound.
US08263660B2 Stable hyperbaric composition comprising prilocaine HCl, use of said new composition for intrathecal anaethesia, and method for manufacturing said composition
The present invention concerns new preservative-free hyperbaric compositions of prilocaine HCI intended for use in intrathecal narcosis, characterized by high stability at ambient temperature (15° C. -27° C.). The present invention also concerns a method for manufacturing said compositions.
US08263659B2 Thyroid receptor ligands
A method is provided for preventing, inhibiting or treating diseases or disorders associated with metabolism dysfunction or which are dependent upon the expression of a T3 regulated gene, wherein a compound as described in the general formula I below is administered in a therapeutically effective amount:
US08263655B2 Methods for treatment of renal failure
Propargylamine, propargylamine derivatives N-propargyl-1-aminoindan and analogs thereof, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, are useful for administration to a subject at high risk for or suffering from acute renal failure (ARF).
US08263653B2 Pharmaceutical formulations containing lipoic acid derivatives
The invention provides ion pairs of a lipoic acid derivative and an ion pairing agent, pharmaceutical formulations containing such ion pairs, and methods of using the ion pairs and pharmaceutical formulations in the treatment of medical disorders, such as cancer. An exemplary ion pair is the ion pair formed by bis-benzyl lipoate and triethanolamine. The pharmaceutical formulations may comprise a dextrose solution as a diluent.
US08263646B2 Methods for the treatment of kidney disease
The invention provides compositions for preventing or treating kidney disease and improving kidney function comprising at least two ingredients selected from the group consisting of antioxidants and mitochondrial cofactors in amounts sufficient for preventing or treating kidney disease or for improving kidney function and methods for preventing and treating kidney disease or improving kidney function comprising administering such compositions to an animal susceptible to or suffering from kidney disease or impaired kidney function. In a preferred embodiment, the composition is admixed with one or more food ingredients to produce a food composition useful for preventing or treating kidney disease and improving kidney function, particularly in senior animals.
US08263640B2 Inhibitors of fatty acid uptake and methods of use
The present disclosure describes inhibitors of fatty acid uptake and methods of using such inhibitors. Specifically, the present disclosure describes inhibitors with specificity for FATP2.
US08263634B2 Heteroaryl-ureas and their use as glucokinase activators
This invention relates to compounds of formula (I) which are activators of glucokinase and thus may be useful for the management, treatment, control, or adjunct treatment of diseases, where increasing glucokinase activity is beneficial.
US08263633B2 Benzoxepin PI3K inhibitor compounds and methods of use
Benzoxepin compounds of Formula I, and including stereoisomers, geometric isomers, tautomers, solvates, metabolites and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein: Z1 is CR1 or N; Z2 is CR2 or N; Z3 is CR3 or N; Z4 is CR4 or N; and where (i) X1 is N and X2 is S, (ii) X1 is S and X2 is N, (iii) X1 is CR7 and X2 is S, (iv) X1 is S and X2 is CR7; (v) X1 is NR8 and X2 is N, (vi) X1 is N and X2 is NR8, (vii) X1 is CR7 and X2 is O, (viii) X1 is O and X2 is CR7, (ix) X1 is CR7 and X2 is C(R7)2, (x) X1 is C(R7)2 and X2 is CR7; (xi) X1 is N and X2 is O, or (xii) X1 is O and X2 is N, are useful for inhibiting lipid kinases including p110 alpha and other isoforms of PI3K, and for treating disorders such as cancer mediated by lipid kinases. Methods of using compounds of Formula I for in vitro, in situ, and in vivo diagnosis, prevention or treatment of such disorders in mammalian cells, or associated pathological conditions, are disclosed.
US08263631B2 Anti-cancer pharmaceutical compositions and methods for treating patients with cancer
Method of treating persons having carcinoma, sarcoma or hematopoietic cancer by administering (i) a compound of the formula (I) and (ii) an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor, a vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) inhibitor and pharmaceutical compositions for use in said method. A method for treating gastric cancer, colon cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer, pancreas cancer, kidney cancer, prostate cancer, medulloblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, liposarcoma, multiple myeloma and leukemia by administering a compound of the formula (I).
US08263630B2 1,2,3-triazoles as 11-beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type I inhibitors
Novel compounds are provided which are 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type I inhibitors. 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type I inhibitors are useful in treating, preventing, or slowing the progression of diseases requiring 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type I inhibitor therapy. These novel compounds of formula (I): or stereoisomers or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein R1, R2, and R3 are defined herein.
US08263629B2 Substituted aminobutyric derivatives as neprilysin inhibitors
The present invention provides a compound of formula I′; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R1, R2, R3, X and n are defined herein. The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing the compounds of the invention, and its therapeutic uses. The present invention further provides a combination of pharmacologically active agents and a pharmaceutical composition.
US08263628B2 Fluorine-containing organosulfur compound and pesticidal composition thereof
There is provided a fluorine-containing organosulfur compound having an excellent control effect on harmful arthropods, which is represented by the formula (I): wherein m represents 0 or 1; n represents 0, 1 or 2; A represents an optionally substituted 6-membered aromatic heterocyclic group; R1 to R4 are the same or different and represent a hydrogen atom, a C1-C4 chain hydrocarbon group optionally substituted with a halogen atom, etc.; and Q represents a C1-C5 haloalkyl group containing at least one fluorine atom, or a fluorine atom.
US08263617B2 Chromen-2-one derivatives and their use as monoamine neurotransmitter re-uptake inhibitors
This invention relates to novel chromen-2-one derivatives of Formula (I) useful as monoamine neurotransmitter re-uptake inhibitors. In other aspects the invention relates to the use of these compounds in a method for therapy and to pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds of the invention.
US08263614B2 Derivatives of 7-alkynyl-1,8-naphthyridones, preparation method thereof and use of same in therapeutics
The disclosure relates to compounds of formula (I): wherein R1, R2, R3, and R4 are as defined in the disclosure, to compositions containing them, to processes for preparing them, and to their use in therapeutics.
US08263609B2 Tetrahydro-β-carbolin-sulfonamide derivatives as 5-Ht6 ligands
The present invention relates to new tetrahydro-β-carbolin-sulfonamide derivatives of general formula (I), optionally in form of one of their stereoisomers, preferably enantiomers or diastereomers, their racemates or in form of a mixture of at least two of their stereoisomers, preferably enantiomers or diastereomers, in any mixing ratio, or corresponding physiologically acceptable salts or corresponding solvates. These compounds are suitable as pharmacologically active agents in a medicament for the prophylaxis and/or treatment of disorders or diseases related to 5-HT6 receptors. The invention also relates to two different methods for obtaining the mentioned compounds and to pharmaceutical compositions containing them.
US08263605B2 Modulators of muscarinic receptors
The present invention relates to modulators of muscarinic receptors of formula (I). The present invention also provides impositions comprising such modulators, and methods therewith for treating muscarinic receptor mediated diseases.
US08263604B2 Pyridyl- and pyrimidinyl-substituted pyrrole-, thiophene- and furane-derivatives as kinase inhibitors
The present invention provides compounds of the formula (I), or the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein G, W, R2, R3, R4, R5 and R6 are as defined in the specification. Further objects of the invention are processes and intermediates for the preparation of the compounds of the formula (I), pharmaceutical compositions comprising them and methods for treating cell proliferative disorders. As a matter of fact, the compounds of the formula (I) are useful, in therapy, in the treatment of diseases associated with a disregulated protein kinase activity, like cancer.
US08263603B2 N3-substituted-N1-sulfonyl-5-fluoropyrimidinone derivatives
This present disclosure is related to the field of N3-substituted-N1-sulfonyl-5-fluoropyrimidinones and their derivatives and to the use of these compounds as fungicides.
US08263602B2 Matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors
The present invention relates to compounds of Formula (I): or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, corresponding preparation processes, pharmaceutical formulations and methods for use as inhibitors of matrix metallproteinase enzymes (MMPs).
US08263600B2 Antifungal composition with enhanced bioavailability
A liquid suspension comprising an antifungally effective amount of the micronized compound represented by the chemical structural formula I: at least one thickening agent, a non-ionic surfactant, and a pharmaceutically acceptable liquid carrier is disclosed.
US08263598B2 Substituted sulfonamide compounds
Substituted sulfonamide compounds corresponding to the formula I wherein m, n, p, Q, R1, R2, R3, R4, X, Y and Z have the respective meanings defined herein, pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds, a process for their preparation, and the use of such compounds for the treatment and/or inhibition of pain and other conditions mediated by bradykinin receptor 1 (B1R) and/or bradykinin receptor 2 (B2R).
US08263597B2 Indazole compounds as CCR1 receptor antagonists
Disclosed indazoles compounds that are useful as antagonists of CCR1 activity and are thus useful for treating a variety of diseases and disorders that are mediated or sustained through the activity of CCR1 including autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds, methods of using these compounds in the treatment of various diseases and disorders, processes for preparing these compounds and intermediates useful in these processes.
US08263596B2 Kinase inhibitors and method of treating cancer
The invention is directed to a compound represented by the following structural formula and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof: Compounds represented by this structural formula are kinase inhibitors and are therefore disclosed herein for the treatment of cancer. Definitions for the variables in the structural formula are provided herein.
US08263587B2 Benzoxazepine compounds, their preparation and use
The invention provides a novel benzoxazepine compound of the general formula (I): wherein R1 and R2 are as defined in the specification; or a stereoisomer, a geometric isomer, a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, a pharmaceutically acceptable solvate, or a polymorph thereof; a process for its preparation; and a pharmaceutical composition including an effective amount of the compound. The compounds are useful in the treatment of insulin resistance and clinical conditions associated therewith.
US08263584B2 Imidazopyridines
The invention is concerned with novel imidazopyridine derivatives of formula (I) wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5 and A are as defined in the description and in the claims, as well as physiologically acceptable salts and esters thereof. These compounds inhibit PDE10A and can be used for the treatment of various diseases, including central nervous system disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and schizophrenia.
US08263583B2 Hydrochloride salt of 5-[3-(3-hydroxyphenoxy)azetidin-1-yl]-5-methyl-2,2-diphenylhexanamide
This invention relates to the hydrochloride salt of 5-[3-{3-hydroxyphenoxy)azetidin-1-yl]-5-methyl-2,2-diphenyl-hexanamide or derived form thereof and its use as a medicament.
US08263580B2 Vitamin formulation
A pharmaceutical aerosol foam composition, comprising: an effective amount of a pharmaceutically active ingredient, wherein said pharmaceutically active ingredient is a vitamin or analogue thereof; an occlusive agent; an aqueous solvent; an organic cosolvent; wherein the pharmaceutically active ingredient is insoluble in both water and the occlusive agent; and the occlusive agent being present in an amount sufficient to form an occlusive layer on the skin, in use. In a second embodiment, an oil-in water emulsion having a vitamin, an occlusive agent; an aqueous solvent; and an organic cosolvent, wherein the occlusive agent is present in an amount sufficient to form an occlusive layer on the skin.
US08263579B2 Anti-inflammatory compounds
This invention relates to novel compounds obtained by fermentation of Myxobacteria strain (PM0670013/MTCC 5570). The present invention further relates to the processes for the production of the novel anti-inflammatory compounds, to the culture no. PM0670013 (MTCC 5570), and to pharmaceutical compositions containing compounds of the present invention as an active ingredient and its use in medicines for the treatment of inflammatory diseases or disorders mediated by proinflammatory cytokines such as Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) and/or interleukins such as IL-6, having anti-inflammatory activity The invention also includes all stereoisomeric forms of compounds of the present invention.
US08263567B2 Treatment of hyperproliferative conditions of body surfaces
The present invention relates to pharmaceutical formulations comprising an anthracycline and the uses thereof for treatment of clinical conditions of body surfaces such as skin and mucosal membranes, wherein abnormal cell differentiation and/or hyperproliferation is a primary factor of the pathogenesis. In particular the invention relates to treatment of psoriasis, and preferably to treatment of psoriasis with valrubicin topically applied.
US08263563B2 Furin inhibitors
Inhibitors for the endoprotease furin are provided for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and study of human and animal pathologies, which involve furin activity. These pathologies include infections caused by bacteria and virus that exploit host furin activity. These pathologies also include diseases that involve the expression of host proproteins that are processed by furin as a part of growth, development, and maintenance of the host organism including certain cancers of the head and neck.
US08263556B2 Suppressive macrophages, C-reactive protein and the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus and immune thrombocytopenic
The present invention relates to the use of suppressive macrophage or dendritic cells (activated with C-reactive protein or CRP-related compounds), for the treatment of various disease states and conditions associated with immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) and/or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), including lupus of the skin (discoid), systemic lupus of the joints, lungs and kidneys, hematological conditions including hemolytic anemia and low lymphocyte counts, lymphadenopathy and CNS effects, including memory loss, seizures and psychosis, among numerous others as otherwise disclosed herein. In another aspect of the invention, the reduction in the likelihood that a patient who is at risk for an outbreak of a disease state or condition associated with systemic lupus erythematosus or ITP will have an outbreak is an additional aspect of the present invention. In the case of ITP, methods of the present invention are used to increase platelet counts in the treated patient. In addition, in the case of ITP, the present invention relates to the use of CRP or a CRP-related compound in the absence of suppressive macrophages for the treatment of ITP.
US08263553B2 Neublastin variants
Compositions and methods for folding proteins belonging to the transforming growth factor beta superfamily are disclosed. The compositions and methods allow for the folding of such proteins when produced in an expression system that does not yield a properly folded, biologically active product.
US08263551B2 Soluble, stable insulin-containing formulations with a protamine salt
The present invention relates to pharmaceutical formulations comprising insulin, an insulin analog, an insulin derivative, or a combination of any of the foregoing, and a salt of protamine, to methods of preparing such formulations, and to uses of such formulations in the treatment of diseases and conditions for which use of the insulin peptide(s) contained in such formulations is indicated. The present invention further relates to methods for increasing the stability and/or solubility of insulin in insulin-containing formulations at a pH less than 7.0 by adding a salt of protamine to the insulin-containing formulations.
US08263550B2 Exendin agonist compounds
Novel exendin agonist compounds are provided. These compounds are useful in treating Type I and II diabetes and conditions which would benefit by lower plasma glucose and delaying and/or slowing gastric emptying.
US08263541B2 Triazine derivative dye transfer inhibitors, washing products containing the same and uses therefor
Washing products which comprise a dye transfer inhibitor selected from the group consisting of triazine derivatives of the general formulae I, II, III and combinations thereof: T(NH—Ar(SO3Na)a)bHalc  (I) X(NH-T(NH—Ar(SO3Na)a)eHalf)2  (II) X(NH-T(NH—Ar(SO3Na)d—NH-T(NH—Ar(SO3Na)a)Hal)Hal)2  (III) wherein T represents a 1,3,5-triazinyl residue; each Ar independently represents a naphthalene or benzene moiety; X represents a divalent hydrocarbyl moiety selected from the group consisting of linear or branched C1-20 hydrocarbon groups which may optionally include one or more —N(H)— carbon chain interruptions, stilbene groups and biphenyl groups which may optionally be mono- or poly-SO3Na-substituted; each Hal independently represents a halogen selected from the group consisting of chlorine, bromine, and iodine; each of a and d independently represents 1, 2 or 3; b and c each represent 1 or 2 such that b+c=3; e represents 1 or 2 and f represents 0 or 1 such that e+f=2; and wherein the triazinyl residue substituents are located at the 2, 4 and 6 positions of the 1,3,5-triazinyl residue.
US08263529B2 Herbicide composition
The invention relates to a herbicide composition containing (A) an amino acid-based herbicide and (B) a compound having a branched structure represented by formula (1): R1CH2O—(R2O)nH  (1) wherein R1 represents a C3 to C29 branched alkyl or branched alkenyl group, R2 represents a C2 to C4 alkylene group, and n is a mean number in the range of 1 to 30.
US08263517B2 Hydroprocessing catalysts with low surface area binders
Catalysts for dewaxing of hydrocarbon feeds, particularly feeds with elevated sulfur and nitrogen levels, are provided. The dewaxing catalysts include a zeolite with a low silica to alumina ratio combined with a low surface binder, or alternatively the formulated catalyst has a high ratio of zeolite surface area to external surface area.
US08263514B2 Sintered product based on alumina and chromium oxide
The invention provides a sintered product presenting an apparent density greater than 4.00 g/cm3 and having the following mean chemical composition, as a percentage by weight based on the oxides and for a total of 100%: Al2O2: complement to 100% 16%≦Cr2O3≦29.5% TiO2 in a quantity such that the Cr2O3/TiO2 weight ratio is greater than 16 and less than 35, other species: ≦1% Application as an electrode bushing block.
US08263512B2 Ceramic honeycomb structure skin coating
A porous ceramic (honeycomb) structure skin coating and a method of producing a porous ceramic structure skin coating which provides a hardshell, strong, acid- and alkali-resistant, chip-resistant ceramic honeycomb structure coating which resists pollution control catalyst from being absorbed into the skin coating.
US08263494B2 Method for improved patterning accuracy for thin film photovoltaic panels
A method for patterning a thin film photovoltaic panel on a substrate characterized by a compaction parameter. The method includes forming molybdenum material overlying the substrate and forming a first plurality of patterns in the molybdenum material to configure a first patterned structure having a first inter-pattern spacing. Additionally, the method includes forming a precursor material comprising at least copper bearing species and indium bearing species overlying the first patterned structure. Then the substrate including the precursor material is subjected to a thermal processes to form at least an absorber structure.
US08263492B2 Through substrate vias
Methods and apparatus for forming through-vias are presented, for example, a method for forming a via in a portion of a semiconductor wafer comprising a substrate. The method comprises forming a trench surrounding a first part of the substrate such that the first part is separated from a second part of the substrate, forming a hole through the substrate within the first part, and forming a first metal within the hole. The trench extends through the substrate. The first metal extends from a front surface of the substrate to a back surface of the substrate. The via comprises the hole and the first metal.
US08263491B2 Substrate with feedthrough and method for producing the same
A substrate has at least one feedthrough with at least one channel from a first main surface of the substrate to a second main surface of the substrate. The at least one channel is closed off with a first material. The at least one closed-off channel is filled with an electrically conductive second material.
US08263489B2 Process for the deposition of an anti-reflection film on a substrate
A method for the deposition of an anti-reflection film on a substrate is disclosed. A substrate including a plurality of solar cell structures is provided and placed in a vacuum chamber with a target including silicon. A flow of a nitrogen-containing reactive gas into the vacuum chamber is set to a first value while a voltage between the target and ground is switched off and then increased to a second value. A voltage is applied between the target and ground, whereby a film of silicon and nitrogen is deposited on the substrate in a flow of the nitrogen-containing reactive gas which is higher than the first value.
US08263488B2 Surface-coating method
The invention relates to the deposition or attachment of materials to surfaces. It relates to a process for coating a surface with a first material and a second material, comprising the following steps: placing the first material on the said surface, inserting into the first material placed on the said surface precursor molecules of the second material, converting the said precursor molecules of the second material inserted into the first material into the said second material such that this second material becomes formed on the said surface to be coated and within the said first material placed on the said surface. The object of the process of the invention is to allow the deposition of materials of any type onto surfaces of any type.
US08263487B2 Method of forming patterns of semiconductor device
A method of forming fine patterns of a semiconductor device by using carbon (C)-containing films includes forming an etching target film on a substrate including first and second regions; forming a plurality of first C-containing film patterns on the etching target film in the first region; forming a buffer layer which covers top and side surfaces of the plurality of first C-containing film patterns; forming a second C-containing film; removing the second C-containing film in the second region; exposing the plurality of first C-containing film patterns by removing a portion of the buffer layer in the first and second regions; and etching the etching target film by using the plurality of first C-containing film patterns, and portions of the second C-containing film which remain in the first region, as an etching mask.
US08263480B2 Methods for site-selective growth of horizontal nanowires, nanowires grown by the methods and nanodevices comprising the nanowires
Methods for the site-selective growth of horizontal nanowires are provided. According to the methods, horizontal nanowires having a predetermined length and diameter can be grown site-selectively at desired sites in a direction parallel to a substrate to fabricate a device with high degree of integration. Further provided are nanowires grown by the methods and nanodevices comprising the nanowires.
US08263479B2 Method for cutting semiconductor substrate
Multiphoton absorption is generated, so as to form a part which is intended to be cut 9 due to a molten processed region 13 within a silicon wafer 11, and then an adhesive sheet 20 bonded to the silicon wafer 11 is expanded. This cuts the silicon wafer 11 along the part which is intended to be cut 9 with a high precision into semiconductor chips 25. Here, opposing cut sections 25a, 25a of neighboring semiconductor chips 25, 25 are separated from each other from their close contact state, whereby a die-bonding resin layer 23 is also cut along the part which is intended to be cut 9. Therefore, the silicon wafer 11 and die-bonding resin layer 23 can be cut much more efficiently than in the case where the silicon wafer 11 and die-bonding resin layer 23 are cut with a blade without cutting a base 21.
US08263478B2 Method for manufacturing semiconductor substrate
Hydrogen ions are implanted to a surface (main surface) of the single crystal Si substrate 10 at a dosage of 1.5×1017 atoms/cm2 or higher to form the hydrogen ion implanted layer (ion-implanted damage layer) 11. As a result of the hydrogen ion implantation, the hydrogen ion implanted boundary 12 is formed. The single crystal Si substrate 10 and the low melting glass substrate 20 are bonded together. The bonded substrate is heated at relatively low temperature, 120° C. or higher and 250° C. or lower (below a melting point of the support substrate). Further, an external shock is applied to delaminate the Si crystal film along the hydrogen ion implanted boundary 12 of the single crystal Si substrate 10 out of the heat-treated bonded substrate. Then, the surface of the resultant silicon thin film 13 is polished to remove a damaged portion, so that a semiconductor substrate can be fabricated. There can be provided a semiconductor substrate in which a high-quality silicon thin film is transferred onto a substrate made of a low melting point material.
US08263477B2 Structure for use in fabrication of PiN heterojunction TFET
A method for fabricating a structure for use in fabrication of a PiN heterojunction tunnel field effect transistor (TFET) includes forming an alignment trench in a silicon wafer; forming a silicon germanium (SiGe) growth trench in the silicon wafer; growing a p-type SiGe region in the SiGe growth trench; forming a first oxide layer over the alignment trench and the p-type SiGe region; forming a hydrogen implantation region in the silicon wafer, the hydrogen implantation region dividing the silicon wafer into a upper silicon region and a lower silicon region; bonding the first oxide layer to a second oxide layer located on a handle wafer, forming a bonded oxide layer comprising the first oxide layer and the second oxide layer; and separating the lower silicon region from the upper silicon region at the hydrogen implantation region.
US08263476B2 Manufacturing method of SOI substrate
A manufacturing method of an SOI substrate with high throughput. A semiconductor layer separated from a semiconductor substrate is transferred to a supporting substrate, thereby manufacturing an SOI substrate. First, the semiconductor substrate serving as a base of the semiconductor layer is prepared. An embrittlement layer is formed in a region at a predetermined depth of the semiconductor substrate, and an insulating layer is formed on a surface of the semiconductor substrate. After bonding the semiconductor substrate and a supporting substrate with the insulating layer interposed therebetween, the semiconductor substrate is selectively irradiated with a laser beam; accordingly, embrittlement of the embrittlement layer progresses. Then, using a physical method or heat treatment, the semiconductor substrate is separated; at that time, the region where the embrittlement has progressed in the embrittlement layer serves as a starting point.
US08263470B2 Method of fabricating semiconductor device
There is provided a method of fabricating a semiconductor including: forming a first and a second bipolar transistors on a semiconductor substrate; forming a dummy layer on, or on the periphery of, at least one region of the emitter region, the base region, or the collector region of the second bipolar transistor and on an area surrounding a contact region for establishing an electrical connection to the outside in the at least one of the emitter region, the base region, or the collector region; forming an insulation layer so as to cover the first bipolar transistor, the second bipolar transistor, and the dummy layer; forming, together with the insulation layer and in a contact region of each region of the first bipolar transistor and the second bipolar transistor, a contact hole for establishing contact with each of those regions; and embedding a conductive member in the contact holes.
US08263469B2 Methods of forming a bipolar transistor
A bipolar transistor, comprising a collector, a base and an emitter, in which the collector comprises a relatively heavily doped region, and a relatively lightly doped region adjacent the base, and in which the relatively heavily doped region is substantially omitted from an intrinsic region of the transistor.
US08263465B2 Method of forming memory with floating gates including self-aligned metal nanodots using a coupling layer
Techniques are provided for fabricating memory with metal nanodots as charge-storing elements. In an example approach, a coupling layer such as an amino functional silane group is provided on a gate oxide layer on a substrate. The substrate is dip coated in a colloidal solution having metal nanodots, causing the nanodots to attach to sites in the coupling layer. The coupling layer is then dissolved such as by rinsing or nitrogen blow drying, leaving the nanodots on the gate oxide layer. The nanodots react with the coupling layer and become negatively charged and arranged in a uniform monolayer, repelling a deposition of an additional monolayer of nanodots. In a configuration using a control gate over a high-k dielectric floating gate which includes the nanodots, the control gates may be separated by etching while the floating gate dielectric extends uninterrupted since the nanodots are electrically isolated from one another.
US08263464B2 Systems and methods for memory structure comprising a PPROM and an embedded flash memory
A memory structure that combines embedded flash memory and PPROM. The PPROM can be used as a memory structure. The flash memory can be used, e.g., as air replacement cells or back up memory, or additional memory cells. The PPROM cells are stacked on top of the flash memory cells and the PPROM density can be increased by implementing three-dimensional PPROM structures.
US08263460B2 Method for manufacturing semiconductor device with buried gates
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device comprises forming a buried gate after forming an active region to have a line type. The buried gate comprises an operational gate and a dummy gate. A height of a gate electrode layer (conductive material) of the dummy gate is formed to be lower than that of a gate electrode layer of the operational gate, thereby increasing a threshold voltage and preventing an overlap of the ion-implanted active region with the dummy gate. As a result, a Gate Induced Drain Leakage (GIDL) is prevented to improve a refresh characteristic of the semiconductor device.
US08263458B2 Process margin engineering in charge trapping field effect transistors
Embodiments of the present technology are directed toward charge trapping region process margin engineering for charge trapping field effect transistor. The techniques include forming a plurality of shallow trench isolation regions on a substrate, wherein the tops of the shallow trench isolation regions extend above the substrate by a given amount. A portion of the substrate is oxidized to form a tunneling dielectric region. A first set of one or more nitride layers are deposited on the tunneling dielectric region and shallow trench isolation regions, wherein a thickness of the first set of nitride layers is approximately half of the given amount that the tops of the shallow trench isolation regions extend above the substrate. A portion of the first set of nitride layers is etched back to the tops of the trench isolation regions. A second set of one or more nitride layers is deposited on the etched back first set of nitride layers. The second set of nitride layers is oxidized to form a charge trapping region on the tunneling dielectric region and a blocking dielectric region on the charge trapping region. A gate region is then deposited on the blocking dielectric region.
US08263448B2 Thin film transistor with contact holes having different widths and method of manufacturing the same
A thin film transistor comprises a substrate; a semiconductor layer disposed on the substrate, the semiconductor layer having a source region, a drain region, and a channel region between the source region and the drain region; a gate insulating layer disposed on the semiconductor layer and on the substrate; a gate electrode disposed on the insulating layer over the channel region; an passivation layer disposed on the gate electrode and the gate insulating layer; a source electrode disposed in contact with upper, lower and side surfaces of the source region via a first contact hole through passivation layer, the gate insulating layer and the semiconductor layer; and a drain electrode disposed in contact with upper, lower and side surfaces of the drain region via a second contact hole through the passivation layer, the gate insulating layer and the semiconductor layer.
US08263445B2 Pixel structure and method for forming the same
A pixel structure comprising at least one transistor, a first storage capacitor, a first conductive layer, an interlayer dielectric layer, a second conductive layer, a passivation layer, and a third conductive layer is provided. The first storage capacitor is electrically connected to the transistor. The interlayer dielectric layer having at least one first opening covers the first conductive layer. The second conductive layer is formed on a part of the interlayer dielectric layer and is electrically connected to the first conductive layer through the first opening. The passivation layer having at least one second opening covers the transistor and the second conductive layer. The third conductive layer is formed on a part of the passivation layer and is electrically connected to the transistor through the second opening. The first storage capacitor is formed by the third conductive layer, the passivation layer, and the second conductive layer.
US08263444B2 Methods of forming semiconductor-on-insulating (SOI) field effect transistors with body contacts
Semiconductor-on-insulator (SOI) field effect transistors include a semiconductor substrate and a first semiconductor active region on a first portion of a surface of the substrate. A first electrically insulating layer is provided. This first electrically insulating layer extends on a second portion of the surface of the substrate and also on a first sidewall of the first semiconductor active region. A second electrically insulating layer is provided, which extends on a third portion of the surface of the semiconductor substrate. The second electrically insulating layer also extends on a second sidewall of the first semiconductor active region. A second semiconductor active region is provided on the first semiconductor active region. The second semiconductor active region extends on the first semiconductor active region and on ends of the first and second electrically insulating layers. Source and drain regions are also provided, which are electrically coupled to opposite ends of the second semiconductor active region. An insulated gate electrode extends on the second semiconductor active region and opposite the first semiconductor active region.
US08263439B2 Semiconductor device and method of forming an interposer package with through silicon vias
A semiconductor device has a carrier for supporting the semiconductor device. A first semiconductor die is mounted over the carrier. A first dummy die having a first through-silicon via (TSV) is mounted over the carrier. The first semiconductor die and the first dummy die are encapsulated using a wafer molding material. The carrier is removed. A first redistribution layer (RDL) is formed over a first surface of the first semiconductor die and a first surface of the first dummy die to electrically connect the first TSV and a contact pad of the first semiconductor die. An insulation layer is formed over the first RDL. A second RDL is formed over a second surface of the first dummy die opposite the first surface of the first dummy die and electrically connected to the first TSV. A semiconductor package is connected to the second RDL.
US08263436B2 Apparatus for restricting moisture ingress
Apparatus and methods to protect circuitry from moisture ingress, e.g., using a metallic structure as part of a moisture ingress barrier.
US08263435B2 Semiconductor device and method of stacking semiconductor die in mold laser package interconnected by bumps and conductive vias
A semiconductor wafer contains a plurality of first semiconductor die. The semiconductor wafer is mounted to a carrier. A channel is formed through the semiconductor wafer to separate the first semiconductor die. A second semiconductor die is mounted to the first semiconductor die. An encapsulant is deposited over the carrier and first semiconductor die and into the channel while a side portion and surface portion of the second semiconductor die remain exposed from the encapsulant. A first conductive via is formed through the encapsulant in the channel. A second conductive via is formed through the encapsulant over a contact pad of the first semiconductor die. A conductive layer is formed over the encapsulant between the first and second conductive vias. An insulating layer is formed over the conductive layer and encapsulant. The carrier is removed. An interconnect structure is formed over the first conductive via.
US08263433B2 Method of fabricating an active device array and fabricating an organic light emitting diode array
Methods of fabricating active device array and organic light emitting diode array are provided. A first pattern metal layer is formed over a substrate. An oxide semiconductor layer is formed entirely over the substrate. A first insulation layer covering the first patterned metal layer and the oxide semiconductor layer is formed entirely on the substrate. A second patterned metal layer is formed on the first insulation layer. The oxide semiconductor layer and the first insulation layer is patterned by using the second patterned metal layer as a mask to form a first patterned oxide semiconductor layer and a first patterned insulation layer. A second insulation layer is entirely formed on the substrate. A second patterned oxide semiconductor layer is formed over the second insulation layer. A third patterned metal layer is formed over the second insulation layer.
US08263431B2 Thiazole-based semiconductor compound and organic thin film transistor using the same
Provided are an organic semiconductor compound using thiazole, and an organic thin film transistor having an organic semiconductor layer formed of the organic semiconductor compound using thiazole. The novel organic semiconductor compound including thiazole has liquid crystallinity and excellent thermal stability, and thus is provided to form an organic semiconductor layer in the organic thin film transistor. To this end, a silicon oxide layer is formed on a silicon substrate, and an organic semiconductor layer including thiazole is formed on the silicon oxide layer. In addition, source and drain electrodes are formed on both edge portions of the organic semiconductor layer. The organic thin film transistor using the organic semiconductor layer has an improved on/off ratio and excellent thermal stability. Also, a solution process can be applied in its manufacture.
US08263430B2 Capping layer formation onto a dual damescene interconnect
A process for the formation of a capping layer on a conducting interconnect for a semiconductor device is provided, the process comprising the steps of: (a) providing one or more conductors in a dielectric layer, and (b) depositing a capping layer on an upper surface of at least some of the one or more conductors, characterized in that the process further includes: (c) the step of, prior to depositing the capping layer, reacting the dielectric layer with an organic compound in a liquid phase, the said organic compound having the following general formula: (I) where X is a functional group, R is an organic group or a organosiloxane group, Y1 is either a functional group or an organic group or organosiloxane group, and Y2 is either a functional group or an organic group or organosiloxane group, and where the functional group(s) is/are independently selected from the following: NH2, a secondary amine, a tertiary amine, acetamide, trifluoroacetamide, imidazole, urea, OH, an alkyoxy, acryloxy, acetate, SH, an alkylthiol, sulfonate, methanosulfonate, and cyanide, and salts thereof.
US08263429B2 Light-emitting component and process for its preparation
A light-emitting component comprising organic layers and having several layers between a base contact and a cover contact, the corresponding process for its preparation. At least one polymer layer and two molecular layers are arranged, so that when the cover contact is a cathode, the layer adjacent to the cover contact is designed as an electron-transporting molecular layer and is doped with an organic or inorganic donor, the electron-transporting layer comprising a principal organic substance and a donor-type doping substance, the molecular weight of the dopant being more than 200 g/mole. When the cover contact is an anode, the layer adjacent to the cover contact is designed as a p-doped hole-transporting molecular layer and is doped with an organic or inorganic acceptor, the hole-transporting layer comprising a principal organic substance and an acceptor-like doping substance, the molecular weight of the dopant being more than 200 g/mole.
US08263428B2 Polymer electrolytes for dye-sensitized solar cells and method for manufacturing modules of dye-sensitized solar cells using the same
This disclosure provides polymer electrolytes for dye-sensitized solar cells that can not only prevent electrolytes from leaking, but also exhibit a higher solar conversion efficiency when compared with conventional polymer electrolytes, whereby the polymer electrolytes are applicable to a process for manufacturing dye-sensitized solar cells with a large surface area or flexible dye-sensitized solar cells, and methods for manufacturing modules of dye-sensitized solar cells using the same.
US08263426B2 High-sensitivity z-axis vibration sensor and method of fabricating the same
Provided is a high-sensitivity MEMS-type z-axis vibration sensor, which may sense z-axis vibration by differentially shifting an electric capacitance between a doped upper silicon layer and an upper electrode from positive to negative or vice versa when center mass of a doped polysilicon layer is moved due to z-axis vibration. Particularly, since a part of the doped upper silicon layer is additionally connected to the center mass of the doped polysilicon layer, and thus an error made by the center mass of the doped polysilicon layer is minimized, it may sensitively respond to weak vibration of low frequency such as seismic waves. Accordingly, since the high-sensitivity MEMS-type z-axis vibration sensor sensitively responds to a small amount of vibration in a low frequency band, it can be applied to a seismograph sensing seismic waves of low frequency which have a very small amount of vibration and a low vibration speed. Moreover, since the high-sensitivity MEMS-type z-axis vibration sensor has a higher vibration sensibility than MEMS-type z-axis vibration sensor of the same size, it can be useful in electronic devices which are gradually decreasing in size.
US08263425B2 Multilayer substrate having gallium nitride layer and method for forming the same
The present invention provides a method for forming a multilayer substrate having a gallium nitride layer, wherein a mesh layer having a plurality of openings is formed on a substrate, and a buffer layer, three aluminum gallium nitride layers with different aluminum concentrations and a gallium nitride layer are formed in sequence on the substrate in the openings. The three aluminum gallium nitride layers with different aluminum concentrations are capable of releasing stress, decreasing cracks on the surface of the gallium nitride layer and controlling interior defects, such that the present invention provides a gallium nitride layer with larger area, greater thickness, no cracks and high quality for facilitating the formation of high performance electronic components in comparison with the prior art. The present invention further provides a multilayer substrate having a gallium nitride layer.
US08263424B2 Opto-electronic and electronic devices using an N-face or M-plane gallium nitride substrate prepared via ammonothermal growth
A method for growing III-V nitride films having an N-face or M-plane using an ammonothermal growth technique. The method comprises using an autoclave, heating the autoclave, and introducing ammonia into the autoclave to produce smooth N-face or M-plane Gallium Nitride films and bulk GaN.
US08263423B2 Silicon/germanium oxide particle inks and processes for forming solar cell components and for forming optical components
Highly uniform silica nanoparticles can be formed into stable dispersions with a desirable small secondary particle size. The silican particles can be surface modified to form the dispersions. The silica nanoparticles can be doped to change the particle properties and/or to provide dopant for subsequent transfer to other materials. The dispersions can be printed as an ink for appropriate applications. The dispersions can be used to selectively dope semiconductor materials such as for the formation of photovoltaic cells or for the formation of printed electronic circuits.
US08263420B2 Optimized electrodes for Re-RAM
Optimized electrodes for ReRAM memory cells and methods for forming the same are discloses. One aspect comprises forming a first electrode, forming a state change element in contact with the first electrode, treating the state change element, and forming a second electrode. Treating the state change element increases the barrier height at the interface between the second electrode and the state change element. Another aspect comprises forming a first electrode in a manner to deliberately establish a certain degree of amorphization in the first electrode, forming a state change element in contact with the first electrode. The degree of amorphization of the first electrode is either at least as great as the degree of amorphization of the state change element or no more than 5 percent less than the degree of amorphization of the state change element.
US08263419B2 Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same
According to the present invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, including the steps of forming an insulating film on a silicon substrate, forming a first conductive film on the insulating film, forming an aluminum crystal layer on the first conductive film, forming a ferroelectric film containing Pb(ZrxTi1-x)O3 (where 0≦x≦1) on the aluminum crystal layer, forming a second conductive film on the ferroelectric film, and patterning the first conductive film, the ferroelectric film, and the second conductive film to form a capacitor including a lower electrode, a capacitor dielectric film, and an upper electrode which are laminated sequentially.
US08263418B2 Sensors for detecting an analyte using silver nanoparticles
A sensor comprises silver nanoparticles in which substantially all of the surfaces of the silver nanoparticles are available for interaction with an analyte or for functionalization with a receptor which is capable of interacting with an analyte. Silver nanoparticles are preparated by forming the nanoparticles in the presence of a polymeric stabilizer such as PVA.
US08263417B2 Self-illuminating dot systems and methods of use thereof
Generally, conjugate systems, self-illuminating quantum dot conjugates, methods of detecting a target in a host, methods of treating a disease in a host, and the like, are described herein.
US08263415B2 Method of determining analyte concentration
A method of determining the total concentration of an analyte in a fluid sample, wherein at least part of the analyte is present as a complex with an analyte-binding species. The methods includes the steps of: a) subjecting the sample to conditions that reduce the binding affinity between analyte and analyte-binding species sufficiently to dissociate substantially any analyte complex and provide substantially all analyte in free form, b) subjecting the sample to conditions that restore the binding affinity between analyte and analyte-binding species, and c) immediately after the binding affinity has been restored, and before any substantial re-complexing of the analyte has taken place, determining the concentration of free analyte in the sample. A method of determining the concentration of complex-bound analyte in a sample is also disclosed.
US08263411B2 Capacitive morpholino diagnostics for analysis of nucleic acids
A method to monitor the progress of hybridization between nucleic acid strands in solution and Morpholino strands immobilized on a solid support such as a working electrode in-situ, in real-time, and using label-free electrochemical measurements sensitive to hybridization-induced changes in the near-surface dielectric constant and charge organization.
US08263406B2 Enriched or purified population of motor neurons and its preparation from a population of embryonic stem cells
The present invention is directed to a method of isolating an enriched or purified population of motor neurons from a population of embryonic stem cells. This method involves providing a population of embryonic stem cells and selecting a promoter or enhancer which functions only in the motor neurons selected. A nucleic acid molecule encoding a marker protein under control of the promoter or enhancer is introduced into the induced population of embryonic stem cells. The motor neurons are allowed to express the marker protein and, the cells expressed in the marker protein are separated from the population of embryonic stem cells. The population of embryonic stem cells can be induced to produce a mixed population of cells comprising motor neurons before or after a nucleic acid molecule encoding the marker protein under control of the promoter enhancer is introduced into the population of embryonic stem cells. As a result, an enriched or purified population of motor neurons is isolated.
US08263403B2 Methods and compositions for stem cell self-renewal
The present invention relates to methods for expanding a stem cell population. More particularly, the invention relates, inter alia, to methods and compositions for expanding a stem cell population, particularly a hematopoietic stem cell population.
US08263400B2 Method for expanding adult stem cells from blood and compositions and methods for using the same
A method for the expansion of adult stem cells from blood, particularly but not only peripheral blood, involves removing adult stem cells from blood of a mammal, immediately expanding the stem cells via in-vitro treatment with MCSF (Macrophage Colony Stimulating Factor) at a concentration of about 8-15 nM, and purifying the expanded stem cells. Compositions and methods of using the expanded adult stem cells are also described.
US08263399B2 Soybean transcription terminators and use in expression of transgenic genes in plants
Five novel plant transcription terminators MYB2, KTI1, PIP1, EF1A2, and MTH1 are isolated from soybean and their functions in the regulation of RNA transcription and processing in plants are described.
US08263395B2 Recombinant adenoviruses preparation and adenovirus banks
The invention concerns compositions and methods for preparing recombinant adenoviruses. The resulting adenoviruses can be used for transferring and/or expressing genes in cells, in vitro, ex vivo or in vivo, or also in functional genomics. More particularly, the invention concerns in particular efficient methods for producing adenovirus banks and the use of said banks in functional genomics. The invention also concerns plasmids used for constructing said adenoviruses.
US08263385B2 S-triazine-herbicide-degrading bacteria, product for the bioremediation and method of bioremediation
The present invention provides a bacterial strain which is able to degrade or mineralize s-triazine compounds, such as simazine, which corresponds to Pseudomonas sp. strain MHP41, deposited under the accession number NRRL B-30908. The present invention provides a product for the bioremediation of environments contaminated with s-triazine, where the product includes a bacterial inoculum of Pseudomonas sp. strain MHP41. The present invention further provides a method for the bioremediation of environments contaminated with s-triazines, which uses this product for the bioremediation.
US08263383B2 Carbonic anhydrase having increased stability under high temperature conditions
The present invention relates to polynucleotide and polypeptide sequences of novel carbonic anhydrase variants having increased stability under high temperature conditions compared to native carbonic anhydrase.
US08263379B2 Modified family 6 glycosidases with altered substrate specificity
A modified Family 6 glycosidase enzyme comprising amino acid substitutions at one or more positions selected from the group 182, 367, 399, 400 and 427 is provided (the position determined form alignment of a parental Family 6 glycosidase with SEQ ID NO: 1). Genetic constructs and genetically modified microbes comprising nucleic sequences encoding the modified Family 6 glycosidase are also provided. Family 6 glycosidase of the invention display decreased hydrolysis activity of beta 1-4 linked polysaccharides and increased hydrolysis activity of beta 1-3, 1-4 linked polysaccharides compared with a parental Family 6 glycosidase. Such glycosidases find use in a variety of applications in industry, e.g., in hydrolysis of beta 1-3, 1-4 linked polysaccharides during the processing of cereal grains or the production of alcohol, animal feed or food products.
US08263378B2 Human β-adrenergic receptor kinase polypeptide and methods
Various embodiments of the invention provide human kinases and phosphatases (KPP) polypeptides and polynucleotides which identify and encode KPP. Embodiments of the invention also provide expression vectors, host cells, antibodies, agonists, and antagonists. Other embodiments provide methods for diagnosing, treating, or preventing disorders associated with aberrant expression of KPP.
US08263375B2 Dynamic monitoring of activation of G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) and receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) in living cells using real-time microelectronic cell sensing technology
The present application includes systems and methods for identifying a compound capable of interacting with a G-Protein Coupled Receptor (GPCR) or Receptor Tyrosine Kinase (RTK) including providing a device capable of measuring cell-substrate impedance operably connected to an impedance analyzer, adding test cells expressing a GPCR or a RTK to wells of the device, measuring first impedances of the wells and optionally determining first cell indices from the first impedances, adding a compound to at least one well containing test cells to form at least one compound well and adding a vehicle control to at least another well containing test cells to form at least one control well, measuring second impedances of the compound well and the control well and optionally determining second cell indices from the second impedances, determining the change in the impedance or cell index for the compound well and the one control well, comparing the change in impedance or cell index between the compound well and the control well, and identifying the compound interacts with the GPCR or RTK if the comparison demonstrates a significant difference between the change in impedance or cell index of the compound well and the control well.
US08263373B2 Method for producing polyhydroxyalkanoic acid
Embodiments of the invention relate to the microbial production of polyhydroxyalkanoic acids, or polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), from substrates which cannot be used as a source of carbon and/or energy for microbial growth or PHA synthesis and which have microbial and environmental toxicity. According to one embodiment of the invention, a process for the production of PHA is provided wherein an enzyme such as methane monooxygenase is used to convert volatile organic compounds into PHA through the use of microorganisms that are unable to use volatile organic compounds as a source of carbon for growth or PHA production.
US08263372B2 Carbon capture in fermentation
The present invention relates to improvement in efficiency in gasification for use with syngas fermentation. In particular, the invention relates to increasing the overall carbon capture efficiency of a gasification/fermentation process to produce products such as alcohols.
US08263370B2 Process for continuously preparing urethane-containing (meth)acrylic esters
A process for preparing urethane-containing (meth)acrylic esters (U) by reacting a urethane-containing alcohol (A) with a (meth)acrylic ester of a saturated alcohol (G) in the presence of at least one polymerization inhibitor (P) with an enzyme (E) as a catalyst in a reactor, wherein the (meth)acrylic ester of a saturated alcohol (G) and the urethane-containing alcohol (A) are passed continuously through at least one fixed bed reactor filled with an immobilized enzyme (E) as a catalyst.
US08263369B2 Compound ceramidastin, method for producing the same, and use of the same
A compound having a structure expressed by the following Structural Formula (1):
US08263365B2 Method of determining the nucleotide sequence of oligonucleotides and DNA molecules
The present invention relates to a novel method for analyzing nucleic acid sequences based on real-time detection of DNA polymerase-catalyzed incorporation of each of the four nucleotide bases, supplied individually and serially in a microfluidic system, to a reaction cell containing a template system comprising a DNA fragment of unknown sequence and an oligonucleotide primer. Incorporation of a nucleotide base into the template system can be detected by any of a variety of methods including but not limited to fluorescence and chemiluminescence detection. Alternatively, microcalorimetic detection of the heat generated by the incorporation of a nucleotide into the extending template system using thermopile, thermistor and refractive index measurements can be used to detect extension reactions.
US08263364B2 Method of determining the nucleotide sequence of oligonucleotides and DNA molecules
The present invention relates to a novel method for analyzing nucleic acid sequences based on real-time detection of DNA polymerase-catalyzed incorporation of each of the four nucleotide bases, supplied individually and serially in a microfluidic system, to a reaction cell containing a template system comprising a DNA fragment of unknown sequence and an oligonucleotide primer. Incorporation of a nucleotide base into the template system can be detected by any of a variety of methods including but not limited to fluorescence and chemiluminescence detection. Alternatively, microcalorimetic detection of the heat generated by the incorporation of a nucleotide into the extending template system using thermopile, thermistor and refractive index measurements can be used to detect extension reactions.
US08263361B2 Stabilized hematoxylin
A stabilized hematoxylin composition is disclosed that includes one or both of a host compound and an antioxidant. The disclosed composition exhibits sufficient stability to be utilized in an automated staining process without undue degradation prior to use of the composition to stain a biological sample. Methods of using and making the stabilized composition also are disclosed.
US08263360B2 Hydrophilic IR transparent membrane, spectroscopic sample holder comprising same and method of using same
The present invention features hydrophilic IR-transparent porous membranes, particularly hydrophilic IR-transparent porous polyethylene membranes and methods of preparing the hydrophilic membranes by treatment of hydrophobic IR-transparent porous membranes with plasma. The present invention further features spectroscopic sample holders which incorporate the hydrophilic IR-transparent porous membranes and methods of identifying bacteria and other microorganisms in samples by infrared spectroscopy.
US08263358B2 Intracellular nanosensors and methods for their introduction into cells
The invention provides ion-selective sensors capable of selectively measuring ions, e.g., Na+, K+, Cl−, etc., in the cytosol of a single living cell. The sensor comprises one or more quantum dots or a fluorescent dye, a pH-sensitive dye, and optionally an ion-selective component such as an ionophore. These elements may, for example, be disposed in a polymer matrix. The polymer matrix comprises an internalizing moiety which enables the sensor to localize within the cytosol of a cell. The internalizing moiety comprises a small molecule or peptide such as an amine, antepennepedia, mastoparan, or melittin that react under acidic conditions to release a sensor from the confines of a endosome. Once in the cytosol the sensors may detect ionic analytes by selective ion extraction by the polymer, thereby inducing a pH change within the sensor which in turn changes the absorbance of the pH-sensitive dye. The change of absorbance may in turn attenuate the intensity of detectable emissions, e.g., fluorescence, from the quantum dot or dye by directly absorbing its fluorescence emission.
US08263352B2 Diagnostic method for diseases by screening for hepcidin in human or animal tissues, blood or body fluids and therapeutic uses therefor
The present invention concerns a method of detecting hepcidin, prohepcidin or fragments thereof, by contacting the sample with an antibody or fragment thereof that specifically binds to one or more epitopes contained within amino acids 28-47 of SEQ ID NO:2.
US08263349B2 Antibody specific for a mammalian sphingosine kinase type 2 isoform protein and methods of use thereof
Polyclonal or monoclonal antibodies which are specific for a mammalian sphingosine kinase type 2 isoform protein and methods for detecting the presence of sphingosine kinase type 2 isoform using the antibodies.
US08263348B2 Abnormal prion protein binder, and method for detection of abnormal prion protein
Disclosed are: a method for detecting pathogenic isoform of prion protein as distinguished from normal prion protein in a simple manner, rapidly, with a high degree of sensitivity and quantitatively without the need of the enzymatic treatment with protease K; and a reagent for use in the method. Specifically disclosed are: a pathogenic isoform of prion protein binder which comprises lactoferrin; and a method for detecting pathogenic isoform of prion protein by using the pathogenic isoform of prion protein binder.
US08263344B2 Compounds regulating calreticulin, KDEL receptor and/or Erp-57 cell surface exposure and uses thereof to evaluate the efficiency of a cancer treatment
The present invention relates to a method for determining the susceptibility of a patient tumor cell to a cancer treatment, which method comprises the detection or measure of CRT, KDEL receptor and/or ERp57 on the surface of a tumor cell.
US08263343B2 Preparation of biomolecules
The present invention relates to a method of separating a target from a liquid, which includes providing a polymer in an aqueous liquid, which polymer comprises at least one hydrophobic portion; contacting the polymer-containing liquid with the liquid comprising the target; applying a stimulus to the resulting mixture; and maintaining it until a reversible phase separation is obtained. One phase is polymer-rich and contains target(s) and another phase is polymer-poor. By either maintaining the stimulus, or applying a different stimulus and maintaining it, the polymer-rich phase is transformed into a substantially solid phase.
US08263341B2 Assays that detect T1R expressing cells
Newly identified mammalian taste-cell-specific G protein-coupled receptors, and the genes and cDNA encoding said receptors are described. Specifically, T1R G protein-coupled receptors active in taste signaling, and the genes and cDNA encoding the same, are described, along with methods for isolating such genes and for isolating and expressing such receptors. Methods for representing taste perception of a particular tastant in a mammal are also described, as are methods for generating novel molecules or combinations of molecules that elicit a predetermined taste perception in a mammal, and methods for simulating one or more tastes. Further, methods for stimulating or blocking taste perception in a mammal are also disclosed.
US08263334B2 Method of nucleic acid sequence detection and nucleic acid sequence detection substrate
According to an aspect of the present invention, a pair of oligonucleotide strands are anchored onto the surface of a substrate by immobilizing one of the ends thereof onto the substrate. Each of the immobilized oligonucleotide strands is bound to a target nucleic acid sequence (single-stranded) having complementary sequences thereto to form a cross-linked structure on the substrate, thereby forming a finely reticulated space. Ligands are captured by this reticulated space through physical adsorption and caused to color with active substances reactive to the ligands. As a result of this, the present invention is capable of highly sensitively detecting even an exceedingly small concentration of a particular target nucleic acid sequence to be detected, at low cost and for a short time.
US08263332B2 Mismatched end DNA ligase
A mismatched end DNA ligase is provided, which ligates two single strands to each other at a high efficiency, even if the other two single strands are not compatible. In one embodiment, the polypeptides of the ligase are Ku, Cernunnos, and XRCC4/Ligase4 (XL). This association can ligate DNA ends with a 3′ overhang to a recessed 5′ end, to a blunt end, or to a compatible end. In another embodiment, the proteins are Ku, Cernunnos, XRCC4/Ligase4 (XL) and DNA-PK.
US08263330B1 Detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex nucleic acids
Disclosed is a method for determining the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex nucleic acids in a test sample. In particular, regions of the IS6110 preferential locus (ipl) 3′-flanking region of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex genome are amplified and detected. In addition, oligonucleotides that can be used as primers to amplify the ipl 3′-flanking region and probe oligonucleotides are described.
US08263327B2 Enzymatic method for the production of microcapsules
The present invention provides a process for producing microcapsules. The microcapsules have an effect-substance-containing capsule core and a polymer-containing capsule covering. The capsule covering is formed by enzyme-catalyzed polymerization of monomers which are present in an inverse miniemulsion, as well as microcapsules and dispersions. The present invention also provides for using the microcapsules and microcapsule dispersions as components in colorants, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, crop protection agents, fertilizers, and additives for foods or animal feed.
US08263325B2 Predicting, detecting and monitoring treatment of cardiomyopathies and myocarditis
The present invention provides a method of diagnosing or detecting cardiomyopathies or myocarditis in a patient following an infection. The method comprises obtaining a sample of a biological fluid from the patient, and determining the level of a brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) or a fragment thereof, atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) or a fragment thereof, or both, within the sample of body fluid. The current invention also relates to the monitoring of treatment of cardiomyopathies or myocarditis as a result of an infection, by determining the levels of BNP or a fragment thereof, ANF or a fragment thereof, or both, at one or more than period prior to and optionally subsequent to, treatment. The step of determining the concentration of BNP or ANF involves an assay comprising at least one antibody exhibiting affinity for the BNP or a fragment thereof, ANF or a fragment thereof, and the biological fluid comprises plasma, urine or cerebrospinal fluid. Furthermore, the antibody used within the method may comprise a polyclonal antibody, a monoclonal antibody, or a combination thereof. The method described herein may also involves obtaining at least two samples of body fluid from the patient over a period of time and comparing the BNP, ANF, or both BNP and ANF levels, with a significant decrease of BNP, ANF or both BNP and ANF being indicative of a positive effect of treatment.
US08263324B2 Nucleic acid isolation
The present invention relates to a method of isolating nucleic acid from a blood sample, said method comprising: (a) selectively isolating leucocytes from said sample by binding said leucocytes to a solid support by means of a binding partner specific for leucocytes; (b) lysing said isolated leucocytes; and (c) binding nucleic acid released from said lysed cells to said solid support. Kits for isolating nucleic acid from samples form further embodiments of the invention.
US08263322B2 Method of forming resist pattern
A method of forming a resist pattern that includes: applying a positive chemically amplified resist composition to a support to form a first resist film, exposing a region on a portion of the first resist film, performing a post exposure bake treatment and then performing developing to form a first resist pattern, and applying a negative chemically amplified resist composition to the support having the first resist pattern formed thereon, thereby forming a second resist film, exposing a region of the second resist film that includes the positions in which the first resist pattern has been formed, performing a post exposure bake treatment at a bake temperature that increases the solubility of the first resist film in an alkali developing solution and decreases the solubility of the second resist film in an alkali developing solution, and then performing developing to form a resist pattern.
US08263319B2 Display member exposing method and plasma display member manufacturing method
A manufacturing method for a plasma display member wherein generation of defects such as interruption and short-circuit of a pattern obtained after exposure and development is suppressed and yield is improved, even when a foreign material is adhered on a photo mask or photo mask is scratched. An exposing method for a display member wherein a display member having a photosensitive layer formed on a base substrate is exposed through a photo mask having a desired pattern. The exposing method for the display member is characterized in that the photo mask and the base substrate are relatively shifted during exposure operation.
US08263305B2 Method for producing toner
Provided is a method for producing a toner having excellent particle size distribution and storage stability. The method set forth in the present specification is a method for producing a toner by aggregating and fusing base microparticles whose main component is a binder resin including anionic groups, wherein an aggregate is produced by aggregating the base microparticles in a base microparticle suspension, in a presence of a non-ionic surfactant such that a surface tension of an aqueous solution thereof is not lower than 45 mN/m at any concentration at or above a critical micelle concentration, and the toner is produced through fusion of the aggregate. According to this method, drops in a glass transition temperature of the toner can be curbed, and the toner having excellent storage stability and good particle size distribution can be obtained.
US08263300B2 Electrophotographic photoconductor, image forming apparatus, and process cartridge
The present invention provides an electrophotographic photoconductor having a support, at least an intermediate layer, and a photosensitive layer, the intermediate layer and photosensitive layer being laid in this order over the support, wherein the intermediate layer comprises an amorphous oxide semiconductor.
US08263299B2 Electrophotographic photoreceptor, process cartridge, and image forming apparatus
An electrophotographic photoreceptor comprises: an electroconductive support; and a photosensitive layer on the electroconductive support, wherein the photosensitive layer having a dynamic hardness of from 20×109 to 150×109 N/m2 and an elastic deformation ratio of from 15 to 80%.
US08263296B2 Lithographic apparatus and device manufacturing method
A lithographic system includes a monitored lithographic projection apparatus arranged to project a patterned beam onto a substrate. A scatterometer measures a plurality of parameters of the pattern transferred to the substrate including at least one CD-profile parameter and at least one further parameter of the pattern transferred to the substrate which is indicative of a machine setting of the monitored lithographic projection apparatus. A matching system includes a database storing information representative of reference CD values and reference values for the further feature. A comparison arrangement compares the measured values with the corresponding stored values, a lithographic parameter calculation means calculating a corrected set of machine settings for the monitored lithographic apparatus dependent on the differences between the measured and reference values.
US08263292B2 Method for producing counterfeit-proof confidential and valuable documents
A production method is provided by which a copied volume hologram from a multi-layer master is later customized by utilization of the color tuning properties of the light-curable materials used for the application onto personal documents. These holographic individual data, such as a passport photo, are also separately detectable, without the holographic elements copied from the master, that are visible under other viewing angles, impairing the visibility of the individual data. The volume hologram overlay obtained by this method is applied on personal and valuable documents to increase protection against forgery, possesses superimposed optically variable items of information that are separately visible under different viewing angles and give a defined color change under different view angles, wherein at least one of these items of optical information represents individual personal data, in particular a passport photograph.
US08263287B2 Polymer electrolyte membranes comprising alkyl graft chains and a process for producing the same
Polymer electrolyte membranes for use in fuel cells are produced by first graft polymerizing acrylic acid derivatives or vinylketone derivatives as monomers on polymer substrates and by then performing selective conversion to a sulfonic acid group of hydrogen atoms on the carbon atom adjacent to the carbonyl in the ketone or carboxyl group on the graft chains.
US08263286B2 Membrane-electrode assembly and polymer electrolyte fuel cell
A membrane-electrode assembly for polymer electrolyte fuel cells comprising a polymer electrolyte membrane and two gas diffusion electrodes being bonded to the membrane so that the membrane can be between them, in which assembly each gas diffusion electrode is comprised of an electrode catalyst layer and a gas diffusion layer, intermediate layer(s) being an ion conductor is/are arranged between the electrode catalyst layer(s) and the membrane, the ion conductor mainly comprises a block copolymer comprising a polymer block (A) having ion-conductive groups and a polymer block (B) having no ion-conductive group, both blocks phase-separate from each other, (A) forms a continuous phase, and the contact part(s) of the intermediate layer(s) with the polymer electrolyte membrane and the contact part(s) of the intermediate layer(s) with the electrode catalyst layer(s) are comprised of polymer block (A) having ion-conductive groups; and a polymer electrolyte fuel cell wherein the assembly is used. By the invention, a membrane-electrode assembly and a fuel cell are provided which are economical, environment-friendly, good in moldability, and small in interface resistance and excellent in power generation efficiency.
US08263285B2 Membrane-electrode assembly and fuel cell having the same
A membrane-electrode assembly (10) is characterized by including an electrolytic membrane (11) having proton conductivity and a first electrode (12) jointed on the electrolytic membrane. The first electrode has a catalyst (121, 122) and a first ionomer (123) covering the catalyst and acting as a proton exchange group. A ratio of water-generation amount (mol/min) at rated output point of the membrane-electrode assembly/volume (cm3) of the first ionomer in the first electrode is 1350 or larger.
US08263282B2 Fuel cell system and control method thereof
In a power generation unit incorporated in a fuel cell system, a mixture fuel with a certain concentration is supplied to an anode, power is generated by electrochemical reaction between the anode and a cathode exposed to air, and a discharge liquid containing an unreacted mixture fuel is discharged from the anode. The power generation unit is connected to a fuel circulation path for circulating the discharge liquid to the anode. If a mixture fuel is low in pressure, a fuel supply unit supplies fuel to the fuel circulation path. The temperature of the power generation unit is controlled in accordance with the concentration or volume of the mixture fuel supplied to the anode.
US08263277B2 Rehydration of fuel cells
One or more operating parameters, such as electrical current flow from and air flow to, a fuel cell stack within a fuel cell assembly is periodically modulated during rehydration intervals to intermittently increase hydration levels of the fuel cell stack independently of the electrical current demand on the fuel cell assembly from an external load, while maintaining electrical current delivery to that external load.
US08263275B2 Fuel cell system having a control unit for measuring impedance
There is provided a fuel cell system in which a constantly accurate impedance measurement is made possible regardless of a response characteristic of the voltage converting device. A superimposed signal analysis section analyzes an impedance measuring signal after passing through a DC/DC converter to thereby notify a superimposed signal amplitude control section of an analysis result. A superimposed signal amplitude control section controls an amplitude value of the impedance measuring signal generated by a superimposed signal generating section based on the result notified from the superimposed signal analysis section.
US08263271B2 Fuel cell system
A fuel cell system includes a fuel cell stack for generating electricity by a electrochemical reaction of hydrogen and oxygen; a controller for controlling the operation of the system; a hydride storage tank for storing hydride powder as a source of hydrogen for the fuel cell stack; a hydrogen separating chamber for collecting hydrogen gas generated from a reaction of the hydride powder and liquid catalyst; a powder transferring device for transferring the hydride powder to the hydrogen separating chamber; and a residue collector for collecting residues that are generated from the reaction and settled at the bottom of the hydrogen separating chamber.
US08263270B2 Fuel cell vehicle and water discharging method for fuel cell vehicle
A fuel cell vehicle is provided with a fuel cell which generates electric power by a reaction of a reaction gas and discharges water, a tank which accumulates water discharged from the fuel cell, a heater which vaporizes water accumulated in the tank, a discharge valve which switches between accumulating and discharging of the water with respect to the tank, an external air temperature sensor which detects an external air temperature, a vehicle speed sensor which detects a vehicle speed, a selector with which the driver selects an operation of the discharge valve between accumulating and discharging of the water with respect to the tank, and an ECU which controls these components and includes a control section and a control data storage section.
US08263269B2 Lithium secondary battery
The present invention provides a lithium secondary battery which has improved safety, mainly coming from use of an electrolyte solution which is not inflammable at room temperature (20° C.), while not deteriorating output characteristics at low temperatures and room temperature or output maintenance characteristics after storage at high temperature (50° C.). The lithium secondary battery of the present invention, encased in a container, is provided with a cathode and an anode, both capable of storing/releasing lithium ions, a separator which separates these electrodes from each other, and an electrolyte solution containing a cyclic carbonate and a linear carbonate as solvents and a compound such as VC at composition ratios of 18.0 to 30.0%, 74.0 to 81.9% and 0.1 to 1.0%, respectively, based on the whole solvents, all percentages by volume.
US08263268B2 Ester compound, and non-aqueous electrolyte solution and lithium secondary battery each using the ester compound
The present invention includes (1) an ester compound having a specific structure, (2) a nonaqueous electrolytic solution for lithium secondary battery comprising an electrolyte dissolved in a nonaqueous solvent and containing an ester compound having a specific structure in an amount of from 0.01 to 10% by weight of the nonaqueous electrolytic solution, which is excellent in initial battery capacity and cycle property, and (3) a lithium secondary battery comprising a positive electrode, a negative electrode and a nonaqueous electrolytic solution of an electrolyte salt dissolved in a nonaqueous solvent, wherein the nonaqueous electrolytic solution contains an ester compound having a specific structure in an amount of from 0.01 to 10% by weight of the nonaqueous electrolytic solution.
US08263263B2 Nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery
A positive electrode active material is made of sodium containing oxide. The sodium containing oxide contains NaALiBMO2±α that belongs to a space group P63/mmc of a hexagonal system, where the M includes at least one of manganese (Mn) and cobalt (Co). In the NaALiBMO2±α, the composition ratio A of sodium (Na) is not less than 0.5 and not more than 1.1, the composition ratio B of lithium (Li) is larger than 0 and not more than 0.3, and the α is not less than 0 and not more than 0.3.
US08263258B2 Electric storage device
An electric storage device 10 has an electrode laminate unit 12 including positive electrodes 14, negative electrodes 15 and a lithium electrode 16 provided at the outermost part of the electrode laminate unit 12. The lithium electrode 16 has a lithium-electrode current collector 26 welded to a negative-electrode current collector 22 and a lithium unit 27 sandwiched between the lithium-electrode current collector 26 and the negative electrode 15. The lithium unit 27 is composed of a lithium holding plate 27a that is in contact with the lithium-electrode current collector 26, and a lithium ion source 27b that is provided to the lithium holding plate 27a. The lithium ion source 27b is not mounted on the lithium-electrode current collector 26, but only the lithium-electrode current collector 26 is laminated and welded, whereby the damage of the lithium ion source 27b is prevented, and the manufacturing operation is simplified.
US08263248B2 Cell structure for electrochemical devices and method of making same
An electrochemical device comprising alternating layers of positive and negative electrodes separated from each other by separator layers. The electrode layers extend beyond the periphery of the separator layers providing superior contact between the electrodes and battery terminals, eliminating the need for welding the electrode to the terminal. Electrical resistance within the battery is decreased and thermal conductivity of the cell is increased allowing for superior heat removal from the battery and increased efficiency. Increased internal pressure within the battery can be alleviated without damaging or removing the battery from service while keeping the contents of the battery sealed off from the atmosphere by a pressure release system. Nonoperative cells within a battery assembly can also be removed from service by shorting the nonoperative cell thus decreasing battery life.
US08263247B2 Electrochemical cell having quasi-bipolar structure
An electrolyte injection hole is formed in a current collector extension part between negative and positive active material layers of a quasi-bipolar electrode, and another electrolyte injection hole corresponding to the electrolyte injection hole of the quasi-bipolar electrode is formed in a sidewall of a hollow core around which the electrode is wound, so as to easily inject a predetermined amount of electrolyte into each unit cell of an electrode assembly through an electrolyte injection port and the core. Therefore, simple, reliable, and easy-to-manufacture electrochemical cell can be provided.
US08263246B2 Current collector for an electrochemical cell
A current collector for an electrochemical cell includes a member having an outer member and an inner member coupled to the outer member by a plurality of flexible arms configured to allow the inner member to move relative to the outer member.
US08263243B2 Lithium secondary battery
A thermally stabilized Li secondary battery in which at least a portion of the inner surface of a secondary battery case includes an ignition inhibitor so as to prevent an internal temperature of the secondary battery from rising to a predetermined temperature or higher. The Li secondary battery includes: an electrode assembly which includes a first electrode plate, a second electrode plate, and a separator interposed between the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate; a secondary battery case which includes an internal space for accommodating the electrode assembly; and an ignition inhibitor which is formed on at least a portion of the inner surface of the secondary battery case.
US08263241B2 Method for manufacturing secondary battery and method for preparing positive electrode active material for secondary battery
A method for producing a secondary cell according to the present invention includes step (A) of putting a solution having an electrochemically reversibly oxidizable/reducible organic compound and a supporting electrolyte dissolved therein into contact with a positive electrode active material, thereby oxidizing or reducing the positive electrode active material; and step (B) of accommodating the oxidized positive electrode active material and a negative electrode active material in a case in the state of facing each other with a separator being placed therebetween, and filling the case with an electrolyte solution. By oxidizing or reducing the positive electrode active material, lithium ions or anions as the support electrode are incorporated into the positive electrode active material.
US08263240B2 Secondary battery having a gasket with coupling extensions
A secondary battery includes a bare cell having an electrode assembly. The electrode assembly has cathode plates, anode plates and separators insulating the cathode plates from the anode plates. The secondary battery also includes a can housing the electrode assembly, the can having an opening for receiving the electrode assembly and a cap assembly having a cap plate sealing an opening of the can, the cap plate having a terminal through-hole, an electrode terminal inserted into the terminal through-hole, and a gasket insulating the electrode terminal from the terminal through-hole. A protective circuit board is coupled to the bare cell and a molding resin molds the protective circuit board with the bare cell. The gasket includes a coupling extension constraining the molding resin at the cap plate.
US08263239B2 Laminated magnetic thin films for magnetic recording with weak ferromagnetic coupling
A laminated magnetic recording structure for use in perpendicular or longitudinal recording is described. A small amount of ferromagnetic coupling is added between the two magnetic layers that are sufficiently decoupled to switch independently. In one embodiment the coupling is achieved by doping the spacer layer with a ferromagnetic material. Ruthenium (Ru), which is a preferred nonmagnetic material for spacer layers with cobalt (Co) being the preferred magnetic material. The weak ferromagnetic coupling can also be achieved through the use of platinum, palladium and alloys thereof for the spacer layer without the addition of a ferromagnetic element, but alternatively they can also be doped with ferromagnetic elements. For embodiments for perpendicular recording the spacer layer further can additionally comprise oxides of one or more elements selected from the group consisting of Si, Ta, Ti, Nb, Cr, V and B.
US08263233B2 Frame member for use in two-wheeled vehicle and all-terrain vehicle, and method for producing the same
A frame member for use in a two-wheeled vehicle and an all-terrain vehicle that includes a plurality of Al members each made of a 7000 series Al alloy having a high strength is provided in which weld crack sensitivity is reduced and a weld joint having an excellent strength is provided. The alloy composition of the 7000 series Al alloy, which provides the Al member, containing Cu: 0.01 to 0.50%, Mg: 0.5 to 2.1%, and Zn: 4.0 to 8.5%, with the balance being Al and inevitable impurities. Further, in the production of the frame member, the plurality of Al members are integrated by welding using a filler metal containing Mg: 5.5 to 8.0%, Cr: 0.05 to 0.25%, Ti: 0.25% or less, Si: 0.4% or less, Fe: 0.4% or less, Cu: 0.1% or less, Zr: 0.05% or less and Zn: 0.25% or less, and with the balance being Al and inevitable impurities.
US08263231B2 Peel-off coating compositions
Methods and compositions are provided for protecting exterior surfaces of automobiles and other products, or components of products, against abrasion, abrasive dust, water, acid rain, etc. The methods involve applying to a surface a protective coating composition comprising a polyvinyl butyrate emulsion and a relatively inert extender. The emulsion is dried to form a water-resistant protective coating that can be removed from the underlying surface by peeling when no longer desired.
US08263230B2 Ceramic composition, ceramic green sheet, and ceramic electronic component
A ceramic composition is prepared to contain a B2O3—SiO2—Al2O3-MO based glass composition (M: Ca, Mg, Sr and/or Ba, B2O3: 4 to 17.5 weight %, SiO2: 28 to 50 weight %, Al2O3: 0 to 20 weight %, and MO: 36 to 50 weight %): 24 to 40 weight %, SrTiO3 and/or CaTiO3: 46 to 75.4 weight %, CuO: 0.1 to 5.0 weight %, CaO: 0.5 to 7.0 weight %, and MnO, ZnO and/or CoO: 10 weight % or more (however, including 0% by weight). The ceramic composition is subjected to firing to produce a ceramic sintered body, and obtain a composite LC component including the ceramic sintered body. While suppressing the shrinkage behavior during firing, dielectric properties can be improved dramatically as compared with conventional cases, and moreover reliability can be ensured.
US08263228B2 Vehicle glazing
A vehicle glazing comprising two panes of glazing material spaced apart from one another, a self-cleaning coating extending over the outermost surface of the glazing, and having a solar control function. The solar control function may result from the presence of a solar control coating or at least one pane of glazing material being body-tinted. The glazing may be a laminate or a double glazing unit and it may also include a functional layer, such as a liquid crystal film or a layer of light emitting diodes.
US08263221B2 High inherent viscosity polymers and fibers therefrom
Disclosed are processes for preparing polyareneazole polymers characterized as providing polymer solutions having an inherent viscosity of at least about 22 dl/g at 30° C. at a polymer concentration of 0.05 g/dl in methane sulfonic acid. Polyareneazoles, filaments and yarns are also disclosed.
US08263219B2 Optical film, polarizing plate, and image display
Provided is an optical film including a transparent support; and an antiglare layer that comprises a light-transmitting resin and at least two kinds of light-transmitting particles, wherein the antiglare layer has a thickness of from 10 μm to 15 μm, each kind of the at least two kinds of light transmitting particles has an average particle size of from 7 μm to 15 μm, each kind of the at least two kinds of light transmitting particles has a refractive index different from a refractive index of the light-transmitting resin by from 0.001 to 0.050 in absolute value, and a total amount of the at least two kinds of light-transmitting particles are from 15 to 40 mass % based on all solid contents in the antiglare layer.
US08263217B2 Support panel structure
A support panel structure includes at least one panel which extends in longitudinal and cross direction of the support panel structure and essentially forms one integrated structure, which integrated structure is at least partly built up of at least one composite resin laminate building block comprising at least a first and a second face sheet of a fibrous reinforced material with sandwiched in between a sheet of a foamed core material, wherein the first and second face sheet and the sheet of core material are mutually connected by means of fibrous reinforcing material at least part of which extends in height direction of the resin laminate building block, further with the support panel structure including in height direction a multiplicity of composite resin laminate building blocks stacked on top of each other and bonded to each other, at least a first and a second superposed resin laminate building blocks which sandwich between them a layer of a foamed material, the resin laminate building blocks and foamed material being adhered to each other.
US08263215B2 Perforated functional textile structures
The invention provides a functional stretch laminate composite puckered fabric which is robust, laundry-durable and adaptable for securing about any three dimensional body, and a method for forming such puckered fabric. The functional stretch laminate fabric is provided with at least one functional element which can conduct electricity, conduct light, provide electromagnetic fields or provide shielding from electromagnetic fields. In addition, at least one via is provided in the functional stretch laminate allowing the functional element to extend or loop outwardly from the at least one via when the laminate is in a relaxed or unstretched state. Generally, the functional stretch laminate fabric is sufficiently robust for incorporation into garments and for applications in so-called wearable electronics.
US08263214B2 Super absorbent containing web that can act as a filter, absorbent, reactive layer or fuel fuse
The web of the invention can comprise a super absorbent layer that can act as an moisture sensitive fuel shut-off valve, absorbent, adsorbant or reactant. The web of the invention can comprise a super absorbent fabric or layer made of a superabsorbent particle or fiber. The web can comprise a nanofiber layer having dispersed within the nanofiber layer a super absorbent particulate and optionally a second particulate material that can act as an absorbent, adsorbant or reactant. Fluid, gas or liquid, that flows through or by the assemblies of the invention can have any gas, liquid or solid material dispersed or dissolved in the fluid interact with the super absorbent particulate. If needed these materials can also react with, be absorbed by, or adsorbed onto, the active particulate within the nanofiber layer. The structures of the invention can act simply as flow-by reactive, absorptive, or adsorptive layers with no filtration properties, or the structures of the invention can be assembled into filters that can filter particulate from a mobile fluid in a flow-through mode while simultaneously reacting, absorbing, or adsorbing materials from the mobile fluid.
US08263213B2 Painted composite thermoplastic articles
Painted composite articles having good mechanical properties and smooth surface appearance comprising a reinforced thermoplastic polymeric components, a film, and a coating.
US08263210B2 Crosslaminate of oriented films and methods and apparatus for manufacturing same
A crosslaminate is formed from two oriented plies of thermoplastic polymer material, arranged so that their orientation directions cross one another, the plies being heat sealed together. Each ply is semi-fibrillated, that is consist of linear thin regions of biaxially oriented material and thicker linear bosses between the thinner regions. The webs are sealed primarily through bonds formed at the intersection of the bosses (thicker regions). The array of bosses has a division less than 2 mm. The laminate has improved aesthetic and strength properties. A method for forming the crosslaminate involves segmental stretching of the material to form the thinner regions, and apparatus comprising intermeshing grooved stretching rollers having sharp-edged crests is described.
US08263209B2 Packaging corrugated board having peripheral edges oblique to flute direction thereof
A packaging corrugated board having peripheral edges oblique to flute direction thereof is disclosed. A board body of the packaging corrugated board is formed of a first liner board, a second liner board, and a fluted medium sandwiched between the first and the second liner board. The fluted medium is a corrugated board having a plurality of flutes, and a direction in which the flutes extend is defined as a flute direction. The board body defines a plurality of peripheral edges, and most of the peripheral edges are neither parallel nor perpendicular to the flute direction.
US08263202B2 Film based heating device and methods relating thereto
The present disclosure relates to a film heating device, having even heating, for high temperature long term use. The film based heating device of the present disclosure has a base film and at least a first and second laminate. The base film comprises a base film aromatic polyimide and a base film electrically conductive filler. The first laminate and second laminate each have an adhesive layer and a metal foil. The adhesive layers contain a thermoplastic polyimide and electrically conductive filler. The thermoplastic polyimide is derived from at least one aromatic diamine and at least one aromatic dianhydride.
US08263199B2 Polyimide tube, method for production thereof, method for production of polyimide varnish, and fixing belt
A polyimide tube composed of a polyimide resin composition in which 5 to 23.5 volume percent of boron nitride and 1 to 15 volume percent of an acicular substance are dispersed as a filler in a polyimide resin on the basis of the total volume of the composition, a method of producing the tube, a method of producing a polyimide varnish used for producing the tube, and a fixing belt including the tube as a base member are provided.
US08263195B2 Cellulose ester film, optically compensatory film, polarizing plate, and liquid crystal display device
A cellulose ester film is provided and includes a polycondensate obtained from a diol and a dicarboxylic acid, and the polycondensate contains the following (1) and (2). (1) A dicarboxylic acid residue containing an aromatic dicarboxylic acid residue and an aliphatic dicarboxylic acid residue having an average carbon number of 4.0 to 5.0, in which a ratio of the aromatic dicarboxylic acid residue represented by the following equation is from 40% by mole to 95% by mole: The ratio of the aromatic dicarboxylic acid residue=[(the number of moles of the aromatic dicarboxylic acid residue)/((the number of moles of the aromatic dicarboxylic acid residue)+(the number of moles of the aliphatic dicarboxylic acid residues))]×100. (2) An aliphatic diol residue having an average carbon number of 2.0 to 3.0.
US08263193B2 Vacuum treatment method
A vacuum treatment method and a vacuum treatment apparatus are provided in which the SiH2/SiH ratio does not increase even when the deposition rate is increased, thereby deterioration in the film quality is prevented and a high level of productivity can be achieved. A vacuum treatment method comprising the steps of heating a substrate (8) disposed inside a deposition chamber (6) under a reduced pressure atmosphere using a heat spreader (a heating device) (5), and supplying electric power to a discharge electrode (3) disposed in a position facing the substrate (8), thereby conducting a deposition on the substrate (8), wherein the deposition is conducted in a state where the temperature difference between the substrate (8) and the discharge electrode (3) is not more than 30° C. The deposition may also be conducted with the gap between the substrate (8) and the discharge electrode (3) set to not more than 7.5 mm.
US08263192B2 Methods for modifying surfaces
The invention is directed to methods for coating monolayer films of surface-active polymers onto substrates of arbitrary shape, and molecular-based methods and processes to control the chemical and physical nature of surfaces and interfaces. The invention is also directed to methods for modifying a surface of a monolayer comprising a) coating a monolayer on a substrate, wherein the monolayer is formed by self-assembly of end-surfactant molecules, thereby positioning a photoactive functional group at the air-monolayer interface; and b) exposing the monolayer to radiation, wherein each organic group of the monolayer contains a first functionality that is not converted to a second functionality upon exposure to acid.
US08263190B2 Method of producing magnetic recording medium, and magnetic recording and reading device
The present invention aims to provide a method of producing a magnetic recording medium which is a method of producing a magnetic recording medium having a magnetically-separated magnetic recording pattern, the method including: forming a magnetic layer on a non-magnetic substrate; then exposing a surface of the magnetic layer partially to reactive plasma, or a reactive ion generated in the plasma to amorphize the portion of the magnetic layer.
US08263184B2 Process for the production of an underlay for roofs
A method is provided for the production of an active-breathing composite in the form of a web, consisting of a nonwoven made of synthetic material and a layer fully or mainly consisting of polyurethane for utilization as counter ceiling webs for roofs and as facade webs. PU or a mixture of materials with a high fraction of PU is heated to melting temperature and extruded on a nonwoven made of PP in order to form a diffusion-open coating of the PP nonwoven and then pressing the PP nonwoven in order to form an active-breathing composite.
US08263183B2 Cleaning device
This invention relates to a cleaning device comprising a cleaning composition and a substrate. The cleaning composition comprises an absorbent particulate, a binding agent, and optionally, a thickening agent. The cleaning composition may be applied to a substrate, such as a textile substrate, by applying the composition to at least one portion of the surface of the substrate or by incorporating the composition throughout the substrate. The absorbent particulate generally exhibits a high affinity for particles, color, grease, oil, and other staining materials and is a soft material which allows for gentle cleaning of most surfaces without detrimentally abrading and scratching soiled surfaces. The absorbent particulate also serves as an indicator providing a visual cue of its cleaning efficacy and may be used in either a wet or dry state.
US08263181B2 Ti-based film forming method and storage medium
A Ti-based film forming method includes a step (step 1) of cleaning inside a chamber by introducing a cleaning gas containing fluorine into the chamber in a state where a wafer W is not provided on a susceptor; a step (step 2) of heating the susceptor in a state where the wafer W is not provided on the susceptor, injecting a processing gas containing Ti from a shower head into the chamber, and forming a pre-coated film at least on the surface of the shower head; and a step (step 3) of mounting the wafer W on the susceptor 2 in a state where the susceptor is heated, supplying a processing gas into the chamber 1 and forming a Ti-based film on the wafer W. The pre-coated film forming step is performed at a temperature lower than that in the film forming step.
US08263180B2 One-dimensional metal nanostructures
Tin powder is heated in a flowing stream of an inert gas, such as argon, containing a small concentration of carbon-containing gas, at a temperature to produce metal vapor. The tin deposits as liquid on a substrate, and reacts with the carbon-containing gas to form carbon nanotubes in the liquid tin. Upon cooling and solidification, a composite of tin nanowires bearing coatings of carbon nanotubes is formed.
US08263176B2 Method for fabricating a photovoltaic element with stabilised efficiency
A method for fabricating a photovoltaic element with stabilized efficiency is proposed. The method comprises the following steps: preparing a boron-doped, oxygen-containing silicon substrate; forming an emitter layer on a surface of the silicon substrate; and a stabilization treatment step. The stabilization treatment step comprises keeping the temperature of the substrate during a treatment time within a selectable temperature range having a lower temperature limit of 50° C., preferably 90° C., more preferably 130° C. and even more preferably 160° C. and an upper temperature limit of 230° C., preferably 210° C., more preferably 190° C. and even more preferably 180° C., and generating excess minority carriers in the silicon substrate during the treatment time, for example, by illuminating the substrate or by applying an external voltage. This method can be used to fabricate a photovoltaic element, e.g. a solar cell or a solar module having an efficiency which is stable at a value higher than that of photovoltaic elements fabricated without the stabilization treatment step.
US08263173B2 Liquid crystal display panel, color filter and manufacturing method thereof
A manufacturing method of a color filter including following steps is provided. First, a partition is formed on a substrate to form a plurality of pixel regions on the substrate. Next, a color pigment is provided along a continuous pigment-providing route, so as to form the color pigment on a sequence of pixel regions among the plurality of pixel regions and the partition. The method mentioned above can prevent the unfilled phenomenon of the pigment around the corners of the pixel region. Besides, a liquid crystal display panel having the color filter is also provided.
US08263162B2 Natural sweetener and methods of manufacturing thereof
A method of preparing a natural sweetener from a heat-processed powdered fruit extract of the cucurbitaceae family, such as luo han guo is provided. In one embodiment, the method provides a cleaner tasting and concentrated natural sweetener in which objectionable flavors, odors, colors, and insoluble components are removed to form the natural sweetener.
US08263156B2 Food supplement based on biologicallycopene and process to obtain biological lycopene
Innovative food supplement based on biological lycopene, which is the bulk product, i.e. the total extract, obtained by treating with supercritical carbon dioxide a suitable extraction matrix, made by 50% biological tomato berries and 50% biological dry fruits (almonds, nuts and the like) and/or other components, following a co-extractive technology. Tomato berries are conveniently de-hydrated, milled and riddled; the co-extraction matrix (dry fruits, vegetables, others) is conveniently de-hydrated and milled. The obtained total extract is directly used for preparing lycopene based food supplements, without any modification or additivation. With respect to the known commercial food supplement, based on lycopene, such biological lycopene has unique quality features: the total extract is 100% natural; absence of chemical solvents; lycopene concentration in the final natural formula (not artificial); absence dosing problems and contra-indications. In the final product, lycopene is mixed with other natural anti-oxidants, co-extracted from the used vegetables. The boxing up of the bulk product (total extract) is made in soft or hard caps in several shapes and colors or in tablets or in other way (e.g. liquid, others).
US08263149B2 Container-packed milk coffee beverage
Disclosed is a container-packed milk coffee beverage which has an excellent hypertension ameliorating effect and can be ingested in an ordinary manner. A container-packed milk coffee which has a pH falling within the range from 5 to 7 and satisfies the following requirements (A) to (C): (A) a chlorogenic acid: 0.01 to 1% by mass; (B) hydroxyhydroquinone: 0.08% by mass or less relative to the mass of the chlorogenic acid; and (C) the chlorogenic acid/a coffee solid content≧0.03 (by mass).
US08263147B2 Infant formulas containing docosahexaenoic acid and lutein
Disclosed is a method of reducing the risk or severity of retinopathy of prematurity in preterm infants. The method comprises (a) measuring skin carotenoid levels in preterm infants, preferably by Raman Spectroscopy, and then (b) administering supplemental carotenoids to those infants in need thereof, wherein the supplemental carotenoids comprise lutein, lycopene, beta-carotene, and zeaxanthin. The supplemental carotenoids may be provided by an infant formula comprising, on a ready-to-feed basis, from about 100 to about 2000 mcg/liter of total carotenoids, wherein the total carotenoids include at least about 50 mcg/liter of lutein. The formulas may further comprise docosahexaenoic acid.
US08263145B2 Enzyme preparation and process for producing food using the same
The present invention provides an enzyme preparation containing, as the active ingredient, an acidic or alkaline substance capable of shifting the pH value of the preparation toward a pH range wherein the expression of activity of a transglutaminase is inhibited when the transglutaminase is dissolved in the presence of collagen in a solution. The present invention also provides a process for producing a food by using the aforementioned enzyme preparation.
US08263144B2 Cheese flavor composition and process for making same
The present invention provides a cheese flavor composition and a process for preparing a cheese flavor composition comprising the steps of (a) contacting a protein containing dairy product with a lactic acid culture to form a reaction mixture at a temperature of about 25 to about 45° C. for about 8 to about 72 hours to provide peptides and free amino acids and, (b) contacting the peptides and free amino acids within the reaction mixture with amino acid oxidase to deaminated the peptides and free amino acids to provide α-keto acids, wherein the α-keto acids are further metabolized within the reaction mixture to provide flavor compounds. The present invention also provides a food product comprising the cheese flavor composition.
US08263137B2 Nutritional supplement for women
A nutritional supplement comprising a variety of vitamins and minerals is described. A nutritional supplement comprising between about 1 mg and about 5 mg of vitamin B1, between about 2 mg and about 8 mg of vitamin B2, between about 7 mg and about 30 mg of vitamin B6, between about 10 mcg and about 40 mcg of vitamin B12, between about 1 mg and about 4 mg of folic acid, between about 250 IU and about 900 IU of vitamin D3, between about 100 mg and about 400 mg of vitamin C, between about 20 IU and about 90 IUs of vitamin E, between about 0.5 mg and about 4 mg of copper, between about 20 mg and about 80 mg of zinc, between about 10 mg and about 70 mg of iron, and between about 100 mg and about 800 mg of omega-3 fatty acids is disclosed.
US08263135B2 Process for isolating biomaterial from tissue and an isolated biomaterial extract prepared therefrom
A process for isolating a biomaterial extract from tissue is disclosed. The process comprises the step of contacting the tissue with an extracting solution so as to extract a biomaterial into solution. A solution containing the biomaterial extract is separated before being freeze-dried at a rate sufficient to enable the biomaterial to be isolated. The examples relate to the extraction of collagen from skin or hide using an acetic acid solution as the solvent.
US08263134B2 Avian-based insect repellent
The invention provides an insect repellent that repels flies, gnats, mosquitoes, lice, ticks, and fleas. The insect repellent comprises an avian-based extract, in particular an extract isolated from birds of the order Psittaciformes (parrots). The invention also provides an insect repellent composition about 5 volume % to about 75 volume % of the avian-based extract and about 95 volume % to about 25 volume % of a carrier vehicle.
US08263133B2 Multivalent clustering targeting strategy for drug carriers
The present invention provides clustered ligand vehicles for the delivery of a nucleic acid therapeutic agent to a target expressing a receptor. The invention further provides methods for treating a disease state by targeting a nucleic acid therapeutic agent to a target expressing a receptor using clustered ligand vehicles.
US08263132B2 Methods for preparing pharmaceuticals by emulsion aggregation processes
A method for making a pharmaceutical by emulsion aggregation, the method including emulsifying a first pharmaceutical agent and a biodegradable resin to form a primary emulsion of pre-aggregated particles in a slurry; aggregating the pre-aggregated particles to form aggregated pharmaceutical particles in the slurry; and isolating the pharmaceutical particles. The method may be used to make time-released, multi-formulation, and inhalable pharmaceuticals.
US08263130B2 Hollow sphere from amphiphilic chitosan derivatives and method of preparing amiphiphilic chitosan derivative complex for medical use
A hollow sphere from amphiphilic chitosan derivatives and a method of preparing an amphiphilic chitosan derivative complex for medical use are disclosed, and the hollow sphere from amphiphilic chitosan derivatives comprises: chitosan derivatives represented by the following formula (I), which self-assemble and form a hollow sphere in a solvent; wherein, each R1 is independently hydrogen, C1˜C4 alkyl, C1˜C6 carboxyl, sulfate group, or phosphate group, each R2 is independently hydrogen, C1˜C12 alkyl, C1˜C6 carboxyl, or C2˜C12 acyl group, and m is an integer of 100-2000.
US08263125B2 Dosage form for high dose-high solubility active ingredients that provides for immediate release and modified release of the active ingredients
A dosage form comprising of a high dose, high solubility active ingredient as modified release and a low dose active ingredient as immediate release where the weight ratio of immediate release active ingredient and modified release active ingredient is from 1:10 to 1:15000 and the weight of modified release active ingredient per unit is from 500 mg to 1500 mg; a process for preparing the dosage form.
US08263123B2 Rapidly disintegrating tablet containing polyvinyl alcohol
The present invention provides a quickly disintegrating tablet which has quick disintegrability and solubility in an oral cavity, and does not have uncomfortable tastes such as bitterness, has a small variation of a tablet physical property even in storage under a humidifying condition, and has substantially no change in a medicine content in the tablet and tablet appearance and which is superior in stability; and a manufacturing method of the tablet. That is, it provides: a quickly disintegrating tablet which is prepared by blending a medicine with a saccharide and polyvinyl alcohol, which has small variations of tablet weight, tablet hardness, tablet diameter and tablet thickness, and which is superior in medicine stability in the tablet; and a manufacturing method of the tablet.
US08263117B2 C70-containing liposome, method for producing the same, and use of the same
A solution containing a C70 cyclodextrin complex and a solution containing a lipid that is capable of forming a liposome are mixed together at a temperature in a range of 10° C. to 45° C. This produces a C70-incorporated liposome which keeps a physical property that the C70 fullerene originally has, and is stably solubilized in a polar solvent. Hence, the present invention provides a C70-incorporated liposome which keeps a physical property that the C70 fullerene originally has, and which is stably solubilized in a polar solvent, a production method of the same, and a use of the same.
US08263116B2 Methods for producing silver-bonded antimicrobial moist wound dressings and moist wound dressings produced by the methods
A method for producing a silver-bonded antimicrobial moist wound dressing. A silver-containing compound is added to a 0.1-30% aqueous solution of an alkaline solvent to dissociate silver ions from the silver-containing compound, dissolving CMC in water or an organic solvent to obtain a CMC solution, the silver ion-containing solution is mixed with the CMC solution so that the hydrogen ions (H+) of the hydroxyl groups of the CMC are replaced by the silver ions to prepare a silver-CMC compound, the silver-CMC compound is dispersed and absorbed in a medium, and the medium is dried.
US08263115B2 Method and a product to reduce and treat problems associated with tinea pedis
A ring-shaped toe-patch is provided for treatment and prevention of tinea pedis, commonly known as athlete's foot. The toe-patches are made of rubber-foam, attached to a hydrophobic material for elimination of fungus like T. rubrum. The toe-patch has cuts extending into the patch from the central circle in the toe-patch. Due to its perfect fit the toe-patch comes close to the affected area making it possible for a hydrophobic material attached to foam to effectively bind the fungi. Simultaneously with the elimination of the fungi the toe-patch works as a toe separator creating space between the toes.
US08263112B2 In vivo use of water absorbent polymers
The subject invention is a method and material for removing fluid from the intestinal tract of a host and may be useful in treating animals or human patients suffering from fluid overload states. In one embodiment, the subject method involves ingesting an enterically coated non-systemic, non-toxic, non-digestible, water absorbing polymer which absorbs fluid while passing through the intestinal tract. The polymer is excreted in the feces wherein the polymer and absorbed fluid is removed from the body. Preferred polymers include super absorbent acrylic acid polymers, preferably provided in bead form. The polymers may include functional groups for selectively removing blood borne waste products, e.g. urea, from the G.I. tract.
US08263110B2 Sustained release intraocular implants and related methods
Biocompatible intraocular implants include a steroid and a polymer associated with each other to facilitate release of the steroid into an eye for a period of time greater than about two months. The steroid may be associated with a biodegradable polymer matrix, such as a matrix of a two biodegradable polymers. Or, the steroid may be associated with a polymeric coating having one or more openings effective to permit the steroid to be released into an external environment. The implants may be placed in an eye to treat one or more ocular conditions. The steroid is released from the implant for more than about two months, and may be release for more than several years.
US08263107B2 Functionalized chemically inert polymers for coatings
Provided herein are methods for functionalizing a polymer for forming a coating and coatings and devices formed thereof or for functionalizing a coating or device surface including an polymer.
US08263106B2 Gold-coated stent, oligonucleotide bound gold-coated stent, and process for producing the same
The present invention relates to a gold-plated stent and its preparation method. More specifically, it relates to a gold-plated stent that is coated with various chemical materials such as 2-aminoalkanethiol, epihalogenhydrin, and diamine compounds in a sequence and also oligonucleotide gold-plated stent, which is prepared by binding oligonucleotide, a biomaterial, to the gold-plated stent coated with said chemicals. The oligonucleotide gold-plated stent of the present invention has an advantages of raising the local concentration in injured parts and minimizing the toxicity overall the body, so it can be used for prevention of restenosis after angioplasty.
US08263104B2 Polymer nanofilm coatings
Disclosed herein are nanofilm coatings for implantable medical devices comprising a diblock or triblock copolymer (PEO-PMMA or PMOXA-PDMS-PMOXA, respectively). Such nanofilms, may be used, for example, as amphiphilic supports for therapeutic agents. These materials are conducive towards the formation of active substrates for a suite of biological and medical applications.
US08263103B2 Medical articles containing biodegradable polymers and acid-neutralizing cationic species
According to an aspect of the present invention, medical articles are provided, which are at least partially biodegradable. The medical articles comprise (a) biodegradable polymers that produce acidic molecules upon degradation; and (b) acid neutralizing cationic species.
US08263099B2 Insect growth regulating composition
A microencapsulated insect growth regulating composition comprising an insect growth regulation active ingredient in a wall formed of polyurethane or polyurea, having an average particle diameter of 1 to 40 μm, a wall thickness of 0.005 to 0.5 μm, a ratio of a wall thickness/an average particle diameter of 0.0003 to 0.003, and a volume ratio of microencapsulated particles having a particle diameter of not less than 50 μm of not more than 20% by volume based on a total volume of microencapsulated particles sufficiently exerts efficacy of the active ingredient, i.e., the insect growth regulation activity.
US08263092B1 Alphavirus replicon particles as immunological adjuvants
The immune response to an antigen of interest, either in purified form or expressed via an alphavirus replicon particle, can be enhanced by the simultaneous administration of an alphavirus replicon particle which expresses interleukin-12. This allows for the use of significantly smaller quantities of the antigen and this immunization strategy can also eliminate the need for boosting administration of the antigen or it can reduce the number of boosts required for an effective immune response to the antigen.
US08263091B2 Method of treating and preventing infections in immunocompromised subjects with immunostimulatory CpG oligonucleotides
A method is disclosed herein for increasing an immune response to an opportunistic infection in an immunocompromised subject. In one embodiment, the subject is infected with a lentivirus. The method includes increasing an immune response to a pathogen using D oligodeoxynucleotides including a CpG motif.
US08263088B2 Clostridial toxin NetB
The present invention relates to a polypeptide based toxin that originates from Clostridium perfringens. The invention further relates to immunogenic compositions comprising the toxin and methods to vaccinate animals, for example chickens, such that they are less susceptible to clostridial diseases. Methods to determine whether an animal has been exposed to the toxin, polynucleotides encoding the toxin and attenuated bacteria that express a reduced or less active form of the toxin are also disclosed.
US08263084B2 Pharmaceutical composition for treating obesity-related disease comprising insulinotropic peptide conjugate
The present invention relates to a composition for treating obesity-related diseases comprising an insulinotropic peptide conjugate, more particularly, to a composition for treating obesity-related diseases comprising a conjugate prepared by covalently linking the insulinotropic peptide with a carrier substance via a non-peptidyl linker, and a method for treating obesity-related diseases by using the same. In particular, the composition for treating obesity-related diseases according to the present invention remarkably improves the efficacy of suppressing food intake and its duration to reduce body weight and body fat, thereby being useful for the treatment of obesity-related diseases.
US08263083B2 Combination therapy with antibody-drug conjugates
Methods for the treatment of Hodgkin's lymphoma comprising administering both a chemotherapeutic regimen and an antibody-drug conjugate compound to a subject in need thereof are provided.
US08263082B2 Chemically programmable immunity
Methods and compositions for immediately immunizing an individual against any molecule or compound. The present invention comprises an immunity linker with at least two sites; (1) at least one first binding site that binds to an immune response component in an individual that has been pre-immunized with a universal immunogen, and (2) at least one second binding site that binds specifically to a desired compound or molecule, the target.
US08263078B2 Antibodies against flagellin and uses thereof
The present invention provides a novel class of monoclonal antibodies which have a high affinity, broad spectrum neutralizing reactivity to flagellin from various Gram-negative bacteria including, but not limited to, E. coli, Salmonella, Serratia, Proteus, Enterobacter, Citrobacter, Campylobacter and Pseudomonas. The present invention further provides methods of treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and methods of treating enterobacterial infections using anti-flagellin antibodies in humans, other animals and birds.
US08263069B2 Compositions including anthocyanin or anthocyanidin for the prevention or treatment of articular cartilage-associated conditions
Methods of treating an arthritic joint of a subject, including administering a pharmaceutical composition by injection into the arthritic joint, wherein the composition includes an anthocyanin or anthocyanidin, glucose, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
US08263068B2 Modified cells expressing a protein that modulates activity of bHLH proteins, and uses thereof
The present invention relates to modified cells carrying a heterologous gene sequence encoding a protein, such as an Inhibitor of differentiation (Id) gene sequence that binds a basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) protein to inhibit cell growth, differentiation and/or tumorigenesis of the modified cells. The modified cells are differentiated, proliferate and do not become tumorigenic when grafted into a recipient subject. Additionally, the modified cells produce a factor or factors that enhance the viability of co-grafted organs, tissues or cells. Thus, the modified cells are useful for testing agents for effects on the cells, for co-grafting with transplant organs, tissues or cells. The modified cells are also useful for enhancing the viability of thawing cells that have been cryo-preserved. In one embodiment, the modified cells are modified Sertoli cells.
US08263051B2 Photostabilization of resveratrol with alkoxycrylene compounds
The photostabilizing electronic excited state energy—particularly singlet state energy from resveratrol compounds—has been found to be readily transferred to (accepted by) α-cyanodiphenylacrylate compounds having an alkoxy radical in the four (para) position (hereinafter “alkoxycrylenes”) on one of the phenyl rings having the formula (I): wherein one of R1 and R2 is a straight or branched chain C1-C30 alkoxy radical, preferably C1-C8, more preferably methoxy, and the non-alkoxy radical R1 or R2 is hydrogen; and R3 is a straight or branched chain C1-C30 alkyl radical, preferably C2-C20. The alkoxycrylene compounds of formula (I) significantly increase the photostability of resveratrol compounds in a composition by at least 3-fold and as much as 10-fold or greater. The ability of the alkoxycrylene compounds to stabilize the resveratrol compound is concentration dependent, with the amount of resveratrol photostabilization increasing with the concentration of the alkoxycrylene compound.
US08263050B2 Method of quenching electronic excitation of chromophore-containing organic molecules in photoactive compositions
The photostabilizing electronic excited state energy—particularly singlet state energy from a UV-absorbing molecule has been found to be readily transferred to (accepted by) α-cyanodiphenylacrylate compounds of formulas (I) and (V) having an alkoxy radical preferably in the four (para) position (hereinafter methoxycrylenes) on one or both of the phenyl rings: wherein at least one of R1 and R2 is a straight or branched chain C1-C12 alkoxy radical, preferably C1-C8, more preferably C1-C4, and most preferably methoxy, and any non-alkoxy radical R1 or R2 is hydrogen; and R3 is a straight or branched chain C1-C24 alkyl radical, preferably C12-C24, more preferably C20; wherein A and B are the same or different and are selected from the group consisting of oxygen, amino and sulfur; R1 and R3 are the same or different and are selected from the group consisting of C1-C30 alkyl, C2-C30 alkylene, C2-C30 alkyne, C3-C8 cycloalkyl, C1-C30 substituted alkylene, C2-C30 substituted alkyne, aryl, substituted aryl, heteroaryl, heterocycloalkyl, substituted heteroaryl and substituted heterocycloalkyl; R2 is selected from the group consisting of C1-C30 alkyl, C2-C30 alkylene, C2-C30 alkyne, C3-C8 cycloalkyl, C1-C30 substituted alkyl, C3-C8 substituted cycloalkyl, C1-C30 substituted alkylene, C2-C30 substituted alkyne; R4, R5, R6 and R7 are the same or different and are selected from the group consisting of C1-C30 alkoxy straight chin on branched and a, b, c and d are each either 0 or 1, and a, b, c and d add up to 1, 2, 3, or 4.
US08263049B2 Mono-, di- and polyol alkoxylate phosphate esters in oral care formulations and methods for using same
This invention relates to a composition useful as an oral care composition comprising an organophosphate material, additional oral care composition ingredients, for example, a surfactant agent, and optionally an abrasive agent.
US08263048B2 Calcium phosphate complex for oral care applications, its preparation method, and compositions containing the same
The invention is directed to a calcium phosphate complex and the composition containing the same for oral care applications, in which the calcium phosphate complex is formed by chelating the γ-polyglutamic acid (γ-PGA) with amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP). This complex can prevent crystallization of ACP and maintain its high solubility. The calcium phosphate complex has superior mucoadhesion properties, allowing it to remain in the mouth longer and offering effective buffering, by which dental caries can be alleviated and prevented.
US08263044B2 Stilbene like compounds as novel HDAC inhibitors
The present invention relates to novel stilbene like compounds of the general formula (I), their derivatives, analogs, tautomeric forms, stereoisomers, polymorphs, hydrates, solvates, pharmaceutically acceptable salts and compositions, metabolites and prodrugs thereof. The present invention more particularly provides novel stilbene like compounds of the general formula (I). Also included is a method for treatment of cancer, psoriasis, proliferative conditions and conditions mediated by HDAC, in a mammal comprising administering an effective amount of a novel compound of formula (I) as described above.
US08263043B2 Cellular labeling and quantification for nuclear magnetic resonance techniques
The disclosure provides, in part, a method for quantifying cell numbers in vivo. The disclosure comprises a method of quantifying labeled cells by nuclear magnetic resonance techniques and a computer method for the same.
US08263041B2 Antigen associated with the neovasculature of tumour metastases
The invention relates to a binding member that binds the Extra Domain-A (ED-A) isoform of fibronectin for the treatment of tumor metastases.
US08263037B2 Spherical carbon nanostructure and method for producing spherical carbon nanostructures
A method for producing carbon nanostructures according to the invention includes injecting acetylene gas into a reactant liquid. The injected acetylene molecules are then maintained in contact with the reactant liquid for a period of time sufficient to break the carbon-hydrogen bonds in at least some of the acetylene molecules, and place the liberated carbon ions in an excited state. The liberated carbon ions in the excited state then traverse a surface of the reactant liquid and enter a collection area where carbon ions combine to produce carbon nanostructures.
US08263036B2 Method for manufacturing nitric acid
The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing nitric acid wherein a gaseous mixture, including air and ammonia, is transported on a catalyst including platinum to carry out catalytic oxidation of the ammonia, and is characterized in that a sulfurated component is added to the gaseous mixture.
US08263035B2 Forming nanoparticles in basic amino acid sols
In general, in one aspect, the invention features a method that includes preparing a mixture comprising water, a basic amino acid, and a metal oxide precursor under conditions which result in the formation of metal oxide nanoparticles from the metal oxide precursor.
US08263034B2 Nitrogen-rich waste water treatment method and method for producing struvite
The present invention relates to an efficient method of removing nitrogen and producing struvite from nitrogen-rich wastewater. Additionally, the present invention provides an economical method of removing nitrogen while producing a large quantity of struvite from nitrogen-rich wastewater with an appropriate usage of a solution containing phosphorus ion and a solution containing magnesium ion and/or calcium ion.
US08263033B2 Palladium-contaning oxidation catalyst
According to one aspect of the present invention, a palladium-containing oxidation catalyst is provided. In one embodiment, the palladium-containing oxidation catalyst includes a first zone having a first PGM catalyst loading with a platinum (Pt) to palladium (Pd) weight ratio of no greater than 10.0; and a second zone disposed next to the first zone. In another embodiment, the second PGM catalyst loading has a palladium (Pd) to platinum (Pt) weight ratio of no greater than 4.0.
US08263029B2 Method for preparing anisotropic particles and devices thereof
The invention provides a simple and cost-effective method for preparing particles such as anisotropic semiconductor nanoparticles (e.g. CdS) and devices thereof. The method comprises (i) dispersing at least part of particle-forming reactants in a self-organized medium such as surfactant-aqueous solution system, and (ii) conducting a particle-forming reaction using the particle-forming reactants dispersed in the self-organized medium under shear condition to form the particles. The anisotropic property of the particles is controlled at least partially by the shear condition. The invention may be used to prepare quantum dots in a liquid crystal, and various devices such as nonlinear optics, optoelectronic devices, and solar cells, among others.
US08263026B2 System and method for the production of natural gas utilizing a laser
A system and method for producing a fuel gas is provided. In particular, a combustion product of an internal combustion engine is converted by a catalytic converter heated by the beam of the laser to a subject component of a fuel gas. Other gases can be formed simultaneously in other catalytic converters heated by the laser beam. The resulting converted gases can be used to produce a fuel gas which can be stored and/or used to further fuel the internal combustion engine.
US08263021B2 Rotating mechanism for solid-solid direct-heating reaction disc
The present invention discloses a rotating mechanism for rotationally driving a solid-solid direct-heating reaction disc, comprising a fixed hollow shaft, a rotating sleeve assembly and a signal commutator, wherein the fixed hollow shaft is fixed, the rotating sleeve assembly rotatably surrounds the fixed hollow shaft, the reaction disc is supported by the rotating sleeve assembly so as to rotate along with the rotating sleeve assembly, and the signal commutator has a stationary end fixed to the fixed hollow shaft and a moving end co-rotating with the rotating sleeve assembly. By the rotating mechanism, the signal commutator is hold, and signal input and output between the moving end and the stationary end can be achieved.
US08263020B2 Analytical test element and process for its production
An analytical test element is provided having a surface comprising a chemical detection layer on which a spreading net is disposed, the spreading net being configured to provide for the planar distribution of a liquid sample on the detection layer. The spreading net generally comprises a filament structure coated with a metallic layer that is oxidized at least on one or more surface portions thereof facing the detection layer.
US08263016B2 Additive effect enhanced hydrogen peroxide disinfection method and apparatus
A method which enhances a disinfection process by obtaining an additive effect from energy and byproducts of the decomposition process. Also disclosed are contact lens disinfecting systems, wherein the systems are configured to create the desirable elevated pressure, oxygen saturation and sustained peroxide concentration conditions within a contact lens holding and reaction chamber, in order to enhance disinfection by additive effect. The systems are configured to provide that an elevated pressure is maintained in the reaction chamber before venting occurs.
US08263015B2 Aseptic packaging installation with aseptic buffer zones
The aseptic packaging installation comprises a bench under a ceiling, a line of machines mounted on the bench in a packaging zone subjected to a sterile laminar flow traveling vertically from the ceiling at a rate adapted to establish a first pressure in the packaging zone that is higher than a surrounding pressure, an intervention zone adjacent to the packaging zone, and subjected to a one-way flow of clean air travelling vertically from the ceiling of the intervention zone at a rate that is adapted to establish a second pressure in the intervention zone that is lower than the first pressure but higher than the surrounding pressure.
US08263009B2 Exhaust gas purifying catalyst
An exhaust gas purifying catalyst which is disposed in an exhaust pipe of an internal combustion engine, includes: a substrate; and a catalyst layer, supported in the substrate and including: noble metals including platinum (Pt) and palladium (Pd); a heat-resistant inorganic oxide; and a NOx trapping material. The exhaust gas purifying catalyst adsorbs NOx in an exhaust gas when an exhaust air-fuel ratio is in a lean state and desorbs and reduces the adsorbed NOx when the exhaust air-fuel ratio is in a stoichiometric state or a rich state. (Pt/Pd) which is a ratio of amount of the platinum (Pt) to amount of the palladium (Pd) is 0.7 or more and less than 1.0.
US08263007B2 Slurry bed loop reactor and use thereof
The present invention relates to a slurry bed loop reactor comprising a riser and at least one downcomer (3), wherein two ends of the riser are connected to two ends of the downcomer (3) via lines (16) and (7), respectively. The riser comprises a reaction section (1) and a settling section (2) with an increased tube diameter disposed on the reaction section (1). A gas outlet (13) exists at the top of the settling section (2). Each of the downcomers (3) is divided into a filtrate section (5) and a slurry section (6) by filter medium (4), wherein the filtrate section (5) is connected to a liquid outlet (10); two ends of the slurry section (6) are respectively connected to two ends of the riser, and the filtrate region (5) may further be connected to a back purging system. When used in a gas-liquid-solid three phases reaction system, the reactor can realize successive separation of gas, liquid and solid particles in slurry, and realize the back purging regeneration of filter tubes without influencing the reaction processes. In addition, said reactor has the advantages of high separation efficiency, simple structure, flexible and easy operation.
US08263005B2 Methods and systems for modulating acoustic energy delivery
The present invention provides systems, methods, and devices for using acoustic energy.
US08263004B2 Method and apparatus for deactivating antigenic substance through positive and negative ions functions
The present invention relates to a method of deactivating an antigenic substance by causing positive and negative ions to act on the antigenic substance, and the positive and negative ions are caused to act in an atmosphere in which each of positive ion concentration and negative ion concentration is at least about 50,000/cm3, and more preferably, at least about 100,000/cm3.
US08263003B2 Device for transporting and/or storing radioactive materials and for the controlled release of oxygen in an enclosed housing
The invention relates to a device (1) for transporting and/or storing radioactive materials (10), comprising a closed enclosure (8) and a system (12, 16) for securing said closed enclosure, said system comprising catalytic means (12) for recombining hydrogen and oxygen into water, placed in said closed enclosure. According to the invention, the system for securing said closed enclosure further comprises a device (16) for the controlled release of oxygen in said closed enclosure (8).
US08263002B1 Fabrication of ZnO nanorod-based hydrogen gas nanosensor
The nanofabrication of a hydrogen gas nanosensor device from single straight and branched, tripod shaped ZnO nanorods using in-situ lift-out technique, performed in the chamber of a focused ion beam (FIB) system is disclosed. Self-assembled ZnO branched nanorods have been grown by a cost-effective and fast synthesis route using an aqueous solution deposition method and rapid thermal processing. The properties of the ZnO nanorod structures were analyzed by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersion X-ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and micro-Raman spectroscopy. High quality ZnO nanorods were obtained with a 90% success rate for building nanodevices. The fabricated nanosensor can gauge 150 ppm hydrogen gas in the air at room temperature. The nanosensor has selectivity for other gases such as oxygen, methane, carbon monoxide and liquid propane gas. The ZnO nanorod sensors of the present invention also operate at low power of less than 5 microwatts.
US08263000B2 Apparatus and method for measuring concentrations of fuel mixtures using depth-resolved laser-induced fluorescence
The apparatus for measuring concentrations of fuel mixtures using depth-resolved laser-induced fluorescence is a fluorometer equipped with a sample container holder that is movable in the path of the beam from the light source. Fluorescent emissions from the sample mixture pass at 90° to the excitation light path through a slit that is narrow enough that the emission intensity is effectively produced by a thin layer of the sample and focused on a monochromator, with successive thin layers receiving nonuniform excitation radiation due to reduction of intensity along the excitation light source path with increasing depth penetration and due to reabsorption of emitted fluorescence from adjacent layers. The method has a first mode in which the emission spectrum is scanned at a fixed depth, and a second mode in which the sample is moved relative to the emission monochromator slit to vary the depth while keeping the emission wavelength fixed.
US08262998B2 Detection methods and detection devices based on the quantum confinement effects
The invention describes a detection device that comprise nanostructures and which detection mechanism is based on the quantum confinement effects. The analyte species are sensed by measuring charge or/and energy transfer between the species and the nanostructures, which will be proportional to the overlap between the density of states distribution in the nanostructures and the density of states distribution in the targeted analyte species.
US08262997B2 Micro-volumetric blood radioactivity counter
A blood counting device comprises a capillary conduit for drawing from a subject in which a radiotracer has previously been injected a quantity of blood in the micro-liter range to produce in the capillary conduit a flow of blood from which beta radiation is emitted. At least one direct beta radiation detector is placed closely adjacent to the capillary conduit. The direct beta radiation detector consists of a semiconductor photodiode which detects the beta radiation from the flow of blood when directly hit by this beta radiation.
US08262992B2 Modular sensor cassette
The invention concerns a sensor cassette that can be inserted into an analyzer comprising a continuous measuring channel for receiving fluidic media and sensory elements for determining chemical and/or physical parameters of the fluidic media. According to the invention the sensor cassette consists of at least two permanently connected but separately manufactured modules which each have a housing and a measuring channel section wherein the measuring channel sections of adjacent modules are connected to the continuous measuring channel by a fluidic coupling and wherein at least one of the connected modules is designed as a sensor module and has a sensor array comprising at least two sensory elements. Furthermore, a memory element is allocated to the sensor cassette on which specific information for the sensor cassette in particular with regard to its construction from the respective modules is stored.
US08262990B2 Flow cytometer system with unclogging feature
The fluidic system with an unclogging feature of the preferred embodiment includes a flow channel, a sheath pump to pump sheath fluid from a sheath container into an interrogation zone, and a waste pump to pump waste fluid from the interrogation zone into a waste container. The sheath pump and/or the waste pump draw sample fluid from a sample container into the interrogation zone. The fluidic system also includes a controller to adjust the flow rate of the sample fluid from the sample container into the interrogation zone. The pump and controller cooperate to propagate a pulsation through the flow channel from the pump if the flow channel is clogged. The fluidic system is preferably incorporated into a flow cytometer with a flow cell that includes the interrogation zone.
US08262988B2 Antigen supply device
An antigen supply device 1 according to the present invention is mainly configured by a cylindrical member 3 extending in the vertical direction. An air suction port 5 for sucking the air in the antigen exposure chamber is provided at a lower end of the cylindrical member. An axial fan 6 that generates a flow of the air flowing upward in an axial direction of the cylindrical member is attached above the air suction port of the cylindrical member. Moreover, a supply port 4 through which high-concentration antigens are jetted from a dust feeder on the outside of the antigen exposure chamber is provided above the axial fan of the cylindrical member. The antigen supply device 1 is disposed near the outdoor air diffuser of the antigen exposure chamber, and configured to blow out high-concentration antigens, which are supplied from the dust feeder on the outside of the antigen exposure chamber, to the outdoor air diffuser 2 from an upper end of the cylindrical member after mixing the antigens with the air in the antigen exposure chamber sucked from the air suction port and diluting the antigens, and moreover mix the antigens with the outdoor air from the outdoor air diffuser to fill the antigen exposure chamber A with the mixture of the antigens and the outdoor air.
US08262986B2 Apparatus and methods for disinfecting spaces
The instant invention provides methods and apparatus for disinfecting a space, e.g., a hospital room, using chlorine dioxide. One aspect of the invention provides an apparatus for disinfecting a space. The apparatus includes: a chlorine dioxide gas generator; a sensor adapted and configured to measure the relative pressure inside the space and outside the space; and a computer operatively connected to the sensor and the chlorine dioxide generator, the computer adapted and configured to control the chlorine dioxide generator to operate only when the space is under negative pressure as compared to outside the space. Another aspect of the invention provides a method of disinfecting a space. The method includes: setting an apparatus as described herein in the space; and allowing the apparatus to determine if the space is under negative pressure. If the space is under negative pressure, the apparatus generates chlorine dioxide gas to disinfect the space.
US08262984B1 Mixing, milling, and aeration apparatus for digesting metal ore with bacteria
Disclosed is a mixing, milling, and aeration apparatus for the digestion of metal ore with bacteria. It includes a tank and a center post therein. At least one mixing blade extends radially from the center post. At least one roller is supported by a mixing blade, where each roller is configured to roll about the center of the tank while applying a crushing force to solids within the tank. At least one gas distributor, supported by a mixing blade, defines a plurality of holes through which gas is distributed to encourage mixing of the contents of the tank, to encourage distribution of oxygen through the contents, and to discourage fouling of the bottom of the tank and the rollers.
US08262982B2 Apparatus for removal and replacement of a hinged lid on a metallurgical transport vessel
An apparatus for the removal and replacement of a lid on a metallurgical transport vessel such as a ladle or a torpedo car. The apparatus comprises a frame, means for supporting the frame such that the vessel may be moved into position thereunder, a linkage including at least one lifting member pivotally connected to the frame, and at least one actuator connected to the linkage. The actuator is operable to move the lifting member such that when the vessel is moved to a designated position below the apparatus, the lifting member can be moved by the actuator and linkage from a first position providing clearance above the vessel, through a curved path to an intermediate position where it engages the lid, providing a vertical lifting force and a horizontal hinge releasing force to the lid, and to a second position where the lid is raised to a sufficient height to clear the vessel. The lifting member may subsequently be moved back by means of the actuator and linkage through a reverse curved path to the first position, and thereby lower the lid back on to the vessel.
US08262979B2 Process of making a prosthetic device from electrospun fibers
In accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure, a process of forming a prosthetic device is provided. The process includes forming a dispersion of polymeric particles, a fiberizing polymer, and a solvent, the dispersion having a viscosity of at least about 50,000 cPs. A tubular frame is positioned over a tubular polymeric structure. Nanofibers from the dispersion are electrospun onto the tubular frame to form a prosthetic device. The prosthetic device is heated.
US08262969B2 Apparatus and method for manufacturing an aircraft stringer
An apparatus and method of forming a stringer or an integral stringer and fuselage skin. The apparatus may be a solid bladder made of silicone, urethane, or any similar material or combination thereof. The method may comprise placing composite material onto a surface of a tooling having a channel sized and shaped to correspond to a desired stringer size and shape. Then the solid bladder may be placed onto the composite material relative the channel. The shape of the solid bladder may correspond to the shape of the channel. Composite material may then be placed over the solid bladder, vacuum-sealed against the bladder and the tooling, and cured to harden the composite material, thereby forming a stringer or an integral stringer and fuselage skin.
US08262962B2 Die-cut and method of manufacturing or assembling die-cuts from the components thereof
Methods are provided for assembling desired die-cuts from individual die-cut components. Each individual die-cut component may consist of films of various materials, diverse adhesive tapes, diverse foam materials, fabrics, metals and others. Individual die-cut components are assembled onto liners that function as carriers or platforms. The liners may be in individual panels or continuous rolls. Individual die-cut components are assembled onto the liner using computer controlled pick and place equipment with a high degree of accuracy and speed. The liner may consist of a film with controlled adhesive strength to maintain the x-y position of placed individual die-cut components. The die-cut comprising the liner and assembled die-cut components is then used for various purposes, such as holding two parts together, in the assembly of various products, such as cell phones.
US08262960B2 Compression-molded product using plant material and method for manufacturing the same
First, wood or bamboo is crushed to obtain wood powder with an average grain size of 5 μm to 100 μm. Next, the wood powder is put in a first mold, and a first compression molding step is carried out under the conditions that, for example, a temperature is 160° C. and a pressure is 30 MPa. Thus, a temporary molded body is obtained. Subsequently, the temporary molded body is immersed in a flame retardant and a surface of the temporary molded body is impregnated with the flame retardant. Thereafter, the temporary molded body is put in a second mold, and a second compression molding step is carried out under the conditions that, for example, a temperature is 200° C. and a pressure is 100 MPa. At this time, ingredients such as lignin and a hemicellulose are separated from the wood powder, and function as an adhesive. For this reason, pieces of crushed material are firmly bonded with each other so as to be integrated into a single body. Thus, a compression-molded product with a predetermined shape is obtained.
US08262959B2 Apparatus and method for recycling scrap, including automotive interior trim scrap
Useful articles are produced from shredded post-industrial (scrap), including post-consumer automotive interior trim parts obtained from vehicles. Feedstock is shredded into a fluff and mixed with an isocyanate prepolymer adhesive composition. The mixture may be placed into a mold, onto a continuous web or between laminating rolls to cure the mixture under pressure. The curing step can take place at room or elevated temperatures and only requires moisture either from the atmosphere or present in the shredded scrap or fluff. The articles produced may natural wood sheets such as Luan or wood composite boards currently adhered with urea-formaldehyde or phenol-formaldehyde resins. Other applications include structural or non-structural parts such as bulk heads, roofs, floors or vertical walls used in automotive vehicles, tractor trailers, recreational vehicles or marine vessels.
US08262955B2 Epoxy foam resin
A process for making epoxy resin foam blocks of varying density comprising mixing together (i) a foam resin comprising: a first epoxy resin, a foaming agent to the extent of 2% to 10% of the mass of the epoxy resin, a surfactant to the extent of 2% to 6% of the mass of the epoxy resin, a filler, a toughening agent and (ii) a curing agent comprising: a hardener and a second epoxy resin, the ratio of the foam resin to curing agent being in the range of about 100:20 to 100:25 by mass to form a reaction mixture; pouring the reaction mixture inside a mold maintained at a temperature in the range of 70° to 80° C. and allowing the mixture to cure in the mold for 60 to 100 min.; allowing the mold to cool at a temperature in the range of 15° C. to 30° C. and demolding to obtain a green block; and post-curing the green block in an air circulatory oven for 10 to 15 hrs to obtain a final hard foam block.
US08262953B2 Method for making optical diffuser
A method for making an optical diffuser includes the following steps: providing a pressing plate and a substrate; coating a layer of PTFE film on the pressing plate; sandblasting and grinding the layer of PTFE film to form a number of uniformly distributed micro-concaves; coating a layer of acrylic resin onto the substrate; pressing the layer of PTFE film with the pressing plate onto the layer of acrylic resin to form a number of uniformly distributed raised micro-dots on the layer of acrylic resin; and separating the layer of acrylic resin from the layer of PTFE film to obtain an optical diffuser.
US08262951B2 Mold forming method and apparatus, and plastic lens manufacturing method and apparatus
A method of forming a mold, concludes: winding a tape around peripheral surfaces of a first molding die and a second molding die to assemble a mold; forming on the tape an injection port for injecting a resin material for forming a plastic lens into the mold; and forming a tab by cutting out a part of the tape non-circularly.
US08262949B2 Long wavelength shifted benzotriazole uv-absorbers and their use
The instant invention relates to novel benzotriazole UV-absorbers having a long wavelength shifted absorption spectrum with significant absorbance up to 410-420 nm. Further aspects of the invention are a process for their preparation, a UV stabilized composition containing the new UV-absorbers and the use of the new compounds as UV-light stabilizers for organic materials.
US08262947B2 UV/visible light absorbers for ophthalmic lens materials
Benzotriazole UV/Visible light-absorbing monomers are disclosed. The UV/Vis absorbers are particularly suitable for use in intraocular lens materials.
US08262945B2 Stabilization of photochromic systems
Photochromic compositions are disclosed comprising a polymeric material, a photochromic dye, a hydroxyphenyl triazine UV absorber and, optionally, a further light stabilizer selected from the sterically hindered amines. These systems provide a reversible photochromic effect and show improved light stabilization and color fastness.
US08262943B2 Method for manufacturing carbon nanotube-conducting polymer composite
A method for manufacturing a conducting polymer composite with carbon nanotubes is described. A conducting polymer is compounded with the CNT film by in-situ electrochemical polymerization.
US08262942B2 Hollow carbon nanosphere based secondary cell electrodes
The inventive subject matter relates to hollow carbon nanospheres (HCNS) as a material for making ion storage material, and particularly lithium ion storage material used for batteries.
US08262937B2 Green phosphor for plasma display panel and plasma display panel including same
A green phosphor for a plasma display panel and a plasma display panel including the same, the green phosphor including a first phosphor of YAl5O12:Ce, and a second phosphor of Zn1-xMgx (Ga1-yAly)2O4:Mn, wherein 0≦x<1, 0≦y<1.
US08262930B2 Liquid crystalline medium and liquid crystal display
The instant invention relates to dielectrically positive nematic media comprising one, two or more compounds of formula I one or more compounds selected from the group of formulae II and III and one or more compounds selected from the group of formulae IV and V wherein the parameters are as defined in claim 1 with the proviso that the media comprise one or more compounds of formula III, wherein n and o both are 1 and all rings are 1,4-phenylene, which independently of each other optionally are fluorinated once or twice, and/or one or more compounds of formula V, wherein q is 2, as well as to liquid crystal displays comprising these media, especially to TN-displays and in particular to active matrix displays.
US08262928B2 Etchant and method of manufacturing an array substrate using the same
An etchant includes about 0.1 percent by weight to about 30 percent by weight of ammonium persulfate (NH4)2S2O8, about 0.1 percent by weight to about 10 percent by weight of an inorganic acid, about 0.1 percent by weight to about 10 percent by weight of an acetate salt, about 0.01 percent by weight to about 5 percent by weight of a fluorine-containing compound, about 0.01 percent by weight to about 5 percent by weight of a sulfonic acid compound, about 0.01 percent by weight to about 2 percent by weight of an azole compound, and a remainder of water. Accordingly, the etchant may have high stability to maintain etching ability. Thus, manufacturing margins may be improved so that manufacturing costs may be reduced.
US08262924B2 Azeotropic and azeotrope-like compositions of E-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluoro-2-butene
Azeotropic or azeotrope-like compositions are disclosed. The azeotropic or azeotrope-like compositions are mixtures of E-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluoro-2-butene with methyl formate, n-pentane, 2-methylbutane, trans-1,2-dichloroethylene, 1,1,1,3,3-pentafluoropropane, n-butane or isobutane. Also disclosed is a process of preparing a thermoplastic or thermoset foam by using such azeotropic or azeotrope-like compositions as blowing agents. Also disclosed is a process of producing refrigeration by using such azeotropic or azeotrope-like compositions. Also disclosed is a process of using such azeotropic or azeotrope-like compositions as solvents. Also disclosed is a process of producing an aerosol product by using such azeotropic or azeotrope-like compositions. Also disclosed is a process of using such azeotropic or azeotrope-like compositions as heat transfer media. Also disclosed is a process of extinguishing or suppressing a fire by using such azeotropic or azeotrope-like compositions. Also disclosed is a process of using such azeotropic or azeotrope-like compositions as dielectrics.
US08262923B2 High pressure bevel etch process
A method of preventing arcing during bevel edge etching a semiconductor substrate with a plasma in a bevel etcher in which the semiconductor substrate is supported on a semiconductor substrate support comprises bevel edge etching the semiconductor substrate with the plasma in the bevel etcher while evacuating the bevel etcher to a pressure of 3 to 100 Torr while maintaining RF voltage seen at the wafer at a low enough value to avoid arcing.
US08262921B2 Substrate processing method, substrate processing apparatus and recording medium
An ashing process in which an etching mask is removed through ashing by supplying hydrogen radicals toward a wafer W being heated to a predetermined temperature and a restoration process in which the film quality of a low dielectric constant insulating film having been damaged during an etching process is restored while, at the same time, rendering the low dielectric constant insulating film exposed at a recessed portion into a hydrophobic state by supplying a gas containing a β-diketone compound with an ignition point equal to or higher than 300° C. toward the wafer W having undergone the ashing process, are executed.
US08262919B1 Method and system for providing a perpendicular magnetic recording pole using multiple chemical mechanical planarizations
A method and system for providing a pole of magnetic transducer having an intermediate layer are described. The method and system include providing a trench in the intermediate layer and depositing a nonmagnetic liner. A portion of the nonmagnetic liner resides in the trench. At least one seed layer is deposited. A portion of the at least one seed layer resides in the trench. The method and system include depositing at least one main pole layer. The at least one main pole layer is magnetic. A portion of the main pole layer(s) reside in the trench. The method and system also include performing a first chemical mechanical planarization (CMP). An excess portion of the seed layer(s) external to the trench are removed through an ion beam etch. The method and system further include performing a second CMP to remove an excess portion of the nonmagnetic liner external to the trench.
US08262917B2 Fabricating method for multilayer printed circuit board
A fabrication method for a multilayer printed circuit board includes: forming a first circuit-forming pattern and a first insulation layer, into which the first circuit-forming pattern is inserted, on a first carrier; forming inner circuit patterns and inner insulation layers over the first insulation layer, and forming inner vias connecting the inner circuit patterns positioned on different insulation layers; forming a second circuit-forming pattern on a second carrier and inserting the second circuit-forming pattern into a second insulation layer on an outermost side; removing the first carrier and the second carrier; forming circuit-forming grooves by removing the first circuit-forming pattern and the second circuit-forming pattern, and forming via-forming indentations connected with the circuit-forming grooves; and forming outer circuit patterns and outer vias by filling the circuit-forming grooves and the via-forming indentations with a conductive material. This can provide a thin printed circuit board having high reliability and fine-lined circuits.
US08262916B1 Enhanced methods for at least partial in situ release of sacrificial material from cavities or channels and/or sealing of etching holes during fabrication of multi-layer microscale or millimeter-scale complex three-dimensional structures
Embodiments of the invention are directed to multi-layer, multi-material fabrication methods (e.g. electrochemical fabrication methods) which provide improved versatility in producing complex microdevices and in particular in removing sacrificial material from passages, channels, or cavities that are complex or that include etching access ports in their final configurations that are small relative to passage, channel, or cavity lengths. Embodiments of the present invention provide for removal of sacrificial material from these passages, channels or cavities using one or more initial or preliminary removal steps that occur prior to completion of the such passages that results from the completion of the layer forming steps. In some embodiments, first sacrificial material is replaced after a secondary solid sacrificial material after the initial removal step or steps. In other embodiments, the first sacrificial material is replaced after a liquid material after the initial removal step or steps. In some embodiments, desired structure formation may occur along or separately from one or more etchant directing manifolds that can force etchant into the passages, channels, and cavities.
US08262913B2 Column packing method
A method for packing a media bed in a column (3) from a slurry being a dispersion of said media particles and a liquid, said method comprising the steps of: a) estimating a slurry concentration; b) filling the column (3) with a certain volume of the slurry from a slurry tank (13) connected to the column; c) packing a test media bed from the slurry; d) detecting where the test media bed is consolidated; e) use the information about the consolidated test media bed height for providing to the column an amount of slurry that after further packing will give a user target bed height; f) packing a media bed from the slurry.
US08262911B2 Method for treatment of sludge
A method for treatment of sludge with a facultative-organism-adapted membrane bioreactor by providing a sludge treatment system comprising a facultative digestion tank, a membrane module, an aeration system, a sludge pump, and a drainage pump, pumping sludge into the facultative digestion tank via the sludge pump and allowing for digestion, synchronously aerating and scouring the membrane module by the aeration system, pumping the sludge by the drainage pump and filtrating by the membrane module so that sludge and water are separated, and draining the water via the drainage pump. The method can digest sludge completely in the digestion tank, and solves problems existing in conventional sludge treatment methods such as large investment and high transportation cost, even achieves a subject of zero discharge of sludge.
US08262905B2 Oil and polar additive impregnated composition useful in the catalytic hydroprocessing of hydrocarbons, a method of making such catalyst, and a process of using such catalyst
A composition that comprises a support material having incorporated therein a metal component and impregnated with both hydrocarbon oil and a polar additive. The composition that is impregnated with both hydrocarbon oil and polar additive is useful in the hydrotreating of hydrocarbon feedstocks, and it is especially useful in applications involving delayed feed introduction whereby the composition is first treated with hot hydrogen, and, optionally, with a sulfur compound, prior to contacting it with a hydrocarbon feedstock under hydrodesulfurization process conditions.
US08262898B2 Nanotube position controlling method, nanotube position controlling flow path pattern and electronic element using nanotube
A flow-path pattern provided with plural flow paths along a facing direction of facing electrodes is placed on the facing electrodes, a carbon nanotube-dispersed solvent is guided to the flow paths to allow it to flow in one direction, and, after the solvent is dried, the flow-path pattern is peeled off the facing electrodes, thereby controlling the position of carbon nanotubes. The flow path pattern is made of a filmy material. The respective flow paths are formed in parallel to each other at constant intervals, and an interval M between adjacent facing electrodes and an interval N between adjacent flow paths have a constant relation between them. Liquid pools for the carbon nanotube-dispersed solvent are provided at ends of the flow path pattern to allow the liquid pools to communicate with the respective flow paths.
US08262895B2 Plating bath and method
Copper plating baths containing a leveling agent that is a reaction product of a certain benzimidazole with a certain epoxide-containing compound that deposit copper on the surface of a conductive layer are provided. Such plating baths deposit a copper layer that is substantially planar on a substrate surface across a range of electrolyte concentrations. Methods of depositing copper layers using such copper plating baths are also disclosed.
US08262894B2 High speed copper plating bath
A copper electroplating bath that includes an aqueous solution that comprises a copper salt and at least one acid and a container that comprises a copper salt in solid form, is disclosed. The container supplies copper ions to the aqueous solution to maintain the copper ion concentration of the aqueous solution at saturation levels while retaining the copper salt in solid form within the container.
US08262893B2 Aluminum plated film, metallic member, and its fabrication method
A plating film is provided with enough hardness before anodic oxidation, which is hard to be damaged during handling, and also the production method of the plating film. This problem can be solved by an aluminum plating film with aluminum concentration of 98 wt. % or lower, and with a Vickers hardness of 250 or higher. The hardness is increased by containing oxygen, carbon, sulfur, and a halogen element as impurities. The impurity concentration is controlled by adjusting the current density, the plating temperature, or the plating bath composition.
US08262890B2 Electrodeposition painting systems and methods for electrode sterilizing in electrodeposition painting systems
Electrodeposition painting systems may include an electrodeposition bath containing an electrodeposition paint solution, wherein the electrodeposition paint solution is in contact with an electrodeposition bath anode that charges the paint such that it electrocoats parts submerged therein to form electrocoated parts, a rinse tank that rinses the electrocoated parts, wherein a rinse tank reservoir of the rinse tank is capable of fluid communication with the electrodeposition bath, a filter that filters the electrodeposition paint solution to separate filtered water from the paint, and an ionizer assembly including one or more electrodes in contact with the filtered water and a power supply connected to the one or more electrodes, wherein the power supply causes a plurality of electrode ions from the one or more electrodes to enter the filtered water to produce filtered water including electrode ions such that the filtered water including electrode ions flows into and sterilizes the electrodeposition paint solution.
US08262889B2 Unitary electrode and electrode support for horizontal electrophoresis
Horizontal electrophoresis is performed in a cell that includes a tank and a pair of electrodes, each mounted on an electrode support that is easily inserted into and removed from the tank, and once inserted, is secured in position by one or more spring-loaded, manual-release locking features.
US08262887B2 Method for increasing measurement precision of two-dimensional protein
A method for increasing measurement precision of two-dimensional protein electrophoresis is provided, in which the electrical conductivity of a protein sample under test is measured for calculating the electrical energy required to enable salt and protein focusing. The method is characterized by a set of equations for calculating the electrical energy required respectively for protein focusing and for electrophoresis of salts in the protein sample, wherein the calculation is based on the electrical conductivity of the salts, the protein weight, a pH-gradient gel strip length, and a pH range. Thus, different protein samples can be supplied with the appropriate amounts of electrical energy for isoelectric focusing, so as to produce the optimal protein focusing effects and ensure that the focusing of protein in a gel will not be adversely affected by an otherwise insufficient or excessive supply of electrical energy.
US08262884B2 Electrophoresis device and method for separating objects
An electrophoresis method is provided for separating objects in a fluid contained in a separation channel. The method comprises: applying an electric field along the separation channel, the electric field having a field profile, and thereby causing at least some of the objects to move relative to the fluid; varying the applied electric field so as to adjust the field profile relative to the separation channel, thereby causing the objects to separate into bands under the combined influences of an electric force due to the electric field and a hydrodynamic force due to the fluid.
US08262877B2 Glass electrode and sensitive glass for the glass electrode
Disclosed is a sensitive glass for use in a pH-sensitive glass electrode, which comprises at least Me2O3 (Me represents a lanthanoid) and further comprises Y2O3 or Sc2O3 in an amount smaller than that of the Me2O3. Also disclosed is a sensitive glass for use in a cation-sensitive glass electrode, which comprises at least Y2O3 or Sc2O3.
US08262873B2 Anode assembly for electroplating
The invention relates to an anode assembly for electroplating comprising (a) an anode body comprising soluble anode material and (b) a shielding covering at least part of the anode body and comprising a self-passivating metal electrically connected to the anode body and allowing electrolyte transport therethrough. The shielding comprises at least one layer of self-passivating metal having no openings larger than 2 mm, preferably 1 mm, in width or the shielding comprises at least two layers of self-passivating metal wherein the openings of at least one layer are at least partially covered by the metal of another layer. The invention also relates to a shielded anode basket, a method for electroplating and the use of the anode assembly and the shielded anode basket.
US08262871B1 Plating method and apparatus with multiple internally irrigated chambers
An apparatus for electroplating a layer of metal onto a work piece surface includes a membrane separating the chamber of the apparatus into a catholyte chamber and an anolyte chamber. In the catholyte chamber is a catholyte manifold region that includes a catholyte manifold and at least one flow distribution tube. The catholyte manifold and at least one flow distribution tube serve to mix and direct catholyte flow in the catholyte chamber. The provided configuration effectively reduces failure and improves the operational ranges of the apparatus.
US08262863B2 Paper machine for used paper recycling apparatus
The invention presents a paper machine for a used paper recycling apparatus being installed in a room of a small shop or the like, friendly to the environment, low in running cost, and capable of maintaining a high confidentiality. The paper machine includes a paper making process unit for manufacturing wet paper from slurry pulp suspension sent from the pulp making section of a preceding process, and a drying process unit for drying the wet paper manufactured in the paper making process unit and making recycled paper, in which a processing conveyor is disposed between the paper making process unit and the drying process unit extending in the overall length of the paper making process and the drying process, and this processing conveyor is manufactured in a form of net belt conveyor having a running mesh belt of mesh structure composed of innumerable mesh cells for filtering and dewatering the pulp suspension. In this configuration, it is not required to exchange the conveyors when changing the process of the manufactured wet paper from the paper making process to the drying process.
US08262858B2 Compositions and processes for paper production
Oxidative compositions and processes that preserve and enhance the brightness and improve color of pulp or paper when applied during different stages of the papermaking process are identified. The oxidative composition and method maintains and/or enhances brightness, prevents yellowing, and enhances the performance of paper products. Used in combination with optical brighteners and/or chelants the oxidative agents produce a synergistic effect not previously identified in the paper process.
US08262854B2 Method for recovering hydrolysis products
An improved method for treating lignocellulosic material, including a prehydrolysis-mass transfer process, which produces a concentrated hydrolysate volume during the time required for the hydrolysis itself. The improved process comprises the heating of the digester and chip content by direct steam to the required hydrolysis temperature, starting a flow of hot, stored hydrolysate to the top of the chip bed in order to create a trickle-bed type down-flow of hydrolysate, collecting a first fraction of the trickled-down hydrolysate as a product fraction, adding extraction liquid and continuing the trickle flow to collect a second hydrolysate fraction, which will be discharged from the digester to a hot hydrolysate storage tank to be used as the first trickle flow liquid in the next batch.
US08262851B2 Processes and systems for the pulping of lignocellulosic materials
A non-compression vessel, such as a digester, is employed for the chemical preconditioning of the chips followed by a fiberizing device to break the preconditioned chips down to fiber bundles, which are then washed before a high consistency chemical treatment. The digester may be one such as used in conventional chemical pulping of wood with or without screens for the extraction of chemical. If extracted this chemical could be recirculated to the digester with treatment in the circulation loop such as heating or the addition of dilution or other chemicals. This digester may be hydraulic or vapor phase (that is contain a vapor space within the digester), and operate in either a continuous or batch fashion. This digester allows for the discharge of material without the use of a screw mechanism. The digester treated material is then defiberized to convert the chips into course fiber bundles, which then is washed and dewatered. The washed and dewatered pulp is then treated with alkali peroxide chemicals to develop brightness and other pulp properties.
US08262850B2 Chemical activation and refining of southern pine kraft fibers
A method for alteration of the morphology of cellulose fibers, particularly softwood fibers, by (a) subjecting the fibers to a metal ion-activated peroxide treatment carried out at a pH of between about 1 and about 9, preferably between 3 and 7, and (b) subjecting the treated fibers to a refining treatment thereby converts SW fibers to HW-like fibers in many respects. The metal ion-activated peroxide treatment has been noted to act on pulp cellulose and hemi-cellulose, causing oxidation and oxidative degradation of cellulose fibers. The chemical treatment of the pulp, taken alone, is not sufficient to attain the desired modification of the morphology of the fibers, however, subsequent refining or like mechanical treatment of the chemically-treated fibers to achieve a given degree of refinement of the fibers requires dramatically less refining energy to achieve a desired end point of refinement and to impart other desirable properties to the pulp. A pulp of modified SW fibers and a mixture of HW fibers and modified HW fibers are disclosed.
US08262848B2 Plasma processing apparatus and method
A plasma processing apparatus includes a worktable in a process chamber to horizontally place a target substrate thereon. A plasma generation space is defined above and around the worktable within the process chamber. The plasma generation space includes a peripheral plasma region and a main plasma region respectively located outside and inside an outer edge of the target substrate placed on the worktable. The apparatus further includes a magnetic field forming mechanism configured to form a magnetic field within the peripheral plasma region. The magnetic field includes magnetic force lines extending through the peripheral plasma region between a start position and an end position, at least one of which is located radially inside a sidewall of the process chamber.
US08262845B2 Processing systems and methods for semiconductor devices
Systems and methods for processing semiconductor devices are disclosed. A preferred embodiment comprises a processing system that includes providing a processing system including a first container and a second container fluidly coupled to the first container, the second container being adapted to receive and retain an overflow amount of a fluid from the first container, and disposing the fluid in the first container and a portion of the second container. The method includes providing at least one semiconductor device, disposing the at least one semiconductor device in the first container, and maintaining the fluid in the second container substantially to a first level while processing the at least one semiconductor device with the fluid.
US08262843B2 Method of applying multi-layer structure onto a curved substrate
A curved multi-layer structure (10) is formed from individual films (1, 2) that are initially flat. The films are firmly bonded to each other along respective facing surfaces. A heat treatment is applied to one or both of the films (1, 2) of the structure so as to cause respective contractions or elongations that are different for the two films at standard use temperatures. A difference between said contractions or elongations causes the curvature of the multi-layer structure. The structure thus has a permanent curved shape, without contact between compression-forming instruments and a useful part of the multi-layer structure being necessary. The multi-layer structure can then be applied onto a curved substrate without causing any tears or ripples.
US08262842B2 Automated label verify systems and methods for dispensing pharmaceuticals
Apparatus and methods for filling a prescription order with plurality of products each containing a pharmaceutical. The apparatus and method verifying a barcode on each of the products and printing and applying a patient label with a verified barcode to each of the products. After the patient label is applied, the barcodes are independently verified before the products are released.
US08262840B2 Composite material structure with interlayer electrical conductance
A composite material structure includes a first fiber layer, a second fiber layer, a resin layer between the first fiber layer and the second fiber layer and a plurality of chopped fibers provided in the resin layer.
US08262839B2 Method for manufacturing panels and panel hereby obtained
Method for manufacturing panels, wherein these panels are composed at least of a substrate and a top layer, which includes at least one material sheet, wherein for said material sheet use is made of a material sheet which previously is provided with a radiation-hardening covering layer, in which hard particles are included.
US08262830B2 Method for making a flexible packaging structure with a built-in opening and reclose feature
A flexible packaging laminate is formed to have a built-in opening and reclose feature by forming the laminate as a two-part structure having an outer structure joined in face-to-face relation with an inner structure. Score lines are formed in both structures to enable an opening to be formed through the laminate by lifting an opening portion (e.g., a flap or the like) of the two structures out of the plane of the laminate. The score line through the outer structure defines a larger opening than the score line through the inner structure, such that a marginal region of the outer structure extends beyond the edge of the opening portion of the inner structure. A pressure-sensitive adhesive is used to re-adhere the marginal region to an underlying surface of the inner structure adjacent the opening through the laminate.
US08262828B2 System including integrated RFID programmer
An RFID applicator system including an integrated RFID programmer for programming RFID labels prior to affixing the labels to items. The system may also include an integrated printer for printing on the RFID labels prior to affixing the labels to items. A remote device for controlling the programmer is also provided.
US08262825B2 End-fittings for composite tubes, method for joining fittings to the ends of composite tubes and composite tubes incorporating end-fitting
Composite tubes may be fabricated by filament winding a layer of resin impregnated carbon fiber with a near-axial fiber orientation over a mandrel and over end-fittings. Bands of resin-impregnated fibers are then wound circumferentially around this near-axial layer in a position that coincides with a circumferential groove in the underlying end-fittings. The ends of the near-axial layer are folded back over the bands, resulting in a double layer of intact near-axial fibers locked into the groove on the end-fittings by the bands of intact circumferential fibers. Testing has shown this arrangement to be effective for introducing very high axial loads onto the composite tube.
US08262819B2 Tough, high-strength titanium alloys; methods of heat treating titanium alloys
The present disclosure describes methods of heat treating Ti-based alloys and various improvements that can be realized using such heat treatments. In one exemplary implementation, the invention provides a method of forming a metal member that involves forming an alloy into a utile shape and cooling the alloy from a first temperature above a beta transus temperature of the alloy to a second temperature below the beta transus temperature at a cooling rate of no more than about 30° F./minute. If so desired, the alloy my be treated for a period of about 1-12 hours at about 700-1100° F. Titanium alloys treated according to aspects of the invention may have higher tensile strengths and higher fracture toughness than conventional wrought, mill-annealed Ti 64 alloy.
US08262812B2 Process for forming a chromium diffusion portion and articles made therefrom
In one embodiment, a method for forming an article with a diffusion portion comprises: forming a slurry comprising chromium and silicon, applying the slurry to the article, and heating the article to a sufficient temperature and for a sufficient period of time to diffuse chromium and silicon into the article and form a diffusion portion comprising silicon and a microstructure comprising α-chromium. In one embodiment, a gas turbine component comprises: a superalloy and a diffusion portion having a depth of less than or equal to 60 μm measured from the superalloy surface into the gas turbine component. The diffusion portion has a diffusion surface having a microstructure comprising greater than or equal to 40% by volume α-chromium.
US08262811B2 Aqueous reaction solution and method of passivating workpieces having zinc or zinc alloy surfaces and use of a heteroaromatic compound
For producing corrosion resistant yellow passivate layers on zinc and zinc alloy surfaces, an aqueous reaction solution is utilized that contains trivalent chromium ions, at least one acid as well as at least one heteroaromatic compound selected from the group comprising nicotinic acid, the salts and derivatives thereof.
US08262805B2 Poly sulfonate functionalized alkyl polyglucosides for enhanced food soil removal
A cleaning composition including a primarily C12 poly sulfonate functionalized alkyl polyglucoside, a water conditioning agent, an acid source, a solvent, and water. In one embodiment, the cleaning composition is substantially free of alkyl phenol ethoxylates. The cleaning composition is capable of removing soils including up to 20% proteins. The cleaning compositions include a biorenewable, environmentally friendly alternative to nonyl phenol ethoxylates and exhibit superior cleaning of food soils.
US08262799B2 Substrate processing apparatus and substrate transferring method
A substrate processing apparatus includes a substrate holding and rotating mechanism for holding and rotating a substrate; a positioning member disposed on the substrate holding and rotating mechanism for positioning a substrate at a predetermined substrate holding position; a substrate transfer mechanism for transferring a substrate to the substrate holding and rotating mechanism; and a pressing unit disposed on the substrate transfer mechanism for pressing a substrate toward the positioning member.
US08262797B1 Weir design providing optimal purge gas flow, melt control, and temperature stabilization for improved single crystal growth in a continuous Czochralski process
A weir is extended vertically to define an optimal annular gap between the top of the weir and the underside of a super-adjacent heat shield. The annular gap provides a high velocity stream of argon gas to be directed from the growth region to the melt region to substantially eliminate the transport of airborne particles from the melt region to the growth region. The tall weir may be configured as a modular, reusable weir extension supportably engaged with an outer (and/or inner) weir.
US08262795B2 Method and apparatus for the production of crystalline silicon substrates
An apparatus and method for producing a crystalline ribbon continuously from a melt pool of liquid feed material, e.g. silicon. The silicon is melted and flowed into a growth tray to provide a melt pool of liquid silicon. Heat is passively extracted by allowing heat to flow from the melt pool up through a chimney. Heat is simultaneously applied to the growth tray to keep the silicon in its liquid phase while heat loss is occurring through the chimney. A template is placed in contact with the melt pool as heat is lost through the chimney so that the silicon starts to “freeze” (i.e. solidify) and adheres to the template. The template is then pulled from the melt pool thereby producing a continuous ribbon of crystalline silicon.
US08262794B2 Lithium niobate wafers with narrow distribution of surface acoustic wave properties
A method is provided of growing crystals from compounds that melt congruently with negligible volatilization. The composition of one or more crystal samples is measured. A determination is made of a deviation of crystal composition from congruency. A determination is made of an initial melt composition and a source material composition correction relative to the deviation. Crystals are grown using the composition correction to yield reproducible material for surface acoustic substrate manufacturing.
US08262786B2 Combustible energy filtering and recycling system
A combustible energy filtering and recycling system includes a filtering tank, a gas exhaust vent, an overflow vent, and a water-collection chamber. A Venturi gas filter pipe is fixed to the filtering tank and connected with a gas intake pipe which is used for introducing a combustible gas into the gas filter pipe. A first end of the gas filter pipe is connected to a water intake pipe, such that the cooling water can be flowed through the gas filter pipe and collected at the water-collection chamber, and thus dusts and impurities in the combustible gas can be submerged into the cooling water due to the effects of pressure accumulation, air acceleration and pressure reboost produced by the gas filter pipe and the inertia effect. The combustible gas insoluble in water will then be introduced into the gas exhaust vent, so that manufacturers can recycle a high-quality and pollution-free combustible gas.
US08262782B2 Respirator filter canister
A gas mask filter canister of varying shapes is filled by orienting the a fill opening to face upwardly, introducing into the fill opening a particulate filter material, and vibrating the filter canister at a frequency and amplitude, and for a time until a predetermined packing density is reached. The invention can be used to fill elliptical or other odd shaped filter canisters having a concave profiles to conform closely to the curvature of the wearer's face.
US08262775B2 Tetratopic phenyl compounds, related metal-organic framework materials and post-assembly elaboration
Disclosed are tetratopic carboxylic acid phenyl for use in metal-organic framework compounds. These compounds are useful in catalysis, gas storage, sensing, biological imaging, drug delivery and gas adsorption separation.
US08262772B2 Refinery gas upgrading via partial condensation and PSA
A process and system for recovering valuable by-products (e.g., hydrogen) from refinery gas streams. For hydrogen-only recovery, the invention comprises a partial condensation step to upgrade the refinery fuel gas to a minimum of 60% hydrogen, which is further purified in a pressure swing adsorption process. When configured to recover hydrogen, methane-rich gas and raw LPG (methane depleted gas containing C2 hydrocarbons and heavier), the invention comprises two partial condensation steps where the feed is cooled in the first step to allow separation of ethane and heavier hydrocarbons, and the resulting vapor is cooled to a lower temperature in a second step for hydrogen recovery.
US08262769B2 Method of detinning Sn plating layer on Cu-based material
A Cu-based material 5 is immersed into an alkali hydroxide solution with a concentration of 3.0 to 37.5 mass % and a H2O2 solution with a concentration of 3.0 to 50.0 mass % is added in the alkali hydroxide solution, a temperature of the alkali hydroxide solution when the Cu-based material is immersed ranges from 60 to 105° C., a ratio A/B between a mol number A of alkali hydroxide in the alkali hydroxide solution and a mol number B of H2O2 in the H2O2 solution is 10 or more, and where a mol number of Sn in the Sn layer is C and a mol number of Sn in the CuSn layer is D, B≧C×2+D×6.
US08262765B2 Method of preparing a controlled release fertilizer
Methods of preparing a controlled release fertilizer include obtaining an amino acid fermentation byproduct liquor, and converting ammonium in the amino acid fermentation byproduct liquor to magnesium ammonium phosphate to obtain the controlled release fertilizer.
US08262761B2 Modular cyclone precleaner system and method
A modular cyclone precleaner system includes one or more standardized and reusable modular cyclone blocks configured in parallel. The modular cyclone blocks are provided as components designed for reuse across differing precleaner systems for potentially different precleaner applications, providing standardized component building blocks and reducing manufacturing cost. The modular cyclone blocks are designed to be selectively combinable to provide a cyclone precleaner system having the required gas flow characteristics and particulate removal capabilities required for any given precleaner application. The precleaner system includes a housing that is sized for at least one given precleaner application and adapted to supportively receive the selectively combined modular cyclone blocks for the application.
US08262758B2 Method and equipment for making abrasive particles in even distribution, array pattern and preferred orientation
An equipment for making abrasive particles in even distribution, array pattern and preferred orientation comprises an adsorbing releasing apparatus being composed of a plurality of acicular soft magnetic metallic sticks, an upper and a lower stators, and a plurality of windings. Each winding forms an electric circuit through a electrical source, a resistance, and a switch a plurality of blind holes being distributed on face of the blind hole feeding tropism board. Using electric current to form magnetic field for the acicular soft magnetic metallic sticks absorb or release abrasive particles plated with soft magnetic materials. The equipment is simple, convenient in operation, high in efficiency and reliability. The equipment makes abrasive particles in matrix with an ideal state in distributing density, uniformity, arrange, and tropism. Thereby, the function of the abrasive materials is fully exerted and the life of products is prolonged.
US08262757B2 Infrared cured abrasive articles
An abrasive article includes a polymer binder, an infrared radiation absorbing dye, and abrasive grains. In particular embodiments, the abrasive articles have been at least partially cured using infrared radiation. The abrasive articles of the present invention can include, for example, coated abrasives, structured abrasives, and bonded abrasives. Methods for manufacturing abrasive articles include at least partially curing an article that includes a polymer binder precursor, an infrared radiation absorbing dye, and abrasive grains using infrared radiation.
US08262753B2 Apparatus for generating hydrocarbon fuel
An apparatus suitable for generating gaseous hydrocarbon fuel from a carbon based synthesis gas including a reaction chamber having a rotating shaft including a plurality of radial blades mixing and circulating carbon based synthesis gas and particulate catalyst upwardly generating gaseous hydrocarbon fuel, a stripping chamber located above the reaction chamber having a second axial rotating shaft including a plurality of radial blades driving hydrocarbon fuel radially outwardly, a source of hot stripping gas, an annular filter surrounding the stripping chamber and an annular gas collection chamber surrounding the filter. The blades in the stripping chamber are rotated independently at a greater velocity than the blades in the reaction chamber and the reaction is controlled by the temperature of the synthesis gas and the rotational velocity of the mixing blades in the reaction chamber.
US08262752B2 Systems and methods for reliable feedstock delivery at variable delivery rates
Hydrogen-producing fuel processing assemblies and methods for delivering feedstock to a hydrogen-producing region of a hydrogen-producing fuel processing assembly. In some embodiments, the fuel processing assemblies include a feedstock delivery system that includes a pump assembly and a stall prevention mechanism that is adapted to reduce pressure in an outlet conduit during periods in which the pump assembly is not emitting a liquid outlet stream within or above a hydrogen-producing pressure range. In some embodiments, pressure in the outlet conduit is isolated from pressure in the hydrogen-producing region of the fuel processing assembly and is reduced during periods in which a liquid stream is not being pumped within or above a hydrogen-producing pressure range.
US08262747B2 Cathode active material, cathode, nonaqueous electrolyte battery, and method for manufacturing cathode
A cathode active material has: a lithium composite oxide which contains the highest proportion of nickel among constituent metal elements except lithium; and a phosphorus compound which is contained near the surface of the lithium composite oxide, a cathode including the cathode active material, and a method for manufacturing the cathode.
US08262742B2 Reduction or prevention of dye bleeding
The present invention relates to a method of applying dye and stainblocker to a substrate comprising cationically dyeable fibers which reduces or eliminates the need for subsequent reapplication of dye. The present invention solves the problem of cationic dye removal resulting from stainblocker application by providing a method wherein application of stainblocker precedes the application of dye to a substrate comprising cationically dyeable fibers. Surprisingly, the invention provides a method wherein the effectiveness of cationic dye application is improved when preceded by stainblocker application compared to stainblocker application preceded by cationic dye application. The substrate comprising cationically dyeable fibers preferably further comprises acid dyeable fibers wherein even more preferably, said cationically dyeable fibers and acid dyeable fibers are attached to a backing to form a carpet.
US08262740B2 Bleaching composition
The present invention relates to bleaching composition for hair comprising at least one compound with bleaching and/or highlighting effect and at least one dipeptide.
US08262739B2 Hair treatment process using a direct emulsion comprising an oxidizing agent and a composition containing an alkaline agent
The present invention relates to a process for lightening or dyeing keratin materials, in which the following are used: a) a direct emulsion (A) comprising one or more fatty substances in an amount of greater than 25% by weight; one or more oxyalkylenated nonionic surfactants; an amount of water of greater than 5% by weight relative to the total weight of the emulsion, and one or more oxidizing agents, and b) a composition comprising one or more alkaline agents. The invention also relates to a multi-compartment device comprising, in one of them, an emulsion (A), and, in another, a composition (B) comprising one or more alkaline agents.
US08262735B2 Implantable spinal disk
Spinal disk including a shell, first endplate, second endplate and core. The shell includes sidewalls, back wall, front wall, top wall and bottom wall defining a compartment. The first endplate includes a first base, first top and first attachment. The first base is retained in the compartment. The first top is disposed in a first opening in the top wall forming a contact surface continuous with a surface of the top wall. The first attachment extends from the first top portion. The second endplate includes a second base, second top and second attachment. The second base is retained in the compartment. The second top is disposed in a second opening in the bottom wall forming a contact surface continuous with a surface of the bottom wall. The second attachment extends from the second top portion. The core is disposed in the compartment between the first endplate and the second endplate.
US08262733B2 Intervertebral disk prosthesis system
An intervertebral disk prosthesis system, which is used for forming an artificial intervertebral disk and comprises a first and a second prosthesis component wherein each of the two prosthesis components comprises a first and a second vertebral body contacting element for placement on neighboring vertebral bodies bounding an intervertebral disk space of a spinal column and a joint element that is mounted between and is moveable relative to at least one of the first and second vertebral body contacting elements, attains a substantially natural range of motion independent of the positioning of the two prosthesis components relative to each other and to the neighboring vertebral bodies. Each prosthesis component has a ball joint formed between the first and second vertebral body contacting elements.
US08262732B2 Intervertebral prosthesis
An intervertebral prosthesis for insertion between adjacent vertebrae includes upper and lower prosthesis plates locatable against respective vertebrae and having opposing, concavely curved recesses therein, and a core located between the plates. The core has opposed, convexly curved surfaces received in the recesses of the plates to allow the plates to slide in articulated manner over the core. The opposed surfaces of the core and the recesses of the plates have cooperating spherical curvatures. The recess of each plate surrounds a locating peg projecting centrally from the base of the recess and is bounded by an annular rim, such that the annular rims of the plates are arranged to contact one another at a predetermined limit of sliding movement of the plates over the core. The peg locates loosely in an opening located centrally in a curved surface of the core, whereby the plates can slide over the core in all directions while the peg holds the core captive.
US08262728B2 Intra-ocular device with multiple focusing powers/optics
An intraocular lens device that includes an intraocular lens optics that provides at least two powers of magnification one being near vision power and the other being distance vision power. The lens optics has surface modulations that are responsible for providing the near vision power. The zone structure provides an add power of over 6 diopters. The add power indicative of an extent that the near vision focusing power is greater than the distance vision focusing power.
US08262727B2 Intraocular multifocal lens
In accordance with the present invention, a multifocal intraocular lens provides greater or lesser refraction in relation to the position of the head and eyes of a user. A multifocal intraocular lens body for insertion into a fluid-filled enucleated natural lens capsule of an eye is provided wherein the lens body encompasses the optical axis of the eye and provides different greater or lesser refraction depending upon the position of the eye.
US08262726B2 Ocular implant with stiffness qualities, methods of implantation and system
Described herein are devices and methods for treating eye conditions. Described is an ocular implant including an elongate member having an internal lumen forming a flow pathway, at least one inflow port communicating with the flow pathway, and at least one outflow port communicating with the flow pathway. The elongate member is adapted to be positioned in the eye such that at least one inflow port communicates with the anterior chamber, at least one outflow port communicates with the suprachoroidal space to provide a fluid pathway between the anterior chamber and the suprachoroidal space when the elongate member is implanted in the eye. The elongate member has a wall material imparting a stiffness to the elongate member. The stiffness is selected such that after implantation the elongate member deforms eye tissue surrounding the suprachoroidal space forming a tented volume.
US08262724B2 Apparatus for treating a heart valve, in particular a mitral valve
An apparatus for treating a heart valve apparatus includes at least two anchoring elements designed to be anchored at the annulus and/or heart wall of the valve to be treated. Each anchoring element has a support surface. At least one linking element includes a central branch and two curved side branches, one of which is designed to be engaged on the support surface of an anchoring element, while the other is designed to be engaged on the support surface of another anchoring element, the linking element then being designed to be pivoted to a position such that the anchoring elements interconnect and in which the ends of the central branch are located in the vicinity of the support surfaces.
US08262722B2 Endoprosthesis
An endoprosthesis, in particular an intraluminal endoprosthesis, for example a stent, having a base body composed at least partially of a metallic material, and having a functional element which is attached to the base body or imbedded therein and which contains material that is radiopaque and/or X-ray opaque and has a different material composition, at least in a portion of its volume, compared to the material of the base body. To avoid contact corrosion and undesired corrosion, the functional element is provided with a barrier layer which electrically insulates the radiopaque and/or X-ray opaque material from the base body.
US08262721B2 Drainage stent and associated method
A stent for facilitating flow between a branch of a bifurcated lumen and an interior region of the stent is provided. The stent includes proximal and distal ends and an interior region defined therethrough. The stent typically includes scaffolding having a cover applied thereto. The stent also includes at least one drainage region having at least one drainage hole defined between the scaffolding and through the cover such that fluid is capable of flowing through the drainage holes. The drainage region is typically offset from the proximal and/or distal end to facilitate fluid flow between the branch of the bifurcated lumen and the interior region of the stent.
US08262720B2 Prosthesis comprising dual tapered stent
The present invention is directed to a prosthesis for treating, repairing and/or replacing an abdominal aortic aneurysm. The prosthesis includes a stent having a first end and a second end with an intermediate section therebetween. The first end and seconds ends each include an anchor, wherein one or both anchor(s) has a diameter that is larger than the diameter of the intermediate section. The prosthesis also comprises graft material engaging at least a portion of the stent. The present invention is also directed to a prosthesis for repairing an aneurysm comprising a stent having a first end and a second wend with an intermediate section disposed therebetween. The first and second ends each include means for sealing the respective ends to a structure, wherein the intermediate section has a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the first or second end. Graft material engages at least a portion of the stent.
US08262717B2 Vestibular stimulation apparatus and associated methods of use
A device and associated method for providing vestibular stimulation to an individual includes active elements positioned on or proximate an ear insert. The active elements include but are not limited to at least one electrode, at least one thermometer, and at least one thermoelectric transducer. The device includes a computerized control module regulating the active elements. The device incorporates an ear insert that allows the active elements to engage the individual's ear canal and therefore access the individual's vestibular system. Vestibular stimulation applied to the individual is customized for directly stimulating desired regions of the brain for therapeutic or diagnostic purposes. In a preferred embodiment, the device provides vestibular stimulation sufficient to promote physiological changes in the individual, the changes selected from the group consisting of circadian temperature cycle time shifts, ascorbic acid production, serotonin production, acetylcholine production, histamine production, and heat shock protein production.
US08262716B2 Valved connector assembly and sterility barriers for heat exchange catheters and other closed loop catheters
A connector assembly for catheters having closed loop flow circuits, such as some balloon catheters and heat exchange catheters. The connector assembly comprises first and second connector bodies that may be connected and disconnected from one another. When the connector bodies are disconnected, a syringe or negative pressure source may be attached to withdraw residual fluid from the catheter's closed loop circuit and to deflate any expandable portion of the closed loop circuit (e.g., balloon or expandable heat exchanger). A one way flow valve prevents make up air or other fluid from entering the catheter while the negative pressure is being applied. Also disclosed are sterility barrier assemblies for all types of catheters. Such sterility barrier assemblies are operative to prevent contamination of the portion of a catheter that remains outside of a patient's body so that the catheter may subsequently be further advanced into the patient's body without introducing microbes or other contaminants into the patient's body.
US08262715B2 Medical device and method for temperature control and treatment of the eye and surrounding tissues via magnetic drug therapy
The invention provides a medical device having a thermostat for temperature measurement, irrigation/aspiration ports for fluid exchange and application of therapeutic modalities, a pressure manometer for pressure measurement, and an external system for control of temperature, pressure, and flow rate. When applied to the eye, eyelid and orbit, this device can be used in hypothermia or hyperthermia applications, the control of intraocular pressure (IOP), and the application of treatment modalities. Methods of using the device in treating patients suffering from central retinal artery occlusion, anterior optic nerve disease, pathology of the choroid and retina including the macula, inflammation of the eye including the vitreous and anterior segment, glaucoma, inflammation and/or infections of the anterior and/or posterior segment of the eye, treatment before/during/after surgery of the eye, and the application of treatment modalities including iontophoresis through a semi-permeable membrane are described.
US08262714B2 Techniques for selecting signal delivery sites and other parameters for treating depression and other neurological disorders, and associated systems and methods
The present disclosure is directed generally to techniques for selecting signal delivery sites and other signal delivery parameters for treating depression and other neurological disorders, and associated systems and methods. A method in accordance with a particular embodiment includes obtaining first imaging information corresponding to a first region of a patient's brain, the first imaging information being based at least in part on functional characteristics of the first region. The method further includes obtaining second imaging information corresponding to a second region of the patient's brain, the second region being a subset of the first region, the second imaging information being based at least in part on functional or structural characteristics of the second region. A target neural population is then selected based at least in part on the second imaging information. The method still further includes applying an electromagnetic signal to the target neural population to improve a patient function.
US08262713B2 Red light implant for treating osteoporosis
Red light implants for delivering red light to spinal implants to enhance osteointegration.
US08262710B2 Dynamic stabilization device for anterior lower lumbar vertebral fusion
A dynamic vertebral stabilization device for constraining motion of adjacent vertebrae is provided. The bone stabilization device comprises a first plate having a vertebral mating surface for positioning against a vertebrae, wherein the first plate defines a recess. The device further comprises a second plate having a vertebral mating surface for positioning against an adjacent vertebrae. The second plate includes a projection configured to travel in the recess of the first plate. The vertebral mating surface of the first plate is non-coplanar with respect to the vertebral mating surface of the second plate.
US08262706B2 Device for creating a bone implant
An osteonsynthesis implant has a plate-shaped base component having at least one hole, at least one axially extending rod-shaped tie rod having a first and a second end and at least one threaded component. The first end of the rod-shaped tie rod can be placed in the hole of the base component. The hole and the first end of the tie rod are formed such that the first end of the tie rod can be locked axially in the hole and is pivoted about an axis of the hole while locked to the plate. The second end of the tie rod is provided with a thread and the threaded component can be screwed onto the thread of the first tie rod. The tie rod can perform a pivoting movement of up to about 20° around the hole axis while locked in the plate hole.
US08262704B2 Receiving part for connecting a shank of a bone anchoring element to a rod and bone anchoring device with such a receiving part
A receiving part for connecting a shank of a bone anchoring element to a rod. The receiving part has a first end, a second end and a recess having a substantially U-shaped cross section. The recess extends from the first end in a direction of the second end forming two legs open at the first end. The recess defines a channel to receive the rod. The channel has a longitudinal axis. The legs have an inner thread to receive a securing element having an outer thread cooperating with the inner thread. The legs are provided with stiffening structures. In one embodiment, the stiffening structures are formed by the wall thickness of the outer edges of the legs being larger than the wall thickness of the legs at a location closest to the central axis of the receiving part.
US08262703B2 Medical device including member that deploys in a spiral-like configuration and method
A medial device including a handle portion, and a deployable member disposed in mechanical cooperation with the handle portion is disclosed. The deployable member includes a distal tip and a bend that is disposed adjacent the distal tip. The deployable member is extendable form the handle portion such that the distal tip extends in a spiral-like configuration in response to extension of the deployable member. The spiral-like configuration includes non-equivalent radii.
US08262701B2 Transconnector
A transconnector for use in interconnecting a pair of longitudinal spinal rods in a spinal fixation procedure. The transconnector includes a bridge member and first and second spinal rod engaging members. The bridge member may include first and second members, wherein the first and second members are moveably associated with one another so that the distance between the first and second spinal rod engaging members can be adjusted. The first and second spinal rod engaging members include a rod receiving channel for receiving one of the spinal rods therein. The spinal rod engaging members may be articulating in, for example, the yaw and roll positions or non articulating with respect to the bridge members. The spinal rod engaging members preferably include a spring, for example, a spring washer, to provide an opposing force so that the spinal rod engaging members can provisionally snap onto the spinal rods.
US08262700B2 Transverse spinal linking device and system
A transverse spinal linking device links at least one spinal osteosynthesis bar to a transverse bar. The device may include a first part that has a vertical axis and a first jaw, a second part that has a second jaw, and a clamping resource. The first part may include a sliding surface, which may be inclined in relation to the vertical axis, and which may mate with at least one sliding surface of the second part. The sliding surfaces may be configured so that the descent of the second part results in an approach of the jaws, with the clamping action of the clamping resource causing the fixing and/or the locking of the device on the osteosynthesis bar and the fixing and/or the locking of the transverse bar.
US08262699B2 Spinal prostheses
An article including a spinal prosthesis having a unitary body with at least three attachment points attachable to spinal structure, the unitary body including a flexure assembly positioned between first and second attachment members, wherein flexure of the flexure assembly permits movement of the first attachment member relative to the second attachment member.
US08262698B2 Expandable device for insertion between anatomical structures and a procedure utilizing same
An interspinous implant includes a spacer having an upwardly facing concave saddle and a downwardly facing concave saddle. The lateral sides of the implant are pulled inward to force the saddles vertically away from each other, thereby increasing the effective height of the implant. In one version, a strap extends circumferentially around the anterior and posterior surfaces of the spacer, such that tightening the strap causes the saddles to move away from each other. In another version, the spacer includes a first outwardly facing convex segment disposed on a first lateral side of the saddles and a second outwardly facing convex segment disposed on a second lateral side of the saddles. A rod extends between the first and second convex segments and is fixed to the first convex segment and movable relative to the second convex segment.
US08262696B2 Multilevel facet/laminar fixation system
In a spinal stabilization system a facet fixation device is interconnected to an anchor or fixation device driven into a portion of the spine. The facet fixation device has a proximal head and a distal fastener providing compression across a facet joint. A rigid or elastic member interconnects the proximal head of the facet fixation device to the anchor or fixation device, facilitating static or dynamic stabilization. The facet fixation device may extend directly across the facet joint, or a translaminar or laminar transverse process facet (LTPF) fixation device may be used. In the preferred embodiment the facet fixation device includes a distal tip which is self-cutting and tapping. The anchor may be a pedicle screw. The fixation device itself be a facet fixation device, and the facet fixation device may be connected to the anchor or fixation through two members joined with a coupling unit.
US08262693B2 Apparatus and methods for sealing a vascular puncture
Apparatus for sealing a puncture through tissue to a blood vessel includes a cartridge including a proximal end, a distal end sized for insertion into a puncture, and a lumen extending therebetween. A bioabsorbable plug is disposed within the lumen adjacent the distal end, and an anchoring element is disposed within the lumen proximal to the plug. A pusher member is disposed within the lumen for deploying the plug and anchoring element out the distal end of the cartridge. The plug may be formed from lyophilized hydrogel and the anchoring element may be formed from air-dried hydrogel, the anchoring element hydrating slower than the plug when exposed to an aqueous environment. During use, the plug and anchoring element are delivered into the puncture, the plug is cinched against the vessel wall. Protrusions on the anchoring element engage tissue surrounding the puncture to prevent proximal movement of the plug.
US08262692B2 Endovascular device
Embodiments of an endovascular device and of methods for treating an aneurysm therewith are described. In certain embodiments, an endovascular device includes a distal assembly coupled to a flow reducing member. In some embodiments, the distal assembly is composed of multiple engagement members that, when deployed within an aneurysm, engage an inner surface of the aneurysm. In certain embodiments, the engagements members are substantially parallel to a central axis of the distal assembly in a first position and shift away from the central axis to a second position, and the distal ends of some engagement members are substantially curled when in the second position. In certain embodiments, the flow-reducing member reduces blood flow from a blood vessel into the aneurysm. In certain embodiments the flow reducing member includes a membrane, which can include a porous section.
US08262690B2 Wire and lock mechanism
Methods and devices for delivering and/or retrieving a filter fixed to a guidewire disposed within a blood vessel are disclosed. A system in accordance with the present invention comprises, an outer shaft having a proximal end, distal end and a wall defining an outer shaft lumen. The system also includes a stop mechanism disposed within the outer shaft lumen. The stop mechanism is preferably configured such that relative axial movement between the guidewire and the outer shaft may be selectively precluded.
US08262687B2 Stent holding member and stent feeding system
A stent holding member used in a stent delivery system adapted to implant a stent of a cylindrical configuration, designed to be embedded in a living body, to a desired site of implantation in a vessel of the living body. The stent holding member includes a tubular holding member formed of an elastic material. The holder has a groove in its outer peripheral portion for holding one or more supporting struts making up the stent. Each of these supporting struts is embedded at least partially in the groove to hold the stent. The groove has its opening end side expanded by expansion of the holder along the radial direction. By expansion of the opened end of the groove, the stent held in the groove is dilated and released from the holder.
US08262686B2 Embolization device and a method of using the same
Non-expandable space-occupying devices for treating voids within the body are disclosed. The devices can have multiple non-expandable space-occupying elements connected to a flexible leader. Methods of making and using the devices are also disclosed.
US08262685B2 Disposable lancing device
A disposable lancing device including: a housing; a spring member; a lancet having a skin puncture needle, the spring member and the lancet being housed within the housing such that a needle tip of the skin puncture needle is adapted to be projected out from the housing under urging of the lancet by the spring member to perform skin puncture procedure; and a protective cap having a needle passage hole and covering the needle tip of the skin puncture needle, the protective cap being adapted to separate from the skin puncture needle and rotate so that the needle passage hole of the protective cap is positioned on a path of projection of the skin puncture needle, and the skin puncture procedure is performed with the protective cap supported on the housing.
US08262684B2 Lancet system with a sterile protector
The present invention provides a lancet system having a lancet tip protected by a sterile protector. The sterile protector includes a weakened portion near the tip end of the protector, which, during a puncturing operation, separates or tears in order to release the lancet tip. Other embodiments of the present invention include a pricking aid and/or lancet system provided as a magazine for holding a plurality of lancets. Each lancet of the plurality has a sterile protector as described above.
US08262683B2 Micro-resecting and evoked potential monitoring system and method
Surgical micro-resecting and evoked potential monitoring system and method. The system includes a micro-resecting instrument, handpiece, and evoked potential monitor. The instrument includes an outer tube forming a cutting window at which a cutting tip of an inner member is located. A hub assembly rotatably maintains the inner and outer members. An electrically non-conductive material covers a region of the outer tube, and wiring is connected to an exposed surface of the outer tube. The instrument defines a probe surface proximate the cutting window as part of an electrical pathway with the wiring. The hub assembly is powered by the handpiece, and the wiring is connected to the evoked potential monitor. Evoked potential monitoring is performed at the probe surface via stimulation energy delivered along the electrical pathway, and tissue/bone resection occurs with rotation of the cutting tip.
US08262682B2 Nucleus chopper and splitter
A surgical instrument which both incises and splits the nucleus of a lens has a pair of spring steel segments slidably received in a metallic tube. Each segment terminates in a tip. As the spring steel segments are drawn into the tube the tips come together to form a cutting edge useful for incising the lens. When the segments are extended from the tube the tips separate, forcing the incision open until the lens is split.
US08262678B2 Clip package for clip application apparatus
A multiple hemostatic clip application apparatus operates for tissue clamping in combination with an endoscope. For use with the clip application apparatus, a clip package is provided, and has a multiple clip assembly, which includes a clip device, and a fastening mechanism, disposed at a proximal end of the clip device, for fastening to a shaft head of an operating wire inserted through a flexible sheath of the clip application apparatus. A coupling device includes a casing for containing the multiple clip assembly in a manner movable from the fastening mechanism toward the flexible sheath, and a guide slider for pressing the shaft head toward the fastening mechanism, for fastening together. The fastening mechanism emerges from the casing, the shaft head being overlapped on the fastening mechanism in an axial direction of the multiple clip assembly.
US08262674B2 Burr hole caps and methods of use
In one embodiment, an apparatus comprises: a base structure adapted to be inserted within the burr hole; a lead securing member for securing the lead, the lead securing member comprising a first arm structure and a second arm structure, at least one spring loaded structure adapted to exert a force to bring the first arm structure and the second arm structure together; and a positioning tool having a distal end adapted to be inserted within the lead securing member. When the positioning tool is positioned within the lead securing member, the distal end holds the first and second arm structures a sufficient distance apart to receive a lead between the first and second arm structures; wherein the positioning tool comprises a control structure at a proximal end that, when engaged, causes the distal end of the positioning tool to be released from between the first and second arm structures.
US08262673B2 Amniotomy device and assembly
An amniotomy device includes a shaft having a rupture crown disposed along a distal end portion of the shaft. The rupture crown includes a distal end defined by at least two leading bite wings and a recess formed in the distal end of the rupture crown between the leading bite wings. The leading bite wings are configured to engage amniotic membrane when the shaft is rotated and rupture the amniotic membrane.
US08262667B1 Multi-diameter implant forceps
In one embodiment, a surgical instrument is provided for grasping spherical implants. The surgical instrument includes a first lever arm having distal and proximate ends, as well as a second lever arm having distal and proximate ends. A first concave grasping cup is disposed at the distal end of the first lever arm. A second concave grasping cup is disposed at the distal end of the second lever arm. The first grasping cup and the second grasping cup are of differing sizes to enable the instrument to securely grasp spherical implants of a plurality of differing sizes.
US08262666B2 Implantable distractor
A spinal implant for stabilizing two adjacent vertebrae having a damaged disc therebetween is assembled in situ. An elongated tool is used to insert a flat U-shaped distractor in the disc space through a low profile incision with both legs of the U-shaped distractor contacting both end plates of the adjacent vertebrae. The tool is rotated 90 degrees rotating the distractor 90 degrees so that each leg of the distractor contacts one end plate of the adjacent vertebrae, respectively, to restore intervertebral space. An elliptical bone tray is slid along the tool to seat within the U-shaped distractor. The tool is removed and a retainer replaces it to lock the bone tray and the distractor together. A screw is used to lock the bone tray to the distraction device, the screw slides down the cannula which is the tool inserted over the rod that the distraction implant is attached to.
US08262665B2 Surgical guide for use during sinus elevation surgery utilizing the caldwell-luc osteotomy
The present invention discloses a surgical guide and accompanying depth bur with a method for its use during sinus elevation surgery utilizing the Caldwell-Luc Osteotomy procedure. The surgical guide of the present invention provides accurate transfer of the parameters of the surgical osteotomy to be performed during sinus elevation surgery. It bridges the gap between the precise information obtained from the CT scan and the surgical field on which this surgical plan must be placed. This is accomplished by the use of the surgical guide which is constructed based on the information in the CT scan and the treatment plan prepared utilizing 3-D imaging software.
US08262664B2 Methods for performing a tibial tubercle osteotomy
A method of performing a tibial tubercle osteotomy includes cutting a bone portion of a tibial tubercle from a remaining portion of the tibial tubercle, at least a portion of a patella ligament being attached to the bone portion. The bone portion of the tibial tubercle is separated from the remaining portion of the tibial tubercle such that the patella ligament remains attached to the bone portion. After completing a surgical procedure, the separated bone portion of the tibial tubercle is reattached to the remaining portion of the tibial tubercle.
US08262660B2 Serratome vertebral cortical endplate cutter
The invention relates to spinal fusion implants or grafts and to apparatus for the installation thereof. More specifically, the invention is a serrated cutting or abrading tool designed to be pushed into an intervertebral space and thereby remove and partially penetrate the cortical bone layer that defines the endplates of the respective mutually adjacent vertebral bodies.
US08262659B2 Translatable carriage fixation system
Translational bone fixation assemblies, kits containing such assemblies, and methods of use are described herein. The described assemblies may be used in spinal fusion procedures in which a damaged or diseased disc (or part of a disc) is removed from between a pair of vertebrae and a spinal fusion spacer is placed between the vertebrae. The assemblies may be applied to an anterior portion of the affected vertebrae to span the affected disc space, and may be fixed to the vertebrae using bone screws. The assemblies may function to maintain the vertebrae aligned during the initial period following fixation in which fusion of the spacer to the adjacent vertebrae occurs. The assemblies may also function to share some of the axial spinal load applied to the fusion spacer to prevent extreme subsidence of the spacer into the vertebral body, such as where the patient has poor bone quality.
US08262656B2 External fixation device for fractures
An external fixation device for the setting and corrective treatment of bone fractures is disclosed. The device comprises a splint member having a first and a second axially slidable and mutually fastenable base portions for adjusting the length of the splint member and a plurality of bone pins. Each of the base portions of the splint member includes mountings for the bone pins to traverse the site of the bone fracture in a multi-angle and multi-planar pin configuration, so as to permit direct fixation of the fracture and provide a significant degree of stability.
US08262653B2 Irrigated catheter having a porous tip electrode
A porous tip electrode catheter is provided. The porous tip electrode comprises a porous material through which fluid can pass. The porous tip electrode is covered with a thin coating of conductive metal having openings through which fluids can pass.
US08262639B2 Irreversible flow control clamp
The present disclosure relates to clamps for controlling the flow of liquid through a fluid circuit. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to flow control clamps that can be substantially irreversibly secured in a closed position, thereby discouraging reopening of the flow path of the tube.
US08262638B2 Diaper and absorbent article
A diaper for holding an absorbent article in close bodily contact in the crotch region of the wearer. The diaper comprises a front region, a crotch region having a specified Crotch Holding Force, and a rear region. The crotch region of the diaper typically is elastically extensible in both the longitudinal and lateral directions. The diaper provides an upward holding force against the absorbent article in the crotch region to hold the article in close bodily contact. A system comprising the diaper and an absorbent article for use therewith, and a method for holding such an article in close bodily contact by wearing the diaper, is also disclosed.
US08262637B2 Fastening tape for a hygiene item, diaper,method of closing a diaper, tape material and winding of a tape material
A fastening tape for a hygiene item with a targeted design of a mechanical closing area and a closing area of the tape that is closable by means of an adhesive is extremely versatile and also allows very inexpensive production.
US08262636B2 Disposable absorbent article with donning tab
An absorbent article includes front and back side panels, wherein each side panel has an attachment edge and a free edge, the front and back side panels being one of permanently attached and releasably fastenable to define a wear configuration of the absorbent article. The article also includes a finger tab system including a finger tab having first and second ends and a distal point, the first end of the finger tab being attached to the free edge of one of the front and back side panels, and a tab line where the finger tab intersects the free edge of the one of the front and back side panels, wherein the finger tab system includes an aperture disposed between the distal point of the finger tab and the tab line.
US08262635B2 Reusable diapers
A reusable diaper may include an inner layer and an outer layer. A fluid-absorbing insert may be coupled to the inner layer for use in absorbing fluids. The inner layer may be disposed generally between the outer layer and the fluid-absorbing insert such that both the fluid-absorbing insert and the inner layer are in position for absorbing fluids. The fluid-absorbing insert may be adjustable relative to the inner layer for accommodating use by a male and/or a female. The reusable diaper may also include forward and rearward waist portions generally defined by the inner and outer layers. Liquid-resistant regions may be disposed adjacent the waist portions, generally between the waist portions and the fluid-absorbing insert, for resisting movement of fluid from the fluid-absorbing insert to the waist portions.
US08262633B2 Absorbent article having a multi-component visual signal
An absorbent article having a central colored region, an intermediate colored region, an outer colored region, and a background region. The intermediate colored region can be between the central colored region and the outer colored region. The intermediate colored region can substantially circumscribe the central colored region. The central colored region, intermediate colored region, and outer colored region differ in color from the background region.
US08262632B2 Female urinary catheterization device
Disclosed is a catheter guide for female self-catheterization to assist in guiding a catheter into the user's urethra. The catheter guide includes a hand-held guide with a vaginal insert portion joined to a handle at a fixed or an adjustable angle. There is an enclosed or open canal in the vaginal insert portion which can be aligned with the urethra, when the insert portion is in the vagina, and through which a catheter can be guided into the urinary tract.
US08262630B2 Vascular access port with integral attachment mechanism
An implantable port with an integral attachment mechanism. The implantable port includes one or more suture needles enclosed within a port body, the suture needle(s) coupled to a movable member such that movement of the movable member results in movement of the suture needle(s) out of the port body and into the tissue of a body into which it is implanted. The movable member can be a cam or tensioning member that rotates about a central port axis. The movable member can be coupled to a gear to permit movement of the movable member following implantation of the port within a subcutaneous pocket.
US08262629B2 Catheter port
The invention relates to a catheter port for supplying an active substance to an active site which is distant from the port. According to the invention, the housing (1) of the port is designed to have two parts, an upper housing part (7) and a lower housing part (6). The upper housing part (7) holds an insertion part (10) in a clamping manner in a housing recess (8) of the lower housing part (6), wherein a chamber (11) is arranged in said insertion part for receiving the active substance with the interpositioning of a punctured membrane (17) that can be pierced with an injection cannula. While the insertion part (10) and the chamber (11) can be manufactured from a material resistant to the active substance, preferably a heavier ceramics, the upper and lower housing parts may consist of a lighter biocompatible plastic material. It is advantageous that the patient only comes into contact with the upper and lower housing parts made of a biocompatible plastic material and not with the insertion part.
US08262628B2 Medical connector with closeable male luer
A luer connector comprising a housing with a hollow bore having first and second ends. The hollow bore also has a male luer tip and a tapering interior surface. The luer connector also comprises a rigid valve member configured to at least partially extend through the housing. The valve member has a first opened end and a second closed end. The valve member also comprises a passageway within the valve member and an outwardly extending flange near the second end adapted to seal the hollow bore at the second end of the housing when placed in contact with a tapering interior surface of the housing. The valve member further comprises at least one opening near the closed end of the valve member extending outward from the passageway through the valve member and at least one strut attached to the valve member. At least a portion of the strut extends substantially parallel to the central axis of the valve member. The luer connector also comprises a retaining member configured to couple the valve member and the housing and a sealing element disposed within the housing. The sealing element is configured to inhibit fluid communication through the hollow bore of the housing between the interior of the male luer tip of the housing and the first end of the housing.
US08262626B2 Apparatus and method for treating tissue
An apparatus for treating tissue of a mammalian body. In one embodiment, a spring mechanism is carried by first and second tubular members and actuatable for moving a needle from a first position disposed within the distal extremity of the first tubular member to a second position extending distally of the first tubular member. In another embodiment, a nozzle is coupled to the distal extremity of an elongate tubular member for delivering a material into tissue of the mammalian body. In a further embodiment, a flexible elongate member provided with a recess is introduced into a cavity of the body to capture tissue in the recess and electrical energy is applied to such tissue in the recess so as to change the compliance of the tissue.
US08262622B2 Surgical gel seal
A surgical valve includes a housing with a proximal housing portion and a distal housing portion cooperating to define a gel cavity. A seal material is disposed in the gel cavity and includes a gel having flow characteristics and incompressible characteristics. A distal guide tube is provided to facilitate retrograde insertion of a surgical instrument into the seal material. During assembly, pressure is applied by the housing portions to the seal material in order to form a circumferential seal and to close an instrument channel. Manufacture can be facilitated by use of a mandrel for maintaining the structural elements in axial alignment. Complimentary screw threads disposed between the first and second housing portions can be used to pressurize the gel and thereby create a locking force on an inserted instrument. Detented tabs can be provided to facilitate control of this locking force.
US08262618B2 System consisting of an insertion head and an inserter
A system for positioning and inserting insertion means into tissue includes an insertion head and an inserter. The insertion head includes a base with a lower side positionable on tissue; and an insertion means movably mounted by the base, which is movable from a protective position where a free end of the insertion means is short of the lower side, into an insertion position where the free end protrudes beyond the lower side of the base. The inserter includes an inserter casing having a lower side with an opening for the insertion head; a holding means, coupled to the inserter casing for holding the insertion head in an initial position; a drive configured to move the insertion head out of the initial position in an advancing direction; and an activating member movable relative to the holding means and operable such that the insertion means is moved into the insertion position.
US08262616B2 Infusion pump assembly
An infusion pump assembly is disclosed. The infusion pump assembly includes a locking tab and a pump barrel inside a pump barrel housing, where the pump barrel accommodates a reservoir assembly. The reservoir assembly includes a reservoir and a plunger rod. The infusion pump assembly also includes a locking disc at a terminus of the pump barrel. The locking disc includes a clearance hole for the plunger rod. The locking disc also includes at least one locking tab notch in close proximity with the locking tab. The locking tab is in moveable engagement with the locking tab notch, and the reservoir moves the locking tab from a locked position to an unlocked position when the plunger rod is inserted through clearance hole. The locking disc rotates upon torque being applied to the reservoir assembly, the locking disc rotating from a non-loaded position to a loaded position with respect to the plunger rod and a drive screw.
US08262615B2 Device for injecting a liquid into a body of a patient
The invention relates to a device (10) for injecting a liquid into a body, in particular that of a patient, of the type that comprises: a base (20) bearing an injection needle (22) that is to be inserted into the body; an injection conduit (24) connected to the needle (22); means (26) for extracting the needle (22) from the patient, including a plunger (52) mounted such that it can slide in relation to the base (20) between a needle (22) use position and a needle (22) extraction position; and means (28) for generating excess pressure in the injection conduit (24) as the needle (22) is extracted, including a flexible section (53) formed in the injection conduit (24), a cam surface (54) rigidly connected to the plunger (52), and a supporting surface rigidly connected to the base (20), in order to compress said flexible section (53) between the cam surface (54) and the supporting surface radially and perpendicularly to the needle (22) as the plunger (52) slides towards the needle (22) extraction position. The invention is characterized in that it includes means (56) for retaining the flexible section (53) substantially perpendicular to the needle (22).
US08262613B2 Localized delivery of drug agents
Medical devices including a substrate that are expandable from a compressed state to an expanded state; a coating on the substrate, the coating having a drug agent incorporated therein; and a sheath over the coating. The sheath is expandable from a compressed state to an expanded state and has at least one perforation therein. The medical devices are configured such that when the substrate is in a compressed state, the sheath is also in a compressed state and the perforation is substantially closed. When the substrate is in an expanded state, the sheath is also in an expanded state and the perforation is substantially open. The invention also includes a method of using the medical devices for the controlled, localized delivery of a drug agent to a target location within a mammalian body.
US08262612B1 Apparatus to prevent reperfusion injury
Embodiments of a method and apparatus to prevent reperfusion injury. In one embodiment, blood flow proximal to a lesion is occluded. An infusion catheter is advanced to a region distal to the lesion and an anti-reperfusion injury drug is delivered. The lesion may then be treated with a dilating device to reintroduce blood flow to the region distal to the lesion.
US08262607B2 Liquid embolic composition delivery devices and methods
Devices and methods are provided for delivering fluid components of an embolic mass into a body cavity. A connector, which includes a receiving element, a first port, and a second port, is provided for securing an outer tubular element and an inner tubular element such that the outer tubular element coaxially surrounds the inner tubular element. The first port is in fluid communication with the lumen of the outer tubular element when the outer tubular element is secured to the receiving element; and the second port is in fluid communication with the lumen of the inner tubular element when the inner tubular element is secured to the connector. First and second fluid components of an embolic composition are delivered into the first and second ports of the connector and through the lumens of the outer and inner tubular elements for occlusion of the body cavity.
US08262606B2 Breastpump with stimulation and method
Breastpumps and methods for use in extracting breastmilk, which can be used to generate, among other things, both a letdown or stimulation phase and a milk expression phase, are disclosed.
US08262605B2 Needleless delivery systems
Described are devices and methods related to the needleless injection of fluid into tissue of the lower urinary tract, such as the urethra and prostate.
US08262603B2 Surgical fluid management
A fluid flow device includes a housing configured to releasably mate with a surgical control unit for controlling fluid flow during a surgical procedure. First and second ports measure fluid pressure within a fluid path provided within the housing. The fluid flow device includes a restrictor for restricting fluid flow at a restriction location along the fluid path. The first port is located upstream of the restriction location and the second port is located downstream of the restriction location. A fluid pump is provided within the housing.
US08262602B2 Remote exchange peritoneal dialysis
A portable, flexible peritoneal dialysis system is disclosed. The system includes a flexible harness, such as canvas or cloth, to mount a stiff housing with a heater for holding and heating fresh dialysis fluid. The harness includes straps or other suspending devices for holding a second, flexible housing for a drain bag for holding sent dialysis fluid. The upper portion of the system includes a hook and a load cell for suspending the remaining portions. The load cell is used to measure the weight of the apparatus. By keeping track of the weight and the changes, the quantity of fluid removed from the patient, spent dialysate, is tracked, as is fresh dialysate infused into the patient. An electronics or control portion controls heating of the fresh dialysate, and operation of pumps and valves for moving the dialysate. This portion also includes alarms and communications equipment.
US08262600B2 Device for carrying out nail corrections
A device for carrying out nail corrections, in particular in ingrown nails which are too severely curved, comprises at least one plastics material strip extending in a longitudinal direction. The plastics material strip is rubbery-elastic and longitudinally elastic. At each longitudinal end, it has a hook for engaging around and underneath the nail edge of the toenail to be corrected. The plastics material strip is expandable and, with the hook hooked in, can be adapted with respect to its length to a nail width of the nail to be corrected, so a restoring force due to elasticity brings about an upward force automatically adapted to a degree of curvature of the nail to be corrected.
US08262594B2 Reinforced support device
This invention relates to a reinforced support device suitable for the protection of a body part against overextension. In particular, this invention relates to a device comprising at least one reinforcement spine used to protect a body part against overextension and a plate disposed below a portion of the spine used to provide additional support and comfort. The reinforcement spine can flex in direction of the body part's natural movement and is substantially inflexible in the direction of overextension. Together, the reinforcement spine and plate prevent overextension of the protected body part and disperse the incident forces by transferring those forces from the reinforcement spine to the plate.
US08262590B2 Gait/balance analyzer
An apparatus for analyzing gait and balance to determine visual spatial distortion including a treadmill having a movable tread, at least a weight bearing sensor for measuring weight bearing pressure in right, left, front and rear directions provided under said tread and an analyzer for analyzing lean coupled to output of said weight bearing sensor.
US08262589B2 Guide wire for use with a catheter
A guide wire (1) for use with a catheter for accessing a remote site in the venal or other system of the body of a human or animal subject comprises a core wire (2) extending from a proximal end (5) to a distal end (6). The core wire (2) terminates at the distal end (6) in a distal portion (16) which is of rectangular transverse cross-section defining a pair of opposite major surfaces (18,19) and minor surfaces (20,21). The distal portion (16) also defines a central major plane (24) which lies between the major surfaces (18,19) and bisects the minor surfaces (20,21), and a central minor plane (25) which lies between the minor surfaces (20,21) and bisects the major surfaces (18,19). An alignment portion (27) for aligning the distal end (6) with a branched vessel of the vascular system is formed in the distal portion (16) by bending the distal portion (16) in the central major plane 24 to form a curved portion (28) from which the alignment portion (27) extends, the curved portion 28 and the alignment portion 27 lying in the central minor plane 24. By bending the distal portion (16) in its central major plane, the column strength of the guide wire (1) is such as to minimize the danger of buckling of the distal portion in the central minor plane (25).
US08262588B2 Medical guidewire
Provided is a guidewire including a core shaft, an outer flexible tube, and an inner flexible tube that surrounds a distal end portion of the core shaft. The inner flexible tube is disposed in the outer flexible tube so that a distal end thereof is positioned between the distal end of the core shaft and a proximal end of the core shaft so as to be separated from the core shaft. A first joint is formed so as to join the distal end of the inner flexible tube to the core shaft. At least one second joint is formed so as to join the outer flexible tube to the inner flexible tube. The at least one second joint is positioned between the first joint and the proximal end of the core shaft.
US08262585B2 Single-insertion, multiple sampling biopsy device with linear drive
The present invention provides for exemplary embodiments of a single-insertion, multiple sampling biopsy device. Exemplary embodiments of a single-insertion, multiple sampling device with integrated marker release.
US08262583B1 Incentive spirometry devices by the employment of verbal simulated humanlike voices and using a tilt sensing component for ensuring patient actual use of the improved incentive spirometry devices
An apparatus used in the medical industry, in order to increase transpulmonary pressure and respiratory volumes, to improve inspiratory muscle performance and re-establish the normal pulmonary hyperinflation, through the employment of electronic technology, providing audible, simulated, verbal, human sounding words, that assist, guide and prompt, increasing patient usage. In one embodiment, the Incentive Spirometer uses a capacitive sensing circuit for sensing movement of the float within the tube wall and for obtaining a measurement or reading of the patient's performance with the Incentive Spirometer. A tilt switch can also be included to prevent a patient from turning the Incentive Spirometer upside down.
US08262582B2 Extraction of heart inter beat interval from multichannel measurements
A monitoring apparatus comprising a multichannel pressure sensing sensor for measuring a ballistocardiographic signal of a human body is provided. The monitoring apparatus comprises a manner for selecting a time window for heart inter beat interval including two consecutive heart beats to be estimated, defining a spectrum for the signal averaging between at least two measurement channels of the sensor, a cepstrum from the logarithm of the spectrum, and a heart inter beat interval. A method for defining a heart inter beat interval is also provided, where a ballistocardiographic signal of a body is measured with a multichannel pressure sensing sensor, a time window for heart inter beat interval including two consecutive heart beats to be estimated is selected, a spectrum for the signal averaging between at least two measurement channels of the sensor, a cepstrum from the logarithm of the spectrum, and a heart inter beat interval are defined.
US08262578B1 System and method for detecting physiologic states based on intracardiac electrogram signals while distinguishing cardiac rhythm types
Techniques are provided for tracking patient respiration or other physiologic states based upon intracardiac electrogram (IEGM) signals. In one example, respiration patterns are detected based upon cycle-to-cycle changes in morphological features associated with individual cardiac cycles while taking into account different cardiac rhythm types within the patient, such as predominantly paced or predominantly intrinsic rhythm types. Once respiration patterns have been identified, episodes of abnormal respiration, such as apnea, hyperpnea, nocturnal asthma, or the like, may be detected and therapy automatically delivered. In addition, techniques for detecting abnormal respiration using a pattern classifier are described, wherein the pattern classifier is trained while distinguishing the different cardiac rhythm types of the patient.
US08262563B2 Endoscopic translumenal articulatable steerable overtube
An apparatus having an elongate hollow metal body extending along a longitudinal axis is disclosed. The hollow body defines a central opening and has a predetermined wall thickness. A pattern of laser cut slits is formed into the body. The slits define a plurality of articulatable elements. The plurality of articulatable elements enable active articulation of the body in a first plane and passive deflection in planes orthogonal to the first plane.
US08262560B2 Imaging device for use with a surgical device
A surgical imaging device is provided, including a housing configured to couple to an outer surface of a surgical device and an image capture arrangement configured to generate image data; the surgical imaging device may also include a circuit arrangement disposed within the housing and electrically coupled to the camera arrangement, in which the circuit arrangement is configured to communicate the image data to at least one remote device.
US08262556B2 Magnetic pulsing system for inducing electric currents in a human body
Disclosed is a means and method for the treatment of migraine headaches and other disorders of the human body by the application of one or more intense magnetic pulses. By placing an intense magnetic field pulse(s) onto a certain region of the brain, an electrical current can be generated in the cerebral cortex that can stop a migraine headache in some patients or at least decrease its severity. The device to perform this function can be called a “magnetic pulser system.” This system can be made in one piece and powered by plugging into a household or automobile receptacle or from a battery. The pulser system uses capacitors that are first charged to a high voltage and then discharged into a coil that creates the intense magnetic pulse. Both visual and auditory signals can be provided by the pulser system to assist the patient in using the device.
US08262546B1 Inertial weight for physical conditioning
An inertial weight for physical conditioning includes a hollow housing having an inner cavity with first and second spaced apart opposed ends and defining a longitudinal axis extending therebetween. The inner cavity tapers transversely outwardly along the longitudinal axis from a mid section to each of the first and second spaced apart opposed ends. A viscous fluid mass is carried in the inner cavity, the viscous mass filling the inner cavity less than full to allow the viscous mass to move within the inner cavity. An attachment member is affixed to at last one of the opposed ends.
US08262544B1 Exercise device
A forward component has a frusto-conical forward section terminating in a recess and a cylindrical rearward section terminating with male screw threads. A rearward component has a cylindrical forward section terminating with female threads and a rearward section with a cylindrical recess. A support, removably positioned within the forward and rearward components, has a frusto-conical leading region, an intermediate region, and a cylindrical trailing region. A plurality of annular weights with cylindrical apertures are positioned on the trailing region of the support.
US08262542B2 Strengthening device for leg muscles
The present invention relates to a device for strengthening leg muscles having a substantially flat support surface, an external work surface, a front, a back and two flanks, the strengthening device further comprising at least one relief portion proximal to said back and distal from said front.
US08262541B2 Rehabilitation/exercise machine and system using muscle feedback
There is provided a machine for rehabilitation or exercise, comprising: a frame; a first arm movably secured to the frame via a first actuator; a first force sensor for measuring a force exerted by a user on the first arm; and a control unit adapted for controlling a displacement speed for the first arm via the first actuator as a function of the force and for increasing the displacement speed of the first arm via the first actuator when the force is superior to a target force. In one embodiment, there is further provided an electromyograph for location on the exercised muscle for measuring an electrical potential generated by the muscle and for lowering the target force when the electrical potential is superior to a predetermined maximum electrical potential. There is further provided a system for exercising a muscle.
US08262536B2 Continuously variable transmission
Inventive embodiments are directed to components, subassemblies, systems, and/or methods for continuously variable transmissions (CVT). In one embodiment, a main axle is adapted to receive a shift rod that cooperates with a shift rod nut to actuate a ratio change in a CVT. In another embodiment, an axial force generating mechanism can include a torsion spring, a traction ring adapted to receive the torsion spring, and a roller cage retainer configured to cooperate with the traction ring to house the torsion spring. Various inventive idler-and-shift-cam assemblies can be used to facilitate shifting the ratio of a CVT. Embodiments of a hub shell and a hub cover are adapted to house components of a CVT and, in some embodiments, to cooperate with other components of the CVT to support operation and/or functionality of the CVT. Among other things, shift control interfaces and braking features for a CVT are disclosed.
US08262533B2 Transmission
The invention provides a transmission providing a gear ratio between an input shaft and an output shaft. The transmission comprises an annulus ring, a sun wheel being rotatable around a central axis of the transmission, a planet carrier being rotatable around the central axis of the transmission, and a set of planet wheels, each wheel comprising a plurality of wheel segments with different diameters, the planet wheels being fixed in rotational bearings of the planet carrier and being arranged to rotate epicyclically around the central axis. The annulus ring and the sun wheel each interacts with one of the wheel segments e.g. via meshing toothed gear wheels. The gear facilitates various interaction means at different locations in the gear, and thus facilitates a potentially less noisy, lighter, smaller or stronger gear by use of a low amount of components.
US08262531B2 Actuator with differential and brake
An actuator (100) includes a differential (105), the differential comprising a gear train comprising a first leg (106a) and a second leg (106b); a motor (101) configured to power a rotating ball screw (104) through the first leg (106a) of the differential (105); and a brake (103) connected to the second leg (106b) of the differential (105), the brake (103) having a holding force, such that in the event a torque in the differential (105) exceeds the holding force, the brake (103) is configured to dissipate the torque in the differential (105).
US08262529B2 Continuously variable transmission and operating method therefor
The invention relates to a continuously variable transmission (1) comprising a driven rotary part (2), a chassis (4) or housing, and a driving rotary part (3). The invention also relates to an associated operating method whereby the driven rotary part (2) or the chassis (4) or housing is coupled to a first guide or drive module (5,5′). A second guide module (14) is also provided, the two guide or drive modules (5,5′, 14) being connected to a chassis (4) or housing of the transmission (1) or an adjacent machine or installation part, such that the second guide module (14) can be displaced in relation to the first guide or drive module (5, 5′). Furthermore, the two guide or drive modules (5,5′, 14) are coupled to each other by means of at least two mechanisms, each consisting respectively of a first coupling module (7a-7d) and a second coupling module (8a-8d) which are mounted (9a-9d) or guided against each other and/or can mesh with each other. A transport displacement of the deflection angle co of the rotary displacement of the first or second coupling module (7a-7d, 8a-8d) in question is cyclically transferred to another rotary part (18), and the rotary axes of the rotary connections of a free wheel (16a-16d) are aligned.
US08262526B2 Automatic transmission gear and clutch arrangement
A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque-transmitting devices. Further, a hydraulic fluid control circuit is provided for controlling the operation of the plurality of torque-transmitting devices. The hydraulic fluid control circuit receives pressurized hydraulic fluid from an off-axis hydraulic fluid pump and has a plurality of fluid passages disposed in the transmission house, input member and other coupling members.
US08262523B2 V-ribbed belt with improved noise properties
V-ribbed belts are formed by thermoplastic shaping and contain ribs that run at least on a first side in a longitudinal direction of the V-ribbed belt. The first side contains a layer composed of a textile warp-knit fabric made up of two different yarns. The warp-knit fabric is constructed from a first yarn composed of filaments with a module of more than 5N/1000 dtex, and a second yarn composed of filaments with a module of less than 2 cN/1000 dtex, both based on 5% extension. The first and second yarns form a coherent network and the yarns do not twine around one another. V-ribbed belts can be formed using an elastic warp-knit fabric, whose extension is based on the construction of the knitted fabrics. The belts maintain better noise reduction both in the new state and after a relatively long service life.
US08262522B2 Power transmission belt
The invention relates to a ribbed power transmission belt exhibiting a toothing made of elastomer based on ethylene/α-olefin elastomer, characterized in that at least the sides of the toothing are coated with a film made of at least partially crosslinked thermoplastic comprising at least 30% of at least one low-density polyethylene having a molecular weight of between 50 000 and 200 000 g/mol.The invention also relates to a manufacturing process which makes use of the application of a said thermoplastic film in the noncrosslinked or at least partially crosslinked state.
US08262514B2 Football tee with multiple ball supporting modes
A tee includes a ball receiving recess shaped like the outer surface of the tip of a football so that the bottom portion of that tip may be supported within the recess. The recess is discontinuous consisting of two laterally opposed recess portions with a rearwardly facing opening and forward ribs. The opening permits the kicker to see the entirety of the football down to the tip. Textured surfaces are provided that extend forward to a downwardly depending shoulder. The textured surfaces are devised so that a football can be supported horizontally on the textured surfaces for squib kicks. The facing terminations of the recess portions are sized and configured to allow a football to be leaned against the tee engaging those terminations to allow the ball to be supported with its tip on a ground surface for onside kicks.
US08262511B2 Multi-layer core golf ball
Golf balls consisting of a multi-layer core and a cover are disclosed. The multi-layer core comprises a soft thermoset rubber center, a stiff thermoplastic intermediate core layer, and a thin thermoset rubber outer core layer. The maximum hardness of the core is a point or region located at a distance of from 0.1 mm to 8.0 mm measured radially inward from the outer surface of the core. The maximum core hardness is preferably at least 10% greater than the outer surface hardness of the core.
US08262507B1 Golf club head with vertical center of gravity adjustment
Golf club heads include at least one weight port situated to retain weights and positioned above an approximate club face geometric center with the club in a standard address position. One, two, or more weight ports can be located above the club face center in a club crown or other portion of a club body. Club head vertical center of gravity can be selected to compensate dynamic loft associated with locating the club head center of gravity well behind the club face. Three-dimensional adjustment of club head center of gravity is possible.
US08262505B2 Golf club head having a bridge member and a damping element
A cavity back golf club head having a bridge member and a damping element is disclosed. The bridge member extends across a first rear cavity connecting a heel and a toe of the golf club head to control the trajectory of a golf ball. For the longer iron clubs, a damping element extends from the sole portion of the cavity back golf club head to the bridge member to define a second cavity to further influence the trajectory of the golf ball. For the shorter iron clubs, the damping element extends from the top portion of the cavity back golf club head to the bridge member. The damping element may reduce the vibration and sound of the golf club head upon impact with a golf ball.
US08262503B2 Golf club head
A hollow golf club head includes a sole, a crown, a skirt, and a striking face. The golf club includes a junction interconnecting the sole, crown, and skirt to the striking face, the junction including at least one stiffening member.
US08262500B2 Golf club shaft and golf club using the same
A golf club shaft formed by winding prepregs made of uncured thermosetting resin into a tapered shape and curing the prepregs thermally, the prepregs include a first woven fabric prepreg which is made of one of a triaxial woven fabric or a tetra-axial woven fabric that are impregnated with uncured thermosetting resin, and a second woven fabric prepreg which is made of one of a triaxial woven fabric or a tetra-axial woven fabric that are impregnated with uncured thermosetting resin.
US08262490B2 Connecting system and constant velocity joint
A system for connecting a shaft (5) to a joint (1), which system includes a shaft journal (10) that is connected to the shaft (5), and a sleeve (4) that is connected to a hub of the joint (1), the sleeve (4) having a shaft-side first opening section (7), a joint-side second opening section (8), and a first radial stop section (14), and the shaft journal (10) having a shaft-side first shaft-journal section (11), a joint-side second shaft-journal section (12), and a second radial stop section (15) for delimiting the insertion path of the shaft journal (10) in the sleeve (4).
US08262489B2 Constant velocity joint attachment method
A shaft member includes a plurality of shaft splines and a shaft preloading portion. The assembly also includes a collar member adjustably coupled to the shaftmember and having a collar member groove and a preloading portion formed therein; a first member having a first member groove and a plurality of first member splines formed therein; and a retaining member selectively at least partially interposed within both the collar member groove and the first member groove for restraining axial movement between the shaft member and the collar member. At least a portion of the first member groove and at least a portion of the collar member groove are selectively aligned when the shaft member is at least partially interposed within the first member to permit the retaining member to be at least partially positioned within both the first member groove and the collar member groove.
US08262481B2 Game control program, game device and game control method, management server, and data managing method
A designer terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention is a game device operated by a designer. The designer terminal includes a stage setting unit that generates design data on a virtual space, in which players play games, according to instructions from the designer, a stage distributing unit that distributes the generated design data to an external unit, a game action data acquiring unit that acquires game data recording game actions taken in the virtual space at player terminals that have acquired the design data, and a game action reproducing unit that displays, on the screen of the designer, the game actions taken in the virtual space at the player terminals, based on the acquired game data.
US08262475B2 Chipless table split screen feature
A system for playing a live game of chance using electronic wagering. The system uses a gaming table equipped with a card-reading apparatus and multiple dual-mode player/dealer displays, each with a player interface. Physical playing cards are electronically read and delivered to the gaming table. Electronic information of at least one of rank and count is provided to a game processor. The game processor also sends and receives player information to and from a player display. The player display is divided into two areas a first area displaying player information and a second area displaying dealer information. The player enters wagers and other play decisions through the player interface. The system displays information useful to the player on the first area and information useful to the dealer on the second area at appropriate intervals.
US08262474B2 Method and device for controlling player character dialog in a video game located on a computer-readable storage medium
In a computing machine having a processing unit, memory and a display device for playing a video game, the video game comprising at least one or more game characters, the at least one or more game character being controlled by a special purpose computing input device connected to said computer and operable by a game player, the video game further comprising character dialog between or among the at least one or more game characters, the character dialog comprising vignettes of dialog wherein movement from one vignette to another is determined by the game player introducing emotion into the dialog by means of the special purpose computing input device. The special purpose computing input device introduces emotion into the video game during a character dialog or character encounter along an axis of a joystick or other game controller element.
US08262473B2 Interactive toy with visual and audio feedback
Disclosed herein is an amusement device, the amusement device having: a display device rotatably mounted to a structure, the display device being configured to create a plurality of images via a persistence of vision effect; a device for rotating the display device; a sensor for determining whether an object has hit one of the plurality of images; a microcontroller in operable communication with the sensor and the display device, the microcontroller changing the appearance of at least one of the plurality of images when the sensor determines that an object has hit at least one of the plurality of images.
US08262472B2 Comprehensive single page view of user's gaming achievements
A method is disclosed for providing comprehensive information of all game achievements on a single GUI of a gaming and media system. The achievements GUI lists all game achievements, whether locked or unlocked, and may visually differentiate between locked and unlocked achievements. Upon a user selecting a listed achievement, information relating to that achievement may be displayed on the same GUI, in an achievement descriptor area beside the area listing the achievements.
US08262471B2 Multiplayer online game with inheritance of attributes from characters
Relationships among player characters in a video game, including parent-child relationships, can be formed. In addition, death and reincarnation of player characters can be employed as features of the video game.
US08262464B2 Partially-powered wagering game machines
Apparatus, systems, and methods may operate to receive an indication that a wagering game machine is to enter into a service power mode while the game machine is fully operational, and then to enter into the service power mode to disable game play while providing substantially uninterrupted power to a subset of game machine components. These powered components include one or more processors and memory. The service power mode may operate to leave the remainder of the game machine components unpowered, so that later transitioning from the service power mode to full operation does not result in resetting the processors. Other apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed.
US08262453B2 Combination lottery and raffle game
Various embodiments of system and method for implementing a combination lottery and raffle game are provided. One embodiment comprises a method for a progressive lottery game that establishes an initial amount for a lottery jackpot and a raffle-triggering jackpot amount for a progressive lottery game, performing a first lottery draw for the progressive lottery game, and if there is not a jackpot winner based on the first lottery draw, increasing the lottery jackpot to a new amount. Otherwise, if the new amount exceeds the raffle-triggering jackpot amount, combining a raffle game with the progressive lottery game for a subsequent lottery draw. Alternately, the method includes adding a raffle-style game to a progressive lottery game when a winning jackpot reaches a predetermined raffle-triggering jackpot amount, and awarding at least one raffle prize when a draw for the progressive lottery game produces a winning jackpot.
US08262452B2 Gaming device and its control method
It is possible to select plural types of drawing games in accordance with a condition and to provide a game player with the selected drawing games. A game device (1) for performing a bingo game for drawing either a first prize or a second prize with a ball B includes two stages (1100 and 1200) for respectively performing a drawing with the ball B, drawing game performing means for performing a digital drawing game for drawing any of a plurality of prizes including a third prize to be rewarded for the ball B, a fourth prize for setting subsequent game conditions to be a normal mode, and a fifth prize for setting the subsequent game conditions to be a probability change mode, setting the subsequent games to be the normal mode when the fourth prize is rewarded, and setting the subsequent games to be the probability change mode when the fifth prize is rewarded, supply means for supplying the ball B to a predetermined transporting path, and first feeding means and second feeding means for feeding the ball B to the stage (1000) when the present game condition is in the normal mode and for feeding the ball B to the stage (1200) when the present game condition is in the probability change mode.
US08262443B2 Air distribution system with contactless activation of air openings
A system for distributing air in the passenger compartment of a vehicle, e.g. of a motor vehicle, comprises at least one outlet for the outflow of air in the passenger compartment which can be activated placing a hand at a short distance therefrom without touching it.
US08262441B2 Coin dispensing and storing device
A coin dispensing and storing device includes a coin distributing body (10), coin collecting tubes (20), a left rotatable support (30), a pivotal plate (40) and a right rotatable support (50). Coins are received in the coin collecting tubes (20) respectively. The left rotatable support (30) is pivotally connected to one side of the coin distributing body (10). The left rotatable support (30) allows a portion of the coin collecting tubes (20) to be disposed therein. The pivotal plate (40) is pivotally connected to the other side of the coin distributing body (10). The right rotatable support (50) is connected to the pivotal plate (40). The right rotatable support (50) allows the remaining portion of the coin collecting tubes (20) to be disposed therein. The left rotatable support (30) and the right rotatable support (50) can be pivotally received in the coin distributing body (10) or rotated to the outside of the coin distributing body (10). With this arrangement, the operation is labor-saving. Further, the force exerting on the respective rotatable supports can be distributed efficiently to reduce the generation of damage and deformation.
US08262439B2 Riding apparatus for treating floor surfaces with a power cord handling swing arm
A swing arm for managing a power cord to an electric vehicle has a proximate arm member with a pivotable connection about a vertical axis for connection to the vehicle in proximity to a longitudinal center line of the vehicle. A distal arm member is pivotably connected about a pivot vertical axis to the proximate arm member and resiliently biased to extend straight out with respect to the proximate arm member. The swing arm is dimensioned to extend the distal arm member beyond a side of the vehicle when the swing arm extends laterally with respect to the vehicle. A spring member is connected to the distal arm member for resiliently biasing the distal arm member to extend straight out with respect to the proximate arm member against a side force below a predetermined amount and yieldable to bending of the distal arm member upon exertion of a side force above the predetermined amount.
US08262437B2 Glass polishing system
A glass polishing system includes a lower unit capable of rotating a glass placed at a fixed position, an upper unit capable of contacting with the glass and being passively rotated due to the rotation of the glass, and a moving unit for moving the upper unit in a horizontal and/or vertical direction. The upper unit includes a platter installed to a spindle of the moving unit, a separative platter separatably installed to the platter and having a polishing pad contacting with the glass, and a vacuum chuck for fixing the separative platter with respect to the platter by means of vacuum.
US08262436B2 Stone wall grinding and polishing system
A system, apparatus and method capable of grinding and polishing fabricated vertical surfaces of varying shapes and sizes without the use of hand tools. The system comprises a frame which can be affixed to the surface and which supports a grinding and polishing apparatus. The grinding and polishing apparatus uses air pressure to force a rotating grinding or polishing disc against the surface being worked on. The frame is designed so that the grinding and polishing apparatus can be moved (via, e.g., tracking) both vertically and horizontally to any desired point within the frame. The grinding and polishing apparatus optionally includes a water nozzle and vacuum system to spray and recapture water used to cool the surface being operated on.
US08262433B2 Bra cup for increasing visual appearance of breast size, and brassiere incorporating the same
A bra cup includes: an inner cup portion, comprising one or more inner foam layers; and an outer cup portion, attached to the inner cup portion, comprising one or more outer foam layers, the inner cup portion and the outer cup portion together forming the bra cup. The inner foam layers form first and second convex portions with respect to an inner surface of the inner cup portion. The first and second convex portions form, at an intersection therebetween, a channel on the inner surface extending from a lower portion of the cup towards an apex of the bra cup.
US08262431B2 Traveling toy system
A traveling toy system is provided, in which it is immediately confirmed where a self-driven towing vehicle is located under an upper track member. Two annular light permeable regions (5B, 5C) are disposed in the upper track member (5). A light emitting means (47) is attached to the self-driven towing vehicle (21). The two light permeable regions (5B, 5C) transmit light emitted from the light emitting means (47) of the self-driven towing vehicle (21). It is recognizable where the light emitting means (47) emits light under the light permeable regions (5B, 5C), as viewed from above the upper track member (5). Thus, it is easy to find where the self-driven towing vehicle (21) is by locating the light-emitting place.
US08262429B2 Method and apparatus for producing plasma display panel
A method for producing a plasma display panel includes the steps of: evacuating air from a discharge space formed between a front plate and a rear plate which are substrates facing each other through piping; introducing a discharge gas into the discharge space through gas piping that branches from the piping; and recovering the discharge gas remaining in the piping system through the piping.
US08262420B2 Electrical connector with a stable structure
An electrical connector (100) includes a first housing (1) and a second housing (3) retained to the first housing (1). The first housing (1) has a mating surface (11) and a mounting surface (12) at two sides thereof. The second housing (3) has a joint surface (31) to joint with the mounting surface (12). The first housing (1) defines a locking slot (131) recessed from the mounting surface (12). The second housing (3) is formed with a pair of spring arms (34) extending out of the joint surface (31) to resist opposed two inner walls of the locking slot (131).
US08262419B2 Contact for electric connector and method of making the same
A contact includes an upper contact having a planar main board with a plurality of blocks, a lower contact, and a spring. The lower contact includes a first spring arm and a second spring arm which are positioned at opposite sides of the main board of the upper contact. Only the second spring arm defines a recess to receive corresponding block of the upper contact. The spring is fitted over a predetermined area between the upper and the lower contact.
US08262417B1 Electrical connector
An electrical connector includes an insulating housing, a dielectric body, a plurality of conductive terminals and a metallic piece. The insulating housing has a top wall, a bottom wall, a rear wall and two opposite side walls which together define an accommodating space thereamong. Two sides of a bottom of the top wall define two receiving grooves. The dielectric body has a base portion fastened in the rear wall, and a tongue portion penetrating forward through the rear wall to be inserted in the accommodating space. The conductive terminals are disposed in the dielectric body. The metallic piece has a base plate molded in the top wall. Two sides of the base plate respectively define an opening corresponding to the receiving groove. A front side of the opening is slantwise bent upward to form a clipping portion located in the receiving groove.
US08262408B1 Coaxial cable assembly connection structure and method
A structure for the back end of repairable connectors, applicable for a variety of RF connectors, that facilitates superior mechanical and electrical characteristics of the resulting coax cable assembly. Also disclosed is a method of attaching one of various repairable connectors to coax cable that is both simple and stronger than existing methods. The outside insulation is removed from the end of the cable and the braiding is folded back out of the way. Depending on the number of layers of braiding, this step may be performed more than once. The dielectric surrounding the center conductor is then trimmed to expose the conductor. In one embodiment, a pin is soldered in-line with the center conductor. The connector is then placed on one end of the prepared cable and the braiding is unfolded. A band is then applied to secure the braiding against the connector, making a strong bond.
US08262405B1 Wire-to-wire connector
A wire-to-wire electrical connector includes an insulative body member and an internal connector position. A wire insertion opening is defined in each end wall of the body member at the connector position. A first contact element is disposed in the connector position coaxial with the wire insertion openings and includes opposite end portions with a respective contact tab configured thereon. The contact tabs are biased to a closed position across the respective wire insertion opening. An actuator is configured with each wire insertion opening. The actuators are movably displaceable through an opening in a wall of the body member and include an engagement end in contact with a respective end portion of the first contact element. The actuators are manually depressible to move the contact tabs to an open position for insertion of a conductive core of a wire into the wire insertion opening beyond the contact tab, whereby upon release and return of the actuators, the contact tabs are biased against the conductive cores of opposite wires.
US08262403B2 Break-away electrical connector
An electrical connector for electrically connecting a terminal to a cord of a peripheral device, the electrical connector including a plug member, a lever arm pivotally attached to the plug member, and a biasing member. The plug member and lever arm each include an engagement claw adapted to engage complementary surfaces on the terminal, and the biasing member imparts a biasing force on the lever arm to force the engagement claws to close onto the complementary surfaces on the terminal. The lever arm advantageously includes a first gripping surface with a contoured concave profile for a user to apply a releasing force against the biasing force to remove the plug member from the terminal. A second surface includes a concave surface for engaging a user's finger and forming a grip bump.
US08262402B2 Charging cable locking device and method for locking a cable
Charging cable locking device for electric vehicles with a receptacle 2 on the vehicle side to receive a charging cable 4 that can be connected with a charging station 20, and a locking unit 8 arranged at the receptacle 2, wherein the locking unit 8 is arranged for locking and releasing the charging cable 4 with the receptacle 2. Secure charging is possible in that the locking unit 8 is coupled with a closing unit 32 of the vehicle such that on activation of the closing unit 32, the charging cable 4 can be locked with the receptacle 2, and that on deactivation of the closing unit 32, the charging cable 4 can be released from the receptacle 2.
US08262395B2 Power connector assembly with improved terminals
A power connector assembly with improved terminals includes a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector. The first electrical connector has a first insulated body and a plurality of first power-terminal sets received in the first insulated body. The second electrical connector has a second insulated body and a plurality of second power-terminal sets received in the second insulated body. Each of the first power-terminal sets is contacted with each of the second power-terminal sets correspondingly. Each second power-terminal set has a pair of separate second power terminals. Each second power terminal has a contacting portion for contacting with the first power-terminal set. Each contacting portion is protruded with at least one bulge portion toward the first power-terminal set from a side thereof.
US08262391B2 Dental composition based on silicone crosslinkable by cation process
The invention concerns dental compositions. Said composition comprises (1) a silicone crosslinkable and/or polymerizable by cationic process; (2) an efficient amount of at least an initiator such as an organometallic complex borate; and (3) a dental filler present in the composition in a proportion of at least 10 wt. % relative to the composition total weight. Said dental compositions are useful for making dental prostheses or for dental restoration.
US08262388B2 Local enforcement of accuracy in fabricated models
The systems and methods disclosed herein employ a combination of digital three-dimensional modeling and rapid fabrication technologies to provide pre-indexed, pre-registered, and/or precut components for articulated dental models. Dental articulators and components of dental models as described herein use a positioning key to encode positional information for components of the dental model, and/or a reference grid on mounting surfaces to enforce local accuracy of fabricated parts against a fixed reference array.
US08262387B2 Atmosphere heat treatment apparatus and method of operating the same
An object of the present invention is to provide an atmosphere heat treatment apparatus that is operable without relying on experiences and/or intuitions of an operator, and a method of operating the same. The atmosphere heat treatment apparatus includes an entrance side exhaust path (26) for exhausting an inside atmosphere from an entrance side of a carburizing chamber (10) to which a transforming gas is supplied, an exit side exhaust path (35) for exhausting the inside atmosphere from an exit side of the heat treatment chamber, and an opening degree adjusting lid (28) attached for adjusting an opening degree of the entrance side exhaust path (26), in which a part or whole of the exit side exhaust path (35) is constituted of a pipe (46) having a predetermined inside diameter. It is checked in advance a relationship of a supplying amount A of the transforming gas with a ratio B:C of an exhaust amount B from the exit side exhaust path (35) and an exhaust amount C from the entrance side exhaust path (26) when a pressure in the carburizing chamber (10) is adjusted to a predetermined furnace pressure by adjusting an opening degree of the entrance side exhaust path (26) with the opening degree adjusting lid (28), and when treating a work (W), the supplying amount A of the transforming gas and a furnace pressure are adjusted so as to control the ratio B:C of the exhaust amount B from the exit side exhaust path (35) and the exhaust amount C from the entrance side exhaust path (26) to be within a predetermined range.
US08262384B2 Apparatus for blow moulding plastic preforms having a reduced dead volume
A blow molding apparatus for expanding plastic preforms into plastic containers may include a blow piston extending in a longitudinal direction and a blow nozzle extending from the blow piston in the longitudinal direction. The blow nozzle may be configured to apply a gaseous medium to a preform for the expansion thereof. A connection device may be structured and arranged to supply the gaseous medium to the blow molding apparatus via at least two connection lines, and a control block may be arranged between the connection device and the blow piston. The control block may be configured to control the supply of the gaseous medium during the expansion process using at least partially varying pressure levels and may have a plurality of channels for guiding the gaseous medium. The plurality of channels may be separated from each other at least in sections and may be distributed in a circumferential direction of the control block. At least two valves may be on an outer circumference of the control block. The valves may be distributed in a circumferential direction around the control block, and may be controlled independent of one another for controlling the supply of the gaseous medium to the blow nozzle. A distribution member may be configured to guide the gaseous medium into said channels. The distribution member may be arranged between the connection device and the control block if viewed in the flow direction of the gaseous medium. The channels may extend within the control block at least in sections substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the blow piston.
US08262380B2 Injection mold
An exemplary injection mold for manufacturing a fiber optic connector includes a first mold, a second mold, an insert, two first positioning bar, and four second positioning bars. The first mold and the second mold cooperatively define a mold cavity. The mold cavity includes two lens molding recesses. The two inserts are attached to the second mold and located in the mold cavity. A dimension of each second bar in cross section is substantially smaller than that of each first positioning bar. One first positioning bar and two second positioning bars are arranged around each insert to position the insert, such that the inserts is suspended in the mold cavity and precisely aligns with the respective molding recesses.
US08262378B2 Method for multilayer molding of thermoplastic resins and multilayer molding apparatus
A multilayer-molding method includes the steps of mixing at least one thermoplastic resin selected from a plurality of types of thermoplastic resins with a bubble-nucleating agent and a foaming gas, injecting the plurality of types of thermoplastic resins into a mold cavity such that the thermoplastic resins are layered in the mold cavity, and then, after increasing the volume of the mold cavity, foaming the at least one thermoplastic resin mixed with the bubble-nucleating agent and the foaming gas. The multilayer-molding method is characterized in that the foaming gas is supplied at a pressure of 0.1 MPa or more but less than 1.0 MPa to at least one injection-molding machine selected from a plurality of injection-molding machines, and that the thermoplastic resin plasticized in the injection-molding machine is mixed with the foaming gas.
US08262370B2 Cooling system for a blower
Arrangement in a blower including at least an engine and a fan, the fan includes a fan housing enclosing a fan wheel and a fan inlet. The engine and fan are surrounded by a casing provided with an air inlet to let air in to the fan inlet placed inside the casing. The air stream from the air inlet in the housing to the fan inlet cools the engine and components inside the casing before it enters the fan inlet and leaves the blower via a blower tube. The fan housing is provided with an opening (31) placed in the fan housing so that air is allowed to leave the fan in case of blocked air stream in the fan outlet or blower tube.
US08262369B2 Submersible pump unit
A submersible pump unit having a wet-running electric motor and only a single impeller can be driven by the electric motor with a rotation speed greater than 20,000 rpm. The rotor of the electric motor has a diameter of less than 25 mm.
US08262367B2 Fault-tolerant chemical injection system for oil and gas wells
A metering body for a chemical injection system comprises a free piston having a pair of mechanically-actuated poppet valves which may individually open to permit fluid to pass from one side of the free piston to the other. The free piston slides within a cylinder having cylinder heads at opposing ends. Input/output ports are provided in the cylinder heads. In a preferred embodiment, the poppet valves have actuators that extend beyond the opposing faces of the free piston. If one face of the piston moves to within a predetermined distance of a cylinder head, the actuator contacts the cylinder head and further movement of the piston causes the corresponding poppet valve to open, permitting fluid to flow through the piston. In this way, a fault-tolerant system may be implemented. If a power interruption or other failure of the controller occurs, the system will continue to supply fluid at the most recently selected flow rate. When power is restored (or the fault is corrected), the controller causes a valve to reverse the flow of fluid through the metering body and the spring-loaded poppet valve will close as the free piston moves away from the cylinder head.
US08262366B2 Piston systems having a flow path between piston chambers, pumps including a flow path between piston chambers, and methods of driving pumps
Piston systems comprise a housing including a first piston chamber and a second piston chamber therein. A first piston is movably disposed within the first piston chamber and a second piston is movably disposed within the second piston chamber. A flow path extends between and couples the first piston chamber and the second piston chamber. Reciprocating pumps comprising a flow path between a plurality of piston chambers and methods of driving reciprocating pumps are also disclosed.
US08262359B2 Diaphragm for turbomachines and method of manufacture
A turbine diaphragm includes an annulus of static blades and an outer diaphragm ring surrounding the annulus of static blades and welded to the outer platforms. Each static blade has an inner platform, an aerofoil, and an outer platform. The inner platforms serve the function of an inner diaphragm ring, thereby reducing material and manufacturing costs. Furthermore, confronting edges of the inner platforms have an interference fit with each other and the aerofoils are in a state of torsional stress between the inner and outer platforms. The latter two features improve the dynamic characteristics of the diaphragm.
US08262353B2 Decoupler system for rotor assemblies
A rotor decoupler system for a gas turbine engine is disclosed, comprising a load reduction system disposed between a bearing system and the bearing support. The load reduction system comprises a fuse and a damper such that the damper transfers at least a part of the radial load from the rotor to the bearing support when a fuse fails. In one exemplary embodiment the damper comprises a wire mesh, disposed around the outer race of the bearing. In another exemplary embodiment the damper comprises a rope damper assembly. In yet another exemplary embodiment, a load reduction system is disposed between a support structure and a frame, comprising an extensional fuse and a damper disposed between the support structure and the frame such that the damper transfers at least a part of the unbalance load to the frame when an extensional fuse fails.
US08262350B2 Heat insulating structure for expansion turbine, and method of manufacturing the same
A heat insulating structure for an expansion turbine includes an adiabatic expansion device including an expander body that includes an outlet passage for refrigerant fluid at a central portion thereof and an introduction chamber for refrigerant fluid communicating with an inlet of the outlet passage on an outer peripheral portion thereof, and a turbine impeller that is rotatably provided at the inlet and braked by a braking device. The adiabatic expansion device adiabatically expands refrigerant fluid by rotating the turbine impeller with refrigerant fluid that flows from the introduction chamber to the outlet passage side. A heat-insulating layer, which surrounds the entire periphery of the outlet passage over the entire length of the introduction chamber, is formed between the introduction chamber and the outlet passage. Accordingly, it is possible to improve turbine efficiency by reducing transfer of heat of refrigerant fluid from the introduction chamber to the outlet passage.
US08262342B2 Gas turbine engine assemblies with recirculated hot gas ingestion
A gas turbine engine assembly includes a housing including an annular duct wall that at least partially defines a mainstream hot gas flow path configured to receive mainstream hot gas flow. The assembly further includes a stator assembly including a stator vane that extends into the mainstream hot gas flow path and a turbine rotor assembly downstream of the stator assembly that includes a turbine disk and a turbine blade extending from the turbine disk into the mainstream hot gas flow path. The stator assembly and turbine assembly define a turbine disk cavity, and the turbine disk cavity includes a recirculation cavity configured to recirculate gas ingested from the mainstream hot gas flow path back into the mainstream hot gas flow path.
US08262340B2 Turbomachine exerting dynamic influence on the flow
A turbomachine includes at least one rotor 1 featuring a hub and one stator 2, with a casing 5 confining the flow through the rotor 1 and the stator 2 to the outside. It also includes running-gap adjacent hub and casing surfaces LNGO, with openings being provided along the circumference on at least one running-gap adjacent hub and casing surface LNGO which form at least one dynamically operating supply point DAV which is connected via a least one line 6 to at least one opening on a blade-passage confining surface SKO.
US08262333B2 Connecting element and connecting arrangement
The invention relates to a connecting element for the mechanical connection of at least two components, in particular two components of a motor vehicle door, with a bearing collar for bearing against a first component, with a crossbar that has bearing flanks for bearing against a second component and for clamping the latter against the first component in a rotated final assembly position, and with a shaft section, which bears the crossbar, for rotatably passing through corresponding openings in the components. In this case, a means is provided for fastening to the first component in a defined preassembly position. Furthermore, the invention relates to a corresponding connecting arrangement comprising at least two components each having an aperture, and a connecting element of this type, with the connecting element being held on the first component in a preassembly position.
US08262330B2 Fastening structure, fastening method and fastening member
A fastening structure in which a first member and a second member are mutually connected, the second member is formed with a hole, the first member is formed with a tubular projecting portion, the hole is inserted into the tubular projecting portion, a fastening member including a threaded portion having an outer diameter larger than a minimum inside diameter of the tubular projecting portion and smaller than a hole diameter of the second member is screwed into the tubular projecting portion in the axis line direction, and by this screwing of the fastening member into the tubular projecting portion, the tubular projecting portion is expanded to expand radially and outwardly, and then an outer circumference surface of the tubular projecting portion is pressed onto the peripheral wall of the hole of the second member.
US08262326B2 Machining unit for a milling and drilling machine
The subject-matter of the invention is a machining unit for a milling and drilling machine, comprising a spindle housing (1) which is supported on a machine part and can be moved in a longitudinal direction, a milling head (5) mounted on the face end of the spindle housing (1), a work spindle (6) supported in the milling head (5) and comprising an electric drive motor, and an energy and working stock supply to the milling head (5) formed of bunched lines and cables. The bunched lines and cables for the energy and working stock supply are disposed inside the spindle housing (1) in the shape of a string (25) and introduced into the milling head (5) via a rotary transmission leadthrough (8) on the face.
US08262324B2 Cutting insert with protrusions formed at corner area thereof
A cutting insert has an upper surface, a lower surface, a plurality of side surfaces connecting the upper surface and the lower surface and a central hole formed at a central portion thereof. The cutting insert has a flat seating surface formed on a highest level of the upper surface, a plurality of side cutting edge portions formed at intersections of the upper surface and the side surfaces, and a corner cutting edge portion formed at an intersection of two adjacent side cutting edge portions and having a cutting edge formed at a front end thereof. A land portion, a downward inclined surface, a corner bottom surface, a first protrusion, an upward inclined surface and the seating surface are formed on the corner cutting edge portion sequentially along a diagonal line directed from the cutting edge to the central hole. A pair of second protrusions are formed and disposed symmetrically on both sides of the diagonal line so that the corner bottom surface is surrounded by the downward inclined surface, the first protrusion, and the second protrusions, and the corner bottom surface has the smallest height and the seating surface has the largest height along the diagonal line.
US08262321B1 Methods of providing man-made islands
This invention relates to the creation of man-made islands and other like floating structures using composite materials, such as plastic foam coated with a Fiber Reinforced Coating (FRC), such as Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC).
US08262316B2 Surface gravity wave generator and wave pool
A surface gravity wave generator and wave pool is disclosed. A wave pool is formed of opposing side walls and a center channel of water. The channel includes a bottom contour with a depth that runs from a deep end to a shoal or beach. One or more three-dimensional foils are vertically arranged along at least one side wall, and moved against the water in the channel. Each foil has a curvilinear cross-sectional geometry that defines a leading surface that is adapted to generate a wave in water moving past the leading surface, and a trailing surface configured for flow recovery to avoid separation of the flow of water in the wave and to mitigate drag from the foil from the water moving past the leading surface.
US08262313B2 Method and composition for road construction and surfacing
Methods and compositions for improving the strength and longevity of secondary roadways through environmentally sound practices are disclosed herein. A composition for road sealing includes an aqueous emulsion of acrylic and vinyl acetate polymer, water, and a resin-modified emulsion, wherein the resin-modified emulsion includes a mixture of pitch and rosin, an emulsifying agent, and water.
US08262310B2 Coupler with secondary lock on front hook
A coupler includes a frame with a front hook and a rear hook. A rear hook lock moves between an unlocked position and a locked position, wherein the rear hook lock obstructs an open mouth of the rear hook when the rear hook lock is in its locked position. An actuator is connected to the frame and is operatively connected to the rear hook lock. The actuator is adapted to move the rear hook lock between its unlocked and locked positions. A secondary lock includes a latch that moves between extended and retracted positions, wherein the latch obstructs an open mouth of the front hook when the latch is in its extended position. A first lock bar is connected to the frame and is movable between: (i) a disengaged position in which the first lock bar allows movement of the rear hook lock to its unlocked position and allows movement of said latch to its retracted position; and, (ii) an engaged position where the first lock bar blocks movement of the rear hook lock to its unlocked position and blocks movement of the latch to its retracted position. The first lock bar is biased toward its engaged position and is adapted to be moved to its disengaged position by contact with an associated excavator arm.
US08262308B2 Coupling structure for a casing
A coupling structure for coupling first and second halves into a casing, includes a first coupling element projecting outward from an inner surface of the first casing half and formed with a detachment hole and a second coupling element projecting outward from an inner surface of the second casing half and for engaging with the first coupling element. Insertion of a detachment tool via an opening in the casing and the detachment hole to abut against the second coupling element results in inward bending of the second coupling element with respect to the first coupling element, thereby disengaging the second coupling element from the first coupling element, hence the first casing half disengages from the second casing half.
US08262307B1 Attachable condiment applicators and kit therefor
A kit comprising various devices for supplying condiments thereto foodstuffs and stored therein a case is herein disclosed. The kit incorporates interchangeable brushes similar to a basting brush that threadably engages a squeezable condiment bottle containing catsup, mustard, barbecue sauce, glazes and the like. Unlike existing packaging, the condiments travel by squeeze pressure through a bottle opening, through a hollow handle, and subsequently onto bristles of an attached brush for application. The brush has a sanitary cover for storage and also comprises additional interchangeable cooking implements, such as, but not limited to flow tips and extension pieces.
US08262306B2 Dispenser and applicator that bring reactive substances into contact with each other at time of use
A squeezable hermetically sealed vessel contains a whitening compound and an elongated applicator tip extending outwardly from the vessel. A cap closed and seals the applicator tip and the vessel, but may be removed under manual force. Once the cap is removed, the walls of the vessel may be squeezed together to urges the contents of the vessel to flow through a fluid passage through the elongated applicator tip to reach an accommodating surface. The accommodating surface may either be impregnated with a different material that reacts with the contents of the vessel upon contact or covers a chamber that in turn contains such a different material.
US08262304B2 Highlighter and pen combination
A combination pen and highlighter includes a body, at least one anchor which connects the body to an extendable highlighter and a button for manipulating the highlighter. The combination uses two separate springs to lock the highlighter in either a closed position or a highlighter extended position.
US08262302B1 Kit for a heating applicator and product
A heating applicator kit for mascara or other products that tend to dry out or be adversely affected when heated. A kit comprises multiple reservoirs of product and at least one heating applicator that alleviates the problems associated with heat exposure in the reservoir and on the applicator head.
US08262296B2 Connector having an floatable optical module
A connector (100) includes an insulative housing (1) having a receiving slot (121) formed therein and a post (1221) protruding forwardly towards the receiving slot (121); a set of contacts (2) retained in the insulative housing; an optical module (3) for transmitting optical data and being movably received in the receiving slot along a front-to-back direction; and a compression coil spring (4) sandwiched between the insulative housing and the optical module, and having a front end for biasing the optical module (3) forwardly and a rear end for being retained on the post (1221).
US08262293B2 Radial rolling bearing
A double-row angular contact bearing and which has outer and inner bearing rings with two rows of rolling elements disposed between the bearing rings that are held by two bearing cages interspaced at even distances. At least one row is configured as balls with parallel lateral faces that are symmetrically flattened. Both rows of rolling elements roll in adjacent races machined into the inner face of the outer ring and the outer face of the inner ring. The contact angle axes are pitched towards each other in an O-arrangement or X-arrangement and the races are axially delimited only on one side by shoulders. Additional clearance and supporting contours are formed at axial edge sections, opposite the shoulders, onto the races. The contours can be used to fit the balls into angular contact by axially inserting them into the clearance between the bearing rings and then tilting them into the races.
US08262291B2 Coreless seal and rolling bearing
A coreless seal arranged between a rotation shaft and an outer member has an inner diameter surface opposed to an outer diameter surface of the rotation shaft with a space for preventing leakage of fluid. The outer member has a flange bent inwardly. The coreless seal has an outer diameter and an inner diameter that are dimensions obtained by adding interference for an amount of thermal shrinkage as a whole dimension.
US08262290B2 Bearing having a porous element for accommodating lubricant
A bearing element 7 has rolling bodies 3, having an inner raceway, an outer raceway and adjacent rolling bodies 3 which are arranged rotatably between the inner and the outer raceways via a cage 4 for holding the rolling bodies 3. At least one porous element 6, 13, 16 is provided for accommodating lubricant for the bearing element 7.
US08262288B2 Focal spot position determiner
One or more systems and/or techniques are disclosed herein for determining the orientation of a focal spot of a radiation source based upon shadows that are imposed on channels of a detector array from an anti-scatter grid. The anti-scatter grid is comprised of one or more anti-scatter plates that are focused on a point other than an intended focal spot of the radiation source. Such anti-scatters plates cast shadows on the detector array (even when the focal spot is located at the intended focal spot). By measuring changes in the signals generated by channels of the detector array that detect the shadows, it may be determined how the orientation of the focal spot has changed throughout an examination or between a calibration scan and an examination scan, for example.
US08262281B2 Device for mixing a liquid medium
The invention provides a device for mixing a liquid medium, an apparatus for mixing a liquid medium, a system comprising a device and an apparatus and a method for mixing a liquid medium. The device comprises a flexible membrane (12) and a structural part (16), which device further comprises an actuation part (14) located on a first side of the membrane, which device further comprises a mixing chamber (20) located on a second side of the membrane, wherein at least a partial inclination of the membrane results from an inclination of the actuation part relative to the structural part.
US08262280B1 Intrinsically safe moisture blending system
A system for providing an adjustable blend of fluids to an application process is disclosed. The system uses a source of a first fluid flowing through at least one tube that is permeable to a second fluid and that is disposed in a source of the second fluid to provide the adjustable blend. The temperature of the second fluid is not regulated, and at least one calibration curve is used to predict the volumetric mixture ratio of the second fluid with the first fluid from the permeable tube. The system typically includes a differential pressure valve and a backpressure control valve to set the flow rate through the system.
US08262277B2 Aroma diffusing night lamp system with an angle-adjustable electric plug
An aroma diffusing night lamp system having the characteristics of high heating performance, high level of safety and angle adjustability is disclosed to include a night lamp unit formed of a lamp socket holding a light emitting device, an electric plug rotatably coupled to the lamp socket and a safety lampshade surrounding the light emitting device, and an aroma diffuser unit formed of an electrically insulative heater holder, a heater carried in the electrically insulative heater holder and an outer lampshade that is mounted on the lamp socket around the safety lampshade and defines a top trough that holds an aromatic substance and has the bottom wall thereof kept in contact with the heater for enabling the aromatic substance to be heated into vapor safely.
US08262272B2 Optical lens and illuminating device incorporating the same
An optical lens includes an array of lens units. Each lens unit includes a main body, a light diverging portion and a light converging portion. The main body includes a light incident surface and a light emitting surface opposite to the light incident surface. The light diverging portion is configured for expanding a light field along a first direction. The light converging portion is configured for compressing a light field along a second direction. The light diverging portion and the light converging portion are formed on at least one of the light incident surface and the light emitting surface. The light converging portion includes parallel recesses distributed along the second direction.
US08262269B2 License plate lamp
A license plate lamp for radiating light to a surface of a license plate attached to a rear end of a vehicle body includes: a lamp body disposed above the license plate; a light emitting diode disposed within the lamp body, the light emitting diode having an optical axis extending in a vertical direction for emitting light toward a license plate located under the light emitting diode; and a control lens provided between the light emitting diode and the license plate for controlling the light emitted by the light emitting diode so that the light is radiated toward a surface of the license plate. The control lens includes a first control portion for radiating the light emitted by the light emitting diode toward an upper end part of the surface of the license plate, and a second control portion located rearward of the first control portion for radiating the light emitted by the light emitting diode toward substantially a whole region of the surface of the license plate.
US08262266B2 Illuminating lamp
An illuminating lamp which can be easily assembled is provided. The illuminating lamp includes a decorative component including a mounting member mountable to an opening provided to a roof trim of a vehicle and a lens mounted on a compartment side of the mounting member, and a functional component including a light source and a holder which holds the light source and is mounted to the mounting member. The mounting member includes a flat plate to which the holder is mounted, an aperture provided at the flat plate to transmit light into the compartment, and a cover portion receiving the light source and reflecting the light of the light source into the compartment. The cover portion includes an opening portion at one end thereof along a longitudinal direction of the flat plate through which the light source is inserted along the flat plate.
US08262260B2 Lamp with side emitting LED and heat sink
An LED lamp includes a heat sink including a supporting plate, a plurality of LEDs mounted on the supporting plate and a heat-conducting mounting wall extending upwardly from a top face of the supporting plate. The heat-conducting mounting wall has inclined outer faces oriented upwardly. The LEDs includes a plurality of first LEDs disposed on a bottom face of the supporting plate and a plurality of second LEDs disposed on the inclined outer faces of the heat-conducting mounting wall, whereby light generated from the second LEDs projects towards a lateral side of the LED lamp.
US08262257B2 Illumination device with LED with a self-supporting grid containing luminescent material and method of making the self-supporting grid
The invention provides an illumination device (10) comprising (a) a light emitting diode (LED), (b) a heat sink (85) and (c) a self-supporting grid (500). This grid (500) is arranged downstream of the LED (20) and arranged so as to be in contact with the heat sink 85. The self-supporting grid (500) comprises a plurality of grid structures (501) and a plurality of grid openings 502) between the grid structures (501). At least part of the total number of grid openings (502) encloses luminescent material (51), thereby providing luminescent material-filled grid openings (551). The luminescent material (51) is arranged to absorb at least part of the LED emission (21) and emit luminescent material emission (13). The LED (20) and the luminescent material (51) are arranged to provide light (115) of a predetermined color downstream of the self-supporting grid (500).
US08262254B2 Carrier structure for mounting LED chips
A carrier structure for mounting at least an LED chip includes at least a lead and a base. The LED chip housed inside the base is coupled parallel with an electronic element. The lead is connected electrically to the LED chip at one end, while another end is exposed to the atmosphere. The base encaving the lead further has a shallow accommodation room to mount the electronic element at a surface not the same with the surface that mounts the LED chip.
US08262251B2 Light fixture using doped semiconductor nanophosphor in a gas
A light fixture, for example a white light fixture for a general lighting application, uses a solid state source and one or more semiconductor nanophosphors dispersed in a gas contained in the fixture. Exemplary sources use one or more LEDs rated for emission of a wavelength in the range of 460 nm and below. Nanophosphors used in the specific examples are doped semiconductor nanophosphors. The gas and semiconductor nanophosphor(s) are remotely deployed, for example, at a remote location in or around a macro optical element (optic) such as a window, a reflector, a diffuser, an optical integrating cavity, etc. of the light fixture. The gas with the doped semiconductor nanophosphor(s) dispersed therein may appear at least substantially clear when the solid state source is off.
US08262250B2 Modular LED lighting systems and flexible or rigid strip lighting devices
The present invention relates to lighting strips and more particularly to modular lighting systems comprising lighting devices, for example, lighting strips, physically and electrically connectable with one another by way of a plug and socket integrally formed at opposing ends of the lighting strips. The lighting strip devices can be made of flexible material to allow for applying the lighting devices along flat as well as contoured surfaces. The lighting strips can also be rigid. More particularly, embodiments of the invention include modular lighting strips comprising: a non-conductive substrate strip comprising an electrical circuit; a plurality of light sources operably connected to the electrical circuit; a plug integrally formed at an end of the substrate strip; and a socket integrally formed at an opposing end of the substrate strip; wherein the plug and socket provide for removable, friction-fit, latch or latchless, and electrical interconnection of two or more circuits. Also included in the invention are connector assemblies comprising the inventive socket and plugs integral to PCBs for use in the field of electronics. One or more lighting strip can be combined to form lighting systems, which are useful in many functional and decorative lighting applications. The lighting systems are useful for any residential or commercial application where modular, discrete, low-profile, and/or flexible lighting is desired. The lighting strips of the invention can be used in particular for back lighting, accent lighting, aisle or path lighting, contour lighting, elegant interior decoration, holiday decorations, or landscape lighting.
US08262249B2 Linear solid-state lighting with broad viewing angle
A linear light-emitting diode (LED)-based solid-state device comprising a curved surface to hold a flexible printed circuit board with multiple linear arrays of surface mount LEDs provides lighting applications with a broad viewing angle over 180° along the radial direction. On each of the two lamp bases of the lamp, a shock-protection switch is mounted to prevent shock hazard during re-lamping.
US08262248B2 Convertible work light
Disclosed is a work light with two convertible configurations. The first configuration is a light mounted upon a stand with an extendable neck. The second is a flashlight. A third, intermediate configuration is presented when the neck is extended in the flashlight mode. The light head has a standard twist switch and a key interface with the body to maintain a lower portion of the head in a stationary position relative to the body when in the work light is in the flashlight configuration. The stand is a tripod with legs collapsible into a central body to form the flashlight handle, a movable stop being provided to support the legs when deployed and hold the legs, along with the body, when stowed in the flashlight configuration. A double linkage hinge is also provided the head and neck for allowing motion of the head relative the remainder of the work light. Magnets are applied at both the head of the work light and the end of the movable stop such that the work light may be used as an extendable pick up tool with the magnet in the head and it may be mounted solely by the magnet, even against the pull of gravity, by the magnet in the stop.
US08262247B2 Method and apparatus for directing a flashlight
A method and apparatus for directing a flashlight is provided. The apparatus comprises: a base; a receptacle mechanically coupled to the base; a clip mechanically coupled to the opposite side of the base capable of securing the apparatus to an article of clothing; and one or more hinges mechanically coupled to the base and receptacle, and optionally one or more straps mechanically coupled to the receptacle for attaching a flashlight to the receptacle. Such apparatus and related methods facilitate directing a flashlight's beam in front of a user while simultaneously securing the flashlight to a user's article of clothing.
US08262244B2 Furniture with wireless power
Furniture components, such as office furniture components, that are configured to include electronic components that transfer electrical power to peripheral electronic devices via wireless technologies, including conductive and inductive technologies. The articles of furniture may include grommet devices received within work surfaces, the grommet devices incorporating or housing the electronics of wireless power systems. The articles of furniture may also include the electronics of wireless power systems physically embedded or integrated within work surfaces in a manner in which the continuous surfaces of the work surfaces are maintained, and the work surfaces may optionally further include lighting or other indication features to indicate the locations of the electronics to a user.
US08262242B2 Electric power tools
An electric power tool can include a switch and a lamp that is another member are incorporated in the housing, and the lamp is coupled to the case of the switch and assembled in the grip part integral with the switch.
US08262241B2 Retractable lamp pen operating in alternate modes
A lamp pen comprises a lower body, an upper body attachable to the lower body, a refill and a lamp disposed in the lower body, a conductive spring disposed about the pen refill, a rotating body assembly disposed in the upper body and having a battery, conductive terminals, and a rotating wheel, a conductive guiding sleeve, a conductive element, and a push button assembly.Repeatedly depressing the push button assembly causes the rotating body assembly to rotate such that the assembly moves between a first position wherein the refill is retracted into the lower body, a second position wherein the refill is extended, the conductive terminals of the body assembly engage the conductive guiding sleeve causing the lamp to illuminate, a third position wherein the refill is retracted, and a fourth position wherein the refill is extended and the lamp is not illuminated.
US08262240B2 Rear view mirror
Then invention is related to a rear view mirror attached to a vehicle comprising a mirror housing. The reflective element is fixed in relation to the mirror housing and the mirror housing is movable versus the vehicle by separately extendable elements.
US08262232B2 Display device emitting a light flux and mobile apparatus including the display device
A display device is provided that includes: a projection unit emitting a light flux including image information; and a divergence angle controlling unit controlling a divergence angle of the light flux emitted from the projection unit to not more than a prescribed angle. The divergence angle controlling unit includes a transmission unit transmitting the light flux emitted from the projection unit and a light shielding unit shielding part of the light flux, and the part of the light flux is shielded by the light shielding unit so that the divergence angle of the light flux is controlled to not more than a prescribed angle.
US08262230B2 Projection system
A projection system is provided. The projection system comprises a first light source module, a second light source module, a prism module, a projection lens and a digital micromirror device (DMD). The two light source modules provide a first light beam and a second light beam according to the specific timing sequences respectively. The prism module is defined with a first reflection mechanism and a second reflection mechanism. The DMD comprises a plurality of micro mirrors. After traveling into the prism module and being reflected by the first reflection mechanism, the first light beam is emitted onto the micro mirrors. The first light beam is adapted to be reflected onto the projection lens and images onto the screen while the micro mirrors are tilted at a first angle. After traveling into the prism module and being reflected by the second reflection mechanism, the second light beam is emitted onto the micro mirrors. The second light beam is adapted to be reflected onto the projection lens and images onto the screen while the micro mirrors are tilted at a second angle. The two light source modules would be switched therebetween according to the specific timing sequences and specific angles of the micro mirrors.
US08262228B2 Light and color surround
The present disclosure is directed towards a multimedia system comprising a multimedia reader. The multimedia reader may be configured to read multimedia content and to extract light surround content. The light surround content may represent a light surround control signal. The light surround content may be extracted from the multimedia content. The multimedia reader may also be configured to output the light surround control signal. Further, the multimedia system may also include one or more light emitting devices. Each light emitting device may be in communication with the multimedia reader. Each light emitting device may be configured to receive the light surround control signal and to control a light characteristic based upon, at least in part the light surround control signal. Numerous other embodiments are also within the scope of the present disclosure.
US08262218B2 Optical recording/reproducing apparatus with label printing feature
An optical recording/reproducing apparatus includes an optical disc drive unit for recording/reproducing information with respect to a recording surface of an optical disc, a label printer module for printing a label on a label surface of the optical disc, and an optical disc support apparatus separated from the optical disc during recording/reproduction of the information, and supporting the optical disc to allow the label surface of the optical disc to be located at a printable position with respect to the label printer module during printing of the label.
US08262216B2 Inkjet printing apparatus, liquid application mechanism and method of controlling the liquid application mechanism
Even if a liquid is attached and solidified on a peripheral surface of a coating roller, application of the liquid on a medium is uniformly performed. At least a part of contacting member is separated from the coating roller and the coating roller is rotated in a second direction as a reverse direction to a first direction to pull out the liquid from a liquid retaining space onto the coating roller. Next, by interrupting the above separation and rotating the coating roller in the first direction, a liquid reservoir is formed in the periphery of a contacting portion between the coating roller and the contacting member.
US08262212B2 Liquid discharging apparatus and image forming method
A liquid discharging apparatus includes: nozzles which discharge liquid which is cured by the irradiation of electromagnetic waves; an irradiation section which irradiates the electromagnetic waves to dots formed on a medium by the liquid discharged from the nozzles; and a controller which controls the discharging of the liquid from the nozzles and changes the irradiation amount of the electromagnetic waves that the irradiation section irradiates, according to methods of forming the dots.
US08262207B2 Ink-jet head and ink-jet device
An ink jet ejection head suitable for realizing maintenance of an ink jet head in such a manner as restoring ink ejection performance and ensuring satisfactory application free from an ejection failure in one or more nozzles. The ink jet ejection head of a liquid material application apparatus has an ink jet head, a head holding member for holding the ink jet head in a detachable manner, and a changing-over mechanism connected to a liquid supply passage and a pressurized air supply passage. The changing-over mechanism selectively supplies one of a liquid and pressurized air to the ink jet head. The liquid material application apparatus includes the ink jet ejection head.
US08262206B2 Inkjet printer with variable size tanks
An inkjet printer includes a recording head configured to eject ink onto a recording medium, an ink tank configured to store the ink to be supplied to the recording head, the ink tank having an expandable and contractible bellows portion, and at least one deformation-preventing member configured to contact an outer surface of the bellows portion and configured to prevent the ink tank from deforming in a direction intersecting with an expanding and contracting direction in which the ink tank expands and contracts.
US08262202B2 Liquid ejecting head, liquid ejecting apparatus and piezoelectric element
A liquid ejecting head including a pressure generating chamber that communicates with a nozzle opening that ejects liquid and a piezoelectric element that generates a pressure change in the pressure generating chamber. The piezoelectric element includes a first electrode, a piezoelectric body layer that is formed on the first electrode which includes a grain-shaped region, and a second electrode that is formed on a side of the piezoelectric body layer that is opposite to the first electrode.
US08262199B2 Droplet jetting head, method of manufacturing droplet jetting head, and droplet jetting apparatus equipped with droplet jetting head
A droplet jetting head that is obtained by bonding a first substrate 22 in which a through hole 20 is formed, and a second substrate 18r having a pressure chamber 12 together with an adhesive 24 is provided wherein an end of a surface of the through hole 20 in the first substrate 22 that contacts the adhesive 24 has a round shape having a curvature radius of from 1 to 100 μm.
US08262198B2 Head attachment member, liquid ejection device, and head attachment method
A plurality of liquid ejection heads is attached to a head attachment member. The head attachment member is disposed so as to face a support drum for supporting an ejection-receiving medium and rotating about a shaft. The head attachment member includes a pair of plate-shaped members each having an attachment surface to which a plurality of head groups each including the liquid ejection heads is attached and a back surface extending parallel to the attachment surface. End parts of the plate-shaped members are connected to each other so as to be able to rotate about a hinge part so that an angle formed by the attachment surfaces is adjustable.
US08262195B2 Recording head cleaning apparatus, image recording apparatus and recording head cleaning method
The recording head cleaning apparatus cleans a nozzle surface of a recording head that is disposed at an inclination with respect to horizontal. The recording head cleaning apparatus includes: an application roller having a substantially conical shape of which a circumferential surface holds cleaning liquid and has an inclination corresponding to the inclination of the nozzle surface, an axis of the substantially conical shape being a rotational axis of the application roller; and a rotating device which rotates the application roller on the rotational axis to apply the cleaning liquid to the nozzle surface while not making the application roller in contact with the nozzle surface.
US08262193B2 Liquid Droplet jetting apparatus
A liquid droplet jetting apparatus includes a jetting head unit which jets liquid droplet from nozzles, and which is displaced in a jetting direction in which the liquid droplets are jetted and in an opposite direction opposite to the jetting direction, a capping mechanism including a cap covering a nozzle opening surface in which the nozzles of the jetting head unit open, and performing a capping operation in which the cap is moved in the opposite direction from a stand-by position, which is away from the nozzle opening surface, to a capping position at which the cap covers the nozzle opening surface, a stopper which is arranged with a spacing distance from the jetting head unit, and which regulates a displacement of the jetting head unit in the opposite direction, and a first buffer which is arranged between the jetting head unit and the stopper.
US08262190B2 Method and system for measuring and compensating for process direction artifacts in an optical imaging system in an inkjet printer
A printer operating method enables a controller to identify process direction errors in an optical imaging system. The method includes identifying a printhead roll error for each printhead in a plurality of printheads in a printer, moving each printhead by an amount that corrects the printhead roll error for the corresponding printhead, generating a plurality of dashes on media with the plurality of printheads as the media moves past the plurality of printheads, identifying a position for each dash in the process direction from image data of the plurality of dashes on the media, identifying a displacement in the process direction for each optical detector in a linear array of optical detectors used to generated the image data of the plurality of dashes, the displacement being identified with reference to the identified positions for the dashes, and operating the printer to compensate for the identified displacements of the optical detectors.
US08262189B2 Conveyance device and image forming apparatus
A conveyance device includes a linear encoder that outputs an encoder signal corresponding to displacement of a conveyed object. The encoder includes an encoder fence provided on an intersecting plane that intersects a reference plane orthogonal to a direction in which a guide element supports the conveyed object. The encoder fence is configured such that a plurality of light-transmitting portions and light-shielding portions are arranged alternately on a side of the encoder fence. The light-transmitting portions and the light-shielding portions are formed so that a first point on each boundary between each of the light-transmitting portions and each of the light-shielding portions adjacent to each other and a second point on the each boundary, which is positioned separately from the first point with respect to a direction along the side of the encoder fence and perpendicular to the conveying direction, are separately positioned with respect to the conveying direction.
US08262187B2 Off-line printhead inspection and recovery unit for production piezo ink jet architectures
A method and apparatus for printhead inspection and recovery in an ink jet printing system includes a modular printhead assembly disposed within the printing system for on-line printing operation. An off-line printhead inspection and recovery unit including a printhead dock for receiving the printhead assembly is locally disposed for ready diagnostic inspection of printhead operation and includes a user interface for reporting diagnostic results. A modular printhead assembly is disposed within the off-line printhead inspection and recovery unit for identifying the head failure to an operator. The inspection and recovery unit may execute a printhead purge and maintenance cycle to repair the failing on-line printing assembly. The inspection and recovery unit maintains a spare head assembly in a heated print-ready state for minimal downtime in production operation upon the replacement of the failing printhead with the spare head from the inspection and recovery unit.
US08262186B2 Pre-leveler cooling device for continuous feed imaging devices
A temperature leveling system for thermally conditioning ink deposited onto a print media includes a non-contact cooling device for reducing temperatures of ink deposited onto a print media to a first average temperature. A leveler includes a thermal control for maintaining the leveler at a second temperature that is different than the first average temperature. The leveler is configured to bring the temperatures of the ink to within a predetermined range about the second temperature after the reduction in temperature at the non-contact cooling device. A heater is positioned to heat the ink and media to a third temperature after the leveler, the third temperature being greater than the second temperature.
US08262185B2 Recording apparatus and processing method executed by the recording apparatus
A recording apparatus configured to cause a recording head to move and scan in a reciprocating manner includes a buffer configured to store raster data including multivalued data, a table in which a plurality of dot patterns is defined for a value of the multivalued data and including a dot pattern corresponding to the value, a first information storage unit configured to store an initial value of the dot pattern according to a direction of scanning by the recording head and the value of the multivalued data, a second information storage unit configured to store information indicating an empty raster, and a generation unit configured to, based on the initial value stored by the first information storage unit and the table, read the multivalued data from the buffer and generate a dot pattern based on the read multivalued data.
US08262183B2 Capacitive load driving device and fluid ejection device
A capacitive load driving device includes a drive waveform generator adapted to generate a drive waveform signal, a subtraction section adapted to output a differential signal between the drive waveform signal and two feedback signals, a modulator adapted to perform pulse modulation on the differential signal to obtain a modulated signal; a digital power amplifier adapted to power-amplify the modulated signal to obtain an amplified digital signal, a low pass filter including an inductor and a capacitor, and adapted to smooth the amplified digital signal to obtain a drive signal of a capacitive load, a first feedback circuit adapted to feedback the drive signal to the subtraction section as a first feedback signal, and a second feedback circuit adapted to set forward a phase of the drive signal and to feed back the drive signal to the subtraction section as a second feedback signal.
US08262177B2 Refrigerator shelf assembly
A shelf assembly for use in a refrigerator includes a shelf panel and a pair of opposite support rails. The shelf panel has upwardly angled perimeter regions and may comprise a strengthened glass material, such as a transparent strengthened glass material, such as tempered glass. Each of the support rails includes a base portion and an angled portion that extends at an angle from the base portion. The angled portions of the support rails are bonded along the lower surface of the upwardly angled side perimeter regions of the shelf panel.
US08262176B2 Refrigerator
A refrigerator is provided. The refrigerator includes a main body, a refrigerator door, a homebar door, a basket, and a connecting device. The main body defines a storage compartment. The refrigerator door is pivotably coupled to the main body and defines an opening. The homebar door is on the refrigerator door, to selectively open and close the opening. The basket is pivotably provided on the refrigerator door. The connecting device connects the homebar door and the basket to tilt the basket when the homebar door is pivoted. When the door is pivoted, the basket can easily be tilted.
US08262175B2 Drawer fitting
A drawer fitting fixes a drawer side to a drawer front panel. The fitting includes a holding plate for mounting the fitting to the drawer front panel, the holding plate having a flange extending in a direction parallel to a drawer side, the flange having forwardly-disposed guide noses, a clamping plate having a forwardly-disposed angled flange, a guide clip mountable on the clamping plate such that the drawer side front end can be positioned between the holding plate flange and the guide clip, the guide clip having resiliently depressible projecting tails and an assembly screw that passes through and couples together the clamping plate and guide clip, and is received in an aperture in the holding plate flange through a recess in the front end of the drawer side.
US08262173B2 System and method for remotely releasing a parking brake on a disabled vehicle
A system and method of remotely controlling the parking brake of a disabled vehicle to be towed by a towing vehicle includes using the hydraulic fluid of towing vehicle to control the parking brake operation of the disabled vehicle. The towing vehicle is equipped with a control valve and brake release manifold assembly. The brake release manifold assembly provides a source of hydraulic fluid of controlled pressure. The towing vehicle has means to connect the controlled pressure hydraulic fluid of the towing vehicle to the parking brake system. The towing vehicle also has means to control and monitor the flow of hydraulic fluid to the disabled vehicle in order to either release or apply the brakes when desired.
US08262171B2 Power-assist brake system equipped with adhesive joint and method for mounting same
In order to allow a single operator on a vehicle assembly line to attach a brake servo to a bulkhead by moving round from the engine compartment side to the passenger compartment side, a brake servo is fitted with an adhesive and insulating seal (14). This seal has two adhesive faces and each of the two adhesive faces has a protective film provided with a tab (15, 16); each protective film is of a distinctive color. One of the two protective films has cuts (17) along holes (10) in the seal, these cuts being intended to make it easier for the protective film to be removed as the brake servo is mounted against the bulkhead.
US08262168B2 Multiple milling drums secured to the underside of a single milling machine
In one aspect of the present invention, a motorized vehicle comprises a vehicle frame. The vehicle frame comprises translatable elements. The frame comprises a forward end and a rearward end. The invention comprises of a first rotary degradation drum that is connected to the underside of the frame. The invention comprises of at least a second rotary degradation drum also connected to the underside of the frame and rearward of the first rotary degradation drum.