Document Document Title
US08318824B2 Hydrophilic polyolefin sintered body
Disclosed is a hydrophilic polyolefin sintered material which is a water-absorbing sintered material of a polyolefin resin ice having a graft chain composed of at least one molecular chain selected from hydrophilic ethylenically unsaturated group-containing monomers and their polymers. This hydrophilic polyolefin sintered material has an average porosity of 20-80% by volume and an open cell having an average pore diameter of 1-150 μm.
US08318822B2 Vibration damping and sound absorbing material and production process thereof
It is an object of the invention to provide a vibration damping and sound absorbing material containing a plant-derived polyol which material largely contributes a decrease of environmental load and has excellent vibration damping and sound absorbing properties, and it is another object of the invention to provide a production process of the material. Specifically, disclosed is a vibration damping and sound absorbing material which is suitably used for cars. A vibration damping and sound absorbing material comprises a polyurethane foam which comprises, as raw materials, a polyol and/or a polymer-dispersed polyol in which polymer fine particles obtainable by polymerizing an unsaturated bond-containing compound are dispersed in a polyol, and water, a catalyst and a polyisocyanate, wherein the polyol comprises (A) a plant-derived polyol produced using a raw material obtainable by a plant.
US08318821B2 Rigid foamed synthetic resin and process for its production
Provided is a process for producing a rigid foamed synthetic resin, wherein, as a blowing agent, a hydrocarbon compound and water are used, and a rigid foamed synthetic resin provided with dimensional stability, heat insulating properties, and possibly reduced weight can be obtained. The process involves reacting a polyol (P) with a polyisocyanate (I) in the presence of a blowing agent, a foam stabilizer and a catalyst, wherein the blowing agent has at least a C2-8 hydrocarbon compound and water; the polyol (P) has a specific polyesterpolyol (A), a specific polyetherpolyol (B), and a polymer-dispersed polyol (Z) having fine polymer particles (M) dispersed; and the isocyanate index of the polyol (P) and the polyisocyanate (I) is over 200 and at most 400.
US08318820B2 Degradable polyurethane foams
A method of synthesizing of a biocompatible and biodegradable polyurethane foam includes the steps of: mixing at least one biocompatible polyol, water, at least one stabilizer, and at least one cell opener, to form a resin mix; contacting the resin mix with at least one polyisocyanate to form a reactive liquid mixture; and reacting the reactive liquid mixture form a polyurethane foam. The polyurethane foam is preferably biodegradable within a living organism to biocompatible degradation products. At least one biologically active molecule having at least one active hydrogen can be added to form the resin mix.
US08318818B2 Topical composition, topical composition precursor, and methods for manufacturing and using
A tropical composition is provided. The topical composition can be prepared by diluting a topical composition precursor with water and adding additional components, if desired. The topical composition precursor can be prepared by melt processing a hydrophobic polymer composition that includes repeating pyrrolidone/alkylene groups wherein the alkylene groups contain at least 10 carbon atoms, and a hydrophilic polymer composition including repeating carboxylic groups and/or repeating hydroxyl groups. A topical composition precursor and methods for manufacturing and using a topical composition are provided by the invention.
US08318815B2 Method for treatment of tumors using nordihydroguaiaretic acid derivatives
Use of nordihydroguaiaretic derivatives to suppress CDC-2 and survivin, stimulate apoptosis, and treat tumors.
US08318814B2 Glyceryl ether compounds and their use
Glyceryl ether compounds prepared by the reaction of glycerol and olefin epoxides are disclosed. The compounds are renewable biomass-based surfactants useful as detergents and emulsifiers in formulations for cleaning, laundry, personal care, cosmetics, and industrial uses.
US08318812B2 Therapeutic agents for the treatment of lymphoid malignancies
Methods—for treatment and prevention of lymphoid malignancies, including, but not limited to acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), B-cell lymphoma, Acute Myeloid leukemia (AML), and mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). The methods include administration of a therapeutically effective amount of FTY720 (2-Amino-2-[2-(4-octylphenyl)ethyl]propane 1,3-diol hydrochloride) or a derivative, pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, or a prodrug thereof to a subject.
US08318811B2 Method for treating an inflammatory bowel disease using 2-amino-2-[4-(3-benzyloxyphenylthio)-2-chlorophenyl]ethyl-1,3-propanediol or a salt thereof
A novel therapeutic and prophylactic agent for inflammatory bowel diseases and a method for treating inflammatory bowel diseases is provided. The agent comprises a 2-amino-1,3-propanediol derivative (e.g., 2-amino-2-[4-(3-benzyloxyphenylthio)-2-chlorophenyl]ethyl-1,3-propanediol hydrochloride) represented by the chemical formula (1) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or hydrate thereof: The agent is useful in the treatment or prevention of Crohn's disease, Crohn's disease in large intestine, intestinal Behcet's disease, ulcerative colitis, bleeding rectal ulcer and pouchitis.
US08318808B2 Zn2+chelating motif-tethered short-chain fatty acids as a novel class of histone deacetylase inhibitors
Zn2+-chelating motif-tethered fatty acids as histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors. Compounds performed well in in vitro and in vivo tests.
US08318807B2 Pterostilbene cocrystals
Cocrystals of pterostilbene are disclosed, including: pterostilbene:caffeine cocrystal, pterostilbene:carbamazepine cocrystal, pterostilbene:glutaric acid cocrystal, and pterostilbene:piperazine cocrystal. The pterostilbene:caffeine cocrystal is polymorphic. Forms I and II of the pterostilbene:caffeine cocrystal are disclosed. The therapeutic uses of the pterostilbene cocrystals and of pharmaceutical/nutraceutical compositions containing them are also disclosed. The disclosure sets out various methods of making and characterizing the pterostilbene cocrystals.
US08318805B2 Modulation of nitric oxide synthases by betaines
The present invention relates to therapeutic compositions of betaines and L-arginine and physiologically acceptable salts thereof, and to pharmaceutical uses of betaines for up-regulating, enhancing, stimulating, controlling and/or increasing constitutive nitric oxide synthase expression a mammal, particularly in a human. Additionally, the betaines are believed to augment after administration both immunological and functional (activity) expression of Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor (TFPI) in a mammal, particularly a human.
US08318804B2 Antiviral activity of cyclopentene nitro-ester and derivatives
Disclosed is a method of synthesizing new optically pure heterocyclic compounds using Pd(0) catalyzed intramolecular cyclizations. Analogs of cyclopentanes, like isoxazoline-2-oxide and furan, with similar framework to the cyclopentanes act as anti-HIV and anticancer agents which opens a whole new field for application of these compounds. Starting from a meso-diol, optically pure compounds were prepared without utilizing chiral ligands at any stage of the synthesis. The stereochemical outcome of the product (>99% ee) was influenced by desymmetrization catalyzed by Pseudomonas cepacia lipase and the stereo selective nature of the palladium catalyzed transformations.
US08318803B2 EC SOD and use thereof
The present invention relates to an EC SOD and the use thereof. More particularly, the present invention relates to an EC SOD and the use thereof for preventing or treating skin diseases, particularly dermatitis or psoriasis.
US08318799B2 Therapeutic agent for substance dependence
The present invention provides a therapeutic agent for substance dependence, which prevents relapse/recurrence of compulsive substance-taking behavior based on craving for addictive substances such as stimulant substances, opioids, barbiturate type anesthetics, hallucinogens, cocaine, hemp, cannabis, alcohol, or volatile organic solvents. (−)-1-(Benzofuran-2-yl)-2-propylaminopentane or a pharmacologically acceptable acid addition salt thereof is useful as a therapeutic agent for substance dependence, which prevents relapse/recurrence of compulsive substance-taking behavior associated with craving for addictive substances.
US08318798B2 Therapeutic agent for neurodegenerative disease
[Problems] To provide a neuronal cell death inhibitor and a therapeutic agent for a neurodegenerative disease, particularly Parkinson's disease.[Means for Solving Problems] It is known that DJ-1 protein is involved in Parkinson's disease and is capable of inhibiting neuronal cell death caused by oxidative stress. Based on this knowledge, screening is made for a low molecular weight molecule capable of binding to an active site of DJ-1 protein (i.e., a region around a cysteine residue at position-106) using an analysis softwear FastDock (Fujitsu Ltd.). When various tests are made using candidate low molecular weight compounds each having a binding energy of −60 kcal/mol or lower, these compounds show a therapeutic effect on a neurodegenerative disease.
US08318794B2 Method of use of porphyrins in preparing a medicament for sonodynamic therapy and a method of sonodynamic therapy using porphyrins
The invention provides method of use of a porphyrin compound as shown below in preparing a medicament for sonodynamic therapy, and a method of sonodynamic therapy using a porphyrin compound. Said therapy comprises administering a porphyrin compound to a patient and applying sonic wave to the patient, wherein each symbol has the meaning as defined in the description.
US08318793B2 Heterocyclic compounds and their use as glycogen synthase kinase-3 inhibitors
The present invention relates to novel heterocyclic compounds which are useful for inhibiting glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3), methods of making the compounds, compositions containing the compounds, and methods of treatment using the compounds.
US08318788B2 Layered pharmaceutical formulations
In one embodiment a layered pharmaceutical formulation includes two or more pharmaceutical layers and an intermediate layer disposed between at least two of the two or more pharmaceutical layers, the intermediate layer configured to dissolve in vivo to thereby leave the two or more pharmaceutical layers substantially intact. In one embodiment, an active pharmaceutical ingredient in at least one of the pharmaceutical layers is selected from bupropion, zonisamide, naltrexone, topiramate, phentermine, metformin, olanzapine and fluoxetine.
US08318785B2 Pharmaceutical compounds
Compounds of formula (I) exhibit COMT enzyme inhibiting activity and are thus useful as COMT inhibitors.
US08318782B2 Mitotic kinesin inhibitor
A mitotic kinesin Eg5 inhibitor which comprises a thiadiazoline derivative represented by the general formula (I) or a pharmacologically acceptable salt thereof as an active ingredient: [wherein R1 represents a hydrogen atom and the like, R2 represents a hydrogen atom, —C(═W)R6 (wherein W represents an oxygen atom or a sulfur atom, and R6 represents substituted or unsubstituted lower alkyl and the like) and the like, R3 represents —C(═Z)R19 (wherein Z represents an oxygen atom or a sulfur atom, and R19 represents substituted or unsubstituted lower alkyl and the like) and the like, R4 represents substituted or unsubstituted lower alkyl and the like, and R5 represents substituted or unsubstituted aryl and the like] and the like are provided.
US08318781B2 G-protein-conjugated receptor agonist
Disclosed is a novel aralkyl carboxylic acid compound which has an agonistic activity on GPR-120 and/or GPR-40, particularly GPR-120, and is therefore useful as an appetite regulator, an anti-obesity agent, a therapeutic agent for diabetes, a pancreatic beta differentiating cell growth enhancer, a therapeutic agent for metabolic syndrome, a therapeutic agent for a gastrointestinal disease, a therapeutic agent for a neuropathy, a therapeutic agent for a mental disorder, a therapeutic agent for a pulmonary disease, a therapeutic agent for a pituitary hormone secretion disorder or a lipid flavoring/seasoning agent. The aralkyl carboxylic acid compound is represented by the general formula (I). (I) wherein the ring Q represents a pyridyl or the like; R1 represents a C1-6 alkyl group or the like; R2 represents a hydrogen atom, a C1-4 alkyl group or a C1-4 alkoxy group; m and n independently represent an integer of 1 to 5; and X represents an oxygen atom, a sulfur atom or —NR3— [wherein R3 represents a hydrogen atom or a C1-4 alkyl group].
US08318779B2 Lysine related derivatives as HIV aspartyl protease inhibitors
The present invention concerns lysine related derivatives, their use as protease inhibitors, in particular as HIV aspartyl protease inhibitors, processes for their preparation as well as pharmaceutical compositions and diagnostic kits comprising them. The present invention also concerns combinations of the present lysine related derivatives with another anti retroviral agent. It further relates to their use in assays as reference compounds or as reagents.
US08318772B2 Amine compounds and medical uses thereof
The present invention relates to a new amine compound or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein the definitions of X, R1, R2 and n are given in the description, to a pharmaceutical composition containing the compound as active ingredient, and to use of the amine compound or its pharmaceutically acceptable salt for the manufacture of an anti-depressent drug.
US08318769B2 Substituted sulfonamide compounds
Substituted sulfonamide compounds corresponding to formula I: processes for the preparation thereof, pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds, and the use of such substituted sulfonamide compounds in pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment and/or inhibition of pain and other conditions at least partly mediated by the bradykinin 1 receptor.
US08318767B2 Substituted imidazoles as bombesin receptor subtype-3 modulators
Certain novel substituted imidazoles are ligands of the human bombesin receptor and, in particular, are selective ligands of the human bombesin receptor subtype-3 (BRS-3). They are therefore useful for the treatment, control, or prevention of diseases and disorders responsive to the modulation of BRS-3, such as obesity, and diabetes.
US08318762B2 Pyrazolospiroketone acetyl-CoA carboxylase inhibitors
The invention provides compounds of Formula (1) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of said compound, wherein R1, R2, and R3 are as described herein; pharmaceutical compositions thereof; and the use thereof in treating diseases, conditions or disorders modulated by the inhibition of acetyl-CoA carboxylase enzyme(s) in an animal.
US08318759B2 Pyrrolidine derivatives as NK3 receptor antagonists
The present invention relates to a compounds of formula I wherein A, Ar, R, R2, R3, R4, p, and o are as defined in the specification and claims or to a pharmaceutically active salt thereof. The present compounds are high potential NK-3 receptor antagonists for the treatment of depression, pain, psychosis, Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, anxiety and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
US08318751B2 Pyrimidinone derivatives and methods of use thereof
The present invention relates to Pyrimidinone Derivatives, compositions comprising a Pyrimidinone Derivative, and methods of using the Pyrimidinone Derivatives for treating or preventing obesity, diabetes, a metabolic disease, a cardiovascular disease or a disorder related to the activity of GPR119 in a patient.
US08318746B2 Nitrogen-containing five-membered heterocyclic compound
The present invention provides a compound represented by the formula (I): wherein each symbol is as defined in the specification, or a salt thereof. The compound of the present invention has a glucokinase activity, and is useful as a medicament such as an agent for the prophylaxis or treatment of diabetes, obesity and the like, and the like.
US08318741B2 Therapeutic compositions and methods
The present invention relates in general to therapeutic compositions and methods of use. In preferred embodiments, the invention relates to the field of eye health. In some embodiments, the invention relates to the prevention and treatment of macular degeneration by administering compounds disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the invention relates to compositions and methods of improving vision.
US08318740B2 Compounds for protein kinase inhibition
Novel compound having the following formula: Also disclosed are a pharmaceutical compositions comprising the same, methods for treating cancer using the same, and methods for the synthesis of the same. The novel compounds of the present invention are found to inhibit protein kinases, especially Checkpoint kinase Chk1/Chk2.
US08318738B2 Reverse-turn mimetics and method relating thereto
Conformationally constrained compounds that mimic the secondary structure of reverse-turn regions of biologically active peptides and proteins are disclosed. Such reverse-turn mimetic structures have utility over a wide range of fields, including use as diagnostic and therapeutic agents. Libraries containing the reverse-turn mimetic structures of this invention are also disclosed as well as methods for screening the same to identify biologically active members. The invention also relates to the use of such compounds for inhibiting or treating disorders modulated by Wnt-signaling pathway, such as cancer, especially colorectal cancer, restenosis associated with angioplasty, polycystic kidney disease, aberrant angiogenesis disease, rheumatoid arthritis disease, tuberous sclerosis complex, Alzheimer's disease, excess hair growth or loss, or ulcerative colitis.
US08318735B2 2-aminothiazole-4-carboxylic amides as protein kinase inhibitors
The present invention relates to novel Anilinopiperazine Derivatives of formula (I), compositions comprising the Anilinopiperazine Derivatives, and methods for using the Anilinopiperazine Derivatives for treating or preventing a proliferative disorder, an anti-proliferative disorder, inflammation, arthritis, a central nervous system disorder, a cardiovascular disease, alopecia, a neuronal disease, an ischemic injury, a viral disease, a fungal infection, or a disorder related to the activity of a protein kinase.
US08318730B2 Fused hetrocyclic compounds
This invention provides fused heterocyclic compounds, pharmaceutical compositions of the compounds, and methods of using the compounds for the treatment of, inter alia, IL-12 related disease and disorders.
US08318727B2 Polo-like kinase inhibitors
Compounds of the following formula are provided for use with kinases: wherein the variables are as defined herein. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions, kits and articles of manufacture comprising such compounds; methods and intermediates useful for making the compounds; and methods of using said compounds.
US08318723B2 Pyrazine compounds, their use and methods of preparation
The invention provides compounds according to formula (I) their use and methods for preparation wherein A, X, Y, R1, R2 and R3 are defined herein. The compounds of the invention inhibit specific serine/threonine kinases involved in inflammatory processes and aberrant cell proliferation, and are thus useful for treating associated diseases and pathological conditions such as Pim kinase-mediated diseases and pathological conditions involving inflammation, including Chron's disease, inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic inflammatory disease, or aberrant cell proliferation including various cancers.
US08318720B2 Acrylamide derivatives as Fab I inhibitors
In part, the present invention is directed to antibacterial compounds.
US08318718B2 Pyridine and pyrimidine derivatives as phosphodiesterase 10 inhibitors
Pyridine and pyrimidine compounds, and compositions containing them, and processes for preparing such compounds. Provided herein also are methods of treating disorders or diseases treatable by inhibition of PDE10, such as obesity, non-insulin dependent diabetes, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and the like.
US08318717B2 Compounds modifying apoptosis
The present invention relates to compounds capable of inhibiting binding of the Smac protein to Inhibitors of apoptosis (IAPs). Such compounds are preferably capable of inhibiting IAP and thus may promote apoptosis or sensitize cells for apoptosis. The compounds may be used in the treatment of proliferative diseases, such as cancer.
US08318712B2 Concentrated liquid thyroid hormone composition
This invention is directed generally to a liquid pharmaceutical composition comprising at least one thyroid hormone (particularly a composition further comprising at least one cyclodextrin compound), a process for making such a composition, and a method of using such a composition to treat a condition associated with impaired thyroid hormone function.
US08318704B2 Modulation of neural stem cells and neural progenitor cells
The invention relates generally to methods of influencing central nervous system cells to produce progeny useful in the treatment of CNS disorders. More specifically, the invention includes methods of exposing a patient suffering from such a disorder to a reagent that modulates the proliferation, migration, differentiation and survival of central nervous system cells via S1P or LPA signaling. These methods are useful for reducing at least one symptom of the disorder.
US08318700B2 Lung-targeted drugs
Methods and compositions are provided for treating lung diseases, including but not limited to infections and small cell and non-small cell lung cancer, by conjugating a drug of interest to glycerol ethers or glycerol phosphate ethers.
US08318693B2 Compositions and methods for inhibiting expression of mutant EGFR gene
The invention relates to a double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) targeting a mutant Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR), and methods of using the dsRNA to inhibit expression of mutant EGFR.
US08318692B2 Targeting PAX2 for the induction of DEFB1-mediated tumor immunity and cancer therapy
Provided is a method of treating cancer in a subject by inhibiting expression of PAX2. An example of a cancer treated by the present method is prostate cancer. In the cancer treatment methods disclosed, the method of inhibiting expression of PAX2 can be by administration of a nucleic acid encoding an siRNA for PAX2. A method of treating cancer in a subject by administering DEFB1 is also provided. Similarly, provided is a method of treating cancer in a subject by increasing expression of DEFB1 in the subject.
US08318691B2 Treatment of tumors with genetically engineered herpes virus
Disclosed are methods for treating cancer by administering an effective amount of a modified Herpes simplex virus.
US08318686B2 Markers for pre-cancer and cancer cells and the method to interfere with cell proliferation therein
A novel family of human mitochondrial RNAs, referred to as chimeric RNAs, which are differentially expressed in normal, pre-cancer and cancer cells, are described. Oligonucleotides targeted to the chimeric RNAs are provided. The described oligonucleotides or their analogs can be used for cancer diagnostics and cancer therapy as well as for research. In one embodiment of this invention, these oligonucleotides hybridize with the sense or with the antisense mitochondrial chimeric RNAs, and the result of the hybridization is useful to differentiate between normal proliferating cells, pre-cancer cells and cancer cells. In another embodiment of the invention, the compositions comprise oligonucleotides that hybridize with the human chimeric RNAs resulting in cancer cell and pre-cancer cell death, while there is no effect in normal cells, constituting therefore, a novel approach for cancer therapy.
US08318679B2 Trimerising module
The present invention relates to the design of trimeric polypeptides using polypeptide structural elements derived from the tetranectin protein family, and their use in rational de novo design and production of multi-functional molecules including the application of the multi-functional molecules in protein library technology, such as phage display technology, diagnostic and therapeutic systems, such as human gene therapy and imaging. The trimeric polypeptides being constructed as a monomer polypeptide construct comprising at least one tetranectin trimerising structural element (TTSE) which is covalently linked to at least one heterologous moiety, said TTSE being capable of forming a stable complex with two other TTSEs; or as an oligomer which is comprised of two monomer polypeptide constructs as mentioned above, and which comprises three TTSEs or a multiplum of three TTSEs, or which is comprised of three monomer polypeptide constructs.
US08318678B2 Cosmetic compositions
The present invention generally features novel cosmetic skin and hair care compositions for enhancing the appearance of eyelashes and eyebrows. Specifically, the topical skin and hair care compositions of the invention contain a concentration of at least one of pentapeptide-17 tetrapeptide-12 that provide for thicker, longer and more voluminous appearing eyelashes and eyebrows. The cosmetic formulations of the invention may further include cosmetically acceptable vehicle(s) and/or other skin and hair conditioning agents.
US08318673B2 Anti-hemorrhage medication pack
An anti-hemorrhage medication pack for administering an anti-hemorrhage drug, in particular for the treatment of hemorrhage caused by trauma in emergency situations comprises an active ingredient selected from the group comprising the 1-24 amino acid sequence of the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH 1-24) and all its fragments and analogues, and analogues of fragments, with agonist activity on the MC4 melanocortin receptors, and all the synthesis agonists, including those with a nonpeptidic structure, of the MC4 melanocortin receptors. An auto-injector (1; 11) includes the drug for automatically injecting a patient with the drug.
US08318664B2 Unacylated ghrelin fragments as therapeutic agent in the treatment of obesity
A method for treating obesity and more particularly a method for treating diet-induced obesity in a subject comprising administering to said subject an isolated unacylated ghrelin peptide as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1, a fragment thereof or a cyclic fragment thereof such as a cyclic unacylated ghrelin fragment. The method being achievable without affecting the food intake of the subject.
US08318661B2 Candidates against infection
The present invention relates to the use of plasminogen/plasmin and its derivatives as agents for enhancing host defense against infection or other infectious diseases. The invention also relates to a method for screening of compounds which enhance host defense against infection by evaluating the host defense against bacterial arthritis and spontaneous otitis media in an animal model.
US08318650B2 Bis(hydroxyquinoline) metal complexes as bleach catalysts
Bis(hydroxyquinoline)-metal complexes and the use thereof as bleach catalysts are described.
US08318649B2 Cleaning agents comprising a cyclic carbonate
The invention relates to machine dishwashing agents containing specific polycarbonate-, polyurethane-, and/or polyurea-polyorganosiloxane compounds or precursor compounds thereof of the reactive cyclic carbonate and urea type which help to avoid the formation of water spots and filming after the use of the agents and accelerate the drying of dishes.
US08318648B2 Polyether-containing lubricant base stocks and process for making
A lubricant base stock is provided. The base stock is a polyether of a plurality of epoxidized olefin monomeric units. The polyether has 30 carbon atoms or more. There is also a process for making a polyether.
US08318647B2 Production of polyol ester lubricants for refrigeration systems
A poly(neopentylpolyol) ester composition is produced by reacting a neopentylpolyol having the formula: wherein each R is independently selected from the group consisting of CH3, C2H5 and CH2OH and n is a number from 1 to 4, with at least one monocarboxylic acid having 2 to 15 carbon atoms in the presence of an acid catalyst and at an initial mole ratio of carboxyl groups to hydroxyl groups of greater than 0.5:1 to 0.95:1 to form a partially esterified poly(neopentylpolyol) composition. Then the partially esterified poly(neopentylpolyol) composition is reacted with additional monocarboxylic acid having 2 to 15 carbon atoms to form a final poly(neopentylpolyol) ester composition.
US08318646B2 Lubricating oil composition
A lubricating oil composition comprising (A) an oil of lubricating viscosity in a major amount; and, (B) as an additive component in a minor amount, an oil-soluble zinc salt of a dithiophosphoric acid, the dithiophosphoric acid being the reaction product of phosphorus pentasulphide with a mixture of at least one first alcohol of the formula ROH where R is an aliphatic hydrocarbyl group having at least four carbon atoms or is an alkaryl group, and at least one second alcohol which is an ester of a polyhydric alcohol.
US08318645B2 Lubricant composition
The lubricating oil composition of the invention includes a base oil composed of mineral oil and/or synthetic oil, an amine antioxidant (A-1) in an amount of 800 ppm or more as reduced to the total amount of nitrogen, and a compound containing phosphorus and/or sulfur (A-2). The invention provides a compressor oil which realizes thermal/oxidation stability, resistance to sludge formation, lubricity, long service life, and water separation at high levels.
US08318636B2 Compositions and methods for improving rice growth and restricting arsenic uptake
Methods according to the invention administering one or more rice rhizosphere isolates to a plant, particularly a rice plant, to the seed of the plant, or to soil surrounding the plant in an amount effective to inhibit infection by a plant pathogen, particularly rice blast, to increase the biomass of the plant, and/or to decrease arsenic uptake by the plant.
US08318634B2 Thermal transfer image-receiving sheets
The present invention relates to a resin for use in a thermal transfer image-receiving sheet which is excellent in dyeability with dyes and releasability of the sheet, a resin dispersion using the resin, and a thermal transfer image-receiving sheet. The resin for a thermal transfer image-receiving sheet is obtained by addition polymerizing and condensation polymerizing (a) raw monomers of a polyester, (b) a raw monomer of an addition polymer-based resin containing at least one compound selected from the group consisting of styrene and styrene derivatives and (c) at least one dually reactive monomer selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid and derivatives of these acids, wherein the raw monomers (a) of a polyester include an alcohol component containing 80 mol % or more of an alkyleneoxide adduct of 2,2-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)propane.
US08318632B2 Exhaust gas purification catalyst
An exhaust gas purification catalyst includes a substrate, and a first catalyst layer formed on the substrate, the first catalyst layer containing palladium and/or platinum and alumina doped with an alkaline-earth metal element. The exhaust gas purification catalyst has a correlation coefficient ρAl,AE given by the following formula of 0.75 or more: ρ Al , AE = C Al , AE σ Al ⁢ σ AE . ( 1 )
US08318629B2 Platinum group metal-free catalysts for reducing the ignition temperature of particulates on a diesel particulate filter
A catalyzed diesel particulate filter (CDPF) and a method for filtering particulates from diesel engine exhaust are provided, where the catalyzed diesel particulate filter includes a substrate and a catalyst composition, where the catalyst composition contains at least one first component, at least one second component, and at least one third component, where the first component is at least one first component selected from the group consisting of cerium and a lanthanide and mixtures thereof, the at least one second component is selected from the group consisting of cobalt, copper, manganese and mixtures thereof; and the third component comprises strontium, where the first component, the second component, and the third component are in an oxide form after calcination. The catalyst on the catalyzed diesel particulate filter lowers the temperature at which particulates are removed from the CDPF by oxidizing the particulates on the filter. The catalyzed diesel particulate filter may also include a washcoat. Washcoats prepared from colloidal aluminum oxide may have higher surface areas and pore volumes loadings than washcoats containing aluminum oxide prepared from aluminum nitrate.
US08318626B2 Internal and external donor compounds for olefin polymerization catalysts III
The present invention relates to solid catalyst components comprising titanium, magnesium, halogen and an internal electron donor compound containing at least one 1,8-naphthyl diester compound. The 1,8-naphthyl diester compounds include naphthalene-1,8-diyl dicycloalkanecarboxylate derivatives, dicycloalkenecarboxylate derivatives, 8-(cycloalkanecarbonyloxy)naphthalene-1-yl benzoate derivatives, and 8-(cycloalkenecarbonyloxy)naphthalene-1-yl benzoate derivatives. The present invention further relates to catalyst systems containing the catalyst solid components, organoaluminum compounds, and organosilicon compounds. The present invention also relates to methods of making the solid catalyst components and the catalyst systems, and methods of polymerizing or copolymerizing alpha-olefins using the catalyst systems.
US08318620B2 Glass yarns capable of reinforcing organic and/or inorganic materials
The invention relates to a glass yarn capable of being obtained by a method consisting of mechanically drawing molten glass threads flowing from orifices disposed at the base of a die, of which the chemical composition is substantially free from boron oxide and comprises the following constituents within the limits defined hereinafter expressed in percentages by weight: SiO240 to 50 Al2O318 to 28 CaO4 to 15 MgO0 to 6 Na2O10 to 14 Na2O + K2O + Li2O13 to 20 It also relates to composites containing such yarns.
US08318613B2 Composition for manufacturing SiO2 resist layers and method of its use
The present invention relates to compositions, which are useful for the generation of patterned or structured SiO2-layers or of SiO2-lines during the manufacturing process of semiconductor devices, and which are suitable for the application in inkjet operations. The present invention also relates to a modified process of manufacturing semiconductor devices taking advantage of these new compositions.
US08318610B2 Method for thin film device with stranded conductor
Provided is a thin film device and an associated method of making a thin film device. For example, fabrication of an inverter thin film device is described. Moreover, a parallel spaced electrically conductive strips are provided upon a substrate. A functional material is deposited upon the conductive strips. A 3D structure is then provided upon the functional material, the 3D structure having a plurality of different heights, at least one height defining a first portion of the conductive strips to be bundled. The 3D structure and functional material are then etched to define a TFD disposed above the first portion of the conductive strips. The first portion of the conductive strips is bundled adjacent to the TFD.
US08318607B2 Immersion lithography wafer edge bead removal for wafer and scanner defect prevention
A method of performing a single step/single solvent edge bead removal (EBR) process on a photolithography layer stack including a photoresist layer and a top coat layer using propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate (PGMEA) or a mixture of PGMEA and gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) is disclosed. The single step/single solvent EBR process is compatible with organic and inorganic BARC layers.
US08318606B2 Dielectric etching
An etchant for dielectrics, such as silicon dioxide, that leaves monocrystalline silicon surface exposed by the etchant free of etch damage, such as etch pits, when the etch is done in the presence of transition metals, such as copper, tungsten, titanium, gold, etc. The etchant comprises hydrofluoric acid and a source of halide anion, such as hydrochloric acid or a metal-halide. The etchant is useful in microelectromechanical system device fabrication and in deprocessing integrated circuits or the like.
US08318605B2 Plasma treatment method for preventing defects in doped silicon oxide surfaces during exposure to atmosphere
Formation of BPSG surface defects upon exposure to atmosphere is prevented by a plasma treatment method for converting boron and/or phosphorus materials separated from silicon near the surface of the doped glass layer to gas phase compounds. The treatment plasma is generated from a treatment process gas containing one of (a) a fluorine compound or (b) a hydrogen compound.
US08318603B2 Method of forming patterns for semiconductor device
Provided is a method of forming patterns for a semiconductor device in which fine patterns and large-width patterns are formed simultaneously and adjacent to each other. In the method, a first layer is formed on a substrate so as to cover a first region and a second region which are included in the substrate. Both a blocking pattern covering a portion of the first layer in the first region and a low-density large-width pattern covering a portion of the first layer in the second region are simultaneously formed. A plurality of sacrificial mask patterns are formed on the first layer and the blocking pattern in the first region. A plurality of spacers covering exposed sidewalls of the plurality of sacrificial mask patterns are formed. The plurality of sacrificial mask patterns are removed. The first layer in the first and second regions are simultaneously etched by using the plurality of spacers and the blocking pattern as etch masks in the first region and using the low-density large-width pattern as an etch mask in the second region.
US08318596B2 Pillar structure having a non-planar surface for semiconductor devices
A conductive pillar for a semiconductor device is provided. The conductive pillar is formed such that a top surface is non-planar. In embodiments, the top surface may be concave, convex, or wave shaped. An optional capping layer may be formed over the conductive pillar to allow for a stronger inter-metallic compound (IMC) layer. The IMC layer is a layer formed between solder material and an underlying layer, such as the conductive pillar or the optional capping layer.
US08318591B2 Nonvolatile memory device with dielectric layer formed on control gate sidewall along lateral direction
Patterns of a nonvolatile memory device include a semiconductor substrate that defines active regions extending in a longitudinal direction, an isolation structure formed between the active regions, a tunnel insulating layer formed on the active regions, a charge trap layer formed on the tunnel insulating layer, a first dielectric layer formed on the charge trap layer and the isolation structure, wherein the first dielectric layers is extended along a lateral direction, a control gate layer formed on the first dielectric layer, wherein the control gate layer is extended along the lateral direction, and a second dielectric layer formed on a sidewall of the control gate layer along the lateral direction and coupled to the first dielectric layer.
US08318587B2 Method for manufacturing semiconductor device
It is an object to provide a method for manufacturing an SOI substrate in which reduction in yield can be suppressed while impurity diffusion into a semiconductor film is suppressed. A semiconductor substrate provided with an oxide film is formed by thermally oxidizing the surface of the semiconductor substrate. Plasma is generated under an atmosphere of a gas containing nitrogen atoms and plasma nitridation is performed on part of the oxide film, so that a semiconductor substrate in which an insulating film containing nitrogen atoms is formed over the oxide film is obtained. After bonding the insulating film containing nitrogen atoms and a glass substrate to each other, the semiconductor substrate is split, whereby an SOI substrate in which the insulating film containing nitrogen atoms, the oxide film, a thin semiconductor film are stacked in this order is formed.
US08318585B2 Bonding method and bonding apparatus
To facilitate bonding of articles at a low temperature without degrading electrical contact between the articles.An oxide film reducing treatment with hydrogen radicals is carried out for surfaces of lead-out electrodes (5) and bump electrodes (6) on the lead-out electrodes (5) of a semiconductor chip (2) and surfaces of lead-out electrodes (8) of an intermediate substrate (3), and, after that, the bump electrodes (6) of the semiconductor chip (2) and the lead-out electrodes (8) of the intermediate substrate (3) are aligned with each other. After that, a pressure is applied to bond the bump electrodes (6) and the lead-out electrodes (8).
US08318580B2 Isolating wire bonding in integrated electrical components
An electrical component includes a semiconductor layer having a first conductivity type and a interconnect layer disposed adjacent to a frontside of the semiconductor layer. At least one bond pad is disposed in the interconnect layer and formed adjacent to the frontside of the semiconductor layer. An opening formed from the backside of the semiconductor layer and through the semiconductor layer exposes at least a portion of the bond pad. A first region having a second conductivity type extends from the backside of the semiconductor layer to the frontside of the semiconductor layer and surrounds the opening. The first region can abut a perimeter of the opening or alternatively, a second region having the first conductivity type can be disposed between the first region and a perimeter of the opening.
US08318578B2 Method of forming capacitors
A method of forming a capacitor includes providing material having an opening therein over a node location on a substrate. A shield is provided within and across the opening, with a void being received within the opening above the shield and a void being received within the opening below the shield. The shield comprises a nitride. Etching is conducted within the opening through the nitride-comprising shield. After the etching, a first capacitor electrode is formed within the opening in electrical connection with the node location. A capacitor dielectric and a second capacitor electrode are formed operatively adjacent the first capacitor electrode. Other aspects and implementations are contemplated.
US08318577B2 Method of making a semiconductor device as a capacitor
Forming a capacitor structure includes forming a first dielectric layer over a conductive region, wherein the first dielectric layer has a first conductive layer at a top surface of the first dielectric layer; forming a first opening in the first dielectric layer over the conductive region, wherein the first opening exposes a first sidewall of the first conductive layer; forming a second conductive layer within the first opening, wherein the second conductive layer contacts the first sidewall of the first conductive layer; removing a portion of the second conductive layer from the bottom of the first opening; forming an insulating layer within the first opening; removing a portion of the insulating layer from the bottom of the first opening; extending the first opening through the first dielectric layer to expose the conductive region; and filling the first opening with a conductive material, wherein the conductive material contacts the conductive region.
US08318576B2 Decoupling capacitors recessed in shallow trench isolation
A semiconductor process and apparatus provide a shallow trench isolation capacitor structure that is integrated in an integrated circuit and includes a bottom capacitor plate that is formed in a substrate layer below a trench opening, a capacitor dielectric layer and a recessed top capacitor plate that is covered by an STI region and isolated from cross talk by a sidewall dielectric layer.
US08318574B2 SOI trench DRAM structure with backside strap
In one exemplary embodiment, a semiconductor structure including: a SOI substrate having of a top silicon layer overlying an insulation layer, the insulation layer overlies a bottom silicon layer; a capacitor disposed at least partially in the insulation layer; a device disposed at least partially on the top silicon layer, where the device is coupled to a doped portion of the top silicon layer; a backside strap of first epitaxially-deposited material, at least a first portion of the backside strap underlies the doped portion of the top silicon layer, the backside strap is coupled to the doped portion of the top silicon layer at a first end of the backside strap and to the capacitor at a second end of the backside strap; and second epitaxially-deposited material that at least partially overlies the doped portion of the top silicon layer, the second epitaxially-deposited material further at least partially overlies the first portion.
US08318572B1 Inexpensive electrode materials to facilitate rutile phase titanium oxide
This disclosure provides a method of fabricating a semiconductor stack and associated device, such as a capacitor and DRAM cell. In particular, a bottom electrode has a material selected for lattice matching characteristics. This material may be created from a relatively inexpensive metal oxide which is processed to adopt a conductive, but difficult-to-produce oxide state, with specific crystalline form; to provide one example, specific materials are disclosed that are compatible with the growth of rutile phase titanium dioxide (TiO2) for use as a dielectric, thereby leading to predictable and reproducible higher dielectric constant and lower effective oxide thickness and, thus, greater part density at lower cost.
US08318570B2 Enhancing MOSFET performance by optimizing stress properties
A device and method for improving performance of a transistor includes gate structures formed on a substrate having a spacing therebetween. The gate structures are formed in an operative relationship with active areas fainted in the substrate. A stress liner is formed on the gate structures. An angled ion implantation is applied to the stress liner such that ions are directed at vertical surfaces of the stress liner wherein portions of the stress liner in contact with the active areas are shielded from the ions due to a shadowing effect provided by a height and spacing between adjacent structures.
US08318569B2 Forming memory cells comprising impurity doping regions along edges of less than 1F spacing
Provided are methods of forming a semiconductor device, the method including: forming an insulation region on a substrate region, and an active region on the insulation region; patterning the active region to form an active line pattern; forming a gate pattern to surround an upper portion and lateral portions of the active line pattern; separating the gate pattern into a plurality of sub-gate regions, and separating the active line pattern into a plurality of sub-active regions, in order to form a plurality of memory cells that are each formed of the sub-active region and the sub-gate region and that are separated from one another; and forming first and second impurity doping regions along both edges of the sub-active regions included in each of the plurality of the memory cells, wherein the forming of the first and second impurity doping regions comprises doping lateral portions of the sub-active regions via a space between the memory cells.
US08318563B2 Growth of group III nitride-based structures and integration with conventional CMOS processing tools
A method includes forming a non-continuous epitaxial layer over a semiconductor substrate. The substrate includes multiple mesas separated by trenches. The epitaxial layer includes crystalline Group III nitride portions over at least the mesas of the substrate. The method also includes depositing a dielectric material in the trenches. The method could also include forming spacers on sidewalls of the mesas and trenches or forming a mask over the substrate that is open at tops of the mesas. The epitaxial layer could also include Group III nitride portions at bottoms of the trenches. The method could further include forming gate structures, source and drain contacts, conductive interconnects, and conductive plugs over at least one crystalline Group III nitride portion, where at least some interconnects and plugs are at least partially over the trenches. The gate structures, source and drain contacts, interconnects, and plugs could be formed using standard silicon processing tools.
US08318556B2 Method and system for continuous line-type landing polysilicon contact (LPC) structures
A method for making contact landing pad structures in a semiconductor integrated circuit device includes forming an isolation region and forming active regions in the semiconductor substrate. The active regions are separated by the isolation region, and each of the active regions includes one or more contact regions. The method includes forming a raised structure overlying the isolation region and disposed between a first and second contact regions. The method includes depositing a cap layer and forming an interlayer dielectric layer overlying the cap layer. The method includes depositing a photoresist layer overlying the interlayer dielectric layer and uses a mask pattern to selectively remove a portion of the photoresist layer to form a line type opening, which exposes a portion of the interlayer dielectric layer overlying at least the first and second contact regions. The method deposits a conductive fill material and performs a planarization process to form multiple conductive landing contact pads.
US08318552B2 Method for forming gate structures
A process for forming gate structures is described. A web comprises a substrate, a plurality of conductive elements disposed on the substrate, and a conductive anodization bus. The web is moved through an anodization station to form a plurality of gate structures comprising a plurality of gate dielectrics adjacent to a plurality of gate electrodes. A process for forming electronic devices further providing a semiconductor, a source electrode, and a drain electrode is described.
US08318546B2 Thermal management of electronic devices
Thermal management is provided for a device. The device may include a substrate having a mounting area on a first surface of the substrate. The device may also include first thermal vias extending from the mounting area to at least an interior of the substrate. The device may also include at least one thermal plane substantially parallel to the first surface of the substrate, the at least one thermal plane being in thermal contact with at least one of the first thermal vias. The device may also include a heat sink attachment area, and second thermal vias extending from the heat sink attachment area to the interior of the substrate, the at least one thermal plane being in thermal contact with the second thermal vias.
US08318542B2 Contact spring application to semiconductor devices
A contact spring applicator is provided which includes an applicator substrate, a removable encapsulating layer and a plurality of contact springs embedded in the removable encapsulating layer. The contact springs are positioned such that a bond pad on each contact spring is adjacent to an upper surface of the removable encapsulating layer. The contact spring applicator may also include an applicator substrate, a release layer, a plurality of unreleased contact springs on the release layer and a bond pad at an anchor end of each contact spring. The contact spring applicators apply contact springs to an integrated circuit chip, die or package or to a probe card by aligning the bond pads with bond pad landings on the receiving device. The bond pads are adhered to the bond pad landings. The encapsulating or release layer is then removed to separate the contact springs from the contact spring applicator substrate.
US08318536B2 Utilizing aperture with phase shift feature in forming microvias
A method, comprises drilling a set of one or more microvias in a semiconductor package with an aperture, wherein drilling the set of microvias comprises to use an aperture that has a phase shift region to reduce a spot size of a drilling beam that is used to form the set of microvias.
US08318532B2 Enhancing performance characteristics of organic semiconducting films by improved solution processing
Improved processing methods for enhanced properties of conjugated polymer films are disclosed, as well as the enhanced conjugated polymer films produced thereby. Addition of low molecular weight alkyl-containing molecules to solutions used to form conjugated polymer films leads to improved photoconductivity and improvements in other electronic properties. The enhanced conjugated polymer films can be used in a variety of electronic devices, such as solar cells and photodiodes.
US08318525B2 Gas sensing device
A device for sensing a gas comprises a plastics housing (106, 107) moulded in situ around at least one portion of a conducting lead frame (100), the housing defining an enclosure (113) and being provided with means for enabling gas flow into the enclosure. A gas sensitive element (114) within the enclosure (113) is mounted to the conducting lead frame (100). The conducting lead frame (100) comprises connection leads which are accessible through, and at least partially encapsulated by, the wall of the housing.
US08318522B2 Surface passivation techniques for chamber-split processing
Surface passivation techniques for chamber-split processing are described. A method includes forming a first Group III-V material layer above a substrate, the first Group III-V material layer having a top surface. A passivation layer is deposited on the top surface of the Group III-V material layer. The passivation layer is removed. Subsequently, a second Group III-V material layer is formed above the first Group III-V material layer.
US08318521B2 Organic light emitting display and method of manufacturing the same
A top emission organic light emitting display and a method of manufacturing the same. The organic light emitting display includes a substrate, a plurality of thin film transistors (TFT) on the substrate, a plurality of first electrodes coupled to the plurality of TFTs, auxiliary electrodes having a mesh structure defining areas where the plurality of first electrodes are located, a pixel defining layer on a substantially entire area of the substrate and patterned to expose the first electrodes and the auxiliary electrodes, an organic light emission layer on the substantially entire area of the substrate including the exposed first electrodes and auxiliary electrodes, and second electrodes on the organic light emission layer. Steps are formed at lower parts of the auxiliary electrodes, and the second electrodes are coupled to the auxiliary electrodes through contact regions in which the auxiliary electrodes are exposed due to the steps.
US08318514B2 LED package, and mold and method of manufacturing the same
The present disclosure provides a light emitting diode (LED) package, which includes a first substrate with electrodes disposed on a top thereof and a second substrate with an LED chip disposed on a top thereof. The LED chip is connected with the electrodes via wires. A first package layer is disposed on the top of the first substrate to cover the wires and electrodes. A fluorescent layer is disposed on the top of the second substrate to cover the LED chip. The present disclosure also provides a mold and a method of manufacturing the LED package.
US08318506B2 Dialysis adapter cell and method of release testing of a disperse dosage form
A dialysis adapter cell includes a housing comprising a plurality of pillars extending between and attached to a top plate and a bottom plate to form a hollow receptacle, wherein the top plate comprises an aperture configured to provide access to the hollow receptacle; a dialysis membrane disposed about the housing and sealingly engaged to the top plate and the bottom plate; and a platform in physical communication with the bottom plate and configured to position the dialysis adapter cell in a sample holder of a United States Pharmacopoeia dissolution apparatus 4 flow-through cell.
US08318504B2 MRP2 efflux pathway prognostic method
In one aspect a method of determining the functional activity of the MRP2 and/or MRP3 efflux pathway of a human or animal subject, comprises: (i) determining the level of a bile acid derivative in the blood of said human or animal subject at a predetermined time interval after introducing an amount of the bile acid derivative into the subject; and (ii) using the determination obtained in step (i) to indicate the functional activity of the MRP2 and/or MRP3 efflux pathway of the subject.
US08318499B2 System for managing inventories of reagents
A system for managing the inventory of reagents for a laboratory automation system. The system for managing the inventory of reagents comprises a controller, software for the controller, and a refrigerator capable of refrigerating reagents, detecting the presence or absence of reagents in the refrigerator, and detecting the location of reagents in the refrigerator. The system for managing the inventory of reagents is connected to a laboratory automation system. The laboratory automation system comprises at least one clinical analyzer. A typical system for managing inventories of reagents includes an operator interface for the loading of boxes of reagents and other supplies, radio frequency identification system for identification of inventory and tracking, robotic mechanisms for loading containers onto the track system and removing containers from the track system, de-capping equipment, refrigeration equipment, and information technology connections to laboratory analyzers and vendors.
US08318497B2 Reversible, parallel and multitask cloning method and kit
The present invention is related to a reversible, parallel and/or multitask cloning method and kit, which improve the cloning of (preferably multiple) genetic element(s) in a nucleic acid construct such as vector or in chromosome of a cell and the rapid and efficient selection of said construct with a correct integration of said genetic element(s) either in vitro or in vivo.
US08318496B2 Compounds and methods for improving cellular uptake of oligomeric compounds
The present invention provides method of optimizing the efficacy and potency of antisense drugs. In certain embodiments, the invention provides assays useful for determining favorable oligonucleotide characteristics and excipeints for improved cellular uptake.
US08318494B2 Genetic material and chromosomal processing and manipulation methods
The presently claimed invention applies to a genetic material processing and manipulation method and related product. The claimed invention relates to a method for changing the inherited characteristics of a cell through chromosome processing treatment. In a preferred embodiment, ‘genomic surgery’ is applied to source genetic material 101. Micro-beam cutting takes place on target genetic material 103, which is moved by way of micro-beam transport to a destination location adjacent to desired target genetic material 105. Source and target genetic material are welded during a micro-beam welding step, resulting in a combined or new chromosome combination 125. The combined or new chromosome combination 125 is transferred into receptor cell by three ways. The presently claimed invention provides a high quality alternate approach to directed genetic recombination without requiring the use of restriction enzymes and is used for chromosomal repair, removal of defects and new organism creation.
US08318492B2 Method for determining the cell culture history of a cell unit labeled with more than one type of tag
The present invention relates in one aspect to a method for determining the cell culture history of a cell unit labelled with more than one type of tag comprising the steps of: (a) measuring one or more parameters of each tag that is used to label the cell unit; (b) identifying each tag in the cell unit; and (c) correlating the identity of each tag to the identity of the cell unit and/or the specific cell culture conditions to which the cell unit has been exposed.
US08318491B2 Method of differentiating hematopoietic stem cells into natural killer cells using YC-1 or IL-21
The present invention relates to an agent for differentiating hematopoietic stem cells into natural killer cells and a method for the differentiation, more precisely an agent for differentiating hematopoietic stem cells into natural killer cells comprising YC-I [3-(5′-hydroxymethyl-2′-furyl)-1-benzylindazole] or IL-21 (Interleukin-21) as an active ingredient and a method for differentiating hematopoietic stem cells into natural killer cells using the same. The YC-I and IL-21 regulate the differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells into natural killer cells and increase the killing activity of NK cells. Therefore, the agent for NK cell differentiation of the present invention can be effectively used for cell therapy for the treatment of cancer by regulating the differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells into natural killer cells having tumor cell killing activity.
US08318487B2 Materials and methods relating to the production and maintenance of cell lines
The invention provides methods for maintaining cell lines from primary cells, i.e. non-transformed cells, using expression of the signal transducer of activation and transcription (STAT). The methods are particularly suitable for the maintenance of B-cells.
US08318484B2 Isolated renal cells and uses thereof
The invention is directed to isolated renal cells, including tubular and erythropoietin (EPO)-producing kidney cell populations, and methods of isolating and culturing the same, as well as methods of treating a subject in need with the cell populations.
US08318482B2 VCP-based vectors for algal cell transformation
Provided herein are exemplary vectors for transforming algal cells. In exemplary embodiments, the vector comprises a Violaxanthin-chlorophyll a binding protein (Vcp) promoter driving expression of an antibiotic resistance gene in an algal cell. Embodiments of the invention may be used to introduce a gene (or genes) into the alga Nannochloropsis, such that the gene(s) are expressed and functional. This unprecedented ability to transform Nannochloropsis with high efficiency makes possible new developments in phycology, aquaculture and biofuels applications.
US08318472B2 Optimized nucleic acid sequences for the expression of VB4-845
An optimized nucleic acid sequence encoding the immunoconjugate VB4-845 is disclosed. Modifications to the original VB4-845 nucleic acid sequence include optimization of the sequences encoding the VH region, VL region, linkers and pseudomonas exotoxin A. The modifications improved the yield of VB4-845 in an Escherichia coli expression system.
US08318470B2 Subtilases
The present invention relates to novel JP170 like subtilases from wild-type bacteria, hybrids thereof and to methods of construction and production of these proteases. Further, the present invention relates to use of the claimed subtilases in detergents, such as a laundry or an automatic dishwashing detergent.
US08318467B2 Inhibitors of GSK-3 and crystal structures of GSK-3β protein and protein complexes
The present invention relates to inhibitors of GSK-3 and methods for producing these inhibitors. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising the inhibitors and methods of utilizing those compositions in the treatment and prevention of various disorders, such as diabetes and Alzheimer's disease. In addition, the invention relates to molecules or molecular complexes which comprise binding pockets of GSK-3β or its homologues. The invention relates to a computer comprising a data storage medium encoded with the structure coordinates of such binding pockets. The invention also relates to methods of using the structure coordinates to solve the structure of homologous proteins or protein complexes. The invention relates to methods of using the structure coordinates to screen for and design compounds that bind to GSK-3β protein or homologues thereof. The invention also relates to crystallizable compositions and crystals comprising GSK-3β protein or GSK-3β protein complexes.
US08318464B2 Biofuel production
Methods, enzymes, recombinant microorganism, and microbial systems are provided for converting polysaccharides, such as those derived from biomass, into suitable monosaccharides or oligosaccharides, as well as for converting suitable monosaccharides or oligosaccharides into commodity chemicals, such as biofuels. Commodity chemicals produced by the methods described herein are also provided. Commodity chemical enriched, refinery-produced petroleum products are also provided, as well as methods for producing the same.
US08318463B2 Δ8 desaturases and their use in making polyunsaturated fatty acids
The present invention relates to Δ8 desaturase genes, which have the ability to convert eicosadienoic acid (EDA; 20:2 ω-6) to dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA; 20:3 ω-6) and/or eicosatrienoic acid (ETrA; 20:3 ω-3) to eicosatetraenoic acid (ETA; (20:3 ω-3). Isolated nucleic acid fragments and recombinant DNA constructs comprising such fragments encoding Δ8 desaturases along with a method of making long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) using these Δ8 desaturases in oleaginous yeast are disclosed.
US08318461B2 Enzyme compositions for the improved enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose and methods of using same
A process for the enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose to produce a hydrolysis product comprising glucose from a pretreated lignocellulosic feedstock and enzymes for use in the process are provided. The process comprises hydrolyzing an aqueous slurry of a pretreated lignocellulosic feedstock with cellulase enzymes, one or more than one β-glucosidase enzyme and a binding agent for binding the β-glucosidase enzyme to fiber solids present in the aqueous slurry. During the hydrolysis, both the cellulase enzyme and β-glucosidase enzyme bind to the fiber solids. The hydrolysis is performed in a solids-retaining hydrolysis reactor so that unhydrolyzed fiber solids and bound enzyme are retained in the reactor longer than the aqueous phase of the slurry.
US08318460B2 Haplotype analysis
The present invention provides an efficient way for high throughput haplotype analysis. Several polymorphic nucleic acid markers, such as SNPs, can be simultaneously and reliably determined through multiplex PCR of single nucleic acid molecules in several parallel single molecule dilutions and the consequent statistical analysis of the results from these parallel single molecule multiplex PCR reactions results in reliable determination of haplotypes present in the subject. The nucleic acid markers can be of any distance to each other on the chromosome. In addition, an approach wherein overlapping DNA markers are analyzed can be used to link smaller haplotypes into larger haplotypes. Consequently, the invention provides a powerful new tool for diagnostic haplotyping and identifying novel haplotypes.
US08318459B2 Glucosyl stevia composition
Glucosyl stevia compositions are prepared from steviol glycosides of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni. The glucosylation was performed by cyclodextrin glucanotransferase using the starch as source of glucose residues. The short-chain glucosyl stevia compositions were purified to >95 % content of total steviol glycosides. The compositions can be used as sweetness enhancers, flavor enhancers and sweeteners in foods, beverages, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
US08318453B2 Conversion systems for biomass
The efficient production of ethanol from low-cost biomass (e.g., corn, sugar beets, sugar cane, switchgrass and/or paper) has become increasingly important in making ethanol competitive with gasoline and decreasing the United States' dependence on foreign oil. For example, to reduce the cost of transporting biomass to ethanol production facilities, mobile systems for producing ethanol from biomass are provided. Also provided are small-scale ethanol production facilities. For example, instead of transporting biomass to the production facility, the facility is transported to the biomass or is located nearby the source of the biomass. The ethanol production facilities or components thereof may be transported via land, water, or air. Production of other products, such as hydrocarbons, natural gas, hydrogen gas, plastics, polymers, and proteins, can also be made by the methods and facilities. Any product described herein can be made in finished form or un-finished form and moved, e.g., to a fixed facility, e.g., fixed production facility.
US08318449B2 Method of measuring the activity of lipid-modified enzyme
It is intended to provide an assay method whereby the activity of a lipid-modifying enzyme can be conveniently measured over a wide range and a drug capable of controlling a lipid-modifying enzyme with the use of this assay method. The above problem can be solved by, for example, a method of measuring the activity of a lipid-modifying enzyme which comprises the steps of (I) preparing a lipid micelle containing a biotinylated lipid and a substrate for the lipid-modifying enzyme; (II) bringing the lipid micelle prepared in the above step (I) into contact with the lipid-modifying enzyme; and (III) evaluating the activity of the lipid-modifying enzyme by applying an evaluation method using the proximity effect to the product obtained in the above step (II).
US08318447B2 Use of bitter taste receptor to screen for compounds that offset the bitter taste of chlorogenic lactone containing coffee compositions
The present invention relates to the discovery that specific human taste receptors in the T2R taste receptor family respond to particular bitter compounds, i.e., chlorogenic lactone compounds that contribute at least partially to the bitter taste of many coffee beverages. The present invention further relates to the use of these receptors in assays for identifying ligands that modulate the activation of these taste receptors by chlorogenic lactones and related compounds and which may be used as additives and/or removed from foods, beverages and medicinals in order to modify (block) T2R-associated bitter taste. A preferred embodiment is the use of the identified compounds as additives in coffee and coffee-flavored foods, beverages and medicinals.
US08318443B2 Reagent for detecting an analyte
A reagent for use in detecting an analyte comprises a fluorescent energy donor and an energy acceptor, wherein the energy acceptor is of the general formula: and wherein the distance between the energy donor and the energy acceptor of the reagent is capable of modulation by a suitable analyte to be detected.
US08318441B2 Fibrinogen alpha and hemoglobin polypeptides as cancer markers
The present invention provides methods of detecting cancer using biomarkers.
US08318438B2 Aptamer-based assays
We describe examples using aptamers for capturing and reporting the presence of a target, such as a pathogen. Examples described here include a set of aptamers that are specific to F. tularensisis. Other examples described here include an Aptamer-Linked Immobilized Sorbent Assay (ALISA) and dot blot assay. An example of a method provided here comprises: providing a set of DNA sequences that exhibit high binding affinity to target antigen, placing the DNA sequences in a sandwich aptamer-linked immobilized sorbent assay (ALISA), contacting the DNA sequences with a sample, and detecting whether the target is present in the sample. Some alternative implementations may include dot blots and different reporters. Quantum dot sandwich assays and quantum dot de-quenching reporters can be used.
US08318433B2 Methods and compositions for tagging and identifying polynucleotides
The invention provides methods and compositions for attaching oligonucleotide tags to polynucleotides for the purpose of carrying out analytical assays in parallel and for decoding the oligonucleotide tags of polynucleotides selected in such assays. Words, or subunits, of oligonucleotide tags index submixtures in successively more complex sets of submixtures (referred to herein as “tiers” of submixtures) that a polynucleotide goes through while successive words are added to a growing tag. By identifying each word of an oligonucleotide tag, a series of submixtures is identified including the first submixture that contains only a single polynucleotide, thereby providing the identity of the selected polynucleotide. The analysis of the words of an oligonucleotide tag can be carried out in parallel, e.g. by hybridization of the oligonucleotide tag to its tag complement on an addressable array; or such analysis can be carried out serially by successive hybridizations of labeled word complements.
US08318428B2 Real-time PCR point mutation assays for detecting HIV-1 resistance to antiviral drugs
Disclosed are compositions including primers and probes, which are capable of interacting with the disclosed nucleic acids, such as the nucleic acids encoding the reverse transcriptase or protease of HIV as disclosed herein. Thus, provided is an oligonucleotide comprising any one of the nucleotide sequences set for in SEQ ID NOS:1-89, and 96-104. Also provided are the oligonucleotides consisting of the nucleotides as set forth in SEQ ID NOS:1-89, and 96-104. Each of the disclosed oligonucleotides is a probe or a primer. Also provided are mixtures of primers and probes and for use in RT-PCR and primary PCR reactions disclosed herein. Provided are methods for the specific detection of several mutations in HIV. Mutations in both the reverse transcriptase and the protease of HIV can be detected using the methods described herein.
US08318427B2 Use of acid scavengers for the synthesis of standard length and long-mer nucleic acid arrays
Protective groups which may be cleaved with an activatable deprotecting reagents are employed to achieve a highly sensitive, high resolution, combinatorial synthesis of pattern arrays of diverse polymers. In preferred embodiments of the instant invention, the activatable deprotecting reagent is a photoacid generator and the protective groups are DMT for nucleic acids and tBOC for amino acids. This invention has a wide variety of applications and is particularly useful for the solid phase combinatorial synthesis of polymers.
US08318425B2 Inhibition of HIV-1 replication by disruption of the processing of the viral capsid-spacer peptide 1 protein
Inhibition of HIV-1 replication by disrupting the processing of the viral Gag capsid (CA) protein (p24) from the CA-spacer peptide 1 (SP1) protein precursor (p25) is disclosed. Amino acid sequences containing a mutation in the Gag p25 protein, with the mutation resulting in a decrease in the inhibition of processing of p25 to p24 by dimethylsuccinyl betulinic acid or dimethylsuccinyl betulin, polynucleotides encoding such mutated sequences and antibodies that selectively bind such mutated sequences are also included. Methods of inhibiting, inhibitory compounds and methods of discovering inhibitory compounds that target proteolytic processing of the HIV Gag protein are included. In one embodiment, such compounds inhibit the interaction of the HIV protease enzyme with Gag by binding to the Gag proteolytic cleavage site rather than to the protease enzyme. In another embodiment, viruses or recombinant proteins that contain mutations in the region of the Gag proteolytic cleavage site can be used in screening assays to identify compounds that target proteolytic processing.
US08318424B2 High-throughput RNA structure analysis
The presently disclosed subject matter relates to technology and methods for analyzing the structure of RNA molecules. More particularly, the presently disclosed subject matter is directed to methods of, compositions for, and computer program products for RNA structure analysis through alkoxide-selective 2′-hydroxyl acylation analyzed by primer extension.
US08318423B2 Methods and compositions for detecting rhinoviruses
The invention provides methods and compositions for rapid, sensitive, and highly specific nucleic acid-based (e.g., DNA based) detection of human rhinovirus (HRV) in a sample. In general, the methods involve detecting a target nucleic acid having a target sequence of a conserved 5′ untranslated region of the HRV genome. The invention also features compositions, including primers, probes, and kits, for use in the methods of the invention.
US08318421B2 Hepatitis-C virus testing
New styles of hepatitis C virus (HCV), referred to as HCV-3 and HCV-4, have been identified and sequenced. Antigenic regions of HCV-2, HCV-3 and HCV-4 polypeptides have been identified. Immunoassays for HCV and antibodies thereto are described, which allow more complete screening of blood samples for HCV, and allow HCV genotyping.
US08318419B2 Antiviral screening method to identify inhibitors of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate [PI(4,5)P2] binding to the HIV gag matrix (MA) protein
The present invention provides for testing methods to determine an effective testing agent that affects the activity of the HIV Gag protein at the plasma membrane of a cell, and specifically, effecting changes in the structural conformation of at least one fatty acid of PI(4,5)P2, a member of a family of differentially phosphorylated phosphatidylinositides, wherein inhibition of the extension of such fatty acid into the MA domain of the Gag protein reduces binding of Gag to the plasma membrane, thereby inhibiting virus particle assembly and subsequent replication of the HIV virus.
US08318418B2 Determination of testosterone by mass spectrometry
Provided are methods for determining the presence or amount of testosterone in a test sample, comprising ionizing all or a portion of the testosterone present in the sample to produce one or more testosterone ions that are detectable in a mass spectrometer. All or a portion of the testosterone present in the sample is ionized to produce one or more testosterone ions, which may be isolated and fragmented to produce precursor ions. A separately detectable internal testosterone standard can be provided in the sample. In a preferred embodiment, the reference is 2,2,4,6,6-d5 testosterone.
US08318408B2 Method of forming patterns of semiconductor device
In a method of forming patterns of a semiconductor device, a semiconductor substrate defining photoresist patterns formed over a target etch layer is provided. An auxiliary layer is formed over the semiconductor substrate and the photoresist patterns. The auxiliary layer formed on a surface of the photoresist patterns is denatured into first auxiliary patterns. A photoresist film is formed over the semiconductor substrate, the first auxiliary patterns, and the auxiliary layer. The auxiliary layer formed below the photoresist film is denatured into a second auxiliary pattern. Here, the auxiliary layer remains only between the photoresist patterns. Etch mask patterns, including the photoresist patterns and the auxiliary layer, are formed by removing the photoresist film and the first and second auxiliary patterns.
US08318404B2 Salt and photoresist composition containing the same
A salt represented by the formula (a1): wherein Q1 and Q2 each independently represent a fluorine atom or a C1-C4 perfluoroalkyl group, X1 represents —CO—O—Xa1— or —CH2—O—Xa2— wherein Xa1 and Xa2 independently each represent a C1-C15 alkylene group and one or more —CH2— in the alkylene group can be replaced by —O— or —CO—, Y1 represents a C3-C36 alicyclic hydrocarbon group or a C6-C24 aromatic hydrocarbon group, and the alicyclic hydrocarbon group and the aromatic hydrocarbon group can have one or more substituents, and one or more —CH2— in the alicyclic hydrocarbon group can be replaced by —O— or —CO—, and Z+ represents an organic cation.
US08318395B2 Dibenzoanthracene compound and organic light emitting device having the same
Provided is a novel dibenzo[a,c]anthracene compound having substituents, which can be used in an organic light emitting device.
US08318391B2 Process window signature patterns for lithography process control
A method for identifying process window signature patterns in a device area of a mask is disclosed. The signature patterns collectively provide a unique response to changes in a set of process condition parameters to the lithography process. The signature patterns enable monitoring of associated process condition parameters for signs of process drift, analyzing of the process condition parameters to determine which are limiting and affecting the chip yields, analyzing the changes in the process condition parameters to determine the corrections that should be fed back into the lithography process or forwarded to an etch process, identifying specific masks that do not transfer the intended pattern to wafers as intended, and identifying groups of masks that share common characteristics and behave in a similar manner with respect to changes in process condition parameters when transferring the pattern to the wafer.
US08318389B2 Image sensor photo mask and apparatus
A method for fabricating an image sensor includes forming an insulation layer over a substrate in a logic circuit region and a pixel region, forming a photoresist over the insulation layer, patterning the photoresist to form a photoresist pattern where the insulation layer in the pixel region is exposed and the insulation layer in the logic circuit region is not exposed, wherein a thickness of the photoresist pattern is gradually decreased in an interfacial region between the pixel region and the logic circuit region in a direction of the logic circuit region to the pixel region, and performing an etch back process over the insulation layer and the photoresist pattern in conditions that an etch rate of the photoresist pattern are substantially the same as that of the insulation layer.
US08318388B2 Mask blank providing system, mask blank providing method, mask blank transparent substrate manufacturing method, mask blank manufacturing method, and mask manufacturing method
A mask blank manufacturing department manufactures a mask blank by forming a thin film to be a mask pattern on a mask blank transparent substrate. When providing the mask blank to a mask manufacturing department, the mask blank manufacturing department provides optical characteristic information (transmittance variation) of the mask blank transparent substrate and optical characteristic information (transmittance variation and/or phase difference variation) of the mask blank to the mask manufacturing department. The optical characteristic information of the mask blank transparent substrate is provided to the mask blank manufacturing department from a materials processing department that manufactures mask blank transparent substrates.
US08318386B2 Fabrication of nanostructured devices
Embodiments of the invention relate to methods useful in the fabrication of nanostructured devices for optics, energy generation, displays, consumer electronics, life sciences and medicine, construction and decoration. Instead of nanostructuring using colloids of particles, special vacuum deposition methods, laser interference systems (holography), and other low-throughput limited surface area techniques, we suggest to use nanotemplate created by novel nanolithography method, “Rolling mask” lithography. This method allows fast and inexpensive fabrication of nanostructures on large areas of substrate materials in conveyor-type continuous process. Such nanotemplate is then used for selective deposition of functional materials. One of embodiments explains deposition of functional materials in the exposed and developed areas of the substrate. Another embodiment uses selective deposition of the functional material on top of such template. Alternatively, nanotemplate is deposited and patterned on functional material, and then used as an etch mask to transfer nanostructure into the functional material using dry or wet etching process.
US08318384B2 Anode catalyst and methods of making and using the same
The present disclosure relates to an ion conductive material useful as an anode catalyst comprising LaCrO3, a vanadium oxide (VOx) and a solid electrolyte, and methods of making the same. The catalysts are useful in solid oxide fuels cells and, in particular, using impure hydrogen.
US08318383B2 Fuel cell reaction layer
Disclosed is a fuel cell reaction layer which is excellent in durability and heat resistance while having a low operation temperature. In addition, supply of an oxygen gas to the fuel cell reaction layer is hardly disturbed. Also disclosed are a fuel cell and a method for producing such a fuel cell reaction layer. Specifically disclosed is a fuel cell reaction layer wherein a mixed conductive catalyst is used. The mixed conductive catalyst includes a conductive carrier composed of an electron conductor formed of carbon and a proton conductor formed of an inorganic material. The electron conductor is an inorganic material comprising a polymerized and carbonized organic monomer: the proton conductor is an inorganic material, and the electron conductor and the proton conductor are bonded together. In addition, a water-repellent carbon is further blended in this fuel cell reaction layer.
US08318382B2 Fuel cell electrode containing proton conductive inorganic oxide
According to one embodiment, a catalyst layer of an electrode for a fuel cell has a proton conductive inorganic oxide containing an oxide superacid compound. The compound contains an element X (Titanium, Zirconium, Silicon, Tin, Hafnium, Germanium, Gallium, Indium, Cerium, Niobium or Aluminum) and an element Y (Tungsten, Molybdenum, Chromium, Boron or Vanadium). The catalyst layer also contains a reduction-oxidation metal catalyst or a carrier carrying a reduction-oxidation metal catalyst.
US08318381B2 Device and method for enhanced air circulation
A wireless communication device (200) and method (300) adapted to prolong the useful life of an energy storage device is disclosed. In its simplest form, it can include: detecting (310) a first threshold of an energy conversion module comprising at least one of a temperature threshold, oxygen threshold, voltage, a current threshold, a power threshold and moisture threshold; sensing (320) a temperature in proximity to a thermal module comprising at least one of a fuel tank, an electronic computing module, and a housing; and generating (330) an air stream based on the detected first threshold (310) and the sensed temperature (320). The device (200) and method (300) can automatically and dynamically manage, for example, temperature, oxygen and/or moisture of an energy storage module, to maintain the energy storage module within desired specifications and tolerances. This can help to prolong the useful life of the energy storage module and its components and help to maintain a maximum recharging capacity.
US08318379B2 Membrane-electrode assembly for mixed reactant fuel cell and mixed reactant fuel cell system including same
A membrane-electrode assembly for a mixed reactant fuel cell and a mixed reactant fuel cell system including the same. In one embodiment of the present invention, a membrane-electrode assembly for a mixed reactant fuel cell includes an anode catalyst layer, a cathode catalyst layer, a polymer electrolyte membrane disposed between the anode catalyst layer and the cathode catalyst layer, an electrode substrate disposed on at least one of the anode catalyst layer or the cathode catalyst layer, and an oxidant supply path penetrating the polymer electrolyte membrane, the anode catalyst layer, the cathode catalyst layer, and the electrode substrate and adapted to supply an oxidant.
US08318378B2 Fuel cell and fuel cell fastening device
A fuel cell (10) includes a fuel cell stack (50) in which a plurality of fuel cell units are stacked on one another, a pair of end plates (61, 61b, 63, 63b) respectively contact both ends of the fuel cell stack in a direction (Ds) in which the plurality of fuel cell units are stacked, and a side member (62, 62b, 62g) that extends in the stacking direction and is disposed between the end plates. The fuel cell further includes a connecting bolt portion, having a bolt shank (644, 624g) that penetrates one of the end plates substantially along the stacking direction. The connecting bolt portion connects the one of the end plates and the side member. The fuel cell further includes a cushion joint (66, 66a, 66b, 66c, 66d, 66e, 66f) disposed between the side member and one of the end plates, and through which the bolt shank passes.
US08318374B2 Fuel cell comprising oxygen electrode with surface nanostructure
An oxygen electrode used in the fuel cell and includes a plurality of carbon particles, a carbon thin-film, and surface nanostructure. The carbon particles are bonded to one another with the carbon thin-film, and the surface nanostructure is formed on the surface of the carbon thin-film. The surface nanostructure comprises catalyst nanoparticles made of platinum (Pt) and carbon nanoparticles. According to this combination of these elements, the catalyst nanoparticles are confined within three-dimensional structure to be formed by the carbon nanoparticles and are immobilized without losing space which allows any reactant to be accessed to the surface of the catalyst nanoparticles.
US08318372B2 Fuel cell stack and vehicle equipped with fuel cell system
A fuel cell stack in accordance with the invention has a cell laminate obtained by stacking multiple plates with at least one of functions of a power generation assembly and a separator, and a pair of end plates located outside and on both ends of the cell laminate in a stacking direction. The fuel cell stack further includes a displacement preventing member extended along the stacking direction of the cell laminate and fastened to the pair of end plates, and a deformable intermediate material located between the cell laminate and the displacement preventing member over an area of two or more plates among the multiple plates. At least either one of the two or more plates and the displacement preventing member is designed to have a concavo-convex shape formed at least partially on a face in contact with the intermediate material. Such a simple structure of the fuel cell stack effectively enhances the resistance against an inertial force acting in an in-plane direction that is perpendicular to the stacking direction.
US08318367B2 Electrochemical energy generating apparatus and operating method thereof, and electrochemical device
An electrochemical energy generation device includes an electrochemical device such as a fuel cell having an electrolyte film arranged between an anode and a cathode and a reference electrode maintained at an oxidation-reduction potential between an metal and a metal ion and arranged in contact with the electrolyte film. The electrochemical energy generation device is operated by measuring a potential of the anode and the cathode based on the reference electrode, deciding the operation condition such as a fuel supply amount to the electrochemical device according to the result of the potential measurement of the anode and the cathode, and selling the operation condition such as the fuel supply amount according to the decision, by an operation condition setting unit. An operation method of the device and an electrochemical device constituting the device are also provided.
US08318365B2 Fuel cell system with bypass path and operation method for controlling bypass path of fuel cell system
A fuel cell system of the present invention comprises a fuel cell (1) configured to generate electric power using a fuel gas, a fuel gas generator (2) configured to generate a fuel gas containing hydrogen using a raw material, a combustion burner (2a) configured to heat the fuel gas generator, a combustion fan (2b) configured to supply air to a combustion burner (2a), and a controller (101). The raw material is filled inside the fuel cell (1) before the fuel gas is supplied to the fuel cell. The controller (101) controls on-off valves (8, 9) to cause the fuel gas to branch to flow to a second path (R2) and to a fourth path (R4) when the fuel gas generated in the fuel gas generator (2) starts to be supplied to the fuel cell (1).
US08318353B2 Method for making electrode active materials
The present invention is directed to a method for making electrode active materials represented by the general formula: Aa(VO)bXO4, wherein: (a) A is an alkali metal or mixture of alkali metals, and 0
US08318342B2 All solid-state polymer battery
An all solid-state polymer battery uses: 1) a lithium based negative electrode active material including crystal grains and crystal grain boundaries, wherein at least part of the crystal grain boundaries are exposed on a surface of the lithium-based negative electrode active material, and the area of the exposed surface of the crystal grain boundaries is 0.02 to 0.5 cm2 per square centimeter of surface; 2) a dry polymer electrolyte including a specific ethylene glycol ether, a polymer containing electron-donating oxygen atoms in the skeleton, and a lithium salt; or 3) an amorphous lithium nitride layer formed between the negative electrode and the polymer electrolyte. This reduces the resistance at the interface between the negative electrode and the polymer electrolyte, thereby providing an all solid-state polymer battery with high capacity and excellent cycle characteristics. This also suppresses an increase in internal resistance during storage, thereby providing an all solid-state polymer battery with excellent high-rate discharge characteristics after storage.
US08318337B2 Battery including electrode lead having high resistant portion
A battery includes an electrode assembly including a first electrode and a second electrode, a non-aqueous electrolyte, a battery case, a first lead connecting the first electrode with a bottom of the battery case, a seal member sealing an opening of the battery case, and a second lead connecting the second electrode with the seal member. At least one of the first lead and the second lead has a high resistant portion that has a higher resistance than the other portions per unit length. The high resistant portion is disposed at a position of the first lead closer to the first electrode than the portion connected to the bottom of the battery case or at a position of the second lead closer to the second electrode than the portion connected to the seal member. The high resistant portion is in contact with the battery case or the seal member.
US08318336B2 Rechargeable battery
A rechargeable battery includes an electrode assembly having positive and negative electrodes and a separator interposed between the positive and negative electrodes. Each of the positive and negative electrodes has an active material coated part and an active material uncoated part. A case receives the electrode assembly, the case being provided with an opening through which the electrode assembly is inserted therein. A cap plate is coupled to the opening. An electrode terminal is coupled to a through-hole formed on the cap plate and protrudes out of the case. A current collector has a flange part with a cross-sectional area greater than the through-hole and a contacting part which connects the current collector to the active material uncoated part.
US08318332B2 Magnetic recording medium, method for fabricating the same, and magnetic storage device
A discrete track medium and a patterned medium that are excellent in both magnetic recording properties and corrosion resistance are realized. The medium has a magnetic recording layer, which includes a magnetic region formed in a projection portion of a projection/recess pattern over a substrate and a filler region embedded in a recess portion of the projection/recess pattern, and an organic compound, which exhibits corrosion inhibition action for cobalt or cobalt alloys, between the magnetic region and the filler region.
US08318329B2 Radiation-selective absorber coating, absorber tube and process for production thereof
The radiation-selective absorber coating (20) has two barrier layers (24a, 24b), an IR-reflecting layer (21) arranged thereon, an absorption layer (22) arranged above the IR-reflecting (21) and an antireflection layer (23) over the absorption layer (22). The absorber tube (13) is a steel tube (1) with the radiation-selective absorber coating (20) applied to the outside thereof. In the process of coating the absorber tube (13) a first oxide barrier layer (24a) is applied to a steel tube by thermal oxidation; a second barrier layer (24b) is then applied by physical gas phase deposition of silicon with supply of oxygen; the IR-reflecting layer (21) is then applied by gas phase deposition of gold, silver, platinum or copper; the absorption layer (22) is then applied by deposition of aluminum and molybdenum; and a final antireflection layer (23) is applied by deposition of silicon with supply of oxygen.
US08318327B2 Low contamination components for semiconductor processing apparatus and methods for making components
Components of semiconductor processing apparatus are formed at least partially of erosion, corrosion and/or corrosion-erosion resistant ceramic materials. Exemplary ceramic materials can include at least one oxide, nitride, boride, carbide and/or fluoride of hafnium, strontium, lanthanum oxide and/or dysprosium. The ceramic materials can be applied as coatings over substrates to form composite components, or formed into monolithic bodies. The coatings ca protect substrates from physical and/or chemical attack. The ceramic materials can be used to form plasma exposed components of semiconductor processing apparatus to provide extended service lives.
US08318325B2 Anthracene derivatives and organic electronic device using same
The present invention provides a novel anthracene derivatives and an organic electronic device using the same. The organic electronic device according to the present invention shows excellent properties in terms of efficiency, a driving voltage, and a life span.
US08318324B2 Organic electroluminescence device and anthracene derivative
An anthracene derivative having a specific asymmetric structure is provided. The asymmetric anthracenes are useful in an organic electroluminescence device and exhibit efficient light emission and a long performance lifetime.
US08318323B2 Polycyclic compounds and organic electroluminescence device employing the same
Provided are a polycyclic compound of a compound having such a structure that two benzene rings bond to a central benzene ring each other to form a fused ring and another fused ring bonds to a terminal thereof, and an organic electroluminescence device including one or more organic thin film layers containing a light emitting layer between a cathode and an anode, in which at least one of the organic thin film layers includes the polycyclic compound of the present invention. The organic electroluminescence device has high luminous efficiency, no defect in pixels, and long lifetime. In addition, provided is a polycyclic compound realizing the organic electroluminescence device.
US08318312B2 Heat treatable coated article with zinc-doped zirconium based layer(s) in coating
In certain example embodiments, a coated article includes a Zn-doped zirconium based layer before heat treatment (HT). The coated article is heat treated sufficiently to cause the Zn-doped zirconium based layer to transform into a Zn-doped zirconium oxide based layer that is scratch resistant and/or chemically durable. The doping of the layer with Zn has been found to improve scratch resistance and/or corrosion resistance.
US08318309B2 Benzylated aminopropylated alkylenediamines and uses thereof
The present invention provides epoxy curing agent compositions comprising benzylated aminopropylated alkylenediamine compounds. Amine-epoxy compositions and articles produced from these amine-epoxy compositions are also disclosed.
US08318308B2 Single-walled carbon nanotube and aligned single-walled carbon nanotube bulk structure, and their production process, production apparatus and application use
This invention provides an aligned single-layer carbon nanotube bulk structure, which comprises an assembly of a plurality of aligned single-layer carbon nanotube and has a height of not less than 10 μm, and an aligned single-layer carbon nanotube bulk structure which comprises an assembly of a plurality of aligned single-layer carbon nanotubes and has been patterned in a predetermined form. This structure is produced by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of carbon nanotubes in the presence of a metal catalyst in a reaction atmosphere with an oxidizing agent, preferably water, added thereto. An aligned single-layer carbon nanotube bulk structure, which has realized high purify and significantly large scaled length or height, its production process and apparatus, and its applied products are provided.
US08318307B2 Electrochemical depositions applied to nanotechnology composites
A method of improving the material properties of a composite by electrodepositing various polymers, organic compounds or inorganic compounds onto each individual carbon (graphite) fiber strand, whether individual fiber or as a fabric to form an homogeneous chemically-bonded composite as opposed to the formation of a heterogeneous, non-chemically bonded composite. Thus, electrodeposition forms a unique discrete interface at the molecular layer (nanolayer) between the reinforcement (fiber) and the matrix (resin) over as opposed to any previous resin infusion process.
US08318305B2 Resin composition
A resin composition comprising a fiber component and a resin component, whereinthe fiber component is (A) a surface-treated fiber (component A) which comprises 100 parts by weight of a fiber comprising a polyalkylene terephthalate and/or a polyalkylene naphthalene dicarboxylate (component Af) and 0.1 to 10 parts by weight of a sizing agent having a glass transition point of −80° C. or higher and lower than 70° C. and adhered to the surface of the fiber (component Ac); andthe resin component comprises (B) an ethylene-based copolymer containing a glycidyl group (component B), (C) a modified polyolefin resin modified with an unsaturated carboxylic acid and/or an unsaturated carboxylic acid derivative (component C), and (D) a polyolefin resin having a melt flow rate of 40 to 200 g/10 min (component D), except for the components C and D, the content of the component D being 30 to 850 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the component A, and the total content of the components B and C being 5 to 630 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the component A,and a molded article thereof.
US08318301B2 Antireflection film, polarizing plate and image display device
Provided is an antireflection film including, in the following order: a transparent support; at least one antiglare layer or diffusive layer containing a transparent resin and light-transmissive resin particles; and a low-refractivity layer having a refractive index lower than that of any of the transparent support and the antiglare layer or diffusive layer, wherein the transparent resin is formed by curing a mixture containing (A) a polyfunctional (meth)acrylate having at least two (meth)acryloyl groups, and (B) a modified polyfunctional (meth)acrylate modified through addition of any of ethylene oxide, propylene oxide or caprolactone, and the light-transmissive resin particles contain (C) high-crosslinking light-transmissive particles which are so high-crosslinking as to have a residual monomer content of at most 2.0% and which have a compression strength of from 39 to 98 N/mm2.
US08318296B2 Composite article
A composite includes a first preform and a second preform spaced from and in overlying relationship to the first preform. The second preform defines at least one first opening extending therethrough along an axis transverse to the first preform. A first surface layer is disposed adjacent to the second preform and on an opposite side of the second preform from the first preform. A polymeric composition including the reaction product of an isocyanate component and an isocyanate-reactive component is disposed between the first preform and the second preform. The polymeric composition adheres the first surface layer to the second preform through the at least one first opening. The surface layer is adhered to the second preform during molding of the composite article and in the absence of additional adhesive, thereby reducing production time and cost of the composite article.
US08318294B2 Optical film, process for producing the same, and polarization plate utilizing the film
An optical film that even in the event of aging (storage) of optical film formed into thin film and large width in the form of lengthy roll, is free from the danger of sticking failure and protrusion failure attributed to uplift of the film due to local film friction; a process for producing such an optical film; and a polarization plate utilizing the optical film. The optical film is one of large width containing a plasticizer, produced by a solution casting process, wherein the value (X) calculated by formula (1) from the value (A) measured by TOF-SIMS with respect to the plasticizer lying in the surface-side central area of the optical film and the value (B) measured by TOF-SIMS with respect to the amount of plasticizer lying in the backside central area of the optical film is different from the value (X′) calculated by formula (2) from the value (A′) measured by TOF-SIMS with respect to the amount of plasticizer lying in the surface-side two lateral edge portions of the optical film and the value (B′) measured by TOF-SIMS with respect to the amount of plasticizer lying in the backside two lateral edge portions of the optical film, and wherein the value (X) is smaller than the value (X′).
US08318293B2 Coated cutting tool insert
The present invention relates to a CVD-coated cutting tool insert with a TiCxNy-layer with a low tensile stress level of from about 50 to about 390 MPa and an α-Al2O3-layer with a high surface smoothness with a mean Ra<0.12 μm as measured by AFM-technique. This is obtained by subjecting the coating to an intensive wet blasting operation.
US08318289B2 Coated polymeric substrates having improved surface smoothness suitable for use in flexible electronic and opto-electronic devices
A composite film comprising a heat-stabilised, heat-set, oriented poly(ethylene naphthalate) substrate, and a coating layer having a surface; wherein said substrate exhibits one or more of: (i) a shrinkage at 30 mins at 230° C. of less than 1%; and/or (ii) a residual dimensional change ΔLr measured at 25° C. before and after heating the substrate from 8° C. to 200° C. and then cooling to 8° C., of less than 0.75% of the original dimension; and/or (iii) a coefficient of linear thermal expansion (CLTE) within the temperature range from −40° C. to +100° C. of less than 40×10−6/° C.; and wherein the surface of said coating layer exhibits an Ra value of less than 0.6 nm, and/or an Rq value of less than 0.8 nm, the thickness of the substrate is between 50 and 250 μm and wherein the number of surface peaks in the range 300 to 600 nm per 5 cm2 area (N(300-600)) of the film is less than 50.
US08318286B2 Gas catalysts comprising porous wall honeycombs
Embodiments of the invention pertain to a catalyst, which may be used in a catalytic converter for treating a gas stream containing pollutants. In an embodiment, the catalyst comprises a substrate having a plurality of axially enclosed channels defined by the porous wall elements extending between an inlet end and an outlet end. Washcoat particles are disposed substantially within the pores of the walls, and the surfaces of the wall elements have a porous, rough texture after coating with the washcoat and substantially no fillets formed on the channels.
US08318285B1 Article for absorbing fluids
An article for absorbing fluids that includes a backing sheet and an absorption sheet, wherein the absorption sheet is made of a material that is capable of absorbing any oil based liquid, and wherein the backing sheet is at least partly affixed to the absorption sheet; at least one first fastener means, wherein the first fastener means includes an attachment means on the bottom side and a mating attachment means on the top side, and wherein the bottom side of the first fastener means is at least partly affixed to a top side of the absorption sheet; and one or more malleable strips positioned along at least a portion of a length of the article.
US08318283B2 Blow mold and backfill manufacturing process
Disclosed embodiments may include methods for forming a foam product comprising forming a skin and inserting a bracket at least partially into the skin. Another embodiment method for manufacturing a foam product may comprise sealing a tube of material in a cavity of a mold, blowing air into the tube of material to form a skin comprising an interior surrounded by a wall, cutting an incision in the skin wall, inserting a bracket through the incision and into the skin interior, filling the skin interior with foam, and curing the foam. Disclosed embodiments may further include foam product comprising a skin with an interior surrounded by a wall, a bracket within the skin interior, a foam substantially filling the skin interior and securing the bracket in place, a recessed region configured to mate with a mounting assembly on a chair, and an incision in the skin wall, the incision positioned outside of the recessed region.
US08318282B2 Microstructured antimicrobial film
A microstructured antimicrobial film, an antimicrobial film assembly, a method of protecting a surface from microbial contamination, and a method of making a microstructured antimicrobial film. The microstructured antimicrobial film can include a substrate having a first side that includes a first major surface, a plurality of microstructured wells defined in the first side of the substrate, and an antimicrobial material positioned within at least some of the plurality of wells. Each of the plurality of wells can be at least partially defined by a base that is spaced a distance from the first major surface of the substrate. The antimicrobial material can be positioned, such that an upper surface of the antimicrobial material is spaced a distance from the first major surface of the substrate. The antimicrobial film assembly can include a roll or a stack of microstructured antimicrobial films.
US08318281B2 Laminated paper article and paper web
An absorbent laminated paper article is a rectangular sheet having first parallel edges in a first direction, second parallel edges in a second perpendicular direction and an article area delimited by the edges. The article includes at least two plies adhesively bonded in a bonding pattern between the plies. The bonding pattern includes bonding elements arranged along a first set of bonding lines extending from one of the first parallel edges to the other of first parallel edges in a first direction at a first angle to the first direction and along a second set of bonding lines extending from the one of first parallel edges to the other of first parallel edges in a second direction at a second angle to the first direction, the first set of bonding lines intersecting with the second set and forming an intermeshing network of bonding lines.
US08318272B1 Decorative tubular art form and method of assembly thereof
A system and method by which new or recycled paper is rolled and assembled to form artwork is herein disclosed. The art form comprises a plurality of pre-rolled or flat pieces of paper that are rolled and formed into tubes. These tubes are then taped to hold them together, and if desired, folded inwardly at end portions for aesthetic purposes. Next, the tubes are arranged in a two-layer matrix forming an initial panel and secured using plastic wire ties. The panels are then layered and joined using the wire ties to form various finished designs. When completed, the art assembly comprises various abstract pieces of art being flat, non-flat, three-dimensional, or the like, that can be hung on a wall, stood upon a floor, or suspended from a ceiling. It is envisioned that the art form may be provided using recycled paper from catalogues and magazines to provide lively colors and brightly colored pattern that is also ecologically friendly. It is envisioned that the art form is to be sold in a kit format with the paper in a flat form to be rolled by the final user. The kit would be packaged with a suitable number of wire ties, common adhesive tape, and instructions for producing one (1) or more pieces of artwork.
US08318270B2 Liquid crystal display panel and method of manufacturing the liquid crystal display panel
A liquid crystal display (“LCD”) panel includes a first substrate including a pixel electrode defining pixel areas, a first alignment layer disposed on the pixel electrode and a first reactive mesogen layer disposed on the first alignment layer, a second substrate including a common electrode layer disposed on an entire portion of the second substrate facing the first substrate, a second alignment layer disposed on the common electrode layer and a second reactive mesogen layer disposed on the second alignment layer, and a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first and second substrates and including a first liquid crystal compound represented by Chemical Formula 1, a second liquid crystal compound represented by Chemical Formula 2 and a third liquid crystal compound represented by Chemical Formula 3:
US08318269B2 Induction for thermochemical processes, and associated systems and methods
Induction for thermochemical processes, and associated systems and methods are disclosed. A method in accordance with a particular embodiment includes placing first and second substrates in a reactor, with each substrate having a surface facing toward the other. Method can further include directing a precursor gas into the reactor and activating an induction coil proximate to the facing surfaces of the substrates to dissociate the precursor gas. A constituent of the precursor gas is deposited on both the first and second surfaces, and heat radiated from each surface and/or a constituent deposited on the surface is received at the other surface and/or the constituent deposited on the other surface.
US08318268B2 AA stacked graphene-diamond hybrid material by high temperature treatment of diamond and the fabrication method thereof
There is provided a fabrication method for an AA stacked graphene-diamond hybrid material by converting, through a high temperature treatment on diamond, a diamond surface into graphene. According to the present invention, if various types of diamond are maintained at a certain temperature having a stable graphene phase (approximately greater than 1200° C.) in a hydrogen gas atmosphere, two diamond {111} lattice planes are converted into one graphene plate (2:1 conversion), whereby the diamond surface is converted into graphene in a certain thickness, thus to fabricate the AA stacked graphene-diamond hybrid material.
US08318267B2 Method and apparatus for forming silicon oxide film
An object to be processed which has silicon on its surface is loaded in a processing chamber. A plasma of a processing gas containing oxygen gas and nitrogen gas is generated in the processing chamber. The silicon on the surface of the object to be processed is oxidized by the plasma, thereby forming a silicon oxide film.
US08318265B2 Plasma mediated processing of non-conductive substrates
Methods for improving coating or etching uniformity of non-conductive substrates in plasma-mediated processes generally include applying an electrically conductive coating to the non-conductive substrate prior to plasma processing. The electrically conductive coating is disposed in electrical communication with a metallic electrode of a plasma reactor. By disposing a conductive layer on the non-conductive substrate, a uniform electric potential is created during plasma processing can be built up on the non-conductive, which is equivalent to that of the metallic electrode upon which it is disposed during plasma processing.
US08318264B2 Process for functionalizing a glass reinforcement for composite material
Process for surface functionalization of a glass reinforcement, characterized in that the said reinforcements are chemically modified by means of surface treatment by the action of a homogeneous plasma at atmospheric or sub-atmospheric pressure in a controlled, oxidizing or nitriding gas atmosphere, and in that the said surface portion is contacted with an aqueous impregnating solution of an organic or inorganic matrix, or directly with the matrix.
US08318263B2 Method for coating an object with a graft polymer layer
Described herein is a method for coating an object with a polymer layer. The method includes contacting the object with a first solution comprising a non-polymeric grafting initiator comprising at least one photoinitiator group capable of generating a free radical active species upon absorption of electromagnetic energy, wherein the photoinitiator group is selected from the group consisting of an initiator that is insoluble in polar solvent; and a negatively charged initiator; irradiating the first solution and the object, resulting in the grafting initiator binding to the object; removing the first solution; contacting the object with a second solution comprising a polymerizable monomer having at least one free-radical polymerizable group; and irradiating the second solution and the object, wherein the non-polymeric grafting initiator acts as a photoinitiator for a free-radical polymerization reaction.
US08318262B2 Use of spherical metal particles as laser-marking or laser-weldability agents, and laser-markable and/or laser-weldable plastic
The invention relates to the use of spherical metal particles, which are free of antimony and/or antimony-containing compounds, as a laser marking agent or laser weldability agent in a plastic, wherein the particle size distribution of the spherical metal particles, as determined by means of laser granulometry, in the form of the volume-averaged cumulative undersize particle size distribution, has a D99 value of <110 μm, a D90 value of <75 μm, and a D50<45 μm.The invention further relates to a laser-markable and/or laser-weldable plastic which a laser marking agent consisting of spherical metal particles, which are free of antimony and/or antimony-containing compounds, wherein the particle size distribution of the spherical metal particles, as determined by means of laser granulometry, in the form of the volume-averaged cumulative undersize particle size distribution, has a D99 value of <110 μm, a D90 value of <75 μm, and a D50<45 μm.
US08318261B2 Thermally sprayed Al2O3 coatings having a high content of corundum without any property-reducing additives, and method for the production thereof
The disclosure provides a method of producing thermally sprayed Al2O3 coatings having a high content of corundum without any property-reducing additives. The coatings may be utilized particularly in the field of electrical insulation, as a dielectric, and as protection from wear. The thermally sprayed Al2O3 coatings have a porosity of no more than 19%, and a high content of α-Al2O3 (content of corundum) of at least 72% by volume. The coatings have a specific electrical resistance of >1·1012 Ohms·cm, and a purity of >97%. The production of said coatings is carried out utilizing aqueous or alcoholic suspensions made from substantially pure α-Al2O3, having a grain size of >100 nm by thermal spraying.
US08318257B2 Dispersions of higher crystallinity olefins
Dispersions and methods for forming dispersions that include a higher crystallinity polyolefin and at least one dispersing agent are disclosed. Various applications for use of the dispersions are also disclosed.
US08318252B2 Antimony precursors for GST films in ALD/CVD processes
The present invention is a process of making a germanium-antimony-tellurium alloy film using a process selected from the group consisting of atomic layer deposition and chemical vapor deposition, wherein a silylantimony precursor is used as a source of antimony for the alloy film. Novel silylantimony compounds are also disclosed.
US08318251B2 Method for coating honeycomb seal using a slurry containing aluminum
A method and composition are provided for coating honeycomb seals and, more specifically, to a method and slurry for applying an aluminide coating onto honeycomb seals. The method includes preparing a slurry of a powder containing a metallic aluminum alloy having a melting temperature higher than aluminum, an activator capable of forming a reactive halide vapor with the metallic aluminum, and a binder containing an organic polymer. The slurry is applied to surfaces of the honeycomb seal, which is then heated to remove or burn off the binder, vaporize and react the activator with the metallic aluminum to form the halide vapor, react the halide vapor at the substrate surfaces to deposit aluminum on the surfaces of the seal, and diffuse the deposited aluminum into the surfaces to form a diffusion aluminide coating.
US08318250B2 Anchored nanostructure materials and method of fabrication
Anchored nanostructure materials and methods for their fabrication are described. The anchored nanostructure materials may utilize nano-catalysts that include powder-based or solid-based support materials. The support material may comprise metal, such as NiAl, ceramic, a cermet, or silicon or other metalloid. Typically, nanoparticles are disposed adjacent a surface of the support material. Nanostructures may be formed as anchored to nanoparticles that are adjacent the surface of the support material by heating the nano-catalysts and then exposing the nano-catalysts to an organic vapor. The nanostructures are typically single wall or multi-wall carbon nanotubes.
US08318247B2 Coating treatment method, coating treatment apparatus, and computer-readable storage medium
The present invention includes: a first step of discharging a coating solution from a nozzle to a center portion of the substrate to apply the coating solution on a surface of the substrate while rotating the substrate; a second step of decelerating, after the first step, the rotation of the substrate and continuously rotating the substrate; and a third step of accelerating, after the second step, the rotation of the substrate to dry the coating solution on the substrate, wherein: the substrate is rotated at a fixed speed of a first speed immediately before the first step; and in the first step, the rotation of the substrate which is at the first speed before start of the first step is gradually accelerated after the start of the first step so as to make the speed continuously change, and the acceleration of the rotation of the substrate is gradually decreased so as to make the speed of the rotation of the substrate converge in a second speed higher than the first speed at end of the first step.
US08318246B2 Process for preparing compacted pigment granules, process for preparing encapsulated pigment granules, and process for dyeing landscaping and/or construction materials
A process for preparing compacted pigment granules, comprising the steps of (1) loading iron oxide powder into a rotating mixer; (2) spraying, while the mixer is rotating, liquid binder solution onto the cascading pigment powder, whereby the cascading pigment powder is compacted into dense granules of approximately 0.3-1.2 mm diameter and having a moisture content of approximately 10-14%; and (3) directing, while the mixer is rotating, heated air at a temperature of 200-600° C. onto the compacted pigment granules, so that the compacted pigment granules are dried at a temperature of approximately 50-100° C., and continuing this process for approximately 2-3 hours until the moisture content of the compacted pigment granules is reduced to approximately 2% or less, whereupon the compacted pigment granules are removed from the mixer, and a process for preparing encapsulated pigment granules.
US08318244B2 Use of glassy silicone-based hard coating as release coatings for printable electronics
A method for fabricating electronic devices includes the steps of 1) printing a multi-layer electronic device on a silicone-based hard coating on a substrate, and 2) removing the device from the substrate. The silicone-based hard coating is an abrasion resistant coating with hardness ranging from 1 to 10 gigaPascals.
US08318243B2 Method for manufacturing optical information recording medium
Disclosed is a method for manufacturing an optical information recording medium. The method includes laminating plural layers successively on a substrate having a through-hole at its center; and fitting center caps each having a predetermined radius in the through-hole to form at least two of the plural layers by a spin coat method. A radius of a first center cap used for forming an upper layer of the at least two layers is larger than a radius of a second center cap used for forming a lower layer thereof.
US08318242B2 Systems and methods for protecting a sensitive device from corrosion
A method in one embodiment includes applying an organic coating to a magnetic head for reducing exposure of the head to oxidation promoting materials; and storing the magnetic head. A method in another embodiment includes applying an organic coating to a magnetic head for reducing exposure of the head to oxidation promoting materials, the organic coating being applied to the magnetic head after the head is installed in the magnetic storage system. Another method includes fabricating a tape having an applicator portion for applying an organic coating to a magnetic head for reducing exposure of the head to oxidation promoting materials; applying the organic coating to the applicator portion of the tape; and applying a lubricant to a data portion of the tape. A method in another embodiment includes fabricating a tape having a data portion, and a cleaning portion for removing an organic coating from a magnetic head.
US08318235B2 Method for applying drug coating to a medical device in surgeon room
Medical devices, and in particular implantable medical devices such as stents and stent delivery systems including catheters, may be coated to minimize or substantially eliminate a biological organism's reaction to the introduction of the medical device to the organism or to treat a particular condition. A dip coating process is utilized to minimize waste and to customize coating thickness and drug loading directly at the clinical site just prior to therapeutic use on a patient. An aqueous latex polymeric emulsion is utilized to coat any medical device to a desired thickness by allowing for successive dipping and drying cycles at the clinical site. In addition, aqueous latex polymeric emulsions pose less of a chance of the bridging phenomenon associated with organic solvent based polymers.
US08318234B2 Mixed aqueous solution of L-lysine and L-threonine and method of preparing same
The present invention provides a mixed aqueous solution of L-lysine and L-threonine, which is industrially useful as an animal feed ingredient. The solution is stable, concentrated, and has good handleability. Therefore, a mixed aqueous solution of L-lysine and L-threonine is provided which contains L-lysine, L-threonine, and water. The solution has a viscosity of 3300 cp or less at 20° C., a pH of 10-13, and a total concentration of L-lysine and L-threonine in the mixed aqueous solution of 70 g/100 g of water or more.
US08318233B2 Emulsions useful in beverages
It has now been found that emulsions having a discrete phase volume fraction of 60% to 67% with excellent stability may be prepared using at least one low molecular weight surfactant. Such emulsions have high oil loading and a small mean particle size of less than 0.2 microns. Further, such emulsions may be used in beverages without weighting agents.
US08318227B2 Cooking accessory and method
A method and apparatus are disclosed for removing fat floating on hot soup. A thermally conducting plate 14 having a flat underside is cooled to a temperature below that at which the flat solidifies and lowered onto the floating fat to cause the fat to congeal and adhere to its underside. The plate 14 is then raised to remove the adhering fat from the soup, and the fat adhering to the underside is scraped off by dragging the underside across a straight edge 22.
US08318225B2 Composition for enhancing physical performance
This invention relates to a composition that contains quercetin, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin C, caffeine, epigallocatechin gallate, epicatechin, epicatechin gallate, and epigallocatechin.
US08318222B2 Topical skin care formulation
Disclosed is a multi-beneficial topical skin care composition, and methods for its use, that can hydrate skin, increase the firmness of skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines or wrinkles on skin, and reduce the appearance of age spots on skin. The composition can include a combination of skin active ingredients comprising euterpe oleracea fruit extract, punica granatum sterols, caprooyl tetrapeptide-3, tocopherol or tocopherol acetate, and niacinamide, a combination of skin moisturizing agents comprising glycerin and butyrospermum parkii, a photo stable combination of sunscreen agents providing the composition with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least about 15, and a dermatologically acceptable vehicle which imparts a non-greasy feel when applied to skin.
US08318220B2 Bioactive compositions from Theacea plants and processes for their production and use
The present invention relates to isolated bioactive compositions containing bioactive fractions derived from Theacea plants. The present invention also relates to bioactive topical formulations containing the bioactive compositions. The present invention further relates to methods of using the bioactive compositions of the present invention, including, for example, methods for inhibiting inflammatory activity in skin tissue of a mammal, for protecting skin tissue of a mammal from ultraviolet light-induced damage, and for normalizing skin disorders in skin tissue of a mammal. The present invention also relates to methods for isolating bioactive fractions derived from cell juice or a cell walls component a Theacea plant.
US08318218B2 Composition comprising 1,3/1, 6 beta glucan for reducing weight
Beta-1,3/1,6-glucan for use as a slimming aid or in weight loss or for the treatment of obesity.
US08318216B2 Ayurvedic formulation advocated for the prevention and management of coronary heart disease
A novel herbal formulation for the prevention and management of various CHD risk factors including vascular inflammatory process responsible for cardiovascular events comprising a hydro-alcoholic extraction of Commiphora mukul, Terminalia arjuna, Inula recemosa and Hippophae rhamonoides with or without known additives.
US08318214B2 Method for treating onychoschizia
Method for the treatment of onychoschizia in a patient having onychoschizia. The method is performed by administering to the patient a topical composition including (a) at least one herb extract from the genus Equisetum, and (b) at least one water-soluble film forming agent which is a derivative of chitosan.
US08318211B2 Therapeutic polymeric nanoparticles comprising vinca alkaloids and methods of making and using same
The present disclosure generally relates to therapeutic nanoparticles. Exemplary nanoparticles disclosed herein may include about 1 to about 20 weight percent of a vinca alkaloid; and about 50 to about 99 weight percent biocompatible polymer.
US08318206B2 Particles
The present invention provides a particle aggregate comprising particles linked to other particles via linkers that are capable of being cleaved by an enzyme. The particles may be linked directly to other particles by the linkers or may be linked indirectly by means of a binding moiety. The invention also provides a particle coupled to a binding moiety via a linker that can be cleaved by an enzyme. The present invention may be used in diagnosing a disease or condition associated with the enzyme, or may be used to treat such a disease or condition whereby the drug is retained in the particle aggregate until the linkers are cleaved by the enzyme.
US08318204B2 pH sensitive block copolymer and polymeric micelle using the same
Disclosed is a pH-sensitive block copolymer obtained by copolymerization of: (a) a polyethylene glycol compound (A); and (b) at least one poly(amino acid) compound selected from the group consisting of a poly(β-amino ester) and poly(amido amine) or a copolymer thereof (B). A method for preparing the same block copolymer, and a polymer micelle type drug composition comprising the pH-sensitive block copolymer and a physiologically active substance that can be encapsulated with the block copolymer are also disclosed. The pH-sensitive block copolymer is obtained by polymerization of a hydrophilic polyethylene glycol compound with a pH-sensitive biodegradable poly(amino acid) compound. Therefore, the pH-sensitive block copolymer can form a micelle structure due to its amphiphilicity and ionization characteristics depending on pH variations, and thus can be used as drug carrier for target-directed drug delivery depending on pH variations in the body.
US08318199B2 Liposome for liver-specific delivery and release of therapeutic nucleic acids or drugs
Disclosed herein is a composite of a nanoscale particle size. The composite is able to specifically deliver therapeutic agents such as therapeutic nucleic acids or drugs to the liver and selectively release them into hepatic cells to manifest potent therapeutic effects of the therapeutic agents. The composite may be comprised of an apolipoprotein A-1 and a liposome-forming material. A composition containing the composite and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier is disclosed.
US08318195B2 Controlling resorption of bioresorbable medical implant material by application of microwave, ultrasound or radiofrequencies
The resorption of a medical implant can be controlled with the use of particles embedded in a resorbable bulk material forming the implant or portion thereof. The implant can be removed from a body of a mammal by natural biological mechanisms after use. The resorption of the implant can involve swelling and/or hydrolyzing of the particles within the implant upon contact with a body fluid such that porosity and flow of fluid within the bulk material of the implant is increased. Resorption of the implant may also involve the use of particles with magnetic properties embedded within the implant such that an applied magnetic field causes the particles to vibrate within the bulk material thereby increasing the porosity and thus the flow of fluid, hence facilitating resorption of the implant. The resorption rate of the implant can be controlled by modulating swelling, hydrolysis, or movement of the embedded particles.
US08318194B2 Implants for administering substances and methods of producing mesoporous implants
A porous silicon implant impregnated with a beneficial substance, such as a micromineral required for healthy physiology, is implanted subcutaneously and is entirely corroded away over the following months/year to release the micromineral in a controlled manner. In a second embodiment the implant may have a large number of holes which contain beneficial substance and which are closed by bio-errordable doors of different thickness so as to stagger the release of the beneficial substance over time as the doors are breached.
US08318190B2 Method of treating disorders using compositions comprising zotarolimus and paclitaxel
A system and compositions including zotarolimus and paclitaxel are disclosed, as well as methods of delivery, wherein the drugs have effects that complement each other. Medical devices are disclosed which include supporting structures that include at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient, which carrier or excipient can include one or more therapeutic agents or substances, with the carrier including at least one coating on the surface thereof, and the coating associated with the therapeutic substances, such as, for example, drugs. Supporting structures for the medical devices that are suitable for use in this invention include, but are not limited to, coronary stents, peripheral stents, catheters, arterio-venous grafts, by-pass grafts, and drug delivery balloons used in the vasculature. These compositions and systems can be used in combination with other drugs, including anti-proliferative agents, anti-platelet agents, anti-inflammatory agents, anti-thrombotic agents, cytotoxic drugs, agents that inhibit cytokine or chemokine binding, cell de-differentiation inhibitors, anti-lipaedemic agents, matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors, cytostatic drugs, or combinations of these and other drugs.
US08318187B2 Long-wearing cosmetic compositions with improved shine
A cosmetic composition comprising (A) a first structured and adhesive film-forming fatty phase comprising (i) one or more lipidic components that are mutually compatible with one another when liquefied; (ii) at least one adhesive film-forming agent; and (iii) at least one lipophilic structuring agent in an amount effective to retain a second fatty phase entrapped in said cosmetic composition prior to application on mammalian keratinous tissue; and (B) a second fatty phase comprising at least one non-volatile lipidic component wherein said second fatty phase (B) is incompatible with said first structured and adhesive film-forming fatty phase (A) and said second fatty phase (B) is entrapped in said composition where upon application of said composition to mammalian keratinous tissue, said second fatty phase (B) readily separates from said composition to form a barrier layer over said first structured and adhesive film-forming fatty phase (A) and wherein said composition is substantially free of surfactants such that separation of said second fatty phase (B) from said composition is not prevented following application of said composition.
US08318185B2 Recombinant malaria vaccine
The present invention refers to a recombinant malaria vaccine and a method for its manufacture.
US08318182B2 Vault compositions for immunization against Chlamydia genital infection
Methods and compositions are provided herein for immunizing a subject against Chlamydial genital infection by administering to the subject an effective amount of a Chlamydial immunogenic peptide or an immunogenic fragment or variant thereof incorporated within a vault-like particle carrier. In some aspects, the vault-like-particles are administered to the nasal mucosa. The methods and compositions advantageously exhibit enhanced ability to induce cell-mediated immunity and/or antibody-based immunity at mucosal surfaces while reducing inflammation associated with Chlamydia infection.
US08318174B2 Survivin-derived peptides and use thereof
MHC Class I-restricted peptides derived from the tumor associated antigen, survivin, which peptides are capable of binding to Class I HLA molecules at a high affinity, capable of eliciting INF-γ-producing cells in a PBL population of a cancer patient and capable of in situ detection of cytotoxic T cells in a tumor tissue, therapeutic and diagnostic composition comprising the peptide and uses thereof.
US08318173B2 Chimeric vaccines
The invention provides chimeric proteins and nucleic acids encoding these which can be used to generate vaccines against selected antigens. In one aspect, a chimeric protein comprises an antigen sequence and a domain for trafficking the protein to an endosomal compartment, irrespective of whether the antigen is derived from a membrane or non-membrane protein. In one preferred aspect, the trafficking domain comprises a lumenal domain of a LAMP polypeptide. Alternatively, or additionally, the chimeric protein comprises a trafficking domain of an endocytic receptor (e.g., such as DEC-205 or gp200-MR6). The vaccines (DNA, RNA or protein) can be used to modulate or enhance an immune response against any kind of antigen. In one preferred aspect, the invention provides a method for treating a patient with cancer by providing a chimeric protein comprising a cancer-specific antigen or a nucleic acid encoding the protein to the patient.
US08318171B2 Neurotoxic oligomers
This invention relates to methods and compositions for the treatment or alleviation of Alzheimer's disease and of other conditions related to abnormal protein aggregation. In particular, the invention relates to methods and compositions for the immunotherapy of Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and cataract. In one aspect the invention provides a method of prophylaxis, treatment or alleviation of a condition characterized by pathological aggregation and accumulation of a specific protein associated with an immunizing-effective dose of one or more tyrosine cross-linked compounds, and optionally also comprising copper ions complexed to the compound. Alternatively passive immunization against a tyrosine cross-linked compound may be used. Prophylactic or therapeutic compositions and diagnostic methods are also disclosed and claimed.
US08318166B2 Ligands of HVEM for treating hematologic malignancies
The present invention relates to ligands of HVEM for the treatment of hematologic malignancies, in particular Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, and for the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
US08318163B2 Anti-pan neuropilin antibody and binding fragments thereof
The invention provides crystal structures of neuropilin 1 (Nrp1) and neuropilin 2 (Nrp2) fragments alone and in complex with anti-neuropilin antibodies, and method for their use. The invention further provides anti-Nrp antibodies and methods for their therapeutic applications.
US08318161B2 Anti-oxidized LDL antibody formulation
A formulation comprising a therapeutically effective amount of an antibody, optionally, not subjected to prior lyophilization, a buffer maintaining the pH in the range from about 4.5 to about 6.5, and an optional surfactant is described, along with uses for such a formulation.
US08318156B2 Anti-cocaine compositions and treatment
Embodiments of the invention disclosed herein generally relate to anti-cocaine therapeutics. Specifically, some embodiments of the invention relate to highly efficient, thermostable, and long-lasting cocaine esterase (CocE) mutants that can protect against the toxic and reinforcing effects of cocaine in subjects. Provided herein are mutant CocE polypeptides displaying thermostable esterase activity. Also provided are methods of treating cocaine-induced conditions in a subject in need via administration of mutant CocE as well as methods for high-throughput screening of candidate esterase polypeptides.
US08318155B2 Nucleic acid cleaving agent
A nucleic acid cleaving agent having a cleaving activity specific to a desired cleavage site in a nucleic acid such as large DNA, which comprises (1) a nucleic acid cleaving moiety, and (2) at least two zinc finger proteins bound to the nucleic acid cleaving moiety, wherein at least one of the zinc finger proteins can specifically bind to a nucleotide sequence located upstream from the target cleavage site, and at least one of the remaining zinc finger proteins can specifically bind to a nucleotide sequence located downstream from the target cleavage site.
US08318151B2 Lactobacillus rhamnosus NCC4007, a probiotic mixture and weight control
The present invention generally relates to the field of weight management and obesity. In particular the present invention relates to the use of probiotics in combination with prebiotics to treat or prevent obesity. One embodiment of the present invention relates to the use of Lactobacillus rhamnosus NCC 4007 in combination with a specific probiotic mixture for the preparation of a composition to support weight management, promote weight loss and/or to treat obesity.
US08318147B2 Use of IL-29 for treating a dengue virus infection
IL-28A, IL-28B, IL-29, and certain mutants thereof have been shown to have antiviral activity on a spectrum of viral species. Of particular interest is the antiviral activity demonstrated on viruses that infect liver, such as hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus. In addition, IL-28A, IL-28B, IL-29, and mutants thereof do not exhibit some of the antiproliferative activity on hematopoietic cells that is observed with interferon treatment. Without the immunosuppressive effects accompanying interferon treatment, IL-28A, IL-28B, and IL-29 will be useful in treating immunocompromised patients for viral infections.
US08318145B2 Multi-arm polymer prodrugs
Provided herein are water-soluble prodrugs. The prodrugs of the invention comprise a water-soluble polymer having three or more arms, at least three of which are covalently attached to an active agent, e.g., a small molecule. The conjugates of the invention provide an optimal balance of polymer size and structure for achieving improved drug loading, since the conjugates of the invention possess three or more active agents releasably attached to a multi-armed water soluble polymer. The prodrugs of the invention are therapeutically effective, and exhibit improved properties in-vivo when compared to unmodified parent drug.
US08318140B2 Methods for promoting hair growth
The present invention relates to methods of promoting hair growth in a patient. The method comprises administering to a patient in need thereof a sugar compound that is converted to a glycosaminoglycan in the patient, a primary antioxidant component, at least one amino acid component, and one or more transition metals.
US08318135B2 Antagonist of ligands and uses thereof
The invention provides multivalent ligand binding agents (traps) for members of the TGF-β superfamily and polypeptide linkers and methods for making and using such constructs. The traps may be used as therapeutic or diagnostic (imaging or non-imaging) agents for diseases/disorders caused by over-production/activity of the target ligand. In an embodiment of the invention there is provided a multivalent binding agent with affinity for a member of the TGF-β superfamily, the agent having the general structure I: (-linker1)k-[{-linker2-linker3f-}n-()m-(linker4-)d]h, where: n and h are independently greater than or equal to 1; d, f, m and k are independently equal to or greater than zero; bd1, bd2, bd3 and bd4 are polypeptide binding domains having an affinity for the same member of the TGF-β superfamily, with bd1, bd2, bd3, and bd4 being independently the same or different from each other; and, linker1, linker2, linker3 and linker4 are unstructured polypeptide sequences; wherein the number of amino acids in each linker is determined independently and is greater than or equal to X/2.5; where, X equals the shortest linear distance between: (a) the C-terminus of an isolated form of the binding domain that is located at the N-terminus of the linker and that is specifically bound to its ligand; and, (b) the N-terminus of an isolated form of the binding domain that is located at the C-terminus of the linker and that is specifically bound to its ligand.
US08318132B2 Imaging agents for detecting neurological dysfunction
Disclosed here in are compounds and methods of diagnosing Alzheimer's Disease or a predisposition thereto in a mammal, the method comprising administering to the mammal a diagnostically effective amount of a radiolabeled compound, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of radiolabeled flavones, coumarins, carbazoles, quinolinones, chromenones, imidazoles and triazoles derivatives, allowing the compound to distribute into the brain tissue, and imaging the brain tissue, wherein an increase in binding of the compound to the brain tissue compared to a normal control level of binding indicates that the mammal is suffering from or is at risk of developing Alzheimer's Disease.
US08318126B2 Methods of making metal oxide nanostructures and methods of controlling morphology of same
The present invention includes a method of producing a crystalline metal oxide nanostructure. The method comprises providing a metal salt solution and providing a basic solution; placing a porous membrane between the metal salt solution and the basic solution, wherein metal cations of the metal salt solution and hydroxide ions of the basic solution react, thereby producing a crystalline metal oxide nanostructure.
US08318125B2 Method for activating catalyst for chlorine production
A catalyst having decreased activity is subjected to a contact treatment with a reducing gas containing carbon monoxide and/or hydrogen. Also, the catalyst can be effectively activated by being treated by contacting with an oxidizing gas after having been treated by contacting with the reducing gas. As the catalyst for production of chlorine, a ruthenium catalyst, particularly a catalyst containing ruthenium oxide is suitably activated.
US08318120B2 Process for the surface modification of particles
A method for the preparation of functionalized particles includes providing a feedstock made of particles, a surface treatment agent reactive with the particles, and solvent. The feedstock is exposed to microwave radiation to heat the feedstock and react the particles with the surface treatment agent to provide the functionalized particles in less than about 60 minutes.
US08318114B2 Composition for treating acid gas
This invention provides novel compositions comprising substituted polyamines as acid gas scrubbing solutions and methods of using the compositions in an industrial system. The invention relates to the use of such polyamine compounds in industrial processes to remove acidic contaminants from natural and industrial fluid streams, such as natural gas, combustion gas, natural gas, synthesis gas, biogas, and other industrial fluid streams. The compositions and methods of the invention are useful for removal, absorption, or sequestration of acidic contaminants and sulfide contaminants including CO2, H2S, RSH, CS2, COS, and SO2.
US08318113B2 Purification of metals
A solid composition comprises: —MnO2; and—a compound represented by the general formula (I) wherein: R is a polymer; each Y is independently a hydrogen or a negative charge; Z is either hydrogen or is not present; each n is independently 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6; wherein the MnO2 is bound to the compound of formula (I) so as to coat the surface thereof. Such a composition may be used for the separation of polyvalent metal species, such as Mo, from one or more accompanying impurities.
US08318107B2 Apparatus and method for specimen suitability testing
Disclosed herein are a system for collecting a sample and optionally detecting or analyzing an electrical property thereof, the method comprising: means for obtaining a sample in a sample container; means for directing the sample into a sensing chamber in fluid communication with the sample container, the sensing chamber comprising a plurality of sensing chamber electrodes positioned at the sensing chamber and configured to be in contact with the sample when the sample is directed into the sensing chamber; means for applying an electrical signal to the sample with a read-out analyzer via the plurality of sensing chamber electrodes; the plurality of sensing chamber electrodes in operable communication with the read-out analyzer; and means for detecting the effect of the sample on the electrical signal, thereby determining an electrical property of the sample.
US08318106B2 Analysis system for analyzing a sample on a test element
The invention relates to an analysis system for analyzing a sample on a test element. The system has an analysis unit for generating a signal as a function of an analyte contained in a sample, and a detection unit for detecting the signal. The analysis system further includes a test element holder into which the test element can be reversibly introduced and in which it can be positioned relative to the analysis unit and the detection unit. The test element contains at least one guide element, which is suitable for laterally guiding the test element, so that the test element in the test element holder is held and guided only on an outer region of the test element, and an inner region of the test element introduced into the test element holder remains free. The test element contains a sample application site in the inner region.
US08318105B2 Systems and methods for biomarker analysis
Systems and methods of biomarker analysis. In at least one embodiment of a system for determining the therapeutic potential of a therapeutic compound the present disclosure, the system comprises a detection platform, a computer database capable of receiving a plurality of binding characteristics, a processor operably coupled to the computer database and the detection platform. In at least one embodiment, the processor has and executes a software program operational to determine a binding characteristic of the detection agent and a stabilized diagnostic agent in each of the plurality of detection sites, compare the binding characteristic among each of the plurality of detection sites, wherein the comparison of binding characteristics is capable of determining the stabilizing agent with the greatest effect on the binding characteristic between the detection agent and the diagnostic agent, generate a binding record using the compared binding characteristics, and deliver the binding record to a recipient.
US08318100B2 Reactor vessels with pressure and heat transfer features for producing hydrogen-based fuels and structural elements, and associated systems and methods
Reactor vessels with pressure and heat transfer features for producing hydrogen-based fuels and structural elements, and associated systems and methods. A representative reactor system in accordance with a particular embodiment includes a first reaction zone and a heat path positioned to direct heat into the first reaction zone, a reactant source coupled to the first reaction zone, and a first actuator coupled to cyclically pressurize the first reaction zone. The system can further include a second reaction zone in fluid communication with the first, a valve coupled between the first and second reaction zones to control a flow rate therebetween, and a second actuator coupled in fluid communication with the second reaction zone to cyclically pressurize the second reaction zone. A first heat exchanger is positioned to direct heat from a first product leaving the first reaction zone to a reactant entering the first reaction zone, and a second heat exchanger is positioned to direct heat from a second product leaving the second reaction zone to the reactant entering the first reaction zone. A controller is coupled to the first and second actuators and is programmed with instructions that, when executed, control the first and second actuators in a coordinated manner based at least in part on a flow rate of the second product from the second reaction zone.
US08318096B2 Biological sample measurement apparatus
A wireless blood glucose meter is a battery-powered apparatus to communicating wirelessly with a portable terminal, and includes a blood glucose level detector that measures a blood glucose level, a transmitter that transmits the blood glucose level measured by the blood glucose level detector to the portable terminal, a receiver that receives a response signal sent from the portable terminal in response to the transmission of the blood glucose level by the transmitter to the portable terminal, and a voltage monitor that monitors the output voltage of the battery. A transmission control circuit changes the transmission method used by the transmitter on the basis of the output voltage of the battery as detected by the voltage monitor.
US08318095B2 Apparatus for execution of treatment operations in connection with colouring of tissue specimens on object glasses
An apparatus for automatic execution of different treatment operations in connection with staining of tissue specimens on microscope slides, wherein the apparatus (1) comprises a loading station (2) for microscope slides (7) with tissue specimens, a number of reagent stations (3) for staining of the tissue specimens on supplied microscope slides, a conveyor (5) for transfer of microscope slides (7) between the stations (3) in accordance with a staining program, an unloading station (10) for treated microscope slides, and a control unit (19) for controlling the treatment operations in accordance with a data program. The apparatus comprise a photo station (25) with a digital camera (26) for automatic photographing with a background light source of the finished treated tissue specimens on supplied microscope slides (7). The camera is connected to the control unit (19) of the apparatus and the control unit is arranged to store the picture of each individual tissue specimen and information which is located on the relevant microscopic slide (7) and preferably also information about the staining program and status of reagents at the reagent stations (3) for automatic transmission of the information to a place for result analysis.
US08318094B1 Substrate analysis systems
This invention provides systems for analyzing substrates. Also provided by the invention are improved optical systems for enhanced multiplex illumination, optical systems with compact multi-wavelength illumination architectures, optical systems for enhanced detection of optical signals, and optical systems for reduced autofluorescence background noise.
US08318093B2 Magnetic nanoparticles, magnetic detector arrays, and methods for their use in detecting biological molecules
Magnetic nanoparticles and methods for their use in detecting biological molecules are disclosed. The magnetic nanoparticles can be attached to nucleic acid molecules, which are then captured by a complementary sequence attached to a detector, such as a spin valve detector or a magnetic tunnel junction detector. The detection of the bound magnetic nanoparticle can be achieved with high specificity and sensitivity.
US08318087B2 Microwave accelerated assays
The present invention provides for increasing fluorescence detection in surface assay systems while increasing kinetics of a bioreaction therein by providing low-power microwaves to irradiate metallic materials within the system in an amount sufficient to increase heat thereby affecting the kinetics of a bioreaction therein.
US08318083B2 Cast heat-resistant austenitic steel with improved temperature creep properties and balanced alloying element additions and methodology for development of the same
The present invention addresses the need for new austenitic steel compositions with higher creep strength and higher upper temperatures. The new austenitic steel compositions retain desirable phases, such as austenite, M23C6, and MC in its microstructure to higher temperatures. The present invention also discloses a methodology for the development of new austenitic steel compositions with higher creep strength and higher upper temperatures.
US08318080B2 Device and method for cooling hot strip
A device and a method for cooling a hot strip capable of uniformly cooling the hot-rolled steel strip from the leading end to the trailing end thereof during cooling of the steel strip using cooling water are provided. A cooling device 10 includes a plurality of tubular nozzles 15 inclined so as to eject rod-like flows of cooling water to a steel strip 12 at an ejecting angle θ in a traveling direction of the steel strip 12 and a pinch roller 11 disposed downstream of the tubular nozzles, the steel strip 12 to be nipped between the pinch roller 11 and a table roller 8.
US08318078B2 Asymmetric stent delivery system with proximal edge protection and method of manufacture thereof
A balloon catheter stent deployment system is disclosed wherein a balloon catheter is provided and a tubular stent is crimped onto a distal portion of the balloon with a distal end of the stent in close proximity to a point where the distal end of the balloon is attached to the inner tube of the catheter. A proximal section of the balloon extending from a proximal end of the stent to a point where the proximal end of the balloon is attached to the outer shaft of the catheter remains uncovered by the stent and, has a larger uninflated outer diameter than the crimped stent. Thus, in some embodiments, the proximal section of the balloon provides a protective cone for the proximal end of the stent to help resist frictional forces from disengaging the stent from the balloon in the event the balloon catheter and stent are withdrawn back into a guide catheter during a procedure. A stepped enclosure is also disclosed which is used in a disclosed fabrication method to allow the proximal section of the balloon to be inflated after the stent is crimped onto the distal section of the balloon.
US08318076B2 Selective deposition modeling methods for improved support-object interface
There are provided method and apparatus for the forming of three-dimensional objects in a layered fashion, wherein improvements are made to the support structure to improve the quality of the resulting three-dimensional objects. The support structure may include encapsulation along the interface boundary of the support-object interface to prevent or reduce the likelihood of separation of the build material, that forms the three-dimensional object, from the support material, that forms the support structure, or vice versa. The support structure may also or alternatively include both a porous support structure and a solid support structure to prevent or reduce the likelihood of separation of the support structure from the build platform and to improve the quality of the down-facing surfaces of the three-dimensional object. Methods are also provided for selectively depositing the support material and build material and for encapsulating the interface boundary with support material.
US08318075B2 Compression moulding apparatus, methods and item
An apparatus comprises a molding unit having a punch and a mold cavity movable along a path between an open position in which said punch and said mold cavity are distanced apart from each other to receive a dose of plastics therebetween, and a closed position in which said punch and said mold cavity interact to form an item by pressing said dose, said punch being kept not above said cavity along said path.
US08318073B2 Non-slip activation members
A mechanical activation system has a first activation member, a second activation member, an activation zone, and a non-slip zone. The first activation member has a first plurality of teeth, and the second activation member has a second plurality of teeth. The first plurality of teeth is capable of intermeshing with the second plurality of teeth. The activation zone includes a first portion of the first plurality of teeth and a first portion of the second plurality of teeth. The first portion of the first plurality of teeth and the first portion of the second plurality of teeth include teeth having continuous tips. The first non-slip zone includes a second portion of the first plurality of teeth or a second portion of the second plurality of teeth. The second portion includes a tooth having a discontinuous tip.
US08318069B2 Method for securing a machine element
A method is disclosed in which a pressurized fluid presses an axial abutment surface against a first machine element in the axial direction to thereby fix the axial position of the first machine element and/or to thereby set a desired axial pre-loading of the first machine element. The fluid is then solidified to permanently maintain the axial position and/or the axial pre-loading of the first machine element. A clamp is disclosed that permanently affixes the first machine element relative to a second machine element using this method. An apparatus comprising the first machine element axially fixed relative to the second machine element by the clamp is also disclosed.
US08318068B2 Method for producing a connection between composite parts
A method for joining together constructional parts which are made of a composite material and extend transversely to one another, such as a flange and a web of a profile, includes the steps of: placing the constructional parts in the desired position with respect to one another so as to form a connecting region in which one of the constructional parts abuts against or in proximity to the other constructional part, causing a thermoplastic material to flow out into the connecting region, fusing together the constructional parts under the influence of heat and pressure.
US08318067B2 Resin transfer moulding process for an article containing a protective member
A resin transfer molding process for an article incorporating a protective insert of polymer material such as polyether ether ketone (PEEK). A piece of PEEK material is cut and thermoformed to the required shape and then placed in position in a mold. A bead of elastomer material is formed around the edge of the insert to seal it against an internal wall of the mold in order to prevent resin tracking between the mold and insert faces during subsequent injection into the mold.
US08318061B2 Mold temperature control circuit of injection molding device and method for discharging heating medium
In a mold temperature control circuit of an injection molding device, such a molding cycle is repeated that, prior to injection of a resin, a heating-use medium is returned to molds and heated to a temperature suitable for resin injection, after injection of the resin, the heating-use medium is switched to a cooling-use medium, thereby the cooling-use medium is returned to the molds and cooling is conducted to give a temperature equal to or lower than a temperature at which the resin is solidified. In the mold temperature control circuit of the injection molding device, a junction piping is able to commonly use the respective supply pipings of the heating-use medium, the cooling-use medium and the scavenging compressed air to the molds and the respective discharge pipings thereof, and there is provided mold bypass piping coupling the supply-side junction piping of the heating medium with the discharge-side junction piping, a mold bypass on-off valve, a passed heating medium sensor, a mold-temperature adjusting control device which stores a mold temperature determination program and a passed heating medium determination program.
US08318059B2 Stabilization of poly(oxyalkylene) containing polymeric materials
The present invention provides a method for producing a medical device, preferably an ophthalmic device, more preferably a contact lens, made of a stabilized poly(oxyalkylene)-containing polymeric material. The method of the invention comprises the steps of: curing, in a mold, a composition comprising (a) a prepolymer having at least one poly(oxyalkylene) unit, (b) a biocompatible organic multi-acid or biocompatible salt thereof in an amount sufficient to improve the stability of the poly(oxyalkylene)-containing polymer made from the composition, (c) optionally a photoinitiator or a thermal initiator, and (d) optionally one or more vinylic monomers, to form the medical device being less susceptible to oxidative degradation; and removing the medical device from the mold.
US08318056B2 Optical sheet manufacturing method
An optical sheet having both a light condensing function and a light diffusing function in a single sheet is to be provided. When a transparent support (18) on which a curable resin coat layer (38) is formed is wound around a zigzag-faced roller (32) on which the reversed pattern of convex-concave patterns is formed to transfer the reversed pattern of the zigzag-faced roller (32) to the resin coat layer (38), gas is blown from a gas jet nozzle (50), immediately before winding the transparent support (18) around the zigzag-faced roller (32), into a gap between the resin coat layer (38) and the surface of the zigzag-faced roller.
US08318055B2 Methods for formation of an ophthalmic lens precursor and lens
This invention discloses methods for generating one or both of an ophthalmic lens precursor with at least a portion of one surface free-formed from a Reactive Mixture. In some embodiments, an ophthalmic lens precursor is formed on a substrate with an arcuate optical quality surface via a source of actinic radiation controllable to cure a definable portion of a volume of Reactive Mixture.
US08318052B2 Diketopyrrolopyrrole cocrystals with high transparency
The present invention relates to a pigment composition composed of compounds of the formula (I), (II) and (III) with a novel crystal modification, to their preparation and to the use of this novel product as a pigment. For many applications of organic pigments, for example the coloring of metallic lacquers or the use thereof in color filters, a very high transparency is required. To produce color filters, for example, particularly fine pigments are used, in order to substantially rule out the particle scattering which leads to a lowering of the contrast ratio. The commercially available products, however, do not always meet all requirements of the art. More particularly, there was a need for improvement with regard to the transparency and the associated fineness of the pigment crystals, and also the color purity (chroma).
US08318050B2 Processes for polymeric precursors for caigas aluminum-containing photovoltaics
This invention relates to processes for compounds, polymeric compounds, and compositions used to prepare semiconductor and optoelectronic materials and devices including thin film and band gap materials. This invention provides a range of compounds, polymeric compounds, compositions, materials and methods directed ultimately toward photovoltaic applications, transparent conductive materials, as well as devices and systems for energy conversion, including solar cells. In particular, this invention relates to polymeric precursor compounds and precursor materials for preparing photovoltaic layers. In particular, this invention relates to molecular precursor compounds and precursor materials for preparing photovoltaic layers including CAIGAS.
US08318041B2 Stable sediment dispersion, method for production and use thereof
The present invention relates to a stable sediment dispersion which can be used above all as electrorheological (ERF) and/or magnetorheological fluid (MRF), a method for production thereof and also use thereof.
US08318040B2 Refrigerator oil and working fluid composition for refrigerating machine
The refrigerating machine oil of the invention is characterized by comprising an ester of a polyhydric alcohol and fatty acids with a content of a C10-C13 branched fatty acid of 50% by mole or greater. The working fluid composition for a refrigerating machine of the invention is characterized in that the working fluid composition comprises an ester of a polyhydric alcohol and fatty acids with a content of a C10-C13 branched fatty acid of 50% by mole or greater, and a refrigerant.
US08318034B2 Surface processing method
In a surface processing method for processing a surface of a member made of silicon carbide (SiC) and having a fragmental layer on a surface thereof, the surface of the member having the fragmental layer is modified into a dense layer to reduce the number of particles generated from the surface of the member when the member is applied to a plasma processing apparatus. Here, the SiC of the surface of the member is recrystallized by heating the fragmental layer.
US08318033B2 Conductive tape and method for making the same
The present invention relates to a conductive tape. The conductive tape includes a adhesive layer and a plurality of carbon nanotubes. The adhesive layer has a first surface and an opposite second surface. The carbon nanotubes are substantially embedded in parallel in the adhesive layer and perpendicular to the first surface and the second surface. Each of the carbon nanotubes has two opposite ends extending out of the two opposite surfaces of the adhesive layer respectively. Further, a method for making the above-described conductive tape is also included.
US08318030B2 Magnetic device definition with uniform biasing control
A method of fabricating a magnetic device is described. A mask removing layer is formed on a layered sensing stack and a hard mask layer is formed on the mask removing layer. A first reactive ion etch is performed with a non-oxygen-based chemistry to define the hard mask layer using an imaged layer formed on the hard mask layer as a mask. A second reactive ion etch is performed with an oxygen-based chemistry to define the mask removing stop layer using the defined hard mask layer as a mask. A third reactive ion etch is performed to define the layered sensing stack using the hard mask layer as a mask. The third reactive ion etch includes an etching chemistry that performs at a lower etching rate on the hard mask layer than on the layered sensing stack.
US08318026B2 Grit chamber and a method for controlling the same
A system for controlling the sedimentation of sand or grit particles suspended in waste water contained in a grit chamber by determining the temperature of water contained in the grit chamber and by operating a turbulence creating means on the basis of the water temperature. A method of controlling the sedimentation of sand and grit particles suspended in waste water contained in a grit chamber, by determining the temperature of water contained in the grit chamber and by operating a turbulence creating means on the basis of the water temperature.
US08318024B2 System and method for distribution of fluid a multistage column
The present invention consists of a device for distributing and collecting fluids at the outlet from an upstream granular bed in a multistage column having a plurality of granular beds, said device comprising a deflector, which can equalize the trajectories of the fluid stream lines from the outlet from the mixing chamber to the downstream bed of granular solid.
US08318022B2 Wafer-shaped hollow fiber module for in-line use in a piping system
A wafer-shaped hollow fiber module adapted for in-line use in a piping system. The piping system may include two standard bolted flange connections, and at least one wafer-shaped hollow fiber module sealed between the two standard bolted flange connections. The wafer shaped hollow fiber module includes: a cylindrical housing having an open end and a closed end having a first sealing surface and an inlet port; at least one side port through the cylindrical housing; an end cap united to the open end having a second sealing surface and an outlet port.
US08318021B2 Water filtration system
A water or liquid substance filtration device is disclosed which removes microorganisms and organic contamination and sterilizes the containers and water lines after the unit. The unit is portable, or can be mounted stationary. The unit has a five-stage filtration and sterilization system controlled by an independent onboard computer system that can link to a central computer system to keep track of all independent units. The unit will physically filter out of the water contaminants that can be reused, destroyed, or flushed down a safe drain. It can also be modified to filter for a certain size of particulate, making recovery of certain substances possible. The unit has a self-diagnostic system that can determine if the unit is operating properly and can shut down a part thereof if one of the capillary units fails. The system is hydrophilic, can run at low pressures and can be designed from low to extremely high volumes. The unit uses ozone to disinfect containers and water lines.
US08318020B2 Washing method and apparatus of separation membrane
When a separation membrane (3) is washed with a chemical solution that is a sodium hypochlorite solution, which has a high concentration, diluted with membrane treated water stored in a chemical solution tank (6), an ammonic nitrogen concentration in membrane-treated water is monitored with a monitoring device (9), and a control device (8) controls a chemical solution dosing pump (7) using the concentration measured by the device (9) to adjust a dilution rate. Thereby, even when water quality of membrane-treated water varies, a sodium hypochlorite concentration in backwashing water can be retained constant, and fluctuation in the chemical washing effect can be prevented.
US08318015B2 Stormwater filtration systems
A stormwater filtration system suitable for treatment of stormwater runoff in a developed environment uses a primary treatment bay that includes a filtration bed with live plant matter. A second treatment bay treats water that exceeds the maximum throughput of the primary bay. A reservoir stores treated runoff to water the plants during dry weather. Removable trays on the surface of the primary filtration bed provide plants suitable for ground cover. Additional bays expand the filtration bed throughput and accommodate extended root systems. A flow control may be provided for the primary treatment bay.
US08318014B2 Reactor comprising a stack of filter plates
A reactor includes a tubular-shaped housing in which a stack of filter plates can be rotationally arranged. The cross-sectional area of the reactor container is, in the region of the stack of filter plates, a maximum of 40% greater than the cross-sectional area of the stack of filter plates. The longitudinal extension of the reactor housing is a multiple of the longitudinal extension of the stack of filter plates, such that inside the reactor, adjacent to the stack of filter plates, additional processing devices can be arranged. The rotating stack of filter plates ensures that the entire reactor is cross-flown in an intensive manner.
US08318013B2 Staged membrane system for gas, vapor, and liquid separations
The present invention involves the use of a multi-stage membrane system for gas, vapor, and liquid separations. In this multi-stage membrane system, high selectivity and high permeance or at least high selectivity polybenzoxazole membranes or cross-linked polybenzoxazole membranes are applied for a pre-membrane or both the pre-membrane and the secondary membrane. A primary membrane can be from conventional glassy polymers. This multi-stage membrane system can reduce inter-stage compression cost, increase product recovery and product purity for gas, vapor, and liquid separations. It can also save the cost compared to the system using all the high cost polybenzoxazole membranes or cross-linked polybenzoxazole membranes.
US08318012B2 Barge oil skimmer
An oil skimming water vessel having a hull and deck forming one or more interior compartments, wherein the hull comprising a bow or forward section, a mid-section, a stern or aft section, and an oil skimmer assembly, and wherein either or both of the bow or aft section constructed having a rake bottom shell. The oil skimmer assembly having first and second separated side walls (SKEG) extending vertically down from the rake bottom shell, a skimmer bottom plate extending between and affixed at the lower end sections of each of the side walls (SKEG) wherein the skimmer bottom plate having at least one discharge opening in its leading edge section, and a weir plate assembly. The rake bottom shell having at least one standpipe opening to which a standpipe attaches and extends vertically to a corresponding vessel deck opening. The weir plate assembly including a weir plate extending upward from the skimmer bottom plate between and affixed to the first and second side walls, the weir plate positioned between the discharge openings and the one or more standpipe openings. The weir plate with the side walls, the skimmer bottom plate, and the rake bottom shell forming an entrance to receive skimmed oil-containing water and a rear compartment positioned rearward of the weir plate to collect the skimmed oil-containing water passing over the top edge of the weir plate.
US08318011B2 Portable drinking water purification device
A portable water disinfecting and purification apparatus comprising a first chamber into which water to be purified may be drawn by suction or negative pressure, a second chamber into which the water from the first chamber can be forced by a pumping action or positive pressure, whereby the water is initially passed across a pre-filter secured over the inlet to the first chamber and having a very small pore size and an inner cavity in which a disinfecting agent is place to filters most contaminants before the water is drawn into said filtering device, and once in the first holding chamber the water is isolated and may be further treated with a disinfectant agent, and then is passed though at least additional filtering substance including an activated carbon or nano-filter.
US08318008B1 Modular individual wastewater nutrient removal system
A modular, on-site, wastewater treatment system removes total nitrogen, phosphorus, BOD, and TSS. A flow equalization module provides a constant flow rate to the system eliminating the adverse effects from variations in flow rate throughout the day. Treatment modules are similarly sized to provide a compact, modular system. The nitrification module is a fixed-film, flooded packed bioreactor to facilitate bioconversion of ammonia to nitrate. Aeration of the module provides the oxygen needed for the bioconversion as well prevents clogging of the film. Solids from the nitrification process are removed in a first cone-shaped settling tank. De-nitrification where nitrate is converted to nitrogen gas takes place in an anaerobic fixed-film bioreactor. Carbon-based bio-film carriers provide a carbon source for de-nitrification. A final cone-shaped settling tank separates solids from the treated wastewater. Additional modules to address removal of phosphorous or other contaminants can be added to the modular system.
US08318007B2 Ultraviolet radiation lamp and source module and treatment system containing same
The invention relates to an ultraviolet radiation lamp. The lamp comprises a substantially sealed cavity comprising a mercury-containing material; a filament disposed in the sealed cavity; and an electrical control element in contact with the filament, the electrical control element configured to adjust or maintain a temperature of the mercury-containing material with respect to a prescribed temperature. Such a constructions allows the present ultraviolet radiation lamp to be operated at optimal efficiency without the need to use additional components to add heat to and/or remove heat from the mercury-containing material.
US08318004B2 Hydrocarbon treatment method and apparatus
A method and apparatus for producing a treated hydrocarbon containing stream for use as a feed to a hydrogen plant having a steam methane reformer in which an untreated hydrocarbon containing stream is introduced into two reaction stages connected in series to hydrogenate olefins and to convert organic sulfur species to hydrogen sulfide. The second of the two stages can also be operated in a pre-reforming mode to generate additional hydrogen through introduction of the oxygen and steam into such stage. A sulfur tolerant catalyst is used in both stages to promote hydrogenation and oxidation reactions. Sulfur is removed between stages by adsorption of the hydrogen sulfide to prevent deactivation of the catalyst in the second of the stages that would otherwise occur during operation of the second reaction stage in a pre-reforming mode of operation.
US08318003B2 Process for catalytic conversion of Fischer-Tropsch derived olefins to distillates
The invention provides a low aromatic producing process for catalytical conversion of Fisher-Tropsch derived olefins to distillates (COD), which process includes the step of contacting Fisher-Tropsch derived olefins with a zeolite type catalyst at pressures of more than 50 barg.
US08318000B2 Method of producing a crude product
A method of producing a crude product from a hydrocarbon feed is provided. A hydrocarbon feed is contacted with a catalyst containing a Col. 6-10 metal or compound thereof to produce the crude product, where the catalyst has a pore size distribution with a median pore diameter ranging from 105 Å to 150 Å, with 60% of the total number of pores in the pore size distribution having a pore diameter within 60 Å of the median pore diameter, with at least 50% of its pore volume in pores having a pore diameter of at most 600 Å, and between 5% and 25% of its pore volume in pores having a pore diameter between 1000 Å and 5000 Å.
US08317993B2 Plating method and apparatus
A plating apparatus has a steam treatment chamber configured to perform a steam treatment using steam on a surface of a substrate, and a plating chamber configured to plate the surface of the substrate subjected to the steam treatment. The plating apparatus also has an acid treatment chamber configured to bring the surface of the substrate subjected to the steam treatment into contact with an acid liquid. The plating apparatus includes a frame housing the steam treatment chamber, the acid treatment chamber, and the plating chamber.
US08317990B2 Droplet actuator loading and target concentration
A droplet actuator and method of providing a droplet comprising an target substance on the droplet actuator, and including discrete flow and continuous flow functionality. Discrete flow function is controlled by electrodes arranged for conducting droplet operations on a substrate surface. The continuous flow function includes a fluid path arranged for flowing a fluid therethrough. The discrete flow and continuous flow functions may be by a barrier, including a second fluid path through the barrier. The continuous flow function may include a capture surface comprising a component having an affinity for the target substance. Methods of the invention may include flowing a fluid comprising the target substance through the fluid path; capturing the target substance on the capture surface; and forming a droplet in the discrete flow region via the second fluid path and the electrodes comprising the captured target substance.
US08317989B2 Electrochemical sensor
An electrochemical sensor is provided that includes a housing having an outer wall, an axial bore circumscribed by the outer wall, and a barrier wall that aids in defining a reference cavity. The housing further including a plurality of cross members in spaced relation to one another disposed between the axial bore and the outer wall, each cross member defining an aperture. A junction plug is disposed at the distal end of the housing. The junction plug comprises a porous material that enables ionic flow through the junction plug. The sensor enables ionic communication between the target fluid and the reference electrode within the reference cavity through the apertures of the plurality of cross members. In this manner, the sensor provides generally a long, tortuous flow path, or salt bridge, between the target fluid and the reference electrode, resulting in a high resistance factor for the sensor.
US08317987B2 Non-permeable substrate carrier for electroplating
One embodiment relates to a substrate carrier for use in electroplating a plurality of substrates. The substrate carrier comprises a non-conductive carrier body on which the substrates are to be held. Electrically-conductive lines are embedded within the carrier body, and a plurality of contact clips are coupled to the electrically-conductive lines embedded within the carrier body. The contact clips hold the substrates in place and electrically couple the substrates to the electrically-conductive lines. The non-conductive carrier body is continuous so as to be impermeable to flow of electroplating solution through the non-conductive carrier body. Other embodiments, aspects and features are also disclosed.
US08317983B1 Laser ablation for the synthesis of carbon nanotubes
Single walled carbon nanotubes are produced in a novel apparatus by the laser-induced ablation of moving carbon target. The laser used is of high average power and ultra-fast pulsing. According to various preferred embodiments, the laser produces and output above about 50 watts/cm2 at a repetition rate above about 15 MHz and exhibits a pulse duration below about 10 picoseconds. The carbon, carbon/catalyst target and the laser beam are moved relative to one another and a focused flow of “side pumped”, preheated inert gas is introduced near the point of ablation to minimize or eliminate interference by the ablated plume by removal of the plume and introduction of new target area for incidence with the laser beam. When the target is moved relative to the laser beam, rotational or translational movement may be imparted thereto, but rotation of the target is preferred.
US08317980B2 Reactor for converting waste materials into fuel, a feeding system for feeding waste materials into the reactor, and methods for converting waste materials into fuel
A reactor having a shaft protruding through one end, a fuel output tube protruding through a second end, shovels housed inside, and a discharge tube, is provided. A first end of the discharge tube is inside of the reactor and the second end protrudes out of the fuel output tube. A helix thruster can be inside the discharge tube and have a driver shaft with a first gear inside of the reactor. The reactor can also include a residue collector and a fork. The fork can be disposed on a driven shaft including a second gear, which engages the first gear of the helix thruster. A system for feeding materials into the reactor is also disclosed as well as methods of converting waste plastic or rubber into fuel using the reactor.
US08317978B1 Nitriding of carbon nanotubes
A method of fabricating a non-brittle, carbon nanopaper from single wall, multiwall, and combination thereof, from carbon nanotubes, using a vacuum deposition, high temperature annealing, and polystyrene polymer rinse process; which nanopaper can be nitrided by either a plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) process, or an by an electrochemical method, to obtain a useful chemically functionalized substrate, a substrate containing metastable N4, N8, and longer chain polymeric nitrogen clusters. Such nitrided carbon nanopaper can be used to enhance the ballistic performance of gun propellants, while reducing gun barrel wear and erosion thereof.
US08317977B2 Methods of forming a reinforced parchmented nonwoven product
This specification is generally related to reinforced, parchmented paper, composite, reinforced parchmented paper and methods of manufacture thereof. The reinforced, parchmented paper may be used to form a sausage casing.
US08317972B2 Method and apparatus for optical fiber coating removal
A method for removing a protective coating material from a portion of an optical fiber including a glass optical fiber having an outer surface surrounded by said protective coating material, said method comprising the steps of: (i) providing a fiber collection and support device having: (a) a coarse conical fiber collector having an input port and (b) a fine fiber centering collector including a fiber tube having an output port, said input port is larger then said output port; (ii) providing the fiber threaded through the course conical collector into the fiber collection tube of the fine fiber centering collector; (iii) contacting the fiber, as it exits from the output port of the fiber collection tube of the fiber collection and support device, with a stream of hot gas; and (iv) directing a stream of a hot gas onto the protective coating material that is to be removed.
US08317966B2 Apparatus for substantially uniform fluid flow rates relative to a proximity head in processing of a wafer surface by a meniscus
Conditioning fluid flow into a proximity head is provided for fluid delivery to a wafer surface. An upper plenum connected to a plurality of down flow bores is supplied by a main bore. The down flow bores provide fluid into the upper plenum, and a resistor bore is connected to the upper plenum. The resistor bore receives a resistor having a shape so as to limit flow of the fluid through the resistor bore. A lower plenum connected to the resistor bore is configured to receive fluid from the resistor bore as limited by the resistor for flow to a plurality of outlet ports extending between the lower plenum and surfaces of the head surface. Fluid flowing through the upper plenum, the resistor bore with the resistor and the lower plenum is substantially conditioned to define a substantially uniform fluid outflow from the plurality of outlet ports, across the width of the proximity head.
US08317964B2 Method of manufacturing a vehicle
A method of manufacturing a vehicle. A set of vehicle body structure components is assembled with interlocking mating features.
US08317958B2 Method for producing single- or multi-layered fiber preforms by the TFP process
A method for producing single- or multi-layered fiber preforms by the TFP process with fiber strands, aligned substantially to be oriented with the flux of force, laid on a backing layer and attached by fixing threads, to form a fiber preform with a desired material thickness and without a backing layer. A release layer is applied at least in certain regions to the backing layer and, after completion of the TFP process, the fiber preform is introduced into a fixing device, in which at least some of the fixing threads are melted. Subsequently the backing layer, separated from the fiber preform by the release layer, is detached from the fiber preform. The fiber preforms have a virtually optimum fiber structure without flaws along with a desired material thickness and are predestined for the production of composite components for load-bearing components that must withstand high mechanical loads.
US08317953B2 Family of metastable intermolecular composites utilizing energetic liquid oxidizers with nanoparticle fuels in sol-gel polymer network
A new process for forming MICs as well as three exemplary categories of MIC formulations is disclosed. MICs disclosed herein include a first exemplary category for which combustion can be initiated and sustained by either a heat (flame) source or electrical power, a second exemplary category of formulations that can be ignited and that sustain combustion at low pressures only with electrical power and a third exemplary category of formulations that can be ignited and extinguished at low pressures only with electrical power. The new process of MIC formulation provides energetic liquid oxidizers in place of traditional solvents, thus eliminating the need for solvent extraction. The energetic liquid oxidizer serves as a medium in which to suspend and grow the 3D nanostructure formed by the cross linked polymer (PVA). As a consequence, the 3D nanostructure entraps the liquid oxidizer, preventing it from evaporating and thereby eliminating the need for solvent extraction, preserves the 3D nanostructure shape. Further, the liquid oxidizer matrix produces provides a mechanism through which ignition and combustion may be controlled. The material combustion rate may be adjusted/throttled through adjustments in the amount electrical power supply and may even be extinguished by complete removal of the electrical power supply. Repeated on/off ignition/extinguishment is possible through repeated application and removal of electrical current.
US08317946B2 Seamless steel pipe and method for manufacturing the same
A seamless steel pipe of a low-alloy steel consisting, by mass %, of C: 0.10 to 0.20%, Si: 0.05 to 1.0%, Mn: 0.05 to 1.2%, Ni: 0.02 to 1.5%, Cr: 0.50 to 1.50%, Mo: 0.50 to 1.50%, Nb: 0.002 to 0.10%, Al: 0.005 to 0.10%, and either or both of Ti: 0.003 to 0.050% and V: 0.01 to 0.20%, the balance being Fe and impurities, the impurities containing 0.025% or less of P, 0.005% or less of S, 0.007% or less of N, and less than 0.0003% of B, wherein the tensile strength is 950 MPa or more and the yield strength is 850 MPa or more, and the Charpy absorbed energy at −40° C. is 60 J or more. This seamless steel pipe may further contain one or more of Cu: 0.02 to 1.0%, Ca: 0.0005 to 0.0050%, and Mg: 0.0005 to 0.0050%. The present invention also provides a method for manufacturing the above-described seamless steel pipe.
US08317940B2 Erosion resistant cermet linings for oil and gas exploration, refining and petrochemical processing applications
The present invention is directed to a method for protecting metal surfaces in oil & gas exploration and production, refinery and petrochemical process applications subject to solid particulate erosion at temperatures of up to 1000° C. The method includes the step of providing the metal surfaces in such applications with a hot erosion resistant cermet lining or insert, wherein the cermet lining or insert includes a) about 30 to about 95 vol % of a ceramic phase, and b) a metal binder phase, wherein the cermet lining or insert has a HEAT erosion resistance index of at least 5.0 and a K1C fracture toughness of at least 7.0 MPa-m1/2. The metal surfaces may also be provided with a hot erosion resistant cermet coating having a HEAT erosion resistance index of at least 5.0.
US08317936B2 Steam dish washer
A dish washer which includes a steam generator. The dish washer, for example, may comprise a tub to provide a room for dishes for washing, a sump to hold water for supplying to the tub for the washing; a steam generator to generate steam, a first tube (or a steam tube) to provide a passage for the steam from the steam generator to the tub, and a valve to release the steam or water from the steam generator according to a pressure.
US08317935B2 Dishwasher apparatus including sound absorbing device
A dishwasher apparatus includes a cover member and a sound absorbing device. The sound absorbing device comprises a sound absorbing element attached to the cover member and a motor guard attached to the sound absorbing element. A portion of the motor guard is positioned between a portion of the motor and a portion of the sound absorbing element.
US08317933B2 Automatic coin-operated or electronic card-operated washing machine and dryer for helmets
An automatic coin—or electronic card—operated washing machine and dryer for helmets, which operates as an automatic and autonomous vending service machine and combines the quick and effective washing of a helmet with the protection of its parts and units and comprises a body (1), where the washing chamber (2) is located. The washing chamber (2), where all cleaning operations of the helmet take place, is supplied with a waterproof gate (17) which is connected thereto. The washing chamber (2) is connected to the brush and spraying mechanism, the wring mechanism (11) and the drying mechanism. The invented washing machine is connected to the water supply through a pipe (4), a water discharge pipe (3) the operation thereof is electronically controlled by an operation control system (14) which is connected to a main server (via a modem).
US08317929B2 Lithographic apparatus comprising an electrical discharge generator and method for cleaning an element of a lithographic apparatus
A method for cleaning elements of a lithographic apparatus, for example optical elements such as a collector mirror, includes providing a gas containing nitrogen; generating nitrogen radicals from at least part of the gas, thereby forming a radical containing gas; and providing at least part of the radical containing gas to the one or more elements of the apparatus. A lithographic apparatus includes a source and an optical element, and an electrical discharge generator arranged to generate a radio frequency discharge.
US08317928B1 Lignin production from lignocellulosic biomass
Methods are disclosed for providing lignin product of a small particle size for improving burning efficiency and for avoiding typical equipment fouling problems while maximizing energy recovery.
US08317927B2 Systems and methods for sealing in site-isolated reactors
Substrate processing systems and methods are described for site-isolated processing of substrates. The processing systems include numerous site-isolated reactors (SIRs). The processing systems include a reactor block having a cell array that includes numerous SIRs. A sleeve is coupled to an interior of each of the SIRs. The sleeve includes a compliance device configured to dynamically control a vertical position of the sleeve in the SIR. A sealing system is configured to provide a seal between a region of a substrate and the interior of each of the SIRs. The processing system can include numerous modules that comprise one or more site-isolated reactors (SIRs) configured for one or more of molecular self-assembly and combinatorial processing of substrates.
US08317924B2 Gas treatment apparatus, gas treatment method, and storage medium
Disclosed is a gas treatment apparatus which can reduce the useless liquid quantity without using an expensive device, such as the evaporator or the mass flowmeter. The control mechanism performs control for exhausting the raw material storage container to make the raw material storage container have a predetermined vacuum pressure, stopping exhaustion to make the raw material storage container be in a sealed state, making the inside of the raw material storage container have the treatment gas atmosphere formed by gasifying the liquid raw material by the vacuum pressure within the raw material storage container, exhausting the chamber to make the chamber have a predetermined vacuum pressure in a state where the target substrate is received in the chamber, stopping the exhaustion to make the inside of the chamber be in a sealed state, opening the opening/closing valve to introduce the treatment gas from the raw material storage container to the chamber, and closing the opening/closing valve when the inside pressure of the chamber reaches a treatment pressure that is higher than the vacuum pressure and lower than a vapor pressure of the liquid raw material to make the chamber have the treatment gas atmosphere of the treatment pressure.
US08317922B2 Gas injection unit and thin film deposition apparatus having the same
A gas injection unit and a thin film deposition apparatus having the gas injection unit are provided. Since a variety of different kinds of organic materials can be sequentially vaporized and injected by a single injection unit, a variety of different kinds of thin films can be deposited in a single chamber. Furthermore, the gas injection structure of the injector unit can be easily controlled. Therefore, even when the process conditions such as the size of the substrate, the process temperature of the chamber, and the like are altered, it becomes possible to actively response to the altered process conditions by simply replacing some parts without replacing the whole injector unit.
US08317920B2 Directional solidification furnace for reducing melt contamination and reducing wafer contamination
A directional solidification furnace includes a crucible for holding molten silicon and a lid covering the crucible and forming an enclosure over the molten silicon. The crucible also includes an inlet in the lid for introducing inert gas above the molten silicon to inhibit contamination of the molten silicon.
US08317919B2 System for continuous growing of monocrystalline silicon
An improved system based on the Czochralski process for continuous growth of a single crystal ingot comprises a low aspect ratio, large diameter, and substantially flat crucible, including an optional weir surrounding the crystal. The low aspect ratio crucible substantially eliminates convection currents and reduces oxygen content in a finished single crystal silicon ingot. A separate level controlled silicon pre-melting chamber provides a continuous source of molten silicon to the growth crucible advantageously eliminating the need for vertical travel and a crucible raising system during the crystal pulling process. A plurality of heaters beneath the crucible establish corresponding thermal zones across the melt. Thermal output of the heaters is individually controlled for providing an optimal thermal distribution across the melt and at the crystal/melt interface for improved crystal growth. Multiple crystal pulling chambers are provided for continuous processing and high throughput.
US08317916B1 Set retardant for hydraulic cement compositions
A zinc-oxide based set retardant additive and admixture for use in Portland cement or other hydraulic cement mixtures. The admixture may comprise silica fume, vitreous calcium aluminosilicate, magnesium aluminum silicate hydrate, a cellulose ether derivative, or their equivalents. The zinc-oxide based set retardant may be interground or pre-blended, pre-packaged, or added on the jobsite, as an admixture, additive, or addition. The zinc-based set retardant may be subsequently added or mixed into a ready mix or wet mixture of portland cement or other hydraulic cement, sand and/or aggregate, with or without fillers, and water, with or without other pozzolans or polymers.
US08317910B2 Immersion platinum plating solution
A platinum plating solution for immersion plating a continuous film of platinum on a metal structure. The immersion platinum plating solution is free of a reducing agent. The plating process does not require electricity (e.g., electrical current) and does not require electrodes (e.g., anode and/or cathode). The solution includes a platinum source and a complexing agent including Oxalic Acid. The solution enables immersion plating of platinum onto a metal surface, a metal substrate, or a structure of which at least a portion is a metal. The resulting platinum plating comprises a continuous thin film layer of platinum having a thickness not exceeding 300 Å. The solution can be used for plating articles including but not limited to jewelry, medical devices, electronic structures, microelectronics structures, MEMS structures, nano-sized or smaller structures, structures used for chemical and/or catalytic reactions (e.g., catalytic converters), and irregularly shaped metal surfaces.
US08317907B2 Water vapor transfer assembly
A water vapor transfer assembly for a fuel cell system includes at least one water vapor transfer device. The water vapor transfer device permits a transfer of water from a wet stream to a dry stream. The water vapor transfer device is disposed between a pair of end plates. The end plates each have a plurality of outwardly extending ribs. The water vapor transfer device and the end plates are disposed within a housing having a pair of wet stream apertures and a pair of dry stream apertures formed therein. The housing further includes a plurality of channels formed adjacent the dry stream apertures. The channels are in fluid communication with the wet stream apertures. The outwardly extending ribs of the end plates cooperate with the channels to define a tortuous bypass flow path between the wet stream apertures of the housing.
US08317903B2 Treatment of contaminated gases
A contaminant is removed from a gas in a method in which the gas is contacted with a solvent for the contaminant, and the resultant solution is contacted with intercalated graphite onto which the contaminant is adsorbed. The solvent will normally comprise water, and may itself be a contaminated liquid. In a preferred method the solvent is in a reservoir with particulate intercalated graphite; the contaminated gas is delivered to the base of the reservoir; and the gas rises in the solvent mobilizing the intercalated graphite in the reservoir.
US08317897B2 Method for supersonically injecting oxygen into a furnace
The invention relates to a method and device for supersonically injecting oxygen into a furnace, in particular a cupola furnace, in which the total oxygen required for the furnace operation is injected with the aid of two distinct circuits, i.e., the first circuit comprising at least one supersonic oxygen injecting nozzle and a second circuit which comprises additionally oxygen injecting means and is connected to the first circuit by pressure-sensitive means, such as a discharging device (or upstream pressure adjuster), in such a way that a stable pressure is obtained in the first circuit upon the attainment of the maximum flowrate thereof, wherein the first circuit can consists of several supersonic nozzle groups.
US08317890B2 Filter assembly; components therefor; and, methods
Air filter assemblies and components therefor are described. The air filter assembly typically includes an air filter cartridge. Air filter cartridges including a media pack comprising at least a first stack of single facer strips are described. In examples described, at least a portion of the first stack of single facer strips is arcuate. Air filter assemblies are characterized that are configured, for example, to advantageously use such air filter cartridges. Example air filter assemblies are described that include pulse jet air cleaning systems.
US08317889B2 Installation structure for dustproof net
Disclosed is an installation structure for a dustproof net to be arranged in a machine, which has an engine, a cooling fan for producing cooling air to cool the engine, plural heat exchangers arranged on an upstream side of the cooling fan, and a compartment with the engine, cooling fan and plural heat exchangers accommodated therein, such that the dustproof net is arranged at a position on a side upstream of the heat exchanger located most upstream among the plural heat exchanger relative to a flow of air drawn in by the cooling fan and in isolation from the most upstream heat exchanger to remove dust contained in the air drawn in by the cooling fan. The dustproof net is provided with a support structure for supporting the dustproof net on members that form the compartment.
US08317887B2 Mixture to add odour to an odourless combustible gas
Mixture to be employed specifically as an agent for adding an odour to a gaseous combustible fuel such as natural gas, consisting of: at least one alkyl acrylate (I) of which the alkyl radicals contain from one to 12 carbon atoms; at least on compound of formula (II) in a quantity sufficient to inhibit the polymerization of the alkyl acrylate or acrylates(I) in the presence and/or absence of oxygen.
US08317885B2 Apparatus for gasifying fuel with a dripper edge and heat shield
The invention provides an apparatus for gasifying a fuel to form synthesis gas wherein also a slag is formed. The apparatus comprises: a pressure shell; a slag bath; a gasifier wall; a free-fall trajectory for slag; and a heat shield. The gasifier wall is arranged inside the pressure shell defining a gasification chamber. It comprises a converging wall part that is provided with a slag discharge opening, located above the quench fluid in the slag bath. The heat shield is arranged above the slag bath between the free-fall trajectory and the pressure shell. The heat shield has a wall structure for allowing passage of a cooling fluid, the wall structure comprising an upper wall part and a lower wall part. The lower wall part of the heat shield is essentially refractory free.
US08317883B1 Production of stable pyrolysis bio-oil from mustard family seeds, mustard family seed presscake, and defatted mustard family seed presscake
Bio-oil from a feedstock selected from mustard family seeds, mustard family seed presscake, mustard family seed defatted presscake, and mixtures thereof. The bio-oil is produced by a method involving (1) pyrolyzing the feedstock to produce bio-oil, bio-char and non-condensable gases, (2) removing the bio-char from the bio-oil, (3) condensing the bio-oil, and (4) precipitating the bio-oil.
US08317882B2 Method of manufacturing a planar electrode with large surface area
A method for fabricating a pair of large surface area planar electrodes. The method includes forming a first template above a first substrate, the first template having a first plurality of pores, coating the first plurality of pores of the first template with a first layer of conducting material to form a first electrode, placing the first plurality of pores of the first electrode in proximity to a second electrode, thereby forming a gap between the first plurality of pores and the second electrode, and filling the gap with an electrolyte material.
US08317881B2 Composition and method for levelling hair colour
The present invention relates to a composition and a method of levelling hair color especially lighter colored hair or including lightened streaks or bleached streaks or bleached as a whole and after certain period of time contrast—difference in color—between the re-growth and formerly lightened parts is clearly visible. The first objective of the present invention is an aqueous composition for levelling hair color comprising at least one fatty acid salt, preferably an in-situ formed ammonium salt, and one or more amphoteric surfactants at a total concentration between 5 and 30% by weight, calculated to total of the composition, and has a pH between 5 and 12. Further the use of the composition for levelling hair color and the method of levelling hair color are disclosed.
US08317880B2 Composition and method for levelling hair colour
The present invention relates to a composition and a method of levelling hair color, especially lighter colored hair or including lightened streaks or bleached streaks or bleached as a whole and after certain period of time contrast—difference in color—between the re-growth and formerly lightened parts is clearly visible. The first objective of the present invention is an aqueous composition for levelling hair color comprising at least one fatty acid salt, preferably an in-situ formed ammonium salt, and one or more anionic surfactants at a total concentration between 5 and 30% by weight, calculated to total of the composition, and has a pH between 5 and 12. Furthermore, use of the composition for levelling hair color and a method of levelling hair color are disclosed.
US08317879B2 Reduced smoking textile care detergents
The present invention provides compositions and methods to reduce smoking and/or haze during a heated laundry process. The compositions include a smoke reducing surfactant package and a detersive surfactant containing an amount of free alcohol. The smoke reducing surfactant package includes an anionic surfactant, an amphoteric surfactant or mixtures thereof. The surfactants are selected such that the amount of smoke or haze produced is reduced and or eliminated when garments contacted with the compositions containing the surfactants are heated to at least about 250° F. Methods of using the compositions are also provided.
US08317876B2 Artificial foot
The invention relates to an artificial foot with a connecting part for a lower leg part, a forefoot part which is pivotably connected to the connecting part by means of an upper coupling element and a lower coupling element in such a way that an angular position of the connecting part controls an angular position of the forefoot part, one of the coupling elements extending into a heel area of the foot.
US08317874B2 Orthopedic fluid damper and method
The invention relates to an orthopaedic aid, in particular to a prosthesis (58) or orthosis comprising an orthopaedic fluid damper (10) with a displacement chamber (14) formed in a housing (12), with a piston (16) mounted in the displacement chamber (14), with a fluid reservoir for a fluid (20), with a return flow conduit (22) connecting the displacement chamber (14) to the fluid reservoir, with a valve (24) that can adopt an open position and a closed position, in which it at least partially closes the return flow conduit (22), and with a joint (72) that has a first branch (60) and a second branch (66), wherein the first branch (60) is connected to the housing (12) and the second branch (66) is connected to the piston (16). A device (84) is also provided for detecting a joint force (FB) acting on the joint, which device (84) is designed to bring the valve (24) to the closed position when the joint force (FB) exceeds a predefined threshold value. The invention also relates to a method for control of the aid and a fluid damper (10) fitted therein.
US08317871B2 Modular humeral head resurfacing system
A two piece humeral component for use in joint arthroplasty which is adapted to be implanted into a joint and engaged by a socket component of the joint. The joint component includes a body having a first articulating surface and a second medial surface opposite the first articulating surface. The first articulating surface is adapted to be engaged by the socket and the second medial surface is adapted to be secured to mounting portion. The mounting portion has a first surface and a second medial surface. The first surface is adapted to be fixably engaged to the second mounting portion of the humeral component. The second medial surface is adapted to be secured to the humerus. A peg which has a first end adapted to engage a cavity found in the humerus is disposed on the mounting portion's second medial surface.
US08317864B2 Systems and methods for posterior dynamic stabilization of the spine
Devices, systems and methods for dynamically stabilizing the spine are provided. The devices include an expandable spacer or member having an unexpanded configuration and an expanded configuration, wherein the expandable member in an expanded configuration has a size, volume and/or shape configured for positioning between the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae in order to distract the vertebrae relative to each other. The systems include one or more expandable members and a mechanical actuation means for expanding the expandable member. The methods involve the implantation of one or more devices or expandable spacers.
US08317863B2 Flexible tibial sheath
A radially expandable sheath is provided having a substantially closed distal end with at least two sidewalls extending proximally therefrom and defining a central lumen. Each sidewall can have a substantially concave outer surface adapted to seat a graft member, and each side wall is at least partially separated by a longitudinally oriented slot that extends from a proximal end along a substantial length of each sidewall. The slot preferably terminates at a position just proximal to the distal end. The device can also include a sheath expander that is adapted to be disposed in the central lumen of the radially expandable sheath and that is configured to flex the sidewalls to radially expand the sheath so as to fix a graft member within a bone tunnel.
US08317862B2 Method for replacing a ligament in a knee
A method of providing a replacement anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) provides a tibial tunnel and at least one femoral tunnel for receiving the replacement ligament, the femoral and tibial tunnels not being colinear but rather in an orientation that more closely mimics the natural ACL. The femoral tunnel is formed through the anterior medial portal. A cross pinning guide having a femoral rod for insertion into the femoral tunnel, a spaced apart arc shaped track and a guide block having one or more bores aligned with the femoral rod whereby an instrument inserted through one of the bores creates a pilot hole for the cross pin which intersects the femoral tunnel and an appropriate angle thereof which avoids ligaments and other sensitive tissue can be selected by adjusting the guide block along the track.
US08317861B2 Antimicrobial indwelling voice prosthesis
A voice prosthesis comprising a tubular body portion, a valve and a valve seat disposed within the body portion. The valve seat is further comprised of a medical grade elastomer containing a dispersion of an antimicrobial agent. This valve seat extends the life of the prosthesis by retarding the growth of microorganisms. The body portion of the prosthesis may also contain an antimicrobial agent at a concentration that is non-toxic to the tissue it contacts.
US08317859B2 Devices and methods for controlling expandable prostheses during deployment
Prosthesis delivery devices and methods are provided that enable precise control of prosthesis position during deployment. The catheter for delivering a prosthesis to a treatment site in a body lumen typically carries one or more self-expanding tubular prostheses within a sheath. A radially expandable control member is positionable within the prostheses and has an expanded shape which engages an inner surface of the prostheses to urge the prostheses outwardly against the sheath. The radially expandable control member therefore controls axial position of the prostheses during deployment. Thus one or more prostheses may be deployed at a treatment site precisely. When multiple prostheses are deployed, excessive spacing or overlap between adjacent prostheses is minimized. The prostheses of the present invention are often deployed in stenotic lesions in peripheral arteries as well as coronary arteries and other body lumens.
US08317856B2 Multi-component expandable supportive bifurcated endoluminal grafts and methods for using same
A multiple-component expandable endoluminal system for treating a lesion at a bifurcation including a self expandable tubular root member having a side-looking engagement aperture, a self expandable tubular trunk member comprising a substantially blood impervious polymeric liner secured therealong; both having a radially compressed state adapted for percutaneous intraluminal delivery and a radially expanded state adapted for endoluminal support.
US08317853B2 Prosthetic valve with external support frame
Prosthetic valves, methods of making medical devices, and methods of treatment are provided. The prosthetic valves of the invention have a valve portion moveable between first and second positions, and a spacing member that has a thickness and protects a portion of the valve portion from contact with a wall of a vessel in which the prosthetic valve is implanted, and/or another structural component of the prosthetic valve, such as a support frame.
US08317852B2 Stent having helical elements
An expandable stent comprised of a plurality of helical segments is disclosed. In one embodiment, the stent is generally cylindrical in shape having a cylindrical axis, and comprises a first and second set of helical segments. The helical segments in the first set are substantially parallel and have a first pitch forming a first helical angle with respect to the cylindrical axis. The helical segments in the second set are also generally parallel to each other and form a second pitch that differs from the first pitch, thereby forming a second helical angle with respect to the cylindrical axis. In an alternative embodiment, the stent comprises one set of helical segments and a plurality of circumferential elements that are joined together by the helical segments to form a plurality of cylindrical elements which are joined together to form a stent body. The stent may also have endzones.
US08317851B2 Longitudinally flexible stent
An intravascular stent especially suited for implanting in curved arterial portions. The stent retains longitudinal flexibility after expansion. The stent is formed of intertwined meander patterns forming triangular cells. The triangular cells are adapted to provide radial support, and also to provide longitudinal flexibility after expansion. The triangular cells provide increased coverage of a vessel wall. The stent can have different portions adapted to optimize radial support or to optimize longitudinal flexibility. The stent can be adapted to prevent flaring of portions of the stent during insertion.
US08317845B2 Screw and method of use
A two-part screw system for use in bone repair and joint replacement includes a first portion and a second portion capable of mating with the first portion. The first portion includes a thread for engaging cancellous bone within a portion of a bone on one side of a fracture. The second portion is coupled to a retention mechanism that couples a portion of the bone on opposite sides of the fracture to a portion of the bone having the first portion of the two-part screw.
US08317844B2 Device for fixing a reference element
A device for fixing a reference element with respect to a field of surgery includes a first fixing portion operable to provide a mechanical resistance against pulling and/or pushing forces, a second fixing portion provided with a surface structure operable to secure the device against an angular force, and a coupling structure. The coupling structure is operative to mechanically couple the second fixing portion to the first fixing portion, wherein said second fixing portion can be pivoted with respect to the first fixing portion.
US08317838B2 System and method for minimally invasive posterior fixation
The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for aligning and implanting orthopedic fixation or stabilization implants within the body. In one embodiment, the system includes at least two bone anchors, at least one of which is provided with an angularly adjustable connector. In one aspect, the system also includes at least one linkage rod, for linking two or more bone anchors through their respective adjustable connectors. The bone anchors and the linkage rod may be locked into place to form a spinal fusion or fixation prosthesis. An alignment tool is provided, for guiding a guidewire through one or more connectors.
US08317836B2 Bone anchor for receiving a rod for stabilization and motion preservation spinal implantation system and method
A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.
US08317833B2 Elongated stabilization member and bone anchor useful in bone and especially spinal repair processes
The elongated stabilization member comprises a composite rod (R) having a uniform cross-section essentially throughout its length. The rod (R) has at least first and second segments (A, B, C) each of which has a different modulus of elasticity. Preferably the rod (R) is comprised of plastic with carbon fibers disposed therein and said first and second segments (A, B, C) have different orientation densities of fibers or lengths to provide said different moduli of elasticity.
US08317830B2 Orthopaedic screw system with linear motion
Devices, methods and systems for stabilizing at least a portion of the spinal column are provided. Devices include seats and coupling members for engaging an elongate member. Systems include an elongate member sized to span a distance between at least two vertebral bodies and being at least partially formed of a flexible material. One or more seats can include rollers to allow relative movement of the rod and the seat.
US08317825B2 Soft tissue conduit device and method
A method of conducting biological materials in soft tissue includes inserting an elongated conduit device into the soft tissue and through a defect in the soft tissue, and conducting biological materials along at least one longitudinal channel defined on an outer surface of the conduit device into the soft tissue. The conduit device is externally threaded.
US08317822B2 Systems and methods for closing a vessel wound
Vessel wound closure systems and method for sealing a puncture wound in a target vessel, such as those puncture wounds that occur from interventional procedures. The vessel wound closure system generally comprises an introducer, and a hydratable hemostatic membrane dislodgable from over a portion of the introducer to seal a vessel wound upon hydration of the membrane. The membrane may include a glaze on an outside surface thereof to help control hydration of the membrane.
US08317819B2 Slideable vascular filter
A collapsible medical device for use, e.g., as a vascular filter. The device includes a mandrel having a distal end and a stop spaced proximally of the distal end. A proximal length of the mandrel extends proximally of the stop and a distal length of the mandrel extends distally of the stop. A functional element (e.g., a vascular filter) has a radially expandable body and includes a proximal slider and a distal slider. The proximal and distal sliders are slidable along the mandrel independently of one another such that the distance between the proximal slider and distal slider can be varied to effect different configurations of the functional element. In one method of using such a device, the functional element is urged distally to a treatment site by urging the mandrel distally. This causes the stop to exert a distal biasing force on the distal slider, which acts against a restorative force of the functional element to axially elongate the functional element and reduce friction between the functional element and a wall of the vessel.
US08317817B2 Cannula for receiving surgical instruments
A cannula (10) receives surgical instruments (120) for performing a surgical procedure on a body (130). The cannula (10) comprises a tube structure (12) defining a passage (16) through which the surgical instruments (120) are inserted into the body (130). The tube structure (12) has a proximal end (20) and a distal end (62). The tube structure (12) includes an expandable portion (40) for enabling an increase in the cross-sectional area of the passage (16) at the distal end (62). The expandable portion (40) of the tube structure (12), when expanded, has a conical configuration.
US08317813B2 Device for acquiring a blood sample
A device for acquiring a blood sample comprising a lancet, a puncture drive having a drive rod coupled on the lancet, and a compression spring, which propels it is disclosed. A flywheel mass, which is mounted as to make it movable, is coupled to the drive rod. The flywheel mass can absorb kinetic energy during a propulsion phase and cause retraction of the lancet after reaching a maximum piercing depth. The flywheel mass can be a flywheel connected via a connecting rod to the drive rod and is set into rotation during propulsion of the lancet. After overcoming a dead center defining the maximum piercing depth, rotational energy stored in the flywheel causes the retraction of the lancet. At a specific angle, the rotation of the flywheel is stopped and the residual piercing depth is defined.
US08317809B2 Apparatus and method for performing a bypass procedure in a digestive system
Surgical instrumentation and methods for performing a bypass procedure in a digestive system incorporate laparoscopic techniques to minimize surgical trauma to the patient. The instrumentation includes an outer guide member dimensioned for insertion and passage through an esophagus of a patient and defining an opening therein extending at least along a portion of the length of the outer guide member, an elongate anvil delivery member at least partially disposed within the opening of the outer guide member and being adapted for longitudinal movement within the outer guide member between an initial position and an actuated position and an anvil operatively engageable with the delivery member. The anvil includes an anvil rod defining a longitudinal axis and an anvil head connected to the anvil rod. The anvil head is at least partially disposed within the opening of the outer guide member when in the initial position of the delivery member and is fully exposed from the distal end of the outer guide member upon movement of the delivery member to the actuated position.
US08317808B2 Device and method for rolling and inserting a prosthetic patch into a body cavity
This invention generally relates to minimal invasive surgery. More specifically the current invention relates to an apparatus especially adapted to fold prosthetic patches and to insert said patches into a body cavity through a cannula or an incision.
US08317807B1 Large bore vessel access and closure device
A medical tool includes an access tool and a dissecting obdurator that is placed within a lumen of the access tool. The dissecting obdurator comprises a body having a first edge, a second edge and a cross section, the cross section having a height dimension measured from the first edge to the second edge and a width dimension perpendicular to the height dimension, the height dimension is two or more times the width dimension. The tip of the dissecting obdurator is selectively flexible and coupled to a distal end of the body, the selectively flexible tip being more flexible bending in the axis of the width dimension than bending in the axis of the height dimension.
US08317805B2 Suturing device, system, and method
Improved medical suturing devices, systems, and methods may hold a suture needle at a fixed location relative to a handle of the device, allowing the surgeon to grasp and manipulate the handle of the suturing device to insert the needle through tissues in a manner analogous to use of a standard needle gripper. Cycling the handle from a closed position to an open position and back to the closed position may alternate the device between gripping the needle with a first clamp (for example, along a proximal portion of the needle) to gripping the needle with a second clamp (for example, along a distal portion of the needle) and optionally back to gripping with the first clamp, with the needle often staying at a substantially fixed location relative to the suturing device body.
US08317801B2 Method and apparatus for facilitating navigation of an implant
The present invention describes a targeting system suitable for guiding a biocompatible device to a target area within the body (in vivo) and method of using the same. The system includes a targeting member that is attached to the biocompatible device and may optionally include a steering material. The system includes a passer element located at the distal end of a wand. The wand includes a trigger like member adjacent a hand grip. Actuation of the trigger like member will result in a pivotal movement of the passer element that positions the targeting member such that the connected biocompatible device is positionable relative to the target area.
US08317797B2 Arthroplasty systems and methods for optimally aligning and tensioning a knee prosthesis
A combination of a first assembly for guiding resection of a femur and tibia of a knee joint and a second assembly including femoral and tibial knee components. The combination of the first assembly and the second assembly provides optimal placement and positioning of the femoral and tibial knee components to achieve near-normal knee kinematics and tension. The preparation for and placement of the prosthetic knee components provides medial-pivoting kinematics mimicking that of the natural knee thereby promoting improved outcome for the patient.
US08317796B2 Reduction tool
A reduction tool for use in posterior spinal fixation to facilitate insertion of a longitudinal spinal rod into a rod-receiving channel formed in a bone fixation element. The reduction tool preferably includes an outer tube sized and configured to transversely receive the spinal rod therethrough, the outer tube being operatively coupled to the bone fixation element, an inner tube operatively coupled to a locking cap and slidably disposed within the outer tube, and a rotatable sleeve for rotatably advancing the inner tube with respect to the outer tube to advance the spinal rod into the rod-receiving channel formed in the bone fixation element and to couple the locking cap to the bone fixation element to thereby secure the rod within the bone fixation element.
US08317795B2 System and method of bone compression and fixation
A tension member installation and tensioning device and method for stabilizing a bone are provided. The device includes a barrel that houses a tension member with a leading element attached to the leading end of the tension member. The barrel of the device is inserted into a hole drilled through a bone until the barrel is beyond the distal cortex of the bone. The leading element is then engaged with the distal cortex. The leading element may be released from within the barrel or otherwise expanded to engage the distal cortex. The barrel is then retracted from the hole, and tension is applied to the tension member via a tensioning mechanism to attach a terminal element to a trailing portion of the tension member when a predetermined tension is achieved. The device may include a trigger for actuating the tensioning mechanism and a cutter for severing the tension member.
US08317794B2 Device for preparing a space in bone to receive an insert
A device and method for use in a human spine to prepare a space between adjacent vertebral bodies and into the vertebral end plates to receive an implantable insert. The device includes a handle, a shaft, and a mounting member at one end of the shaft. An abrading element is mounted on the mounting member and is coupled to a drive mechanism. The drive mechanism is operable to move the abrading element in at least one degree of freedom to create surfaces having predetermined contours in the end plates of the adjacent vertebral bodies.
US08317793B2 Cutting instrument and method of use for preparing an osteochondral plug for implantation
A cutting instrument and method of use for preparing an osteochondral plug for implantation into a bone defect site. The instrument includes a dual function cutting block, a base holder, a rod mechanism and a trimming mechanism. The cutting block has a bore sized to receive the plug, at least one trimming channel and a transverse paring slot. The cutting block functions to hold the plug within the bore to allow for length and cross-sectional sizing. The base holder is constructed to fix the cutting block in a first orientation that allows the rod mechanism to position the plug within the cutting block for accurate length sizing. The base holder is also constructed to fix the cutting block in a second orientation which aligns the cutting block with the trimming mechanism so that an angled blade may engage the trimming channel and cut at least two sides of the plug.
US08317788B2 Intramedullary pin for insertion into the medullary space of a femur
An intramedullary pin for insertion into the medullary space of the femur through the lateral compacta of the trochanter major. The pin has a proximal pin section and an adjoining distal pin section. Each pin section includes one or more bores for one or more bone screws. The proximal pin section has at least one bore running obliquely to the longitudinal axis, so that bone screws can be inserted through the bore into the head of the femur, or a screw can be inserted in the antegrade direction through the bore. The distal pin section is at least partly straight and the proximal pin section has a curvature in the lateral-posterior direction.
US08317787B2 Tissue fusion jaw angle improvement
A bipolar forceps for sealing tissue includes an end effector assembly having opposing first and second jaw members. Each of the jaw members includes an electrode having an electrically conductive tissue sealing surface. An electrical energy source may be connected to the tissue sealing surfaces so that the sealing surfaces can conduct energy to tissue. A pivot mechanism is operably connected to the jaw members and configured to allow selective movement of the jaw members relative to one another from a first spaced apart position to a second position. The pivot mechanism is configured to promote substantially parallel movement of the jaw members through a range of motion between the first position and the second position.
US08317786B2 System, method and apparatus for electrosurgical instrument with movable suction sheath
An electrosurgical instrument having active and return electrodes with a movable suction sheath for variable fluid and debris removal during surgical procedures is disclosed. The suction apparatus has an outer sheath that is external to a shaft to provide a lumen. The sheath assembly is axially movable relative to the fluid aspiration element between first and second positions for treating the target site and fluid and debris removal, respectively. The first position positions the distal end of the shaft axially distal to a leading edge of the sheath assembly. The second position positions the distal leading edge of the sheath assembly axially adjacent to the end of the shaft. The fluid aspiration element comprises an inner lumen extending through the shaft, and at least one port extending radially through the shaft. The port is in communication with the inner lumen. A vacuum provides suction through the port and inner lumen.
US08317784B2 Magnetic switching device
A magnetic switching device includes an electromagnetic component adapted to be arranged proximate to an exterior surface of an object having a magnetically-switchable device therein and a control circuit electrically connected to the electromagnetic component. The electromagnetic component is constructed to generate a magnetic field of sufficient strength and orientation to engage a switch in the magnetically-switchable device. The invention further includes an electrocautery system, including an electrocautery device, a control circuit electrically connected to the electrocautery device, and an electromagnetic component electrically connected to the control circuit. The electromagnetic component is adapted to be arranged proximate to an exterior surface of an object having a magnetically-switchable device therein. Operation of the electrocautery device causes the electromagnetic component to generate a magnetic field of sufficient strength to engage a switch in the magnetically-switchable device.
US08317781B2 Power supply for light-based dermatologic treatment device
Switching power supplies made in accordance with the disclosed technology drive flash lamps of dermatologic treatment devices to emit a sequence of relatively small light pulses that are aligned with particular locations within the waveform of the AC line source. Such power supplies not only enable sufficient light energy in aggregate to therapeutically heat target chromophores in a skin region without causing undesired damage to surrounding tissue, but also provide the added benefit that the corresponding electrical energy need not be substantially drawn from any charged capacitor. The disclosed power supply further compensates for performance degradation of the flash lamps during their usable life, by modifying its operation based on predetermined values that are indicative of flash lamp aging/efficiency characteristics. The flash lamps and their associated stored values are preferably incorporated into a replaceable cartridge that facilitates user maintenance of the dermatologic treatment device.
US08317774B2 Suction system
A system and method are disclosed for providing suction to a target area, in which suction is induced via pumping action in proximity to the target area via a pump head that is integral with an enclosure that is configured for covering the area. The pump head has an inlet that projects directly into the internal volume of the enclosure.
US08317772B2 Catheter with composite stiffener
A catheter comprising an elongate tubular member having a proximal end, a distal end, and a passageway defining a lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends. The elongate tubular member comprises a relatively stiff proximal section and a relatively flexible distal section. The proximal section includes an inner tubular liner, a first stiffener comprising a metal alloy, and a second stiffener comprising a non-metal alloy. The first and second stiffeners are coaxially wound exterior to the proximal inner liner. The distal section includes a distal inner tubular liner and the second stiffener coaxially wound exterior to the distal inner liner. The first stiffener terminates before reaching the distal section.
US08317771B2 Methods and systems for performing submucosal medical procedures
Instruments, systems and methods are provided for performing submucosal medical procedures in a desired area of the digestive tract using endoscopy. Instruments include safe access needle injection instruments incorporating electrosurgical capability, a submucosal tunneling instrument, a submucosal dissection instrument, a mucosal resection device. Systems include a combination of one or more of such instruments with or without injectable agents. Embodiments of various methods for performing the procedures are also provided.
US08317769B2 Absorbing article with folded side barriers
A sanitary napkin comprises an absorbent interposed between a liquid-permeable surface sheet and a liquid-impermeable back sheet and enlarged to have a larger absorbent width on the back end than that of a crotch portion, and stereo gathers on the two sides of the surface. The stereo gathers have one or more folded-back portions formed at positions on the back end of the vicinity of a body liquid discharging portion, and the sanitary napkin is made to have a larger width between the stereo gathers on the back end thereof than that at the body liquid discharging portion.
US08317768B2 Absorbent article
An absorbent article (1), such as an incontinence protector, sanitary napkin or the like, includes a liquid permeable top sheet (3), a backing sheet (4) and an absorbent core (5,6,7) enclosed therebetween. The absorbent core includes an upper absorbent layer (5) proximal to the top sheet and a lower absorbent layer (6) distal to the top sheet. An elongated hole (8) extending in the longitudinal direction of the article is made in the absorbent core. First and second elastic elements (9,10) attached to opposite lateral edges of the absorbent core (5,6,7) extend along the hole in a longitudinal direction and the top sheet (3) is affixed to the elastic elements and to the bottom of the hole (8).
US08317762B2 Skin patch for absorbing toxins from the body
A skin patch for absorbing toxins from a body includes a first side having a heat reflective foil. A second side includes a non-woven rayon surface for absorbing the toxins. The rayon surface includes a plurality of openings for enhancing far infrared ray emission into a skin when the second side is placed in contact with the skin. A mixture of natural ingredients includes vinegar, chitosan, loquat leaf, houttuynia cordata, vitamin C, tourmaline, vegetable fiber, and dextrin. The mixture is formulated to emit the far infrared emission, whereby blood circulation is promoted and perspiration and any toxins contained therein are absorbed by the rayon surface.
US08317759B2 Multi-position infusion set device and process
An infusion set for subcutaneous delivery of an infusant. The infusion set may include a base removably attachable to an infusion site and a connector temporarily lockable to the base. The connector can engage the base in a plurality of orientations. The connector locks into the base after at least partial rotation of the connector about the base. The connector may include flexible arms which unlock the connector from the base. The base includes a cannula for insertion through the infusion site. The connector includes a tubing for passing the infusant. The infusant is subcutaneously passable from the tubing through the cannula when the connector is attached to the base. The infusion set may also include a hub removably attachable to the base that includes a needle that extends through the base and the cannula and a guard removably attachable to the base opposite the hub for surrounding the needle.
US08317758B2 Stopcock valve
A medical stopcock which allows easier switching operation of plural branch-tubes. The main body of the stopcock comprises a chamber part with a nearly spherical inner surface, and an upstream branch-tube, a downstream branch-tube and a merge-branch-tube all extending from the chamber part. A valve body of the stopcock comprises a nearly spherical valve main body and a rod-shaped operating part with a guide hole linking the inner surface of the chamber part to the outside. In operation, the rod-shaped operating part is moved along the guide hole through the use of the horizontal flow passages and the vertical flow passage to allow the predetermined branch-tubes out of the upstream branch-tube, the downstream branch-tube and the merge-branch-tube to communicate with one another or to shut-off the communication.
US08317756B2 Self-contained pressurized injection device
An apparatus includes a medicament container and an actuator assembly coupled to a proximal end portion of the medicament container. A distal end portion of the medicament container is configured to be coupled to a needle. A piston is movably disposed within the medicament container such that the medicament container is divided into a first internal portion and a second internal portion, the first internal portion containing a medicament. The actuator assembly has a pressurized fluid container, a regulator and a bias member. The pressurized fluid container is configured to move relative to the medicament container between a first position and a second position. The regulator is configured to fluidically couple the pressurized fluid container and the second internal portion of the medicament container when the pressurized fluid container is in the second position. The bias member is configured to bias the pressurized fluid container in the first position.
US08317754B2 Valves and hubs for tubular devices and methods for making and using them
A hub for a sheath, catheter, or other tubular device includes a first hub portion including a first hub lumen sized for receiving a medical device therethrough, and a second hub portion including a second hub lumen, the second hub portion coupled to the first hub portion such that the first and second hub lumens are aligned with one another and the first and second hub portions are spaced apart from one another to define a gap. A valve is secured within the gap between the first and second hub portions that includes a valve passage therethrough, e.g., for accommodating receiving a medical device through the first and second hub lumens into the tubular device, while providing a substantially fluid tight seal.
US08317747B2 Catheter for tissue dilation and drug delivery
A combination dilatation and drug delivery device includes a flexible catheter, a drug delivery sheath mounted to a distal end region of the catheter and a dilatation balloon also mounted to the catheter and contained within a compartment formed by the sheath. The sheath is radially expandable by supplying a liquid therapeutic agent to the compartment under a moderate pressure. The dilatation balloon is expandable by providing a dilatation fluid to the balloon under a much higher pressure. The sheath can be formed of a highly elastic material or can be made quite thin, and in either case is mounted independently of the dilatation balloon. Thus when radially expanded, the sheath is moved into a conforming contact with surrounding vascular tissue. The conforming contact protects tissue and the therapeutic agent from exposure to blood, and more effectively confines the therapeutic agent to the intended treatment area. The sheath either is naturally porous or is provided with multiple pores, whereby the therapeutic agent perfuses through the sheath into the surrounding tissue.
US08317746B2 Automated alignment
Systems and method are disclosed whereby elongate medical instruments may be registered to adjacent tissue structures and other structures, and may be navigated and operated in a coordinated fashion to maximize ranges of motion, ease of use, and other factors. A method for registering an instrument relative to nearby structures may comprise moving a portion of the instrument between two in situ positions, tracking movement during this movement with both a kinematic model and also a localization sensor based configuration, determining the orientation of the tracked portion relative to both the instrument coordinate system used in the kinematic modeling and also a localization coordinate reference frame, and adjusting the orientation of the instrument coordinate reference frame to minimize the difference between determined orientations using the kinematic model and localization sensors. Methods and configurations for navigating coupled and registered instrument sets are also disclosed.
US08317745B2 Robotic catheter rotatable device cartridge
A robotic catheter rotatable device cartridge may include a housing member attachable to a drive mechanism for rotating the cartridge and a catheter attached to the cartridge along an axial direction of the catheter. A slider block may be generally slidable relative to the housing and engaged with one or more steering wires for controlling movement of the catheter in a transverse direction relative to the axial direction. The catheter may include the steering wire(s) engaged therewith and movable in the transverse direction when the slider block is linearly driven in a predetermined direction.
US08317739B2 Surgical system for controlling fluid
The invention relates to a surgical system for controlling a fluid. The system includes an irrigation line, which is connected at one end to a first fluid container for holding irrigation fluid, and which is connected at another end to a surgical handpiece. The system also includes an aspiration inlet line, which is provided from the surgical handpiece to an inlet of a suction pump, such that fluid can be sucked through the handpiece by the suction pump. The system further includes a second fluid container for holding the irrigation fluid, and an aspiration ventilation line, which connects the second fluid container to the aspiration inlet line. In addition, the system includes a venting valve, which is provided in the aspiration ventilation line and which can be switched as a function of a fluid pressure in the aspiration inlet line. The second fluid container can be filled via a filling line. The filling line is connected at one end to the irrigation line, and the filling line has a flow element with a constant hydraulic resistance of between 0.5 and 50.0 mmHg/(ml/min).
US08317736B2 Compression or support stocking
A compression or support stocking encases a human leg. The stocking has a first understocking and a first overstocking, each with a leg section and a foot section, which can be worn over each other, wherein the understocking has a continuous pressure progression in the area between measuring points B and B1, and the pressure at measuring point B1 amounts to 90%-100% of the pressure at measuring point B. The compression or support stocking can be used for treating Ulcus cruris venosum.
US08317735B2 Ankle support with calcaneous control strap
A foot support having straps which receive the calcaneous and wrap around the midfoot in a tensioned state for stabilizing the rearfoot and the midfoot to avoid excessive inversion and eversion of the foot.
US08317732B2 Motion assist device
Provided is a device capable of assisting a periodical motion of a creature, such as a human, by applying a force to the creature so as to match a motion rhythm and a motion scale of the periodical motion to a desired motion rhythm and a desired motion scale, respectively, while reducing computation processing load. According to a motion assist device (10) of the present invention, a value of a member or a coefficient contained in a simultaneous differential equation of a state variable (ui) for defining a second model which generates a second oscillator (ξ2) is adjusted by means of an adjusting device (14). The second oscillator (ξ2) is generated by the adjusted second model and a torque (T) applied to a human (P) is controlled to vary periodically according to the second oscillator (ξ2).
US08317727B2 Tissue removal device and method of use
A biopsy device for acquiring more than one tissue sample is disclosed. The biopsy device can have at least two tissue engaging elements, where at least one element contains a helical feature. A control mechanism can be used to spin an outer element relative to an internal element, resulting in transport of multiple tissue samples from the mass of tissue to an accessible collection chamber. The outer element may have a sharp distal end which may sever the samples from the mass of tissue. Samples may be stored sequentially in the collection chamber and be removed by the operator.
US08317720B2 Core-temperature based herd management system and method
A system and method for managing a herd of animals possibly requiring medical treatment, such as cows in a feedlot. The animals are herded individually into a chute, where identification data is collected from a tag, and core temperature data is collected using a special non-contacting core temperature sensor. The animal is tagged with a color coded tag representing a range of temperatures into which that animal's temperature falls. The animal is then delivered to a pen corresponding to that range of temperatures, where appropriate medicinal treatment is automatically dosed and applied to the animal.
US08317719B2 Apparatus and method for detecting lung sounds using an implanted device
Adventitious lung sounds indicative of lung congestion are detected using an implantable sensor. The sensor is adapted to be positioned adjacent to a pulmonary system and to output signals indicative of lung sounds in response to pulmonary system activity. A controller receives the signals and processes the signals to detect the presence of adventitious lung sounds. A respiratory cycle sensor operating in conjunction with the lung-sound sensor enables classification of an adventitious lung sound according to its time occurrence within the respiratory cycle. Posture sensing in conjunction with lung-sound sensing provides valuable additional information as to the severity of the lung congestion.
US08317718B2 Methods of testing digestive functions using both a breath test and a scintigraphy test, and methods of using a breath test as an overall digestive health assessment
Methods for assessing an overall digestive health of a patient are provided, which include administering a breath test that uses a label incorporated into proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids and further incorporating the labeled material into a meal which, when cooked, facilitates the binding of the label material to the solid phase matrix of the meal. Methods for assessing digestive functions of a patient are also provided, which includes concurrently administering a breath test and a scintigraphy test that measure gastric emptying in a stomach.
US08317715B2 Eccentric pressure catheter with guidewire compatibility
There is herein described a catheter for measuring a pressure in a cardiovascular system. The catheter comprises: a guiding tube adapted for insertion into the cardiovascular system. The guiding tube defines a lumen for sliding a guidewire therethrough. The catheter further comprises a tip pressure sensor eccentrically mounted relative to the guiding tube and a signal communication means extending therefrom. The tip pressure sensor is for sensing a pressure in the cardiovascular system and the signal communicating means is for transmitting a signal indicative of the pressure to a processing device in order to obtain a pressure measurement reading.
US08317713B2 Ultrasound catheter with rotatable transducer
An ultrasound catheter assembly having a rotatable transducer assembly is disclosed. The ultrasound catheter assembly includes an elongate flexible shaft having a lumen and a proximal end and a distal end. The catheter assembly further includes a drive member that engages the transducer assembly at a distal end of the catheter. Rotation of the drive member in a first direction causes the transducer assembly to rotate in an oscillatory fashion in a second direction.
US08317712B2 Retrospective dynamic transmit focusing for spatial compounding
An ultrasonic diagnostic imaging system transmits a plurality of focused beams normal to the plane of a transducer aperture and receives multiple receive lines in response to each transmitted beam. Sub-apertures of the transducer aperture are defined by apodization and signals of the sub-apertures are aligned and combined to produce signals exhibiting the effect of transmit steering at different angles with respect to the sub-apertures. The steered signals are detected and the detected signals relating to common points in an image field are combined. The combined detected signals are used to produce an ultrasound image with reduced speckle.
US08317709B2 Alignment and imaging of an eye with an ultrasonic scanner
A method and apparatus are disclosed for generating accurate and precise ultrasonic images of biological materials or animate objects, such as the cornea and lens of the eye, and, in particular, to an ultrasonic scanning apparatus that can position its virtual center of curvature such that its ultrasonic transducer will emit pulses that reflect substantially perpendicularly from a curved specular surface of interest within the eye. This invention can allow real time imaging of a lens as it accommodates and can better enable researchers and ophthalmic surgeons to develop, fit, implant and diagnose performance of accommodative lenses.
US08317695B2 Device to permit offpump beating heart coronary bypass surgery
A system for manipulating a heart during cardiac surgery permits coronary surgery on a beating heart while maintaining cardiac output unabated and uninterrupted. Circumflex coronary artery surgery can be performed using the system. A component of the system engages the heart with a heart positioning device, repositions the heart into a displaced position and maintains it in the displaced position while the heart continues to beat with substantially unabated and uninterrupted cardiac output. One form of the system can be used in minimally invasive surgery.
US08317692B2 Blade body for use with a surgical retractor
A blade system configured for use with a surgical retractor comprising a blade body and a blade body surround. The blade body includes a retractor attachment structure engagable with a blade body mounting structure of the surgical retractor. The retractor attachment structure is configured for allowing the blade body to be independently pivotable about and translatable along the blade body mounting structure. The blade body surround includes a slot within a sidewall thereof. The blade body surround and the blade body are jointly configured to form a generally cylindrical-shaped structure when the blade body is in a seated position within the slot.
US08317687B2 Endoscopy system and a pressure transmitting connector for said system
The inventive endoscopy system includes a cannula for arranging an endoscope and forming, between said cannula and endoscope, an irrigation or aspiration channel for transporting an irrigation or aspiration fluid, respectively, a connection ring mounted around the cannula and provided with a connection channel connectable to the irrigation or aspiration channel, respectively and a connector which is mounted on the connection ring and includes a transport channel with the connection channel and a first pressure sensor for detecting pressure in the transport channel. The connection ring is provided with a bypass circuit connectable to the irrigation or aspiration channel, respectively and the connector including a dead channel connectable to the bypass circuit and a second pressure sensor for detecting pressure in the dead channel.
US08317686B2 Endoscope
An endoscope includes a bending section for bending a bending portion, a manipulating section for operating the bending portion to bend the bending portion, a drive section for bending the bending portion with the bending section, a brake instruction section and a brake release instruction section, and a bend amount detecting section. In response to a brake instruction, the bend amount at a point in time the brake instruction was given is detected, and the drive section is so controlled as to maintain the bend amount whereas in response to a brake release instruction, the drive force of the drive section for maintaining the bend amount is gradually reduced.
US08317684B2 Endoscope and attaching method of connection mouth ring to end of endoscopic flexible tube
An endoscope includes a flexible tube having a helical tube in which a thin strip plate is helically wound, a braid tube covering the outside of the helical tube, and a flexible outer tube covering the outside of the braid tube, a connection mouth ring plastically deformed and fixed to an end of the flexible tube, and a helical tube displacement preventing portion which prevents displacement of the strip plate of the helical tube at the end of the flexible tube to which the connection mouth ring is fixed, when the connection mouth ring is fixed to the end of the flexible tube.
US08317683B2 Endoscope
An endoscope having a hollow shaft for inserting an image guide, so that the distal end of the shaft is configured at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the shaft and the shaft is closed at the distal end by means of an end piece provided with a pass-through borehole for the image guide. To create an endoscope with an image transmission system of sufficient image size and image quality that can be autoclaved for cleaning purposes, it is proposed with the invention that the image guide should be positioned in the shaft in such a way that the bending radius of the image guide in the area of the bending of the shaft is greater than the bending radius of the shaft in the area of the bending.
US08317682B2 Medical device control system for controlling generation of magnetic field acting on medical device
A medical device control system improves an inducing stability and operability of a medical device having its direction controlled with magnetism, which is used for the inspection or treatment in a subject's body. The control system is formed of a medical device including an insertion member inserted into the subject's body, and a magnetic field response portion disposed within the insertion member for generating torque in response to the magnetic field applied from outside the subject's body, a direction detection unit that detects an insertion direction of the insertion member, a user interface through which the information with respect to the control of the insertion direction is input and output, a magnetic field generation portion that generates a magnetic field that directs the insertion member to a control direction, and a user interface control unit that controls the user interface based on a discordance between the control direction and the insertion direction.
US08317680B2 Endoscope apparatus and connection unit therefor
An endoscope apparatus includes an endoscope apparatus body portion which includes a first connector, and which is connectable to an insertion portion having an image pickup device disposed at a distal end portion. The endoscope apparatus further includes a connection unit which includes a second connector which is removably connectable to the endoscope apparatus body portion by communicating the second connector with the first connector, a non-volatile memory which stores a program for processing image data inputted from the image pickup device via the second connector, a CPU which controls the processing of the image data in accordance with the stored program to produce processed data, and a display data output section configured to output the processed data.
US08317678B2 Rotate-to-advance catheterization system
A method for visualizing the interior of a bodily passageway at a remote location, the method comprising the steps of: providing a visualization system for deployment in the bodily passageway, the visualization system comprising: an endoscope comprising a rotatable drive collar configured for rotation relative to the endoscope; a disposable drive tube comprising an elongated tube having a helical thread disposed on an exterior surface of the elongated tube, the elongated tube being configured for coaxial disposition about the endoscope; and a mount for releasably securing the disposable drive tube to the rotatable drive collar of the endoscope; wherein the helical thread has a sufficient structural integrity, and a sufficient surface profile, such that when the disposable drive tube is disposed in the bodily passageway so that the helical thread engages the interior side wall of the bodily passageway, rotation of the disposable drive tube will induce a relative movement between the disposable drive tube and the side wall of the bodily passageway; mounting the disposable drive tube coaxially about the endoscope so that the disposable drive tube is secured to the rotatable drive collar of the endoscope; inserting the visualization system into the bodily passageway at a location remote from the site which is to be visualized; rotating the disposable drive tube so as to bring together the site which is to be visualized and the visualization apparatus; and using the visualization apparatus to visualize the interior of the bodily passageway.
US08317677B2 Mechanical gastric band with cushions
A system for regulating the functioning of an organ or duct generally includes an implantable band structured to at least partially circumscribe an organ or duct and an actuating mechanism operable to effect constriction of the band. The system further includes a plurality of incompressible cushion segments defining a substantially star-shaped inner circumference of the band, the star-shape effective to prevent pinching and necrosis of tissue during adjustment.
US08317675B2 Pelvic implants and delivery devices and methods of using the same
An apparatus includes a first arm and a second arm coupled to the first arm. The second arm has a retracted configuration and an extended configuration. The first arm is configured to deposit a first end portion of an implant within a first portion of pelvic tissue when the second arm is in the retracted configuration. The second arm is configured to deposit a second end portion of the implant within a second portion of pelvic tissue on an opposite side of a urethra when in the extended configuration, such that a portion of the implant is positioned substantially beneath the urethra.
US08317674B2 Shielding assemblies for infusion systems
A shielding assembly for an infusion system includes a plurality of compartments and a door for each compartment, and provides a radioactive radiation barrier for the compartments. One of the compartments contains a radioisotope generator of the infusion system and another of the compartments may contain a waste bottle of the infusion system. An opening into each of the generator and waste bottle compartments may be oriented upward, and the opening into the latter may be at a higher elevation than the opening into the former, for example, to facilitate independent removal and replacement of each. A door of at least one of the compartments, other than the generator compartment, when closed, may prevent the door of the generator compartment from being opened. A cabinet structure for the infusion system may enclose the shielding assembly and secure the generator.
US08317673B2 Device and method for controlling emission of radiation
Embodiments of the invention include a device for therapeutically delivering radiation to tissue. Some embodiments include a radiation source and a combination of members surrounding the radiation source that move relative to one another to permit or restrict the emitting of radiation from the device. Limits to the movement of the combination of members may be imposed by one or more biodegradable members.
US08317672B2 Centrifuge method and apparatus
A single use, sterile, self-contained, compact, easy to use centrifugal separation unit provides for quick, reliable platelet concentration from whole blood. Anti-coagulated blood is injected through an elastomeric seal into a separation chamber featuring a tapered barrel and an end cap. At least one port is located in the end cap, at a desired radius from the longitudinal axis. The centrifugal field created by rotation of the chamber stratifies the blood radially, with red blood cells adjacent the wall of the barrel, and plasma found closest to the longitudinal axis. Opening the port causes the pressure of the centrifugal field to eject red blood cells or plasma, thereby increasing the concentration of platelets remaining in the chamber. After ceasing chamber rotation, the concentrated platelets are recovered.
US08317669B2 Elastic roller and method of grinding the same
When an elastic layer surface having an unapplied area of adhesive agent at its one end is ground, a method of grinding an elastic roller which assures high run-out accuracy and uniform diameter as well as which can carry out surface grinding with good production efficiency is provided.An elastic roller comprises an elastic layer 1 carried on the outer circumference of a shaft 2 via adhesive agent, and an unapplied area of adhesive agent at one end of the elastic layer in the longitudinal direction of the roller. The surface of the elastic layer is ground by a grindstone 10 moving along the longitudinal direction of the roller. The elastic layer has no taper at the both ends, and grinding carried out by the grindstone is started from an opposite end side of the end having the unapplied area of adhesive agent of the roller in the longitudinal direction.
US08317667B1 Portable exercise device and method of using the same
According to one embodiment, an exercise device in the form of an adjustable resistance multi-use toning system that includes a plurality of elongated elastic bands (tension bands or cables) which can have different tension (resistance) values. Each band has a first end and an opposing second end. The device further includes a hollow sleeve that receives at least a portion of each of the elastic bands so as to at least partially envelope the elastic bands while permitting the first and second ends to be accessible. A first fastener is provided for attaching the first ends of the elastic bands to a support member, such as a piece of exercise equipment, a belt to be worn around a body part of a user; or any other structure to which the exercise device can be attached.
US08317661B2 Methods and systems of a power ladder
A power ladder for exercising and fitness is disclosed. Embodiments of the power ladder are lightweight and compact, and fold for easy storage and transport. Embodiments include two flexible plastic side rails and a plurality of rungs connected to the side rails at intervals along the side rails. The rungs connect pivotally and slidably to the rails. The rungs are mounted on telescoping legs so that the rungs may be used in a first position adjacent the ground, in a second position above the ground, and in some embodiments, a third position, mounted higher above the ground than the second position. Using the ladder, persons can train for agility, flexibility and plyometrics, and can thus achieve excellent exercising while having fun. One or more persons or even a team may use the ladder. Larger teams may compete using one ladder or more than one of the ladders.
US08317656B2 Method for operating a drivetrain of a motor vehicle
A method of operating a drivetrain of a vehicle comprising an engine, a clutch and a transmission comprising a claw-shifted main transmission and a synchronized upstream and/or downstream group, such that shifting from a current gear to a target gear is accomplished by actuating one of the synchronized upstream or downstream group and without actuating the engaged clutch and the claw-shifted main transmission. The method includes reducing engine torque and, when the engine torque is less than or equal to a limit value, the synchronized upstream or downstream group is actuated to disengage the currant gear. Then, when the engine torque is approximately zero, the synchronized downstream or upstream group is disengaged and held in neutral, and the speed of the engine is then adjusted to a target speed. The synchronized upstream or downstream group is actuated to engage the target gear and upon engagement the engine torque is increased.
US08317648B2 Single mode compound power-split hybrid transmission
A hybrid electro-mechanical transmission has an input member, an output member, and a stationary member. The transmission has a planetary gear set with a first sun gear, a second sun gear, a carrier, a first set of pinion gears, a second set of pinion gears, and a ring gear. The carrier supports the sets of pinion gears. The first set of pinion gears meshes with the first sun gear and with the ring gear. The second set of pinion gears meshes with the second sun gear and with the second set of pinion gears. The input member is connected with the ring gear. The output member is connected with the first sun gear. A first motor/generator has a rotor connected with the carrier. A second motor/generator has a rotor connected with the second sun gear. A torque-transmitting mechanism is selectively engageable to ground the input member to the stationary member.
US08317641B1 Football lacing system
A football lacing system having a molded backbone with a series of spaced finger grooves separated by resilient ridges to insure proper hand placement for throwing a spiral pass. The backbone is preferably molded of thermal plastic rubber and is secured over the bladder seam of the exterior football covering by lacing that extends between paired lace holes along the length of the bladder seam.
US08317639B1 Soccer training device
A soccer training device includes a pair of leg components to be worn on a user's legs, each having a shin guard kneepad and foot cover member. An assortment of recessed attachment portals are included on shin guards, kneepads, and foot covers for releasably securing opposite ends of an elastomeric cord, which has a training ball secured along its length, producing two legs of the elastomeric cord, each being selectively secured to a respective leg component. In operation, the user begins alternating movement of his or her legs, thereby causing the ball to alternatively strike the selected areas and travel away from the user until the elastomeric cord stretches taut and causes the ball to travel back towards the user for striking with the opposite leg. The user continues kicking the ball from one leg to the other as many times as he or she can consecutively hit the ball.
US08317635B2 Iron-type golf clubs
A set of iron-type golf clubs includes long, mid- and short irons with channel back configurations and a mass control insert. The mass of the insert is systematically varied through the set such that the mass distribution properties of the set may be systematically varied while retaining a continuous look and feel through the set. The mass of the insert is varied by altering the volume or the density of the insert through the set. Additional design parameters for the set may also be systematically varied through the set, such as groove type and depth, loft angle, cavity volume, hitting face roughness, and sole width. In one embodiment, the mass control insert comprises a dense insert and a lightweight cover. The density of the dense insert can be easily varied to change the mass distribution properties of the club head. One application of the mass control insert is to provide customization of the club head at the point of sale or distribution.
US08317634B2 Golf club grip
To provide a golf club grip in which torsional deformation is suppressed without impairing a grip feeling.A grip 10 has en inner layer portion 23, an intermediate layer portion 24, and an outer layer portion 25. Resin films 26 and 27 are disposed between the respective layer portions. The outer layer portion 25 is formed of sort rubber and the intermediate layer portion 24 and the inner layer portion 23 are formed of hard rubber. The resin sheets 26 end 27 are constituted as a nonwoven fabric formed of aramid fibers. The Young's modulus Es of the resin sheets 26 and 27 is adjusted to be larger than the Young's modulus (Ei, Ec, Eo) of the inner layer portion 23, the intermediate layer portion 24, and the outer layer portion 25, and a relationship of Eo
US08317633B2 Putting training method and apparatus
The apparatus and methods of the current invention utilize a device that is secured within a golf hole and comprises a series of tethers and or aiming rods as well as a ball retrieving mechanism. The purpose of the invention is to improve the user's putting ability.
US08317624B1 System and method for creating and/or serving online games embedded in websites
Online games embedded in webpages of websites may be created and/or served through a system and/or method. The games may be embedded in websites that are hosted separately from the games. The games may be designed by the website operators and/or other entities associated with the websites, and may include content from the websites to drive engagement with the websites and their content. An interface may be provided to the website operators to facilitate efficient and intuitive configuration of games that use website content. Such games may be served separately from the websites. As such, the games may provide a convenient, efficient, and/or effective mechanism for enhancing engagement of users with the website and/or its content.
US08317621B2 Video game processing device, video game processing method and video game processing program
Data communication is carried out with any of other video game processing devices. Commands are distributed to each of other player characters operated by each of other players of the other video game processing devices. Each of the commands causes a predetermined special effect to the player character. A command releasing operation in which by erasing one or more command from the retained commands the one or more command is released is performed at a time when a predetermined releasing condition is satisfied. The released commands are visualized as icons. A distance between each of the released command icons and the player character is determined. The player character is caused to newly retain any of the released commands in the case where it is determined that the player character exists inside a predetermined distance from the released command icon indicating the released command.
US08317616B2 System, method, and article of manufacture for multi-player gaming from an off-site location
A system, method, and article of manufacture are disclosed that comprise receiving, from one or more client terminals, two or more purchase requests, wherein each of the purchase requests identifies a wager for one or more multi-player games. A wager result is then determined for each wager at the time of purchase and stored in a database. Once all the wagers for an instance of a game are received, an outcome, such as a set of cards, is determined for each player and, if appropriate, the house (the host of the game). The outcome for each player is based on the previously determined wager result(s) and the type of game played. The outcome(s) are then stored with the wager(s) and wager result(s) in a transaction history file corresponding to each of the game's patrons (players) and in a game status file. A patron may then submit a request at a client terminal to reveal the results of the wager(s) and, optionally, the outcome of the game at either the gaming facility where the wagers were placed or at an off-site location.
US08317615B2 Display device, game system, and game method
An example game system includes a home-console type game device, a controller device, and a portable display device. The portable display device includes an infrared emitter capable of emitting infrared light. The controller device wirelessly transmits to the game device operation image data from an image-capturing section, inertia sensor data, and operation button data. The game device receives the operation data from the controller device, and performs game processes based on the operation data. Moreover, the game device compresses first game images, which are generated based on the game processes, to generate compressed image data. The compressed image data is wirelessly transmitted to the portable display device. The portable display device receives the compressed image data from the game device, expands the compressed image data to obtain the game images, and displays the game images.
US08317612B2 Sports net with socks and promotion method used therewith
A net or barrier has strategically located pocket(s) attached to the net over holes(s) in the net/barrier in order to catch a ball or projectile that passes through the hole(s). A computer-assisted method displays information, more particularly advertisement, onto a net or barrier. The computer-assisted display is viewable by a TV or video audience.
US08317611B2 Image integration, mapping and linking system and methodology
A video game adapter interface apparatus has a user input device and an associated video display. The user selects a distinguishable visual image representation for association into a video game's audiovisual presentation, such as where that user is identified. For example, color, size graphics or shape can be used to distinguish users. In one embodiment a digitized image of each user's face is used as the distinguishable representation. Alternatively, the user can create an original image or select one of a predetermined set of visual images as the user's identification for use in the video game audiovisual presentation. In a preferred video game embodiment, the video game adapter interface system is coupled to a video game system and a storage card containing User Images. The video game adapter interface system then integrates a selected User Image from the Storage Card into the video game's audiovisual presentation, and can also integrate the User Image into the video game play. For non-User Image video game software and for non-video game and audiovisual presentations, an Intercept Adapter Interface Systems permits the integration of User Images into the audiovisual presentation in place of and/or in addition to predefined character images otherwise present in the audiovisual presentation.
US08317610B2 Apparatuses, methods and systems for a live online game tester
A method for testing a new feature of an online gaming application is provided. The method initiates with assigning each of a plurality of users to one of a test group and a control group. Each of the test group users is provided a gaming application including a new game feature enabled, and each of the control group users is provided the gaming application without the new game feature enabled. Gaming activity and social network activity of the test group users is evaluated to generate an evaluation score for the test group users. Gaming activity and social network activity of the control group users is evaluated to generate an evaluation score for the control group users.
US08317609B2 Method, apparatus and system for determining the presence of a user at a device such as a gaming machine
A method and system for verifying the continued presence of the same player at a gaming machine is provided. The system comprises a device for continuously obtaining verification data samples, wherein each verification data sample relates to one or more physical features of a first player. A subsequently obtained verification data sample is analyzed to determine whether it is substantially similar to a previously obtained verification data sample. If the subsequent verification data sample is substantially similar to the previously obtained verification data sample, then the system determines that the first player continues to be the same player present at the gaming machine.
US08317605B2 Method of gaming, a gaming system and a game controller
A method of gaming comprising conducting one or more paid game rounds initiated in response to the payment of a wager by a player and a series of one or more free game rounds initiated in response to a free game series trigger event, the method comprising: in each paid game round, selecting a set of paid game round symbols for display to the player, determining a paid game round outcome based on the selected symbols, and incrementing a jackpot by a paid game jackpot increment; in each free game round, selecting a set of free game round symbols for display to the player, determining a free game round outcome based on the selected symbols, and incrementing the jackpot by a free game jackpot increment; and awarding the jackpot on the occurrence of a jackpot award event.
US08317604B2 Apparatus and method for retrofitting candle devices on a gaming machine
A gaming peripheral for a gaming machine is described. The gaming peripheral can be configured to emulate the functions of a lighting device, such as a candle. The gaming peripheral can be configured to provide enhanced gaming features such as 1) enhanced networking capabilities, 2) enhanced peripheral device monitoring and upgrade capabilities, 3) enhanced player monitoring and security capabilities 4) enhanced gaming function capabilities and 5) enhanced player reward capabilities. The enhanced gaming features can be provided in a non-intrusive manner such that regulated software executed on a gaming machine does not have to be altered.
US08317603B2 Multi-tiered competitive wagering games including award enhancement in subsequent game
A method of playing a competitive wagering game comprises receiving a wager from each of a first plurality of players, displaying to each of the first plurality of players a first wagering game, and in response to a first triggering event, entering the first plurality of players into a competitive wagering game. The method further comprises declaring a first one of the first plurality of players a winner of the competitive wagering game, in response to a second triggering event, entering the first player and a second plurality of players into a subsequent competitive wagering game and providing the first player with an award enhancement for use during the subsequent competitive wagering game.
US08317594B2 Gaming machine which is likely to increase player's expectation for bonus game and playing method thereof
When a game-number addition symbol is rearranged in arrangement areas, a value determined based on the number of game-number addition symbols rearranged is added to a bonus game-number. When a predetermined condition is satisfied, executed is a bonus game of which scale depends on the bonus game-number.
US08317591B1 Method for generating numbers for lottery games
A method for generating numbers for lottery games that works out a series of cases providing optimized lotto numbers for different lottery wheels, achieving up to about 500% or more improvement in comparison against other systems. The optimal generating system for lottery games created for the Lottery Players provides a study on how to increase their chance of winning Lottery Prizes more frequently. The system of the present invention is used for generating very special number combinations, the final numbers representing a system of combinations that achieve the Maximum Possible “Coverage”.
US08317590B2 High volume electronic lottery ticket distribution system
A game server communicates game record groups to a site controller associated with a gaming site, and the site controller stores the game record groups in associated data storage. The site controller selects one of the stored game record groups in response to a game availability request associated with a respective game presentation, and communicates the selected game record group from the site controller to a player station services controller associated with the gaming site. The player station services controller stores that respective game record group in its associated data storage device and communicates data from a respective game record to a player station in response to a game play request from the player station, thereby allowing the player station to present a player with a lottery game result for the game play request.
US08317589B2 Method and apparatus for providing an advantage to a player in a bonus game
A gaming method includes receiving a wager from a player, displaying an image representative of a primary game, determining if a bonus event trigger has occurred, displaying an image representative of a bonus game, the bonus game including a representation associated with the player and a representation associated with an opponent, the representations each having at least one attribute associated with the bonus game, if the bonus event trigger occurs, and determining a payout associated with an outcome of the bonus game. The method also includes offering the player at least one advantage option, the at least one advantage option affecting at least one of the at least one attribute of the representation associated with the player and the at least one attribute of the representation associated with the opponent. A gaming machines and system may be provided to carry out such a method.
US08317587B2 Gaming system having free spin enhancement features
A gaming system comprises a wager input device for receiving a primary wager, a display for displaying a primary wagering game, and a controller operative to (i) detect receipt of the primary wager, (ii) cause the display to present the randomly selected outcome selected from a plurality of possible outcomes, the plurality of possible outcomes including at least one free spin bonus outcome, (iii) determine if the randomly selected outcome is one of the at least one free spin bonus outcome, (iv) in response to the randomly selected outcome being the at least one free spin bonus outcome, provide a plurality of free spins and display a plurality of free spin enhancements which remain constant for the plurality of free spins, and (v) enhance an outcome of each of the free spins based on a player selection of at least one of the free spin enhancements for a subsequent free spin.
US08317585B2 Wagering game triggering mechanism for use with multi-level progressive game
According to one aspect of the present invention, a method of conducting a wagering game is provided. The method allows an opportunity to achieve a first progressive award and a second progressive award. The method comprises the acts of receiving a primary wager from a player for playing the wagering game and initiating the wagering game. The method further includes the act of displaying a randomly selected outcome of the wagering game via a plurality of symbols. The plurality of symbols are selected from a set of symbols including a predetermined symbol. In response to the randomly selected outcome including a first number of the predetermined symbols, the method includes the act of triggering an event in which the first progressive award can be achieved. In response to the randomly selected outcome including a second number of the predetermined symbols, the method includes the act of triggering an event in which the second progressive award can be achieved.
US08317582B2 Game control program, game device and game control method
A game device includes an object arrangement changing unit for changing the arrangement of objects, which are of plural kinds, placed in a game field following an instruction from a user, an arrangement condition determining unit for determining objects that meet an arrangement condition for erasure out of a plurality of objects placed in the game field and selecting the objects that meet the arrangement condition as objects to be erased, an object kind changing unit for changing the kind of the objects selected as objects to be erased, and an object erasing unit for erasing the objects selected as objects to be erased. The arrangement condition determining unit determines again objects that meet the arrangement condition and further selects objects that newly meet the arrangement condition as objects to be erased, during a time from when the kind of the objects selected as objects to be erased is changed by the object kind changing unit until when the objects are erased by the object erasing unit.
US08317576B2 Apparatus and method for adjusting clearance between a screw and screen in a machine for separating composite materials
A desirably close clearance between outer edges of the flights of a conveying screw and the inside surface of a separator housing and screen can be obtained by offsetting the axis of the screw within the screen and by rotating the axis of the screw about the axis of the separator housing. Adjustments to the amount of such offset of the screw axis can be made in steps as the outer edges of the flights on the conveying screw wear.
US08317574B2 Power-driven hand tool with clamping fixture for a tool
A power-driven hand tool is disclosed comprising a housing, a work spindle for driving a tool, which tool can be located between a tool end of the work spindle and a fixing mechanism, further comprising a displacing mechanism with a clamping lever, adapted to pivot about a pivot axis for displacing the fixing mechanism between a releasing position, in which the fixing mechanism can be released from the work spindle, and a clamping position in which the fixing mechanism is clamped on the work spindle by a spring. An impeding mechanism is provided that interacts with the clamping lever for impeding the pivoting movement of the clamping lever between the releasing position and the clamping position.
US08317573B2 Double annular abrasive element dressers
An apparatus and associated method for dressing a workpiece. A first annular abrasive dressing element is attached to a base, an inner arcuate edge of the first annular abrasive dressing element defining a cavity. A second annular abrasive dressing element is also attached to the base and disposed in the cavity, an outer arcuate edge of the second annular abrasive dressing element noncontactingly separated from the inner arcuate edge of the first annular abrasive dressing element defining a circumferential space therebetween.
US08317563B2 Method for producing plasma display panel
Provided is a manufacturing method that allows even a PDP having high-definition cells to exhibit excellent image display performance with reduced power consumption by effectively preventing impurities from adhering to the protective layer. Specifically, in a pre-baking step, a back substrate 9 is baked at a pre-baking temperature. Here, a highest pre-baking temperature is set to be lower than a softening point of a sealing material. The back substrate 9 is superposed on a front substrate 2. Then, a sealing step is performed in a sealing atmosphere prepared by mixing a predetermined amount of a reducing gas with a non-oxidizing gas. The above enables the impurities attributed to organic components due to a sealing material paste to remain as low molecular components, whereby the impurities are evacuated and removed in an evacuating step performed after the sealing step. This prevents adherence of the impurities to the protective layer 8.
US08317559B2 Ergonomic hand grips for watercraft
The invention comprises a non-slip foam pad that provides an ergonomically shaped grip for the hands for use on a personal water craft surface, such as a surfboard or body board, to provide for maximum grip during maneuvers which involve moving through oncoming water while maintaining a grip on said watercraft.
US08317558B2 Compound rotational grip
An improved paddle apparatus for standup paddling of surfboards or like water craft, having a plurality of hand grip portions rotatably mounted relative to the paddle shaft, and a means of paddling whereby the operator can ergonomically paddle with greater power and control on either side of the water craft without breaking either hand grip. A further improvement includes using the handgrip in the position perpendicular to the paddle shaft to determine the blade position by feel and steer with greater torque. An alternative embodiment includes rotation of the grip itself, further reducing the twisting of the wrists and other joints.
US08317551B2 Contact arrangement for connection with a polygonal socket
The invention relates to an electrical contact arrangement for high pulsed currents and for connection with a polygonal socket. The electrical contact arrangement includes first contact, arm, a second contact arm, an intermediate space provided between the first and second contact arms, and a third contact arm. The second contact arm positioned apart from the first contact arm in a deflection direction extending perpendicularly to the plug-in direction. The first contact arm and second contact arm extend substantially in a plug-in direction, and one of the first contact arm or second contact arm resiliently deflectable relative to the other contact arm in the deflection direction. The third contact arm extends in the plug-in direction and is positioned apart from the first contact arm and the second contact arm in a transverse direction extending perpendicularly to the plug-in and deflection directions. The third contact arm movable in the deflection direction and into the intermediate space.
US08317550B2 Electrical receptacle terminal
A receptacle terminal to be utilized in an electrical receptacle includes a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a connecting member, and a restricting member. The second sidewall cooperates with the first sidewall to define a receiving space to receive an electrical terminal. The connecting member connects the first sidewall to the second wall. The restricting member includes a first hook and a second hook. The first hook extends from one end of the first sidewall. The second hook extends from one end of the second sidewall. An end of the first hook and an end of the second hook are spaced from each other. When the electrical terminal is received in the receiving space, the first hook engages with the second hook, to prevent the receiving space from being stretch beyond a predetermined size or size range.
US08317548B2 Electrical connector
The present invention relates to an electrical connector with a first and a second sub-assembly. The first sub-assembly comprises a contact area for receiving a conductor end and for establishing an electrical contact with the received conductor end. The first sub-assembly further comprises a clamping device for clamping the conductor in the contact area. The second sub-assembly comprises a hollow body with a hollow space for receiving the contact area. The first and the second sub-assemblies are made as one piece and are configured to release the clamping device in the open state for manually clamping the conductor end, and to electrically insulate the contact area including the clamping device in the closed state.
US08317547B2 Electrical distribution block apparatus and method of assembly
An electrical receptacle includes a first portion having a face with a plurality of openings and including a first set of protrusions and a first set of receptors, the first portion being configured to receive a plurality of electrical conductors, and a second mating portion including a second set of protrusions and a second set of receptors. The first set of receptors is configured to interact with the second set of protrusions and the first set of protrusions is configured to interact with the second set of receptors to snap lock the second mating portion to the first portion and form the electrical receptacle. Further, a method is provided for assembling and disassembling an electrical receptacle.
US08317545B2 Electric connector plug and its assembly method
A plug for electric connectors comprises a housing 34 and a cap 36. The housing 34 comprises an insertion space 71 that allows a noise filter 35 to be fitted onto lengths of electric wire 32 before the housing is covered by the cap 36 after contacts 30 are latched. The cap 36 comprises a wall surface 75 provided in a direction, in which the noise filter 35 comes off. And, the plug for electric connectors is assembled in the order of (1) a step of latching the contacts 30 on a plug portion 31a of the housing 34, (2) a step of fitting the noise filter 35 onto the lengths of electric wire 32 that are connected to the contacts 30 and disposed within the housing 34, and (3) a step of covering the housing 34 with the cap 36 and forming a wall surface 72 in a direction, in which the noise filter 35 comes off.
US08317544B2 Mounting structure for shielding shell
A mounting structure for a shielding shell (70) is provided for covering a housing (50) to be connected to a motor case. The mounting structure includes a metal plate (30) integrally to the housing (50) and adapted to attach the housing (50) to the motor case by mounting bolts. A first shielding shell (70A) has two overlapping pieces (76) and is adapted to cover the front side of the housing (50). A second shielding shell (70B) includes two fixing pieces (72) and is adapted to cover upper, left and right sides of the housing (50). The overlapping pieces (76) and the fixing pieces (72) are plates extending along the metal plate (30) and fastened together with the metal plate (30) to the motor case by the mounting bolts while being placed one over the other.
US08317528B2 Intelligent electrical connector
An intelligent electrical includes a metallic shielding case, an insulating main body, plural conducting terminals and at least one detecting element. The metallic shielding case includes a receiving space and at least one elastic sustaining element. The insulating main body includes a first body part and a second body part. The first body part is accommodated within the receiving space. The second body part is exposed outside the metallic shielding case. The detecting element is disposed on the second body part, arranged beside the elastic sustaining element of the metallic shielding case, and selectively contacted with or separated from the elastic sustaining element. When the elastic sustaining element is contacted with the detecting element, the electricity is permitted to be transmitted through the intelligent electrical connector. Whereas, when the elastic sustaining element is separated from the detecting element, the electricity fails to be transmitted through the intelligent electrical connector.
US08317526B2 Ground clamp
A clamp may include two clamping members that are pivotally connected at one end.
US08317519B1 Resuscitation metronome
A portable metronome is provided for assisting medical resuscitations, including cardiopulmonary and cardiocerebral resuscitations. The metronome includes a user interface having a plurality of criteria selection buttons, which when selected, can alter the resuscitation sequence to be generated. Resuscitation sequence prompts can include both audible and visual prompts. The sequence generation is at least in part based upon medically accepted resuscitation guidelines.
US08317517B2 Potty training device for boys
A potty training device for use on toilets has a target releasably attached to a bent rod which is pivotally attached to a clamping means. The clamping means clamps onto a rim of a bowl. When an annular seat is lowered, it depresses a button which pivots the rod from the center of the bowl towards its side. When the annular seat is raised, the button is released and the rod rotates so as to bring the target towards the center of the bowl.
US08317516B2 Dental mill blanks
A dental mill blank including a resin and a filler, wherein the blank is fabricated such that it passes a Thermal Shock Test. The mill blank is substantially free of cracks and discontinuities. Further, the blank may have superior cuttability and hardness.
US08317515B2 Shape memory dental retention systems
Shape memory dental retention systems which facilitate the adjustment or removal of an oral appliance, e.g., a crown or bridge, from a reconfigurable abutment assembly are described. The adjustable abutment assembly may be secured to an anchoring implant bored into the bones within the mouth. The abutment assembly has a projecting abutment portion with one or more shape memory material sleeves or plates or elements extending along the abutment. Each of the sleeves has a length with at least one curved or arcuate portion. Energy may be applied to the elements such that the arcuate portion flattens to allow for the oral appliance to be placed thereupon while removal of the energy allows the elements to reconfigure into its curved configuration thereby locking the oral appliance to the abutment. Removal of the oral appliance may be effected by reapplication of energy to the elements.
US08317510B2 Method of waste heat recovery from high temperature furnace exhaust gases
The disclosure provides methods and systems for recovering thermal energy from heated exhaust gases. The methods and systems have particular use in conjunction with combustion source effluent/exhaust streams. The methods of energy recovery increase life expectancy of various equipment, while reducing operating and maintenance costs for economic recovery of enthalpy from heated process streams. In certain aspects, the methods of recovering thermal energy include providing a heated low pressure effluent stream. A high velocity stream is injected into an entrainment zone to form a high velocity jet which entrains the heated effluent stream. The momentum of the system is conserved and a mixed stream is pressurized and recirculated to a burning zone of a combustion source. The methods also reduce pollutant emissions.
US08317505B2 Apparatus for formation of an ophthalmic lens precursor and lens
This invention discloses apparatus for generating an ophthalmic lens with at least a portion of one surface free-formed from a Reactive Mixture. In some embodiments, an ophthalmic lens is formed on a substrate with an arcuate optical quality surface via a source of actinic radiation controllable to cure a definable portion of a volume of Reactive Mixture.
US08317504B2 Apparatus and method for the production of plastic granulate
The invention relates to a method and a device for producing plastic granulate, having a granulator which breaks up essentially continuously conveyed plastic mass flow into granulate particles, the granulator (17, 40) comprising a cutting unit (21, 22; 32, 33, 34), whose cutting elements engage on the plastic mass flow when breaking up the plastic, and the device (1, 31) comprising at least one oscillation sensor (24, 25; 60, 61), using which oscillations occurring on the device (1, 31), in particular on the granulator (17, 40), may be detected.
US08317501B2 Damper device, high pressure pump having the same and manufacturing method of the same
Gas of a predetermined pressure, which is equal to or higher than the atmospheric pressure, is filled in a damper chamber of a damper member that includes first and second-side diaphragms. A first-side limiting portion of a first-side cover member and a second-side limiting portion of a second-side cover member are engageable with a first-side concave portion of the first-side diaphragm and a second-side concave portion of the second-side diaphragm, respectively, to limit bulging of the damper member when a pressure of a fluid chamber is equal to or less than the predetermined pressure.
US08317500B2 Fluid transport system with elastic tube and detaching cam arrangement
A fluid transportation system includes: an elastic tube; a tube frame having a tube guide groove to which the tube is attached in a circular arc; a cam driving wheel interior of the tube and having a rotational center coinciding with the center of the circular arc of the tube guide groove; a first cam fixed to a center shaft of the cam driving wheel; a second cam rotatably supported by the center shaft; and a plurality of fingers radially extending from the rotation center between the tube and the first and second cams and pressing the tube by the rotation of the first and second cams, wherein when the fluid transportation system starts to operate, the first and second cams produce a state in which the second cam is attached to the first cam and at least one of the plural fingers closes the tube.
US08317499B2 Pulsatile peristaltic pump for use in a cardiopulmonary bypass
The peristaltic pump of the invention incorporates at least one pumping roller and one occluding roller. The occluding roller is located diametrically across the pumping roller and is designed to provide occlusion only and not progressive squeezing of the pump tubing while rotating in the same direction as the pumping roller. Such occlusion prevents back-flow through the tubing. More than two rollers spaced evenly along the periphery of the rotor allow for various useful combinations of pumping and occluding rollers. Two occluding and one pumping roller combination creates a pulsatile flow close to that of a human heart—with systole being about twice shorter than diastole.
US08317496B2 Motor-fan assembly having a tapered fan with a concave underside
A motor-fan unit includes an end plate assembly, a motor assembly supported by the end plate assembly, and a shaft rotated by the motor assembly and extending through the end plate assembly. The fan assembly further includes a fan secured to the rotatable shaft which is supported by the end plate assembly. The fan includes a fan disc having a substantially frusto-conical shape, a fan ring having a substantially frusto-conical shape, and a plurality of vanes connecting the fan disc to the fan ring such that the frusto-conical shapes are substantially parallel to one another. A diffuser with a tapered fan side is also provided between the fan and the end plate assembly, wherein the tapered fan side is substantially parallel with the fan disc.
US08317494B2 Compressor terminal plate
A compressor (20) has a housing (22) having first (52) and second (48) members. A motor (24) within the housing (22) is coupled to one or more working elements (26, 28) to drive the one or more working elements (26, 28) to compress a fluid. A number of electrical terminals (104) are each mounted in an associated aperture (132) in the second housing member (48) and electrically connected to the motor (24).
US08317491B2 Heating/cooling system for indwelling heat exchange catheter
A cooling system for an indwelling heat exchange catheter includes a heat exchange bath that is configured to receive a conduit that carries saline to and from the catheter. A heating/cooling fluid is in the bath and exchanges heat with the saline. The heating/cooling fluid flows through a heat exchanger that includes a refrigerant and two variable speed DC compressor for removing heat from the refrigerant. A gear pump circulates the working fluid to and from the catheter and is removably engaged with a pump support platform.
US08317489B2 Refrigerant compressor
A refrigerant compressor that includes a compressor housing enclosing an outlet chamber and an outlet passage leading from the outlet chamber to an external high pressure connection, such that the pulsations in it are damped as much as possible. The refrigerant compressor includes a pulsation damping element inserted into the outlet passage of the compressor housing following the outlet chamber. The pulsation damping element has an inlet baffle which faces the outlet chamber and extends over a cross section of the outlet passage and, located opposite to the inlet baffle is an outlet baffle which extends over the cross section of the outlet passage. At least one reflection chamber is provided between the inlet baffle and the outlet baffle. The inlet baffle and the outlet baffle each have at least one passage which faces a reflection surface on the respectively other baffle.
US08317487B2 Reciprocating-type compressor
The respective spaces for forming gas passages on the suction side formed on the front and rear side cylinder blocks are assembled together to configure a gas passage on the suction side, and the respective spaces for providing gas passages on the discharge side are connected with each other to configure a gas passage on the discharge side. A gas port leading to the suction side space is provided on one of both cylinder blocks, and a gas port leading to the discharge side space is arranged on the other. A circumferential width of the space for forming a gas passage communicating with the gas port is made larger than a circumferential width of a space for forming a gas passage not communicating with the gas port in the respective cylinder block. Partition walls are contacted with each other in the axial direction when both cylinder blocks are assembled.
US08317486B2 Variable capacity vane pump with dual control chambers
A variable capacity vane includes a pump control ring which is moveable to alter the capacity of the pump and the pump can be operated at either of at least two selected equilibrium pressures. The pump ring is moved by at least first and second control chambers, the control chambers abutting the control ring such that pressurized fluid supplied to them acts on the pump control ring to move the pump control ring to reduce the volumetric capacity of the pump. When pressurized fluid is supplied to only one control chamber, the pump operates at a first equilibrium pressure and when pressurized fluid is also supplied to the second chamber, the pump operates at a second equilibrium pressure. Pressurized fluid can also be supplied only to the second control chamber to operate the pump at a third equilibrium pressure and/or additional control chambers can be provided if required.
US08317484B2 Oil-injected compressor with a temperature switch
An oil-injected compressor, with an oil circuit for lubrication, and an oil separating device which is used to separate the oil from the compressed air. A self-resetting temperature switch, which is used to switch off the compressor unit when the maximum temperature limit of the incoming compressed air is reached, is provided in the region of the inlet of the compressed air, which contains oil, in the oil separating device. At least one non-self-resetting additional temperature switch is provided in the internal area of the oil separating device, which immediately switches off the compressor unit following a fire or an explosion of the compressed air, which contains oil, and which is contained in the oil separating device.
US08317481B2 Rotor of a turbomachine and method for replacing rotor blades of the rotor
A rotor of a turbomachine is provided. The rotor includes at least first and second rotor portions and at least first and second blades. The first and second rotor portions are configured to rotate about an axis. The first and second rotor portions have first and second rim portions, respectively, which are spaced a predetermined distance apart from one another and have a perimetrical slot therebetween. The first and second rim portions have first and second dovetail slots, respectively, extending therethrough communicating with the perimetrical slot. The first and second blades have first and second dovetail portions, respectively. The first dovetail portion is disposed in one of the first and second dovetail slots, and the second dovetail portion is disposed in the other of the first and second dovetail slots. The perimetrical slot has a sufficient size to pass the first and second blades therethrough when the first and second blades are removed from the rotor.
US08317477B2 Simultaneous twin pitch adjustment system
Disclosed is a simultaneous twin pitch adjustment system that includes a flexible shafting cord operatively connected to first and second couplers. The couplers are supported by posts and are operatively connected to pitch communicators. A handle is supported by each post and is configured such that manipulation of the handle translates to adjustment of the pitch of an associated rotor blade assembly. When the simultaneous twin pitch adjustment system is engaged, manipulation of one handle further translates, via the flexible shafting cord, to adjustment of the pitch of another rotor blade assembly in an amount essentially equal to the amount the associated rotor blade assembly is adjusted.
US08317475B1 Turbine airfoil with micro cooling channels
An air cooled turbine airfoil having micro cooling air passages formed within the airfoil that is of such size that the present day investment coating process cannot be used. The internal cooling air features of the airfoil are formed using the Tomo Lithographic Molding (TLM) process. The TLM process is a low pressure casting process that can produce precise micro-features integral to macro-scale structures using any of the exotic alloys or other metallic materials currently being used in airfoil production. The normal internal cooling air passages as well as very small features such as trip strips, pin fins, dimples, pedestals and enclosed passages such as film holes can be produced using the TLM process.
US08317473B1 Turbine blade with leading edge edge cooling
A showerhead cooling arrangement for a turbine airfoil in which the showerhead includes a row of film cooling holes on the stagnation point of the leading edge, a row of pressure side film cooling holes, and a row of suction side film cooling holes to form the showerhead. A pattern of grooves is formed on the leading edge surface in both a criss cross shape and three longitudinal shapes and in which the showerhead film cooling holes are located in the grooves. A TBC is applied over the leading edge surface and into the grooves. The grooves retain the TBC and prevent spallation, and the grooves hold the film layer together longer so that the cooling effectiveness is increased.
US08317471B2 Method for preventing rotor overspeed of a wind turbine
A method for preventing a possible overspeed of a wind turbine rotor with at least one rotor blade is provided. The method includes detecting a yaw misalignment of the rotor, and imposing a restriction on changes of a pitch angle towards a feathered position of the at least one rotor blade after detecting the yaw misalignment. Further, a wind turbine having a rotor and a control system configured to prevent a possible overspeed of the rotor is provided.
US08317469B2 Wind turbine shroud
A shroud for a wind turbine and a method for modifying performance of a wind turbine are disclosed. The wind turbine includes a rotor mounted to a nacelle, the rotor including a plurality of rotor blades and defining an outer diameter. The shroud is positioned downstream of the rotor in an air flow direction, and has an inner diameter of less than the outer diameter of the rotor.
US08317467B2 Radial channel diffuser for steam turbine exhaust hood
An exhaust hood for an axial steam turbine that includes a radial channel, downstream from the normal flow pattern. The radial channel guides the exhaust steam flow in upper half of the hood in the flow momentum direction. Due to this pattern of flow direction, vortex generation in upper exhaust hood is reduced and increased flow diffusion results. The geometric arrangement can eliminate the outer casing of the exhaust hood over the axial length of the turbine inner casing, allowing the turbine inner casing to be supported directly by a foundation for the steam turbine.
US08317465B2 Systems and apparatus relating to turbine engines and seals for turbine engines
A turbine engine that includes a vortex protrusion disposed upon a component that rotates during operation of the turbine engine; wherein the vortex protrusion includes an outer surface that is configured to induce a vortex flow pattern as the component rotates during operation.
US08317460B1 Boundary layer wind turbine
A boundary layer wind turbine having one or more flaps coupled to the underneath of a turbine disk is provided. The turbine uses an assembly of closely stacked disks that are rotated by the wind blowing across the face of the disks to rotate a turbine shaft that is attached to an electrical generator to generate electricity. The wind moves the turbines as it flows across the surface of the closely spaced disks. The disks include one or more flaps attached to the bottom side of the disks. The wind blows against the flap, which in turn exerts a force on the disk, causing the turbine to rotate. The flaps may be located near the outer circumference of the disks. The one or more flaps on the disks retract automatically as the rotational velocity of the turbine increases.
US08317454B1 Stone handling frame
A frame for receiving, storing and handling a sheet of stone or slab. The stone is stored or placed in the vertical position and then tilted to the horizontal position for fabrication or other purposes. Any embodiment of the frame allows the fabricator to fabricate the stone with out the need for a crane or bridge saw.
US08317441B2 Liner for cushioning and securing rolled coils and other cylindrical objects in a transverse trough of a railway car
A liner for a transverse trough of a coil-transport railway car for cushioning a coil and for preventing lateral creep of the load during transport. Each sloping wall of a transverse trough is lined with at least one liner to prevent lateral creep in both transverse directions. Each liner is comprised of a horizontal bottom base or support layer, from which upwardly project a plurality of spaced-apart, flexible fingers or ribs. The fingers or ribs of the liner of the invention may be oriented leftward or rightward in direction of cant, and oriented such as to face or incline toward the centerline of the transport vehicle, and behave or act as leaf springs. When the load of coil is placed onto the liner of the present invention, the fingers thereof serve as the load-bearing surface, and bend or deflect in accordance with the weight of the load, to thereby support the load of coil. In addition, those remaining fingers or ribs not deflected by the load and immediately adjacent to the coil at either end, act as leaf springs to resist any side-to-side, lateral movement of the roll or coil, as would otherwise occur due to vibration and shock imparted during transport.
US08317440B2 Method for vibration-optimizing a machine tool
The invention relates to a method for optimizing vibration of a machine tool, in which a driven shaft is rotated, in which a speed range is subsequently passed through, wherein the vibrations occurring in said speed range are sensed and wherein an optimum speed having a minimized vibration is determined and adjusted.
US08317434B2 Tool system for machining
In a tool system for machining, having at least one receptacle for a cutting insert which can be brought at least partly with a bearing surface of convex curvature into contact with a supporting surface of concave curvature on the receptacle, the convexity and concavity of bearing surface and supporting surface, respectively, which face one another, define lines of curvature which are different from one another and of which at least one deviates from the circular form.
US08317430B2 Crawler-type and height adjustment drilling machine for setting roof and side wall anchor bolts and anchor cables
A crawler-type and height adjustable drilling machine includes a crawler moving part, a temporary support, a lift cylinder, a cross beam, a roof anchor drill for setting roof anchor bolts and cables which that can turn left or right around 30°, a side-wall-anchor drill for setting side wall anchor bolts and cables that can turn toward one side around 90°, a platform for the drills, a hydraulic system and operation console, and a crawler driving motor. A coal pushing shovel is in front of the crawler moving part and below the platform. Double columns are provided on which a slipway is mounted for left and right moving of the roof anchor drill. The platform is also provided with a forward and backward slipways on which the side-wall-anchor drill is arranged so that a cylinder mounted on the platform pushes the side-wall-anchor drill forward and backward.
US08317427B2 Portable winch
A portable winch and method of use is shown. One advantage of winches shown includes an ability to lower a boom or boom sections into limited access exit pit for winching operations such as pipe bursting. Sectional boom designs shown provide the ability to easily raise and lower a boom large distances without the need for a single long boom. Selected winch designs shown include flexible inserts between the boom and the winch frame that help resist damage from unforeseen shifting of the device during operation. Designs and methods shown also include multiple pulleys on a boom end unit. Fasteners are shown that reduce build up of debris.
US08317426B2 Soil compacting device
A tamper as a soil-compacting device having a combustion engine, a soil contact element, and a motion conversion device for converting a rotary movement of the combustion engine into an oscillating linear movement of the soil contact element. Furthermore, a clutch device for connecting and interrupting the force flow between the combustion engine and the motion conversion device is provided. In addition to the combustion engine, an electric motor with a rotor and a stator is provided, wherein the operator can switch between the combustion engine and the electric motor. The rotor can be arranged directly on a clutch bell of the clutch device.
US08317425B2 Mounting assembly
A tolerance ring (10) for providing an interference fit between inner and outer components (36, 50) is disclosed. The tolerance ring (10) comprises a deformable band having a plurality of radially extending projections around its circumference, wherein the projections include a set of axially spaced protuberances (12, 13) separated by a unformed region (11) circumferentially adjacent to an axially elongate protuberance (15), the axial extent of which spans the axial extent of the set of axially spaced protuberances. This arrangement of protuberances facilitates the transfer of retention force to a component that is composed of a plurality of independent parts, e.g. two or more bearings (54, 56) separated by a spacer (58).
US08317424B2 Oral care device
Oral care devices are provided that include a first component and a second component removably engaged with the first component; the first and second components having a respective fluid passageway extending therethrough, the respective passageways capable of fluid communication while the first and second components are engaged; and at least one of the first and second components including a sealing member constructed to allow fluid communication between the first and second passageways when the first and second passageways are engaged and to close the associated passageway when the first and second components are disengaged. Oral care devices are also provided that include a replaceable and refillable cartridge.
US08317423B2 Mascara for use with a vibrating applicator: compositions and methods
Compositions for use with a mascara applicator with vibrating applicator head. The frequency, amplitude and geometry of the vibrating head are sufficient to significantly alter the rheological properties of thixotropic and anti-thixotropic mascara compositions, including an effect that persists after the vibration has stopped. The mascara may be manipulated for improved results, greater flexibility in formulation, benefits in manufacture, as well as other benefits.
US08317421B2 Tape drive tension control
A tape drive comprising two motors, two tape spool supports on which spools of tape may be mounted, each spool being drivable by a respective one of the motors, and a controller. The controller controls the energization of the motors such that the tape may be transported in at least one direction between spools mounted on the spool supports. The controller is configured to store a plurality of motor control data items, each data item being associated with a respective tension value. The controller is operative to monitor tension in a tape being transported between spools mounted on the spool supports; read a motor control data item based upon the monitored tension; generate a motor control signal based upon the read motor control data item; and apply the motor control signal to at least one of the motors.
US08317419B2 Cassette for printer with thermal head contact portion
An ink ribbon cassette is inserted into and removed from a thermal transfer printer in the longitudinal direction of the thermal head. The thermal head is provided with a lifting member, while the ink ribbon cassette is provided with a contact element. The lifting member and the contact element of the ink ribbon cassette are configured to be in contact with each other during insertion and removal of the ink ribbon cassette, and thereby lift the thermal head to widen the space for the ink sheet to pass through.
US08317414B2 Dome camera enclosure with virtual tilt pivot mechanism
A surveillance camera arrangement includes a substantially spherical enclosure having a substantially round optical region. The optical region has better optical qualities than a remainder of the enclosure. A camera is disposed within the enclosure. The camera has a lens with an optical axis extending approximately through a midpoint of the optical region. An actuatable mechanism is coupled to the enclosure and to the camera. The mechanism pivots both the enclosure and the camera in both pan and tilt directions such that the optical axis of the camera remains substantially aligned with the midpoint of the optical region.
US08317402B2 Connecting rod bearing for internal combustion engines and connecting rod bearing device
Disclosed is a connecting rod bearing for crankshafts having a pair of semi-cylindrical bearings. Circumferential grooves (CG) on the bearing inner surface extend from each circumferential end toward the circumferential center within a maximum circumferential angle of 45 degrees and divide reduced wall thickness region into two sections. Axial grooves communicating with the CG are provided along abutted ends of the bearings. Circumferential length of the CG is larger than that of the reduced region. Depth of the CG becomes gradually smaller from the end toward the center. Width of the CG is not smaller than one-quarter of a diameter of lubricant-oil outlet of internal lubricant-oil passage in a crankpin and less than the diameter. Cross-sectional area of the CG is larger than that of the axial grooves at a connection portion thereof.
US08317399B2 Linear motion device comprising rotatably adjustable flange
A linear motion device, has a housing, an arm which is movably guided on the housing along a longitudinal axis and provided with two rolling surfaces composed of hardened steel and extending in direction of the longitudinal axis, the arm has a front end extending out of the housing, a separate receiving peg is fastened to the front end of the arm, a separate flange is fixed in position on the receiving peg in various rotary positions relative to the longitudinal axis, the rolling surfaces extend to a front end face of the arm, the flange is located in a region of the rolling surfaces directly adjacent to the front end face of the arm, and a separate orienting unit engages in a form-fit manner in the flange and in the rolling surfaces.
US08317397B2 Linear ball bearing
A linear ball bearing with a substantially sleeve-like cage for receiving axial ball loops distributed across the circumference of the cage. Each ball loop has a first ball channel open radially to the inside and outside for the row of the carrying ball, and a second ball channel open radially towards the outside for the row of the non-carrying balls and has deflection channels connecting the ball channels of a ball loop to each other. At least the first ball channel is covered on the outside by a load-bearing carrier plate. Individual support surfaces on the carrier plates rest on predetermined support regions on the outer lateral surface of the cage. The carrier plates are positioned via interacting positioning projections in the predetermined positions on the cage. The carrier plates, which rest against the cage, are fixed to the cage via holding rings that are slid over the carrier plates.
US08317396B2 Hybrid bearing cylinder
A hybrid bearing cylinder is formed to include a composite sleeve and a metallic jacket positioned around the composite sleeve. The outer diameter of the composite sleeve is less the inner diameter of the metallic jacket to form a pre-designed gap between the composite sleeve and the metallic jacket The metallic jacket of the hybrid bearing cylinder is adapted to be secured to metallic cylinder end caps by threading, welding, swaging, or other metal attachment methods.
US08317394B2 X-ray system having a DAP measurement chamber
An improved x-ray system having a DAP measurement chamber is provided. An x-ray system has a radiation path, which extends between an x-ray radiation source and a detector. A beam splitter is arranged in the radiation path, the beam splitter being used to inject visible light into the radiation path. The DAP measurement chamber is arranged in the radiation path between the x-ray radiation source and the beam splitter. An improved collimator having a DAP measurement chamber is also provided.
US08317393B2 Time domain digital temperature sensing system and method thereof
A digital temperature sensing system and method for converting a test temperature into a digital output signal are disclosed. The system comprises a temperature-to-time circuit for generating a thermally sensitive time signal of which a width varies with the test temperature; an adjustable time reference circuit for generating a time reference signal of which a width changes with the digital set value; a time comparator for generating a time comparison signal according to a width difference between the thermally sensitive time signal and the time reference signal; a logic control circuit for adjusting the digital set value of the adjustable time reference circuit according to the time comparison signal so that the width of the thermally sensitive time signal and the width of time reference signal are close enough or substantially equal.
US08317391B2 Device for pivoting an arbour in a time piece
The device for pivoting an arbour (11) in a timepiece, includes two pivots (12, 12′; 32) each forming one end of the arbour and two bearings for receiving the two pivots. Each of the pivots includes an approximately cylindrical portion (19, 19′; 39) and a convex rounded portion (13, 13′; 33) that extends the approximately cylindrical portion and gradually decreases in the direction of the end. Each of the bearings includes a pivoting structure (25; 35) held in place elastically, which includes an approximately cylindrical passage traversed by said approximately cylindrical portion (19, 19′; 39) of one of the pivots. The pivoting structure also includes a bearing surface against which the end of said pivot will abut. The pivoting device is characterized in that the pivoting structure of each of the bearings includes an aperture (16, 16′; 36; 46) that has a portion of inverted triangular or trapezoidal profile (16, 16′; 38; 46), and in that the convex rounded portion (13, 13′; 33) of one of the two pivots is for abutting against said inclined inner wall so that the arbour (11) is held axially between the inclined walls of the apertures of the two bearings.
US08317390B2 Stepped down gas mixing device
An apparatus and method for mixing gas streams of different temperatures and/or compositions contemplates that at least one of the streams contains particle. The apparatus includes a main duct for the first gas stream and a plurality of duct assemblies extending in the main duct generally transversely to the first gas stream. Each assembly has plural inlets and outlets for receiving and discharging separate parts of the second gas stream, moving initially generally transverse to the first stream. The assemblies each have plural secondary ducts of mutually different lengths from inlet to outlet, the outlets being spaced from each other across the main duct for distributing the parts of the second gas stream into the first gas stream. A gas flow deflector is connected to each duct assembly for temporarily deflecting the first gas stream before it is combined with the parts of the second gas stream.
US08317387B2 Light emitting diode package, and backlight unit and display device using the same
A light emitting diode package may be provided that includes a light emitting diode chip and a heat sink. Heat generated from the light emitting diode chip may be radiated to the outside using the heat sink.
US08317386B2 Laser-lit planar illumination device and LCD using such device
A planar illumination device includes an optical element outputting a diffusing light from a laser light source into an incident edge surface of a light guide plate. The optical element provides an output substantially parallel to a thickness direction of the light guide plate. A light deflecting unit, including a plurality of deflectors, is provided on a principal surface of the light guide plate for deflecting incident laser light towards an output surface of the light guide. The light deflecting unit is arranged such that a degree of deflection of the light incident on the light guide plate differs according to positions in the light guide plate, to make an amount of light outputted from the output surface uniform across such output surface.
US08317382B2 Enhanced LED illuminator
An ophthalmic illuminator is disclosed, one embodiment comprising: an illumination source and an optical fiber for transmitting a combined light beam from the illumination source to a site, such as a surgical site within an eye, wherein the illumination source comprises a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) chips optically coupled to a corresponding plurality of light pipes, the LED chips and light pipes arranged in a configuration such that the light pipes converge together at their distal ends to form a cubic box having five sides formed by the distal ends of the light guides and an open side from which the combined light beam, composed of light from a plurality of light beams generated by the LED chips and transmitted to the cubic box by the light guides, is emitted. The luminance of the combined light beam has a luminance greater than the luminance of any one of the plurality of LED chips.
US08317376B2 Illuminated bezel of charge port for electric vehicle
A pocket assembly is provided for mounting at a recess of a vehicle body where a charge port of the vehicle is located, the pocket assembly has a body mountable to a vehicle, wherein the body has a base portion and a bezel portion, at least one outer layer established at an outer surface of said bezel portion, wherein the at least one outer layer is viewable at the side of the vehicle when the charge port is being accessed by a user of the vehicle and an illumination source disposed at or behind said bezel portion, and an illumination source being operable to illuminate indicia established at or on the bezel portion.
US08317370B2 Lighting module and lighting system
A lighting module includes a light source, a heat sink, a case, and a fan. The light source has a light emitting surface and a bottom surface opposite thereto. The heat sink is disposed at the bottom surface of the light source and includes a heat sink mass having a heat dissipation surface, wherein the heat dissipation surface is opposite to the bottom surface. The case is disposed to the heat sink and has a module airflow inlet and a module airflow outlet. The fan is disposed to the case or the heat sink for driving airflow to sequentially pass through the module airflow inlet, the heat sink, and the module airflow outlet. The case is capable of making the flowing direction of the airflow passing the module airflow outlet the same as the light emitting direction of the light emitting from the light emitting surface.
US08317366B2 Light distributor
A light distributor includes a panel (202) having a textured surface (206) and a light distribution surface. A number of LEDs (204) are located in proximity to the textured surface. Some of the light (208, 212) impinging on the textured surface (206) is refracted or reflected (214, 216) into the panel (202) from where it can be transmitted through the distribution surface.
US08317364B2 Lighting apparatus
A lighting apparatus is broadly disclosed and embodied herein. The lighting apparatus may include a heat sink, a first reflector provided over the heat sink, a light emitting module provided at the first reflector, an enclosure provided over the heat sink to surround the light emitting module, and a second reflector provided over the light emitting module. At least a portion of the light emitted from the light emitting module may be reflected at least in a direction a prescribed angle below a horizontal plane of the light emitting module.
US08317363B2 LED lamp
An LED lamp includes a body, a first LED illuminant located at a side of the body and a second LED illuminant located at another side of the body opposite to the side of the body. An intersecting angle exists between the body and each of the first LED illuminant and the second LED illuminant so that light generated from the first LED illuminant and light generated from the second LED illuminant meet each other at a position above the body.
US08317359B2 Illumination device with light emitting diodes and moveable light adjustment member
A light emitting device is produced using one or more light emitting diodes within a light mixing cavity formed by surrounding sidewalls. The light emitting device includes a light adjustment member that is movable to alter the shape or color of the light produced by the light emitting device. For example, the light adjustment member may alter the exposure of the wavelength converting area to the light emitted that is emitted by the light emitting diode in the light mixing cavity. Alternatively, the height of a lens may be adjusted to change the width of the beam produced. Alternatively, a movable substrate with areas of different wavelength converting materials may adjustably cover the output port of the light mixing cavity to alter the color point of the light produced.
US08317351B2 Knife with a lighting system that includes an integrated circuit board
Disclosed is a knife that includes a knife blade and a tang configured for cutting a material. The tang of the knife includes a slot configured therewithin. Further, the knife includes a first handle plate. The first handle plate includes a protruding member configured therewithin. The first handle plate also includes a first cavity portion configured therewithin. Furthermore, the knife includes a second handle plate. The second handle plate includes a second cavity portion therewithin. Further, the knife includes an integrated circuit board mounted within the second cavity portion of the second handle plate. The knife also includes a holding member. The holding member is configured to receive at least one power source therewithin that is electrically coupled with the integrated circuit board. Further, the knife includes a micro-switch disposed within the first cavity portion of the first handle plate. The knife also includes at least one light-emitting member.
US08317346B2 Vehicle side view mirror system
A mirror assembly for a vehicle that has a double curved mirror positioned next to a vehicle side view mirror and said double curved mirror along with said side view mirror allows a user to view the lower perimeter of the vehicle in the side view mirror while operating the vehicle.
US08317345B2 Catoptric objectives and systems using catoptric objectives
In general, in one aspect, the invention features an objective arranged to image radiation from an object plane to an image plane, including a plurality of elements arranged to direct the radiation from the object plane to the image plane, wherein the objective has an image side numerical aperture of more than 0.55 and a maximum image side field dimension of more than 1 mm, and the objective is a catoptric objective.
US08317344B2 High NA annular field catoptric projection optics using Zernike polynomial mirror surfaces
Optical structure and design concepts are provided, using a Y-Zernike polynomial, and by which optical components, optical components and optical structures, can be designed and produced, to image at extreme ultraviolet (EUV) wavelengths, at a relatively high NA (e.g. 0.35), with a relatively large field of view (e.g. 26×2 mm). Moreover, an optical structure produced according to the principles of the present invention has a small amount of asymmetry, which enables the components of the optical structure to be manufactured with current manufacturing techniques.
US08317342B2 Surface preparation method for eliminating optical interference from absorption cavity mirrors
Optical mirror elements having a diffusive backing, methods for making such optical mirror elements, and devices incorporating such optical mirror elements. The optical mirror element typically includes a first, reflective surface, and a second surface having uneven or granular features, wherein light passing through the first surface is diffusely reflected by the uneven or granular features of the second surface. The optical mirror elements are particularly well suited for use in Herriott Cell arrangements in gas analyzers.
US08317340B2 Image reflecting adhesive patch
The instant invention is directed to an image reflecting adhesive patch comprising a reflective layer, an adhesive layer positioned on one surface of the reflective layer, and an image printed on a surface of the reflective layer opposed to the adhesive layer. When incident light reflects from the reflective layer it refracts at different angles thereby making the image, which is not reflected, discernible through the light reflected from the reflective layer. Another embodiment of the instant invention involves an image reflecting adhesive patch comprising a reflective layer, an adhesive layer positioned on one surface of the reflective layer, and a transparent layer containing a visible image, positioned on a surface of the reflective layer opposed to the adhesive layer. When incident light reflects from the reflective layer it refracts at different angles thereby making the image, which is not reflected, discernible through the light reflected from the reflective layer.
US08317337B2 Projector
A projector configured to modulate a luminous flux emitted from a light source in accordance with image information, forms an image light, and projects the image light, includes: an exterior housing having an intake vent for taking in the ambient air, and an insertion slot communicating with the intake vent; an anti-dust filter being installed in the exterior housing so as to be mountable in and removable from the exterior housing through the insertion slot, prevents dust from intruding into the exterior housing from the intake vent; and a cover configured so as to be switchable between an open condition in which it exposes the insertion slot, and a closed condition in which it covers the insertion slot.
US08317332B2 Adjustment device and projector having the same
An adjustment device for adjusting an angle of a dichroic mirror of a projector with respect to an optical engine base of the projector is disclosed. The dichroic mirror is pivotably mounted to the optical engine base. The adjustment device includes a link and an eccentric screw. The link has a first end and a second end. The first end is adapted to be fixedly mounted to the dichroic mirror. The second end has an opening. The eccentric screw is adapted to extend through the opening to be screwed to the optical engine base. The eccentric screw includes an eccentric section disposed within the opening. The eccentric section pushes the link such that the link drives the dichroic mirror to pivot with respect to the optical engine base upon rotating of the eccentric screw. A projector including the adjustment device is also disclosed.
US08317330B2 Image display apparatus
The image display apparatus forms first and second images in mutually different viewing angle areas to display a combined (joined) image. The apparatus includes first and second image-forming elements respectively forming first and second original images, a first optical system reflecting a first light flux from the first image-forming element at least twice to introduce the first light flux to an exit pupil, and a second optical system reflecting a second light flux from the second image-forming element at least twice to introduce the second light flux to the first optical system. The first optical system introduces the first light flux and the second light flux from the second optical system to the exit pupil such that the first and second images respectively corresponding to the first and second original images are formed in the mutually different viewing angle areas in a first cross section.
US08317329B2 Infotainment display on full-windshield head-up display
A method to display an infotainment graphic upon a surface within a vehicle includes monitoring a source of infotainment content; determining the infotainment graphic based upon monitoring the source of infotainment content, and displaying the infotainment graphic upon the surface including a material reactive to display graphics in response to an excitation projector, wherein the excitation projector includes an ultraviolet projector.
US08317328B1 Device for administering a gaze nystagmus field sobriety test
Various embodiments of a device for performing a gaze field sobriety test are disclosed. The device includes a housing. A light source is affixed in or on the housing. The light source generates light during at least a portion of the gaze field sobriety test. A speaker positioned in or on the housing generates sounds during at least a portion of the gaze field sobriety test. A power source is coupled to the speaker and the light source. An input is positioned on the housing. The input is selectable by a test administrator to initiate an audible sound through the speaker at a predetermined time interval during at least a portion of the gaze field sobriety test. The audible sound provides an indication to the test administrator during the gaze field sobriety test to assist in proper performance of the gaze field sobriety test.
US08317327B2 System and method for eyeball surface topography as a biometric discriminator
An embodiment of the present invention is a system for identifying a user by observing irregularities on the surface of an eyeball of the user includes a topography system and a gaze tracking system. The topography system obtains one or more discernable features of the eyeball and stores the one or more discernable features. The gaze tracking system observes the irregularities, compares the irregularities to the one or more discernable features, and identifies the user if the irregularities and the one or more discernable features match.
US08317325B2 Apparatus and method for two eye imaging for iris identification
The apparatus represents a device having one or two sensors for capturing a single image or two images having the subject's eyes, and processor(s) in a housing with the one or two sensors and/or in a computer system which receives the single image or two images. Such processor(s) determine a head tilt angle between a virtual line extending between the two eyes of the subject in accordance with a predefined features associated with the eyes and a dimension characterizing zero head tilt in the single image or two images, segment left and right iris images, and rotate the segmented left and right iris images in accordance with the angle to substantially remove head tilt when present. The apparatus may also determine head tilt using predefined features associated with a single eye in the image. The resulting iris image(s) are utilized for enrollment or identification.
US08317323B2 Contact lens and method of manufacture
The invention relates to a method of designing a soft contact lens, said lens having a central optic zone and with a peripheral zone around the central optic zone; the method comprising the steps of: (a) defining a back surface of the lens which is a satisfactory fit to the surface of a subject's cornea; (b) defining a front surface of the lens over at least the central optic zone, which surface is selected so as to ameliorate the subject's vision defects; (c) checking that the lens meets a desired range of thickness values at one or more selected parts of the lens and, if not, recalculating the front surface over at least the central optic zone so as to meet said desired thickness value range, wherein the lens is to be made of a substance having a Young's modulus in the range 0.08 to 0.40 MPa, and wherein the junction thickness of the lens is in the range 0.15-0.40 mm.
US08317319B2 Co-axial multi-tip eyeglass retainer coupling and method of use
An eyeglass retainer coupling having a plurality of co-axially aligned connection apertures, each aperture having a different inside diameter designed to accommodate the wide variety of modern eyeglass and sunglass frame styles and sizes. A large frame eyeglass temple can be inserted into the outmost connection aperture for sufficient retention. Whereas, a medium or small frame temple may be inserted through one or more of the larger connection apertures and into a connection aperture having a proper fit. The user may also choose to cut away or remove oversize connection apertures if the eyeglass retainer is used for eyeglasses having small temple earpieces.