Document Document Title
US08269083B2 String instrument frets and associated fret optical apparatus
An instrument comprising a body, a neck and a plurality of strings. The neck comprises a first end having a headstock, a fretboard, at least one mineral fret coupled to the fretboard, and a second end one of coupled and integrated to the body. The mineral fret may be generally transparent.
US08269082B2 Cereals with altered dormancy
The present invention relates to polypeptides, and polynucleotides encoding therefor, which influence seed dormancy in cereals such as wheat and barley. In particular, the present invention relates to polypeptides with ABA 8′-hydroxylase activity, and polynucleotides encoding these proteins. Also provided are cereal plants which produce seeds that have altered rates of germination, and/or levels of dormancy, when compared to seeds from wild-type plants, as well as methods of producing such plants.
US08269081B1 Maize variety hybrid X8M165
A novel maize variety designated X8M165 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X8M165 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X8M165 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X8M165, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X8M165. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X8M165.
US08269080B1 Inbred maize variety PH18T3
A novel maize variety designated PH18T3 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH18T3 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH18T3 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH18T3 or a locus conversion of PH18T3 with another maize variety.
US08269078B2 Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH842817
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH842817. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH842817, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH842817 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH842817.
US08269074B2 Soybean cultivar 90282601
A soybean cultivar designated 90282601 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar 90282601, to the plants of soybean 90282601, to plant parts of soybean cultivar 90282601, and to methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing soybean cultivar 90282601 with itself or with another soybean variety. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. This invention also relates to soybean cultivars, or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean variety 90282601, to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 90282601, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing the cultivar 90282601 with another soybean cultivar.
US08269072B2 Soybean variety A1016117
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated A1016117. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety A1016117. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety A1016117 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety A1016117 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.
US08269063B2 Methods for identifying proteins with starch phosphorylating enzymatic activity
The present invention relates to a method for identifying proteins involved in the phosphorylation of starch and nucleic acids which code for such proteins. The present invention further relates to plant cells and plants which exhibit an altered activity of a protein which can be identified using the method according to the invention. Plant cells and plants of this type synthesise a modified starch. The present invention therefore also relates to the starch synthesised by the plant cells and plants according to the invention as well as to methods for the manufacture of this starch and to the manufacture of starch derivatives of this modified starch.
US08269062B2 Lunaria annua, Cardamine graeca and Teesdalia nudicaulis FAE genes and their use in producing nervonic and eicosenoic acids in seed oils
This invention relates to nucleic acid sequences coding for a Lunaria annua, Cardamine graeca or Teesdalia nudicaulis fatty acid elongase, yeast cells expressing the genes/enzymes, plants themselves and cells of such plants and seeds which contain a heterologous gene coding for a L. annua, C. graeca or T. nudicaulis fatty acid elongase gene, the plant or seed being capable of producing increased proportion of a very long chain monounsaturated fatty acid, especially nervonic acid and eicosenoic acid, beyond that of a control plant or seed lacking the heterologous FAE gene or genes.
US08269057B2 System and process for alkylation
A method for alkylating a hydrocarbon comprising at least one isoparaffin and at least one olefin by introducing liquid acid catalyst and the hydrocarbon into a high shear reactor, forming an emulsion comprising droplets comprising hydrocarbon in a continuous acid phase, wherein the droplets have a mean diameter of less than about 5 μm, introducing the emulsion into a vessel operating under suitable alkylation conditions whereby at least a portion of the isoparaffin is alkylated with the olefin to form alkylate, and removing a product stream comprising alkylate from the vessel. A system for carrying out the method is also disclosed.
US08269053B2 Process for toluene and methane coupling in a microreactor
A process for making ethylbenzene and/or styrene by reacting toluene with methane in one or more microreactors is disclosed. In one embodiment a method of revamping an existing styrene production facility by adding one or more microreactors capable of reacting toluene with methane to produce a product stream comprising ethylbenzene and/or styrene is disclosed.
US08269050B2 Process for preparing ethyl tert-butyl ether from technical mixtures of C4 hydrocarbons
The invention relates to a process for preparing ETBE from technical mixtures which comprise at least 1-butene, isobutene, n-butane and 2-butenes, by reacting the isobutene present, distillatively removing a fraction comprising 1-butene and isobutene and again reacting the isobutene present therein to give ETBE.
US08269049B2 Method of producing diethylene-glycol tert-butyl ether using isobutylene and diethylene glycol
The present invention fabricates diethylene-glycol tert-butyl ether (DEGtBE) by using isobutylene and diethylene glycol (DEG) coordinated with an acidic cation exchanged resin as catalyst. Through two stages of vacuum distillations, highly selective and pure DEGtBE is produced. Moreover, a byproduct of diethylene-glycol di-tert-butyl ether (DEGDtBE) can be recycled.
US08269048B2 Allylic oxidation method for the preparation of fragrances using metal-organic compounds and gold catalysts
The present invention refers to a method for allylic catalytic oxidation to obtain α,β-unsaturated ketones and alcohols from bicyclic compounds reacted with oxygen and catalysts comprising metal-organic compounds and gold nanoparticles. The present invention also relates to a method for the preparation of fragrances using the above methods or products of the above method.
US08269045B2 Substituted pyrazinecarboxylic acid anilide derivatives or salts thereof, intermediates of the same, pesticides for agricultural and horticultural use, and usage thereof
Substituted pyrazinecarboxylic acid anilide derivatives represented by the general formula (I) or salts thereof; intermediates of them; pesticides (such as insecticides and acaricides) for agricultural and horticultural use, containing the compounds as the active ingredient; and usage thereof: wherein R1 is H, C1-6 alkyl, halo C1-6 alkyl, or the like; R2 is halogeno, C1-6 alkyl, or the like; G is C2-10 alkyl or the like; Z is oxygen or sulfur; X's are each independently H, halogeno, or the like; Y's are each independently H, halogeno, cyano, or the like; and m and n are each an integer of 1 to 3.
US08269037B2 Absorption medium for removing acid gases which comprises amino acid and acid promoter
An absorption medium for removing acid gases from a fluid stream comprises an aqueous solution of a) of at least one metal salt of an aminocarboxylic acid, and b) of at least one acid promoter, wherein the molar ratio of b) to a) is in the range from 0.0005 to 1.0. The acid promoter is selected from mineral acids, carboxylic acids, sulfonic acids, organic phosphonic acids and partial esters thereof. The absorption medium, compared with absorption media based on amino acid salts, has a reduced regeneration energy requirement without significantly reducing the absorption capacity of the solution for acid gases. In a process for removing acid gases from the fluid stream, the fluid stream is brought into contact with the absorption medium.
US08269036B2 Processes for producing an oxalate by coupling of CO
Provided are processes for producing an oxalate by coupling of CO in the presence of a nitrite, wherein two or more reaction zones in series are used, and at least a portion of the oxalate as reaction product is separated between the reaction zones, and/or the nitrite is fed stagewise. The processes described herein can effectively enhance the selectivity to the oxalate and the single-pass conversion of the feedstock.
US08269033B2 Process for carbonylating phenylalkyl derivatives by means of carbon monoxide
The invention is directed a process of preparing a compound of formula (I), wherein R1, R2, R3 and z are as defined herein.
US08269031B2 Phosphorylcholine group-containing compound, method of manufacturing a phosphorylcholine group-containing compound, surface-modifying agent, and a method of modifying a surface using a surface-modifying agent
A phosphorylcholine group-containing compound that is a structure having a phosphorylcholine group represented by the following formula 1 and an amino group or a group derived from an amino group in an identical compound. (In the formula, m is 2 or more and 6 or less and p is 1 or 2. Each of X1, X2 and X3 is an alkyl group whose carbon number is 1 or more and 6 or less.)
US08269026B2 Lupane derivatives useful for treating HIV
The invention relates to 21-keto triterpene compounds of formula (I): wherein R1, X, and Y are as defined herein, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts and solvates thereof. These compounds exhibit significant anti-HIV activity. Thus, the invention also relates to methods for prevention or treatment of HIV infections by administering therapeutically effective amounts of a compound of formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof to a subject in need of such treatment.
US08269023B2 Process for preparation of duloxetine hydrochloride
An improved process for synthesis of duloxetine hydrochloride (1) having chiral purity greater than 99.9% that is characterized by the following: (i) preparation of racemic condensed compound (RS)—N,N-di methyl-3-(1-naphthyloxy)-3-(2-thienyl)propanamine (4) by reaction of racemic hydroxy compound (2) with 1-fluoronaphthalene (3) in presence of a base such as sodamide, potassium amide or potassium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide (KHDMS) in polar aprotic solvent, (ii) optical resolution of racemic condensed compound (5a+5b) with di-benzoyl-L-tartaric acid (7, DBTA, R=H) or di-para-anisoyl-L-tartaric acid (7, DATA, R=OCH3) to obtain crude (S)—N.N-dimethyl-3-(1-naphthyloxy)-3-(2-thienyl)propanamine dibenzoyl tartarate salt (8a) or (S)—N.N-dimethyl-3-(1-naphthyloxy)-3-(2-thienyl)propanamine di-p-anisoyl tartarate salt (9a) respectively, (iii) optionally purification of crude tartarate salts (8a or 9a) by crystallization, (iv) optionally purification of duloxetine hydrochloride (1) by crystallization and (v) racemization of undesired (R)—N,N-di methyl-3-(1-naphthyloxy)-3-(2-thienyl)propanamine (5b) by treatment with base potassium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide (KHDMS) to obtain racemic mixture of condensed compounds (5a and 5b).
US08269021B2 Aromatic imide-based dispersant for carbon nanotubes and carbon nanotube composition comprising the same
Disclosed herein are an aromatic imide-based dispersant for CNTs and a carbon nanotube composition comprising the same. Having an aromatic ring structure advantageously realizing adsorption on carbon nanotubes, the dispersant, even if used in a small amount, can disperse a large quantity of carbon nanotubes.
US08269014B2 Thiophene analogues for the treatment or prevention of flavivirus infections
Compounds represented by formula I: or pharmaceutically acceptable salts and solvates thereof, wherein R1, X, Y, and Z are as defined herein, are useful for treating flaviviridae viral infections.
US08269011B2 Quinolone compound and pharmaceutical composition
The present invention provides a quinolone compound represented by General Formula (1) or a salt thereof, wherein R1 represents a hydrogen atom, etc.; R2 represents a hydrogen atom, etc.; R3 represents a phenyl group optionally being substituted with one or more substituents, etc.; R4 represents a halogen atom; R5 represents a hydrogen atom or halogen atom; R6 represents a hydrogen atom; and R7 represents a hydroxyl group, etc. The quinolone compound have a functional improvement effect, which suppresses progression of neurological dysfunction by inhibiting the chronic progression of Parkinson's disease or protecting dopamine neurons from the disease etiology, thereby prolonging the period before first administration begins.
US08269010B2 3-amino-pyridine derivatives for the treatment of metabolic disorders
The present invention provides novel compounds represented by the general formula (I): their pharmaceutically acceptable salts and their pharmaceutically acceptable solvates thereof, which are useful in treating metabolic disorders related to insulin resistance or hyperglycemia. The invention also relates to a process for the manufacture of compounds of formula (I) and pharmaceutical compositions containing them.
US08269009B2 Methods and compositions for treating liquid tumors
The application relates to a method of using compositions having anti-alpha-4 integrin and/or anti-alpha-9 integrin activity to inhibit liquid tumor growth, malignancies thereof and/or development of metastases thereof that involve expression of an alpha-4 integrin and/or alpha-9 integrin. Pharmaceutical compositions and combination therapies (for example, with chemotherapies) for the inhibition of liquid tumor growth, malignancies thereof and/or development of metastases thereof are also provided.
US08269008B2 Oxazolopyridine and isoxazolopyridine derivatives for use in the treatment of HIF-mediated conditions
The present invention relates to novel compounds capable of modulating the stability and/or activity of hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) by inhibiting the activity of at least one HIF hydroxylase enzyme.
US08269007B2 Crystalline form II of 7-(dimethoxy-methyl) camptothecin, its use as intermediate and products obtained therefrom
This invention relates to a process for preparing a crystalline form of (4S)-11(dimethoxymethyl)-4-ethyl-4-hydroxy-1H-pyrano[3′4′:6,7]indolizino[1,2-b]quinoline-3,14(4H,12H)-dione, also named 7-(dimethoxy-methyl)camptothecin). With the provision of a particular crystallization step, in appropriate way, a new crystalline form of the above compound is obtained. The process for the preparation of the polymorph Form II comprises transforming camptothecin to the corresponding 7-(dimethoxy-methyl)-camptothecin, and crystallizing from methanol.
US08268997B2 Phenyl-substituted 1,3,5-triazine compound, process for producing the same, and organic electroluminescent device containing the same as component
A phenyl-substituted 1,3,5-triazine compound represented by the general formula (1); wherein Ar1 and Ar2 independently represent substituted or unsubstituted phenyl, naphthyl or biphenylyl group; R1, R2 and R3 independently represent hydrogen atom or methyl group; X1 and X2 independently represent substituted or unsubstituted phenylene, naphthylene or pyridylene group; p and q independently represent an integer of 0 to 2; and Ar3 and Ar4 independently represent substituted or unsubstituted pyridyl or phenyl group. This compound is suitable for an organic electroluminescent device.
US08268996B2 Compounds and compositions as cathepsin S inhibitors
The invention provides compounds, pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds and methods of using such compounds to treat or prevent diseases or disorders associated with the activity of Cathepsin S.
US08268993B1 Processes for preparing certain hexaazaisowurtzitanes and their use in preparing hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane
A heavy-metal-free sequence leading to a superior, more economical, and scalable process for the high efficiency conversion of hexaallylhexaazaisowurtzitane (HAllylIW) to hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane (CL-20).
US08268992B2 Thiolactams and uses thereof
This invention provides compounds of formula I: wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, and R6 are as described in the specification. The compounds are inhibitors of PLK and are thus useful for treating proliferative, inflammatory, or cardiovascular disorders.
US08268990B2 Compounds
The present invention provides compounds of formula (I) wherein R1, R2, R3 and R4 are as defined in the specification, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, as well as processes for their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use in therapy.
US08268972B2 Humanized anti-C5aR antibodies
The present invention is directed to humanized antibodies which bind the human C5a receptor and their use as therapeutic and diagnostic agents. The present invention is further directed toward nucleic acid sequences which encode said humanized antibodies, and their expression in recombinant host cells. In particular, the present invention is directed towards humanized antibodies derived from murine antibody 7F3 which specifically binds to the human C5a receptor.
US08268966B2 Binding molecules for the treatment of myeloid cell malignancies
Provided is a human C-type lectin, binding molecules that specifically bind to the human C-type lectin, nucleic acid molecules encoding the binding molecules or the human C-type lectin, compositions comprising the binding molecules or the human C-type lectin and methods of identifying or producing the binding molecules. The human C-type lectin is specifically expressed on myeloid cells and binding molecules capable of specifically binding to the human C-type lectin can be used in the diagnosis, prevention and/or treatment of neoplastic disorders and diseases.
US08268965B2 Template-directed assembly of receptor signaling complexes
Transmembrane receptors in the signaling pathways of bacterial chemotaxis systems influence cell motility by forming noncovalent complexes with the cytoplasmic signaling proteins to regulate their activity. The requirements for receptor-mediated activation of CheA, the principal kinase of the Escherichia coli chemotaxis signaling pathway, can be demonstrated using self-assembled clusters of a receptor fragment (CF) derived from the cytoplasmic domain of the aspartate receptor, Tar. Histidine-tagged Tar CF can be assembled on the surface of unilamellar vesicles via a lipid containing the Nickel-nitrilotriacetic acid moiety as a headgroup. The stability of such a complex can be controlled by the properties of the template including the size and composition, which can be used, for example, to vary the 2-dimensional concentration of receptor fragments. Surface-assembled CF is also found to serve as a substrate for receptor methylation, which is catalyzed by the receptor transferase. Since neither CheA activation nor CF methylation is observed in comparable samples in the absence of vesicles, it is concluded that surface-templating generates the organization among CF subunits required for biochemical activity.
US08268959B2 Energetic polyphosphazenes
This invention describes the synthesis and use of novel energetic poly(phosphazene) materials suitable for binding high explosives. These materials may also be used as explosives in their own right. The materials possess high energy density and are highly amenable to chemical modification thereby allowing for modification to the physical properties of the material. In particular the tacky and rubbery nature of these materials makes them ideal for use as binder and co-binder materials.
US08268958B2 Phospholipid copolymers
The present disclosure provides copolymers including a first monomer including at least one phospholipid possessing at least one hydroxyl group and a second monomer including a cyclic monomer. Compositions, medical devices, and coatings including such copolymers are also provided.
US08268954B2 Method for making copolymers of lactide and a 1:4-3:6 dianhydrohexitol
Polyester-carbonate copolymers are prepared by copolymerizing lactide with a 1:4-3:6 dianhydrohexitol in the presence of a carbonate precursor and a polymerization catalyst. The copolymers have an elevated glass transition temperature, relative to polylactide resins.
US08268953B2 Polycarbonate containing plant-derived component and process for the preparation thereof
A process for the preparation of a polycarbonate containing a plant-derived component excellent in hue by using a plant-derived anhydrosugar alcohol represented by the following formula (1) or a composition thereof as a raw material: wherein R1 to R4 each independently represent a group selected from a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group, a cycloalkyl group and an aryl group.
US08268947B2 Addition reaction to fluoroallylfluorosulfate
The invention pertains to a process for preparing compounds of formula (I-A) or (I-B) here below: by reaction of perfluoroallylfluorosulfate (FAFS) of formula (II): with at least one hypofluorite of formula (II-A) or (II-B): wherein: RF in formulae (I-A) and (II-A) is a monovalent fluorocarbon C1-C20 group, optionally comprising oxygen catenary atoms, optionally comprising functional groups comprising heteroatoms (e.g. —SO2F groups); R′F in formulae (I-B) and (II-B) is a divalent fluorocarbon C1-C6 group, preferably a group of formula wherein X1 and X2, equal to or different from each other, are independently a fluorine atom or a C1-C3 fluorocarbon group. The FAFS-hypofluorite adducts of formulae (I-A) and (I-B) can be produced with high selectivity so as to access useful intermediates which can further be reacted taking advantage of the un-modified fluorosulfate group chemistry.
US08268945B2 Catalyst component for ethylene polymerization, preparation thereof, and a catalyst comprising the catalyst component
A catalyst component for ethylene polymerization, comprising an organic silicon compound of the formula (I), below wherein R1 is chosen from C3-C20 aliphatic hydrocarbyl groups, and is substituted with at least one substituent chosen from halogens, C1-C6 acyloxy groups, epoxy, amino, C1-C6 alkylamino groups, di(C1-C6 alkyl)amino groups, C1-C6 alkoxy groups, and oxo group; R2, R3 and R4, which may be the same or different, are each chosen from C1-C10 aliphatic hydrocarbyl, C3-C10 alicyclic hydrocarbyl, C6-C10 aryl, C7-C10 aralkyl, and C7-C10 alkaryl groups. A process for preparing the catalyst component and an active catalyst comprising the catalyst component and useful in polymerization, such as ethylene polymerization.
US08268942B2 Production of polymers by spray polymerization
Water-absorbing polymeric particles are produced by spray polymerization of a monomer solution in a process wherein the monomer solution is spray dispensed and at least one crosslinker accumulates in the region of the droplet surface, and are useful in hygiene articles.
US08268941B2 Process for polymerising or oligomerising a hydrocarbon
A process for polymerizing or oligomerising a hydrocarbon includes feeding at a low level a liquid hydrocarbon reactant into a bulk liquid phase comprising polymeric or oligomeric product admixed with a catalyst. The liquid hydrocarbon reactant is allowed to vaporise to form bubbles rising through the bulk liquid phase and to polymerise or oligomerise to form the polymeric or oligomeric product, with the rising bubbles creating turbulence in the bulk liquid phase, thereby mixing the bulk liquid phase. Gaseous components comprising any unreacted vaporised hydrocarbon reactant and any gaseous product that may have formed are withdrawn from a head space above the bulk liquid phase. Liquid phase from the bulk liquid phase is withdrawn to maintain the bulk liquid phase at a desired level.
US08268938B2 Maleimide based compound, composition for forming board, and board fabricated using the same
Disclosed is a composition for forming a board. The composition includes a maleimide-based compound including at least three maleimide groups and a liquid crystalline polymer or oligomer. A prepreg and a board are each fabricated using the composition.
US08268936B2 Synthesis of hybrid block copolymers and uses thereof
The present invention relates to the field of polymer chemistry and more particularly to multiblock copolymers and methods of preparing the same.
US08268927B2 Redispersible polymer powders prepared from blends of carboxylate
A water redispersible polymer powder is produced by drying an aqueous mixture of a high Tg carboxylated styrene butadiene polymer and a low Tg carboxylated styrene butadiene polymer, where the ratio of the mean or average particle size of the high Tg polymer to the particle size of the low Tg polymer is from 1:1 to 5:1, preferably from 1:1 to 3:1, and the amount of the high Tg polymer is from 20 wt. % to 35 wt. %, preferably from 25 wt. % to 30 wt. %, based upon the total weight of the high Tg polymer and the low Tg polymer. Cement compositions such as mortars, which contain the redispersible polymer powder exhibit unexpectedly superior high bond strength and high impact resistance.
US08268926B2 Particle-toughened polymer compositions
Particle-toughened polymer compositions include a base polymer formulation and a plurality of toughening particles. In certain embodiments, the base polymer formulation includes bismaleimides or other polymer resins capable of high temperature service. A first plurality of toughening particles may include core shell rubbers. A second plurality of toughening particles may be selected from a variety of polymer compositions, including polyimides, polyether ketone (PEK), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polyether ketone ketone (PEKK), polyether imide, polyether sulfones, and polyphenylene oxide. It is found that increasing concentration of the core shell rubbers may improve the toughness of the composition while preserving thermal properties of the composition, such as glass transition temperature.
US08268925B2 Graft copolymer and compositions thereof
The invention relates to a graft copolymer with a polyester side chain and at least one quaternised tertiary amine group. The tertiary amine may be aliphatic, aromatic or heterocyclic. The invention further relates to the use of the compound as a dispersant, particularly for pigments.
US08268924B2 Polyolefin composition comprising crosslinkable polyolefin with silane groups, silanol condensation catalyst and pigment
The present invention is directed to particular titanium dioxide containing compositions which allow the retention of a high crosslinking performance of a polyolefin composition comprising a crosslinkable polyolefin with hydrolysable silane groups, a Brönstedt acid silanol condensation catalyst and said titanium dioxide containing composition. The retention of the high crosslinking performance is shown by a difference in torque measured at 120° C. of 40 Nm or higher.
US08268923B2 Production of solutions of vinyl polymers in reactive monomers
The invention relates to a method for producing solutions of vinyl polymers in reactive monomers by a) polymerizing by radical initiation one or more ethylene unsaturated monomers selected from the group comprising vinyl esters, acrylic acid esters, and methacrylic acid esters, and optionally one or more further ethylene unsaturated monomers, and subsequently b) optionally distilling off volatile components, and c) optionally adding one or more inert solvents, d) mixing with one or more reactive monomers, and e) optionally distilling off the inert solvent, characterized in that the vinyl polymers are not present as isolated solids in any of the steps a) through e).
US08268918B2 Crystalline polylactic acid resin composition and product molded/formed therefrom
There is provided a crystalline polylactic acid resin composition comprising 95 to 99.97 parts by mass of a polylactic acid resin (A) having a D-isomer content of not greater than 0.6 mol % or not less than 99.4 mol %, and 0.03 to 5 parts by mass of a crystal nucleus agent (B). There is also provided a crystalline polylactic acid resin composition prepared by melt-kneading 100 parts by mass of a polylactic acid resin (A) having a D-isomer content of not greater than 0.6 mol % or not less than 99.4 mol %, 0.01 to 20 parts by mass of a (meth)acrylate compound (C), and 0.02 to 20 parts by mass of a peroxide (D).
US08268912B2 Process for preparing an aqueous composite-particle dispersion
A process for preparing aqueous dispersions of composite particles using monomers containing silane groups.
US08268908B2 Pigment dispersion liquid, inkjet recording ink, inkjet recording method, ink cartridge and inkjet recording apparatus
To provide a pigment dispersion liquid which provides an ink capable of recording an image having high fixability and fastness such as scratch resistance and excellent quality stably for a long time in any conditions. A pigment dispersion liquid mainly containing a polymer dispersant, a coloring material and water, in which the polymer dispersant is formed of at least a hydrophobic unit and a hydrophilic unit, the hydrophobic unit having a block portion formed of at least one hydrophobic monomer, the coloring material is formed of a pigment having on its surface an acid form anionic group, and the pigment dispersion liquid further contains a basic compound capable of forming a complex with an alkaline metal.
US08268901B2 Coated particulate expandable polylactic acid
The present invention relates to a particulate expandable polylactic acid which functions as a starting material for producing foamed moulded products. The present particulate expandable polylactic acid is provided with a coating so as to improve the fusion properties. The present invention also relates to a method for producing a particulate expandable polylactic acid as well as to a method for producing a foamed moulded product and to the moulded product obtained thereby.
US08268896B2 Co-production of fuels, chemicals and electric power using gas turbines
A method and system for co-production of electric power, fuel, and chemicals in which a synthesis gas at a first pressure is expanded using a stand-alone mechanical expander or a partial oxidation gas turbine, simultaneously producing electric power and an expanded synthesis gas at a second pressure after which the expanded synthesis gas is converted to a fuel and/or a chemical.
US08268892B2 Pharmaceutical formulations of modafinil
Compositions of modafinil and methods of treating neurologically related conditions with the administration of modafinil. Also compositions that include modafinil and one or more excipients such as diluents, disintegrants, binders and lubricants.
US08268889B2 Treatment of ovarian cancer
Disclosed are methods of treating ovarian cancer by administering an effective amount of FTS (farnesylthiosalicylic acid), or various analogs thereof, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, optionally with, a platinum-based chemotherapy drug to a human diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
US08268888B2 Therapy of malignant neoplasias
The present invention provides a 3-iodo-L-phenylalanine or 4-iodo-L-phenylalanine for the preparation of a pharmaceutical composition for the treatment of malignant neoplasia. Moreover, the invention provides a method for the treatment of malignant neoplasia, the method comprising the steps of administering 3-iodo-L-phenylalanine or 4-iodo-L-phenylalanine to a subject in need thereof and a pharmaceutical composition comprising 3-iodo-L-phenylalanine or 4-iodo-L-phenylalanine.
US08268886B2 Pyrenyloxysulfonic acid fluorescent agents
The invention provides a novel class of reactive fluorescent agents that are based on a pyrene sulfonic acid nucleus. The agents are readily incorporated into conjugates with other species by reacting the reactive group with a group of complementary reactivity on the other species of the conjugate. Also provided are methods of using the compounds of the invention to detect and/or quantify an analyte in a sample. In an exemplary embodiment, the invention provides multi-color assays incorporating the compounds of the invention.
US08268882B2 Triptolide C-ring derivatives as anticancer agents and immune modulators
Disclosed are compounds based on C- and D-ring modifications of triptolide and hydroxylated triptolide, for use in therapy, such as antiproliferative, anticancer, and immunosuppressive therapy.
US08268880B2 Soft protease inhibitors and pro-soft forms thereof
The invention provides compounds and methods for inhibiting proteases. One aspect of the invention features pro-soft inhibitors which react with an activating protease to release an active inhibitor moiety in proximity to a target protease. In certain instances, compounds inhibit proteasomes and/or post-proline cleaving enzymes (PPCE), such as dipeptidyl peptidase IV. The compounds of the invention provide a better therapeutic index, owing in part to reduced toxicity and/or improved specificity for the targeted protease.
US08268879B2 3-3-di-substituted-oxindoles as inhibitors of translation initiation
Compositions and methods for inhibiting translation using 3-(5-tert-Butyl-2-Hydroxy-phenyl)-3-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-indol-2-one and/or its derivatives are provided. Compositions, methods and kits for treating (1) cellular proliferative disorders, (2) non-proliferative, degenerative disorders, (3) viral infections, and/or (4) disorders associated with viral infections, using 3-(5-tert-butyl-2-hydroxy-phenyl)-3-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-indol-2-one and/or its derivatives are described.
US08268878B2 Compounds having CRTH2 antagonist activity
Compounds of general formula (I) wherein R is phenyl optionally substituted with one or more halo substituents; and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts, hydrates, solvates, complexes or prodrugs are useful in orally administrable compositions for the treatment of allergic diseases such as asthma, allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis.
US08268877B2 Microbiocides
Compounds of formula (I) in which the substituents are as defined in claim 1, are suitable for use as microbiocides.
US08268876B2 Pharmaceutical composition for external use
Provided is a pharmaceutical composition for external use, including: (i) luliconazole represented by the following structural formula (1) and/or a salt thereof; and (ii) α-hydroxycarboxylic acid and/or a salt thereof.
US08268874B2 Anti-cancer compounds, synthesis thereof, and methods of using same
Embodiments relate to the field of chemistry and biochemistry, and, more specifically, to anti-cancer compounds, synthesis thereof, and methods of using same. Disclosed herein are various heterocyclic compounds and methods of using the novel anti-cancer compounds to inhibit the growth of a cancer cell, for instance a leukemia, non-small cell lung, central nervous system (CNS), skin, ovarian, renal, prostate, breast, or colon cancer cell. Other embodiments include methods of treating cancer in a subject, such as using the disclosed heterocyclic anti-cancer agents.
US08268872B2 Selective androgen receptor modulators
This invention provides compounds of formulas I, Ia, Ib, Ic, Id, Ie, If or Ig or salts thereof, pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of formulas I, Ia, Ib, Ic, Id, Ie, If or Ig and a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient, methods of modulating the androgen receptor, methods of treating diseases beneficially treated by an androgen receptor modulator (e.g., sarcopenia, prostate cancer, contraception, type 2 diabetes related disorders or diseases, anemia, depression, and renal disease) and processes for making compounds of formulas I, Ia, Ib, Ic, Id, Ie, If or Ig and intermediates useful in the preparation of same.
US08268871B2 Mitotic kinesin inhibitors and methods of use thereof
This invention relates to inhibitors of mitotic kinesins, particularly KSP, and methods for producing these inhibitors. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising the inhibitors of the invention and methods of utilizing the inhibitors and pharmaceutical compositions in the treatment and prevention of various disorders.
US08268868B2 5-pyridinone substituted indazoles
Various 5-substituted 1-substituted indazoles are described, as are pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds and methods of treatment of diseases using these compounds. Other embodiments are also described.
US08268866B2 Methods for the treatment of tinnitus induced by cochlear excitotoxicity
The invention relates to methods for the prevention and/or treatment of tinnitus induced by cochlear excitotoxicity. In these methods, a pharmaceutical composition comprising an NMDA receptor antagonist is administered to an individual in need of such treatment by appropriate devices and/or formulations for local administration to the inner ear. The tinnitus to be prevented and/or treated may be provoked by acoustic trauma, presbycusis, ischemia, anoxia, sudden deafness, or other cochlear excitotoxic-inducing occurrence.
US08268860B2 Sub-type selective amides of diazabicycloalkanes
Compounds, pharmaceutical compositions including the compounds, and methods of preparation and use thereof are disclosed. The compounds are amide compounds which can be prepared from certain heteroaryl carboxylic acids and certain diazabicycloalkanes. The compounds exhibit selectivity for, and bind with high affinity to, neuronal nicotinic receptors of the α4β2 subtype in the central nervous system (CNS). The compounds and compositions can be used to treat and/or prevent a wide variety of conditions or disorders, particularly CNS disorders. The compounds can: (i) alter the number of nicotinic cholinergic receptors of the brain of the patient, (ii) exhibit neuroprotective effects, and (iii) when employed in effective amounts, not result in appreciable adverse side effects (e.g. side effects such as significant increases in blood pressure and heart rate, significant negative effects upon the gastrointestinal tract, and significant effects upon skeletal muscle).
US08268855B2 1,6-dihydro-1,3,5,6-tetraaza-as-indacene based tricyclic compounds and pharmaceutical compositions comprising same
The present invention provides for tricyclic compounds having the formula (I), wherein R1, R2, R5, R6, R7, and R8 are as described herein. The present invention further provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds, as well as the use of such compounds for treating inflammatory and immune diseases.
US08268850B2 Pyrimidine derivatives and compositions as C-kit and PDGFR kinase inhibitors
The invention provides a novel class of pyrimidine derivatives, pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds and methods of using such compounds to treat or prevent diseases or disorders associated with abnormal or deregulated kinase activity, particularly diseases or disorders that involve abnormal activation of c-kit, PDGFRα and PDGFRβ kinases.
US08268847B2 Therapeutic compositions comprising a specific endothelin receptor antagonist and a PDE5 inhibitor
The invention relates to a product containing the compound of formula (I) below or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of this compound, in combination with at least one compound having PDE5-inhibitory properties, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, for therapeutic use, simultaneously, separately or over a period of time, in the treatment of a disease wherein vasoconstriction is involved.
US08268846B2 Amino heterocyclic linked pyrimidine derivatives
Macrocyclic benzofused pyrimidine compounds, compositions comprising such compounds, methods for making the compounds, and methods of treating and preventing the progression of diseases, conditions and disorders using such compounds and compositions are described herein.
US08268843B2 5,8-difluoro-4-(2-(4-(heteroaryloxy)-phenyl)ethylamino)quinazolines and their use as agrochemicals
The present disclosure relates to 5,8-difluoro-4-(2-(4-(heteroaryloxy)-phenyl)ethylamino)quinazolines and their use as agrochemicals and animal health products.
US08268842B2 Fused ring 4-oxopyrimidine derivative
The present invention provides a compound represented by formula (I) below, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, which, having histamine H3 receptor antagonist or inverse agonist activity, is useful in the prophylaxis or therapy of metabolic diseases, circulatory diseases, or nervous system diseases. [where, for example, Ar is a divalent group formed by eliminating two hydrogen atoms from benzene, X1 is a nitrogen atom, sulfur atom or oxygen atom, R1 is a 5- to 6-membered heteroaryl group, Ring A is a 5- to 6-membered heteroaryl ring, R2 and R3 are amino groups or alkylamino groups, and X2 is represented by formula (II): (where R4 and R5 are lower alkyl groups, and n is an integer from 2 to 4).]
US08268840B2 Pyrimidinyl pyridone inhibitors of kinases
This application discloses novel pyrimidinyl pyridone derivatives according to formula I, wherein A, R1, R2, R3, and m are defined as described herein, which inhibit JNK. The compounds disclosed herein are useful to modulate the activity of JNK and treat diseases associated with excessive JNK activity. The compounds are useful to treat autoimmune, inflammatory, metabolic, and neurological diseases as well as cancer. Also disclosed are compositions comprising the compound of formula I and methods of treatment comprising administering a therapeutically effective amount of the compound of formula I to a subject in need thereof.
US08268839B2 Compounds
The present invention relates to therapeutically active xanthine derivative compounds of Formula (I): corresponding processes for manufacture of said derivatives, pharmaceutical formulations containing and uses of such compounds in therapy, particularly in treatment of diseases where under-activation of the HM74A receptor contributes to the disease or where activation of the receptor will be beneficial.
US08268837B2 Use of c-Src inhibitors alone or in combination with STI571 for the treatment of leukaemia
The invention relates to a combination which comprises (a) at least one compound decreasing the c-Src activity and (b) N-{5-[4-(4-methyl-piperazino-methyl)-benzoylamido]-2-methylphenyl}-4-(3-pyridyl)-2-pyrimidine-amine or the monomethanesulfonate salt thereof; to pharmaceutical compositions comprising said combinations; and to a method of treating a warm-blooded animal having leukaemia, especially chronic myelogenous leukaemia, comprising administering to the animal at least one compound inhibiting the activity of a member of the Src kinase family, the Btk kinase family, the Tec kinase family or a Raf kinase inhibitor, in particular inhibiting the c-Src protein tyrosine kinase activity or inhibiting simultaneously the c-Src protein tyrosine kinase activity and the Bcr-Abl tyrosine kinase activity, alone or in combination with a Bcr-Abl inhibitor, in particular N-{5-[4-(4-methyl-piperazino-methyl)-benzoylamido]-2-methylphenyl}-4-(3-pyridyl)-2-pyrimidine-amine.
US08268836B2 Compound useful as a c-Met inhibitor
The present invention relates to a c-Met inhibitor or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof useful in treating cancer mediated by activity of c-Met receptors.
US08268832B2 Maleate salts of 6-(5-chloro-2-Pyridyl)-5-[(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)carbonyloxy]-7-oxo-6,7-dihydro-5H-pyrrolo[3,4-b]pyrazine
Pharmaceutical compositions of maleate salts of (6-(5-chloro-2-pyridyl)-5-[(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)carbonyloxy]-7-oxo-6,7-dihydro-5H-pyrrolo [3,4-b]pyrazine) are provided. The maleate salts are sleep agents useful in oral dosage forms.
US08268831B2 Compounds derived from 2-(3-methylenedioxy)-benzoyl indol
The present invention describes a series of derivatives of 2-(3-methylenedioxy)-benzoyl indol, their mixtures, their pharmaceutically acceptable salts, their enantiomers, pharmaceutical compositions comprising them, processes for preparing them, use in the prophylactic and/or curative treatment of sexual dysfunction. More specifically, the invention describes derivatives (R)-3-((2-(benzo[d][1,3]dioxol-5-carbonyl)-1H-indol-3-yl)methyl)-1-methylpiperazine-2,5-dione, and S)-3-((2-(benzo[d][1,3]dioxol-5-carbonyl)-1H-indol-3-yl)methyl)-1-methylpiperazine-2,5-dione.
US08268830B2 Method of using diketopiperazines and composition containing them
The invention provides a method of inhibiting the effects of platelet activating factor (PAF). For instance, a disease or condition mediated by PAF (particularly inflammation) can be treated or platelet aggregation can be inhibited. The invention also provides a method of inhibiting the production and/or release of interleukin 8 (IL-8) by cells. The effects of PAF and the production and/or release of IL-8 are inhibited according to the invention by a compound of the formula: wherein R1 and R2 are defined in the application, or a physiologically-acceptable salt thereof. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds.
US08268827B2 Pyridazinone derivatives as PARP inhibitors
The present invention relates to compounds of formula (I): and pharmaceutically acceptable salts or tautomers thereof which are inhibitors of poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase (PARP) and thus useful for the treatment of cancer, inflammatory diseases, reperfusion injuries, ischaemic conditions, stroke, renal failure, cardiovascular diseases, vascular diseases other than cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, neurodegenerative diseases, retroviral infections, retinal damage, skin senescence and UV-induced skin damage, and as chemo- or radiosensitizers for cancer treatment.
US08268826B2 Piperazinylpiperidine derivatives as chemokine receptor antagonists
The present invention relates to compounds of Formula I: wherein variable substituents are defined herein, that modulate the activity of or bind to chemokine receptors such as CCR5. In some embodiments, the compounds of the invention are selective for CCR5. The compounds can be used, for example, to treat diseases associated with chemokine receptor expression or activity such as inflammatory diseases, immune diseases and viral infections.
US08268825B2 Method for the treatment of anthrax infections
A method of treating an anthrax infection wherein a compound of formula I wherein R1 and R2 represent, independently of one another unsubstituted or specifically substituted C1-4alkoxy; and R3 represents hydrogen; cyano; unsubstituted or specifically substituted C1-6alkyl; C3-6cycloalkyl; C2-6alkenyl; C7-18bicyclyl; aryl, aryl-C1-4alkyl, aryl-Q-C1-4alkyl heteroaryl, heterocyclyl or heterocyclyl-C1-6alkyl, wherein aryl denotes a mono- or poly-nucleous group with 6 to 14 ring carbon atoms; heterocyclyl denotes a 4- to 6-membered non-aromatic heterocyclic group comprising 1 to 3, nitrogen, oxygen and/or sulfur atoms; heteroaryl denotes a mono- or polynuclear heteroaromatic group consisting 5- and/or 6-membered rings and comprising 5 to 13 carbon atoms and 1 to 4, nitrogen, oxygen and/or sulfur atoms; and Q means —SO— or —SO2—; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate or hydrate or a prodrug thereof; is administered to said subject in a quantity effective to inhibit, suppress, or expel an anthrax infection in said subject.
US08268821B2 Methods and compositions
The present invention relates generally to the field of pain management, and in particular, the management of neuropathic or inflammatory pain including a neuropathic or inflammatory component of nociceptive pain. More particularly, the present invention provides methods and compositions which treat, alleviate, prevent, diminish or otherwise ameliorate the symptoms of neuropathic or inflammatory pain. The present invention further contemplates combination therapy involved in the treatment of pain in association with the treatment of a particular disease condition or pathology. The present invention further also provides sustained and slow release formulations, tamper-proof deliver systems and stents, catheters and other mechanical devices coated with formulations which permit sustained or slow release of active ingredients involved in pain management.
US08268819B2 Hexahydrooxazinopterine compounds
The present invention relates to intermediates of the formula wherein G1 is N; G2 is selected from the group consisting of C═O and CH2; X is a halogen; and the other groups are defined herein.
US08268811B2 Thiazoles and pyrazoles useful as kinase inhibitors
The present invention relates to compounds useful as inhibitors of Aurora protein kinases. The invention also provides pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising those compounds and methods of using the compounds and compositions in the treatment of various disease, conditions, and disorders. The invention also provides processes for preparing compounds of the invention.
US08268802B2 Anti-proliferative compounds, compositions, and methods of use thereof
Compounds and compositions of Formula I are described, useful as anti-proliferative agents, and in particular anti-HPV, wherein: Y1A and Y1B are independently Y1; RX1 and RX2 are independently RX; Y1 is ═O, —O(RX), ═S, —N(RX), —N(O)(RX), —N(ORX), —N(O)(ORX), or —N(N(RX)(RX)); RX is independently R1, R2, R4, W3, or a protecting group; R1 is independently —H or alkyl of 1 to 18 carbon atoms; R2 is independently R3 or R4 wherein each R4 is independently substituted with 0 to 3 R3 groups or taken together at a carbon atom, two R2 groups form a ring of 3 to 8 carbons and the ring may be substituted with 0 to 3 R3 groups; R3 is R3a, R3b, R3c or R3d, provided that when R3 is bound to a heteroatom, then R3 is R3c or R3d; R3a is —H, —F, —Cl, —Br, —I, —CF3, —CN, N3, —NO2, or —OR4; R3b is ═O, —O(R4), ═S, —N(R4), —N(O)(R4), —N(OR4), —N(O)(OR4), or —N(N(R4)(R4)); R3c is —R4, —N(R4)(R4), —SR4, —S(O)R4, —S(O)2R4, —S(O)(OR4), —S(O)2(OR4), —OC(R3b)R4, —OC(R3b)OR4, —OC(R3b)(N(R4)(R4)), —SC(R3b)R4, —SC(R3b)OR4, —SC(R3b)(N(R4)(R4)), —N(R4)C(R3b)R4, —N(R4)C(R3b)OR4, —N(R4)C(R3b) (N(R4)(R4)), W3 or —R5W3; R3d is —C(R3b)R4, —C(R3b)OR4, —C(R3b)W3, —C(R3b)OW3 or —C(R3b)(N(R4)(R4)); R4 is —H, or an alkyl of 1 to 18 carbon atoms, alkenyl of 2 to 18 carbon atoms, or alkynyl of 2 to 18 carbon atoms; R5 is alkylene of 1 to 18 carbon atoms, alkenylene of 2 to 18 carbon atoms, or alkynylene of 2 to 18 carbon atoms; W3 is W4 or W5; W4 is R6, —C(R3b)R6, —C(R3b)W5, —SOM2R6, or —SOM2W5, wherein R6 is R4 wherein each R4 is substituted with 0 to 3 R3 groups; W5 is carbocycle or heterocycle wherein W5 is independently substituted with 0 to 3 R2 groups; and M2 is 0, 1 or 2; and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof.
US08268799B2 Compositions and methods for inhibiting expression of the HAMP gene
The invention relates to a double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) for inhibiting the expression of the HAMP gene (HAMP gene), comprising an antisense strand having a nucleotide sequence which is less that 30 nucleotides in length, generally 19-25 nucleotides in length, and which is substantially complementary to at least a part of the HAMP gene. The invention also relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising the dsRNA together with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier; methods for treating diseases caused by HAMP gene expression and the expression of the HAMP gene using the pharmaceutical composition.
US08268798B2 Low density lipoprotein receptor-mediated siRNA delivery
The invention provides interfering RNA molecule-ligand conjugates useful as a delivery system for delivering interfering RNA molecules to a cell in vitro or in vivo. The conjugates comprise a ligand that can bind to a low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) or LDLR family member. Therapeutic uses for the conjugates are also provided.
US08268797B2 Combination therapy for the treatment of cancer
The present invention provides methods of sensitizing lung cancer cells to cisplatin and inhibiting the growth of lung cancer tumors by employing a modified eIF-4E antisense oligonucleotide and cisplatin in combination.
US08268793B2 RNA antagonist compounds for the modulation of HER3
The invention relates to oligomer compounds (oligomers), which target HER3 mRNA in a cell, leading to reduced expression of HER3 and/or HER2 and/or EGFR. Reduction of HER3 and/or HER2 and/or EGFR expression is beneficial for a range of medical disorders, such hyperproliferative disorders (e.g., cancer). The invention provides therapeutic compositions comprising oligomers and methods for modulating the expression of HER3 and/or HER2 and/or EGFR using said oligomers, including methods of treatment.
US08268790B2 Dermatalogical formulations
Aqueous preparations of substantially equimolor amounts of a zinc salt and clindamycin phosphate form a polymer useful in the topical treatment of acne and rosacea, with very low systemic levels of clindamycin.
US08268784B2 Neuropeptide-2 receptor (Y-2R) agonists and uses thereof
Provided herein are neuropeptide-2 receptor agonists of the formula (I): as well as pharmaceutically acceptable salts, derivatives and fragments thereof, wherein the substituents are as those disclosed in the specification. X is 4-oxo-6-(1-piperazinyl)-3(4H)-quinazoline-acetic acid (Pqa). These compounds, and the pharmaceutical compositions containing them, are useful for the treatment of diseases such as, for example, obesity and diabetes.
US08268782B2 Composition and method for preparing plasminogen
Disclosed is both a method for preparing a plasminogen and a method for preparing a reversibly inactive acidified plasmin by activating the plasminogen. The prepared plasminogen is typically purified from a fraction obtained in the separation of immunoglobulin from Fraction II+III chromatographic process and eluted at a low pH. The prepared plasmin is isolated and stored with a low pH-buffering capacity agent to provide a substantially stable formulation. The reversibly inactive acidified plasmin may be used in the administration of a thrombolytic therapy.
US08268779B2 Pharmaceutical composition comprising oxyntomodulin derivatives and a method for reducing body weight using the composition
Modified oxyntomodulin derivatives. Such derivatives can be used for the treatment of metabolic diseases such as diabetes and obesity.
US08268771B2 Laundry article having cleaning and conditioning properties
The present invention is a laundry article used for both cleaning and conditioning fabrics, which comprises a water-insoluble nonwoven substrate, coated with at least one zone each of a detergent composition and a fabric conditioning composition. The fabric conditioning composition comprises a quaternary ammonium cationic surfactant, an alkoxylated fatty alcohol, and a fatty acid.
US08268770B2 Fibrous substrate with a solid hypohalite precipitate formed therein and process of making
A cleaning substrate which comprises at least one layer of a solid hypohalite precipitate, wherein the hypohalite precipitate is formed in situ on the layer of substrate material. A process for making a fibrous cleaning substrate comprising the steps of: a) providing at least one layer of fibrous material; b) exposing the fibrous layer to an aqueous alkaline earth salt solution; c) treating the fibrous layer with a hypochlorite solution; d) allowing the aqueous alkaline earth salt solution combine with the hypochlorite solution to form a solid hypochlorite precipitate around the fibers in the fibrous material and a liquid phase, and e) removing at least 65% of the liquid phase from the fibrous substrate.
US08268766B1 Polymeric surfactants based upon alkyl polyglycosides and sorbitan esters
The present invention relates to a series of polyglycoside derivatives that are (a) polymeric (that is cross linked with hydroxypropyl linkages) and (b) contain additional functional groups including alkoxy, sulfate, sulfonate, quaternary and phosphate groups, and (c) sorbitan esters to increase oil solubility and provide outstanding emulsifiers.
US08268765B2 Mono-, di- and polyol phosphate esters in personal care formulations
A hydrophilized personal care formulation, which can be in the form of a hand or body soap (liquid or bar), lipstick, body wash, makeup remover, skin cleaner, hair conditioner, skin or hair moisturizer. The formulation employs an organophosphorus material or a mixture of an organophosphorus material, for example, mono-, di-, and polyol phosphate esters.
US08268762B2 Transmission fluid composition
The invention provides a transmission fluid composition which has a kinematic viscosity as determined at 100° C. of 2 to 10 mm2/s and a viscosity index of 150 or higher and which satisfies a relationship between kinematic viscosity and NOACK evaporation loss amount represented by formula (I): X/3+Y≦6.33  (I) (wherein X represents a kinematic viscosity (mm2/s) as determined at 100° C., and Y represents a NOACK evaporation loss amount (mass %) at 200° C. for one hour), and a transmission fluid composition containing, as a base oil, at least one species selected from among α-olefin oligomers produced through oligomerization of an α-olefin through a specific method and hydrogenation products of the oligomers. Such transmission fluid compositions exhibit a very small evaporation loss despite having low viscosity, and a long metal fatigue life (e.g., pitting resistance) and have high viscosity index, good low-temperature fluidity, good extreme pressure properties, and good oxidation stability, and are suitable for transmissions, particularly automatic transmissions.
US08268761B2 Aminomethyl-substituted imidazole compounds for use as friction modifiers in lubricating oil compositions
Disclosed are aminomethyl-substituted imidazole compounds and their use as friction modifiers in lubricating oils. Also disclosed is a process for preparing the aminomethyl-substituted imidazole compounds. A further aspect is directed to a lubricating oil composition and a lubricating oil additive concentrate having the aminomethyl-substituted imidazole compounds of the present invention.
US08268756B2 Mixture of binding proteins
Described are methods for producing libraries of cells expressing at least two separate single polypeptide chain binding proteins, in which the binding proteins have different target epitopes. Such libraries are made by integration of the nucleic acid sequences encoding the polypeptide chains into the genome of the host cell, and selecting for cells that have successfully integrated these nucleic acids. The selected cells are preferably subjected to a cloning step. Mixtures of binding proteins are produced without having to individually produce each of the components of the mixture. A library of cells wherein essentially each cell encodes at least two single polypeptide chain binding proteins having different target epitopes is also herewith provided, as well as methods for producing a composition comprising at least two separate single polypeptide chain binding proteins having different target epitopes.
US08268754B2 Substituted dihydroazole compound and pest control agent
There is provided a novel pest control agent, particularly an insecticide or miticide. A substituted dihydroazole compound of General Formula (1) or a salt thereof: where A1, A2, A3 and A4 are independently C—Y or N, A5 is —CH2—, etc., G1 is a benzene ring, etc., G2 is G2-1, G2-6, G2-9, etc., X is a halogen atom, C1-2haloalkyl, etc., Z is methyl, —NH2, etc., R1 is —C(O)R1a, etc., R1a is C1-4alkyl, etc., R2 is H, C1-4alkyl, etc., R3 is C1-2haloalkyl, etc., R4 is H, cyano, methyl, etc., m is an integer of 1, 2, 3, etc., n is an integer of 0 or 1; and a pest control agent comprising the compound or the salt thereof.
US08268751B2 Combination of active substances with insecticidal properties
The invention relates to novel insecticidal active compound combinations consisting, firstly, of anthranilamides and, secondly, of further insecticidally active compounds from the group of the pyrethroids, which combinations are highly suitable for controlling animal pests, such as insects.
US08268748B2 Composition for production of plant body having improved sugar content, and use thereof
The composition, in accordance with the present invention, for producing a plant body having an improved sugar content includes glutathione, a polynucleotide encoding γ-glutamylcysteine synthetase, or a polynucleotide encoding glutathione-binding plastid type fructose-1,6-bisphosphate aldolase. The composition preferably includes oxidized glutathione. This allows provision of a composition for easily producing a plant body having an improved sugar content.
US08268746B2 Thermosensitive recording material
Provided is a thermosensitive recording material which can be produced through high-speed coating, which is excellent in head-matching property, and which can provide a printed image having good waterproofness, while maintaining high sensitivity and high storage stability, which material includes a support, an under layer laid over the support, the under layer containing a plastic hollow particle, a thermosensitive color-developing layer laid over the under layer, the thermosensitive color-developing layer containing a leuco dye and a developer, wherein two or more layers including the thermosensitive color-developing layer are formed through simultaneous coating by a curtain coating method.
US08268738B2 Polylactic acid fibers
A biodegradable fiber that is formed from a thermoplastic composition that contains polylactic acid, a plasticizer, and a compatibilizer is provided. The compatibilizer includes a polymer that is modified with a polar compound that is compatible with the plasticizer and a non-polar component provided by the polymer backbone that is compatible with polylactic acid. Such functionalized polymers may thus stabilize each of the polymer phases and reduce plasticizer migration. By reducing the plasticizer migration, the composition may remain ductile and soft. Further, addition of the functionalized polymer may also promote improved bonding and initiate crystallization faster than conventional polylactic acid fibers. The polar compound includes an organic acid, an anhydride of an organic acid, an amide of an organic acid, or a combination thereof. Such compounds are believed to be more compatible with the generally acidic nature of the polylactic acid fibers.
US08268736B2 Process for improving the breaking strength and/or tear strength of adsorptive filtering materials
The present invention relates to a process for improving the breaking strength and/or tear strength of a warp-knitted fabric, in particular for use in adsorptive filtering materials having a protective function against chemical poisons and/or warfare agent materials, the process comprising providing the warp-knitted fabric with a multiplicity of wales, a multiplicity of courses and a multiplicity of structural elements. In accordance with the present invention, a portion of the structural elements is configured as to each extend over a plurality of wales, so that in the event of a breaking stress on the warp-knitted fabric or the action of a breaking force the structural elements which each extend over a plurality of wales are pushed together or bundled and an improved breaking force results.
US08268734B2 Methods and systems of transferring, docking and processing substrates
In accordance with some embodiments described herein, a method for transferring a substrate to two or more process modules is provided, comprising loading at least one substrate into one or more mobile transverse chambers, the mobile transverse chambers being carried on a rail positioned adjacent to the two or more process modules, and wherein each mobile transverse chamber is configured to maintain a specified gas condition during conveyance of the substrate. One or more drive systems are actuated to propel at least one of the one or more mobile transverse chambers along the rail. The at least one mobile transfer chamber docks to at least one of the process modules, and the substrate is conveyed from the mobile transverse chamber to the at least one process modules.
US08268730B2 Methods of masking semiconductor device structures
A method for fabricating semiconductor device structures includes forming a non-conformal mask over a surface of a substrate. Non-conformal mask material with a planar or substantially planar upper surface is formed on the surface of the substrate. The planarity or substantial planarity of the non-conformal material eliminates or substantially eliminates distortion in a “mask” formed thereover and, thus, eliminates or substantially eliminates distortion in any mask that is subsequently formed using the pattern of the mask. In some embodiments, mask material of the non-conformal mask does not extend into recesses in the upper surface of the substrate; instead it “bridges” the recesses. Semiconductor device structures that include non-conformal masks and semiconductor device structures that have been fabricated with non-conformal masks are also disclosed.
US08268728B2 Method of cleaning and forming a negatively charged passivation layer over a doped region
The present invention generally provides a method of forming a high efficiency solar cell device by preparing a surface and/or forming at least a part of a high quality passivation layer on a silicon containing substrate. Embodiments of the present invention may be especially useful for preparing a surface of a p-type doped region formed on a silicon substrate so that a high quality passivation layer can be formed thereon. In one embodiment, the methods include exposing a surface of the solar cell substrate to a plasma to clean and modify the physical, chemical and/or electrical characteristics of the surface.
US08268716B2 Creation of lead-free solder joint with intermetallics
A method of coupling an integrated circuit to a substrate includes providing the substrate, forming a contact pad in the substrate, contacting the contact pad with a solder ball, and repeatedly exposing the solder ball to a thermal process to cause intermetallics based on a metal in the contact pad to be formed in the thermal ball.
US08268715B2 Multi-component integrated circuit contacts
An integrated circuit connection is describe that includes a first, securing member and a second, connection member. The first member, in an embodiment, is a spike that has a portion of its body fixed in a layer of an integrated circuit structure and extends outwardly from the integrated circuit structure. The second material is adapted to form a mechanical connection to a further electrical device. The second material (e.g., solder), is held by the first member to the integrated circuit structure. The first member increases the strength of the connection and assists in controlling the collapse of second member to form the mechanical connection to another circuit. The connection is formed by coating the integrated circuit structure with a patterned resist and etching the layer beneath the resist. A first member material (e.g., metal) is deposited. The resist is removed. The collapsible material is fixed to the first member.
US08268711B2 Floating gate having multiple charge storing layers, method of fabricating the floating gate, non-volatile memory device using the same, and fabricating method thereof
Provided is a floating gate having multiple charge storage layers, a non-volatile memory device using the same, and a method of fabricating the floating gate and the non-volatile memory device, in which the multiple charge storage layers using metallic/semiconducting nano-particles is formed to thereby enhance a charge storage capacity of the memory device. The floating gate includes a polymer electrolytic film which is deposited on a tunneling oxide film, and is formed of at least one stage in which at least one thin film is deposited on each stage, and at least one metal nano-particle layer which is self-assembled on the upper surface of each stage of the polymer electrolytic film and on which a number of nano-particles for trapping charges are formed. The floating gate is made by self-assembling the nano-particles on the polymer electrolytic film, and thus can be fabricated without undergoing a heat treatment process at high temperature.
US08268710B2 Method for fabricating semiconductor devices
A method for fabricating a semiconductor device includes providing a semiconductor substrate including a memory cell region and peripheral circuit regions. Gate electrodes including gate conductive patterns and capping patterns are formed on the memory cell region and the peripheral circuit regions. An interlayer dielectric covering the gate electrodes is formed. The interlayer dielectric is patterned to form first contact holes exposing the semiconductor substrate along side of the gate electrode in the memory cell region and second contact holes exposing a portion of the capping pattern in the peripheral circuit region such that a bottom surface of the second contact hole is spaced apart from a top surface of the gate conductive pattern. A first plug conductive layer is filled in the first contact holes and a second plug conductive layer is filled in the second contact holes. A planarizing process is performed to expose the capping patterns such that first contact plugs are formed in the memory cell region and second contact plugs are formed in the peripheral circuit region.
US08268705B2 Method for producing SOI wafer
The present invention is a method for producing an SOI wafer comprising at least a step of forming an ion-implanted damaged layer by ion-implanting a neutral element electrically inactive in silicon from one surface of the base wafer or the bond wafer, in which ion-implanting in the step of forming the ion-implanted damaged layer is performed at a dosage of 1×1012 atoms/cm2 or more and less than 1×1015 atoms/cm2. As a result, there may be provided a method for producing an SOI wafer having sufficient gettering ability while the suppression of leak failure, degradation of oxide dielectric breakdown voltage or the like is provided.
US08268704B2 Method for dicing substrate
A substrate dividing method which can thin and divide a substrate while preventing chipping and cracking from occurring. This substrate dividing method comprises the steps of irradiating a semiconductor substrate 1 having a front face 3 formed with functional devices 19 with laser light while positioning a light-converging point within the substrate, so as to form a modified region including a molten processed region due to multiphoton absorption within the semiconductor substrate 1, and causing the modified region including the molten processed region to form a starting point region for cutting; and grinding a rear face 21 of the semiconductor substrate 1 after the step of forming the starting point region for cutting such that the semiconductor substrate 1 attains a predetermined thickness.
US08268703B2 Surface roughening process
A process of forming a rough interface in a semiconductor substrate. The process includes the steps of depositing a material on a surface of the substrate, forming a zone of irregularities in the material, and forming a rough interface in the semiconductor substrate by a thermal oxidation of the material and a part of the substrate. Additionally, the surface of the oxidized material may be prepared and the surface may be assembled with a second substrate.
US08268702B2 IC card and booking-account system using the IC card
It is an object of the present invention to provide a highly sophisticated functional IC card that can ensure security by preventing forgery such as changing a picture of a face, and display other images as well as the picture of a face. An IC card comprising a display device and a plurality of thin film integrated circuits; wherein driving of the display device is controlled by the plurality of thin film integrated circuits; a semiconductor element used for the plurality of thin film integrated circuits and the display device is formed by using a polycrystalline semiconductor film; the plurality of thin film integrated circuits are laminated; the display device and the plurality of thin film integrated circuits are equipped for the same printed wiring board; and the IC card has a thickness of from 0.05 mm to 1 mm.
US08268695B2 Methods of making capacitors
Some embodiments include methods of making stud-type capacitors utilizing carbon-containing support material. Openings may be formed through the carbon-containing support material to electrical nodes, and subsequently conductive material may be grown within the openings. The carbon-containing support material may then be removed, and the conductive material utilized as stud-type storage nodes of stud-type capacitors. The stud-type capacitors may be incorporated into DRAM, and the DRAM may be utilized in electronic systems.
US08268691B2 High voltage transistor with improved driving current
A semiconductor device and its method of manufacture are provided. Embodiments forming an active region in a semiconductor substrate, wherein the active region is bounded by an isolation region; forming a first doped region within the active region; forming a gate electrode over the active region, wherein the gate electrode overlies a portion of the first doped region; forming at least one dielectric layer over sidewalls of the gate electrode; forming a pair of spacers on the dielectric layer; and forming a second doped region substantially within the portion of the first doped region adjacent the one of the spacers and spaced apart from the one of the spacers.The first and second doped regions may form a double diffused drain structure as in an HVMOS transistor.
US08268679B2 Semiconductor device comprising eFUSES of enhanced programming efficiency
In sophisticated integrated circuits, an electronic fuse may be formed such that an increased sensitivity to electromigration may be accomplished by including at least one region of increased current density. This may be accomplished by forming a corresponding fuse region as a non-linear configuration, wherein at corresponding connection portions of linear segments, the desired enhanced current crowding may occur during the application of the programming voltage. Hence, increased reliability and more space-efficient layout of the electronic fuses may be accomplished.
US08268676B2 Process of forming an electronic device including removing a conductive member to form a trench and electrically isolate leads
An electronic device can include a packaging material having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, and leads including die connection surfaces and external connection surfaces. The electronic device can further include a trench extending from an upper surface of the packaging substrate towards a lower surface of the packaging substrate, wherein a set of leads lie immediately adjacent to the trench, and the packaging material is exposed at the bottom of the trench. In an embodiment, an encapsulant is formed over the upper surface of the packaging substrate and within the trench. In a particular embodiment, the trenches may be formed before or after placing a die over the packaging substrate, or before or after forming electrical connections between the die and leads of the packaging substrate.
US08268671B2 Semiconductor system-in-package and methods for making the same
Semiconductor devices that contain a system in package and methods for making such packages are described. The semiconductor device with a system in package (SIP) contains a first IC die, passive components, and discrete devices that are contained in a lower level of the package. The SIP also contains a second IC die that is vertically separated from the first IC die by an array of metal interposers, thereby isolating the components of the first IC die from the components of the second IC die. Such a configuration provides more functionality within a single semiconductor package while also reducing or eliminating local heating in the package. Other embodiments are also described.
US08268669B2 Laser optical path detection
A method is provided for detecting laser optical paths in integrated circuit (IC) packages. The method provides an IC die encapsulated as a package in a compound of glass spheres and epoxy. Power is supplied to the IC. The IC is scanned with a laser. Typically, a laser wavelength is used that is minimally absorbed by the glass spheres in the epoxy compound of the IC package, and changes in current to the IC are detected. A detected current change is cross-referenced against a scanned IC package surface region. This process identifies an optical pathway underlying the scanned IC package surface region. In some aspects, this process leads to the identification of a glass sphere-collecting package structure underlying the optical pathway. Examples of a glass sphere-collecting structure might include an inner lead wire, lead frame edge, or die edge.
US08268667B2 Memory device using ion implant isolated conductive metal oxide
Memory cell formation using ion implant isolated conductive metal oxide is disclosed, including forming a bottom electrode below unetched conductive metal oxide layer(s), forming the unetched conductive metal oxide layer(s) including depositing at least one layer of a conductive metal oxide (CMO) material (e.g., PrCaMnOx, LaSrCoOx, LaNiOx, etc.) over the bottom electrode. At least one portion of the layer of CMO is configured to act as a memory element without etching, and performing ion implantation on portions of the layer(s) of CMO to create insulating metal oxide (IMO) regions in the layer(s) of CMO. The IMO regions are positioned adjacent to electrically conductive CMO regions in the unetched layer(s) of CMO and the electrically conductive CMO regions are disposed above and in contact with the bottom electrode and form memory elements operative to store non-volatile data as a plurality of conductivity profiles (e.g., resistive states indicative of stored data).
US08268664B2 Methods of manufacturing a semiconductor device; method of manufacturing a memory cell; semiconductor device; semiconductor processing device; integrated circuit having a memory cell
Methods of manufacturing a semiconductor device, a method of manufacturing a memory cell, a semiconductor device, a semiconductor processing device, and a memory cell, are provided. In one embodiment a method of manufacturing a semiconductor device is provided including forming a metal doped chalcogenide layer using light irradiation at least partially during provision of the metal.
US08268659B2 Edge-emitting semiconductor laser chip
A method for manufacturing an edge emitting semiconductor laser chip, which has a carrier substrate, an interlayer arranged between the carrier substrate and a component structure of the edge emitting semiconductor laser chip. The interlayer is adapted to provide adhesion between the carrier substrate and the component structure. The component structure has an active zone provided for generating radiation.
US08268657B2 Laser induced thermal imaging apparatus
A laser induced thermal imaging (LITI) apparatus and a method of making an electronic device using the same are disclosed. The LITI apparatus includes a chamber, a substrate support, a contact frame, and a laser source or oscillator. The LITI apparatus transfers a transferable layer from a film donor device onto a surface of an intermediate electronic device. The LITI apparatus uses a magnetic force to provide a close contact between the transferable layer and the surface of the intermediate device. The magnetic force is generated by magnetic materials formed in two components of the LITI apparatus that are spaced apart interposing transferable layer and the surface of the intermediate device. Magnets or magnetic materials are formed in the two following components of the LITI apparatus: 1) the intermediate device and the film donor device; 2) the intermediate device and the contact frame; 3) the substrate support and the film donor device; or 4) the substrate support and the contact frame.
US08268656B2 Optical device wafer processing method
An optical device wafer processing method including a protective plate attaching step of attaching a transparent protective plate through a double-sided adhesive tape to the front side of a sapphire substrate constituting an optical device wafer, the double-sided adhesive tape being composed of a sheet capable of blocking ultraviolet radiation and adhesive layers formed on both sides of the sheet, wherein the adhesive force of each adhesive layer can be reduced by applying ultraviolet radiation; a sapphire substrate grinding step of grinding the back side of the sapphire substrate; a modified layer forming step of applying a laser beam to the sapphire substrate from the back side thereof to thereby form a modified layer in the sapphire substrate along each street; a protective plate removing step of removing the protective plate in the condition where the double-sided adhesive tape is left on the sapphire substrate; and a wafer dividing step of breaking the sapphire substrate along each street where the modified layer is formed, thus dividing the optical device wafer into individual optical devices in the condition where the double-sided adhesive tape is left on the sapphire substrate.
US08268653B2 Light-emitting element capable of increasing amount of light emitted, light-emitting device including the same, and method of manufacturing light-emitting element and light-emitting device
A light-emitting element capable of increasing the amount of light emitted, a light-emitting device including the same, and a method of manufacturing the light-emitting element and the light-emitting device include a buffer layer having an uneven pattern formed thereon; a light-emitting structure including a first conductive pattern of a first conductivity type that is conformally formed along the buffer layer having the uneven pattern formed thereon, a light-emitting pattern that is conformally formed along the first conductive pattern, and a second conductive pattern of a second conductivity type that is formed on the light-emitting pattern; a first electrode electrically connected to the first conductive pattern; and a second electrode electrically connected to the second conductive pattern.
US08268652B2 Method for distributing fluorescence onto LED chip
A method for distributing fluorescence onto a light emitting diode chip includes steps: providing a base; mounting the LED chip having a light-emergent face on the base; disposing a baffle sleeve on the base whereby the baffle sleeve surrounds the LED chip; disposing a solid fusible block with the fluorescence mixed therein on the LED chip; heating the solid fusible block to be in a liquid state, and the fusible block flowing over the light-emergent face of the LED chip; and cooling the fusible block to be in a solid state again.
US08268650B2 Process for manufacturing sealed organic electroluminescence devices
A process for manufacturing sealed organic EL devices includes a step of forming an organic EL layer on a region of an anode-mounted substrate having a substrate and an anode, the region including at least a bonding region in which a sealing member will be bonded and a region which is found inward the bonding region; a step of removing a portion of the organic EL layer which is found at least on the bonding region by applying plasma by a remote plasma method to expose the bonding region; a step of forming a cathode on the organic EL layer to complete an organic EL device; and a step of bonding a sealing member to the exposed bonding region.
US08268647B2 Method of manufacturing an ink jet print head
In a method of manufacturing an ink jet print head that includes a number of aligned modules, an alignment mark is foamed on a first and a second adjacent module, wherein the alignment mark is positioned on a boundary between the first and the second adjacent module along which the wafer is to be separated. In a separating step the wafer is separated into separate modules such that the alignment mark is divided over said first and second adjacent module. At least one of said first and second module is aligned by reference to the divided alignment mark The method improves the accuracy, with which the modules can be aligned.
US08268646B2 Group III-nitrides on SI substrates using a nanostructured interlayer
A layered group III-nitride article includes a single crystal silicon substrate, and a highly textured group III-nitride layer, such as GaN, disposed on the silicon substrate. The highly textured group III-nitride layer is crack free and has a thickness of at least 10 μm. A method for forming highly textured group III-nitride layers includes the steps of providing a single crystal silicon comprising substrate, depositing a nanostructured InxGa1-xN (1≧x≧0) interlayer on the silicon substrate, and depositing a highly textured group III-nitride layer on the interlayer. The interlayer has a nano indentation hardness that is less than both the silicon substrate and the highly textured group III-nitride layer.
US08268640B2 Method for making microstructures by converting porous silicon into porous metal or ceramics
A method for making a micro structure (100) is proposed. The method starts with the step of providing a silicon substrate (102), which has a main surface. A porous silicon layer (103)—extending into the silicon substrate from the main surface—is then formed. The method continues by etching the porous silicon layer selectively to obtain a set of projecting microelements of porous silicon (112); each projecting microelement projects from a remaining portion of the silicon substrate (106), thereby exposing a corresponding external surface. The projecting microelements are then treated to obtain a set of corresponding conductive (115) or insulating (115′) microelements; each conductive or insulating microelement is obtained by converting at least a prevalent portion of the porous silicon (extending into the corresponding projecting element from the external surface) into porous metal or ceramics, respectively.
US08268637B2 Label-free biosensors based upon distributed feedback laser
A biosensor based upon a vertically emitting, distributed feedback (DFB) laser is disclosed. In one configuration, the DFB laser comprises a replica-molded, one- or two-dimensional dielectric grating coated with a laser dye-doped-polymer as the gain medium. A sensor is also described in which the grating layer and the active layer are combined into a single layer. DFB lasers using an inorganic or organic thin film with alternating regions of high and low index of refraction as the active layer are also disclosed. The sensor actively generates its own narrowband high intensity light output without stringent requirements for coupling alignment, thereby resulting in a simple, robust illumination and detection configuration.
US08268636B2 Diagnostic detection device
The invention comprises a device for detecting an analyte in a liquid sample deposited on a first portion of the device for transport to a second portion of the device that is in fluid contact with the first portion. In specific embodiments, the device comprises a labeled conjugate comprising a binding member reactive with a first epitope of the analyte and a label comprising a gold colloid, preferably having a mean particle size of 50 nm to 100 nm. In further embodiments, the device comprises a capture component comprising polymerized streptavidin. The diagnostic device is particularly useful in the preparation of pregnancy test kits.
US08268631B2 Chiral selectors and stationary phases for separating enantiomer mixtures
Chiral selectors having α-unsubstituted β-amino acid derivatives of the structure: a stationary phase for separating substance mixtures containing the chiral selector, and processes for separating mixtures of chiral substances, including enantiomers, and especially enantiomers of substances selected from β-amino acids and derivatives thereof, α-amino acids and α-hydroxy acids are provided.
US08268629B2 Method for the measurement of water and water-soluble components in non-aqueous liquids
A system and method for characterizing a liquid hydrocarbon fuel having unknown or variable composition is described and shown herein.
US08268627B2 Formation of bilayers of amphipathic molecules
A method of forming bilayers of amphipathic molecules uses droplets of aqueous solution in a hydrophobic medium such as oil. A layer of amphipathic molecules such as a lipid is formed around the surfaces of the droplets. This may be achieved by providing the lipid in the oil and leaving the droplets for a time sufficient to form the layer. The droplets are brought into contact with one another so that a bilayer of the amphipathic molecules is formed as an interface between the contacting droplets. The bilayers may be used for a wide range of studies. The technique has numerous advantages including providing a long lifetime for the bilayers, allowing study of small volumes and allowing the construction of chains and networks of droplets with bilayers in between to study complex systems.
US08268625B2 Method of measuring glycated hemoglobin concentration and concentration measuring apparatus
When the concentration of glycated hemoglobin is measured, a plurality of wavelengths are selected as measurement wavelengths from the wavelength range of 400 to 450 nm. Preferably, by use of a liquid chromatography, at least the light of different peak wavelengths in the wavelength range of 415 to 430 nm are continuously or intermittently received to obtain a three dimensional chromatogram having as variables the wavelength, the elution time and the amount of detection. The concentration of glycated hemoglobin is calculated based on this three dimensional chromatogram.
US08268611B2 Microtiter plate and use thereof
The invention relates to a microtiter plate and use thereof for conducting fermentation under fed-batch conditions. In order to produce a microtiter plate which permits screening under fed-batch conditions, the invention proposes that the cavities (2) of the microtiter plate according to the invention be filled with a culturing fluid and nutrient solution and be designed in such a way that each of the cavities (2) of the microtiter plate which is filled with nutrient solution is connected by a channel (4) to at least one other further cavity (3) of the microtiter plate which is filled with a culturing fluid. A diffusion barrier (13) arranged in the material permeable channel (4) controls the kinetics of the material transfer of nutrients from the cavity containing the nutrient solution to the cavities containing the culturing fluid.
US08268610B2 Nucleic acids useful in the manufacture of oil
Novel gene sequences from microalgae are disclosed, as well as novel gene sequences useful in the manufacture of triglyceride oils. Also disclosed are sequences and vectors that allow microalgae to be cultivated on sugar cane and sugar beets as a feedstock. In some embodiments, the vectors are useful for the purpose of performing targeted modifications to the nuclear genome of heterotrophic microalgae.
US08268605B2 Compositions and methods utilizing DNA polymerases
The invention features a novel isolated Family B DNA polymerase, a Thermococcus polymerase JDF-3, and mutant recombinant forms thereof. Mutant polymerases of the invention are deficient in 3′ to 5′ exonuclease activity and/or exhibit reduced discrimination against non-conventional nucleotides relative to the wild-type form of the polymerase.
US08268604B2 Compositions for forming immobilized biological layers for sensing
The invention is directed to enzyme immobilization compositions comprising: one or more enzymes, a humectant, an acrylic-based monomer, a water-soluble organic photo-initiator and a water-soluble acrylic-based cross-linker in a substantially homogeneous aqueous mixture. The invention is also directed to methods for forming sensors comprising such compositions and to apparati for forming arrays of immobilized layers on an array of sensors by dispensing such compositions onto a substrate.
US08268602B2 Cellular and viral inactivation
The invention provides compositions of inactivated viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites and tumor cells that can be used as vaccines. Methods for making such inactivated viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites and tumor cells are also provided.
US08268601B2 Continuous-batch hybrid process for production of oil and other useful products from photosynthetic microbes
A process for cultivating photosynthetic microbes comprising Closed Systems for continuous cultivation and Open Systems for batch cultivation, in which (a) the Closed System Area occupies no more than 20% of the Total Land Area of the cultivation facility; (b) batch cultures in the Open Systems are initiated with an inoculum from the Closed Systems containing a cell biomass of no less than 5% of the carrying capacity of said Open System; (c) the doubling rate of said photosynthetic microbe is no less than once every 16 hours; and (d) the residence time of the batch culture in said Open System is no more than a period of 5 days.
US08268598B2 Mutant Δ5 desaturases mutated in the heme-binding motif (HPGG) and their use in making polyunsaturated fatty acids
The present invention relates to mutant Δ5 desaturases, which have the ability to convert dihomo-γ-linolenic acid [DGLA; 20:3 ω-6] to arachidonic acid [ARA; 20:4 ω-6] and/or eicosatetraenoic acid [ETA; 20:4 ω-3] to eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA; 20:5 ω-3] and which possess at least one mutation within the HPGG motif of the cytochrome b5-like domain. Isolated nucleic acid fragments and recombinant constructs comprising such fragments encoding Δ5 desaturases, along with a method of making long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids [“PUFAs”] using these mutant Δ5 desaturases in oleaginous yeast, are disclosed.
US08268597B2 Recombinant microorganism and method for producing L-lysine
The present invention provides methods of producing L-lysine at a high yield using an Escherichia bacterium, especially E. coli, comprising a wild type or variant dapA gene of B. subtilis. The invention also provides related recombinant Escherichia bacteria, especially E. coli, for use to produce L-lysine.
US08268595B2 Integrated methods for processing palm fruit bunches
This invention is directed to an integrated method for the processing of palm fruit bunches to oil and other products. The method comprises inter alia separating palm fruit carrying bunches into fruits and lignocellulosic empty fruit bunches, processing the fruits to form palm oil, and at least one lignocellulosic processing coproduct; generating an aqueous stream; producing a non-oil, non-alcohol, non-fatty acid ester third product from the oil, the lignocellulosic processing coproduct, the aqueous stream or from a combination thereof; processing at least a portion of the lignocellulosic empty fruit bunches, lignocellulosic processing coproduct or a combination thereof into a fourth product and optionally producing at least one fifth conversion product from the fourth product; and using at least a portion of the fourth product or a product of its conversion or a combination thereof.
US08268593B2 Polynucleotides encoding antibodies directed against amyloid-beta peptide
Monoclonal antibody 9TL and antibodies derived from 9TL directed against amyloid-beta peptide and methods of using same for diagnosing and treatment of Alzheimer's disease and Aβ peptide associated diseases are described. Methods of using antibodies directed against amyloid-beta peptide having impaired effector function for treatment of Alzheimer's disease and Aβ peptide associated diseases are also described.
US08268592B2 Anti-system ASC amino acid transporter 2 (ASCT2) antibody
An object of the present invention is to provide a monoclonal antibody which is useful for treating or diagnosing a disease relating to system ASC amino acid transporter 2 (hereinafter, referred to as “ASCT2”) or a method using the antibody. The present invention provides a monoclonal antibody which specifically recognizes a native three-dimensional structure of an extracellular region of ASCT2 and binds to the extracellular region, or an antibody fragment thereof; a hybridoma which produces the antibody; a DNA which encodes the antibody; a vector which contains the DNA; a transformant obtainable by introducing the vector; a process for producing an antibody or an antibody fragment thereof using the hybridoma or the transformant; and a therapeutic agent using the antibody or the antibody fragment thereof, and a diagnostic agent using the antibody or the antibody fragment thereof.
US08268590B2 Non-activated polypeptides having a function of tissue regeneration and method for preparing the same
Non-activated tissue-regeneration polypeptides (TRPs) and their preparation methods are disclosed. The TRPs include: a protein transduction domain (PTD) making the polypeptides to permeate a cell membrane without cell membrane receptors; a furin activation domain (FAD) which has at least one proprotein convertase cleavage site and which can be cleaved by the proprotein convertase and activate a tissue regeneration domain (TRD) in cells; and a tissue regeneration domain (TRD) which can be activated by the proprotein convertase cleavage of the FAD to stimulate the growth or formation of tissues or to induce the regeneration of tissues. The TRPs can be mass-produced by cultured bacteria, such as recombinant E. coli, are in a non-activated state before in vivo administration, and their separation, purification, handling, storage and administration are simple and convenient. The in vivo administration of the TRPs is useful to stimulate the formation or regeneration of tissues, such as bones or cartilages, or to improve the fibrosis and cirrhosis of organs, such as kidneys, liver, lungs and heart by pharmacological mechanisms completely different from those of prior rhBMPs or TGF-β proteins.
US08268589B2 Polypeptides having endoglucanase activity and polynucleotides encoding same
The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having endoglucanase activity and isolated polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods for producing and using the polypeptides.
US08268584B1 Hydrogen production from microbial strains
The present invention is directed to a method of screening microbe strains capable of generating hydrogen. This method involves inoculating one or more microbes in a sample containing cell culture medium to form an inoculated culture medium. The inoculated culture medium is then incubated under hydrogen producing conditions. Once incubating causes the inoculated culture medium to produce hydrogen, microbes in the culture medium are identified as candidate microbe strains capable of generating hydrogen. Methods of producing hydrogen using one or more of the microbial strains identified as well as the hydrogen producing strains themselves are also disclosed.
US08268579B2 Method and medium for detecting the presence or absence of pathogenic staphylococci in a first generation test sample
A presence/absence test for Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) involves placing a first generation test sample in a solution that will clot in the presence of S. aureus. The solution contains components that will selectively grow S. aureus and also contains clotting factors that will react with S. aureus, if S. aureus is present in the sample, to clot the solution. Examples of specimen samples that can be tested include nasal swabs and lesion swabs, among others. The test can also be modified to detect the presence or absence of methicillin resistant S. Aureus (MRSA).
US08268577B2 Electrochemical methods of detecting colon cancer cells and use of same for diagnosing and monitoring treatment of the disease
A method of detecting cancer cells is disclosed. The method comprises (a) contacting the cell with a substrate for an enzyme under conditions wherein the enzyme catalyzes a reaction of the cell with the substrate, so as to generate a product capable of producing an electrical signal; and (b) measuring a level of the electrical signal, wherein a difference in a level of the electrical signal compared to a predetermined threshold is indicative of a cancer cell. The method may be adapted for diagnosis, monitoring a cancer therapy, identifying agents capable of treating cancer and individually optimizing a cancer therapy.
US08268575B2 NAD biosynthesis systems
The present invention generally relates to a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) biosynthesis system and methods of screening for NAD biosynthesis effectors. Among the various aspects of the present invention is the provision of an in vitro-reconstituted mammalian NAD biosynthesis system that can be used for the high-throughput screening of chemical activators and inhibitors for mammalian NAD biosynthesis. Another aspect of the invention provides a method of identifying a compound that effects in vivo activity of NAD metabolic enzymes. Further aspects of the invention include nucleic acid sequences, vectors, and transformed cells that can be used in the methods described herein.
US08268574B2 Methods, devices, kits and compositions for detecting roundworm
Methods, devices, kits and compositions for detecting the presence or absence of roundworm in a mammalian sample are disclosed herein. The methods, devices, kits and compositions of the present invention may be used to confirm the presence or absence of roundworm in a fecal sample from a mammal that may also be infected with one or more of hookworm, whipworm, and heartworm. Confirmation of the presence or absence of roundworm in the mammal may be made, for example, for the purpose of selecting an optimal course of treating the mammal and/or for the purpose of determining whether the mammal has been rid of the infection after treatment has been initiated.
US08268572B2 Methods to identify inhibitors of Runx1-mediated expression of nociceptive receptors and ion channels
Methods are provided for identifying candidate agents for use in inhibiting expression of certain receptors and ion channels in nociceptors. Also provided are methods for identifying candidates agents for use in inhibiting neurophathic and other types of pain.
US08268571B2 Flow cytometry for high throughput screening
The present invention, provides a flow cytometry apparatus for the detection of particles from a plurality of samples comprising: means for moving a plurality of samples comprising particles from a plurality of respective source wells into a fluid flow stream; means for introducing a separation gas between each of the plurality of samples in the fluid flow stream; and means for selectively analyzing each of the plurality of samples for the particles. The present invention also provides a flow cytometry method employing such an apparatus.
US08268566B2 Enhanced FC receptor-mediated tumor necrosis factor superfamily MRNA expression in peripheral blood leukocytes in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
A method for predicting patient responsiveness to rheumatoid arthritis treatments involving altering expression of tumor necrosis factor superfamily (“TNFSF”)-2, TNFSF-8, or TNFSF-15 is disclosed. A method for monitoring the effectiveness of such therapy is also disclosed. Furthermore, a method of screening compounds for use in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis is disclosed. A method of monitoring the disease state over time in rheumatoid arthritis patients is also disclosed.
US08268560B2 Polymide nucleic acid derivatives, and agents and processes for preparing them
The present invention relates to PNA derivatives which carry, at the C terminus, or at both the C and N termini of the PNA backbone, one or more phosphoryl radicals. The phosphoryl radicals carry, where appropriate, one or more labeling groups, groups for crosslinking, groups which promote intracellular uptake, or groups which increase the binding affinity of the PNA derivative for nucleic acids. The invention furthermore relates to a process for preparing the above-mentioned PNA derivatives and to their use as pharmaceuticals or diagnostic agents.
US08268556B2 RNA complexes, method of their production and sensors and analytical methods involving same
The invention includes RNA complexes comprising at least three monomeric units of an RNA molecule, each monomeric unit comprising an RNA polymer having first and second helical domains that have respective first and second binding sites, wherein the first binding sites are adapted to binding to one another and are not adapted to bind to the second binding sites, and the second binding sites are adapted to binding to one another and are not adapted to bind to the first binding sites; such that the at least three monomeric units are adapted to self-assemble by forming pairs of cognate interactions and so as to form the RNA complex in a circular closed complex. The invention also includes derivatives of these complexes including aptamers, and analytical methods and devices using same.
US08268555B2 Method for combined sequential agent delivery and electroporation for cell structures and use thereof
Disclosed is a method for sequential delivery of agents to and/or into a cell structure, wherein an electrolyte-filled tube is provided together with a counter electrode, said tube is connected to a voltage or current generator, at least two agents are introduced in a discrete mode into the electrolyte solution contained in the tube, which is placed close to the cell structure, one agent at the time being transported through the tube to and/or into said cell structure in which a pore has been formed by application of an electric field focused on the cell structure, resulting in electroporation of the cell structure. Also different applications of the method is disclosed, e.g. us of the method in order to transfer cell-impermeant solutes, such as drugs or genes, into the cell structure or out of the cell structure.
US08268552B2 Biomolecule detector and detection method using the same
Disclosed is a biomolecule detector and a detection method using the same. The biomolecule detector includes a biomolecule chip having a substrate and a slit formed therein. Biomolecules are immobilized on at least a portion of the edges of the slit. A light source directs incident light toward the biomolecule chip, and a screen receives an image formed by a portion of the incident light passing through the slit. The biomolecule detector is small and portable, yet its capability for detecting a target biomolecule is quick, accurate and simple. The simple structural features of the biomolecule detector enable mass production.
US08268550B2 Compositions and methods for identification of PARP function, inhibitors, and activators
The invention provides nucleic acids encoding PARP fusion proteins, PARP fusion proteins, antibodies that bind to one or more of these PARP fusion proteins, and transgenic cells expressing one or more PARP fusion proteins. The invention also provides methods for identifying an agent as a specific PARP inhibitor or activator requiring contacting one or more PARP fusion proteins with a labeled nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide substrate and the agent and measuring the amount of labeled of ADP-ribose covalently attached to the one or more PARP fusion proteins. The invention also provides methods for identifying an agent that specifically binds to one or more PARP fusion proteins and methods for quantitating the level of one or more PARP proteins in a sample.
US08268549B2 Method and assay for determining methylation of GAL3 promoter for early diagnosis of prostate cancer
A method and assay are described for determining prostate cancer and the general stage of progression of such cancer by quantifying levels of promoter methylation of gal-3, optionally in combination with the quantification of the level of GSTP1 promoter methylation, where the method and assay are non-invasive to a subject and can detect any of Stages I-IV prostate cancer.
US08268548B2 MAP3Ks as modifiers of the p53 pathway and methods of use
Human MAP3K genes are identified as modulators of the p53 pathway, and thus are therapeutic targets for disorders associated with defective p53 function. Methods for identifying modulators of p53, comprising screening for agents that modulate the activity of MAP3K are provided.
US08268547B2 Method of transporting and storing a kidney
An organ perfusion apparatus and method monitor, sustain and/or restore viability of organs and preserve organs for storage and/or transport. The method includes perfusing the organ at hypothermic and/or normothermic temperatures, preferably after hypothermic organ flushing for organ transport and/or storage. The method can be practiced with prior or subsequent static or perfusion hypothermic exposure of the organ. Organ viability is restored by restoring high energy nucleotide (e.g., ATP) levels by perfusing the organ with a medical fluid, such as an oxygenated cross-linked hemoglobin-based bicarbonate medical fluid, at normothermic temperatures. In perfusion, organ perfusion pressure is preferably controlled in response to a sensor disposed in an end of tubing placed in the organ, by a pneumatically pressurized medical fluid reservoir, providing perfusion pressure fine tuning, overpressurization prevention and emergency flow cut-off. In the hypothermic mode, the organ is perfused with a medical fluid, preferably a simple crystalloid solution containing antioxidants, intermittently or in slow continuous flow. The medical fluid may be fed into the organ from an intermediary tank having a low pressure head to avoid organ overpressurization. Preventing overpressurization prevents or reduces damage to vascular endothelial lining and to organ tissue in general. Viability of the organ may be automatically monitored, preferably by monitoring characteristics of the medical fluid perfusate. The perfusion process can be automatically controlled using a control program.
US08268545B2 Formation of a device using block copolymer lithography
The formation of a device using block copolymer lithography is provided. The formation of the device includes forming a block copolymer structure. The block copolymer structure includes a first polymer and a second polymer. The block copolymer structure also includes a first component deposited between adjacent blocks of the first polymer and a second component deposited between adjacent blocks of the second polymer. A template is developed by removing either the first and second polymers or the first and second components from the block copolymer structure. The formation of the device also includes lithographically patterning the device utilizing the block copolymer structure template. The device may be a data storage medium.
US08268542B2 Method for reducing side lobe printing using a barrier layer
A method suitable for reducing side lobe printing in a photolithography process is enabled by the use of a barrier layer on top of a photoresist on a substrate. The barrier layer is absorbing at the imaging wavelength of the underlying photoresist and thus blocks the light from reaching the photoresist. A first exposure followed by a development in an aqueous base solution selectively removes a portion of the barrier layer to reveal a section of the underlying photoresist layer. At least a portion of the revealed section of the photoresist layer is then exposed and developed to form a patterned structure in the photoresist layer. The barrier layer can also be bleachable upon exposure and bake in the present invention.
US08268530B2 Positive resist composition, method of forming resist pattern, polymeric compound, and compound
A positive resist composition including a base component (A) which exhibits increased solubility in an alkali developing solution under the action of acid and an acid generator component (B) which generates acid upon exposure, wherein the base component (A) includes a polymeric compound (A1) having a structural unit (a0) containing an acid-dissociable, dissolution-inhibiting group, and the acid-dissociable, dissolution-inhibiting group has a 1,3-dioxole skeleton.
US08268529B2 Positive resist composition, method of forming resist pattern using the same, and polymeric compound
A positive resist composition including a base component (A) which exhibits changed solubility in an alkali developing solution under the action of acid and an acid-generator component (B) which generates acid upon exposure dissolved in an organic solvent (S), the base component (A) containing a polymeric compound (A1) including a structural unit (a0) derived from an acrylate ester having a cyclic group containing a sulfonyl group on the side chain thereof, a structural unit (a1) derived from an acrylate ester containing an acid dissociable, dissolution inhibiting group and a structural unit (a5) represented by general formula (a5-1) (Y1 represents an aliphatic hydrocarbon group; Z represents a monovalent organic group; a represents an integer of 1 to 3, and b represents an integer of 0 to 2, provided that a+b=1 to 3).
US08268521B2 Electrophotographic photoreceptor, process cartridge, and image forming apparatus
According to an aspect of the invention, an electrophotographic photoreceptor including a conductive substrate and a photosensitive layer provided on a surface of the conductive substrate is provided. In the electrophotographic photoreceptor, an outermost layer of the photosensitive layer containing a crosslinked product formed from at least one charge transporting material having at least one substituent selected from the group consisting of —OH, —OCH3, —NH2, —SH, and —COOH, an acidic substance, and at least one compound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by the following formula (A) and compounds represented by the following formula (B).
US08268519B2 Curable composition, color filter, and manufacturing method of the same
A curable composition including (A) a compound which has a plurality of ethylenically unsaturated double bonds and secondary hydroxyl groups, (B) a photopolymerization initiator, and (C) a coloring agent, is used to provide a curable composition which exhibits excellent storage stability such as dispersion stability even in the case where a coloring agent is included at high concentration, highly sensitive curability by exposure, high adhesiveness to the surface of a hardening material in a curing region when applied in forming patterns on the surface of the hardening material, excellent uncured region removability, and excellent pattern formability; a color filter having colored patterns, which is formed by using the curable composition and has excellent resolution and adhesiveness to the support; and a manufacturing method of the coloring filter with high productivity.
US08268518B2 Method and lithography device with a mask reflecting light
A method and lithography device addressing the problem in projection optics of pupil apodization which leads to imaging defects. As here proposed, the illumination system is configured to illuminate the mask inhomogeneously. As a result, inhomogeneities in reflectivity caused by the mask itself are at least partly counteracted. This compensation not only makes the apodization over the pupil become more symmetric but also makes the intensity variation smaller overall.
US08268516B2 Method for repairing phase shift masks
The invention relates to a method for repairing phase shift masks for photolithography in which a phase shift mask is checked for the presence of defects and, if defects are present, (i) an analysis is conducted as to which of the defects negatively affect imaging properties of the phase shift mask, (ii) said defects are improved, (iii) the imaging properties of the improved phase shift mask are analyzed and the maintenance of a predetermined tolerance criterion is checked, and (iv) the two preceding steps (ii) and (iii) are optionally repeated multiple times if the imaging properties do not meet the predetermined tolerance criterion. In such a method, the imaging properties are analyzed in that, for each defect to be improved, a test variable is determined for the defect as a function of focus and illumination, and at least one additional non-defective point on the phase shift mask in the immediate vicinity of the defect is determined, and a minimum allowable deviation between the test variable for the defect and the non-defective point is predetermined as the tolerance criterion.
US08268512B2 Polymer electrolyte fuel cell and manufacturing method for electrode-membrane-frame assembly
In a manufacturing method for an electrode-membrane-frame assembly in a fuel cell, a first frame member and an electrolyte membrane member are arranged in a first mold for injection molding such that the edge of the electrolyte membrane member is arranged on the first frame member, a second mold is arranged to form a resin flow passage for forming a second frame member which is in contact with the first frame member by interposing the electrolyte membrane member, and a part of the edge of the electrolyte membrane member is pressed and fixed to the first frame member by a presser member mounted on the second mold and a molding resin material is injected into the resin flow passage to form a second frame member.
US08268500B2 Fuel cell, method for operating fuel cell and fuel cell system
In a fuel cell stack, gas channels and heat medium channels are disposed on one surface and the other surface of one plate, respectively. Gas channels are disposed on the other plate such that they face the gas channels in the one plate. A gas inlet header is disposed at the upper part of the gas channel in the plate and a heat medium inlet header is disposed at the upper part of the heat medium channels such that they face the gas inlet header on the other side. Cooling water as a heat medium is supplied from a heat medium supply manifold hole to a heat medium inlet header. Water vapor in the reaction gas (wet fuel gas) is prevented from being condensed in the inlet area of the gas channels by heating the gas inlet header by heat conduction.
US08268498B2 Fuel cell, fuel cell system, and electronic device
A fuel cell with which deterioration of an anode electrode is able to be inhibited by an inexpensive means while generated carbon dioxide is removed, a fuel cell system including the same, and an electronic device including the same are provided. The fuel cell includes: a power generation section having an electrolyte between a cathode electrode and an anode electrode; an anode side platy member provided on the anode electrode side of the power generation section; a fuel vaporization chamber; a through hole that is formed in the anode platy member and gives passage between the anode electrode and the fuel vaporization chamber; a carbon dioxide exhaust section that guides carbon dioxide generated in the power generation section to each side face of the anode platy member or the fuel vaporization chamber; and a valve provided in the carbon dioxide exhaust section.
US08268495B2 Controller in a fuel cell system that controls the measurement of AC impedance and drives the DC/DC converter
When the operation point of a DC/DC converter, which steps up/down the output voltage of a fuel cell stack, is in a range of reduction in response capability and further there is issued a request of determining an AC impedance, a controller switches numbers of the drive phases of the DC/DC converter to determine an AC impedance of the fuel cell stack. If the operation point of the DC/DC converter is in the range of reduction in response capability and further the precision of determining the AC impedance is reduced, then the determination of AC impedance in the range of reduction in response capability is inhibited and the switching of the phases of the DC/DC converter is implemented, thereby causing the operation point of the DC/DC converter to be out of the range of reduction in response capability, with the result that the precision of determining the AC impedance can be raised.
US08268493B2 Fiber optic based in-situ diagnostics for PEM fuel cells
The present disclosure relates to in-situ, line-of-sight measurements of partial pressure and temperature associated with at least one flow channel of a fuel cell. Tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy (TDLAS) is employed for measurements for which water transition states sensitive to temperature and partial pressure are utilized. Measurements are achievable for a fuel cell operating under both steady-state and time-varying load conditions. For steady-state operation, the water partial pressure increases with increasing current density on a cathode side of the fuel cell due to production of water by electrochemical reaction. Temperature in a gas phase remains relatively constant since the fuel cell housing temperature is controlled externally. For non-steady-state operation of the fuel cell through a time-varying current profile, the water partial pressure responds to the load changes rapidly and follows a current profile. The gas temperature varies in response to the dynamic loading and departures from steady-state conditions become more apparent at higher fuel cell operating temperatures.
US08268490B2 Catalyst layer, membrane electrode assembly and fuel cell
Catalyst layers include an electrocatalyst having high oxygen reduction activity that is useful as an alternative material to platinum catalysts. Uses of the catalyst layers are also disclosed. A catalyst layer of the invention includes an electrode substrate and an electrocatalyst on the surface of the electrode substrate, and the electrocatalyst is formed of a metal compound obtained by hydrolyzing a metal salt or a metal complex.
US08268488B2 Thin film electrolyte for thin film batteries
The invention relates to a solid-state lithium-ion thin-film electrolyte that, compared to the current state-of-the-art thin-film electrolyte, Lipon, exhibits an equal or larger electrochemical stability window (0-5.5 V vs. Li+/Li), an equal or smaller electronic conductivity (10−14 S/cm at 25° C.), the same ideal transference number for Li+ ions (t=1.000), and a 10× higher Li+ ion conductivity at −40° C. Latter provides thin-film batteries (TFBs) with at least a 5× higher power performance at −40° C. over the current state-of-the-art Lipon TFBs.
US08268486B2 Positive electrode for rechargeable lithium battery and rechargeable lithium battery including same
A positive electrode includes a current collector and a positive electrode active material layer. The positive electrode active material layer includes a positive electrode active material including a core including a compound LiaCO1-bMbO2 and a surface-treatment layer. In the core compound, 0.95≦a≦1.1, 0.002≦b≦0.02, and M is one or more elements selected from the group consisting of Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Ra, Sc, Y, Ti, Zr, Hf, Rf, V, Nb, Ta, Db, Cr, Mo, W, Sg, Tc, Re, Bh, Fe, Ru, Os, Hs, Rh, Ir, Pd, Pt, Cu, Ag, Au, Zn, Cd, B, Al, Ga, In, Tl, Si, Ge, Sn, P, As, Sb, Bi, S, Se, Te, Po. The surface-treatment layer includes a compound including element of P, and one or more elements selected from the group consisting of Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Ra, Sc, Y, Ti, Zr, Hf, Rf, V, Nb, Ta, Db, Cr, Mo, W, Sg, Tc, Re, Bh, Fe, Ru, Os, Hs, Rh, Ir, Pd, Pt, Cu, Ag, Au, Zn, Cd, B, Al, Ga, In, Tl, Si, Ge, Sn, As, Sb, Bi, S, Se, Te, Po.
US08268483B2 Pouch-type secondary battery
A pouch-type secondary battery including: an electrode assembly comprising a positive electrode plate, a negative electrode plate and a separator; a negative electrode tab electrically connected to the negative electrode plate and having a first tab tape; and a positive electrode tab electrically connected to the positive electrode plate and having a second tab tape wherein one or two of end portions which the positive electrode tab crosses are located inside a sealing portion.
US08268481B2 Nano-sized silicon
A method includes combining fumed silicon oxide with a metal to form silicon having an average particle size of less than approximately 100 nm. The silicon can be incorporated into an anode of a lithium ion cell.
US08268473B2 Electrode plate for non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery and non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery using the same
A non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery of the present invention comprises a long core member and a material mixture layer formed thereon. The electrode plate has an exposed part of the core member formed along one side which is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the core member. The material mixture layer comprises a material that can absorb and desorb lithium ions. A porous film is formed on at least a part of the exposed part of the core member adjacent to an edge face of the material mixture layer and on the material mixture layer and is parallel to the exposed portion of the core member, and the thickness of the porous film is greater at the edge face of the material mixture layer which is parallel to the exposed part of the core member and located on the side of the exposed part of the core member than at a central portion of the material mixture layer in the width direction thereof.
US08268470B2 Ventilator of a fuel-cell vehicle
The present invention relates to a ventilator of fuel-cell vehicles for ventilating hydrogen in the hydrogen-system unit area arranging a hydrogen circulating device in the fuel-cell vehicles boarding the fuel cell. The ventilator of fuel-cell vehicle includes a first ventilating device for taking ventilating air in from a front side of the fuel-cell vehicle to hydrogen-system unit area arranging the fuel cell, the hydrogen supply device, and the hydrogen exhaust device in the center of front and rear direction of the fuel-cell vehicle; and a second ventilating device for sucking the ventilating air taken in from the rear end of vehicle body of the fuel-cell vehicle to the hydrogen-system unit area.
US08268463B2 Secondary battery and method of fabricating the same
The present invention relates to a secondary battery and a method of fabricating the same. In a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the invention, holding members for holding a molded resin member are formed on a cap plate of a bare cell, which prevents the molded resin member from being distorted or detached from the cap plate of the bare cell when battery parts, such as a protection circuit board and a secondary protection element, are coupled to the bare cell by the molded resin member.
US08268461B1 Patterned perpendicular magnetic recording medium with ultrathin oxide film and reduced switching field distribution
A patterned perpendicular magnetic recording disk has a Co-alloy recording layer patterned into discrete data islands arranged in concentric tracks and exhibits a narrow switching field distribution (SFD). The disk includes a substrate, a NiTa alloy planarizing layer on the substrate, a nonmagnetic Ru-containing underlayer on the planarizing layer, an oxide-free Co alloy magnetic recording layer, and an ultrathin oxide film between the Ru-containing layer and the Co-alloy magnetic recording layer. The oxide film may be an oxide selected from a Ta-oxide, a Co-oxide and a Ti-oxide, and is ultrathin so that it may be considered a discontinuous film. The planarizing layer and ultrathin oxide film improve the growth homogeneity of the Co-alloy recording layer, so that the patterned disk with data islands shows significantly reduced SFD.
US08268457B2 Organic electroluminescent device and material for organic electroluminescent device
Disclosed is a novel compound useful as a constituent of an organic EL device. Also disclosed is a practical organic EL device using this compound. This organic EL device has low driving voltage, long life, and reduced leakage current. Specifically disclosed is a compound characterized by having at least one structure (1) shown below in a molecule. Structure (1)
US08268454B2 Composite articles made by process for joining stainless steel part and zirconia ceramic part
A process for joining a stainless steel part and a zirconia ceramic part comprising: providing a SUS part, a ZrO2 ceramic part, a Mo foil and a Cu foil; depositing a nickel coating on a surface of the ZrO2 ceramic part; placing the ZrO2 ceramic part, the Mo foil, the Cu foil, and the SUS part into a mold, the Mo foil and the Cu foil located between the ZrO2 ceramic part and the SUS part; placing the mold into a chamber of a hot press sintering device, heating the chamber and pressing the SUS part with the nickel coating, the ZrO2 ceramic part, the Mo foil, and the Cu foil at least until the SUS part, the ZrO2 ceramic part, the Mo foil and the Cu foil form a integral composite article.
US08268451B2 Chemical protective garment with added flash fire protection
A material intended for personal protective equipment, such as a suit for escaping chemicals or a flash fire is disclosed, wherein the material includes at least four different layers, the layers being: an outer first layer of a material comprising at least one polymer, which material is self-extinguishing; a second layer of a fiber material, which fiber material is self-extinguishing; a third layer being adhesive; and an inner fourth layer being a barrier laminate. All of the at least four different layers individually are attached to layers located next to them.
US08268450B2 Thermoplastic polyamide resin compositions having improved paint adhesion
Thermoplastic polyamide resin compositions include the essential components of polyamide resins, polyalcohol and epoxy resin, and, optionally, one or more additives selected from among thermoplastic impact modifiers, reinforcement agents, and polyoxides; such thermoplastic polyamide resin compositions provide superior impact resistance, heat resistance, low degree of deformation, low degree of contraction, and external appearance, but also superior paint adhesion properties without requiring a primer, and function as an adhesion medium that advantageously may be applied to the interior and exterior parts of an automobile requiring painting.
US08268447B2 Curable resin composition, transparent laminate using the same, and process for producing the transparent laminate
To provide a transparent laminate having a pair of transparent substrates integrated via an adhesive layer, in which the adhesive layer has good tear resistance and good adhesion to the transparent substrates and has excellent transparency.In a first atmosphere, a sealed space having a curable resin composition 14 accommodated between a pair of transparent substrates 10a and 10b, is formed, and then the curable resin composition 14 is cured in a state where the outside of the sealed space is made to be a second atmosphere having a pressure higher than the first atmosphere. As the above curable resin composition, a curable resin composition comprising a urethane oligomer (a) having from 1.8 to 4 curable functional groups on average which are either or both of an acryloyloxy group and a methacryloyloxy group, per molecule, and a hydroxyalkyl methacrylate (b) having a C3-8 hydroxyalkyl group having 1 or 2 hydroxy groups, is used.
US08268440B2 Steel plate-reinforcing material of a type giving vibration-damping performance to a steel plate
A steel plate-reinforcing material of a type giving vibration-damping performance to a steel plate including a restricted layer and a thermosetting foamed viscoelasticity layer, as tackifiers included in said thermosetting foamed viscoelasticity layer, the tackifiers including a terpene system resin, an aliphatic series system petroleum resin and an aromatic series system petroleum resin are used, a fiber is added to the thermosetting foamed viscoelasticity layer.
US08268438B2 Component for use in streams of hot gas
The present application provides a component for use in streams of hot gas, which comprises a first region of fiber-ceramic material, a second region of fiber-ceramic material and a middle layer of fiber-ceramic material which is arranged between the first region and the second region, wherein the fiber-ceramic material of the middle layer has a lower ceramic content than the fiber-ceramic material of the first region and the second region, and wherein at least one acute-angled in-flow edge and/or away-flow edge of the component is formed on the middle layer.
US08268436B2 Tire with indicia containing composite magnetic nanoparticles
The present invention is directed to a pneumatic tire comprising one or more indicia formed from an elastomeric coating composition comprising a diene based elastomer and from 1 to 100 parts by weight, per 100 parts by weight of elastomer, of a nanoparticle comprising an inner core of an inorganic magnetic material at least partially covered by an outer layer of silica.
US08268435B2 Retroreflective sheeting
Retroreflective sheeting (10) comprising a retroreflecting layer (12), which has an array of retroreflective elements (34) formed thereon, and a divergence-enhancing layer (14) which is positioned in front of the retroreflecting layer (12). The divergence-enhancing layer (14) has localized aberration regions (42) which change the divergence of light traveling therethrough. The placement of the localized aberration regions (42) relative to the retroreflective elements (34) broadens the divergence range of the sheeting (10).
US08268429B2 Perforated web product
Web products are disclosed which include forming selected perforation designs and patterns. The perforation designs and patterns can be formed in linear or nonlinear fashion, can extend in the cross direction or the machine direction and can be formed to complement or match an embossed or printed design on the web. The perforation designs and patterns can be formed utilizing various mechanical perforating techniques.
US08268425B2 Polyethylene molding composition for external sheathing of electric cables
The invention relates to a polyethylene molding composition which has a multimodal molar mass distribution and is particularly suitable for producing external sheathing of electric or information transmission cables. The molding composition has a density at a temperature of 23° C. in the range from 0.94 to 0.95 g/cm3 and an MFI190/5 in the range from 1.2 to 2.1 dg/min. It comprises from 45 to 55% by weight of a low molecular weight ethylene homopolymer A, from 30 to 40% by weight of a high molecular weight copolymer B of ethylene and another olefin having from 4 to 8 carbon atoms and from 10 to 20% by weight of an ultra high molecular weight ethylene copolymer C. The invention also relates to an electric or information transmission cable having an external sheath of the polyethylene molding composition which has a thickness in the range from 0.2 to 3 cm.
US08268424B1 Highly absorbent composite compositions, absorbent sheets provided with the compositions, and process for producing the same
A composite structure mainly composed of hydratable fine fibers in the form of microfibril and a water swellable solid body, the fine fibers being obtained from cellulose or a derivative thereof, and at least part of the surface of the solid body is covered with the fine fibers. The absorbent composite can be formed in various form of, for example, particle, pellet, sheet and the like, especially of a sheet type with a supporting sheet of a non-woven fabric. The present invention further provides a method of making the composite structure.
US08268423B2 Vehicular oil pans
Metal plated organic polymer compositions are useful as vehicular engine oil pans. Such oil pans may have lighter weight, and/or superior corrosion resistance, than conventional metal oil pans.
US08268419B2 Polypouch for packaging of superior kerosene oil
The present invention relates to a novel polypouch for packaging of mineral oils. Said polypouch is made up of multilayered polymeric sheet or film of different inventive thicknesses by co-extruded unique combination of low density polyethylene, nylon and adhesive resin resulting in negligible permeation loss of packed mineral oils e.g. kerosene oil.
US08268417B2 Multi-layer container
One embodiment of the present invention provides a partly-biodegradable system, which comprises a non-biodegradable portion and a biodegradable portion wherein the non-biodegradable portion is easily separated from the biodegradable portion for disposal of the system. In certain embodiments, the system further comprises a cover layer of non-biodegradable film which adheres to the first non-biodegradable portion to form a sealed compartment for food or drink reservation.
US08268414B2 Inkjet anti-curl compositions for media and systems for processing the media
Briefly described, embodiments of this disclosure include print media and methods of preparing print media.
US08268411B2 Materials containing voids with void size controlled on the nanometer scale
A method of forming a porous composite material in which substantially all of the pores within the composite material are small having a diameter of about 5 nm or less and with a narrow PSD is provided. The porous composite material includes a first solid phase having a first characteristic dimension and a second phase comprised of pores having a second characteristic dimension, wherein the characteristic dimensions of at least one of said phases is controlled to a value of about 5 nm or less.
US08268410B2 Coating system and method for coating, as well as coated articles
In the case of CVD methods, comprising PECVD and PICVD methods, the aim of the invention is to improve the impurity-free and, as far as possible, temporally and quantitatively precise feeding of process gases for the targeted layer systems. To this end, the invention provides a coating system and a method for coating articles with alternating layers, in the case of which process gases are introduced in an alternating fashion into a gas mixing point and mixed with a further gas and led to the reaction chamber, in which the deposition is carried out by producing a plasma.
US08268409B2 Plasma-enhanced deposition of metal carbide films
Methods of forming a metal carbide film are provided. In some embodiments, methods for forming a metal carbide film in an atomic layer deposition (ALD) type process comprise alternately and sequentially contacting a substrate in a reaction space with vapor phase pulses of a metal compound and one or more plasma-excited species of a carbon-containing compound. In other embodiments, methods of forming a metal carbide film in a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) type process comprise simultaneously contacting a substrate in a reaction space with a metal compound and one or more plasma-excited species of a carbon-containing compound. The substrate is further exposed to a reducing agent. The reducing agent removes impurities, including halogen atoms and/or oxygen atoms.
US08268407B2 Method for manufacturing a perpendicular magnetic write head having write pole
A method for manufacturing a write head having write pole with a tapered upper surface to improve the channeling of magnetic flux to a pole tip of the write pole. The method includes depositing a first layer of magnetic material over a substrate. A CMP stop layer, image transfer layer and mask structure are deposited over the first magnetic layer, the mask structure being formed with an edge located a desired distance from an air bearing surface plane. An ion milling operation is performed to remove portions of the magnetic layer that are not protected by the mask structure, the ion milling being performed in a manner to form a tapered surface on the first magnetic layer. Then, a second magnetic layer is deposited over the first magnetic layer to form a tapered magnetic write pole.
US08268400B2 Method and apparatus for producing conductive material
A photosensitive film, which has a transparent support and a silver salt emulsion layer containing a silver salt formed thereon, is exposed and developed to form a metallic silver portion. The base material to be plated is electrified in a solution containing a metal ion, using the metallic silver portion as a cathode. Then, the electrified base material is subjected to an electroless plating treatment to form a plated layer only on the metallic silver portion. The metal ion in the solution is preferably an ion of copper, nickel, cobalt, or tin.
US08268397B2 Organometallic precursor, thin film having the same, metal wiring including the thin film, method of forming a thin film and method of manufacturing a metal wiring using the same
Disclosed are an organometallic precursor that may be used in manufacturing a semiconductor device, a thin film having the same, a metal wiring including the thin film, a method of forming a thin film and a method of manufacturing a metal wiring. An organometallic precursor including a central metal, a borohydride ligand and an amine ligand for reducing a polarity of the organometallic precursor may be provided onto a substrate, and may be thermally decomposed to form a thin film on the substrate. The organometallic precursor having a reduced polarity may be provided to a chamber with a constant flow rate, and thus stability and/or efficiency of a semiconductor manufacturing process may be improved.
US08268391B2 Biodegradable nano-composition for application of protective coatings onto natural materials
The invention relates to a method for manufacturing a biodegradable composition containing nano-particles of cellulose for forming a protective coating on natural materials. It is an object of the invention to provide a composition for forming a protective coating layer on a biodegradable natural material that imparts to the material improved waterproofing and grease-resistant properties. It is another object to provide a composition for forming a protective coating on natural biodegradable materials that is based on the use of nano-cellulose particles and that protects these materials from swelling, warping, and mechanical damage during contact with water, other aqueous liquids, or grease.
US08268390B2 Adhesive film having at least two continuous phases
An adhesive film which comprises at least two continuous polymer phases A and B each formed from a polymer or polymer mixture A (polymer A for short) and a polymer or polymer mixture B (polymer B for short) and which is obtainable by filming at least one of the polymers, A or B, initially in the form of an aqueous polymer dispersion.
US08268388B1 Method to incorporate a fluorescent internal standard on substrates
A Method to Incorporate a Fluorescent Internal Standard on Substrates (NC#098329). The method includes providing a substrate, operatively coupling internal standard particles to the substrate, forming an insulating buffer layer over the internal standard particles and the substrate, and forming a sensing polymer layer over the insulating buffer layer.
US08268387B2 Method for forming metal line of image sensor
Disclosed is a method for forming a metal line. The method includes preparing a semiconductor substrate having a first metal line, performing an oxidation process with respect to the first metal line, performing an oxide removal process to remove an oxide generated in the oxidation process, forming an etch stop layer on the metal line, forming an interlayer dielectric layer on the first metal line, and forming a damascene pattern on the interlayer dielectric layer, and forming a second metal line, which is connected with the first metal line, in the damascene pattern. The oxidation process for the first metal line can include a hydrogen peroxide treatment process using a solution including oxygen. The oxide removal process can be performed by using an oxalic acid (HOOC—COOH) solution.
US08268384B2 Substrate processing apparatus and substrate processing method
A substrate transfer system to reduce total processing time by transferring a substrate at a first delivery stage to a process block where processing can be carried out earliest. The substrate processing apparatus includes a first transfer device delivering a wafer with respect to a substrate carrier, and a second transfer device delivering a wafer between a plurality of process blocks and the first transfer device via a first delivery stage, to transfer the wafer with respect to the process blocks. The process block where there is no wafer or where processing of the last wafer within the relevant process block will be completed earliest is determined based on processing information of the wafers from the process blocks, and the wafer of the first delivery stage is transferred by the second transfer device to the relevant process block. This ensures smooth transfer of the wafer to the process block.
US08268381B2 Methods and systems for coating a medical device
A coating system and method are described. In some embodiments, a system may include a composition. The composition may include one or more bridged polycyclic compounds. At least one of the bridged polycyclic compounds may include at least two cyclic groups, and at least two of the cyclic groups may include quaternary ammonium moieties. In some embodiments, a method may include applying a coating to a surface of a medical device. The coating may be antimicrobial. A coating may include antimicrobial bridged polycyclic compounds. In some embodiments, bridged polycyclic compounds may include quaternary ammonium compounds. In some embodiments, bridged polycyclic compounds may include guanidinium moieties. Bridged polycyclic compounds based coating systems may impart self-cleaning properties to a surface.
US08268379B2 Method of forming a scrambled egg snack food
A method of forming a snack food product having partially scrambling eggs to obtain partially scrambled eggs having a curd size of about 1 to about 8 mm, mixing at least one food grade binder with the partially scrambled eggs, fully cooking the scrambled eggs, shaping the fully-cooked scrambled eggs, and battering the shaped scrambled eggs.
US08268376B2 Temperature controlled fluid bath food holding device and method
A method is provided for storing a cooked food in a flexible-walled container having an opening. The method includes placing a quantity of food in a flexible-walled container and submerging at least a portion of the container in a liquid with the opening being located so that liquid does not enter the opening. At least the lower portion of the container is maintained in the liquid and the food is maintained in the container below the surface of the liquid. The liquid collapses the container to seal the container. The temperature of the liquid may be maintained at a non-ambient temperature to heat or cool the food as it is stored. The method may also include storing the food adjacent a work surface, or at a remote main vat and transporting the rack to the work surface at which a serving that includes the food is prepared.
US08268371B2 Degradable chewing gum
The present invention provides gum base compositions and chewing gum compositions having non stick or reduced-stick properties and/or increased degradability. The compositions include a terpolymer of methylvinyl ether, maleic anhydride and maleic acid, which provide increased degradability. Methods of preparing the gum base and chewing gum compositions, as well as methods of use, are provided.
US08268370B2 Solid oral sensorial products including stain inhibitor
A solid oral sensorial product includes at least one botanical material and at least one phosphate containing stain inhibitor. The botanical material is selected from the group consisting of tobacco, tea, coffee, cocoa, and combinations thereof.
US08268367B2 Topical herbal formulation for treatment of acne and skin disorders
The present invention provides novel herbal nano emulsion based formulations comprising a combination of lemon juice and/or rose water as therapeutically active aqueous phase entrapped in oil phase selected from one or more essential oils and process for the preparation of the same in pharmaceutically acceptable dosage forms for topical treatment of acne and other skin disorder like eczema, psoriasis, aging scaring and the like with increased efficacy, improved percutaneous penetration, excellent thermodynamic stability ensuring long shelf life, low skin irritation and reservoir effect that promotes drug localization in the skin enabling controlled delivery of the said therapeutic agents.
US08268366B2 Cosmetic composition containing salt-fermented extract of natural materials
The present invention relates to a cosmetic composition containing a fermented extract of natural material. More specifically, the present invention discloses a cosmetic composition that contains either a salt-fermented extract of at least one of red bean, mung bean and black bean or a salt-fermented extract of a mixture obtained by adding deep-sea water to at least one of red bean, mung bean and black bean, and thus has antioxidant and anti-aging effects.
US08268363B2 Pharmaceutical combination preparation containing glycyrrhizine, zinc, and a compound comprising a thiol group or a group that is metabolized thereto
The invention relates to the application of a combination including all forms of zinc or zinc substances, at least one of an orally applied combination of a free thiol group or a group that is metabolized to a free thiol in a mammal, and as the only pure plant part, glycyrrhicinic acid or the substance from succus liquiritiae, for the production of a medication to fight acute or chronic viral infections. The free thiol group or the group that is metabolized to a free thiol in a mammal is derived from N-acetylcysteine, methionine, cysteine, allylcysteine, alpha lipoic acid, or sulfur.
US08268362B2 Medicinal product for the promotion of wound healing
The invention relates to a medicinal product for topical use for the promotion of wound healing, which comprises thrombocytes or thrombocyte fragments, wherein the thrombocytes or thrombocyte fragments contain growth factors and are capable of releasing the same and are present in the lyophilized or deep-frozen state and have been subjected to a process for virus partitioning and/or virus inactivation.
US08268360B2 Motor function improver
The present invention relates to a motor function improving method, including administering or taking a fat globule membrane component.
US08268358B2 Use of simple amino acids to form porous particles
Particles having a tap density of less than 0.4 g/cm3 include a hydrophobic amino acid or salt thereof and a therapeutic, prophylactic or diagnostic agent or any combination thereof. Preferred particles include a phospholipid, have a median geometric diameter between about 5 and about 30 microns and an aerodynamic diameter between about 1 and about 5 microns. The particles can be formed by spray-drying and are useful for delivery to the pulmonary system.
US08268348B2 Combinations and modes of administration of therapeutic agents and combination therapy
The present invention provides combination therapy methods of treating proliferative diseases (such as cancer) comprising a first therapy comprising administering to an individual an effective amount of a taxane in a nanoparticle composition, and a second therapy which may include, for example, radiation, surgery, administration of chemotherapeutic agents, or combinations thereof. Also provided are methods of administering to an individual a drug taxane in a nanoparticle composition based on a metronomic dosing regime.
US08268340B2 Implantable materials having engineered surfaces and method of making same
Implantable materials having engineered surfaces and method of making same comprising geometric features on at least one surface of the material having at least one of chemical, physiochemical and electrochemical activity different than regions of the at least one surface without the features.
US08268339B2 Agrochemical formulations containing pyrrolidone alkylene oxides
The present invention relates to a composition comprising pesticide and polyalkylene oxide. The invention furthermore relates to pyrrolidone alkylene oxides and the use thereof in agrochemical formulations. It furthermore relates to the use of the composition according to the invention for controlling phytopathogenic fungi and/or undesired vegetation and/or undesired attack by insects or mites and/or for regulating the growth of plants. Furthermore, it relates to the use of a composition according to the invention for controlling undesired attack by insects or mites on plants and/or for controlling phytopathogenic fungi and/or for controlling undesired vegetation, where seeds of useful plants are treated with the composition. Finally, the present invention also relates to seed treated with the composition according to the invention. The present invention comprises combinations of preferred features together with other preferred features.
US08268338B2 Bactericidal silver surfactant delivery into coating and polymer compositions
Disclosed are surfactant compounds and compositions that are antimicrobial. Also provided are polymeric compositions incorporating the surfactant compounds. The polymeric compositions may be used to form antibacterial coatings on surfaces.
US08268330B2 Hypoxia inducible factor inducer and methods for using the same
The present invention provides vaccine compositions and methods for using the same. Generally, the vaccine is used to prevent infection of a microorganism that produces an HIF inducing compound. Accordingly, vaccines of the invention comprise at least a portion of an HIF inducing compound that is produced by the microorganism.
US08268327B2 Immediate protection against pathogens via MVA
The invention relates to the methods and kits comprising modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) to provide immediate protection against pathogens. MVA can be delivered to a host animal just prior to or after exposure to a pathogen and provide protection against the pathogen.
US08268326B2 Compositions comprising HMW-MAA and fragments thereof, and methods of use thereof
This invention provides recombinant polypeptides comprising a fragment of a High Molecular Weight Melanoma-Associated Antigen (HMW-MAA), recombinant Listeria strains comprising same, and methods of inducing an anti-HMW-MAA and anti HER-2/neu immune response thus treating and impeding the growth of tumors, comprising administering same.
US08268325B2 Modified Vaccinia Ankara virus variant
The present invention provides an attenuated virus, which is derived from Modified Vaccinia Ankara virus, wherein the MVA-BN virus, or a derivative thereof, induces at least substantially the same level of immunity in vaccinia virus prime/vaccina virus boost regimes when compared to DNA prime/vaccinia virus boost regimes. It further describes recombinant viruses derived from this virus and the use of the virus, or its recombinants, as a medicament or vaccine. A method is provided for inducing an immune response in individuals who may be immune-compromised, receiving antiviral therapy, or have a pre-existing immunity to the vaccine virus.
US08268322B2 Polypeptide specifically binding to vascular endothelial growth factor, fusion protein including polypeptide, and methods therefor
A polypeptide inhibiting binding between a vascular endothelial growth factor and a vascular endothelial growth factor receptor, a fusion protein including the same, and a method of preparing the fusion protein are disclosed.
US08268321B2 Antigen-drug vehicle enabling transmucosal and transdermal administration, and method of inducing mucosal immunity and mucosal vaccine and DDS using the same
Disclosed are an antigen-drug vehicle (AD vehicle) exerting a function of inducing the preferential and selective production of an antigen-specific secretory IgA antibody, local immunity or mucosal immunity; a method of inducing mucosal immunity, a mucosal vaccine and a preventive or a remedy for allergy using the above AD vehicle; and a transmucosal or transdermal DDS using the above vehicle.
US08268315B2 Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) binding proteins
The present invention provides a family of binding proteins that bind and neutralize the activity of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), in particular human HGF. The binding proteins can be used as diagnostic and/or therapeutic agents. With regard to their therapeutic activity, the binding proteins can be used to treat certain HGF responsive disorders, for example, certain HGF responsive tumors.
US08268313B2 Methods for using inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factor activity
The present invention is directed to novel chimeric VEGF receptor proteins comprising amino acid sequences derived from the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptors flt-1 and KDR, including the murine homologue to the human KDR receptor FLK-1, wherein said chimeric VEGF receptor proteins bind to VEGF and antagonize the endothelial cell proliferative and angiogenic activity thereof. The present invention is also directed to nucleic acids and expression vectors encoding these chimeric VEGF receptor proteins, host cells harboring such expression vectors, pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising such proteins, methods of preparing such proteins and to methods utilizing such proteins for the treatment of conditions associated with undesired vascularization.
US08268308B2 Means for the diagnosis and therapy of CTCL
The invention relates to a novel molecule, termed SC5 by the inventors, to a novel allelic form of p140, and to the biological applications of SC5 and p140 molecules, notably in the diagnosis and therapy of CTCL.
US08268307B2 Enhancing efficacy of vaccines administered via the respiratory tract
Disclosed herein are vaccine compositions comprising live attenuated virus with anti-antibody to improve efficacy. Specifically exemplified herein is a composition comprising live attenuated cold adapted influenza virus and an enhancing amount of IgG anti-IgA antibody to temporarily inactivate IgA defenses. Also disclosed herein are methods of immunizing a subject to protect against influenza comprising administering compositions taught herein.
US08268303B2 Methods for producing enriched populations of human retinal pigment epithelium cells for treatment of retinal degeneration
This invention relates to methods for improved cell-based therapies for retinal degeneration and for differentiating human embryonic stem cells and human embryo-derived into retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells and other retinal progenitor cells.
US08268302B2 Cultures, products and methods using umbilical cord matrix cells
Stem cells from human sources can have a variety of useful applications in disease treatment and biotechnology. More particularly the umbilical cord matrix cell cultures of the invention have a variety of totipotent, pluripotent, or multipotent cells for a variety of end uses from a non-controversial, universally available, species-specific source. The technology can have application to any amniotic animal, including agricultural and laboratory animals and humans. The invention relates to isolating the stem cells, culturing the stem cells, maintaining the stem cells, transforming the stem cells into useful cell types using genetic or other transformation technologies, stem cell and tissue banking and using untransformed or transformed cells in disease treatment.
US08268299B2 Self preserved aqueous pharmaceutical compositions
The present invention is directed to the provision of multi-dose, self-preserved ophthalmic compositions. The compositions possess sufficient antimicrobial activity to satisfy USP preservative efficacy requirements, as well as similar preservative standards (e.g., EP and JP), without requiring the presence of conventional anti-microbial preservative agents, such as benzalkonium chloride. The compositions are effectively preserved by a balanced ionic buffer system containing zinc ions at a concentration of 0.04 to 0.9 mM, preferably 0.04 to 0.4 mM. One aspect of the balanced buffer system is limitation of the amount of buffering anions present to a concentration of 15 mM or less, preferably 5 mM or less. In a preferred embodiment, the compositions also contain borat or, most preferably, one or more borate/polyol complexes. The use of propylene glycol as the polyol in such complexes is strongly preferred. Limiting the amount of divalent metals other than zinc and the amount of ionized salts present has also been determined to be important to maximize the antimicrobial activity of the balanced buffer systems.
US08268298B2 Cosmetic or personal care composition comprising a polymer comprising oxazolidon groups
The invention relates to a cosmetic or personal care composition comprising a polymer which polymer comprises oxazolidon groups. Examples of cosmetic and personal care compositions include hair spray compositions, mousses, gels, lotions, tonics, shampoos, conditioners, rinses, hand and body lotions, facial moisturizers, sunscreens, anti-acne preparations, topical analgesics, mascara's, eyeliners, blush, liquid lip color, nail polish foundations.
US08268297B2 Hair cosmetic composition
A hair cosmetic composition, containing the following Components (A) to (D): (A) benzyl alcohol, from 0.1 to 2% by mass; (B) dipropylene glycol, from 0.5 to 20% by mass; (C) malic acid or a salt thereof, from 0.2 to 10% by mass, in terms of the malic acid; and (D) lactic acid or a salt thereof, from 0.2 to 10% by mass, in terms of the lactic acid; and optionally containing a surfactant (E) at a concentration of 2% by mass or less and at a Component (E)/Component (A) mass ratio falling within a range of from 0 to 5.
US08268296B2 Cosmetic composition
A cosmetic agent, in particular a styling agent, containing, in a cosmetically acceptable carrier, a) at least one copolymer A made of at least one monomer A1 selected from acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, acrylic acid alkyl esters, and methacrylic acid alkyl esters, and at least one amphoteric monomer A2 selected from (meth)acryloylalkylbetaines of formula (A2-I) and (meth)acryloylalkylamine oxides of formula (A2-II), such that in formula (A2-I) and in formula (A2-II), R1 denotes H or CH3, R2 and R3, mutually independently in each case, denote optionally branched C1-10 alkyl, and n denotes an integer from 1 to 20, and b) at least one film-forming and/or setting amphoteric polymer B different from copolymer A; and use of the agents for the temporary deformation of hairs.
US08268291B2 Method for monitoring blood flow and metabolic uptake in tissue with radiolabeled alkanoic acid
The present invention relates to novel modified fatty acid analogs, where a positron or gamma-emitting label is placed at a position on a fatty acid backbone and an organic substituent is substituted at the 2,3; 3,4; 4,5; 5,6 and other sequence positions of a fatty acid backbone. These novel fatty acid analogs are designed to enter the tissues of interest by the same long chain fatty acid carrier mechanism as natural fatty acids, however, functional substituents in the 2,3; 3,4; 4,5; 5,6 and other sequence positions, block the catabolic pathway, thus trapping these analogs in a virtually unmodified form in the tissues of interest.
US08268288B2 Regeneration of aluminum hydride
The present invention provides methods and materials for the formation of hydrogen storage alanes, AlHx, where x is greater than 0 and less than or equal to 6 at reduced H2 pressures and temperatures. The methods rely upon reduction of the change in free energy of the reaction between aluminum and molecular H2. The change in free energy is reduced by lowering the entropy change during the reaction by providing aluminum in a state of high entropy, and by increasing the magnitude of the change in enthalpy of the reaction or combinations thereof.
US08268286B2 High strength, fine grained spinel for window applications, methods of manufacture thereof and articles comprising the same
Disclosed herein is a spinel article. The article comprises a spinel material, wherein the spinel material has a monomodal grain size distribution with average grain sizes of less than or equal to about 15 micrometers, and a biaxial flexural strength of greater than or equal to about 300 megapascals when measured by a ring-on-ring flexural test as per ASTM Standard C1499-08. Disclosed herein too is a spinel article manufactured by a method comprising calcining a spinel powder; milling the powder in a milling medium; granulating the powder; screening the powder to a mesh size of about 40 to about 200 mesh; pressing the powder to form an article; burning out organics from the article; sintering the article; and hot isostatically pressing the article.
US08268285B2 Process for the recovery of tellurium from minerals and/or acidic solutions
A process and method for recovering elemental tellurium from minerals and acidic solutions using a reducing sugar as the reducing agent in order to reduce and precipitate tellurium as tellurium dioxide (TeO2) from which elemental tellurium may be recovered.
US08268283B2 Crystalline carbonaceous material with controlled interlayer spacing and method of preparing same
A crystalline carbon material with controlled interlayer spacing and a method of manufacturing the crystalline carbon material are disclosed. The crystalline carbon material has peaks of a (002) plane at 2θ=23°±5.0° and 2θ=26.5°±1.0° when X-ray diffraction is measured using a CuKα ray. The peak height at 2θ=23°±5.0° is higher than the one at 2θ=26.5°±1.0°.
US08268282B2 Self orienting micro plates of thermally conducting material as component in thermal paste or adhesive
The present invention relates generally to thermally-conductive pastes for use with integrated circuits, and particularly, but not by way of limitation, to self-orienting microplates of graphite.
US08268280B2 Method for production of calcium compounds
The present invention relates to a method for production of calcium compounds having very low content of phosphorus and boron from an impure calcium chloride, solution containing phosphorus and boron, which method comprises the following steps: a) addition of a FeCl3-solution to the calcium chloride solution, b) adjusting the pH of the solution by addition of a base to between 3 and 9.5 for precipitation of iron hydroxide, iron phosphate and boron compounds, c) removal of the solid precipitate from the solution in step b) obtaining a purified calcium chloride solution, d) precipitation of a calcium compound from the solution from step c), and e) separation of the calcium compound from the solution in step d).
US08268272B2 Method for removing vinyl monomers from a gas stream
A method for removing vinyl monomers from a gas stream comprises steps of: irradiating a photoactive-inorganic medium by a light emitting unit to activate the photoactive-inorganic medium; and pumping a gas stream including vinyl monomers to contact with the activated photoactive-inorganic medium to make the vinyl monomers in the gas stream to polymerize on the photoactive-inorganic medium to jointly form a polymeric nano-composite.
US08268271B2 Catalytic moving bed filter
The present invention relates generally to a method for removing contaminants from a fluid stream and chemically upgrading the stream at the same time. More particularly, the invention relates to a catalytic moving bed filter for removing contaminants from a gas or vapor stream and to compositions comprising both moving bed filter materials and one or more catalysts intimately admixed therewith.
US08268268B2 Rapid method for preparing titania or precursor thereof with controllable microporous-mesoporous structure
A method for preparing titania or precursor thereof with a controllable structure from micropore to mesopore is provided. The method is characterized in that the alkali metal titanate as raw material is reacted for 0.5˜72 hours in the wet atmosphere with humidity of 2˜100% at temperature of 20˜250° C., then washed with water or acid, finally performed by air roasting or solvent thermal treatment. The method has advantages that the raw material is easy to be obtained, the conditions and preparation are controllable, the pore structure may be adjusted from micropore to mesopore, crystal mixing and doping are easy, reacting time is short, preparing cost is low, and the said method is suitable for large scale production and so on. The most probable aperture of titanium oxide or precursor thereof with a controllable structure from micropore to mesopore is in the range of 1˜20 nm, the pore volume thereof is in the range of 0.05˜0.4 cm3/g, and the specific surface area thereof is more than 30 m2/g. The titania is at least one of anatase-phase titania, TiO2(B)-phase titania and rutile-phase titania.
US08268250B2 Proton acceptance type sensor, hydrogen gas sensor and acid sensor
The present invention provides a low-cost hydrogen gas sensor, which exhibits high sensory selectivity for protons and operates at room temperature, and can also provide a highly sensitive sensor capable of fulfilling the important functions of detecting hydrogen gas and preventing leakage accidents in production plants that use hydrogen gas as a carrier, in hydrogen gas storage facilities, and in so-called fuel cells that use hydrogen gas as an energy source. In addition, the sensor is also effective as an acid sensor for hydrofluoric acid and the like.
US08268248B2 Online analyzer
An on-line analyzer for analyzing a test sample, having a measuring device, which includes at least one measuring cell and at least one optoelectronic component. The measuring device determines, at at least one wavelength, the transmission or absorption of electromagnetic radiation passing through the test sample and provides measurement signals. The analyzer further includes a control/evaluation unit, which evaluates the measurement signals delivered by the measuring device and makes analysis data available. The measuring cell and the control/evaluation unit are located spatially separated from one another; the at least one optoelectronic component of the measuring device is assigned to the control/evaluation unit; the measuring cell and the at least one optoelectronic component are connected together via a light wave conductor.
US08268245B2 Methods and devices for determining analytes in liquids of small volumes
A method for determining analytes in a liquid is provided comprising applying a liquid volume to be examined to a substrate of a transport plane; moving the liquid volume to be examined on the substrate of the transport plane to a site of examination; contacting the liquid volume to be examined with at least one sensory element, wherein the sensory element is located in a detection plane opposite to the substrate of the transport plane; and determining an analyte in the liquid volume to be examined by the sensory element, wherein the liquid volume is only in contact with the substrate of the transport plane during the step of moving the liquid volume to be examined on the substrate of the transport plane to a site of examination. The application also concerns a device for determining analytes in a liquid corresponding to the method according to the invention.
US08268243B2 Blood glucose tracking apparatus and methods
A measurement module for glucose testing includes a glucose testing measurement module housing, a test strip receptacle formed in the housing, and a connector portion formed in the housing and shaped to permit mechanical removable attachment of the housing to a hand-held computer. Electronics determine the amount of glucose present in a sample of body fluid, when the test strip is positioned in the receptacle and the body fluid is placed on a test strip, and communicate the glucose amount to the hand-held computer via the connector portion.
US08268241B1 Accelerated outgassing via vacuum/heat process
A process wherein outgassing rates of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in an object, particularly habitable vehicles, are accelerated by placing the subject object in a vacuum chamber and placing heat sources either inside the object being treated, outside the object, or both. The process includes measuring and monitoring the temperature of selected surfaces inside the object being treated. The heat sources are adjusted to maintain a temperature which is safe for the materials and which will promote maximum outgassing rates. During the treatment process, while a vacuum and heat are being applied to the subject object, the gasses in the chamber are monitored for both their composition and quantity. When the outgassing rates of the VOCs reach acceptable levels, the process cycle is terminated. The vacuum in the chamber is broken to restore atmospheric pressure, and the object being treated is removed from the chamber.
US08268230B2 Fabrication of transparent ceramics using nanoparticles
A method of fabrication of a transparent ceramic using nanoparticles synthesized via organic acid complexation-combustion includes providing metal salts, dissolving said metal salts to produce an aqueous salt solution, adding an organic chelating agent to produce a complexed-metal sol, heating said complexed-metal sol to produce a gel, drying said gel to produce a powder, combusting said powder to produce nano-particles, calcining said nano-particles to produce oxide nano-particles, forming said oxide nano-particles into a green body, and sintering said green body to produce the transparent ceramic.
US08268229B2 Injection blow molding machine and process for the stretch blow molding of plastic containers
An injection blow molding machine having an injection molding rotor including a plurality of injection molding units with individual split mold cavities for preforms, a transfer rotor, a blow molding rotor including a plurality of blow molds, and a removal rotor, essentially within a shared operating plane, and split mobile neck molding parts which fit into each blow mold and each mold cavity and which are transferred with a preform and removed with a stretch-blown bottle from the blow mold. In the process, each preform is transferred in the neck molding part into the blow mold.
US08268225B2 Medical device manufacturing method and medical device assembly
A medical device in which a part to be secondarily shaped comprises a molded silicone rubber article is subjected to heatless shaping by irradiation with electron-rays. The irradiation with electron-rays enables shaping and, furthermore, sterilization under some conditions. In a medical device comprising a part in which at least a silicone rubber is used and the mechanical properties of the silicone rubber preferentially appear, the shape of the above-described part upon molding is deformed with the use of a correcting member to a level exceeding the desired deformed shape and maintained in this state. Next, electron-ray irradiation is conducted in this state and then the correcting member is eliminated. Thus, the desired deformed shape intermediate between the shape upon the molding and the shape upon the electron-ray irradiation can be obtained.
US08268224B2 Method for producing polyethersulfone fiber
The present invention provides a method for producing a polyethersulfone fiber, the method comprising the steps of discharging an electrically charged solution comprising a polyethersulfone and a solvent from a container; and drawing the charged solution by electrical attraction in an electrical field generated between the solution and an electrically charged collecting means having the opposite charge of the solution, while evaporating at least a portion of the solvent to form a polyethersulfone fiber. The fiber obtained in the present invention has a small average fiber diameter and can be made into a thin fiber cloth.
US08268217B2 Method and device for encapsulating electronic components with a conditioning gas
The invention relates to a method for encapsulating electronic components in a mold by the processing steps of: A) placing the electronic component for encapsulating in a mold cavity, and B) feeding an encapsulating material to the mold cavity, wherein at least a part of the mold surface defining the mold cavity is brought into contact with a conditioning gas containing a decreased oxygen concentration relative to the atmosphere. The invention also relates to a device for encapsulating an electronic component, in particular a semiconductor, with encapsulating material.
US08268216B2 Process of forming a compression-molded closure liner
A container closer includes a cap and a seal liner coupled to the cap. The cap is configured to mount on a filler neck of a container to mate the seal liner with a brim of the filler neck.
US08268215B2 Laminated film for reflection plate
A laminated film for a reflecting plate is provided that comprises a layer A and a layer B, the layer A comprising a polyester that comprises substantially no antimony element and preferably comprises 1 to 25 wt % of inert particles having an average particle diameter of 0.3 to 3.0 μm and the layer B being in contact with the layer A and comprising a polyester which preferably comprises 31 to 80 wt % of inert particles having an average particle diameter of 0.3 to 3.0 μm. This laminated film has a practically satisfactory capability of reflecting visible light, can be produced stably even if inert particles are added in high concentration, hardly has streak-like defects, and can be suitably used as a substrate for a reflecting plate for a liquid crystal display or an internally illuminating electrical billboard.
US08268214B2 Soft mold and method for fabricating the same
A soft mold and a method for fabricating the same are disclosed. A master mold that has a pattern on a substrate is first formed. A first liquid high polymer precursor is formed on the master mold and then partially cured. A support film having high UV transmittance is attached to the partially cured high polymer. The attached support film and the partially cured high polymer are treated with a coupling agent and a second liquid high polymer precursor is formed on the partially cured high polymer and the support film. The second liquid high polymer precursor and the partially cured high polymer are then fully cured to form a mold. The fully cured mold is stripped from the master mold to form a soft mold having a predetermined shape on one surface.
US08268213B2 Flexible lip extruder, and methods of extruding material
An extrusion die or extruder having a flexible lip that is moveable by a geared mechanism. A shaft is operably connected to at least one gear, which in turn is operably connected to a movable lip of the extruder. Rotation of the shaft results in movement of the extruder lip.
US08268209B2 Pattern forming method and its mold
In a mold in which a pattern is formed of a fine concavo-convex shape, two or more of alignment marks for determining a relative positional relation between a substrate and a mold are formed concentrically. Moreover, a damaged mark is identified from the positional information and shape of the respective marks, and an alignment between the mold and the substrate to which a resin film is applied is carried out excluding the damaged mark.
US08268208B2 Method for reducing variability in carbon-carbon composites
Method for producing carbon-carbon composite brake discs by: (a) providing annular nonwoven carbon fiber brake disc preforms; (b) carbonizing the brake disc preforms; (c) densifying the carbonized preforms by CVD/CVI (chemical vapor deposition/chemical vapor infiltration); (d) densifying the products of step (c) with isotropic or mesophase pitch by VPI (vacuum pitch infiltration) or RTM (resin transfer molding) processing; (e) carbonizing the preforms to remove non-carbon volatiles from the pitch and to open porosity in the pitch-infused preforms; (f) densifying the products of step (e) with isotropic or mesophase pitch by VPI or RTM processing; (g) carbonizing the preforms to remove non-carbon volatiles from pitch and to open porosity in the pitch-infused preforms; and (h) heat-treating the resulting pitch-densified carbon-carbon composite brake disc preforms. This manufacturing approach reduces lot-to-lot variability in friction performance of the resulting carbon-carbon composite brake discs.
US08268207B2 Densification of C-C composites with pitches followed by CVI/CVD
A method of manufacturing pitch-based carbon-carbon composite useful as a brake disc, includes (a) providing annular carbon fiber brake disc preform; (b) heat-treating the carbon fiber preform; (c) infiltrating the carbon fiber preform with pitch feedstock by VPI or RTM processing; (d) carbonizing the pitch-infiltrated carbon fiber preform; (e) repeating steps (c) and (d) to achieve a density in the carbon fiber preform of approximately 1.5 g/cc to below 1.7 g/cc; and (f) densifying the preform by CVI/CVD processing to a density higher than 1.7 g/cc. Employing lower cost VPI and/or RTM processing in early pitch densification cycles and using more expensive CVI/CVD processing only in the last densification cycle provides C-C composites in which the pitch-based components resist pullout, resulting in a longer wearing composite.
US08268206B2 Method of forming a dental article
A method of making a dental article including a pressable body possessing a flexural strength of at least 125 MPa and flowable at about 850° C. to about 950° C. The body is composed of at least a glass matrix phase having a composition comprising Li2O and MgO.
US08268204B2 Method for manufacturing sintered annular nuclear fuel pellet without surface grinding
A method for manufacturing an annular nuclear fuel pellet is provided. In the method, an annular nuclear fuel green compact whose lateral cross-section is a trapezoid is prepared. The thickness of the annular nuclear fuel green compact reduces along one direction of the central axis, and a green density of the nuclear fuel green compact increases along one direction of the central axis. The annular nuclear fuel green compact is sintered under a reducing gas atmosphere so that the annular nuclear fuel pellet is obtained. According to this method, the annular pellet which has uniform inner and outer diameters and small diametric tolerances along the pellet height is fabricated without grinding the pellet surfaces.
US08268203B2 Method for producing microcrystalline titanium oxide
A method for producing microcrystalline titanium dioxide in the rutile form having a crystal size below 15 nm by an aqueous method, and a titanium dioxide product doped with silicon obtained by the method. The method generally includes adding a silicon containing compound during crystal formation to provide said titanium dioxide product with a small crystal size.
US08268199B1 Electrical devices and dielectric fluids containing estolide base oils
Provided herein are dielectric fluids comprising at least one estolide compound of formula: in which n is an integer equal to or greater than 0; m is an integer equal to or greater than 1; R1, independently for each occurrence, is selected from optionally substituted alkyl that is saturated or unsaturated, and branched or unbranched; R2 is selected from hydrogen and optionally substituted alkyl that is saturated or unsaturated, and branched or unbranched; and R3 and R4, independently for each occurrence, are selected from optionally substituted alkyl that is saturated or unsaturated, and branched or unbranched. Also provided herein are uses of dielectric fluids and electrical devices such as transformers that comprise a dielectric fluid comprising at least one estolide compound.
US08268192B2 Blue phosphor, display device including the same, and associated methods
A blue phosphor, a display device including the same, and associated methods, the blue phosphor including BaMgAl10O17:Eu (BAM) phosphor particles having a surface component and an internal component, wherein an aluminum/barium (Al/Ba) molar ratio of the surface component of the phosphor particles is 1.1 to about 1.4 times the Al/Ba molar ratio of the internal component of the phosphor particles, and the Al/Ba molar ratios are continuously variable between the internal component and the surface component.
US08268189B2 Storage-stable accelerator solution
Accelerator solution suitable for forming a redox system with peroxides and having a high storage stability, consisting essentially of (a) more than 1.0 wt % of one or more reducing agents, at least one of them being selected from ascorbic acid and sodium formaldehyde sulphoxylate, (b) one or more metal salts, at least one of them being selected from the group consisting of transition metal salts, lithium salts, and magnesium salts, (c) one or more organic oxygen-containing solvents, (d) optionally one or more stabilisers, and (e) optionally water.
US08268186B2 Fluorinated amphoteric surfactants
A compound of Formula (I): wherein Ra is linear or branched F(CF2)n(CH2CF2)m—, or linear or branched F(CF2)o interrupted by 1 to 6 catenary oxygen atoms, each oxygen bonded to two carbon atoms, m is 1 to 4, n is 2 to 6, o is 2 to 7, A is O or (CH2)k—COO, R1 is hydrogen or a methyl, R2 and R3 are each independently alkyl having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, and p, q and k are each independently integers from 1 to 10, which is suitable for use as a surfactant and in fire fighting formulations.
US08268185B2 Method for analyzing quartz member
A method of analyzing a quartz member includes the step of supplying an etchant to the quartz member so as to etch the quartz member. The method also includes analyzing the etchant used in the supplying step. The etchant is supplied to a concave etchant receiving portion that is formed in the quartz member prior to the supplying step and has an inner wall thereof formed of the quartz member.
US08268184B2 Etch process for reducing silicon recess
A method for selectively etching a substrate is described. The method includes disposing a substrate comprising a silicon nitride (SiNy) layer overlying silicon in a plasma etching system, and transferring a pattern to the silicon nitride layer using a plasma etch process, wherein the plasma etch process utilizes a process composition having as incipient ingredients a process gas containing C, H and F, and an additive gas including CO2. The method further includes: selecting an amount of the additive gas in the plasma etch process to achieve: (1) a silicon recess formed in the silicon having a depth less than 10 nanometers (nm), and (2) a sidewall profile in the pattern having an angular deviation from 90 degrees less than 2 degrees.
US08268183B2 Method of processing solid surface with gas cluster ion beam
A solid surface is processed while corner portions of a relief structure are protected from deformation. A method of processing a solid surface with a gas cluster ion beam includes a cluster protection layer formation step of forming, on the solid surface, a relief structure having protrusions with a cluster protection layer formed to cover an upper part thereof and recesses without the cluster protection layer; an irradiation step of emitting a gas cluster ion beam onto the solid surface having the relief structure formed in the cluster protection layer formation step; and a removal step of removing the cluster protection layer. A thickness T of the cluster protection layer satisfies T > nY + ( b 2 ⁢ Y 2 ⁢ n - nY 2 ⁡ ( b 4 - 16 ⁢ a 2 ) 1 2 2 ) 1 2 , where n is a dose of the gas cluster ion beam, and Y is an etching efficiency of the cluster protection layer, expressed as an etching volume per cluster (a and b are constants).
US08268181B2 Plasma ashing apparatus and endpoint detection process
A plasma ashing apparatus for removing organic matter from a substrate including a low k dielectric, comprising a first gas source; a plasma generating component in fluid communication with the first gas source; a process chamber in fluid communication with the plasma generating component; an exhaust conduit in fluid communication with the process chamber; wherein the exhaust conduit comprises an inlet for a second gas source and an afterburner assembly coupled to the exhaust conduit, wherein the inlet is disposed intermediate to the process chamber and an afterburner assembly, and wherein the afterburner assembly comprises means for generating a plasma within the exhaust conduit with or without introduction of a gas from the second gas source; and an optical emission spectroscopy device coupled to the exhaust conduit comprising collection optics focused within a plasma discharge region of the afterburner assembly. An endpoint detection process for an oxygen free and nitrogen free plasma process comprises monitoring an optical emission signal of an afterburner excited species in an exhaust conduit of the plasma asher apparatus. The process and apparatus can be used with carbon and/or hydrogen containing low k dielectric materials.
US08268180B2 Methods of fabricating large-area, semiconducting nanoperforated graphene materials
Methods for forming a nanoperforated graphene material are provided. The methods comprise forming an etch mask defining a periodic array of holes over a graphene material and patterning the periodic array of holes into the graphene material. The etch mask comprises a pattern-defining block copolymer layer, and can optionally also comprise a wetting layer and a neutral layer. The nanoperforated graphene material can consist of a single sheet of graphene or a plurality of graphene sheets.
US08268167B2 Separation apparatus and method
Separating apparatus, for separating a substance from a liquid on which the substance can float, comprises: a separation chamber; an inlet adapted to convey a supply comprising the substance and the liquid into the separation chamber; and an outlet adapted to convey liquid collected in the separation chamber out of the separation chamber. The inlet is arranged such that, in use, the supply emerging from the inlet into the chamber is directed upwardly into the chamber, and the apparatus further comprises venting means arranged to convey gas out of the chamber. The apparatus may further comprise a floating pick up connected to a pump for pumping the supply to the separation chamber. In certain examples a non-floating pick up is used, comprising an elongate hollow body with a pick up inlet mouth in the form of a vertical slot extending along a length of the body.
US08268157B2 Plating bath and method
Copper plating baths containing a leveling agent that is a reaction product of a certain imidazole 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.
US08268156B2 Multi material secondary metallization scheme in MEMS fabrication
Processes are provided herein for the fabrication of MEMS utilizing both a primary metal that is integrated into the final MEMS structure and two or more sacrificial secondary metals that provide structural support for the primary metal component during machining. A first secondary metal is thinly plated around the primary metal and over the entire surface of the substrate without using photolithography. A second secondary metal, is then thickly plated over the deposited first secondary metal without using photolithography. Additionally, techniques are disclosed to increase the deposition rate of the first secondary metal between primary metal features in order to prevent voiding and thus enhance structural support of the primary metal during machining.
US08268154B1 Selective electrochemical accelerator removal
Methods and apparatus are provided for planar metal plating on a workpiece having a surface with recessed regions and exposed surface regions; comprising the steps of: causing a plating accelerator to become attached to said surface including the recessed and exposed surface regions; selectively removing the plating accelerator from the exposed surface regions without performing substantial metal plating on the surface; and after removal of plating accelerator is at least partially complete, plating metal onto the surface, whereby the plating accelerator remaining attached to the surface increases the rate of metal plating in the recessed regions relative to the rate of metal plating in the exposed surface regions.
US08268150B2 Workpiece carrier for conveying a workpiece to be painted
In order to create a workpiece carrier for conveying a workpiece to be painted, in particular, a vehicle body through at least one electrophoretic dip paint bath and by means of at least one conveyor device following the electrophoretic dip paint bath, comprising at least one electrical contacting device for passing a coating current into the workpiece when the workpiece is conveyed through the electrophoretic dip paint bath and at least one contact surface, at which the workpiece carrier comes into contact with the conveyor device following the electrophoretic dip paint bath, with which dip paint is prevented from rubbing off in the conveyor device following the electrophoretic dip paint bath, it is suggested that at least one contact surface be electrically insulated from the at least one contacting device.
US08268149B2 Electro-blotting devices, systems, and kits, and methods for their use
The invention provides a dry electroblotting system for dry blotting gels, in which the system includes an electroblotting transfer stack that comprises an analysis gel and a blotting membrane, an anode, a body of anodic gel matrix juxtaposed with the anode between the anode and the transfer stack, a cathode, and a body of cathodic gel matrix juxtaposed with the cathode between the cathode and the transfer stack, in which the anodic gel matrix and the cathodic gel matrix each comprise an ion source for electrophoretic transfer. The dry electroblotting system does not use any liquid buffers that are added to the system just before electroblotting (such as when the transfer stack is being assembled). The anode, the cathode, or both can be separate from a power supply and provided as part of a disposable electrode assembly that also includes a body of gel matrix that includes ions for electrophoretic transfer.
US08268146B2 Measurement of hydrogen sulphide and thiols in fluids
A wellbore tool has an electrochemical sensor for measuring the amount of hydrogen sulphide or thiols in a fluid downhole in a wellbore. The sensor comprises a temperature- and pressure-resistant housing containing a flow path for the fluids. The fluids flow over one side of a gas permeable membrane the other side of the membrane being exposed to a chamber containing at least two electrodes and containing a reaction solution which together with the hydrogen sulphide or thiols create a redox reaction resulting in an electrical current dependent upon the amount of hydrogen sulphide or thiols in the fluid. Measurement is made by passing formation fluid along the flow path and repeatedly applying varying potential to one electrode and measuring the peak current flowing between that electrode and a second electrode.
US08268145B2 Electrochemical cell and method of making an electrochemical cell
Electrochemical test cells are made with precision and accuracy by adhering an electrically resistive sheet having a bound opening to a first electrically conductive sheet. A notching opening is then punched through the electrically resistive sheet and the first electrically conductive sheet. The notching opening intersects the first bound opening in the electrically resistive sheet, and transforms the first bound opening into a notch in the electrically resistive sheet. A second electrically conductive sheet is punched to have a notching opening corresponding to that of first electrically conductive sheet, and this is adhered to the other side of the electrically resistive sheet such that the notching openings are aligned. This structure is cleaved from surrounding material to form an electrochemical cell that has a sample space for receiving a sample defined by the first and second conductive sheets and the notch in the electrically resistive sheet.
US08268143B2 Oxygen-effect free analyte sensor
The present invention provides an electrochemical sensor having a sensing chemistry that operates substantially free of any “oxygen effect”. The electrochemical sensors are useful in determining the level of an analyte in a biological sample from a subject. The present invention also provides sensor assemblies including the electrochemical sensors as well as methods of using the same.
US08268142B2 RF sputtering arrangement
Apparatus for sputtering comprises a vacuum chamber, at least one first electrode having a first surface arranged in the vacuum chamber, a counter electrode having a surface arranged in the vacuum chamber and a RF generator. The RF generator is configured to apply a RF electric field across the at least one first electrode and the counter electrode so as to ignite a plasma between the first electrode and the counter electrode. The counter electrode comprises at least two cavities in communication with the vacuum chamber. the cavities each have dimensions such that a plasma can be formed in the cavity.
US08268140B2 Separator for chlor-alkali electrolytic cells and method for its manufacturing
The invention relates to a synthetic diaphragm for chlor-alkali cells with improved energy consumption and gas separation characteristics. The diaphragm comprises a network of polymer fibers bound to a hydrophilic ceramic material containing zirconium chemically bound to hydroxyl groups. The ceramic material is obtained starting from ZrO2 by a process of hydration under vacuum which can be carried out directly in the cell by means of suitable equipment.
US08268136B2 Electrohydraulic and shear cavitation radial counterflow liquid processor
Axially fed fluid is sheared during long residence time in a radial workspace between counter-rotating coaxial disk-shaped centrifugal impellers. Gases evolve in the fractal turbulence of a shear layer, which is forced between laminar boundary layers, and an axial suction pump axially extracts evolved noncondensables and volatiles through cores of radial vortices in the shear layer. Cavitation due to shear between the impellers kills pathogens by shock waves, microjets, OH radicals, and nearby UV light pulses. Oppositely charged electrodes bounding the workspace cause electroporesis and electrohydraulic cavitation. The electrodes are counter-rotating ridged armatures of disk dynamos, forming a dynamic capacitor having audio frequency pulsed electric fields. Electrode erosion by arcing is prevented by shear between the electrodes.
US08268130B2 Paper and method for making paper
The invention relates to a paper that is formed of a fiber-based source material and is applicable as printing paper. According to the invention, the surface of the paper is surface-treated by arranging sufficient density on the surface, such that a mixture is arranged at least on one side of the surface of the paper for forming a surface layer, which mixture comprises pigments in an amount of 75-95% by weight of the dry weight and bonding agent in an amount of 5-25% by weight of the dry weight, and the porosity of the surface layer of the paper is less than 0.07 ml/g as defined by mercury porosimeter process. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for making paper.
US08268129B2 Nonwoven having improved wet fastness and alkali resistance and cellulose hydrate-based food casing from said nonwoven
The invention relates to a wet-fast nonwoven, preferably a fiber paper, which comprises fibers from a cellulose-containing material and fibers from a thermoplastic material welded firmly together at their points of intersection. The fibers from the cellulose-containing material are preferably hemp fibers while the fibers from the thermoplastic material are preferably fibers from polypropylene, polyester or polyamide. The fibers are interlinked under the action of pressure and/or heat, especially using a pair of heated calender rolls. The nonwoven or the fiber paper is especially used to reinforce food casings based on regenerated cellulose, especially in artificial cellulose hydrate-based sausage skins.
US08268126B2 Method, equipment and applications for fast complete dissolution and hydrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass
The invention herein discloses a method and its equipment for fast and complete dissolution and hydrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass. Lignocellulosic biomass is placed in a dilute alkaline solution and then rapidly heated to a temperature between 329˜367° C. to achieve complete dissolution of the lignocellulosic biomass as biomass solution in 0.7˜2 s. The biomass solution is further hydrolyzed rapidly to hydrolysates at homogeneous conditions. The solubilized biomass solution is easy to rapidly hydrolyze into sugars to produce bio-fuels and other value-added products, and to rapidly quench to produce micron particles in the continuous flow equipment at high pressures and high temperatures. The invention herein provides a simple and low-cost method to quickly dissolve and hydrolyze biomass with great potential for a novel biorefinery.
US08268120B2 Method for bleaching chemical paper pulps by final ozone treatment at high temperature
A method for treating a prebleached chemical pulp including a step of ozone treatment of the pulp, carried out at a temperature above 60° C., advantageously above 65° C. and even more advantageously above or equal to 70° C.
US08268117B2 Showerhead electrodes
A silicon-based showerhead electrode is provided that can include a backside, a frontside, and a plurality of showerhead passages extending from the backside of the silicon-based showerhead electrode to the frontside of the silicon-based showerhead electrode. The silicon-based showerhead electrode can comprise single crystal silicon. The silicon-based showerhead electrode may further include a plurality of partial recesses formed within the single crystal silicon along the backside of the silicon-based showerhead electrode. The plurality of partial recesses can leave a thickness of single crystal silicon between each of the partial recesses and the frontside of the silicon-based showerhead electrode.
US08268109B2 Method of forming polymer dispersed liquid crystal layer including dichroic dye
Example embodiments relate to a method of forming a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) layer including a dichroic dye. A first PDLC layer including the dichroic dye and a second PDLC layer having no dichroic dye may be bonded to each other so as to form the desired PDLC layer.
US08268108B2 Gas barrier coating having improved bond strength
In order to maintain adequate bond strength of a composite in which a gas barrier coating comprising a clay dispersion and a polymer solution or dispersion of a PVA and/or EVA is positioned between two flexible plastics films using an adhesive, it is necessary that the clay dispersion and the polymer solution or dispersion should be kept separate until shortly before they are to be applied.
US08268107B2 Fly away caul plate
Techniques and apparatus for providing a fly away caul plate are disclosed. In an embodiment, a method for curing a composite structure includes placing a pre-cured caul plate proximate an uncured composite lay-up, the lay-up may or may not include one or more stiffeners extending substantially perpendicular to the lay-up surface, the caul plate including an aperture for receiving the at least one stiffener. A force may be exerted against the caul plate to engage the composite lay-up. Heat and/or pressure may be applied to the composite lay-up to cure the stiffener panel and co-bond the caul plate to the composite lay-up.
US08268104B1 Methods of using UV curing cationic epoxy for windshield repair
A method of using UV cationic epoxy to repair cracks and breaks windshields in order to eliminate oxygen inhibition and shrinkage. The method includes embodiments that employ pretreatment or priming of the of a crack or break in order to negate the moisture and PVB retardation of the UV cationic epoxy polymerization and mixing the UV cationic epoxy and a UV radical resin to create a hybrid or; adding other ingredients to the UV cationic epoxy to negate the moisture and PVB retardation; and use of the UV cationic epoxy as a cap over repair resin/epoxy and as a pit filler. Other combinations of materials and procedures are disclosed.
US08268103B2 Method and apparatus for the circumferential labeling of a run of blow molded containers or bottles where the individual containers or bottles in the run have at least one varying dimension due to manufacturing tolerances, the method and apparatus providing more consistent labeling of individual containers or bottles in the run of containers or bottles
A method and apparatus for the circumferential labeling containers where the individual containers may have at least one varying dimension, due to manufacturing tolerances. The method and apparatus may provide more consistent labeling of individual containers in the run of containers.
US08268101B2 Austenitic stainless steel strip having a bright surface finish and excellent mechanical properties
The invention relates to an austenitic stainless steel strip having an elastic limit Rp0.2 which is greater than or equal to 600 MPa, a breaking load Rm which is greater than or equal to 800 MPa, an elongation A80 which is greater than or equal to 40% and a bright surface finish of the bright annealed type. The invention also relates to a method for the continuous production of said austenitic stainless steel strip.
US08268098B2 Copper alloy having high strength, high electric conductivity and excellent bending workability
The present invention relates to a copper alloy having high strength, high electrical conductivity, and excellent bendability, the copper alloy containing, in terms of mass %, 0.4 to 4.0% of Ni; 0.05 to 1.0% of Si; and, as an element M, one member selected from 0.005 to 0.5% of P, 0.005 to 1.0% of Cr, and 0.005 to 1.0% of Ti, with the remainder being copper and inevitable impurities, in which an atom number ratio M/Si of elements M and Si contained in a precipitate having a size of 50 to 200 nm in a microstructure of the copper alloy is from 0.01 to 10 on average, the atom number ratio being measured by a field emission transmission electron microscope with a magnification of 30,000 and an energy dispersive analyzer. According to the invention, it is possible to provide a copper alloy having high strength, high electrical conductivity, and excellent bendability.
US08268096B2 Colored conversion layers devoid of chrome formed on metal surfaces
A method for producing colored layers on zinc, aluminum, magnesium or alloy surfaces. The surfaces are brought into contact with an aqueous treatment solution which is devoid of chrome, said solution containing, in total, 3-35 g/l persulfate ions and/or peroxodisulfate ions and not more than 10 g/l ammonia or ammonium ions, it has a pH value in the region of between 10-12 and a temperature in the range of between 30-80° C. The surfaces are brought into contact with the treatment solution for a period in the region of 0.5-5 minutes and optionally, they are covered with a coating based on organic polymers. The invention further relates to metal parts treated according to said method.
US08268092B2 Magnetic sheet for radio frequency identification antenna, method of manufacturing the same, and radio frequency identification antenna using the same
Provided are a magnetic sheet for use in a radio frequency identification (RFID) antenna, an RFID antenna including the magnetic sheet, and a method of manufacturing the magnetic sheet, in which the magnetic sheet includes an amorphous alloy selected from the group consisting of Fe—Si—B, Fe—Si—B—Cu—Nb, Fe—Zr—B and Co—Fe—Si—B. The magnetic sheet is made by laminating amorphous alloy ribbons made of an amorphous alloy between magnetic sheet layers formed of alloy powder including at least one amorphous alloy and then compression-molding the amorphous alloy ribbons, to thereby control microcrack of the amorphous alloy ribbons and enhance characteristic of an end-product. The magnetic sheet is also thin, and has an excellent magnetic permeability, and a simple manufacturing process.
US08268088B2 Dishwasher and method for operating a dishwasher
A dishwasher, including: a washing container; at least two spray devices disposed inside the washing container; a circulating pump to deliver liquid to the at least two spray devices; a first drive to drive the circulating pump; a reversing device, wherein, based on a position of the reversing device, the circulating pump delivers the liquid to at least one of the at least two spray devices; and a control device to detect a current position of the reversing device based on an operating parameter assigned to the first drive and to at least one of control and regulate the first drive.
US08268084B2 Liquid injection into gas stream
A liquid injection device (11) for injecting cleaning liquids into an airflow, comprises: an airflow duct (12); a jacket (13) surrounding the airflow duct, in two parts (13a, 13b), axially separable, and having liquid infeed and drain openings (15); at least one nozzle unit (16) having an inlet opening (16a) onto the jacket, and its nozzle outlet opening (16b) into the airflow duct; the parts of the jacket being sealingly juxtaposed for use, and separable for access to said nozzle unit.
US08268083B2 Method and device for treating objects with at least one treatment agent in a household device, said household device, associated packaging and a dosing device
A method for treating objects with at least one treatment agent in a household device includes the step of operating a first part of an identification system to identify data of a second part of the identification system, the data of the second part of the identification system comprising information on a dosing device operable to dose the treatment agent, and the data of the second part of the identification system being associated with a packaging for the dosing device. The method also includes the further step of adapting a treatment of objects by the household device or a dosing of the treatment agent based upon the identified data.
US08268081B2 Platen cleaning method
A method for cleaning a workpiece support that includes using a workpiece that has been coated on its bottom surface with a suitable material is disclosed. This specially coated workpiece is placed on the support, and some time later, it is removed, taking with it particles from the support. In certain embodiments, the workpiece undergoes an ion implantation process to increase its temperature, and to increase the tackiness of the coating on the bottom surface. The material used to coat the bottom can be of variable types, including photoresists, oxides and deposited glasses.
US08268077B2 Upper heater, single crystal production apparatus, and method for producing single crystal
An upper heater for use in the production of a single crystal, the upper heater having electrodes to which a current is supplied and a heat generating section which generates heat by resistance heating are provided, the upper heater being used when a single crystal is produced by a Czochralski method, the upper heater being placed above a graphite heater which is placed so as to surround a crucible containing silicon melt, wherein the heat generating section is ring-shaped and is placed so as to surround the crucible, and has slits formed from the inside and the outside of the heat generating section in a horizontal direction. As a result, the upper heater controls a crystal defect of the single crystal efficiently and improves the oxygen concentration controllability.
US08268073B2 System and method for making cement and cement derived therefrom
Integrated cement production systems and methods implementing the systems are disclosed, where the integrated cement production systems include a burnable fuel supply subsystem, a cement raw material supply subsystem, a kiln subsystem and a cement clinker composition storage subsystem. The burnable fuel supply subsystem is adapted to receive one or a plurality of used and/or unused healthcare materials. The burnable fuel supply subsystem can feed the materials directly into the kiln subsystem, can convert the materials into different form and feed the different form to the kiln subsystem or feed a combination of the materials, different forms and optionally conventional fuels to the kiln subsystem.
US08268072B2 Oil and gas well cement systems using elemental sulfur
A cement composition for cementing an oil or gas well includes Portland cement, water and a sulfur component. The cement composition may be used to cement a well bore by creating a cement slurry including the sulfur component, pumping the slurry into the well bore to a selected location and allowing it to solidify.
US08268070B2 Hybrid pigment composition comprising dyes or pigments and fibrous clay
A hybrid pigment composition and method of forming the hybrid pigment composition is provided. The hybrid pigment composition is formed from a fibrous clay and a dye or pigment. The dye or pigment includes perinones, diphenylmethanes, acridines, xanthenes, triarylmethanes, thiazines, indophenols, indulines, nigrosines, aminoazobenzenes, anilines, monoazos, benzimidazoles, diazos, phthalocyanines, quinacridones, metal complexes, azo/metal complexes, and mixtures thereof.
US08268069B2 Pearlescent pigments
The present invention relates to pearlescent pigments based on glass flakes which are distinguished by the fact that they have the following layer structure: A) optionally a layer of SiO2, B) a high-refractive-index coating have a refractive-index n>1.8 which essentially consists of TiO2, C) a low-refractive-index layer comprising SiO2 and/or Al2O3 and optionally D) an outer protective layer, and to the use thereof in paints, coatings, automobile paints, powder coatings, printing inks, security printing inks, plastics, ceramic materials, glasses, paper, in toners for electrophotographic printing processes, in seed, in greenhouse sheeting and tarpaulins, as absorbers in the laser marking of paper and plastics, as absorbers for the laser welding of plastics, in cosmetic formulations, for the preparation of pigment pastes with water, organic and/or aqueous solvents, for the preparation of pigment compositions and dry preparations.
US08268066B1 Self seal adhesive composition
It has been unexpectedly found that the solvent extracted aromatic cut of heavy vacuum gas oil can be oxidized to produce an adhesive composition that has all the needed attributes of a self seal adhesive for asphalt roofing shingles. This self seal adhesive composition offers numerous benefits and advantages over conventional self seal adhesives for roofing applications. For instance, it does not require any volatile organic solvents and is accordingly environmentally friendly. Additionally, it does not contain any asphalt or polymers and will not phase separate and accordingly offers excellent long term stability.
US08268058B2 High-performance labyrinth type air treatment apparatus
A high-performance labyrinth type air treatment apparatus includes a positively (negatively) charged dust collector mounted in an air passage inside a shell, the positively (negatively) charged dust collector having positively (negatively) charged dust collecting panels arranged in such a manner that a labyrinth-like detoured air path is defined through the positively (negatively) charged dust collector, an air ionization control means having discharge/emitting terminals arranged in the labyrinth-like detoured air path, and an electric fan for causing flowing of air through the positively (negatively) charged dust collector so that negatively (positively) charged heteroparticles carried in currents of air flowing through the labyrinth-like detoured air path are forced, to strike repeatedly against the positively (negatively) charged dust collecting panels and then effectively adhered to the positively (negatively) charged dust collecting panels, achieving extremely high air purification.
US08268053B2 Fluted filter media
Fluted filter media includes filter material having a plurality of flutes formed therein having alternating ends of adjacent flutes closed to force fluid through filter material. A first embodiment of the filter media includes tapered flutes which have the open ends of the flutes larger in cross-section than the closed flutes, wherein the upstream open flutes converge toward the downstream end and the upstream closed end flutes diverge toward the downstream end. A second embodiment includes filter media which is asymmetric formed with dissimilar upstream and downstream flute cross-sections with larger flute openings to the upstream side of the filter. A third embodiment includes filter media with an upstream edge crushed to improve flow at the upstream edge. A fourth embodiment includes filter media with the upstream sealing material recessed from the upstream edge for reducing effects from blockages at the upstream edge of the filter.
US08268045B2 Compressed air producing method and producing plant
A compressed air producing method, in which two or more adsorption columns, in all or part of which a zeolite-series adsorbent is charged, are switched over to purify feed air and the adsorbent charged in at least one adsorption column of said adsorption columns is regenerated in turn with regeneration gas, is characterized by comprising a step of performing, when an adsorption column (R) in a regeneration step transfers to a purification step, the purge of said adsorbent with purified air, and characterized in that the internal pressure of an adsorption column (R) in the purge step is controlled such that a differential pressure thereof from the internal pressure of an adsorption column (P) in the purification step falls within a specified value.
US08268043B2 Modular compact adsorption bed
A modular and compact adsorbent bed structure is disclosed for use in an adsorption-based gas separation plant. The conventional adsorbent bed in a gas separation plant is replaced with a plurality of modular adsorbent bed units connected to make the adsorbent bed structure. Modular adsorbent bed units of this invention provide higher capacity of product per unit volume of adsorbent material (i.e., increased adsorbent utilization) as compared to that obtained from conventional adsorbent beds. The modular design requires lower fabrication costs; is easier to transport; has less maintenance and repair requirements; and is easier to load with adsorbent material.
US08268037B2 Recovery of molybdenum from molybdenum bearing sulfide materials by bioleaching in the presence of iron
The invention relates to a method of recovering molybdenum from a molybdenum bearing sulfide material. The material is contacted with a leaching solution in the presence of iron compounds and mesophilic or thermophilic iron oxidizing microorganisms and subsequently, a leaching process is performed by controlling the molar ratio of dissolved ferric iron to dissolved molybdenum. Preferably, a high amount and molar excess of dissolved iron is used. The presence of high concentrations of ferric iron in bioleach solutions allows iron-oxidizing microorganisms to grow and oxidize iron and bioleach molybdenite at dissolved Mo concentrations as high as 4.4 g/L. Organic metabolites were not required for protecting cells from Mo toxicity. Maximum dissolution rates depend on reactor configuration, with agglomerated material simulating heap leaching of almost 1% Mo/day, but up to 10.2% Mo/day in suspension/stirred reactor configurations, with rate highly dependent on temperature within the range of 25° C. to 40° C. The ultimate extent of Mo removal from the molybdenum bearing sulfide material is 89%. Finally, molybdenum is recovered from a leach residue of the leaching process.
US08268036B2 Process for production of ultra low phosphorous and carbon ferromanganese by using of ferromanganese slag
Disclosed is a method of producing ultra low phosphorus and carbon ferromanganese having 0.1 wt % or less carbon and 0.03 wt % or less phosphorus. The method includes preparing low carbon silicomanganese having low phosphorus content, preparing molten manganese slag, subjecting the molten manganese slag and the low carbon silicomanganese having low phosphorus content to primary mixing and stirring at a ratio of 70˜72:28˜30 in a ladle, thus producing a metal melt and slag, and subjecting the metal melt separated from the above slag and the molten manganese slag identical to that used in the primary mixing and stirring to secondary mixing and stirring, thus producing slag and a metal melt including 91˜93 wt % manganese, 0.60˜0.85 wt % silicon, 0.05˜0.10 wt % carbon and 0.015˜0.02 wt % phosphorus.
US08268031B2 Fabric filter system
The present disclosure relates to a fabric filter system, which may be used for removing particulate matter from a gas, such as a combustion process gas. The filter system includes a fabric filter (3) which is placed in a filter compartment. From the filter, gas flows via a filter plenary space (5) to an outlet duct (7), where the gas exits. A flow control device controls the amount of air exiting through the outlet duct. The flow control device comprises a louver-type damper (17). This provides reliable and efficient control of the gas flow. A collar (21), connecting the plenary space (5) with the outlet duct (7), improves the gas flow into the duct.
US08268030B2 Wind energy use
The invention provides wind energy use. One application provides wind energy use for water harvesting from natural humid air. The method is based on changing thermodynamic state parameters of ambient wind air portions passed through a device comprising convergent-divergent and wing-like components. Those components transform the ambient wind portions into fast and cooled outflowing air portions. A decrease in static pressure and temperature triggers condensation of water-vapor into water-aerosols. Another application of the method provides an effective mechanism for harvesting electrical energy from naturally warm air using renewable wind energy, including the wind inertia, internal heat, and potential energy stored in the air mass in the Earth's gravitational field. The electrical energy harvesting mechanism is also applicable to use of natural renewable energy of streaming water.
US08268029B2 Cyclone dust-collecting apparatus
A cyclone dust-collecting apparatus includes a body unit, a top portion of which is detachably engaged with a cover unit; a cyclone unit disposed inside the body; and a filter unit detachably disposed above the cyclone unit, wherein air flowing into the body unit is guided from the cyclone unit upward to the filter unit, and is discharged downward via the filter unit.
US08268027B2 Meltable fuel gas generation apparatus and methods
Gas generation apparatus and methods are provided, including apparatus and methods for efficient vaporization, and optional burning, of meltable fuels. The apparatus and methods provide controlled generation and combustion of any low melting point dimensionally stable combustible meltable fuel. This is preferably accomplished by first converting the solid or semi solid meltable fuel material into a liquid state, then into vapor, and finally mixing with an air source or other oxidizer before combustion.
US08268024B2 Pre-reformer with extended surface and method
Apparatus, system, and method for producing syngas. The apparatus can include a first reformer, which can include a radiant section having a reformer tube disposed therein. The reformer tube can be at least partially filled with a first catalyst. The first reformer can also include a transition section coupled to the radiant section, a convective section coupled to the transition section, and a plurality of pre-reformer tubes disposed in the transition section. The plurality of pre-reformer tubes can be filled with a second catalyst and fluidly coupled to the reformer tube via a line external to the plurality of pre-reformer tubes. At least one of the plurality of pre-reformer tubes can have at least one extended surface disposed thereon. The second reformer can be coupled to the reformer tube and to an oxidant source. The third reformer can be coupled to the second reformer and to the reformer tube.
US08268023B2 Water gas shift reactor system for integrated gasification combined cycle power generation systems
The present application thus provides an integrated gasification combined cycle system. The integrated gasification combined cycle system may include a water gas shift reactor system and a heat recovery steam generator. The water gas shift reactor system may include a recirculation system with a recirculation heat exchanger to heat a flow of syngas. The heat recovery steam generator may include a diverted water flow in communication with the recirculation heat exchanger.
US08268020B2 Method for manufacturing battery case and method for manufacturing hermetic battery
A battery case is formed by drawing a metallic plate thin to form a cylindrical body 10 having a closed end and cutting away part of the cylindrical body 10 at an opening 11 thereof in the direction perpendicular to an axis of the cylindrical body 10. The cutting of the cylindrical body 10 is carried out by moving a second blade 30 arranged outside the cylindrical body 10 relatively toward the axis of the cylindrical body with a first blade kept abutting the inner circumference of the cylindrical body 10. As a result, an inward burr 13 extending in the direction perpendicular to the side face of the cylindrical body 10 is formed on a cut surface 12 of the cylindrical body 10, but the burr 13 is prevented from entering the battery case.
US08268017B2 Method for stabilizing leuco-type colorant
Provided are a method of stabilizing a leuco dye storable as a liquid for a long time, a method of reducing nonspecific color development thereof at a time of a color development reaction, and a stable liquid reagent composition using the methods. The inventors of the present invention found that coexistence of the leuco dye with a specific reducing agent resulted in suppression of self color development and its remarkably improved stability in a solution, and that when a color development reaction of the leuco dye with hydrogen peroxide was performed, coexistence of the leuco dye, in a reaction solution, with another dye which had an absorption spectrum not influencing a measurement wavelength of the leuco dye and did not react with hydrogen peroxide suppressed nonspecific color development and lowered a reagent blank value, which was applied to an analytical reagent.
US08268015B2 Method for decolorizing keratin-containing fibers
Use of a composition comprising hydrogen peroxide in a cosmetic vehicle allows gentle discoloring of permanently colored, keratinous fibers which have been colored with a specific coloring composition. The coloring composition used for coloring the fibers comprises, in a cosmetic vehicle, a combination of at least one CH-acidic compound with at least one reactive carbonyl compound. The discoloring composition contains preferably between 0% and 15% by weight of hydrogen peroxide and has the effect, in particular in a working time of 5 to 20 minutes even without the use of organic peroxo compounds and in the absence of inorganic persalts, of effective color removal with simultaneous gentle treatment of the fibers.
US08268014B2 Hair dyeing composition
The invention relates to hair dyeing composition comprising (a) a dye of formula (1); (b) ant least one dye selected from the compounds of formulae (2); (3) and (4); wherein D is the radical of a diazo component of the formula (2a); (2b); (2c); (2d); (2f); (2g) or (2h). The invention also relates to the dyeing methods for dyeing keratinous fibers comprising such dyeing composition.
US08268011B2 Prosthetic limb attachment
The present invention provides an apparatus (1) for attaching a prosthetic limb to the bone of a patient, the apparatus comprising a proximal component (2) to mount to a bone implant, a distal component (3) to mount to a prosthetic limb, and a coupling body (4, 5) coupling together the proximal and distal components (2,3) with freedom to articulate when, in use, a bending and/or torsional force is applied to the prosthetic limb, only when the force exceeds a threshold level, whereby the force may be accommodated by articulation within the attachment apparatus (1). The attachment apparatus (1) thus functions as a fail-safe articulation mechanism protecting the bone of the patient.
US08268009B2 Mechanical extension implants for short bowel syndrome
A bowel extension device implantable into a body for treatment of short bowel syndrome. The bowel extension device comprises a housing and a displaceable member coupled to the housing. The bowel extension device is configured to apply a tensile force sufficient to promote bowel growth without causing damage to the bowel. In some embodiments, the bowel extension device can be completely contained with the body.
US08268008B2 Osteoimplants and methods for their manufacture
An osteoimplant is made up of a coherent aggregate of elongate bone particles.
US08268002B2 Slide-on end cap for a vertebral implant
An implant for insertion between adjacent vertebral members, comprising an implant body with a base section having positioning teeth, and an end cap adapted for positioning at a selected point on the base section via adjustment of an approach direction. The end cap comprises a seating surface adapted to contact the base section when positioned on the implant body, an end cap angulation, and positioning passages adapted to receive the positioning teeth. The implant may further comprise a locking mechanism adapted to lockingly engage the end cap and base section and prevent axial movement of the end cap. The positioning passages and positioning teeth are complementarily configured to facilitate slideably positioning the end cap on the base section. The implant body and end cap combination will impart end cap angulation to an adjacent vertebral body at the selected point when the implant is positioned in the intervertebral space.
US08268001B2 Foldable orthopedic implant
An orthopedic implant such as a spinal implant is made from a elastic biocompatible material (e.g. polyetheretherketone or PEEK) to provide a hinge that allows portions of the orthopedic implant to be folded into a closed position and to inherently deploy into an open position upon release of a folding bias. Hence, the orthopedic implant can accommodate a minimally invasive surgical procedure since the orthopedic implant can be introduced into the disc space in the closed position through a small-diameter insertion tube and then deploy to a particular height once the implant is released from the insertion tube (i.e. from release of the folding bias). The present implant is preferably, but not necessarily, made by injection molded PEEK. In this manner, the implant components are molded in the open position to cause the open position to be its innate position or form, thus allowing the implant to self-deploy (self-expand) when it is released from the folding bias.
US08267998B2 Operating instrument for a height-adjustable spinal implant
A height-adjustable implant for insertion between vertebrae, includes first and second sleeve parts which are rotationally fixed in coaxial alignment and interconnected in an axially displaceable manner. The first sleeve part has an internal thread. A nut is positioned coaxially in an inner space surrounded by the sleeve parts and is fixed to the second sleeve part so that it can rotate but is axially fixed. The nut has an external thread which engages in the internal thread of the first sleeve part. A toothed ring extends coaxially with the central longitudinal axis of the sleeve parts and is located on the nut. The second sleeve part has a radial access opening in the vicinity of the toothed ring. An operating instrument for activating the implant adjustment includes a handgrip and a shaft extending through the handgrip, a rotary grip carried on one end and another end carrying a toothed wheel for rotational actuation of the nut in the interior space of the implant.
US08267995B2 Method and intra sclera implant for treatment of glaucoma and presbyopia
An intra scleral implant and method of implantation for use in the treatment of intraocular pressure and presbyopia. The implant features a body portion and protrusions from the body portion to anchor the device in a cavity formed in the scleral wall of the eye. Optionally a drug delivery function is provided to allow long term communication of drugs to tissue surrounding the implant.
US08267994B2 Mono cusped patch and valved conduit for repairing cardiac outflow tract
A mono cusped patch for repairing cardiac outflow tract is disclosed in the present invention, which comprises an inner patch, an external supporting patch and a leaflet. An approximate semicircular slit is provided on the inner patch. The inferior border of the leaflet is set between the inner patch and the external supporting patch along the slit. The inner patch, the inferior border of the leaflet and the external supporting patch are stitched together along the slit edge of the inner patch with sutures. The inferior border of the leaflet is fixed between the inner patch and the external supporting patch. According to this special stitching structure, the present invention also provides a valved conduit of good performance. The leaflets of mono cusped patch and valved conduit are sutured with the inner patch/conduit and external supporting patch/conduit to repair cardiac outflow tract, and the inferior border of leaflet is provided between the inner patch/conduit and external supporting patch/conduit, so that the present invention avoids fixing leaflet only with sutures, makes leaflets more durable and improves postoperative longtime treatment effect of patients significantly.
US08267992B2 Self-buffering medical implants
A medical implant includes a bioerodible portion that includes a bioerodible polymer and a bioerodible metal. The bioerodible polymer matrix degrades under physiological conditions to form acidic degradation products. The bioerodible metal degrades under physiological conditions to form basic degradation products. The acidic degradation products and the basic degradation products buffer at least a portion of the medical implant. In one aspect, the bioerodible portion includes a bioerodible polymer matrix and a bioerodible metal within the bioerodible polymer matrix. In another aspect, the medical implant can include a body, a plurality of discrete deposits of the bioerodible polymer on the body, and a plurality of discrete deposits of the bioerodible metal on the body.
US08267991B2 Intraluminar perforated radially expandable drug delivery prosthesis and a method for the production thereof
A radially expandable prosthesis for implantation in a lumen comprises a tubular wall having an inner surface and an outer surface. The tubular wall is provided with cuts to form solid struts which have a thickness and which enables the prosthesis to expand. The solid struts have reservoirs made therethrough in the form of perforating holes for containing a therapeutic agent. The perforating holes each have an inner opening and an outer opening of substantially the same size. The prosthesis, including said perforating holes, has a smooth electrochemically polished surface.
US08267990B2 Controlled degradation of stents
Stents fabricated from hydrolytically degradable polymers with accelerated degradation rates and methods of fabricating stents with accelerated degradation rates are disclosed.
US08267985B2 System and method for delivering and deploying an occluding device within a vessel
A system and method for deploying an occluding device that can be used to remodel an aneurysm within the vessel by, for example, neck reconstruction or balloon remodeling. The system comprises an introducer sheath and an assembly for carrying the occluding device. The assembly includes an elongated flexible member having an occluding device retaining member for receiving a first end of the occluding device, a proximally positioned retaining member for engaging a second end of the occluding device and a support surrounding a portion of the elongated flexible member over which the occluding device can be positioned.
US08267980B2 Spinal stabilizing system
A spinal stabilizing system includes a collar having a tubular sidewall with an interior surface and an exterior surface, the interior surface at least partially bounding a longitudinal passage extending therethrough. A shoulder radially inwardly projects from a second end of the sidewall so as to at last partially encircle the longitudinal passage. A pair of spaced apart channels transversely extend through the sidewall at the first end thereof. The system further includes a screw having a threaded portion and an enlarged head mounted on the end thereof, the head of the screw resting against the shoulder of the collar so that the head can pivot on the shoulder, a locking slot being formed on the head of the screw. A pin is secured to the collar and projects into the locking slot on the head of the screw such rotation of the collar facilitates rotation of the screw.
US08267979B2 Load-sharing bone anchor having a deflectable post and axial spring and method for dynamic stabilization of the spine
A dynamic spinal stabilization component which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The component may be integrated in a bone anchor for implantation in a bone of the spine. The component and bone anchor provide load sharing while preserving range of motion and reducing stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The dynamic spinal stabilization component includes a deflectable post connected by a ball-joint to a threaded anchor. Deflection of the deflectable post is controlled by an axially compressible spring. The force/deflection properties of the dynamic bone anchor may be adapted to the anatomy and functional requirements of the patient. The dynamic spinal stabilization component may be used as a component of a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion.
US08267972B1 Bone plate
A bone plate assembly and method of use comprising a head; a shaft; an upper surface; a lower surface having a fixed plane intended to be adjacent to the patient's bone when the plate is in use; a first hole positioned in the head wherein the first hole passes through the upper and lower surfaces and is configured to fix a shaft of a first bone anchor along a first axis; a second hole positioned on the anterior portion of the upper surface of the head wherein the second hole passes through the upper and lower surfaces and is configured to fix a shaft of a second bone anchor along a second axis; and a third hole positioned in the posterior side of the head wherein the third hole passes through the upper and lower surfaces and is configured to fix a shaft of a third bone anchor along a third axis, wherein the first axis, the second axis and the third axis do not intersect in the bone when the plate is in use.
US08267970B2 Laminar hook spring
Various devices and methods are provided for spinal augmentation. In particular, the device can includes a connector element having a superior portion and an inferior portion that is adapted to support adjacent superior and inferior vertebrae and a first superior seating member and a second superior seating member associated with the connector element. The first seating member can be adapted to receive a portion of a lamina of the superior vertebra and the second seating member can be adapted to receive a portion of the lamina of the inferior vertebra. The device can have a variety of configurations, including the connector element and the first and second seating members being unitary and the first and second seating members being separately secured to the connector element.
US08267960B2 Device and method for treating central nervous system pathology
The present invention relates generally to a device and method for treating tissues of the central nervous system and more particularly, but not exclusively, to a device and method for treating the brain tissue.
US08267955B2 Metallic coils enlaced with fibers for embolization of a body cavity
A vaso-occlusive device is provided for reducing blood flow in a patient. The device can include a coil, a stretch resistant member, and a plurality of fibers. The coil can define a lumen and be sized for insertion to a point of use in a vascular network of the patient. The stretch resistant member can have a first end fixedly attached to the first end of the coil. Further, the plurality of fibers can be configured with each of the fibers in direct contact with the stretch resistant member.
US08267954B2 Vascular filter with sensing capability
An implantable vessel filter having an integrated sensing capability for monitoring the condition of the vessel filter. In one variation, the vessel filter comprises a plurality of legs that would themselves perform as a sensor device for detecting distention, which would indicate the presence of a clot or thrombus therein. A passive electrical circuit may be implemented on the vessel filter to receive electromagnetic energy and transmit signals indicative of the condition of the implanted vessel filter. In another variation, a miniaturized sensor is adapted for measuring the strain and/or other physical parameters of the filter legs.
US08267952B2 Bladeless optical obturator
The invention is directed to a bladeless trocar and obturator combination configured to separate body tissue. In one aspect, the obturator of the invention includes a rigid shaft extending along an axis between a proximal end and a closed, tapered distal end. The bladeless, closed and tapered tip is adapted to penetrate tissue. The shaft is sized and configured to receive an optical instrument having a distal end to receive an image of the body tissue. The shaft includes an ledge on the inner surface to provide proper positioning of the distal end of the optical instrument. The tapered configuration facilitates separation of different layers of the body tissue and provides proper alignment of the tip between the layers.
US08267941B2 Electrical depilator
An electrical depilator includes a main body (1) and a head (2) mounted on the main body. The head includes a hair-plucking assembly (20) mounted on a frame (7), and with a shell (16) covering thereon. The hair-plucking assembly includes a plurality of discs (11) and discs carriers (10), a transmission gear (9), and a bearing cover being fitted over an arcuate shaft (5) and rotating in sync. Each discs carrier bears one disc. Each disc has a substantially circular and continuous circumference (115), and an undulating surface (112). Upper portions (110) and lower portions (111) for grasping and removing hair are radially and alternately arrayed to configurate such undulating surface of the disc. The electrical depilator can steadily and smoothly removing hair at a speed increased at least 3 times.
US08267939B2 Tool for implanting expandable intervertebral implant
An expandable intervertebral implant and tool for use in implanting same are disclosed. The tool is useful in retaining the implant in a non-expanded state throughout insert of the implant between adjacent vertebral bodies. Among other elements, the tool includes a rod, a sleeve placed over the rod, and a locking knob attached to the rod and the sleeve to fix them with respect to each other. This construct preferably aids in preventing movement of the various components of the implant, including first and second members and first and second wedges. A method of attaching inserting the implant through the use of the tool and attaching the tool to the implant are also disclosed.
US08267938B2 Method and apparatus for determining acetabular component positioning
An instrument for establishing orientation of a pelvic prosthesis comprises a tri-pod having an angularly adjustable guide rod on it. The tips of the legs define a plane, and the guide rod is set by the surgeon to a defined orientation with respect to this plane on the basis of preoperative studies. In use, two of the legs of the instrument are positioned by the surgeon at defined anatomical locations on the pelvis (e.g., a point in the region of the posterior/inferior acetabulum and a point on the anterior superior iliac spine). The third leg then lands on the pelvis at a point determined by the position of the first two points, as well as by the separations between the third leg and the other two legs. The separations are adjustable, but are preferably fixed percentages of the separation between the first and second legs. The position of the guide rod then defines with respect to the actual pelvis the direction for insertion of a prosthesis.
US08267936B2 Insulating mechanically-interfaced adhesive for electrosurgical forceps
An electrosurgical forceps includes a shaft having a pair of jaw members at a distal end movable about a pivot from a first position disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members are closer to one another for grasping tissue. One or both of the jaw members are adapted to connect to a source of electrical energy such that the jaw members are capable of conducting electrical energy to tissue held therebetween. An flexible insulating boot is disposed on at least a portion of an exterior surface of one or both jaw members and about the pivot. An adhesive is included and is operably disposed between at least one jaw member and the flexible insulating boot for securing the flexible insulating boot to the jaw member.
US08267934B2 Electrosurgical tool
An electrosurgical tool for cauterizing or ablating targeted tissue, which tool includes a conductive outer shaft which defines a return or reference electrode, and a conductive inner tube disposed within the outer shaft. The inner tube defines both a suction pathway for removing fluid and/or surgical debris from the surgical site through the distal end of the tool, and a pathway for delivering electrical energy to an active electrode secured to the distal end of the suction tube.
US08267930B2 Apparatus and method for cooling and moving ablation elements
A medical device comprising a cell including an ablation element and a carrier configured to receive at least a portion of said ablation element is disclosed. The medical device further comprises a tube enclosing the cell. At least a portion of the tube includes a membrane and the tube includes at least one hole proximate the ablation element for facilitating fluid flow. The medical device further comprises a fluid inlet for providing fluid to the interior of the tube. A method of using the medical device is also disclosed.
US08267929B2 Method and system for programming and controlling an electrosurgical generator system
An electrosurgical generator system includes an electrical generator having an RF stage for outputting electrical energy having at least one waveform for performing an electrosurgical procedure. The system further includes at least one control module executable on at least one processor which controls at least one parameter of the outputted electrical energy and a configuration controller operably associated with the electrical generator which generates configuration data to configure the at least one control module to provide at least one modality of control of the outputted electrical energy based on the configuration data.
US08267928B2 System and method for closed loop monitoring of monopolar electrosurgical apparatus
An electrosurgical system is disclosed comprising a generator configured to electrosurgical coagulation waveforms. The generator includes a closed loop control system for controlling the electrosurgical coagulation waveforms. The closed loop control system includes a sensor configured to sense a tissue property and/or an energy property and to transmit the tissue property and/or the energy property as one or more sensor signals having an amplitude. The control system also includes a gain controller configured to process the at least one sensor signal to reduce the amplitude of the sensor signals and to obtain a signal to noise ratio of the at sensor signals within a predetermine range. A microprocessor coupled to the generator and is configured to adjust the electrosurgical coagulation waveforms as a function of the sensor signals.
US08267927B2 Advanced ablation planning
In planning an ablation procedure, a planned target volume (PTV) is imported, which is typically selected by a doctor but may be computer-identified. An ablation solution comprising a plurality of ablation volumes is generated or selected using a lookup table. Ablations sharing a common axis along a line of insertion are grouped into blocks. Alternatively, the PTV is enveloped in a sphere, and a pre-computed ablation solution (e.g., a 6- or 14-sphere solution) is identified to cover the PTV sphere. Optionally, a mathematical algorithm is executed to increase an axis through the ablation spheres to generate ellipsoidal ablation volumes that envelop the PTV.
US08267926B2 Assessment of electrode coupling for tissue ablation
An electrode catheter and a method for assessing electrode-tissue contact and coupling are disclosed. An exemplary electrode catheter comprises an electrode adapted to apply electrical energy. A measurement circuit is adapted to measure impedance between the electrode and ground as the electrode approaches a target tissue. A processor determines a contact and coupling condition for the target tissue based at least in part on reactance of the impedance measured by the measurement circuit. In another exemplary embodiment, the electrode catheter determines the contact and coupling condition based at least in part on a phase angle of the impedance.
US08267925B2 Optical system for ophthalmic surgical laser
An ophthalmic laser system includes a laser source, to generate a pulsed laser beam, an XY scanner, to receive the pulsed laser beam, and to output an XY-scanning beam, scanned in two directions essentially transverse to an optical axis, and a multi-functional Z scanner, to receive the XY-scanning beam, to output an XYZ-scanning beam, having a numerical aperture NA and a focal spot in a target region, and to modify the numerical aperture NA essentially independently from scanning a Z focal depth of the focal spot along the optical axis.
US08267917B2 Percutaneously retrievable stent assembly with fluid draining capability
The present invention provides a stent assembly for expanding a bodily passage in a patient and draining a fluid therefrom. The assembly comprises at least one expandable stent and an elongated carrier for delivery or retrieval of the stent. The stent is circumferentially attached to a distal end of the carrier. The carrier defines at least two concentric lumens therethrough, a drainage lumen in fluid communication with the bodily passage for drainage of the fluid and an inflation lumen in fluid communication with the expandable stent. The invention also provides a method of expanding a bodily passage in a patient and draining a fluid therefrom. The method comprises providing a stent assembly of the present invention; inserting a guidewire into the bodily passage through the drainage lumen of the carrier; advancing the assembly along the guidewire until the assembly reaches a desired location; expanding the stent; and draining the fluid through drainage lumen of the carrier.
US08267915B2 Dual well port device
A port for implantation within a body, comprises a housing having proximal and distal surfaces and a side surface wherein, the proximal surface faces outward toward the skin, the distal surface faces inward away from the skin and the side surface extends between the proximal and distal surfaces. A first well formed within the housing includes a first opening in the proximal surface and a second well formed in the housing adjacent to the first well has a second opening formed in the proximal surface. First and second outlet openings formed on the side surface of the port are in fluid communication with the first and second wells, respectively, and are separated from one another by a distance substantially equal to a distance separating lumens of a dual lumen catheter to which the port is to be connected.
US08267914B1 Method and apparatus for AC electrospray
The present invention provides an electrospray device using a high frequency alternating current (AC) above 10 kHz to generate fine micron sized drops. The apparatus generally functions by applying a high frequency alternating current electric field across one or more micro-needles and one or more conducting elements. The present invention may be used to generate aerosol drops for respiratory drug delivery or as a microencapsulation technique for the encapsulation of drugs, DNA, protein, osteogenic or dermatological growth factors, bacteria, viruses, immobilized enzyme receptors and fluorescent particles for controlled release drug delivery, tissue or bone engineering, clinical or environmental field testing and as biosensors for clinical or drug monitoring. In addition, the present invention may be used to synthesize biodegradable fibers as bioscaffolds for tissue engineering, surgical sutures or medical gauze that enhance blood coagulation, and further may be encapsulated by other agents.
US08267912B2 Infusion bag with needleless access port
An infusion bag according to one exemplary embodiment includes a body having an interior space for holding a fluid. The interior space is defined by a pair of side walls and an inner wall and an opposite bottom wall. The inner wall extends across the body from one side wall to the other side wall such that a first angle α1 is formed between a first end of the inner wall and one side wall and a second angle α2 is formed between a second end of the inner wall and the other side wall. The first angle is different from the second angle. The bag also includes a needleless port that is in fluid communication with the interior and is configured to sealingly mate with an external device. The needleless port is disposed in an upper corner of the body.
US08267910B2 Absorbing article comprising an absorbing structure comprising a deformation layer
An absorbing article, in particular an absorbing structure has at least one layer that can be used with advantage as a surface layer or in combination with a surface layer. The aforementioned layer has deformable fibers which are deformed and shrink when they become wet. The aforementioned layer thus constitutes a deformation layer and has at least one distinct admission passage. The admission passage is deformed and dilated when it becomes wet. In addition to improved admission in conjunction with repeated wetting, the article also offers a solution to the problem of feces handling in combination with repeated wetting.
US08267909B2 Canister having fluid flow control
A canister for use with a medical suction or aspiration device has a first fluid chamber and a second fluid chamber. The first fluid chamber has an inlet. The second fluid chamber has an outlet port. A splash baffle is disposed between the first fluid chamber and the second fluid chamber. The splash baffle has an aperture formed therethrough to allow for fluid flow from the first fluid chamber to the second fluid chamber. An absorbent valve having voids is disposed within the second fluid chamber and engages a portion of the outlet port. The absorbent valve restricting fluid permeability upon contact with fluid from the first fluid chamber to restrict fluid flow through the outlet port.
US08267908B2 Delivery tube, system, and method for storing liquid from a tissue site
An apparatus, system, and method for storing liquid from a tissue site are presented. The apparatus includes a delivery tube that may have at least one lumen. The delivery tube may be operable to transmit reduced pressure to the tissue site and to receive liquid from the tissue site. The apparatus may also include an absorbent material disposed in the at least one lumen. The absorbent material may be operable to absorb the liquid from the tissue site. The delivery tube may be formed with a number of recesses.
US08267899B2 Injection device
A medication dispensing device with a housing and a member wherein the member is moveable in a distal direction is useful in delivering medication to a patient. A fluid container can be used with the device and often has a moveable piston at one end and an outlet at the other. The member receives a force from a user and drives the piston in the distal direction to expel medication. A intermediate system is disposed between the member and the piston including a gear set that has a pinion in meshed engagement with a rack. The system allows the member to move a greater distance than the piston moves thereby increasing the force on the piston.
US08267898B2 Trocar seal system
A seal assembly for reception of an elongated surgical instrument is provided which includes a body having at least one opening configured and dimensioned to permit entry of an elongated surgical instrument and defining a central longitudinal axis; a seal member formed of a resilient material and defining an aperture therein, the aperture being configured and dimensioned such that insertion of the surgical instrument into the aperture causes the resilient material defining the aperture to resiliently contact the outer surface of the surgical instrument in a substantially fluid tight manner; and a fabric layer juxtaposed relative to the resilient material. A coating may be applied to the seal member to reduce friction between the seal member and surgical instrumentation inserted therein. The coating is preferably a hydrocyclosiloxane membrane prepared by plasma polymerization process.
US08267895B2 Needle guide system
A needle guide system comprising a needle guide including at least one wall defining an internal cavity and an outside of the needle guide. A lock is connected to the needle guide. The lock is movable between a first and a second position. A needle is disposed in the internal cavity of the needle guide, the needle having a long axis and a tip. The needle is movable along the long axis with respect to the needle guide when the lock is in the first position and the needle is locked to the needle guide and the tip extends beyond the wall of the needle guide when the lock is in the second position. Visual indicia on the lock may indicate whether the lock is in the first or the second position.
US08267891B2 Gilled phacoemulsification irrigation sleeve
A phacoemulsification irrigation sleeve includes an elongated, resilient, tubular body section configured to surround a portion of a shaft of a phacoemulsification needle, the tubular body section having a distal end and a proximal end, and an inner surface and an outer surface. An enlarged section formed on the proximal end of the tubular body portion surrounds a hub of the phacoemulsification needle and connects the irrigation sleeve to a phacoemulsification handpiece. The irrigation sleeve further comprises at least one slitted irrigation port formed adjacent to the distal end of the body section and configured to splay in response to a drop in pressure between the inner surface and the outer surface.
US08267890B2 Intradermal delivery device with contoured skin engaging surface geometry
A medication delivery device, particularly an intradermal delivery device, having a needle cannula, with a sharpened distal end having a forward tip, and a limiter disposed about the needle cannula. The limiter has a distal end defining a skin engaging surface which is disposed transversely to, and at least partially about, the needle cannula. The skin engaging surface is generally non-flat with generally coplanar portions, and a recess being defined in the skin engaging surface which defines a void in or adjacent to the coplanar portions into which portions of a patient's skin can be deformed into when the skin engaging surface is pressed against the patient's skin. The forward tip of the needle cannula is spaced apart from a plane defined by the coplanar portions a distance ranging from about 0.5 mm to 3.0 mm such that the skin engaging surface limits penetration of the forward tip of the needle cannula to the dermis layer of the patient's skin.
US08267889B2 Low-profile microneedle array applicator
An applicator (100) used to apply microneedle arrays (10) to a mammal. In particular, an application device for applying a microneedle device (120) to a skin surface comprising a flexible sheet (110) having a raised central area (115) attached to the microneedle device and a supporting member at or near the periphery of the flexible sheet, wherein the flexible sheet is configured such that it will undergo a stepwise motion in the direction orthogonal to the major plane of the sheet.
US08267888B2 Bioerodible self-deployable intragastric implants
Described herein are bioerodible, biodegradable, or digestible self-deploying intragastric implants that may be swallowed. Once swallowed, the implants undergo self-expansion in the stomach and apply a suitable pressure against the stomach wall to provide a feeling of satiety to the individual. The implants then dissolve or are disassembled perhaps using gastric liquids and pass out of the stomach. Methods of using the devices, perhaps for an individual participating in a dietary control regimen, are described.
US08267887B2 Treating heart tissue
Some embodiments of a system or method for treating heart tissue can include a catheter device that provides a user with the ability to perform a number of heart treatment tasks (before, during, and after a cardiac surgery or a percutaneous coronary intervention). In particular embodiments, the catheter device can be used to (i) precondition heart muscle tissue before the heart is isolated from the circulatory system, (ii) deliver cardioplegia into the coronary sinus during the cardiac surgery when the heart is isolated from the circulatory system, and (iii) control the blood flow through the heart after the heart is reconnected with the circulatory system. In some embodiments, the catheter device can perform some or all of: (i) intermittently occluding the coronary sinus, (ii) delivering a treatment fluid into the coronary sinus, and (iii) monitoring a flow rate of blood passing from the coronary sinus to the right atrium.
US08267885B2 Methods and apparatus for delivering peritoneal dialysis (PD) solution with a peristaltic pump
In one aspect, the invention provides methods and apparatus for delivering peritoneal dialysis (PD) solution (or other fluids), from a supply to a patient. A first pump, in fluid coupling with the supply, delivers PD solution from the supply to a “mesne” (or intermediate) measuring element, and generates signals indicative of a volume of that delivered PD solution. The mesne measuring element, in fluid coupling with the first pump, generates signals indicative of a volume of PD solution received from that pump. A second pump, fluidly coupled to the mesne measuring element, routes PD solution from the mesne measuring element for delivery to the patient.
US08267879B2 Spacer element for prosthetic and orthotic devices
A spacer element for use in an orthopedic or prosthetic device includes an apertured fabric layer having first and second fabric layers. A discrete and continuous web-like frictional layer is laminated onto the first fabric layer and has greater frictional properties than the fabric layer. The frictional layer has a plurality of apertures arranged in a pattern in direct correspondence to a pattern of the first surface layer apertures. A compressible material layer has opposed first and second surfaces, wherein the first surface is secured to the second surface layer. The compressible material layer has a first compression molded region with reduced thickness and increased density relative to a second region of the compressible material having a predetermined thickness.
US08267877B2 Cervical immobilization collar with arterial cooling elements
A kit and method for cooling the carotid arteries includes cervical immobilization collar includes a substantially annular support structure having an extended axial length, at least two cheek support structures having an extended vertical length, and an anterior opening that may be covered with a door. The door has a body-facing surface on which a pressure member may be secured and an outward-facing surface. The kit and method also includes a cooling element that may be disposed within the anterior opening and can be secured to the substantially annular support structure by placing the cooling element between the anterior portion of a patient's neck and the pressure member located on the door.
US08267871B2 Guidewire mounted balloon modulation device and methods of use
An apparatus for modulating the pressure of a fluid such as a gas within the expandable portion of a guide wire catheter. A preferred embodiment apparatus features a mechanism for controllably gripping and releasing the open, proximal end of a tubular guide wire, a mechanism for introducing a fluid to a desired pressure and volume into the expandable portion of the tubular guide wire through the open end, and, while maintaining the pressure and volume of fluid in the tubular guide wire, a mechanism for introducing a sealing member into the open end of the tubular guide wire to seal the fluid in the tubular guide wire. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the apparatus also features a deflation tool for piercing the seal and letting the fluid out. Using this apparatus, the tubular guide wire can be re-sealed and re-opened as necessary.
US08267863B2 Procedure and system for monitoring a physiological parameter within an internal organ of a living body
A system and surgical procedure for monitoring physiological parameters within an internal organ of a living body. The procedure entails making a first incision to expose the organ and a second incision through an external wall of the organ and into an internal cavity. A sensing unit is placed in the second incision such that a proximal end thereof remains outside the organ. The unit includes a sensing device having a sensing element for sensing the physiological parameter within the organ, and an anchor to which the sensing device is secured. The unit occludes the second incision and a distal end of the unit does not extend more than one centimeter into the cavity. The anchor is then secured to the wall of the organ, after which the first incision is closed and a readout device telemetrically communicates with the sensing device to obtain a reading of the physiological parameter.
US08267861B2 Disposable mouth props
An improved dental prop that is formed of a slim, cylindrical configuration for bilateral access with voided areas on either end for the purpose of aiding in the comfort of the patient by allowing the patient's jaw to relax during lengthy dental procedures, while effectively articulating the mouth in an open position. The prop contains a safety line eyelet, perpendicular to the center of the cylindrical body, thereby allowing a dentist an extra precautionary step toward the safety of the patient in the case of ingestion or aspiration.
US08267859B2 Spreader insert for a retractor system
A spreader insert for use with a surgical retractor is provided. The spreader insert includes a circular head with two or more downwardly extending blades. One end of each blade of the insert is rotatably fastened to the head of the insert, such that each blade can be tilted inwardly or extended outwardly from a central axis of the device. Suitable fasteners are provided to rotate the blades from a closed position in which the distal ends of the blades are almost touching each other in order to improve ease of introduction into the surgical field. In an open position, the blades rotate outwardly to hold body tissue in place. Alternatively, the entire spreader insert is machined from a hardenable steel tube, the blades of which are formed so that, when released, they spring outwardly to an open position.
US08267857B2 Expandable port for accessing a bodily opening
Medical systems, devices and methods are provided for accessing a bodily opening. One embodiment of a medical device generally includes a flexible sheath and an expandable member. The flexible sheath has a length suitable for forming the pathway along a longitudinal axis. The expandable member is connected to a distal portion of a sheath. The expandable member is operable between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. The expandable member includes a plurality of longitudinally extending struts connected together by a wire frame. The plurality of struts move radially and circumferentially relative to one another between collapsed and expanded configurations.
US08267855B2 Medical instruments
An illuminated medical instrument comprises an insertion portion (1) for insertion into a body opening and defining an elongate passageway (2), the passageway extending along a longitudinal axis (3) and having a proximal end (4) and a distal end (5). An obturator (19) is fitted into the passageway (2). A light emitting structure (7) has a distal end arranged to direct light from the insertion portion (1) into the body opening. The obturator (19) is movable in the passageway (2) between a first position within the passageway and a second position proximal of the first position and is constructed and arranged so that when in its first position it substantially covers in the direction of the longitudinal axis the distal end of the light emitting structure (7).
US08267854B2 Endoscope system
An endoscope system includes a camera for picking up an image inside a body cavity, a camera side magnet connected to the camera and a fixing magnet, for fixing the camera inside the body cavity by holding an abdominal wall from different surfaces of the abdominal wall, and a second CCU for controlling the camera.
US08267853B2 System and method for overlaying ultrasound imagery on a laparoscopic camera display
The present disclosure relates to a system for overlaying ultrasound imagery on a laparoscopic camera display. The system may include a laparoscope configured to capture a laparoscopic image of a surgical field and a laparoscopic ultrasound probe configured to capture an ultrasonic image of a structure in the surgical field. The system may further include a tracking system configured to detect a position and orientation of the laparoscope and a position and orientation of the laparoscopic ultrasound probe. The system may further include data associated with the laparoscope wherein the data indicates a distortion in the laparoscopic image. The system may further include a computer configured to receive the laparoscopic image, the ultrasonic image and the distortion data associated with the laparoscope. The computer may be configured to position and orient the ultrasonic image relative to the laparoscopic image, adjust the ultrasonic image based upon the distortion data, combine the adjusted ultrasonic image with the laparoscopic image, and output the combined images.
US08267852B2 Heart wall tension reduction apparatus and method
Devices and methods for treatment of a failing heart by reducing the heart wall stress. The device can be one which reduces wall stress throughout the cardiac cycle or only a portion of the cardiac cycle.
US08267851B1 Method and apparatus for electrically generating signal for inducing lucid dreaming
A lucid dream is induced in a subject. A brain state entrainment signal is generated in a circuit. A transducer applies a waveform of a kind sufficient to cause a lucid dream in the brain based on the brain state entrainment signal. The brain state entrainment signal modulates a carrier wave of a higher frequency than the entrainment frequency. The waveform is first applied to the subject and thereafter removed to attempt a lucid dream. The waveform can be electrical, light, sound or magnetic waveforms.
US08267846B2 Exercise wheel
An exercise wheel is provided. The exercise wheel includes a wheel, a first support bar, and a second support bar, wherein a support portion is formed inside the wheel, and the support portion includes a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; an end of the first support bar is connected to the support portion, and the other end vertically extends outwardly in a direction away from the first surface; the second support bar and the first support bar are symmetrical about a center of the wheel, an end of the second bar is connected to the support portion, and the other end vertically extends outwardly in a direction away from the second surface; therefore, when holding the first and second support bars with two hands, a user can drive the wheel in a mode of riding a bicycle, so a body of the user moves forward and backward, so as to work muscles of an upper part of the body.
US08267842B2 Ergometer suitable for use in a magnetic resonance apparatus
The present invention relates to an ergometer which is particularly suitable for examining a test person or patient in a magnetic resonance apparatus. It comprises at least one drive means which is provided essentially movably and at least one pneumatic piston/cylinder array. The drive means is provided at the piston or the cylinder and pneumatically applied pressure between the piston and the cylinder constitutes a resistance or force to be overcome by the test person or patient by operating the drive means. The resistance or the force necessary to set the drive means in motion, particularly during operation, can be controlled and/or regulated and the piston and the cylinder are sized such that an air cushion is formed between them at least during operation or when they move relative to each other. The resistance or the force necessary to operate the drive means is regulated and/or controlled automatically or electronically based on measured signals from a feedback loop during the examination of the test person or patient.
US08267839B1 Device and method for resistance stretching of the muscles of the lower leg
Methods and systems are provided for resistance stretching and strengthening of the muscles of the lower leg of a human user. The device and method provide a lever arm for hinging the foot about the ankle joint for providing resistance first against a series of concentric, and preferably but optionally, isometric contractions of the muscles of the lower leg sufficient to fatigue at least one of the muscles, and then for applying force sufficient to oppose and overcome the opposite force of the user to perform an eccentric contraction of the muscles. The device includes an elongated portion that acts as a lever arm for hinging the foot about the ankle joint and a fastening means for securing the foot against the top surface of the elongated portion and allowing for manipulation of the foot to assist in the performance of the various contractions of the muscles of the lower leg.
US08267838B2 Rehabilitation support apparatus
The present invention provides an overhead support apparatus for assisting a user while performing rehabilitation physical activities and includes a track assembly supported by the ceiling and a suspension device that depends from the track assembly and is attached to the user so that the apparatus acts to prevent the user from falling down during physical activities. The suspension assembly includes a trolley adapted to traverse the track assembly, a locking snap assembly attached to the trolley and associated with a swivel, and an adjustable lanyard that is connected to the swivel at one end and to a body harness at its opposite end, which body harness has straps for encircling the torso and legs of a user.
US08267835B2 Generator set
A generator system for a portable, residential or small business generator includes an engine, an alternator, a continuously variable transmission pulley system and a governor. The engine includes a drive shaft and a throttle. The alternator includes a rotor disposed on a rotor shaft. The continuously variable transmission pulley system includes a drive pulley coupled to the drive shaft, a driven pulley coupled to the rotor shaft, and a belt configured to engage the drive pulley and the driven pulley. The governor adjusts the engine throttle to control the speed of the engine in response to a speed of the rotor shaft.
US08267832B2 Multi-speed transaxle
A front wheel drive transmission is provided having a transmission input member, a transmission output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes a sun gear member, a planet carrier member, and a ring gear member. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and a brake arranged within a transmission housing.
US08267830B2 Combination continuously variable transmission and planetary transmission
A modular assembly of a transmission is provided in which a continuously variable transmission module is separable from a planetary transmission module. When connected, the two modules function as a single transmission. The two modules are connectable in multiple orientations relative to each other. A single fluid source can be provided for operation of the two modules.
US08267824B2 Control device for vehicle power transmitting apparatus
The present invention relates to a control device for a vehicle power transmitting apparatus. The vehicle power transmitting apparatus includes an electrically controlled differential portion of which differential state is controlled between a rotation speed of an input shaft to which power of an engine is input and a rotation speed of an output shaft by controlling an operational state of an electric motor connected to a rotary element of a differential mechanism, and a shifting portion constructing a part of a power transmitting path. The control device includes a correspondence controlling unit for controlling the engine or the vehicle power transmitting apparatus to allow the shifting portion to be shifted when a command for shifting by a manual shift operation is issued in an operating region restricting the shifting of the shifting portion.
US08267819B2 Timing belt tensioner with stops controlled by brake device
A tensioner having a backstop device which allows free rotation of the pivot arm in a first direction but controls rotation of the pivot arm in a second, opposite direction. The backstop device permits a predetermined, limited amount of free rotation in the second direction and thereafter, employs a braking device to prevent rotation in the second direction if the torque that acts on the pivot art is less than a predetermined threshold.
US08267817B2 Fletching system and method therefor
A fletching system and method that allows for quick and easy attachment of a fletching member to an arrow shaft provides a slotted arrow shaft adapted to receive a fletching member projecting therethrough and an internal plug member disposed within a hollow center of the arrow shaft in pressing frictional fit engagement with a flanged base portion of the fletching member wherein the flanged base portion is secured between the plug member and an internal surface of a sidewall of the arrow shaft.
US08267815B2 Nock adapter for bowfishing arrow
A nock adapter for a solid shaft bowfishing arrow fits on a standard conical taper of a solid shaft arrow and provides an extended cylindrical joint releasably engaging a cylindrical boss of a nock for field replacement of the nock while resisting lateral disengaging impacts.
US08267813B2 Lacrosse head and stick
A lacrosse head is disclosed, comprising: a frame having a base, a pair of sidewalls extending from the base, and a scoop connecting the pair of sidewalls opposite the base, the scoop defining an aperture for receiving a portion of a net, wherein the aperture has an upper edge and a lower edge, the lower edge having a first notch, a second notch, and a center portion intermediate to the first notch and the second notch. Also disclosed is a lacrosse stick comprising: an elongated shaft having a butt end and a head end, and a port formed through the head end; and a head attachable to the shaft.
US08267812B1 Putting/chipping trainer
A putting/chipping training apparatus and method which allow a trainee to develop an effective putting/chipping stroke through the use of a motion-generating device that, using the trainee's selected golf club, e.g. putter, repeatedly replicates the trainee's most comfortable swing or one patterned thereafter or one that is modified to incorporate well-accepted fundamentals. The device achieves this desired end by effecting rotational movement on two parallel axes simultaneously with linear movement to move the club through the swing path, with the trainee's hands gently holding the grip. The method is individualized by first tracking the trainee's desired stroke to create an average swing path for one stroke which is entered into a databank and can then be precisely replicated.
US08267804B1 Game table with hockey game
A game table includes: a table body having two end frames; a table board rotatably connected between the two end frames, the table board having a hockey table face in which an air space is formed; an air-blowing member mounted in one of the end frames for blowing air into a pressure reservation space, after the pressure is reserved in the pressure reservation space, the air flowing into the air space and then flowing out the hockey table face through orifices thereof; and multiple flow guide units disposed in the air space to partition the air space into multiple flow ways. The flow guide units and the flow ways communicate with each other, whereby the air can uniformly flow to every part of the air space without generating turbulence and with the air pressure unified over the air space to enhance blowing effect of the hockey table face.
US08267801B2 Homokinetic joint
A homokinetic joint is described that comprises a male member with several arms, a female member for receiving the male member, a roller mounted and freely rotating on each arm, a spring provided between the male member and the female member and for urging the male member away from the female member, and a cup provided between the spring and the male member. The cup includes a skirt comprising an outer surface designed to contact at least one of the rollers when the joint is in a separated state.
US08267799B2 Device for damping vibrations
A device for damping vibrations comprising at least two coaxially arranged damper parts rotatable relative to each other to a limited extent in the circumferential direction, coupled by torque transmitting means and damping coupling means, which exhibit at least one energy accumulator unit, and forming the impingement areas for the energy accumulator units. At least one damper part forms a guide channel for the energy accumulator units. The individual impingement area on the damper part forming the guide channel for the energy accumulator units is formed by a stop element, connected in a torsion proof manner at least indirectly to the damper part and forms the abutment faces in the guide channel in the circumferential direction. The abutment face is capable of supporting the energy accumulator unit on both sides of the impingement area on the energy accumulator unit and is a part of the other damper part.
US08267798B2 Formed grease cover retention feature
A connection system for a grease cover of a constant velocity joint includes a groove portion formed in a generally annular portion of the constant velocity joint. The generally annular portion is defined, at least in part, by an inner surface. The system also includes an insertion tool a grease cover selectively positioned at least partially within the groove portion. The grease cover includes an outer edge portion.
US08267792B2 Managing portable wagering game machines
Systems and methods manage the presentation of wagering games on a portable wagering game machine. The systems and methods determine if an authorized user is in possession of the portable wagering game machine, and further determine if the portable wagering game machine is in a location where wagering games are authorized to be presented.
US08267791B2 Server system, schedule management device and method
Local groups LG formed of players belonging to the same team are generated in store units. The local groups LG of each team are combined to generate groups G of each team (group Ga of team A and group Gb of team B). The groups G of which the number of players is the same and which belong to different teams are matched as opposite groups.
US08267788B2 Gamepiece controller using a movable position-sensing display device including a movement currency mode of movement
Embodiments of the invention provide a method and apparatus for moving a gamepiece in an electronic game where gamepieces are moved by user movement of devices. For example, cell phones may be used to control gamepiece movement on a table top or other surface. Each user moves their respective cell phone to control the movement of their gamepiece. Other user controls can be used to provide additional interaction. One embodiment discloses a tank game where each user operates a tank that is used to shoot at other user gamepieces in real time as the users move about a table top surface. Details are provided of two specific types of movement, but other types of movement are possible.
US08267785B2 Game apparatus and computer readable storage medium having game program stored thereon
First, operation data including at least acceleration data and angular velocity data is obtained from an input device including at least an acceleration sensor and a gyrosensor. Next, based on the acceleration data and the angular velocity data, a moving velocity of the input device itself and/or a relative positional relationship between the input device and a center of a rotation motion applied on the input device itself is estimated. Then, predetermined game processing is executed based on the estimated moving velocity and/or relative positional relationship.
US08267783B2 Establishing an impression area
Systems and methods for defining and tracking advertising campaigns across a channel video game network are disclosed. The system allows advertisements to be dynamically activated in video games. Advertisements are tracked to determine user impressions and user exposure to the advertisement. In the system, an impression area is defined relative an advertisements in the game. Methods for redefining the impression area or for accounting for the existence of obstructions that distort the view of the advertisement are also provided.
US08267777B2 Wagering game with progressive award indicator having an incrementing feature
A gaming system for conducting a wagering game includes a wager input device, a first display, and a second display. The wager input device receives a wager. The first display displays an array of symbols that indicates a randomly selected outcome. The second display displays an amount of at least one progressive award in at least one display window. The progressive award has an integer value. At least a first incrementing marker moves about the display window in response to changes in value of the progressive award.
US08267763B2 Select and drag method for a gaming machine
A method for playing a casino gaming device including a select and drag feature. In one embodiment, a player selects values for multiple positions or spots on a game of chance, such as a lottery style game. The player initially selects a value in one of the game positions. The player touches a touch-screen display or other input device located above the game position displaying the initially selected value, and then touches any other game position to copy the initially selected value into the other game positions. In one method, the player touches the touch-screen display located above the touch-screen display, and then drags the initially selected value across the remaining game positions with his finger to set the values for the remaining game positions to the initially selected value. This select and drag feature increases the rate of play for players selecting the same value for multiple game positions.
US08267762B2 Faster play card games
Blackjack and Blackjack-related card games are provided in which the speed of play is increased over the conventional ways these games are played. After the initial cards are provided to each of the players, determinations regarding the order in which players are to receive requested, additional cards are made using a control that communicates with terminals. The player who is determined to be the first to make a request for another card is provided the next additional card(s). Such determinations rely on requests generated by the players using input elements associated with their terminals. For each set of one or more additional cards being requested, one or more players make a request using the player's input element. A number of such sets of requests are typically made until all players are finished receiving requested cards. Accordingly, players do not need to wait until one or more other players have completed their game play before being able to receive their own additional card(s). The order related to being provided additional cards depends on the speed of input requests and not the positions of the players. The modified Blackjack and Blackjack-related games can be played at a table and online.
US08267760B2 Game device, game device control method, and information storage medium
A final result determining section determines a final result of a related match which is carried out in parallel with at least a part of a main match in which a target instructed by a game player participates. A main match performing section carries out the main match. An interim result output control section causes an output section to output an interim result of the related match in a case where the main match is being carried out. An interim result determining section determines the interim result of the related match to be output in the case where the main match is being carried out, based on an interim result of the main match and the final result of the related match.
US08267757B2 Vehicular air conditioning apparatus
In a vehicular air conditioning apparatus, a first blower unit is connected by a connection duct to a side portion of a casing constituted by respective air passages, and a second blower unit separate from the first blower unit is connected to a lower portion of the casing. The first blower unit adjusts an inflow rate of external air by means of an adjustment damper, which is disposed to face toward an opening of a duct, and the external air flows into the casing through an intake damper.
US08267754B2 Skinning knife
A skinning knife, comprising a handle, a slitting blade disposed at a forward portion of the handle and having an upwardly- and forwardly-directed cutting edge, a first spreading member disposed at the forward most position of the knife so as to spread apart two portions of animal hide that have been separated by the slitting blade, and a retractable punch blade disposed in the handle beneath slitting blade for opening a hole in the hide, the first spreading member having a slot therein for receiving the punch blade. A punch blade actuation mechanism is provided for moving the punch blade through the slot in the first spreading member. Preferably, a second spreading member disposed below and forward of the first spreading member is provided for facilitating entry into a small slit.
US08267748B2 Safe guarding assembly for a grinding gun
A safe guarding assembly for a grinding gun has a body, a rear protective cap and a front protective cap. The body has a casing. The casing has a front end, a shaft hole and a retaining ring. The shaft hole is formed through the casing. The retaining ring is formed on and protrudes from the front end of the casing around the shaft hole. The rear protective cap is mounted securely around the retaining ring of the casing and has a front end, an inner thread, a through hole and a mounting ring. The mounting ring is formed on and protrudes from the front end of the rear protective cap and has an external surface and an outer thread. The front protective cap is mounted detachably around the mounting ring of the rear protective cap and has an inner thread and a conical segment.
US08267747B2 Surface abrasion of objects
A chamber for an abrading apparatus comprising an inlet, an outlet, a main body and an insert, the main body comprising a recess on an inner surface thereof between the inlet and the outlet, whereby, in use, the insert is removably retained in the recess. The apparatus also comprises a housing and actuation means, the chamber being pivotably secured at one end to the housing by a quick release pin, wherein the actuation means is connected to the chamber and operable to cause the chamber to pivot with respect to the housing toward and/or away from the abrasive surface.
US08267746B2 Substrate holding apparatus, polishing apparatus, and polishing method
A substrate holding apparatus prevents a substrate from slipping out and allows the substrate to be polished stably. The substrate holding apparatus has a top ring body for holding and pressing a substrate against a polishing surface, and a retainer ring for pressing the polishing surface, the retainer ring being disposed on an outer circumferential portion of the top ring body. The retainer ring includes a first member made of a magnetic material and a second member having a magnet disposed on a surface thereof which is held in abutment against the first member.
US08267742B2 Slicing method and a wire saw apparatus
The present invention is a slicing method and a wire saw apparatus including winding a wire around a plurality of grooved rollers and pressing the wire against an ingot to be sliced into wafers while supplying a slurry for slicing to the grooved rollers and causing the wire to travel in a reciprocating direction, in which the ingot is sliced with controlling a temperature of the ingot by supplying a slurry for adjusting an ingot temperature to the ingot independently from the slurry for slicing while the slurry for adjusting an ingot temperature is supplied to the ingot only at the exit side of the wire caused to travel in the reciprocating direction. As a result, there is provided a method and a wire saw apparatus in which rapid cooling of an ingot especially in a time close to end of slicing of the ingot can be alleviated, consequently degradation of a nano-topography can be suppressed, and further high-quality wafers having a uniform thickness can be sliced when slicing the ingot by using a wire saw.
US08267741B2 Glass substrate manufacturing method, glass substrate polishing method, glass substrate polishing apparatus and glass substrate
A polishing apparatus, includes: a motor; and a controlling unit configured to control the motor, wherein: a glass substrate is polished by causing the controlling unit to control a driving of the motor; and the controlling unit executes a controlling operation for controlling a polishing of the glass substrate, based on an electric power or an electric energy required for the driving of the motor.
US08267733B2 Method of manufacturing display unit using laser removal of organic material
A laminated structure is formed by placing a cover substrate over a device substrate with a projection structure in between in the vacuum atmosphere. Next, the laminated structure is taken out into the air in a state that a space between the device substrate and the cover substrate is maintained in the vacuum atmosphere. Subsequently, the portion of the organic layer formed on the auxiliary electrode is removed by irradiating laser light to the laminated structure. Since the space between the device substrate and the cover substrate is maintained in the vacuum atmosphere, even if the laser light is emitted to the laminated structure taken out into the air, the laser light is emitted to the portion of the organic layer formed on the auxiliary electrode in the vacuum atmosphere.
US08267730B2 Device for connecting two electrical conductors
The invention relates to a device for connecting two electrical conductors (4, 5), comprising a metallic clamp (1) that is designed as a pipe section and that comprises in the wall thereof at least two through holes provided with a thread for receiving clamping screws (2) provided with an external thread. In the pipe section of the clamp (1), at least one central through hole provided with a thread is furnished between the two through holes in order to receive a fixing screw (3) provided with an external thread, wherein the fixing screw has a tapered, approximately wedge-shaped tip (11), which, in the assembled position, lies rigidly against the end faces of the two conductors (4, 5) inserted into the pipe section. The tip (11) provided with an external thread is screwed into a hole (10) of the fixing screw (3) provided with an internal thread, and the external thread of the tip (1) runs opposite to the external thread of the fixing screw (3).
US08267723B2 Floor-mounted domestic appliance
A floor-mounted domestic appliance includes an A.C. power connector that supplies the appliance with electric energy, an appliance outlet that corresponds to the A.C. power connector, wherein the appliance outlet comprises a terminal block for establishing an electrically conducting connection to a power supply lead.
US08267720B2 Seal structure
A seal structure includes a housing and a waterproof member provided in the housing. The waterproof member includes a body and electric wire insertion holes formed in the body for passing through electric wires respectively. Each of the electric wire insertion holes has a first insertion part and a second insertion part. An inner diameter of the second insertion part is larger than an inner diameter of the first insertion part. The first insertion part is adapted to hold a first electric wire and the second insertion part is adapted to hold a second electric wire. An outer diameter of the first electric wire is larger than an outer diameter of the second electric wire. An elastic portion attached to an outer periphery of the second electric wire is positioned at the first insertion part or the second insertion part in an intimate contact state.
US08267715B2 Closed IDC terminal
This present invention refers to a combined terminal and casing for establishing electrical contact between a multi-wire cable and a magnetic wire that uses the insulation displacement connector (IDC) concept, wherein the terminal (11, 25) has holes (12, 26) and closed channels (13, 27) to receive the multi-wire cable (23, 36) and openings (14, 28) to receive the magnetic wire (24, 37) linked to narrow slots (15, 29). The casing (18, 31) has through-holes (20, 21, 32, 34) for inserting the multi-wire cable (23, 36) and the magnetic wire (24, 37), as well as an opening (19, 35) to receive the terminal. Inserting the terminal into the casing causes the pressure exerted on the multi-wire cable and the magnetic wire to force the entry thereof into the narrow channels, causing the isolation layer to be withdrawn, providing electrical contact between the multi-wire cable and the terminal, between the magnetic wire and the terminal and, consequently, between the multi-wire cable and the magnetic wire.
US08267713B2 Cable connector assembly with latch mechanism having a latch member with pins and a pulling member with holes corresponding to the pins
A cable connector assembly includes a housing and a plurality of conductive contacts located in the housing. The housing defines a receiving room therein and a mating port through which a complementary connector is inserted into the receiving room. A plurality of cables electrically connects with the conductive contacts. A latch mechanism is assembled to an outside face of the housing and includes a latch member and a pulling member connecting with the latch member. The latch member defines a pair of hook portions inserted into the receiving room from the outside face and latching with the complementary connector. The latch member further defines a pair of shaft pins and the pulling member defines a pair of shaft holes. The shaft pins are pivotedly received in the shaft holes.
US08267708B1 Implantable feedthrough-based connector
An implantable connector electrically connects multi-conductor leads to an implantable medical device such as a neurostimulator. The connector is applicable to a variety of lead contact terminals, including iso-diametric terminals with ring contacts, paddle-shaped terminals with flat pad contacts, and orthogonal lead contact terminals. The connector is assembled directly into a hermetic feedthrough of the device and utilizes the feedthrough housing as a sustaining structure for connector pressurization. The feedthrough pins are integrated with compressible contacts in a manner that confines, protects, and precisely positions the compressible contacts. The compressible contacts can be coil springs, metal-particle-filled elastomer buttons, and fuzz buttons, and can be used with rigid tips where a contact preload and/or an enhanced contact tip robustness is desired. Connector pressurization means include covers fastened with a screw and cam actuated clamping covers which support contact forces and the seal compression by engaging undercuts on the feedthrough housing walls.
US08267706B2 Patch cord with insertion detection and light illumination capabilities
A patch cord for an intelligent patching system is provided. The patch cord is a ten-wire patch cord having a patch panel plug and a switch plug. The patch panel plug contains ninth and tenth wire contacts that interface with ninth and tenth wire contacts of an intelligent patch panel port. The switch plug is provided with a plunger-style switch that enables the intelligent patch panel to determine when the switch plug is plugged into a switch port. The switch plug is also provided with LED's and circuitry that controls the LED's.
US08267705B2 Electronic device with detachable plug capable of changing plugging direction
An electronic device with a detachable plug capable of changing plugging direction is disclosed. The electronic device comprises a main body and a plug. The main body has a plug-receiving portion, and the plug-receiving portion comprises at least two conducting pieces. The plug has a plug body and at least two conductive terminals. The plug body comprises four trenches disposed at a bottom thereof and arranged as a square. Each of the conductive terminals comprises a plugging portion, a connection portion and an extension portion, wherein the plugging portion is protruded out of a surface of the plug body, and the connection portion and the extension portion are embedded in the plug body and are corresponding to two adjacent trenches, respectively. Thereby, when the plug is assembled on the plug-receiving portion of the main body, the two conducting pieces are respectively received in two opposite trenches and contacted with either the two connection portions or the two extension portions of the two conductive terminals for power conduction.
US08267704B2 Connector module capable of protecting conductive resilient components thereof
A connector module is disclosed in the present invention. The connector module includes a housing defining an interior chamber, and a substrate installed inside the interior chamber of the housing. A first set of metal contacts and a second set of metal contacts are disposed on the substrate. The connector module further includes a sliding component slidably relative to a side of the substrate, and at least one conductive resilient component installed on the sliding component. The conductive resilient component is hidden inside the housing when the sliding component slides into the interior chamber of the housing, and the conductive resilient component is exposed outside the housing to electrically contact the second set of metal contacts when the sliding component slides out of the interior chamber of the housing.
US08267702B2 Electrical distribution center assembly having a terminal stabilizer integrally formed with a housing
An electrical distribution center assembly includes a housing having a connector shroud. The shroud defines a shroud cavity adapted for receiving a mating electrical connector body. A blade stabilizer is formed integral with the shroud in a first position within the shroud cavity. The blade stabilizer has blade apertures formed therein. Bladed terminals extend from the housing into the blade apertures. In this position, the blade stabilizer protects the terminal blades from being bent away from a terminal axis. The blade stabilizer is movable to a second position to enable female terminals of the mating electrical connector to electrically connect to the blade terminals.
US08267696B2 Roll out strategy analysis database application
A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for developing training for a client. Training delivery requirements for a client are identified. Assessment information is gathered. A training curriculum is developed based on the training delivery requirements and the assessment information. An amount of time required to complete the training is estimated to form a delivery estimate. The delivery estimate is translated into an estimate of resources required for development of training materials for the training. Verification is performed to verify that the client receives the training materials for delivery to an end user.
US08267695B2 Tooth for dental arch model and method for producing the same
The present invention relates to a tooth which is used in a dental arch model with which dental students can experience dental works in the oral cavity and practice treatments. More specifically, the present invention relates to a tooth composition for formation trainings such as abutment tooth formation and cavity preparation. Since conventionally used dental arch models have a grinding sensation different from a natural tooth, dental students having completed formation trainings such as abutment tooth formation and cavity preparation by using these conventional models are frequently puzzled to have different grinding and handling properties upon dental works in the oral cavity in practice. That is, these conventional dental arch models are largely different from a natural tooth in grinding sensation including slipperiness and easiness in grinding. A tooth for a dental arch model simulating the enamel texture and the dentin texture constituting a natural tooth whereby even the difference in grinding sensation between the enamel texture and the dentin texture constituting a natural tooth can be reproduced by forming at least the enamel portion with the use of a sintered body of an inorganic powder such as alumina.
US08267694B1 Health and fitness systems
Systems and methods integrating childhood health and fitness into educational programs. Included are integrating multimedia entertainment concepts into health and fitness educational programs that are combined with multiple curricula.
US08267689B2 Describing a periodontal disease state
A method of describing a periodontal disease state includes assigning severity diagnoses to portions of a dentition, where the severity diagnoses correspond to periodontal disease states, and assigning numeric values to the portions, where the numeric values correspond to the severity diagnoses. The method also includes obtaining a raw score based on the numeric values, and determining a disease score based on the raw score. The disease score corresponds to a periodontal disease state of the dentition.
US08267688B2 Dental implant and method for manufacturing dental implant
A dental implant is provided. The dental implant includes an abutment and a fixture to be coupled to the abutment and anchored to a jawbone, and the fixture having a female thread portion. The abutment comprises a titanium member composed of a sintered body made from titanium or titanium alloy, and a ceramic member fixed to the titanium member, the ceramic member composed of a sintered body made from oxide-based ceramic. The ceramic member has a female thread portion, and the titanium member has a first male thread portion which makes thread coupling with the female thread portion of the ceramic member and a second male thread portion which makes thread coupling with the female thread portion of the fixture, whereby the ceramic member is fixed to the titanium member and the titanium member is fixed to the fixture.
US08267684B2 Mold with ejection mechanism
A mold comprising a core plate receiving a core insert, a cavity plate receiving a cavity insert and an ejection mechanism configured to eject the core insert is disclosed. The core insert defines a first molding surface and the cavity insert defines a second molding surface cooperating with the first molding surface. The ejection mechanism comprises a top plate, a bottom plate, an ejection rod and a gasket. The ejection rod includes a first end in contact with the core insert in the core plate and an opposing second end fixed with the top plate, the bottom plate and the gasket by the fastener and the locating piece. The top plate drives the ejection rod to eject the core insert.
US08267683B2 Apparatus for forming layered object
A layered-object forming apparatus (1) includes a holding mechanism (10) that holds a base (12), a liquid applying device (20) that applies a liquid to a predetermined position from above the base, a powder applying device (30) that allows a powder to fall from above the base, and a powder removing device that removes an unconsolidated powder on the base. Then, a process of applying the liquid by the liquid applying device, subsequently applying the powder by the powder applying device, subsequently consolidating the liquid and the powder applied onto the liquid and then removing the powder that has not been consolidated with the liquid by the powder removing device is repeated, thereby forming a three-dimensional structure on the base. Thus, it is possible to produce a three-dimensional structure that at least partially has a smooth surface, thus allowing omission or simplification of a surface smoothing treatment.
US08267678B2 Vane type vacuum pump
A vane type vacuum pump 1 is provided in the vicinity of an air intake passage 11 for sucking the air into a pump chamber 2, and communicates a space A on the front side and a space B on the back side of the rotational direction of the vane at the time of the reverse rotation of the vane 6, and includes an escaping groove 21 for allowing a lubricating oil to escape into the space B on the back side from the space A on the front side.
US08267677B2 Gasket part for a pump
The invention relates to a gasket part for a pump to be used in conjunction with a bearing part (1) of the pump, through which there is arranged a drive shaft (2). According to the invention, the gasket part includes a mechanical gasket (7) and a detachable part (4) of the drive shaft, which detachable part is arranged substantially in conjunction with the bearing part (1) and can be detachably connected between the other parts (3, 5) of the drive shaft; the gasket (7) is arranged in conjunction with the detachable part (4) of the drive shaft; and the detachable part (4) of the drive shaft includes means (8) for arranging it so as to be compacted in the longitudinal direction. Moreover, the invention concerns a method for detaching the gasket part and use of the gasket part.
US08267676B2 Apparatus and method for preventing the penetration of seawater into a compressor module during lowering to or retrieval from the seabed
An apparatus for preventing seawater from penetrating into a compressor module during lowering to or retrieval from a compression plant on the seabed, with optional discharge of residual production fluids, as for instance hydrocarbons, from the compressor module prior to retrieval, wherein the compressor module comprises an electric motor (1) and a compressor (2) which are respectively connected via at least one shaft (8) and are arranged in a common pressure shell (3), an inlet pipe (5) and an outlet pipe (6) to and from the compressor module which respectively are provided with an isolation valve (7, 7′). The compressor module is distinguished in that it includes at least one filling pipe (16) which has a shut-off valve (15), at least one drainage pipe (12) which has a shut-off valve (13), and which is located at a lower end of the compressor module, and at least one overflow pipe (14) which has a shut-off valve (17), and which is spaced apart from the at least one filling pipe (16), and that prior to lowering to or retrieval from the seabed, with optional discharge of residual production fluids prior to retrieval, the compressor module is filled with filling fluid via the at least one filling pipe (16) until overflow of filling fluid through the at least one overflow pipe (14). The present invention also relates to a method which correspondingly prevents such penetration of seawater into and discharge of residual production fluid from the compressor module.
US08267675B2 High flow piezoelectric pump
A piezoelectric pump for pumping a fluid at a high flow rate includes a housing and an actuator located within the housing. An electric voltage applied to the actuator causes the actuator to apply a force to a first diaphragm that is proximate to the actuator. A piston assembly is located within the housing and is moveable between at least a first position and a second position. A first fluid chamber is defined by the housing, the first diaphragm, and the piston assembly. A coupling fluid is located within the first fluid chamber for coupling the first diaphragm to the piston assembly. A second fluid chamber is defined by the housing and the piston assembly. An inlet valve is in communication with the second fluid chamber and an outlet valve is in communication with the second fluid chamber.
US08267672B2 High pressure pump
An ultrahigh pressure pump includes a frame; a crankshaft having a journal; and at least one telescoping pump subassembly having inner and outer ends. The outer end is carried by the frame pivot so as to allow pivotal swinging movement of the pump subassembly, and the inner end is attached to the journal. The piston rod can reciprocate relative to the inner bore substantially free from side loads. The pump subassembly includes: an outer member including a cylinder defining an inner bore; and a inner member having a piston rod and a outer sleeve. The piston rod is received in the inner bore and the cylinder is received in the outer sleeve. First and second restraining elements are disposed at spaced-apart positions along the axis of the pump subassembly and are configured to oppose misalignment forces between the piston rod and the cylinder.
US08267667B2 Magnetic drive metering pump
A magnetic drive metering pump in which a movable thrust member is fixed to a diaphragm and is axially movable in a magnet shroud. The thrust member, on electrically actuating the magnet shroud, is drawn into the magnet shroud against the force of a recuperating spring, and after deactivating the magnet shroud, is returned to a starting position. The diaphragm cooperates alternately with an outlet and an inlet valve to produce a pump stroke in a pump metering head. The magnetic drive metering pump has a reference element associated with the thrust member and diaphragm, the position of which reference element is detected by a positional sensor. The positional sensor provides a signal which has a fixed relationship to the position of the reference element, and the motion of the thrust member is controlled by a control circuit such that it follows a predetermined nominal profile.
US08267656B2 Propeller pitch lock system
A variable pitch propulsor system with a propeller pitchlock system which utilizes a follower style pitchlock ballscrew screw which tracks the actuator axial stroke. The pitchlock system transfers the propeller yoke loads, from the ballscrew ballnut to the pitchlock nut allowing the propeller to pitchlock; utilizes the same screw thread lead angle for normal ballscrew back driving operation as well as pitch locking capabilities; provides a single ballscrew which is capable of both being back driven by the ballnut and structurally adequate for reacting the blade loads resulting from any flight condition; and minimizes the requirement of additional rotation and torque transferring interfaces between the ballscrew and pitchlock nut.
US08267654B2 Wind turbine with gust compensating air deflector
An apparatus and system for counteracting wind gusts and other high load situations in a wind turbine includes the use of one or more gust counteracting devices configured to extend an air deflector outwardly from a surface of a turbine rotor blade. The air deflector may subsequently be retracted into the rotor blade once the wind gust has subsided or once the load falls below a certain threshold. Mechanisms for extending and retracting the air deflector may include pneumatic or hydraulic systems and/or electromechanical devices. Air deflectors are generally configured to normalize air flow around the rotor blade so that the risk of potential damage to components of the wind turbine is minimized. In one arrangement, the gust counteracting device may be located at a leading section of the turbine blade. Additionally or alternatively, the device may be modular in nature to facilitate the removal and replacement of the device.
US08267648B2 Compact low noise efficient blower for CPAP devices
A blower includes an electric motor having a shaft, a housing having a housing inlet and a housing outlet between which is defined a flow path for gas, a first impeller having a plurality of blades adapted to accelerate gas tangentially and to direct it radially outward, and a stationary portion. The stationary portion includes a gas flow path defined between an external wall of the motor and a wall of the stationary portion, a first stationary vane structure located downstream of the first impeller, and a shield constructed and arranged to provide a barrier between the first stationary vane structure and the blades of the first impeller to isolate leading edges of the first stationary vane structure from an impeller blade pressure pulse. The flow path is of sufficient width to allow a flow of gas therethrough without introducing excessive pressure drop.
US08267647B2 Variable geometry turbocharger lower vane ring retaining system
A vane ring assembly which includes a lower vane ring (22), an upper vane ring (30), one or more guide vanes (80) positioned at least partially between the vane rings, and a plurality of spacers (42, or 50) positioned between the lower and upper vane rings for maintaining a distance between the lower and upper vane rings. By using a first set of fasteners (190) to fasten the lower vane ring to the turbine housing, and a second set of fasteners (191) to fasten the lower vane ring to the upper vane ring, the vane ring assembly is effectively decoupled from the turbine housing with regard to differential thermal expansion, and the co-planerism of the vane rings is easier to maintain.
US08267646B2 Method of assembling a multi-stage turbine or compressor
A method is disclosed for assembling a multi-stage compressor or a multi-stage turbine for use in a gas-turbine engine. The method comprises the steps of assembling a rotor drum so as to comprise a plurality of rotor discs 17, 18, and then releasably connecting a plurality of static components 38 to the assembled rotor drum 19, thus forming an intermediate structure. The intermediate structure is then inserted within an outer casing 50, preferably by lowering the outer casing 50 over the intermediate structure, whereafter the static components 38 are fixed to the outer casing 50. The static components 38 are then released from their connection to the rotor drum 19 in order to permit rotation of the drum 19 relative to the static components 38 and the outer casing 50.
US08267639B2 Systems and methods for providing compressor extraction cooling
Embodiments of methods and apparatus for providing compressor extraction cooling are provided. According to one example embodiment, a method for providing compressor extraction cooling in a gas turbine comprising a compressor and a turbine section can be provided. The method can include providing a cooling medium. The method can include extracting air from a compressor associated with a gas turbine. The method can also include introducing the cooling medium to the compressor extraction air, wherein the compressor extraction air is cooled by the cooling medium prior to or during introduction to the turbine section.
US08267638B1 Method and apparatus for loading vessels using rotation
A method and apparatus for rapid loading stacks of items aboard vessels which can include rotating palletized items to depalletize the items, and then placing the items on a lifting robot, lifting the robot and items into the hold of a vessel, removing the items from the robot using a load push lift truck, and then using the load push lift truck to stow the items in a stowage location. The empty robot can be removed from the hold of the vessel and put in a position to receive a another depalletized stack of cartons. In one option the robot has a plurality of fork channels for receiving the blades of a load push lift truck along with receiving the blades or a rotating lift truck.
US08267636B2 Substrate transport apparatus
A substrate transport apparatus including a first shaftless rotary motor including a first stator and a first rotor, the first stator being linearly distributed and the first rotor being coupled to a first arm, a second shaftless rotary motor including a second stator and second rotor, the second stator being linearly distributed and the second rotor being coupled to a second arm, the second arm being connected to the first arm and a first substrate support being coupled to at least one of the first and second arms, wherein the first stator and second stator are configured so that the first and second arms and the first substrate support are inside the stators and a motor output at a connection between the first and second shaftless rotary motors and a respective one of the first and second arms is a resultant force disposed peripheral to the first and second arms.
US08267632B2 Semiconductor manufacturing process modules
A system for processing semiconductor wafers including a plurality of robotic facilities serially joined to each other to form a substantially linear transport chamber through which wafers can be transferred from each facility, wherein the substantially linear transport chamber is sealed to hold a controlled atmosphere and each of the plurality of robotic facilities includes at least one scara robot having three arm links serially coupled to one another and having a substrate holder rotatably coupled at a distal end of the three arm links, the plurality of robot facilities being configured to effect the transfer of wafers through the substantially linear transport chamber via handoff a wafer between neighboring scara robots, and a multi-entry process module coupled to at least one of the plurality of robotic facilities, where each entry of the multi-entry process module is accessed by the at least one of the at least one scara robot.
US08267630B2 Threaded flanged bushing for fastening applications
A fastening system includes a first material having a first hole, a second material having a second hole, a bushing, and a threaded bolt. The bushing is located in the second hole and has a first end abutting the first material and a flanged second for securing the bushing to the second material. A threaded bolt extends through the first hole and into the bushing to secure the first material flush against the second material.
US08267622B1 Carrier apparatus for pneumatic tube delivery system
A carrier apparatus is provided for transport through a pneumatic tube delivery system. The carrier apparatus comprises a housing contoured with forward and aft portions and an axially extended body portion disposed therebetween. The housing includes at least first and second separable sections enclosing a carrying compartment. At least a pair of retaining assemblies are detachably coupled to the housing, with each retaining assembly encircling the housing's body portion to couple the first and second housing sections for angular displacement one relative to the other between open and closed configurations. Each of the retaining assemblies includes a glide band portion disposed to protrude radially from the housing in the closed configuration for slidably engaging an inner wall surface of a pneumatic delivery tube. At least one latch assembly is coupled to releasably lock the housing sections in the closed configuration.
US08267616B2 Pivot joint
A pivot joint includes a first component (12) having a projecting boss form (16) and a second component (11) having an opening (25) for receiving the boss form (16). A headed fastener (32) and washer (27) engage with the boss form (16), which includes engagement elements (17) that dig into the washer (27) when the joint is assembled.
US08267615B2 Connecting mechanism
A connecting mechanism includes a transmission shaft, an adjustment member, a transmission member, a key, and a fastening member. The transmission shaft forms a first threaded portion and a second threaded portion, and axially defines an assembly groove between the two threaded portions. An adjustment member receives the first threaded portion. The transmission member is sleeved on the transmission shaft, and defines a receiving groove. The key is wedge-shaped. The key is partially received in the assembly groove of the transmission shaft, and partially received in the receiving groove of the transmission member. The fastening member engages the second threaded portion, and drives the key to resist the adjustment member.
US08267613B2 Quick release latch assembly
A quick-release latch assembly includes a plate, a latch pivotally coupled to the plate, and a locking assembly movable relative to the latch between a first, unlocked position and a second, locked position. When the locking assembly is in the unlocked position, the latch is allowed to rotate with respect to the plate. In contrast, when the locking assembly is in the locked position, the latch is prevented from rotating with respect to the plate.
US08267609B2 Vial for delivering contents onto a substrate
Dispenser that dispenses a substance onto a substrate, such as a tooth treatment compound onto teeth, includes a vial including a cavity containing the substance and a projecting portion extending outward from the base. An applicator tip is engaged with the conduit and includes an internal passage communicating with the cavity, and an applicator portion situated forward of the conduit and that includes a plurality of spaced-apart projections at a distal application surface, preferably crenellated fingers. A cap is removably attachable to the vial and when attached, the applicator portion of the applicator tip is accommodated in a cavity of the cap and a sealing stopper extends into the internal passage to thereby seal it. When the cap is removed from the vial and the base is squeezed, the substance is urged out of the cavity through the passage of the applicator tip and onto the projections.
US08267608B1 Ramming tool for filling surface voids
A hand tool apparatus for filling voids in a surface includes a cylindrical ram housing having an interior ram space. A ram rod is axially mounted within the ram space. A handle is collinearly engaged with the ram rod and extends outwardly from one end of the ram housing. A hopper positioned on the ram housing is in communication with the ram space within the ram housing. A trowel plate, having a straight edge, is positioned on a further end of the ram housing. The ram rod is guided along the interior of the ram housing by a groove guide, located on the interior of the ram housing, and a groove flange, located on a guide ring that is attached to the ram rod.
US08267606B2 Device for packaging and dispensing a stick of product especially a cosmetic product
A device for packaging and dispensing a product includes a dispensing assembly provided with a holding cup for the product, a sheath in which the cup is mounted, a jacket around the sheath and including an outlet orifice, and an outer sleeve around the jacket. Guide devices are provided to bring about, during a rotation of the outer sleeve relative to said jacket, a joint axial movement of said sheath and of the holding cup relative to the jacket, followed by an axial movement of said cup relative to the guide sheath and to the jacket towards a use position of the product. A protective case in which the dispensing assembly is mounted, forms an outer cover for the assembly and includes an actuating member that is able to rotate the outer sleeve.
US08267603B2 Sheet material cutter and printer
A fixed blade and a movable blade in which a cutting portion end face of the movable blade is orthogonal to a side surface of the movable blade, and the movable blade is brought into sliding contact with the fixed blade to cut a recording sheet. A cutout groove for forming a cutting residual portion in the recording sheet is formed in the cutting portion of the movable blade. A slant surface or a curved surface is formed at an intersection of the side surface of the movable blade, a cutting portion end face of the movable blade and the inner peripheral surface of the cutout groove.
US08267601B2 Platform for stereoscopy for hand-held film/video camera stabilizers
To compensate for changes in weight distribution of transportable, hand-held camera supports when one or both camera translate or pivot in a two-camera stereographic imaging system, the bottom of the elongated camera support attaches to a compensation mechanism. The mechanism has a balance plate movable laterally on a bottom housing. Ballast mounts below the bottom housing. A motor in the bottom housing moves the balance plate and the pole laterally in response to camera pivoting or lateral movement to maintain the center of gravity of the system centered along the longitudinal axis of the elongated support.
US08267599B2 Optical subassembly grounding in an optoelectronic module
Optical subassembly grounding in an optoelectronic module. In one example embodiment, a conductive OSA grounding gasket assembly includes a top gasket and a bottom gasket. The top gasket includes a top shell surface and a top OSA surface. The top shell surface is configured to be in direct physical contact with a conductive top shell of an optoelectronic module. The top OSA surface is configured to make direct physical contact with a conductive housing of an OSA. The bottom gasket includes a bottom OSA surface and a bottom shell surface. The bottom OSA surface is configured to be in direct physical contact with the conductive housing of the OSA. The bottom shell surface is configured to make direct physical contact with a conductive bottom shell of the optoelectronic module.
US08267591B2 Wheel bearing seal and a wheel bearing apparatus provided with the wheel bearing seal
A wheel bearing seal (7, 19, 20) has an annular sealing plate (10 or 21) and a slinger (11 or 11′). The sealing plate (10 or 21) has a metal core (12 or 22) and sealing member (13 or 23). The sealing member (13 or 23) has a first side lip (13a or 23a), a second side lip (13b or 23b), and a grease lip (13c or 23c). The slinger (11 or 11′) has a cylindrical portion (11a or 11a′) and an upstanding portion (11b, 11b′). The first and second side lips (13a or 23a and 13b or 23b) slidably contact the upstanding portion. The grease lip (13c or 23c) slidably contacts with the cylindrical portion (11 a or 11a′). A relationship, F1+F2≦1.5×F3, exists between contacting loads F1 and F2, respectively, of the first and second side lips (13a or 23a and 13b or 23b) and a fastening force F3 of the grease lip (13c or 23c).
US08267589B2 Bush bearing
A bush bearing (1) is a wrapped bush bearing which has a cylindrical inner peripheral surface (2) serving as a sliding surface as well as an outer peripheral surface (3), and whose abutting faces (4) are abutted against each other. The outer peripheral surface (3) includes a cylindrical surface (11); a tapered surface (13) interposed between the cylindrical surface (11) and one annular end face (12) in an axial direction X and formed by roll forming; a smooth circular arc surface (14) interposed between the tapered surface (13) and the cylindrical surface (11); and a smooth circular arc surface (15) interposed between the tapered surface (13) and the end face (12).
US08267588B2 Fluid lubrication bearing device and method of manufacturing the same
Disclosed is a fluid lubrication bearing device in which generation of a contaminant in a resin housing is suppressed, maintaining a high level of cleanliness in the interior and in the periphery of the bearing device. A side portion 7a and a bottom portion 7b of a housing 7 are formed integrally by injection molding of a resin material, and a gate mark 12 of a gate resin portion 11 formed at a lower end surface 7d of the bottom portion 7b of the molding is formed by a jig 13 having a forming surface 13a with a concave configuration. As a result, the cut portion 12a of the gate mark with sharp asperities is smoothened, and the surface 12d of the gate mark 12 is turned into a smooth convex curved surface.
US08267585B2 Motion transmission apparatus with a chain
A motion transmission apparatus with a chain, wherein the chain comprises a plurality of spacers and links for connecting the spacers together, each of the spacers is provided at both sides thereof in an axial direction of an elongated shaft with a plurality of holding protrusions and inclined at an angle from a center of each of the spacers toward a peripheral edge thereof in such a manner that a distance between outer ends of two opposite holding surfaces on two neighboring spacers is smaller than a diameter of the rolling elements, the holding protrusions of the chain are annularly arranged in 120 degree intervals in such a manner that the holding protrusions on the same side of each spacer are alternatively arranged in a direction which is vertical to the links, and two of the holding protrusions are arranged in a line parallel to a direction of the links.
US08267580B2 Freestanding bag
A free-standing bag and a method for producing a free-standing bag from a thermoplastic synthetic film is disclosed. The bag includes a front panel and a back panel, which are connected to one another by lateral seams thus forming a filling opening, and in a collapsed state of the bag, having an inwardly folded base, whereby the inwardly folded base is comprised of a front panel fold as well as a back panel fold, both folds being sealed into the lateral seams, and whereby in the area of the inwardly folded base, an assembly strip is attached, which is made of a reinforced plastic film, and that the assembly strip terminates at a distance from the lateral seams, whereby a reinforcing strip is attached or glued to the inside and/or outside of the front panel and the back panel in the area of the filling opening.
US08267576B2 Time-temperature indicating device
The present invention is generally in the field of measuring and indicating techniques and relates to a time-temperature indicating device and methods of manufacturing and reading this device. More specifically, the time-temperature indicator (TTI) device comprises at least one active reactant being at least a part of a component that is configured to be either an electrical component or transformable into an electrical component, said at least one active reactant being selected to be affectable by a chemical and/or physical reaction effecting a change in at least an electrical property of said electrical component at a rate that is time-temperature dependent.
US08267575B2 Temperature measuring device
A temperature measuring device incorporates a fixed point cell to provide an integrated structure. The fixed point cell houses a pure substance within a substantially cylindrical graphite crucible. The pure substance is to be melted to give an absolute temperature. The crucible is enclosed within a sealed metal container. An annular metal tube surrounds the container and the inner wall of the tube is formed by the outer peripheral wall of the container. This provides excellent heat conduction from the interior of the tube to the interior of the crucible. The tube is arranged to define either a heat pipe or a thermal siphon and includes an appropriate vaporizable fluid.
US08267573B2 Food mixer blades with inserts
A mixer apparatus comprising a pair of counter rotating beater blades operating in a rotating bowl for the mixing of food ingredients, in which at least one of the beater blades is provided with inserts which urge small quantities of the food ingredients from a thin distributed layer into a mixable concentration of the ingredients.
US08267572B2 Method for gentle mechanical generation of finely dispersed micro-/nano-emulsions with narrow particle size distribution and device for carrying out said method
This invention relates to a method for the mechanically protective production of finely dispersed micro-/nanoemulsions with narrow droplet size distribution, whereby drops are produced on the surface of a membrane or of a filter fabric, and the drops are detached from the membrane or filter fabric surface by motion of the membrane or of the filter fabric in a first immiscible liquid phase in which pronounced stretching flow components in particular, besides shear flow components, bring about the detachment of the drops formed on the membrane surface especially efficiently and protectively. The invention also relates to a device for implementing the method according to the invention with a membrane or filter unit that is positioned to move, in particular to be able to rotate, in a housing with a gap that may be eccentric toward the inner wall of the housing and/or provided with flow baffles that produce stretching flow components.
US08267571B2 Mixing system and mixing method for medical purposes
A system and a method for making an injectable mixture using at least one first pulverulent component and a second liquid component with a first piston/cylinder arrangement with a cylinder with an axial extension and a piston, wherein the cylinder includes a measured amount of the pulverulent component, a separate reservoir including a corresponding measured amount of the liquid component, and a transfer device for sealed transfer of said amount of the liquid component to the cylinder for subsequent mixing and injection of the completed mixture. The first piston/cylinder arrangement is an injection syringe. A mixing element being manoeuvrable by a user is positioned inside the cylinder. At least one gas transferring channel means leading to the cylinder is arranged at the cylinder. Engagement means are arranged for connecting the first injection syringe to the separate reservoir during transfer of the liquid component.
US08267570B2 Fixed base and lighting device utilizing the same
A fixed base comprises an upper cover comprising an outer canister a top plate and a sidewall. The sidewall encircles the top plate to form a receiving room. An inner canister penetrates the receiving room and is attached to the top plate, which comprises a wall. At least one hatch is defined in the wall, and is connected to the receiving room. A positioning component is set inside the surface of the top plate. A limitation frame comprises a frame body, a connecting block, and a positioning block. The positioning block is slidably connected to the positioning component. At least one groove opposite the hatch is defined in the wall of the frame body, and comprises a sliding groove and a fixing groove connecting with the sliding groove. The fixed base further comprises a driver and a trigger switch.
US08267566B2 Planar lighting device
A planar lighting device comprises: a light guide plate including a concave rectangular light exit plane, two light entrance planes containing two opposite sides of the light exit plane and disposed opposite each other, two symmetrical inclined planes opposing to the light exit plane such that their distance from the light exit plane increases with the increasing distance from the two light entrance planes toward the center of the light exit plane, a curved portion connecting the two inclined planes; two light sources respectively disposed opposite the two light entrance planes for emitting light to enter the light into the light guide plate through the light entrance planes; and sliding mechanisms allowing the light sources to slide in a direction parallel to the light entrance planes of the light guide plate to absorb the expansion and contraction of the light sources along the length thereof.
US08267562B2 Multi-pole circuit breaker light guide trip indicator and installation method
An apparatus, method and system for visually indicating a circuit breaker, such as a multi-pole circuit breaker, has been tripped are provided. An exemplary light guide comprises a plurality of light conduits adapted to transmit light from two or more light sources within a circuit breaker assembly to an exterior of the circuit breaker assembly; a beam that connects the light conduits; and one or more retention features coupled to one or more of the light conduits, wherein each retention feature is adapted to mate with a retention feature interface of the circuit breaker assembly. Numerous other aspects are provided.
US08267559B2 Interior rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle
An interior rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle includes a mirror head having a reflective mirror element, and a mirror mount for attaching the interior rearview mirror assembly to an attachment element attached at an interior portion of the vehicle. When the mirror mount is attached to the attachment element, the reflective mirror element has a field of view rearward of the vehicle. The interior rearview mirror assembly includes a pivot joint enabling a driver of the vehicle to pivotally adjust the mirror head to set the rearward field of view of the reflective mirror element to the driver's desired setting with the interior rearview mirror assembly attached to the attachment element. The interior rearview mirror assembly includes circuitry, and the circuitry comprises at least one of (a) a transmitter for a toll booth transaction function and (b) a receiver for a toll booth transaction function.
US08267552B2 Light-transmissive shell capable of intensifying illuminant and wide-angle light transmission
A light-transmissive shell capable of intensifying an illuminant and wide-angle light transmission includes a lens body and an extension portion integrally extended from the lens body in a vertical direction or at an acute angle to the vertical direction. The lens body includes an outer top surface structured as a convexity and an inner bottom surface structured as a flat surface or an inner concavity. The extension portion includes an inner surface extending around from the inner bottom surface of the lens body. An arcuate surface is formed as a joint between the inner bottom surface of the lens body and the inner surface of the extension portion. The light emitted by an illuminant is intensified through the lens body and guided into a wide-angle light through the extension portion.
US08267549B2 Illumination device
An illumination device includes a cover, a heat-dissipation module, and a plurality of light emitting units. The heat-dissipation module includes a main body and a mounting plate connected to the main body. The mounting plate is received in the interior of the illumination device. The light emitting units are mounted on the mounting plate and opposite to the cover. Light from the light emitting unit is transmitted through the cover.
US08267548B2 Lighting device for a motor vehicle
The invention relates to a lighting device for a motor vehicle. Said lighting device comprises a light source (1; 96) for emitting electromagnetic radiation, in particular light which is visible to the human eye, and a reflector (70; 81; 90) for focusing the emitted light. The light source (1; 96) is fastened on the reflector (70; 81; 90) at least indirectly in a defined position relative to a reflective surface of said reflector. In order firstly to make heat transfer from the reflector (70; 81; 90) to the light source (1; 96) more difficult and secondly to enable EMC shielding by virtue of an electrical contact between the light source (1; 96) and the reflector (70; 81; 90), the invention proposes that a material (72) with poor thermal conductivity is arranged between the reflector (70; 81; 90) and the light source (1; 96) for thermally insulating the light source (1; 96) from the reflector (70; 81; 90). Preferably, the material (72) has a thermal conductivity λ of less than 2 W/mK and a relative permittivity (εr) of greater than 1.