最新美国发明专利第2012-12-25期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

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US08338599B2	Compounds having a potentiating effect on the activity of ethionamide and uses thereof The present invention relates to the use of compounds with a potentiating effect on the activity of antibiotics that are activatable via the EthA enzymatic pathway, for the preparation of a medicament for preventing and/or treating mycobacterial infections such as tuberculosis and leprosy, to pharmaceutical compositions comprising them in combination with an antibiotic that is activatable via the EthA pathway, to compounds having a potentiating effect on the activity of antibiotics that are activatable via the EthA enzymatic pathway, to pharmaceutical compositions comprising them and to their use as medicaments, especially medicaments for preventing and/or treating mycobacterial infections such as tuberculosis and leprosy.
US08338595B2	Pyrrolotriazine derivatives useful for treating hyper-proliferative disorders and diseases associated with angiogenesis This invention relates to pyrrozolotriazine compounds, pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds and the use of those compounds and compositions for the prevention and/or treatment of hyper-proliferative disorders and diseases associated with angiogenesis.
US08338594B2	Pyrrolotriazine derivatives useful for treating cancer through inhibition of aurora kinase This invention relates to novel compounds and processes for their preparation, methods of treating diseases, particularly Cancer, comprising administering said compounds, and methods of making pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment or prevention of disorders, particularly Cancer.
US08338592B2	Fused thiazole derivatives as kinase inhibitors A series of 6,7-dihydro[1,3]thiazolo[5,4-c]pyridin-4(5H)-one derivatives, which are substituted in the 2-position by a substituted morpholin-4-yl moiety, being selective inhibitors of PI3 kinase enzymes, are accordingly of benefit in medicine, for example in the treatment of inflammatory, autoimmune, cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, metabolic, oncological, nociceptive or ophthalmic conditions.
US08338590B2	Substituted oxindole derivatives and medicaments containing the same The present invention relates to novel oxindole derivatives of the general formula (I), wherein the substitutes A, B, R1, R2 and R3 are as defined in Claim 1, and medicaments containing the same for the prophylaxis and/or treatment of vasopressin-dependent or oxytocin-dependent diseases.
US08338588B2	Methanesulfonate salts of abiraterone-3-esters and recovery of salts of abirater one-3-esters from solution in methyl tert-butyl ether A salt of a compound of formula (I) may be made with methanesulfonic acid. The salt and salts with other acids may be prepared by recovering from methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE).
US08338587B2	Compounds The present invention provides named compounds of formula (I) and pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use in therapy.
US08338573B2	Crystal structure of CD147 extracellular region and use thereof A crystal, a preparation method and 3D structure of CD147 extracellular region are provided. Such 3D structure is useful in the determination of the active site of CD147 extracellular region by computer modeling or molecular docking method. The crystal and/or 3D structure are useful in a structure-based drug design and the selection of an antibody, a ligand or an interacting molecule of CD 147 extracellular region.
US08338571B2	Recombinant factor VIII having increased stability The present invention relates to a recombinant factor VIII that includes one or more mutations that result in enhanced stability of both factor VIII and factor VIIIa. Methods of making and using the recombinant factor VIII, and pharmaceutical compositions containing the same are also disclosed. The present invention further relates to an isolated nucleic acid molecule that encodes the recombinant factor VIII, as well as DNA expression systems and host cells containing the isolated nucleic acid molecule.
US08338570B2	Collagen fibrillar construction Methods and compositions are described for organizing collagen into fibrillar networks, e.g, short and long-range organization. Collagen produced by the disclosed methods can be used for tissue engineering.
US08338567B2	Pharmaceutical compositions for treating diseases associated with NF-κB activity A method of treating a disease associated with NF-κB activity. The method is effected by providing to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of an agent capable of modulating NIK-HC8 binding.
US08338560B2	Polyimide film and use thereof The present invention provides a polyimide film and its usage. The polyimide film according to the present invention does not cause dimensional change due to thermal stress. The present invention particularly relates to a polyimide film and its usage, which polyimide film has a characteristic of suppressing thermal deformation of the material in lamination of a polyimide film and a metal layer by a laminate method. The polyimide film according to the present invention has the following characteristics: (1) an inflexion point of storage modulus ranges from 270° C. to 340° C.; (2) tan δ, which is a value obtained by dividing a loss elastic modulus by a storage modulus, has a peak-top in a range of 320° C. to 410° C.; (3) a storage modulus at 380° C. ranges from 0.4 GPa to 2.0 GPa; and (4) a storage modulus α1 at the inflexion point (GPa) and a storage modulus α2 at 380° C. (GPa) satisfy: 85≧{(α1−α2)/α1}×100≧65. With these characteristics, the polyimide film gives an effect of suppressing thermal deformation of the material in lamination of a polyimide film and a metal layer by a laminate method.
US08338555B2	Photopolymers and their use in organic thin film transistors Photopolymers are provided with composites and electronic devices including such photopolymers. Specifically, organic thin film transistors comprising a semiconductor layer, a polymeric layer in contact with the semiconductor layer, a gate electrode, a source electrode and a drain electrode are disclosed, wherein the semiconductor layer comprises an organic semiconductor compound, and the polymeric layer comprises a photocrosslinked product of a photopolymer.
US08338553B2	Solvatochromic molecularly imprinted polymer for chemosensing Disclosed are a solvatochromic functional monomer having the chemical structure and a process for preparing the same. The solvatochromic functional monomer can be used for fabrication of molecularly imprinted polymer based (MIP-based) solvatochromic chemosensors. This involves the incorporation of the solvatochromic functional monomer as reporter into the molecularly imprinted polymer. The solvatochromic functional monomers as reporters signal the analyte-to-receptor displacing event within the receptor sites without the need for intermolecular interaction between the analyte and the receptor.
US08338551B2	Polymer films Method for the preparation of a blown film containing 300-600 gels/m2 of size in the range 100-2000 μm as measured by an optical control system, in which the film is derived by extrusion from an ethylene-α-olefin copolymer. The method is carried out by preparing the copolymer in a particle forming polymerization process in the presence of a single site catalyst system containing a single site catalyst, a cocatalyst, and a support material.
US08338547B2	Polymer alloy and production method thereof To provide a structure material having excellent mechanical characteristics and a functional material having excellent regularity, provided are a polymer alloy which is composed of at least two components of thermoplastic resins and of which the structure can be controlled finely and evenly dispersed and a production method of the polymer alloy. With respect to a polymer alloy composed of at least two or more components of thermoplastic resins, a precursor (A) of at least one thermoplastic resin among the thermoplastic resin components composing the polymer alloy is chemically reacted in the co-presence of the remaining thermoplastic resin component (B1) and/or a precursor (B2) of the thermoplastic resin component to induce spinodal decomposition, so that it is made possible to obtain a polymer alloy having excellent regularity and of which the structure is finely controllable and the structure is evenly dispersed.
US08338546B2	Composition of polythiophene-based conductive polymers having high conductivity, transparency, waterproof property and a membrane prepared using the same The present invention relates to a polythiophene-based conductive polymer composition having high conductivity, transparency, waterproof property and durability, and a polymer membrane prepared by using the same. In particular, the present invention relates to a polythiophene-based conductive polymer composition comprising an aqueous solution of a polythiophene-based conductive polymer, an alcohol-based organic solvent, an amide-based organic solvent or an aprotic highly-dipolar solvent, a melamine resin and a binder selected among a polyester, a polyurethane resin and an alkoxy silane in a predetermined mixed ratio. The membrane prepared using the same has a high conductivity of less than 1 kΩ/m2 and a high transparency of higher than 95%, thus being applicable to of an anti-static film, a film for touch panel, a film for higher or lower electrode, a film for inorganic EL and a film for display electrode.
US08338540B2	Polymeric compositions and processes for molding articles The present invention is directed to polymeric article comprising a blend of (a) a first polymeric component; (b) a second polymeric component, the second polymeric component including a propylene elastomer or a substantially linear or linear ethylene polymer; and (c) at least one reinforcement material. The polymeric articles desirably have one or more of the following characteristics: a soft touch feel, a low gloss appearance, or a high surface durability.
US08338537B2	Surface modifying macromolecules with high degradation temperatures and uses thereof The invention relates to surface modifying macromolecules (SMMs) having high degradation temperatures and their use in the manufacture of articles made from base polymers which require high temperature processing. The surface modifier is admixed with the base polymer to impart alcohol and water repellency properties.
US08338536B2	Adhesive compositions for use in die attach applications Novel adhesive compositions that can be used in the die attach process. The adhesives include a curable resin component, a curing agent, and a block copolymer additive. The block copolymer additive has a glass transition temperature of at least about 40° C. The block copolymer additive improves the affinity of the adhesive composition to a hydrophilic substrate, such as a silicon wafer, during the die pickup process. Also disclosed is an assembly which includes a hydrophilic substrate and a layer of adhesive and methods of producing the assembly.
US08338533B2	Impact-modified polycarbonate compositions The present invention relates to non-aging, impact-modified polycarbonate compositions and molding compositions comprising: A) from 60 to 86 parts by weight (based on the sum of components A+B+C) of aromatic polycarbonate and/or aromatic polyester carbonate, B) from 4 to 12 parts by weight (based on the sum of components A+B+C) of graft polymer comprising: B.1 from 10 to 50 wt. % (based on the graft polymer B) of a shell of at least one vinyl monomer, and B.2 from 90 to 50 wt. % (based on the graft polymer B) of a graft base of silicone-acrylate composite rubber, C) from 10 to 30 parts by weight (based on the sum of components A+B+C) of a polymer or copolymer based on vinyl monomer, and D) from 0 to 20 parts by weight of polymer additives. Components B and C are present in a ratio of the parts by weight of B:C in the range from 1:1.3 to 1:3.5. A composition of the present invention is generally free of inorganic fillers, and is distinguished by an improved balance of multiaxial low-temperature impact strength and flowability, good dyeability and a high heat distortion resistance.
US08338524B2	Glass compositions Disclosed is a glass composition which can be suitably used as a glass filler to be blended into a polycarbonate resin. This glass composition contains, in mass %, 50≦SiO2≦60, 8≦Al2O3≦15, 0≦MgO≦10, 10≦CaO≦30, 0≦Li2O+Na2O+K2O<2, and 5
US08338516B1	Method of preparing silicone-modified tackifier A pressure sensitive adhesive composition including silicone-modified tackifier. The silicone-modified tackifier is produced by reacting reactive silicone with tackifier. Laminates made with the pressure sensitive adhesive have improved guillotinability.
US08338512B2	Electrically conducting organic polymer/nanoparticle composites and method for use thereof Compositions are provided comprising aqueous dispersions of electrically conducting organic polymers and a plurality of nanoparticles wherein pH can be adjusted for improved organic electronic device performance. Films deposited from invention compositions are useful as buffer layers in electroluminescent devices, such as organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) and electrodes for thin film field effect transistors. Buffer layers containing nanoparticles may have a much lower conductivity than buffer layers without nanoparticles. In addition, when incorporated into an electroluminescent (EL) device, buffer layers according to the invention contribute to higher stress life of the EL device.
US08338510B2	Photosensitive siloxane composition, cured film formed therefrom and device having the cured film Various embodiments provide a photosensitive siloxane composition containing (a) polysiloxane, (b) a quinone diazide compound, (c) a solvent, and (d) one or more kinds of specified imidosilane compounds. Various embodiments also provide a cured film obtained by applying and/or patterning the photosensitive siloxane composition. Various embodiments further provide a device including the cured film.
US08338509B2	System and method for pre-treatment of rubber-modified asphalt cement, and emulsions thereof This invention encompasses asphalt cement emulsions, as well as methods for preparing a pre-treated rubber-modified asphalt cement emulsions and methods for coating industrial surfaces using asphalt cement emulsions.
US08338508B2	Water-sensitive film containing an olefinic elastomer A film that is both elastic and water-sensitive (e.g., water-soluble, water-dispersible, etc.) in that it loses its integrity over time in the presence of water is provided. To achieve these dual attributes, the film contains an olefinic elastomer and a water-soluble polymer. Although these polymers are normally chemically incompatible due to their different polarities, the present inventors have discovered that phase separation may be minimized by selectively controlling certain aspects of the film, such as the nature of the polyolefin, water-soluble polymer, and other film components, the relative amount of the film components, and so forth. For example, certain water-soluble polymers may be selected that have a low molecular weight and viscosity to enhance their melt compatibility with nonpolar polyolefins. This, in turn, may result in a film that is generally free of separate phases, which would otherwise limit the ability of the water-soluble polymer to contact water and disperse.
US08338505B2	Alumina-enhanced polyester resins and methods for making the same The invention embraces polymer resins, such as polyethylene terephthalate resin, that includes surface-compatibilized alumina. The invention also embraces methods of making polyethylene terephthalate resins that are capable of being formed into low-haze, high-clarity articles possessing reduced coefficient of friction.
US08338500B2	Binder composition and photosensitive composition including the same The present invention relates a binder composition and a photosensitive composition including the binder composition. In one embodiment, a binder composition includes a copolymer of monomer M1, M2, M3, M4, an iso octyl 3-mercaptopropionate and a thermal initiator, wherein the monomer M1 can be represented by the following formula: the monomers M2, M3 and M4 can be represented by the following formula, however the monomers M2, M3 and M4 are different from each other, wherein R1, R2, R3 can be selected from the group consisting of hydrogen and alkyl group, R4 is an aromatic group, R5 can be selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, aromatic groups, alkyl groups, substituted alkyl groups and alkyl groups interrupted by an oxygen atom. The copolymer has good developing ability and a black matrices made therefrom has good mechanical properties.
US08338498B2	Polymeric bone defect filler A bone defect filler for implantation in a bone defect of a patient includes a particulate polymer distributed within a polymeric binder. The particulate polymer includes a plurality of particles, which may have substantially the same material composition as the polymeric binder. The particles of the particulate polymer may be formed in a variety of shapes and/or sizes to provide the bone defect filler with improved pore interconnectivity, material expansion and contamination characteristics, while maintaining sufficient mechanical strength and handling characteristics for bone repair applications. The bone defect filler also provides the flexibility to be molded or shaped in situ to fill the bone defect.
US08338495B2	Method for efficient use of heat from tubular reformer In a GTL process of producing various kinds of hydrocarbon oils from natural gas, provided is improved heat efficiency in the case of using a steam reforming process or a carbon dioxide reforming process in the reforming. The process includes producing a synthesis gas by converting the natural gas and at least one of steam and carbon dioxide into a synthesis gas through a tubular reformer filled with a reforming catalyst, producing Fischer-Tropsch oil by subjecting the produced synthesis gas to a Fischer-Tropsch reaction, and upgrading in which the Fischer-Tropsch oil is subjected to hydrotreatment and distillation to produce various kinds of hydrocarbon oils, in which excess heat generated in the synthesis gas production is recovered, and the recovered heat is used as heat for at least one of hydrotreatment and distillation in the upgrading.
US08338494B2	Nanoparticles from slightly oxidised cellulose The present invention provides novel nanoscale cellulose particles and also a process for their production. The cellulose-based particles obtained have volume-averaged particle sizes of less than 300 run. These nanoparticles are produced from slightly oxidized cellulose and by input of energy into a water-containing medium after or during dispersion.
US08338493B2	Method for improving efficacy of surfactants prevention of lamellar mesophases temperature stabilization of the single phase region and a method for reducing boundary surface tension in micro-emulsions containing silicone oils by means of additives and surfactant/oil mixtures Disclosed is a method for improving efficacy of surfactants, prevention of lamellar mesophases, temperature stabilization of the single phase region and a method for reducing boundary surface tension in micro-emulsions containing silicone oils by means of additives and a surfactant/oil mixture. The above effects are achieved, whereby an additive of a block copolymer with a water-soluble block A and a block B which is either a polyalkylene oxide with at least 4 C atoms in the monomer component or a polydiene or a partially or completely hydrogenated polydiene or polyalkane, is added to the micro-emulsion.
US08338488B2	Use of at least one oxime derivative of 3,5-seco-4-nor-cholestane as antioxidants The invention relates to the use of at least one oxime derivative of 3,5-seco-4-norcholestane as antioxidants in the cosmetics and food fields, and as antioxidant preservatives that can be used, in particular, in cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical products.
US08338487B2	Substituted arylamino-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro naphthalenes and -2,3-dihydro-1H-indenes as potassium channel modulators This invention provides compounds of formula I where Ar1 is a 5- to 10-member mono- or bicyclic aromatic group, optionally substituted; where the —NR3R4 group is situated ortho to the NHC(═X) group; n=1 or 2; X=O or S; Y is O or S; and q=1 or 0. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising compounds of formula I and/or salts, esters, and prodrugs thereof. These compounds modulate the activation and inactivation of potassium channels. The compounds are useful for the treatment and prevention of diseases and disorders—such as seizure disorders—which are affected by modulation of potassium ion channels.
US08338483B2	Method for producing acylglycinates The invention relates to a method for producing acylglycinates of formula (I) wherein R1 represents a linear or branched, saturated alkanoyl group having between 6 and 30 carbon atoms, or a linear or branched, mono- or polyunsaturated alkenoyl group having between 6 and 30 carbon atoms, and Q+ represents a cation selected from the alkali metals Li+, Na+ and K+, characterised in that glycine comprises fatty acid chloride R1Cl, wherein R1 which has the meaning given in formula (I), is provided in water and in presence of a basic alkali compound, the cations Q+ are selected from Li+, Na+ and K+, but in the absence of organic solvents, is reacted at between 30-35 DEG C, and the proportion of fatty acid chloride R1Cl containing acyl groups R1 having 18 or more carbon atoms, in relation to the total amount of used fatty acid chloride, is less than 2.0% in wt.
US08338474B2	Use of phthalimide and/or sulphonamide derivatives in the treatment of diseases which require reducing the TNF-α levels and an exogenous source of nitric oxide, phthalimide derivatives, sulphonamide derivatives, and a method for obtaining a sulphonamide derivative Preparation and use of phthalimide and/or sulphonamide derivatives with nitric oxide donor properties, having activities in increasing gamma-globin gene expression and anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities, effective in the treatment of hematologic diseases which require reducing the TNF-α levels and an exogenous source of nitric oxide, such as sickle-cell disease. The functionalized phthalimide derivatives are designed from the prototypes thalidomide and hydroxyurea.
US08338473B2	Derivatives of psammaplin A, a method for their synthesis and their uses for the prevention or treatment of cancer Derivatives of psammaplin A responding to formula (I), a method for their synthesis and their use for the preparation of a medicament for preventing and for treating a tumor or a cancer. Formula (I).
US08338470B1	Dexmedetomidine premix formulation The presently disclosed subject matter relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising dexmedetomidine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof wherein the composition is formulated as a liquid for parenteral administration to a subject, and wherein the composition is disposed within a sealed container as a premixture. The pharmaceutical compositions can be used, for example, in perioperative care of a patient or for sedation.
US08338466B2	Apoptosis-inducing agents for the treatment of cancer and immune and autoimmune diseases Disclosed are compounds which inhibit the activity of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins, compositions containing the compounds and methods of treating diseases during which is expressed anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein.
US08338461B2	1-heterocyclylsulfonyl, 3-aminomethyl, 5-(hetero-)aryl substituted 1-H-pyrrole derivatives as acid secretion inhibitors The present invention provides a compound having a superior acid secretion inhibitory effect and showing an antiulcer activity and the like. The present invention provides a compound represented by the formula (I) wherein R1 is a nitrogen-containing monocyclic heterocyclic group optionally condensed with a benzene ring or a heterocycle, the nitrogen-containing monocyclic heterocyclic group optionally condensed with a benzene ring or a heterocycle optionally has substituent(s), R2 is an optionally substituted C6-14 aryl group, an optionally substituted thienyl group or an optionally substituted pyridyl group, R3 and R4 are each a hydrogen atom, or one of R3 and R4 is a hydrogen atom and the other is an optionally substituted lower alkyl group, an acyl group, a halogen atom, a cyano group or a nitro group, and R5 is an alkyl group or a salt thereof.
US08338459B2	Compounds, compositions and methods for stabilizing transthyretin and inhibiting transthyretin misfolding Compounds, compositions and methods are provided for stabilizing transthyretin and for treating, preventing, or ameliorating one or more symptoms of transthyretin mediated diseases. In one embodiment, the compounds are benzoxazoles and related compounds.
US08338458B2	Method of treatment using fused aromatic compounds having anti-diabetic activity Fused aromatic compounds of Formula I are PPAR gamma agonists or partial agonists and are useful for weekly dosing in the treatment or control of type II diabetes, including hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, hyperlipidemia, hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and obesity that are often associated with type 2 diabetes.
US08338451B2	Polysubstituted derivatives of 2-heteroaryl-6-phenylimidazo[1,2-a]pyridines, and preparation and therapeutic use thereof Compounds of formula (I): wherein R, R1, R2, R3, R4 and X are as defined in the disclosure, or an acid addition salt thereof, and the therapeutic use and process of synthesis thereof.
US08338448B2	Chemokine receptor modulators The invention provides compounds of Formula (I) and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, solvates, tautomers, stereoisomers, and/or esters thereof. These compounds, and pharmaceutical composition comprising such compounds are useful treating or preventing HIV infections, and in treating proliferative disorders such as inhibiting the metastasis of various cancers.
US08338443B2	Chemical compounds The use of a compound of formula I wherein Y is a single bond, C═O, C═S or S(O)m, where m is 0, 1 or 2; the ring is a 6-membered aromatic or is a 5 or 6 membered heteroaromatic ring; Z and Z′ are joined by a single or a double bond and are ═C— or —N— provided that both are not N; Ra, R1, R2, R3, R3a, R4 and R8 are specified organic groups; n is 2, 3 or 4 and p is 0-4; or salts or N-oxides thereof or compositions containing them in controlling insects, acarines, nematodes or molluscs. Novel compounds are also provided.
US08338441B2	Inhibitors of human immunodeficiency virus replication Compounds of formula I: wherein a, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5 and R6 are defined herein, are useful as inhibitors of HIV replication.
US08338432B2	Derivatives of 6,7-dihydro-3H-oxazolo[3,4-a]pyrazine-5,9-dione as PDE-5 inhibitors A series of derivatives of 6,7-dihydro-3H-oxazolo[3,4-a]pyrazine-5,8-dione, mixtures thereof, their pharmaceutically acceptable salts, which are inhibitors of PDE-5, possessing vasodilatator properties and relaxing effects. In particular, compounds of formula (I), where R1, R2, R3, and R4 are defined herein, processes for the preparation of said compounds, pharmaceutical compositions containing them, as well as uses as inhibitors of the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5) in the treatment of the erectile dysfunction and PDE-5 inhibitor treatable disorders.
US08338429B2	2-acylaminothiazole derivative or salt thereof A 2-acylaminothiazole derivative or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof having an excellent effect of proliferating human c-mpl-Ba/F3 cells and an activity of increasing platelets based on the effect of promoting the formation of megakaryocytic colonies. A compound or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof useful in treating thrombocytopenia.
US08338428B2	Methods for administering aripiprazole The present invention relates, in part, to the discovery that a pharmaceutical composition comprising aripiprazole and a carrier administered in a bolus injection resulted in an extended release profile similar to that obtained by the injection of a poly lactide-co-glycolide microsphere formulation containing the active agent. This surprising result suggests that pharmacologically beneficial extended release formulations without the complexities and expense associated with the manufacture microspheres.
US08338426B2	Piperazinyl derivatives useful as modulators of the neuropeptide Y2 receptor The present invention is directed to piperazinyl derivatives useful as inhibitors of the NPY Y2 receptor, pharmaceutical compositions comprising said compounds, processes for the preparation of said compounds and the use of said compounds for the treatment and/or prevention of disorders, diseases and conditions mediated by the NPY Y2 receptor.
US08338422B2	Indolin-2-ones and aza-indolin-2-ones The present invention relates to compounds or pharmaceutically-acceptable salts thereof, processes for preparing them, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use in therapy. The invention particularly relates to certain indolin-2-ones and aza-indolin-2-ones which possess anti-tumor activity and are accordingly useful in methods of treatment of the human or animal body, in particular such compounds are useful in the treatment of pathological processes which involve an aberrant cellular proliferation, such as tumor growth, rheumatoid arthritis, restenosis and atherosclerosis.
US08338421B2	Compositions and methods for reversing rebound hyperemia The invention generally relates to compositions and methods for inducing vasoconstriction with low incidence of rebound hyperemia. The compositions comprise highly selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists, at low concentrations, such as below 0.05% weight by volume. The compositions preferably comprise brimonidine. The compositions preferably have pH between about 5.5 and about 6.5.
US08338419B2	N-thio-anthranilamid compounds and their use as pesticides N-Thio-anthranilamid compounds of formula (I) wherein A is a group selected from A1 and A2 wherein the variables and the indices are as defined per the description, processes for preparing the compounds I, pesticidal compositions comprising compounds I, use of compounds I for the control of insects, acarids or nematodes, and methods for treating, controlling, preventing or protecting animals against infestation or infection by parasites by use of compounds of formula I.
US08338418B2	Dual-acting antihypertensive agents In one aspect, the invention relates to compounds having the formula: wherein: Ar, r, Z, X, R3, and R5-7 are as defined in the specification, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. These compounds have AT1 receptor antagonist activity and neprilysin inhibition activity. In another aspect, the invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds; methods of using such compounds; and process and intermediates for preparing such compounds.
US08338412B2	Inhibitors of P38 The present invention relates to inhibitors of p38, a mammalian protein kinase involved cell proliferation, cell death and response to extracellular stimuli. The invention also relates to methods for producing these inhibitors. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising the inhibitors of the invention and methods of utilizing those compositions in the treatment and prevention of various disorders.
US08338410B2	Neuroprotective compounds and pharmaceutical compositions comprising them This invention relates to the use of at least one compound of the following formula (I): or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts, for the preparation of a medicinal compound having neuroprotective activity intended to prevent or treat neurone deteriorations.
US08338408B2	Tetracyclic compounds This disclosure relates to new tetracyclic compounds that may be used to modulate a histamine receptor in an individual. The compounds in one embodiment are tetracyclic [4,3-b]indoles. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds are also provided, as are methods of using the compounds in a variety of therapeutic applications, including the treatment of a cognitive disorder, psychotic disorder, neurotransmitter-mediated disorder and/or a neuronal disorder.
US08338406B2	Benzodiazepine compound and pharmaceutical composition The present invention provides a novel benzodiazepine compound that blocks the IKur current or the Kv1.5 channel potently and more selectively than other K+ channels. The benzodiazepine compound of the invention is represented by General Formula (1) wherein R1, R2, R3, and R4 are each independently hydrogen or lower alkyl; R2 and R3 may be linked to form lower alkylene; A1 is lower alkylene optionally substituted with one or more hydroxy; and R5 is group represented by wherein R6 and R7 are each independently hydrogen or organic group; XA and XB are each independently bond, lower alkylene, etc.
US08338400B2	Methods and apparatus for transdermal or transmucosal application of testosterone Methods, formulations, and devices for providing transdermal or transmucosal delivery of testosterone to female subjects in need thereof. The formulations and methods treat symptoms of hormonal disorders including hypogonadism, female sexual desire disorder, female menopausal disorder, and adrenal insufficiency.
US08338397B2	Composition and method of treating side effects from antibiotic treatment A method of treating side effects of antibiotic treatment includes the step of internally administering an antibiotic that is capable of inducing hearing loss in a mammal. The method further includes the step of internally administering a composition to the mammal in conjunction with administration of the antibiotic. The composition includes a biologically effective amount of at least one scavenger of singlet oxygen, vitamin E, vitamin C, and a vasodilator comprising magnesium. The combination of vitamins and the vasodilator comprising magnesium, in the biologically effective amounts, provides an effective treatment for treating side effects of antibiotic treatment.
US08338392B2	MicroRNA modulators and method for identifying and using the same The present invention is a method for identifying agents which modulate microRNA activity. The invention involves contacting a cell harboring a microRNA and a microRNA binding sequence, which is operably linked to a nucleic acid molecule encoding a reporter protein, with a test agent increases or decreases the expression of the reporter protein thereby identifying a microRNA modulator. Antagonists identified by this screening assay are provided, as are methods for using the same to inhibit microRNA activity and prevent or treat disease.
US08338391B2	Phosphine-borane compound and method for producing the same, and method for producing hydrogen-phosphine-borane compound An object of the present invention is to provide an optically active phosphine-borane compound and a method for producing the same which are useful for the production of an optically active phosphine ligand and allow easy production of any antipode. There is provided a phosphine-borane compound represented by the following general formula (P-1). There is also provided a method for producing the phosphine-borane compound, the method comprising subjecting a hydrogen-phosphine-borane compound represented by the following general formula (P-2) to a coupling reaction with an optically active isocyanate compound represented by the following general formula (3). In the following formulae, R1 and R2 each represent a hydrogen atom, a hydrocarbon group, or a substituted hydrocarbon group and may be selected so that asymmetry may be induced on the phosphorus atom by the presence of these groups, or may be selected so that asymmetry may not be induced; and R3 represents an asymmetric hydrocarbon group or an asymmetric substituted hydrocarbon group.
US08338384B2	Method for treating ocular neovascularization Methods are provided for the treatment of ocular neovascularization by increasing, in an individual afflicted with ocular neovascularization, in vivo concentrations of an endostatin protein in the ocular tissues of the individual to an ocular neovascularization inhibiting effective amount, where the endostatin protein has anti-ocular neovascularization activity in vivo.
US08338374B2	Stable growth hormone liquid formulation The present invention is directed to stable liquid growth hormone formulations that remain stable after physical agitation, and after exposure to one or more freeze-thaw events. Formulations of the present invention can be stored long term at a variety of temperatures, even frozen. In the present invention, a combination of buffer and stabilizing agents, including a non-ionic surfactant (e.g., polysorbate 20), a polymer stabilizer (e.g., polyethylene glycol), and other optional stabilizers combine to provide unexpected stability to aqueous formulations of a growth hormone (e.g., human growth hormone).
US08338373B2	Method for reducing the risk of spontaneous abortion in a human female subject Methods and kits for preventing or reducing the likelihood of implantation failure or spontaneous abortion in a recipient of FET, ICSI, GIFT or ZIFT are provided. The methods include administering into a recipient of FET, ICSI, GIFT or ZIFT in need of such treatment an effective amount of granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF).
US08338370B2	Methods and compositions for promoting organ development Compositions and methods are provided for promoting organ development in warm blooded animals, and in particular in certain aspects a premature infant or foetus. Compositions and methods are also provided for the administration of at least one colony stimulating factor-1 protein (CSF-1), precursor, variant, analogue, derivative thereof, or combinations thereof, or otherwise, at least one nucleic acid molecule encoding colony stimulating factor-1 protein (CSF-1), precursor, variant, analogue, derivative thereof, or combinations thereof.
US08338368B2	Glucagon analogs exhibiting physiological solubility and stability Modified glucagon peptides are disclosed having improved solubility and stability, wherein the native glucagon peptide has been modified by pegylation, or the addition of a carboxy terminal peptide selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO: 19, SEQ ID NO: 20, SEQ ID NO: 21, or both.
US08338367B2	Fused heteroaryl diamide compounds useful as MMP-13 inhibitors Disclosed are compounds and compositions of the formula I as described herein which are inhibitors of MMP-13. Also disclosed are methods of using and making compounds of the formula I.
US08338366B2	Bioactive FUS1 peptides and nanoparticle-polypeptide complexes A nanoparticle-polypeptide complex comprising a bioactive polypeptide in association with a nanoparticle, wherein the bioactive polypeptide is modified by the addition of a chemical moiety that facilitates cellular uptake of the protein. The polypeptide can be a protein or a peptide. In some embodiments, the amino acid sequence of the protein or peptide is derived from the amino acid sequence of a tumor suppressor gene product.
US08338364B2	Peptide tyrosinase inhibitors and uses thereof Disclosed are peptides which inhibit the enzymatic activity of tyrosinase as well as formulations and methods for their use in the reduction of skin pigmentation, and methods of administering the inhibitory peptides in a topical formulation. Methods of skin treatment are also provided, the methods further including use of a peptide characterized by the amino acid sequence SFLLRN (SEQ ID NO: 1).
US08338363B2	Pharmaceutical compositions comprising casein derived peptides and methods of use thereof The present invention relates to peptides derived from casein and their use in the management of lactating animals, particularly to methods for decreasing the length of the dry period of a lactating livestock animal, for increasing its milk yield and milk hygiene after parturition and for improving the livestock welfare. The present invention further relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising peptides derived from casein in the form of a sterile solution, which compositions are clear and substantially devoid of micelles.
US08338360B2	Fabric conditioning fabric care articles comprising a particulate lubricant agent A fabric conditioning articles containing a particulate lubricant agent comprising a platelet which is optionally hexagonal in shape, said platelet optionally having a planar aspect ratio of particle size to thickness of from about 50 to about 300. Non-limiting examples of suitable particulate lubricant agents can include materials such as a boron nitride, a tungsten disulfide, a molybdenum disulfide, a polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE), a talc, a calcium fluoride, a cerium fluoride and a tungsten disulfide, and a mixture thereof.
US08338359B2	Dryer bar having void volumes Dryer bars having certain defined void volumes.
US08338354B2	Manual spray cleaner and protectants A manual spray cleaner for removing dirt and stains from fabrics and carpets comprising a spray bottle having two separate chambers and a single dispensing spray outlet for dispensing controlled amounts of liquids from each of the chambers. One of the chambers has a fabric/carpet cleaning composition therein and the other chamber has an oxidizing composition that enhances the cleanability of the fabric/carpet cleaning composition. The fabric/carpet cleaning composition and the oxidizing composition are simultaneously drawn from their respective chambers and mixed together at the time that they are dispensed from the spray bottle. At least one of the oxidizing composition and the fabric/carpet cleaning composition includes a fabric/carpet protectant. The two compositions are mixed before or after they are sprayed from the bottle. The two compositions can be pressurized with an aerosol propellant or drawn from their respective chambers by a mechanical pump.
US08338353B2	Hard surface cleaner containing polysulfonic acid The invention is directed toward improved aqueous hard surface cleaning compositions which include one or more polysulfonic acids The inclusion of one or more polysulfonic acids in a hard surface composition provides for improved removal of insoluble salt deposits resulting from hard water In an embodiment, the invention utilizes a foaming agent fragrance and a thickening agent.
US08338350B2	Gluconic acid containing photoresist cleaning composition for multi-metal device processing A microelectronic photoresist cleaning composition suitable for cleaning multi-metal microelectronic devices and to do so without any substantial or significant galvanic corrosion occurring when there is a subsequent rinsing step employing water.
US08338347B2	System for reducing bacteria on unprocessed food surfaces while extending shelf life A system for substantially reducing surface contaminants of a food substance comprising a substantially transparent and odorless solution made from a plurality of substantially organic compounds selected from: citric acid, sodium citrate, vegetable glycerin, sea salt, potassium sorbate, decyl glucoside, calcium ascorbate, grapefruit seed extract, and sodium bisulfite, and an applicator for applying the solution to the food substance. The solution ratio of organic compounds is approximately: 2% citric acid, 2% sodium citrate, 0.2% vegetable glycerin, 0.2% potassium sorbate; 0% to 0.4% decyl glucoside, 0% to 0.2% calcium ascorbate, 0% to 0.2% grapefruit seed extract, 0% to 0.1% sodium bisulfite, and 0.2% to 2% sea salt.
US08338344B2	Cold flow improver The invention relates to the use of polymers which comprise, in copolymerized form, an α-olefin, at least one alkenyl ester and at least one ester of an α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acid with higher alcohols as an additive for fuel oils and lubricants and especially as a cold flow improver in fuel oils; to the fuel oils and lubricants additized with these polymers; and to additive packages comprising such copolymers. The invention also relates to quaternary and higher copolymers which comprise the abovementioned monomers in copolymerized form.
US08338343B2	Additive composition comprising an amidized or imidized polymer The invention relates to a process for an additive composition comprising an amidized or imidized polymer. The invention further relates to a highly grafted, multi-functional lubricant additive useful to improve the viscosity index and dispersancy properties of a lubricating oil composition. The present invention also relates to a method of extending lubricant drain intervals and improving fuel economy and fuel economy durability. The additive composition is prepared by: (A) reacting an olefin copolymer of ethylene and at least one C3 to C23 &agr; -olefin comprising from about 15 to 80 mole percent of ethylene, from about 20 to 85 mole percent of said C3 to C23 &agr; -olefin and from about 0 to 15 wt percent of a polyene, said copolymer having a number average molecular weight ranging from 1,000 to 500,000, with an olefinic carboxylic acid acylating agent, said process comprising heating said polymer to a molten condition at a temperature in the range of 60° C. to 240° C., grafting, in a first extruder or a first mixing device, said olefinic carboxylic acylating agent onto said copolymer, optionally subsequently reducing the molecular weight of said copolymer at a temperature in the range of 250° C. to 350° C., thereby producing a grafted, reduced molecular weight acylated copolymer having a number average molecular weight ranging from 1,000 to 80,000 and having at least 0.2-20 molecules of said carboxylic acid acylating agent grafted per 1000 C atoms of said olefin copolymer, and (B) reacting, in a second extruder or a second mixing device, said acylated copolymer made in (A) with a polyamine.
US08338340B2	Drilling fluid and methods A drilling fluid comprising: a non-ionic surfactant including at least one of a branched alcohol ethoxylate and a capped alcohol ethoxylate, a detergent builder and a viscosifier.
US08338336B2	Synergistic herbicidal composition containing penoxsulam and oxyfluorfen Penoxsulam and oxyfluorfen synergistically control weeds in crops, especially perennial tree and vine crops, rice, cereal and grain crops, pastures, rangelands, IVM and turf. Such compositions provide improved pre-emergence residual and post-emergence burndown with residual herbicidal weed control.
US08338334B2	Synergistic herbicidal composition containing fluroxypyr and quinclorac An herbicidal synergistic mixture of fluroxypyr and quinclorac provides improved post-emergence weed control in rice, cereal and grain crops, pastures, rangelands, IVM and turf.
US08338332B1	Herbicidal composition for tolerant or resistant cotton crops Herbicide combinations (A)+(B), if appropriate in the presence of safeners, with an effective content of (A) broad-spectrum herbicides from the group (A1) glufosinate (salts) and related compounds (A2) glyphosate (salts) and related compounds such as sulfosate, (A3) imidazolinones such as imazethapyr, imazapyr, imazaquin, imazamox or their salts and (A4) herbicidal azoles from the group of the protoporphyrinogen oxidase inhibitors (PPO inhibitors) and (A5) the hydroxybenzonitriles and (B) herbicides from the group consisting of (B0) one or more structurally different herbicides from the abovementioned group (A), (B1) foliar- and soil-acting herbicides which are effective against monocotyledonous and dicotyledonous harmful plants, (B2) predominantly foliar-acting herbicides which are effective against dicotyledonous harmful plants, (B3) predominantly foliar-acting herbicides which are effective against monocotyledonous harmful plants, and (B4) foliar- and soil-acting herbicides which are effective against predominantly monocotyledonous harmful plants are suitable for controlling harmful plants in cotton which consists of tolerant or resistant mutants or transgenic cotton plants.
US08338329B2	Fluid filtration medium The present application relates to improved filtration of fluids. Particularly, a surfactant-treated zeolite material may be utilized for removing turbid particles from a volume of fluid, such as water.
US08338327B2	Process for production of allyl acetate production catalyst An allyl acetate production catalyst comprising at least (a) palladium, (b) gold, (c) a compound containing at least one element selected from copper, nickel, zinc and cobalt, (d) an alkali metal salt compound and (e) a carrier, is produced by a process comprising step 1 in which a homogeneous solution of a palladium-containing compound and a gold-containing compound is supported on a carrier by contact therewith, step 2 in which the carrier obtained in step 1 is contacted with an alkali solution for impregnation, step 3 in which the carrier obtained in step 2 is subjected to reduction treatment, and step 4 in which a compound containing at least one element selected from copper, nickel, zinc and cobalt and an alkali metal salt compound are supported onto the carrier obtained in step 3. The obtained allyl acetate production catalyst has minimal reduction in activity and improved selectivity, when used for production of allyl acetate from propylene, oxygen and acetic acid.
US08338323B2	Electrode for electrochemical reaction and production process thereof The present invention provides a process for producing an electrode for electrochemical reaction, wherein a conductive diamond layer is formed on an electrode substrate in the electrode; and the electrode substrate on which the conductive diamond layer is formed is kept at a temperature of 400° C. or more and 1,000° C. or less in a water vapor, thereby forming a micropore in the conductive diamond layer. Also, the present invention provides an electrode for electrochemical reaction obtained by the foregoing production process.
US08338320B2	Optical glass, preform for precision press-molding, optical element, methods for manufacturing thereof, and imaging device An optical Glass characterized by comprising, denoted as molar percentages: B2O5—5 to 45 percent; SiO2—0 to 6 percent (excluding 6 percent); Li2O, Na2O, K2O in total—0 to 3 percent; ZnO—10 to 40 percent; La2O3—5 to 30 percent; Gd2O3—1 to 20 percent; and ZrO2, TaO2, TiO2, Nb2O5, WO3, and Bi2O3 in total—2.5 to 20 percent. The cation ratio of the Ti4+ content relative to the total content of Zr4+, Ta5+, Ti4+, Nb5+, W6+, and Bi3+ is 0.30 or lower; in that the temperature Tp at which a viscosity of 107.2 dPa·s is exhibited is 706° C. or lower. The refractive index nd and the Abbé number v(nu)d satisfy all of the following relations (I) to (IV): 34.0≦vd<40 (I); nd≧1.87 (II); nd≧2.245−0.01×vd (III) and nd≦2.28−0.01×vd (IV).
US08338318B2	Glass ceramic armor material Antiballistic armor is provided that includes a glass-ceramic component having 50 to 70 weight percent SiO2, 15 to 25 weight percent Al2O3, 0.5 to 5 weight percent ZrO2, 0.1 to 10 weight percent Li2O, 1 to 5 weight percent TiO2. The glass ceramic component has a main crystalline phase that comprises keatite mixed crystal in a compositional range of LiAlSi2O6 to LiAlSi4O10.
US08338312B2	Film formation method, film formation apparatus, and method for using film formation apparatus A film formation method includes a film formation process for forming an SiO2 film on a surface of a target object inside a process container by use of an Si source gas and an oxidizing agent, and an oxidation purge process for performing oxidation on films deposited inside the process container while exhausting gas from inside the process container after unloading the target object from the process container, wherein the film formation process and the oxidation purge process are alternately repeated a plurality of times without, interposed therebetween, a process for removing the films deposited inside the process container.
US08338311B2	Method for the production of structured layers of titanium and nickel A method for the production of a structured metal layer (7) made from an alloy composed of titanium and nickel includes the following process steps: a sacrificial layer composite (3) is provided, which comprises a second sacrificial layer (2) applied onto a first sacrificial layer (1), the first sacrificial layer (1) is subjected for the purpose of structuring to a wet-chemical etching process in such a manner that undercutting of the sacrificial layer (1) occurs, a metal layer (7) of the alloy is applied indirectly or directly to the structured sacrificial layer composite (3). The first sacrificial layer (1) is at a greater distance from the metal layer (7). The second sacrificial layer (2) facing the metal layer (7) to be deposited is subjected to a dry etching process prior to wet-chemical etching of the first sacrificial layer (1) so that the second sacrificial layer (2) is provided with a structure that corresponds to the desired structure of the metal layer (7). The invention further relates to an object, particularly a stent or an implant, which comprises at least one metal layer (7) that is produced by applying the method for the production of the structured metal layer (7).
US08338309B2	Method for forming deep trench in semiconductor device A method for forming a deep trench in a semiconductor device includes: forming a hard mask over a substrate, forming a hard mask pattern over the substrate through etching the hard mask to thereby expose an upper portion of the substrate, forming a first trench through a first etching the exposed substrate using a gas containing bromide and a gas containing chloride and forming a second trench through a second etching the first trench using of a gas containing sulfur and fluorine, wherein a depth of the second trench is deeper than a depth of the first trench.
US08338307B2	Substrate plasma treatment using magnetic mask device Plasma treatment apparatus and method for treatment of a surface of a substrate. A dielectric barrier discharge electrode structure is provided having a treatment space (5) and comprising a first electrode (2) and a second electrode (3), and a power supply (11) connected to the first electrode (2) and the second electrode (3) for generating an atmospheric pressure plasma in the treatment space (5). The plasma treatment apparatus further comprises a magnetic layer (6) provided on a surface of at least the first electrode (2). The first electrode (2) is arranged to receive, in operation, the substrate (1) to be treated and a mask device (7) in contact with the substrate (1), the mask device (7) interacting with the magnetic layer (6).
US08338305B2	Multi-fin device by self-aligned castle fin formation The present disclosure provides a method includes forming a multi-fin device. The method includes forming a patterned mask layer on a semiconductor substrate. The patterned mask layer includes a first opening having a first width W1 and a second opening having a second width W2 less than the first width. The patterned mask layer defines a multi-fin device region and an inter-device region, wherein the inter-device region is aligned with the first opening; and the multi-fin device region includes at least one intra-device region being aligned with the second opening. The method further includes forming a material layer on the semiconductor substrate and the patterned mask layer, wherein the material layer substantially fills in the second opening; performing a first etching process self-aligned to remove the material layer within the first opening such that the semiconductor substrate within the first opening is exposed; performing a second etching process to etch the semiconductor substrate within the first opening, forming a first trench in the inter-device region; and thereafter performing a third etching process to remove the material layer in the second opening.
US08338302B2	Method for polishing a semiconductor wafer with a strained-relaxed Si1−xGex layer Semiconductor wafer provided with a strain-relaxed layer of Si1-xGex, are polished in a first step of mechanical machining of the Si1-xGex layer of the semiconductor wafer in a polishing machine using a polishing pad containing fixedly bonded abrasive materials having a particle size of 0.55 μm or less, and also a second step of a chemomechanical machining of the previously mechanically machined Si1-xGex layer of the semiconductor wafer using a polishing pad and with supply of a polishing agent slurry containing abrasive materials.
US08338297B2	Selective metal deposition over dielectric layers Selective deposition of metal over dielectric layers in a manner that minimizes of eliminates keyhole formation is provided. According to one embodiment, a dielectric target layer is formed over a substrate layer, wherein the target layer may be configured as allow conformal metal deposition, and a dielectric second layer is formed over the target layer, wherein the second layer may be configured to allow bottom-up metal deposition. An opening may then be formed in the second layer and metal may be selectively deposited over substrate layer.
US08338293B2	Method of reducing erosion of a metal cap layer during via patterning in semiconductor devices During the patterning of via openings in sophisticated metallization systems of semiconductor devices, the opening may extend through a conductive cap layer and an appropriate ion bombardment may be established to redistribute material of the underlying metal region to exposed sidewall portions of the conductive cap layer, thereby establishing a protective material. Consequently, in a subsequent wet chemical etch process, the probability for undue material removal of the conductive cap layer may be greatly reduced.
US08338290B2	Method for fabricating semiconductor device A method for fabricating a semiconductor device includes: (a) forming an interlayer insulating film on a substrate; (b) forming an interconnect in the interlayer insulating film; (c) applying an organic solution to an upper surface of the interconnect and an upper surface of the interlayer insulating film; (d) after (c), applying a silylating solution to the upper surface of the interconnect and the upper surface of the interlayer insulating film; (e) after (d), heating the substrate; and (f) forming a first liner insulating film at least on the upper surface of the interconnect.
US08338288B2	Method of manufacturing semiconductor device In connection with a semiconductor device in which a conductive member is coupled to the surface of a bonding pad exposed from an opening formed in a passivation film, there is provided a technique able to suppress the occurrence of a crack in the passivation film. A second planar distance between a first end of an electrode layer and a first end of a pad is greater than a first planar distance between the first end of the electrode layer and a first end of an opening. Since the second planar distance between the first end of the electrode layer and the first end of the pad is long, even when a coupled position of wire is deviated to the first end side of the electrode layer, stress caused by coupling of the wire to a stepped portion of the electrode layer can be prevented from being transmitted to the first end portion of the pad.
US08338287B2	Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same In one embodiment, a preliminary solder layer made of a Sn alloy is formed on a connecting pad of a wiring substrate. A solder bump made of a Sn alloy is formed on an electrode pad of a semiconductor chip. After contacting the preliminary solder layer and the solder bump, the preliminary solder layer and the solder bump are melted by heating to a temperature of their melting points or higher to form a solder connecting part made of a Sn alloy containing Ag and Cu. Only the preliminary solder layer of the preliminary solder layer and the solder bump is composed of a Sn alloy containing Ag.
US08338284B2	Stress engineering in a contact level of semiconductor devices by stressed conductive layers and an isolation spacer In sophisticated semiconductor devices, strain-inducing materials having a reduced dielectric strength or having certain conductivity, such as metal nitride and the like, may be used in the contact level in order to enhance performance of circuit elements, such as field effect transistors. For this purpose, a strain-inducing material may be efficiently encapsulated on the basis of a dielectric layer stack that may be patterned prior to forming the actual interlayer dielectric material in order to mask sidewall surface areas on the basis of spacer elements.
US08338283B1	Method and apparatus for applying thin liquid coatings Systems and methods for applying a thin layer of a liquid to the surface of a wafer with topography formed therein. The systems and methods include spreading a deposit of the liquid into a thin film on a wafer support, lowering the wafer onto the film, removing the wafer with an adhering layer of the film, positioning the wafer over a device wafer with the liquid film disposed between the wafers, curing the thin layer. The thin layer may be a UV adhesive which bonds the wafers upon exposure to UV light.
US08338282B2	Method for encapsulating a microcomponent using a mechanically reinforced cap A method for encapsulating a micro component positioned on and/or in a substrate, including: depositing at least one sacrificial material covering the micro component, making a cap covering the sacrificial material, removing the sacrificial material via at least one opening formed through the cap and forming a cavity in which the micro component is positioned, depositing, at least on the cap, at least one layer of plugging material that plugs the at least one opening, and performing a localized deposition of at least one portion of mechanically reinforcing material of the cap, covering at least the cap, wherein the mechanically reinforcing material is not subsequently etched.
US08338280B2	Method for fabricating nano devices Embodiments relate to a method for fabricating nano-wires in nano-devices, and more particularly to nano-device fabrication using end-of-range (EOR) defects. In one embodiment, a substrate with a surface crystalline layer over the substrate is provided and EOR defects are created in the surface crystalline layer. One or more fins with EOR defects embedded within is formed and oxidized to form one or more fully oxidized nano-wires with nano-crystals within the core of the nano-wire.
US08338276B2	Manufacturing method for a nanocrystal based device covered with a layer of nitride deposited by CVD The present invention relates to methods of manufacturing a structure having semi-conductor material nanocrystals on a dielectric material substrate by chemical vapour deposition (CVD), the method including at least: i) contacting a surface of a dielectric layer present on a substrate with a first gaseous precursor, by CVD, to form nanocrystal nuclei on the surface of a the dielectric layer; ii) contacting the nanocrystal nuclei with a second gaseous precursor, by CVD, to selectively deposit nanocrystal semi-conductor material only on the nuclei and to grow nanocrystals on the nuclei, each nanocrystal having an exposed surface; and iii) forming a nitride layer only on the exposed surface of each nanocrystal by contacting the nanocrystals with a mixture including at least the second gaseous precursor and a third gaseous precursor to terminate the growth of said nanocrystals and to selectively and stoichiometrically deposit the nitride layer on the exposed surface, wherein a material of said nanocrystal nuclei is compatible with a material of said dielectric layer, each of i), ii) and iii) are carried out in a same chamber, and the first gaseous precursor, the second gaseous precursor and the mixture of the second gaseous precursor with the third gaseous precursor are introduced into the chamber in a continuous flow.
US08338270B2	Method for manufacturing SOI substrate and semiconductor device First etching is performed on a surface of a single crystal semiconductor layer formed with no substrate bias applied. The single crystal semiconductor layer is formed by attaching a single crystal semiconductor substrate including an embrittled region to a supporting substrate so that an oxide layer is sandwiched between the single crystal semiconductor substrate and the supporting substrate and separating the single crystal semiconductor substrate into the single crystal semiconductor layer and part of the single crystal semiconductor substrate at the embrittled region. After the first etching, the single crystal semiconductor layer is irradiated with a laser beam and at least part of the surface of the single crystal semiconductor layer is melted and solidified. Then, second etching is performed on the surface of the single crystal semiconductor layer with no substrate bias applied.
US08338267B2	Systems and methods for vertically integrating semiconductor devices Systems and methods for vertically integrating semiconductor devices are described. In one embodiment, a method comprises providing an interposer, aligning and bonding a plurality of die to a first surface of the interposer, aligning and bonding a backplate to the plurality of die, and reducing at least one portion of the interposer to create a reconstituted wafer. In another embodiment, an apparatus comprises an interposer operable to receive at least one donor semiconductor device disposed on a first surface of the interposer and aligned therewith, and at least one host semiconductor device disposed on a second surface of the interposer and aligned therewith; where the interposer allows the at least one donor and host semiconductor devices to become vertically integrated.
US08338266B2	Method for molecular adhesion bonding at low pressure The present invention relates to a method for molecular adhesion bonding between at least a first wafer and a second wafer involving aligning the first and second wafers, placing the first and second wafers in an environment having a first pressure (P1) greater than a predetermined threshold pressure; bringing the first wafer and the second wafer into alignment and contact; and initiating the propagation of a bonding wave between the first and second wafer after the wafers are aligned and in contact by reducing the pressure within the environment to a second pressure (P2) below the threshold pressure. The invention also relates to the three-dimensional composite structure that is obtained by the described method of adhesion bonding.
US08338264B2	Methods for forming isolation structures for semiconductor devices A shallow isolation trench structure and methods of forming the same wherein the method of formation comprises a layered structure of a buffer film layer over a dielectric layer that is atop a semiconductor substrate. The buffer film layer comprises a material that is oxidation resistant and can be etched selectively to oxide films. The layered structure is patterned with a resist material and etched to form a shallow trench. A thin oxide layer is formed in the trench and the buffer film layer is selectively etched to move the buffer film layer back from the corners of the trench. An isolation material is then used to fill the shallow trench and the buffer film layer is stripped to form an isolation structure. When the structure is etched by subsequent processing step(s), a capped shallow trench isolation structure that covers the shallow trench corners is created.
US08338260B2	Raised source/drain structure for enhanced strain coupling from stress liner A transistor is provided that includes a buried oxide layer above a substrate. A silicon layer is above the buried oxide layer. A gate stack is on the silicon layer, the gate stack including a high-k oxide layer on the silicon layer and a metal gate on the high-k oxide layer. A nitride liner is adjacent to the gate stack. An oxide liner is adjacent to the nitride liner. A set of faceted raised source/drain regions having a part including a portion of the silicon layer. The set of faceted raised source/drain regions also include a first faceted side portion and a second faceted side portion.
US08338258B2	Embedded stressor for semiconductor structures A method of fabricating an embedded stressor within a semiconductor structure and a semiconductor structure including the embedded stressor includes forming forming a dummy gate stack over a substrate of stressor material, anistropically etching sidewall portions of the substrate subjacent to the dummy gate stack to form the embedded stressor having angled sidewall portions, forming conductive material onto the angled sidewall portions of the embedded stressor, removing the dummy gate stack, planarizing the conductive material, and forming a gate stack on the conductive material.
US08338257B2	Nonvolatile semiconductor storage device and manufacturing method thereof An object of the present invention is to provide a nonvolatile semiconductor storage device with a superior charge holding characteristic in which highly-efficient writing is possible at low voltage, and to provide a manufacturing method thereof.The nonvolatile semiconductor storage device includes a semiconductor film having a pair of impurity regions formed apart from each other and a channel formation region provided between the impurity regions; and a first insulating film, a charge accumulating layer, a second insulating film, and a conductive film functioning as a gate electrode layer which are provided over the channel formation region. In the nonvolatile semiconductor storage device, a second barrier formed by the first insulating film against a charge of the charge accumulating layer is higher in energy than a first barrier formed by the first insulating film against a charge of the semiconductor film.
US08338250B2	Process for fabricating memory device A memory device is described, including a substrate, data storage structures over the substrate, control gates over the data storage structures, and a dielectric layer between the data storage structures and the control gates, wherein each data storage structure includes a lower part and an upper part narrower than the lower part. A process for fabricating the memory device is also described, wherein formation of the data storage structures includes recessing portions of a data storage layer to form respective upper parts of the data storage structures and then dividing the recessed portions of the data storage layer to form respective lower parts of the data storage structures.
US08338249B2	Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same having improved polarization reversal characteristic A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device comprises: forming a lower electrode on a semiconductor substrate, sputtering a ferroelectric film on the lower electrode using a target, thermal treating the ferroelectric film in an atmosphere containing oxygen in accordance with an accumulated period of use of the target for fabricating the ferroelectric film, and forming an upper electrode on the ferroelectric film.
US08338248B2	Semiconductor element and solid-state imaging device A semiconductor element includes: a p-type semiconductor region; an n-type light-receiving surface buried region buried in the semiconductor region; an n-type charge accumulation region buried in the semiconductor region, continuously to the light-receiving surface buried region, establishing a deeper potential well depth than the light-receiving surface buried region; a charge read-out region configured to read out the charges accumulated in the charge accumulation region; an exhaust-drain region buried in the semiconductor region, configured to extract the charges from the light-receiving surface buried region; a first potential controller configured to extract the charges from the light-receiving surface buried region to the exhaust-drain region; and a second potential controller configured to transfer the charges from the charge accumulation region to the charge read-out region.
US08338244B2	Methods of fabricating three-dimensional nonvolatile memory devices using expansions Provided are three-dimensional nonvolatile memory devices and methods of fabricating the same. The memory devices include semiconductor pillars penetrating interlayer insulating layers and conductive layers alternately stacked on a substrate and electrically connected to the substrate and floating gates selectively interposed between the semiconductor pillars and the conductive layers. The floating gates are formed in recesses in the conductive layers.
US08338242B2	Backside bevel protection The disclosure provides methods and structures for preventing exposing polysilicon layer and silicon substrate on the substrate backside to polysilicon etching chemistry during removal of the dummy polysilicon layer in replacement gate structures. A thermal deposition process or processes are used to deposit a dielectric layer for offset spacers and/or a contact etch stop layer (CESL) to cover the polysilicon layer on the substrate backside. Such mechanisms reduce or eliminate particles originated at bevel of substrate backside, due to complete removal of the polysilicon layer at the backside bevel and the resultant etching of silicon substrate.
US08338241B2	Method of manufacturing high frequency device structure Provided are a method of manufacturing a normally-off mode high frequency device structure and a method of simultaneously manufacturing a normally-on mode high frequency device structure and a normally-off mode high frequency device structure on a single substrate.
US08338240B2	Method for manufacturing transistor To provide a method for manufacturing a transistor which has little variation in characteristics and favorable electric characteristics. A gate insulating film is formed over a gate electrode; a semiconductor layer including a microcrystalline semiconductor is formed over the gate insulating film; an impurity semiconductor layer is formed over the semiconductor layer; a mask is formed over the impurity semiconductor layer, and then the semiconductor layer and the impurity semiconductor layer are etched with use of the mask to form a semiconductor stacked body; the mask is removed and then the semiconductor stacked body is exposed to plasma generated in an atmosphere containing a rare gas to form a barrier region on a side surface of the semiconductor stacked body; and a wiring over the impurity semiconductor layer of the semiconductor stacked body is formed.
US08338238B2	Manufacturing method of semiconductor device After forming a semiconductor film over a substrate, a Ni film is deposited over the semiconductor film while heating the substrate, thereby forming Ni silicide on the semiconductor film. Alternatively, after forming a semiconductor film over a substrate, a Ni film is deposited over the semiconductor film while heating the substrate up to 450° C. or higher, thereby forming Ni silicide on the semiconductor film. Alternatively, after forming a semiconductor film over a substrate, a Ni film is deposited with a thickness of 10 nm or more over the semiconductor film while heating the substrate to 450° C. or higher, thereby forming Ni silicide on the semiconductor film. Alternatively, after forming a semiconductor film over a substrate, and removing an oxide film on the semiconductor film, a Ni film is deposited over the semiconductor film while heating the substrate up to 450° C. or higher, thereby forming Ni silicide on the semiconductor film.
US08338236B1	Vented substrate for semiconductor device A substrate with a vent for a semiconductor device where the vent is integrated within the substrate itself. The integrated air vent forms a passageway or relief path for gas or air within a mold cavity to escape during a transfer molding packaging process. The vents integrated in the substrate reduce trapped gas and mold voids and limit vent flash to improve yield.
US08338233B2	Method of manufacture of integrated circuit packaging system with stacked integrated circuit A method of manufacture of an integrated circuit packaging system includes: forming a base lead having an outer protrusion and an inner protrusion with a recess in between; forming a stack lead having an elongated portion; mounting a base integrated circuit over the inner protrusion or under the elongated portion; mounting the stack lead over the base lead and the base integrated circuit; connecting a stack integrated circuit and the stack lead with the stack integrated circuit over the base integrated circuit; and encapsulating at least a portion of both the base integrated circuit and the stack integrated circuit with the base lead and the stack lead exposed.
US08338231B2	Encapsulated semiconductor chip with external contact pads and manufacturing method thereof A method includes providing a carrier; applying a dielectric layer to the carrier; applying a metal layer to the dielectric layer; placing a first semiconductor chip on the metal layer with contact pads of the first semiconductor chip facing the metal layer; covering the first semiconductor chip with an encapsulation material; and removing the carrier.
US08338229B1	Stackable plasma cleaned via package and method A method of forming a stackable plasma cleaned via package includes forming interconnection balls on terminals. The interconnection balls are encapsulated in a package body, e.g., molding compound. Via apertures are formed through the package body to expose the interconnection balls, wherein a contamination is formed on the interconnection balls. The contamination is removed using a plasma cleaning process. By removing the contamination, robust reflow of the interconnection balls is insured thus maximizing yield. Further, the plasma cleaning process is a cost efficient high volume process with no adverse effect on package reliability.
US08338226B2	Method for manufacturing semiconductor device An object is to provide a thin film transistor including an oxide semiconductor layer, in which the contact resistance between the oxide semiconductor layer and source and drain electrode layers is reduced and whose electric characteristics are stabilized. Another object is to provide a method for manufacturing the thin film transistor. The thin film transistor including an oxide semiconductor layer is formed in such a manner that buffer layers whose conductivity is higher than that of the oxide semiconductor layer are formed and the oxide semiconductor layer and the source and drain electrode layers are electrically connected to each other through the buffer layers. In addition, the buffer layers whose conductivity is higher than that of the oxide semiconductor layer are subjected to reverse sputtering treatment and heat treatment in a nitrogen atmosphere.
US08338225B2	Method to reduce a via area in a phase change memory cell A memory cell structure and method to form such structure. The method partially comprised of forming a via within an oxidizing layer, over the center of a bottom electrode. The method includes depositing a via spacer along the sidewalls of the via and oxidizing the via spacer. The via spacer being comprised of a material having a Pilling-Bedworth ratio of at least one and one-half and is an insulator when oxidized. The via area is reduced by expansion of the via spacer during the oxidation. Alternatively, the method is partially comprised of forming a via within a first layer, over the center of the bottom electrode. The first layer has a Pilling-Bedworth ratio of at least one and one-half and is an insulator when oxidized. The method also includes oxidizing at least a portion of the sidewalls of the via in the first layer.
US08338224B2	Resistance-type random access memory device having three-dimensional bit line and word line patterning Provided is a resistance random access memory device and a method of fabricating, the same. The method includes forming a bit-line stack in which a plurality of local bit-lines are vertically stacked on a substrate, forming a word-line including a plurality of local word-lines that extend in a vertical direction toward a side of the bit-line stack and a connection line that extends in a horizontal direction to connect the plurality of local word-lines with one another, and forming a resistance memory thin film between the bit-line stack and the word-line. The present inventive concept can realize a highly dense memory array with 3D cross-point architecture by simplified processes.
US08338222B2	Method of fabricating organic light emitting display A method of fabricating an organic light emitting display is capable of improving device characteristics by patterning a plurality of organic layers of an emission layer and a charge transport layer using a thermal transfer method to optimize thicknesses of the organic layers corresponding to R, G and B pixels. The method includes: forming lower electrodes of R, G and B pixels on a substrate; forming an organic layer on the layer; and forming an upper electrode on the organic layer. Formation of the organic layer includes forming a portion of a hole injection layer and a hole transport layer of the R, G and B pixels over an entire surface of the substrate, the organic layer comprising a first portion and a second portion, the organic layer having a thickness equal to a sum of the thicknesses of the hole injection layer and the hole transport layer. Formation of the organic layer further comprises patterning the second portion of the organic layer, and patterning emission layers of the R, G and B pixels. The second portion of the organic layer and the emission layers of the R, G and B pixels are simultaneously formed by a thermal transfer method using a thermal transfer device having the second portion of the organic layer and the emission layers of the R, G and B pixels as a transfer layer.
US08338221B2	Method for manufacturing thin film type solar cell A method for manufacturing a thin film type solar cell is disclosed, which is capable of reducing degradation of solar cell by decreasing the number of dangling bonding sites or SiH2 bonding sites existing in amorphous silicon owing to an optimal content ratio of ingredient gases, an optimal chamber pressure, or an optimal substrate temperature during a process for depositing an I-type semiconductor layer of amorphous silicon by a plasma CVD method, the method comprising forming a front electrode layer on a substrate; sequentially depositing P-type, I-type, and N-type semiconductor layers on the front electrode layer; and forming a rear electrode layer on the N-type semiconductor layer, wherein the process for forming the I-type semiconductor layer comprises forming an amorphous silicon layer by the plasma CVD method under such circumstances that at least one of the aforementioned conditions is satisfied, for example, a content ratio of silicon-containing gas to hydrogen-containing gas is within a range between 1:7 and 1:10; a chamber pressure is maintained at a range between 2.0 Torr and 2.4 Torr; and a substrate temperature is maintained at a range between 225° C. and 250° C.
US08338219B2	Multiplexed output two terminal photodiode array for imaging applications and related fabrication process A detector array for an imaging system may exploit the different sensitivities of array pixels to an incident flux of low energy photons with a wavelength falling near the high end of the range of sensitivity of the semiconductor. The detector array may provide the de-multiplexable spatial information. The detector array may include a two-terminal multi-pixel array of Schottky photodiodes electrically connected in parallel.
US08338216B2	Program for controlling laser apparatus and recording medium for recording program for controlling laser apparatus and capable of being read out by computer The object of the present invention is to solve problems of treatment time when using an SLS method or continuous-oscillation laser. An indispensable portion is scanned with a laser beam in order to crystallize a semiconductor film by driving a laser and so on in accordance with the positions of islands instead of scanning and irradiating the whole semiconductor film. The present invention makes it possible to omit the time for irradiating a portion to be removed through patterning after crystallizing the semiconductor film with a laser beam and greatly shorten the treatment time for one substrate.
US08338213B2	Method for manufacturing solar cell A method for manufacturing a solar cell includes forming an impurity doped region of a second conductive type at a substrate of a first conductive type, sequentially irradiating laser shots onto the impurity doped region of the substrate to form an emitter part including a first emitter region having a first sheet resistance and a second emitter region having a second sheet resistance less than the first sheet resistance, and forming a plurality of first electrodes connected to the second emitter region and forming a second electrode connected to the substrate.
US08338210B2	Method for processing solar cell substrates A method for processing solar cells comprising: providing a vertical furnace to receive an array of mutually spaced circular semiconductor wafers for integrated circuit processing; composing a process chamber loading configuration for solar cell substrates, wherein a size of the solar cell substrates that extends along a first surface to be processed is smaller than a corresponding size of the circular semiconductor wafers, such that multiple arrays of mutually spaced solar cell substrates can be accommodated in the process chamber, loading the solar cell substrates into the process chamber; subjecting the solar cell substrates to a process in the process chamber.
US08338205B2	Method of fabricating and encapsulating MEMS devices A method of fabricating and encapsulating MEMS devices is disclosed, using least two carbon films as the dual sacrificial layers sandwiching a MEMS structural film which is anchored onto a substrate and covered by an encapsulating film containing a plurality of thru-film sacrificial release holes. The dual sacrificial carbon films are selectively removed via plasma-enhanced oxygen or nitrogen ashing through the thru-film sacrificial release holes for releasing the MEMS structural film inside a cavity formed between the encapsulating film and the substrate. The thru-film sacrificial release holes, preferably with a relative high asperity ratio, are then sealed off by depositing a hole-sealing film in a physical vapor deposition process or a chemical vapor deposition process or combination.
US08338203B2	Method for forming compound semiconductor light-emitting device A compound semiconductor light-emitting device has a light-emitting layer, on a substrate, wherein at least a part of a substrate portion of the device side surface has recessed portions in a side direction of the device. A method of producing the compound semiconductor light-emitting device includes the steps of: (a) forming a compound semiconductor layer including a light-emitting layer of an n-type or p-type compound semiconductor on a wafer that serves as a substrate, (b) arranging a negative electrode and a positive electrode at predetermined positions for passing a drive current through the light-emitting layer, (c) forming a separation zone for separating the individual light-emitting devices, (d) perforating many small holes linearly in the wafer that serves as the substrate along the separation zone, and (e) dividing the wafer into individual light-emitting devices along the separation zone, whereby a rugged shape which is periodical in a side direction and is undulating in a plane or cross section, is formed on a substrate side surface of the light-emitting device.
US08338202B2	Method for manufacturing semiconductor device using separable support body In a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, a first conductivity type semiconductor layer and a second conductivity type semiconductor layer are sequentially grown on a growth substrate. Then, an electrode layer is formed on the second conductivity type semiconductor layer. Then, a support body is adhered to the electrode layer by providing at least one adhesive layer therebetween. Finally, at least a part of the growth substrate is removed. In this case, the adhesive layer is removable from the electrode layer.
US08338194B2	Method for the in-situ determination of the material composition of optically thin layers A method for in situ determination of a material composition of optically thin layers deposited from a vapor phase onto a substrate includes irradiating the substrate with incoherent light of at least three different wavelengths, optically detecting in a spatially resolved manner a reflection intensity of a diffuse or a direct light scattering emanating from a deposited layer outside of a total reflection, concurrently providing numerical values of the detected reflection intensity to an optical layer model based on general line transmission theory, ascertaining values for the optical layer parameters of the deposited layer from the optical layer model for the at least three different wavelengths by numerically adapting the optical layer model to a time characteristic of the detected reflection intensities, and quantitatively determining a material composition of the deposited layer from the ascertained values by comparing the ascertained values to standard values.
US08338192B2	High precision semiconductor chip and a method to construct the semiconductor chip An embodiment for manufacturing an electronic circuit forms at least one first structure on a semiconductor substrate, determines at least one electrically defined characteristic of the at least one first structure, selects a reticle corresponding to the measured characteristic, and forms at least one additional structure on the semiconductor substrate with the selected reticle.
US08338189B2	Detection of biomarkers and biomarker complexes The invention features methods and devices for the detection of biomarker complexes and their components and for the sequential detection of multiple epitopes of a biomarker. The invention also features methods for diagnosing disease and evaluating the efficacy of treatment of a subject with a disease.
US08338184B2	Methods for assaying percentage of glycated hemoglobin The invention provides enzymatic methods for direct determination of percentage of glycated hemoglobin in blood samples without the need of a separated measurement of total hemoglobin content in blood samples. The methods utilizes one or two different types of oxidizing agents which selectively oxidize low-molecular weight reducing substances and high-molecular weight (mainly hemoglobin) reducing substances in blood samples, coupled with enzymatic reactions catalyzed by proteases, fructosyl amino acid oxidase. The amount of hydrogen peroxide generated in the reaction is measured for determination of percentage of glycated hemoglobin in blood samples. The invention provides kits for performing the methods of the invention.
US08338179B2	Neomycin-phosphotransferase-genes and methods for the selection of recombinant cells producing high levels of a desired gene product The invention relates to modified neomycin phosphotransferase genes and their use in a selection method for high-producing recombinant cells. The invention further relates to expression vectors which contain a modified neomycin phosphotransferase gene and a gene of interest functionally linked to a heterologous promoter and a method of preparing heterologous gene products using these expression vectors.
US08338176B2	Derivation of neural stem cells from embryonic stem cells Provided is a method for the derivation of neural stem cells (NSCs) from embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and the use of the NSCs for treatment of various neural disorders. The NSCs that are derived from the ESCs are tissue-specific multipotent NSCs with a stable growth rate, unlimited self-renewal capacity, and a predictable differentiation profile. Being both non-tumorigenic and engraftable, the NSCs of the present invention have utility in repopulation stroke-damaged tissue. The NSCs of the present invention may be differentiated to produce tyrosine-hydroxylase expressing neurons, which may be used as a source of dopaminergic neurons for subjects suffering from a condition characterized by dopaminergic dysfunction, such as Parkinson's disease.
US08338171B2	Baboon homolog of human CD147 Polynucleotide sequences encoding a baboon homolog of human CD147 and polypeptides obtainable form the polynucleotides and uses are disclosed.
US08338168B2	Chimeric glycoproteins and pseudotyped lentiviral vectors The present invention provides improved chimeric glycoproteins (GPs) and improved lentiviral vectors pseudotyped with those glycoproteins. Also provided are methods and compositions for making such glycoproteins and vectors, and improved methods of in vitro and in vivo transduction of cells with such vectors. Improved chimeric GPs encode the extracellular and transmembrane domains of GALV or RD114 GPs fused to the cytoplasmic tail of MLV-A GP. Vectors pseudotyped with these GAL V/TR and RD 114/TR GP chimeras have significantly higher titers than vectors coated with the parental GPs. Additionally, RD114/TR-pseudotyped vectors are efficiently concentrated and are resistant to inactivation induced by the complement of both human and macaque sera. RD114 GP-pseudotyped lentiviral vectors have particular utility for in vivo gene transfer applications.
US08338165B2	Nanoparticulate cell culture surface A cell culture article including a substrate having nanoparticles on the substrate surface, the nanoparticle including: a polymer of formula (I) where (x), (y), (z), R, R′, R″, S, W, and X, are as defined herein. Methods for making the cell culture article or cell culture article and methods for performing an assay of a ligand with the article are also disclosed.
US08338164B2	Systems and methods for delivery of a therapeutic agent Methods and apparatus are provided for applying an fragment of a neurotoxin such as the active light chain (LC) of the botulinum toxin (BoNT), such as one of the serotype A, B, C, D, E, F or G botulinum toxins, via permeabilization of targeted cell membranes to enable translocation of the botulinum neurotoxin light chain (BoNT-LC) molecule across the targeted cell membrane to the cell cytosol where a therapeutic response is produced in a mammalian system. The methods and apparatus include use of catheter based delivery systems, non-invasive delivery systems, and transdermal delivery systems.
US08338160B2	Bacillus thuringiensis strain for inhibiting insect pests A novel bacterial strain of Bacillus thuringiensis for inhibiting insect pests is provided, wherein the Bacillus thuringiensis includes the fragments of cry1Aa, a cry1Ab, a cry1C, a cry1D and a cry1F genes.
US08338157B2	Rationally-designed meganuclease variants of lig-34 and I-crei for maize genome engineering The invention relates to the field of molecular biology and recombinant nucleic acid technology. In particular, the invention relates to a rationally-designed, non-naturally-occurring meganuclease with altered DNA recognition sequence specificity which recognizes and cleaves a unique DNA site in the maize genome. Disclosed herein are meganucleases which are variants of the I-CreI and LIG-34meganucleases. The invention also relates to methods of producing engineered maize plants using such meganucleases.
US08338155B2	Modified mevalonate kinase with reduced feedback inhibition The present invention relates to modified mevalonate kinases that are less sensitive to feedback inhibition, and to polynucleotides encoding them. The invention further pertains to vectors comprising these polynucleotides and host cells containing such vectors. The invention provides a process for producing the modified enzyme and for producing isoprenoid compounds using the modified enzymes.
US08338153B2	Recombinant hexose oxidase, a method of producing same and use of such enzyme A method of producing hexose oxidase by recombinant DNA technology, recombinant hexose oxidase and the use of such enzyme, in particular in the manufacturing of food products such as doughs and dairy products, animal feed, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, dental care products and in the manufacturing of lactones. Suitable sources of DNA coding for the enzyme are marine algal species including Chondrus crispus, Iridophycus flaccidum and Euthora cristata. In useful embodiments, the recombinant hexose oxidase is produced by Pichia pastoris, Saccharomyces cerevisiae or E. coli.
US08338142B2	Method for producing optically active 3-aminopiperidine or salt thereof The present invention relates to a method for producing an optically active 3-aminopiperidine or salt thereof. In the method, a racemic nipecotamide is stereoselectively hydrolyzed to obtain an optically active nipecotamide and an optically active nipecotic acid in the presence of an enzyme source derived from an organism, and then the optically active nipecotamide is derived into an optically active aminopiperidine or salt thereof by aroylation, Hofmann rearrangement, deprotection of the amino group and further deprotection; or the optically active nipecotamide is derived into an optically active aminopiperidine or salt thereof by selective protection with BOC, Hofmann rearrangement and further deprotection. It is possible by the present invention to produce an optically active 3-aminopiperidine or salt thereof useful as a pharmaceutical intermediate from an inexpensive and easily available starting material by easy method applicable to industrial manufacturing.
US08338141B2	Methionine recovery processes The present invention relates to a method of making a methionine preparation, for example for an animal feed additive. The invention also related to methods for increasing the solubility of a methionine preparation.
US08338140B2	Polymeric carriers of therapeutic agents and recognition moieties for antibody-based targeting of disease sites The present invention concerns methods and compositions for delivery of therapeutic agents to target cells, tissues or organisms. In preferred embodiments, the therapeutic agents are delivered in the form of therapeutic-loaded polymers that may comprise many copies of one or more therapeutic agents. In more preferred embodiments, the polymer may be conjugated to a peptide moiety that contains one or more haptens, such as HSG. The agent-polymer-peptide complex may be delivered to target cells by, for example, a pre-targeting technique utilizing bispecific or multispecific antibodies or fragments, having at least one binding arm that recognizes the hapten and at least a second binding arm that binds specifically to a disease or pathogen associated antigen, such as a tumor associated antigen. Methods for synthesizing and using such therapeutic-loaded polymers and their conjugates are provided.
US08338138B2	Methods for making and using molecular switches involving circular permutation The invention provides molecular switches which couple external signals to functionality, and combinatorial methods of making and using the same involving circular permutation of nucleic acid and amino acid sequences. The switches according to the invention can be used, for example, to regulate gene transcription, target drug delivery to specific cells, transport drugs intracellularly, control drug release, provide conditionally active proteins, perform metabolic engineering, and modulate cell signaling pathways. Libraries comprising the switches, expression vectors and host cells for expressing the switches are also provided.
US08338137B2	Type 5 and type 8 capsular polysaccharides of overproducing S. aureus strains The invention relates to the type 5 and type 8 capsular polysaccharides produced by overproducing S. aureus strains, and also to the immunogenic compositions and the vaccines comprising said capsular polysaccharides.
US08338132B2	Nucleic acids encoding receptor for IL-17 homologous polypeptides and therapeutic uses thereof The present invention is directed to novel polypeptides having sequence identity with IL-17, IL-17 receptors and to nucleic acid molecules encoding those polypeptides. Also provided herein are vectors and host cells comprising those nucleic acid sequences, chimeric polypeptide molecules comprising the polypeptides of the present invention fused to heterologous polypeptide sequences, antibodies which bind to the polypeptides of the present invention and to methods for producing the polypeptides of the present invention. Further provided herein are methods for treating degenerative cartilaginous disorders and other inflammatory diseases.
US08338130B2	Universal fecal fixative comprising a low molecular weight alcohol, a zinc salt and an organic acid This invention provides compositions and methods for fixing biological samples, particularly fecal samples used in the diagnosis of parasitic infection. The fixative composition of the present invention includes a zinc salt, an organic acid and water and permits staining of biological samples without use of toxic compounds, such as formaldehyde and mercury-containing compounds and without the use of additives such as polyvinyl alcohol. The fixative composition and methods are compatible with many diagnostic assays, including trichrome stains, iron hematoxlin, ELISA, fluorescent assays, and lateral flow assays.
US08338129B2	Method for reading images, in particular for studying the development of biofilm in a culture medium A method for reading images of a base of a plate provided with at least one well containing a culture medium of micro-organisms includes: i) forming a opaquing layer covering a surface of the culture medium to form a reading base; and ii) imaging, at specific time intervals, the base of the well using an imaging optical device.
US08338127B2	Testing a mammal for presence, progression or stage of a shock condition Methods and kits for diagnosis and staging of non-septic shock are presented in which one or more protease activities are measured from a biological sample to so identify and/or stage non-septic shock. Most preferably, at least two protease activities are correlated, however, additional or alternative markers may also be measured.
US08338124B2	Methods for inducing differentiation of undifferentiated mammalian cells into osteoblasts The present invention relates to in vivo and in vitro methods, agents and compound screening assays for inducing differentiation of undifferentiated mammalian cells into osteoblasts, including bone formation enhancing pharmaceutical compositions, and the use thereof in treating and/or preventing a disease involving a systemic or local decrease in mean bone density in a subject.
US08338114B1	Engineered human broncho-epithelial tissue-like assemblies Three-dimensional human broncho-epithelial tissue-like assemblies (TLAs) are produced in a rotating wall vessel (RWV) with microcarriers by coculturing mesenchymal bronchial-tracheal cells (BTC) and bronchial epithelium cells (BEC). These TLAs display structural characteristics and express markers of in vivo respiratory epithelia. TLAs are useful for screening compounds active in lung tissues such as antiviral compounds, cystic fibrosis treatments, allergens, and cytotoxic compounds.
US08338111B2	Endometriosis markers The present invention relates to methods for determining a risk or identifying a condition associated with the presence of endometriosis in a subject as well as testing a candidate compound for a therapeutic activity for the treatment of endometriosis and sorting patients based on the risk of having endometriosis. Specifically, the methods utilize novel markers for assessing the risk of the patient having endometriosis.
US08338109B2	Predicting cancer outcome This document provides methods and materials related to assessing prostate cancer in mammals. For example, this document provides nucleic acids and polypeptides that can be analyzed to determine whether a male mammal having prostate cancer is susceptible to a good or poor outcome.
US08338108B2	Agent for promoting the production of thioredoxin A novel pharmaceutical application of an extract from a vaccine virus-inoculated and inflamed tissue and relates to a thioredoxin production promoting agent containing the extract as an active ingredient. The extract has an excellent thioredoxin production promoting action against an oxidative stress caused by a stimulus by such as a tobacco smoke extract or hydrogen peroxide and showed a significant lung cell protective effect. Therefore, the pharmaceutical of the invention containing the extract as an active ingredient is highly useful as a preventive or therapeutic agent for a chronic obstructive lung disease considered to be mainly caused by a continuous oxidative stress such as chronic smoking and the pharmaceutical with less side effects and high safety.
US08338107B2	Method for producing polymers having a preselected activity The present invention relates to a method for isolating from the immunological gene repertoire a gene coding for a receptor having the ability to bind a preselected ligand. Receptors produced by the gene isolated by the method, particularly catalytic receptors, are also contemplated.
US08338106B2	Method of diagnosing poor survival prognosis colon cancer using miR-29a The present invention provides novel methods and compositions for the diagnosis and treatment of colon cancers. In particular, the present invention provides diagnostics and prognostics for colon (including colon adenocarcinoma) cancer patients, wherein the methods related to measuring miR levels can predict poor survival. The invention also provides methods of identifying inhibitors of tumorigenesis.
US08338103B2	Method of diagnosing poor survival prognosis colon cancer using miR-106a The present invention provides novel methods and compositions for the diagnosis and treatment of colon cancers. In particular, the present invention provides diagnostics and prognostics for colon (including colon adenocarcinoma) cancer patients, wherein the methods related to measuring miR levels can predict poor survival. The invention also provides methods of identifying inhibitors of tumorigenesis.
US08338101B2	Method for designing a drug regime for HIV-infected patients The instant disclosure describes a novel genotype and phenotype assay to elucidate and/or evaluate new potential HIV integrase inhibitors, but also currently approved and experimental compounds that target protease, reverse transcriptase, and RNaseH. This assay allows studying linked mutations and mutational patterns that occur under HAART and experimental therapies.
US08338100B1	Isolated genomic polynucleotide fragments from chromosome 12 that encode human carboxypeptidase M The invention is directed to isolated genomic polynucleotide fragments that encode human carboxypeptidase M and human mouse double minute 2 homolog, vectors and hosts containing these fragments and fragments hybridizing to noncoding regions as well as antisense oligonucleotides to these fragments. The invention is further directed to methods of using these fragments to obtain human carboxypeptidase M and human mouse double minute 2 homolog and to diagnose, treat, prevent and/or ameliorate a pathological disorder.
US08338098B2	Methods and compositions for improved cattle longevity and milk production A single nucleotide polymorphic site at position 10793 of the bovine POU1F1 gene is associated with improved longevity and milk product traits. Disclosed are nucleic acid molecules, kits, methods of genotyping and marker assisted bovine breeding methods.
US08338097B2	Method and apparatus for combined electrochemical synthesis and detection of analytes Described are devices and methods for detecting binding on an electrode surface. In addition, devices and methods for electrochemically synthesizing polymers and devices and methods for synthesizing and detecting binding to the polymer on a common integrated device surface are described.
US08338093B2	Primer array synthesis and validation Methods are presented for generating large sets for polymers. The methods employ high density oligonucleotide array.
US08338091B2	Methods and compositions for seamless cloning of nucleic acid molecules The present invention is in the fields of biotechnology and molecular biology. More particularly, the present invention relates to cloning or subcloning one or more nucleic acid molecules comprising one or more type IIs restriction enzyme recognition sites. The present invention also embodies cloning such nucleic acid molecules using recombinational cloning methods such as those employing recombination sites and recombination proteins. The present invention also relates to nucleic acid molecules (including RNA and iRNA), as well as proteins, expressed from host cells produced using the methods of the present invention.
US08338084B2	Patterning method A method of patterning a dielectric layer with a Zep 520 positive EB photoresist as a mask, comprising the steps of depositing an α-Si film on the dielectric layer; providing a layer of Zep 520 positive EB photoresist having high-resolution patterns therein by electron beam direct writing; etching the α-Si film by chlorine-based plasma with the layer of Zep 520 positive EB photoresist as a mask, so as to transfer the high-resolution patterns of the Zep 520 positive EB photoresist to the underlying α-Si film; removing the Zep 520 positive EB photoresist; etching the dielectric layer by fluorine-based plasma with the α-Si film having high-fidelity patterns as a hard mask, so as to provide patterns of recesses; and removing the α-Si film by wet etching or dry etching. The inventive method is completely compatible with and easily incorporated into the conventional CMOS processes, with high reliability and resolution for providing nanoscale fine patterns of recesses. It solves the above-mentioned problem in the fabrication of novel structure of CMOS device.
US08338082B2	DI water rinse of photoresists with insoluble dye content A method of forming a pattern in a photoresist layer which contains a dye that is insoluble in the developer solution is disclosed. A rinse liquid, typically deionized water, is dispensed onto the substrate while it is rotated at less than 750 rpm. The dye in the exposed regions is carried off by the rinse liquid, and does not accumulate in corners of exposed regions at the edge of the substrate due to centrifugal action.
US08338079B2	Compositions and methods for forming electronic devices Compositions are provided which can be used for treating photoresist patterns in the manufacture of electronic devices. The compositions allow for the formation of fine lithographic patterns and find particular applicability in semiconductor device manufacture.
US08338076B2	Resist composition, method of forming resist pattern, novel compound, and acid generator A resist composition including a base component (A) which exhibits changed solubility in an alkali developing solution under action of acid and an acid-generator component (B) which generates acid upon exposure, the acid-generator component (B) including an acid generator (B1) containing a compound having a cation moiety comprising a group represented by general formula (I) (in the formula, R5 represents an organic group having a carbonyl group, an ester bond or a sulfonyl group; and Q represents a divalent linking group).
US08338073B2	Lithographic printing plate support, method of manufacturing the same, and presensitized plate A lithographic printing plate support in which surface unevenness due to surface treatment has been suppressed and a presensitized plate of excellent sensitivity are produced from an aluminum alloy plate containing iron, silicon, titanium and boron by specifying the state in which TiB2 particles are present in the surface layer and the width of the crystal grains, and by having specific indicators relating to the respective concentrations of iron and silicon in the surface layer following graining treatment fall within specific ranges. In a method of manufacturing the lithographic printing plate support, an aluminum alloy melt having specified alloying ingredients is subjected to a specified casting process to have the amount of the alloying ingredients in solid solution following cold rolling fall within specified ranges.
US08338072B2	Resist composition, resist pattern forming process, and method for manufacturing semiconductor device To provide a resist composition capable of prevention of the formation of abnormal resist pattern shapes for efficient, high-precision formation of fine, high-resolution resist patterns, a resist pattern forming process capable of efficient, high-precision formation of finer, high-resolution resist patterns by using the resist composition, and a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device. The resist composition of the present invention includes a base resin, a photoacid generator, a first additive, and a second additive, wherein the pKa of the second additive is higher than the pKa of the first additive, and at a resist formation temperature, the vapor pressure of the second additive is lower than the vapor pressure of the first additive.
US08338071B2	Processes for producing polyester latexes via single-solvent-based emulsification A process for making a latex emulsion suitable for use in a toner composition includes contacting at least one crystalline polyester resin with an organic solvent to form a resin mixture, adding a neutralizing agent, and deionized water to the resin mixture, removing the solvent from the formed latex, and continuously recovering latex particles.
US08338069B2	Toner compositions The present disclosure provides processes for producing toner particles, and toner particles produced by such processes. The processes of the present disclosure combine melt-mixing and grinding of toner components to produce toner particles, followed by a coalescing treatment which provides toner particles having desirable spherical properties.
US08338064B2	Polycarbonate resin composition and electrophotographic photosensitive body using the same A long-life electrophotographic photosensitive body having excellent wear resistance and crack resistance can be obtained by using a polycarbonate resin composition, which is obtained by blending 0.01-5 parts by weight of a silicone-modified polyurethane per 100 parts by weight of a polycarbonate resin, as a binder for photosensitive layer (or in case when the photosensitive layer is of multilayer type, for at least an electron transport layer) of the electrophotographic photosensitive body. The silicone-modified polyurethane is obtained by reacting a diol component (a) represented by the general formula (I) below, an active hydrogen-containing polysiloxane compound (b), a polyisocyanate component (c) and, if necessary, a chain extender (d). (In the formula (I), R1 and R2 independently represent a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group; R3 represents a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group, an alkoxy group, a halogen atom or an alkoxycarbonyl group; M represents a single bond, a substituted or unsubstituted alkylene group or an oxyalkylene group; and n represents an integer of 0-4.
US08338059B2	Hybrid membrane-electrode assembly with minimal interfacial resistance and preparation method thereof The present invention provides a membrane-electrode assembly comprising: electrodes consisting of a anode comprising a gas diffusion layer and a catalyst material-containing active layer, and an cathode comprising a diffusion layer and a catalyst material-containing active layer; and an electrolyte membrane interposed between the anode and the cathode and comprising a catalyst material-containing active layer at one or both sides, the electrodes being hot-pressed, to the electrolyte membrane, wherein in coating the active layer on the gas diffusion layer, the viscosity of the active layer is in a range of 100 to 10,000 cPs, as well as a production method thereof. The inventive membrane-electrode assembly has a low interfacial resistance between the membrane and the electrodes, as well as high catalyst availability and excellent power density, and can be mass-produced.
US08338058B2	Separator for fuel cell having intermediate layer and method for manufacturing same There is provided a separator for a fuel cell having a very good anticorrosiveness and electrical conductivity.A separator for a fuel cell according to the present invention includes: a base 1 formed of a steel which contains 10.5 mass % or more of Cr; a metal film 3 formed on the surface of the base 1; and an intermediate layer 2 formed between the base 1 and the metal film 3, the intermediate layer 2 containing oxygen. The metal film 3 is composed of at least one metallic element selected from the group consisting of Ta, Nb, and Ti, and the intermediate layer 2 contains Fe and Cr which are contained in the steel and at least one metallic element selected from the group consisting of Ta, Nb, and Ti composing the metal film 3.
US08338053B2	Conductive sintered body, conductive member for fuel cell, fuel cell, and fuel cell apparatus The invention relates to a conductive sintered body capable of being effectively prevented from reduction-induced expansion, as well as to a conductive member for fuel cell, a fuel cell, and a fuel cell apparatus. The conductive sintered body contains a first composite oxide phase (59) based on lanthanum chromite and a second composite oxide phase (55) containing Mg and Ni, and around the second composite oxide phase (55), Ni (57) is deposited. Such a conductive sintered body is used for fuel cell. Further, a conductive member for such a fuel cell is composed of a fuel electrode layer (32) and an oxide electrode layer (34) with a solid electrolyte layer (33) held therebetween; and is used as an interconnector (35) of a fuel cell (30) which is provided with the interconnector (35) connected to the fuel electrode layer (32).
US08338050B2	Membrane electrode assembly for fuel cell The membrane electrode assembly includes an anode including a catalyst and a solid polymer electrolyte; a cathode including a catalyst and a solid polymer electrolyte; a solid polymer electrolyte membrane interposed between the anode and the cathode; an anode gas diffusion layer; and a cathode gas diffusion layer, a set composed of the anode, the cathode and the solid polymer electrolyte membrane being interposed between the anode gas diffusion layer and the cathode gas diffusion layer, wherein the cathode gas diffusion layer contains an oxidation catalyst and a water-repellent resin.
US08338048B2	Fuel cell A fuel cell with a gas chamber, arranged between two plate elements, is provided. One of the plate elements includes bosses for supporting the plate element on the other plate element in a regular grid structure. Between the bosses runs a network of gas channels passing through the gas chamber, the bosses being at most three times longer than wide. The bosses form between themselves first gas channels in a first region of the gas chamber and larger-volume second gas channels in a second region of the gas chamber.
US08338047B2	Solid oxide fuel cell The present invention is a solid oxide fuel cell configuration which equalizes gas volume distributed into each power generation cell to stabilize fuel cell output and improve the output efficiency. In the present invention, a flat plate laminating type solid oxide fuel cell has a reactant gas supply manifold extending through a fuel cell stack in the laminating direction, for supplying reactant gas to each of power generation cells through gas passages of separators which are communicated with the manifold. The manifold and the passages of the separators are in communication with each other through a gas-flow throttle mechanisms.
US08338046B2	Fuel cell system The fuel cell system includes: a fuel cell stack which is supplied with reaction gas, and performs electricity generation; a reaction gas supplier which supplies the reaction gas to the fuel cell stack; a ground fault detector which detects a ground fault from the fuel cell stack; and a reaction gas increasing member which increases an amount of a reaction gas supply to the fuel cell stack, when the ground fault is detected by the ground fault detector.
US08338042B2	Fuel cell system A fuel cell system includes a controller that estimates or detects an air replacement state of a fuel electrode and a hydrogen circulation path while the operation of the fuel cell system is stopped. Upon starting the fuel cell system, the controller changes the order in which the operation of a hydrogen circulation pump is started and a hydrogen pressure regulator is opened to start the supply of hydrogen gas on the basis of the estimated or detected air replacement state, thereby preventing deterioration caused by uneven distribution of air and hydrogen in the fuel electrode.
US08338031B2	Cathode and lithium battery including the same Provided are a cathode and a lithium battery including the cathode. The cathode includes a cathode active material that includes an oxide represented by the following Formula 1: LixNi0.5+y(Mn1-z1-z2Mz1Moz2)0.5−yO2, wherein 0.9
US08338028B2	Electrode active material for power storage device, power storage device, and electronic and transport devices An electrode active material for a power storage device of the invention includes a ketone compound that includes a ring structure in a molecule, the ring structure being a five-membered or seven-membered ring composed of atoms at least three adjacent ones of which are each bonded to a ketone group. The electrode active material for a power storage device of the invention has a high weight-energy density and good reversibility of oxidation-reduction reaction. The use of the electrode active material for a power storage device of the invention can provide a power storage device having a high capacity, a high voltage, and good charge/discharge cycle characteristics.
US08338025B2	Self-sealed metal electrode for rechargeable oxide-ion battery cells The outer surface of a metal electrode 202 of a rechargeable oxide-ion battery (ROB) cell is covered by its own dense electrolyte 204 and interconnection 206, where the dense electrolyte 204 and interconnection 206 hermetically seal the metal electrode away from oxygen-containing environment to prevent direct contact between active metal and oxygen which would lead to self discharge, thus, producing a self-sealed metal electrode of a ROB cell without introducing additional sealing components.
US08338024B2	Electrical connection device for an output terminal of a storage battery A sealed storage battery including a container containing an electrochemical stack having alternating positive and negative electrodes on either side of separators impregnated with electrolyte; a current output terminal passing through a wall of the container; and a connector electrically connecting the electrodes of one polarity to the terminal passing through a wall of the container. The connector includes a flat connection welded to the electrodes and an elastic connection fitted without welding to the terminal passing through a wall of the container.
US08338023B2	AA alkaline battery A positive electrode and a negative electrode are accommodated in a bottomed cylindrical battery case with a separator interposed therebetween, and an opening part of the battery case is sealed by means of a gasket. A body part of the battery case has a thickness in the range between 0.1 and 0.17 mm. The positive electrode is made of a material obtained by adding graphite to manganese dioxide. The density of the graphite in the material of the positive electrode is in the range between 0.12 and 0.23 g/cm3.
US08338020B2	Multi-layer microporous film Embodiments of the invention relate to microporous membranes that include first and second layers. The first layer includes ≦20.0 wt. % polymethylpentene and the second layer includes a compatibilizer. The invention also relates to methods for making such membranes and the use of such membranes as battery separator film.
US08338015B2	Battery cover latching assembly A battery cover latching assembly comprises a battery housing member, a battery cover and a plurality of latching members. The battery cover is mounted to the battery housing and has a first surface facing the battery housing member. The battery cover has a plurality of latching portions protruding from the first surface. The latching members are mounted to the battery housing member respectively corresponding to the latching portions of the battery cover. Each latching member has a plurality of hooks corresponding to the latching portions, the hooks are latched with the latching portions.
US08338012B2	Method for managing the heat in an electric battery Methods for managing the heat in an electric battery, including, when recharging said battery, preconditioning at an average temperature T0 and, when using said battery, determining the difference ΔT1 between the temperatures of the hottest element and of the coolest element and as the absolute value ΔT2 of the difference between the temperature T0 and the average temperature T of said battery. The method includes, when the difference ΔT1 is lower than a first setpoint C1, deactivating the circulating device and as the heat-conditioning devices and, when the difference ΔT1 is higher than a first setpoint C1 or when the difference ΔT2 is higher than a second setpoint C2, activating the fluid-circulating device while keeping the heat-conditioning devices deactivated if the difference ΔT2 is lower than the second setpoint C2, or while activating a heat-conditioning device if the difference ΔT2 is higher than the second setpoint C2.
US08338011B2	Battery temperature control apparatus and battery temperature control method A battery temperature control apparatus capable of controlling the temperature of a battery to reach a suitable condition is provided. Thermal capacity determining unit 61, based on the temperature of battery 1 detected by battery temperature detector 2 and a target temperature stored in storage unit 5, determines the thermal capacity necessary for setting the temperature of battery 1 to the target temperature. Temperature regulating ability determining unit 62, based on the temperature of battery 1 detected by battery temperature detector 2 and the temperature of the temperature regulating medium detected by medium temperature detector 4, determines the temperature regulating ability of fan 3. Flow rate controller 63, based on the thermal capacity determined by thermal capacity determining unit 61 and the temperature regulating ability determined by temperature regulating ability determining unit 62, controls the flow rate of the temperature regulating medium sent by the fan. The temperature of battery 1 becomes close to the target temperature due to the temperature regulating medium sent from fan 3.
US08338010B2	Safety device for a sealed accumulator The invention relates to a safety device for a watertight electro-chemical accumulator (1), comprising a circuit breaker (13) which is actuated by an overpressure inside a container (2) of the accumulator, and a gas generator (20) which is activated when the temperature in the generator exceeds a predetermined threshold value. The safety device can be used for quickly interrupting the current flow through the accumulator in case of malfunction and before electrolyte vapors are generated.
US08338009B2	Battery and battery unit A battery (3) includes a battery case (10) having an opening sealed with a sealing plate (13). The sealing plate (13) has a protrusion (13a) extending in a direction toward the outside of the battery case (10), and a ring-shaped insulator (32) is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the protrusion (13a). An inner circumferential portion (32e) of the insulator (32) is in contact with the outer circumferential surface (13b) of the protrusion (13a), and an outer circumferential portion (32d) of the insulator (32) is extended to be positioned on an opening end (10a) of the battery case (10).
US08338007B2	Magnetic recording medium and magnetic recording apparatus A magnetic recording medium a magnetic recording medium includes a soft magnetic layer formed on a substrate, magnetic patterns made of a protruded ferromagnetic layer separated from each other on the soft magnetic layer, and a nonmagnetic layer formed between the magnetic patterns, a nitrogen concentration therein being higher on a surface side than on a substrate side.
US08338004B2	Magnetic tunnel junction structure having free layer with oblique magnetization The present invention provides a magnetic tunnel junction structure, including a first magnetic layer having a fixed magnetization direction and a second magnetic layer having a reversible magnetization direction. A non-magnetic layer is formed between the first magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer and a third magnetic layer allows the magnetization direction of the second magnetic layer to be inclined with respect to a plane of the second magnetic layer by a magnetic coupling to the second magnetic layer with a vertical magnetic anisotropic energy thereof larger than a horizontal magnetic anisotropic energy thereof. A crystal-structure separation layer is formed between the second magnetic layer and the third magnetic layer for separating a crystal orientation between the second and the third magnetic layers.
US08337999B2	Organic electroluminescent device including at least one layer containing an indole derivative An organic electroluminescent device is provided and includes: a pair of electrodes; and at least one organic layer between the pair of electrodes, the at least one organic layer including a light-emitting layer. The at least one organic layer includes at least one layer containing an indole derivative represented by formula (1), and the light-emitting layer includes a platinum complex phosphorescent material having a tetradentate ligand. R101, R102, R103, R104, R105, R106 and R107 each independently represents a hydrogen atom or a substituent, provided that R102 and R103 are not bonded to each other to form an aromatic condensed ring.
US08337997B2	Composite material for electrical/electronic part and electrical/electronic part using the same A composite material for an electrical/electronic part, which is used as a material for use in an electrical/electronic part, containing: a metal base material having at least a surface formed of Cu or a Cu alloy; and an insulating film provided on at least a part of the metal base material; wherein a metal layer having Cu diffused in Ni or a Ni alloy is interposed between the metal base material and the insulating film; and wherein the ratio of the number of Cu atoms to the number of Ni atoms (Cu/Ni) obtained by analyzing the outermost surface of the metal layer by Auger electron spectroscopy is 0.005 or more.
US08337993B2	Low embodied energy wallboards and methods of making same Wallboards, as well as other building materials, are produced by methods which use significantly reduced embodied energy, generating far less greenhouse gases when compared with the energy used to fabricate gypsum wallboard. A novel cementitious core, consisting in one embodiment of post-industrial waste such as slag and combined with pH modifiers, provides a controlled exothermic reaction to create a gypsum-wallboard-like core which can be wrapped in a selected material such as recycled paper and manufactured on a conveyor system to appear, weigh and handle similar to gypsum wallboard, but without the large amounts of energy required to make gypsum wallboard. The manufacturing process results in lower greenhouse gas emissions than the processes used to make gypsum wallboard.
US08337988B2	Coated article having low-E coating with absorber layer(s) A coated article is provided, having a coating supported by a glass substrate where the coating includes at least one color and/or reflectivity-adjusting absorber layer. The absorber layer(s) allows color tuning, and reduces the glass side reflection of the coated article and/or allows sheet resistance of the coating to be reduced without degrading glass side reflection. In certain example embodiments the absorber layer is provided between first and second dielectric layers which may be of substantially the same material and/or composition. In certain example embodiments, the coated article is capable of achieving desirable transmission, together with desired color, low reflectivity, and low selectivity, when having only one infrared (IR) reflecting layer of silver and/or gold. Coated articles according to certain example embodiments of this invention may be used in the context of insulating glass (IG) window units, monolithic windows, or the like.
US08337987B2	Exterior UV-cured coatings and coating systems and methods of forming exterior UV-cured coating systems A coated system having a UV-curable coating, a method of forming the coated system, and a UV-curable coating for the coated systems are disclosed. The coated system has exterior durability and includes a film, a reflective ink applied to the film, and a UV-cured coating applied to the film. The film and the reflective ink each include at least one IR reflective pigment and at least one color chelator.
US08337986B2	Fuser member coating having aliphatic-aromatic fluoropolymers A fuser member including a substrate, and thereover, an outer layer with a fluorinated polymer having a flexible aliphatic segment and a rigid aromatic segment, wherein the aliphatic segment and the aromatic segment are bonded through a linkage group.
US08337985B2	Coated substrates, organometallic films and methods for applying organometallic films to substrates A coated article comprising a substrate having a plastic surface and adhered thereto an organometallic film in which the metal has f electron orbitals or is niobium is disclosed. Also disclosed are methods for applying organometallic films to substrates and the organometallic films themselves.
US08337982B2	Benzoxazole resin precursor, polybenzoxazole resin, resin film and semiconductor device A benzoxazole resin precursor comprising a first repeating unit which is obtained by the reaction of a bisaminophenol compound and a dicarboxylic acid compound, at least one of which has the diamondoid structure; a benzoxazole resin precursor further comprising a second repeating unit which is obtained by the reaction of a bisaminophenol compound having no diamondoid structure and a dicarboxylic acid compound having no diamondoid structure; a polybenzoxazole resin obtained by the ring-closing reaction with dehydration of the above benzoxazole resin precursor; a resin film constituted with the benzoxazole resin precursor or the polybenzoxazole resin. A polybenzoxazole resin and a resin film having excellent heat resistance and a small permittivity and a semiconductor device using the resin film can be obtained from the benzoxazole resin precursor.
US08337980B2	Silicone-impregnated foam product and method for producing same The present invention relates to products having a foam carrier or substrate, and particularly to such products employing a reticulated polyurethane foam carrier impregnated with silicone polymer. The present invention also relates to a method of producing these silicone-impregnated foam products.
US08337974B2	Ceramic membrane based on a substrate containing polymer or natural fibres, method for the production and use thereof The present invention relates to membranes and to a process for making them.The membranes according to the invention comprise a sheetlike flexible substrate having a multiplicity of openings and having a coating on and in said substrate, the material of said substrate being selected from nonwovens of polymeric fibers, said nonwovens having a porosity of more than 50% and said coating being a porous ceramic coating, said substrate preferably being from 10 to 200 μm in thickness. Such membranes provide a distinctly higher flux than conventional membranes.The membranes are useful as separators for batteries or as a microfiltration membrane.
US08337972B2	Embedded conductor honeycomb core and sandwich panel incorporating same A honeycomb core includes a first wall, a second wall, and a conductor disposed between the first wall and the second wall. The first wall and the second wall define a cell through which the conductor extends. A sandwich panel includes an upper skin, a lower skin, and a honeycomb core adhesively bonded to the upper skin and the lower skin. The honeycomb core includes a first wall and a second wall defining a cell. The sandwich panel further includes a conductor disposed between the first wall and the second wall and extending through the cell.
US08337964B2	Liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device The invention is to provide a liquid crystal composition that satisfies at least one of characteristics such as a wide temperature range of nematic phase, a small viscosity, a suitable optical anisotropy, a large negative dielectric anisotropy, a large specific resistance, high stability to ultraviolet light and high stability to heat, or that is suitably balanced regarding at least two of the characteristics; and is to provide a AM device that has a short response time, a large voltage holding ratio, a large contrast ratio, a long service life and so forth. The liquid crystal composition having a negative dielectric anisotropy may include a two-ring compound having a large negative dielectric anisotropy and at least three fluorines or chlorines at the lateral positions as a first component; and a specific compound having a large negative dielectric anisotropy as a second component. The liquid crystal display device contains this composition.
US08337963B2	Liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device A liquid crystal composition that satisfies at least one of characteristics such as high maximum temperature of a nematic phase, low minimum temperature of a nematic phase, small viscosity, large optical anisotropy, large positive dielectric anisotropy, large specific resistance, high stability to ultraviolet light and high stability to heat, or that is suitably balanced between at least two of the characteristics is provided. An AM device that has short response time, large voltage holding ratio, large contrast ratio, long service life and so forth is provided. The liquid crystal composition has positive dielectric anisotropy and includes a specific four-ring compound having a high maximum temperature of a nematic phase and a large dielectric anisotropy as a first component, a specific four-ring compound having a large positive dielectric anisotropy as a second component, and a specific four-ring compound having a high maximum temperature of a nematic phase as a third component.
US08337960B2	Seasoning method for film-forming apparatus A seasoning method for a film-forming apparatus configured to form a silicon nitride film on a substrate placed in a process chamber. The method is conducted for reducing particles in the apparatus. The method comprises executing the plasma cleaning of the process chamber to remove a film deposited on the inner wall thereof (step S1), subsequently depositing an amorphous silicon film (step S2), depositing thereon a silicon nitride film in which the nitrogen content gradually increases in the thickness direction (step S3), and keeping the inside of the process chamber being filled with a rare-gas plasma until film formation on the substrate is initiated (step S4).
US08337951B2	Superhydrophobic surface and method of forming same using high-aspect ratio nano-texture Certain aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a method of forming a superhydrophobic surface. The method includes: preparing a surface of a substrate of a first material; modifying the surface through an etching process to generate a plurality of nucleation sites in an array; forming, by using glancing angle deposition, a plurality of nano-rods of a second material and each at a respective one of the plurality of nucleation sites in the array; and depositing a conformal coating on the plurality of nano-rods.
US08337948B2	Method for manufacturing film-formed body Provided is a method for manufacturing a film-formed body wherein a second film is formed by suppressing influence of existence/absence of a first film, at the time of forming the second film by making fine particles collide and deposited on a second film forming surface on a substrate whereupon the first film has been already formed. A film-formed body is provided with a foil-like substrate having a first film-forming surface and a second film-forming surface; a first film formed on a part of the first film-forming surface; and a second film formed at least on a part of the second film-forming surface. The first film includes an overlapping section which overlaps with the second film when viewed in the thickness direction of the substrate. A method for manufacturing such film-formed body is provided with a second film-forming step of forming the second film on the second film-forming surface whereupon the first film has been formed, by making the fine particles collide and deposited on the second film-forming surface, by using a supporting member having a supporting surface and a recessed section depressed from the supporting surface.
US08337946B2	Coated noble metal elements for glass production The regionally coated noble metal element used in glass production has an uncoated region for contacting a glass melt and an H2-impervious layer or an H2-impervious and O2-impervious layer on a side opposite from the uncoated region, which has a layer thickness ≧1 mm, is heat-resistant, and is either liquid or solid. This layer is made from at least one glass or glass mixture, an at least partly crystallized glass or a ceramic material. The coated noble metal element can be a Danner channel, a Vello draw head, an A-draw head, a Vello needle, a drawdown needle, a discharge ring or a Danner blowpipe. A process for coating a noble metal element to produce the regionally coated noble metal element is also described.
US08337936B2	Implant and method for manufacturing same The present invention proposes a method for manufacturing an implant, in particular an intraluminal endoprosthesis, having a body such that the body has metallic material. To control the degradation in a desired time window, e.g., between four weeks and six months, the following production method is performed: a) preparing the body of the implant, and b) plasma-chemical treatment of at least a portion of the surface of the body in an aqueous solution by applying a plasma-generating electric alternating voltage to the body (5) of the implant, said voltage having a frequency of at least approximately 1 kHz, to create a first layer. The invention also relates to an implant obtainable by such a method.
US08337930B2	Packaged Oolong-tea beverage Provided is a packaged Oolong-tea beverage which contains an Oolong tea extract having a tannin/Brix ratio of from 200 to 265 (mg/100 mL/wt. %) and has a non-polymer catechin content of from 0.06 to 0.5 wt. %.The packaged Oolong-tea beverage of the present invention contains a high concentration of catechins and at the same time, tastes good without losing the original taste of Oolong tea.
US08337924B2	Formulation of milk-based beverages for carbonation A composition for addition to a milk or milk-based beverage, in which a preferred embodiment of the composition includes on a w/w basis (to a total of 100) Silica between about 1% to about 10%, vegetable oil between about 20%-about 90%; and Polyglycol mix between about 10%-about 90%. The composition is provided in an amount to control foaming and frothing in the beverage as a result of carbonation.
US08337920B2	Method for processing biomaterials Systems and methods for thermal preservation (sterilization) of heterogeneous and multiphase foods and biomaterials in order to achieve their shelf stability at ambient level temperatures. Flowing heterogeneous, multiphase foods and biomaterials are exposed to single or multiple stages of electromagnetic energy under continuous flow conditions within conduits passing through the electromagnetic energy exposure chambers.
US08337917B2	Nut skin products The invention relates to products, including foods such as confectionary and pet foods, comprising nut skins. Exemplary nut skins are peanut and almond skins. The products may also contain cocoa polyphenol and/or L-arginine, and are useful for inducing vasodilation.
US08337915B2	Fenugreek seed extract to lower blood cholesterol A method of lowering blood cholesterol in a non-diabetic patient by at least 30% is described. The method involves orally administering for 30 consecutive days a fenugreek seed extract composition. Various methods of preparation and various formulations are described. Physiologically effective pharmaceutical compositions and beverages containing fenugreek seed extracts and other active components are also disclosed.
US08337912B2	Method for extraction of material from a Sapindacea family fruit The invention of the present application provides a standardized method to obtain a material from Sapindacea family fruits, wherein the material is utilized by itself or in combination with other compounds to make preparations. The material by itself has surfactant, emulsifying and foaming properties, among others. In addition, the invention provides a preparation wherein the material is used in combination with Swinglea glutinosa extract. The preparation enhances the ability of the Swinglea glutinosa extract to kill and prevent fungi, and to kill and repel insects and mites.
US08337905B2	Multi-component peracid generation system Disclosed herein are multi-component peroxycarboxylic acid generation systems for enzymatically producing aqueous formulations of peroxycarboxylic acids suitable for use in, e.g., disinfectant and/or bleaching applications. The multi-component peroxycarboxylic acid generation systems comprise at least one carbohydrate esterase family 7 enzyme having perhydrolytic activity.
US08337904B2	Magnesium-substituted hydroxyapatites A stable, phase-pure magnesium-substituted crystalline hydroxyapatite containing from about 2.0 to about 29 wt % magnesium, wherein at least 75 wt % of the magnesium content is substituted for calcium ions in the hydroxyapatite lattice structure.
US08337903B2	Antitumoral agents with a benzophenanthridine structure and formulations containing them The use of benzophenanthridine alkaloids and the salts thereof for the preparation of medicaments for the treatment of tumors is disclosed.
US08337902B2	Degradation of prion protein and reduced prion infectivity by earthworm homogenates Methods for the degradation of prion proteins are described. Items that may be contaminated with prions are treated with earthworm-derived extracts to degrade prion proteins and reduce their infectivity in animals. Methods of using an earthworm-derived protein extract for treating foodstuffs and surfaces to inhibit or disable prion infectivity are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods for treating medical instruments, tools used to butcher animals, and laboratory equipment.
US08337896B2	Drug-containing nanoparticles The present invention relates to nanoparticles containing pioglitazone or a salt thereof and a biocompatible polymer, a pharmaceutical preparation containing the nanoparticles for the prophylaxis or treatment of arteriosclerotic diseases, and a stent carrying the nanoparticles. Using the nanoparticles of the present invention, rupture of arteriosclerotic plaque can be suppressed, and they are useful for the prophylaxis or treatment of arteriosclerotic diseases.
US08337895B2	Spray drying process control of drying kinetics The present invention provides exemplary systems and methods for producing dry powder formulations. In one embodiment, a system (10) includes at least one conditioning zone (12) having an inlet (20) to introduce an atomized formulation (18) into the conditioning zone. A controller (14, 16) controls temperature and relative humidity of the airflow into the conditioning zone to allow amorphous-to-crystalline transformation of the atomized formulation. In another embodiment, the formulation is suspended in the conditioning zone for a residence time of sufficient duration to allow surface orientation of surface active components. A dryer (24) is coupled to the conditioning zone to dry the atomized formulation, and a collector (28) collects the formulation in powder form.
US08337894B2	Process of manufacturing a solid cosmetic product A process of manufacturing a solid cosmetic product, includes the steps of applying to a composition based on powder and fluid binder, introduced into a mould, a sheet of porous material having an average pore diameter ranging from 5 to 180 μm; then passing at least some of the volatile solvent through the sheet; removing the volatile solvent that has passed through the sheet and drying the composition in order to solidify it before depositing it in a packaging. The solid product obtained according to this process and to its uses as a face and/or body makeup product are also described.
US08337891B2	Enteric coated composition comprising prostaglandin analogs as chloride channel opener The present invention provides an enteric coated composition for oral administration of a chloride channel opener which can provide improved pharmaceutical activity with reduced adverse side effect such as nausea.
US08337890B2	Modified release formulations containing drug-ion exchange resin complexes A coated drug-ion exchange resin complex comprising a core composed of a drug complexed with a pharmaceutically acceptable ion-exchange resin is provided. The drug-ion exchange resin complex is in admixture with a release retardant. The coating is a polyvinyl acetate polymer and a plasticizer. Methods of making and products containing this coated complex are described.
US08337887B2	Rapidly disintegrating taste-masked tablet The present invention concerns a rapidly disintegrating taste-masked tablet having both hardness and non-friability properties comprising at least one active principle selected from the group of mineral salts, vitamins and mixtures thereof, the active principle being coated by a sweetening agent wherein the weight ratio of the active principle to the sweetening agent is from 0.2 to 3, and starch and microcrystalline cellulose in a weight ratio of starch to microcrystalline cellulose from about 0.76 to 0.85, and at least one free flow aid. It also concerns a method for the preparation of such a tablet.
US08337886B2	Pellet formulation for the treatment of the intestinal tract An orally adminsterable pharmaceutical pellet formulation for the treatment of the intestinal tract is disclosed, which comprises a core and an enteric coating, the core including, as a pharmaceutical active compound, aminosalicylic acid or a pharmaceutically tolerable salt or a derivative thereof.
US08337883B2	Transdermal delivery systems Disclosed are bupivacaine transdermal delivery systems, and related methods.
US08337879B2	Absorbable implants and methods for their use in hemostasis and in the treatment of osseous defects The present invention relates to mechanically hemostatic body-absorbable compositions having a putty-like consistency. The compositions preferably comprise a finely powdered, carboxylic acid salt and a liquid block copolymer of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide.
US08337878B2	Medical devices having coatings for therapeutic agent delivery According to an aspect of the invention, implantable and insertable medical devices are provided that include (a) a substrate, (b) a porous layer comprising interconnected pores disposed over the substrate, (c) at least one first therapeutic agent disposed within and/or beneath the porous layer, (d) a composite layer disposed over the porous layer that includes (i) at least one therapeutic agent eluting region containing at least one second therapeutic agent and at least one matrix material and (ii) at least one bioerodible region containing at least one bioerodible material that extends from the surface of the composite layer to the porous layer.
US08337874B2	Primer coating of inorganic material for implantable devices Coatings for implantable devices or endoluminal prosthesis, such as stents, are provided, including a method of forming the coatings. The coatings can be used for the delivery of an active ingredient or a combination of active ingredients.
US08337873B2	Hollow and porous orthopaedic or dental implant that delivers a biological agent This invention relates to the synthesis of new tooth or bone from an encapsulated biological agent such as a growth factor or stem cells contained within a hollow and porous biocompatible vehicle such as a titanium implant placed (implanted) within the body of a host animal such as a human.
US08337872B2	Method of inhibiting the transmission of influenza virus Antimicrobial compositions having a rapid and persistent antiviral effectiveness against influenza viruses, including avian flu viruses, are disclosed. The antimicrobial compositions contain (a) a disinfecting alcohol, (b) an organic acid, and (c) water, wherein the composition has a pH of about 5 or less and the nonvolatile components of the composition are capable of forming a barrier film or layer on a treated surface.
US08337866B2	Porin B (PorB) as a therapeutic target for prevention and treatment of infection by chlamydia The present invention features peptides of a PorB polypeptide, which PorB peptides are useful in production of antibodies that bind the full-length PorB polypeptide and as a therapeutic agent. In specific embodiments the invention features a composition comprising one or more PorB peptides (other than a full-length PorB polypeptide), which peptides contain at least one epitope that can elicit Chlamydia-neutralizing antibodies. The invention also features methods for induction of a protective immune response against infection by Chlamydia and Chlamydiophila.
US08337860B2	Development of dengue virus vaccine components The invention is related to a dengue virus or chimeric dengue virus that contains a mutation in the 3′ untranslated region (3′-UTR) comprising a Δ30 mutation that removes the TL-2 homologous structure in each of the dengue virus serotypes 1, 2, 3, and 4, and nucleotides additional to the Δ30 mutation deleted from the 3′-UTR that removes sequence in the 5′ direction as far as the 5′ boundary of the TL-3 homologous structure in each of the dengue virus serotypes 1, 2, 3, and 4, or a replacement of the 3′-UTR of a dengue virus of a first serotype with the 3′-UTR of a dengue virus of a second serotype, optionally containing the Δ30 mutation and nucleotides additional to the Δ30 mutation deleted from the 3′-UTR; and immunogenic compositions, methods of inducing an immune response, and methods of producing a dengue virus or chimeric dengue virus.
US08337858B2	Extracts of Aphanizomenon Flos Aquae and nutritional, cosmetic and pharmaceutical compositions containing the same The invention provides extracts of the microalga Aphanizomenon Flos Aquae Aquae Ralfs ex Born. & Flah. Var. flos aquae (AFA Klamath) and biologically active components thereof, in particular AFA-phycocyanins, determined as the complex c-phycopcyanin/phycoerythrocyanin (including the chromophore phycoviolobilin), AFA-phytochrome and mycosporine-like aminoacids (MAAs), nutritional, cosmetic and pharmaceutical compositions containing the same, for use in the prophylaxis or treatment of diseases, disturbances or conditions involving acute or chronic inflammation and oxidative degeneration of body cells or tissues or uncontrolled cell proliferation.
US08337855B2	Anti-CD33 antibodies and methods for treatment of acute myeloid leukemia using the same The present invention relates to antibodies that bind CD33. More particularly, the invention relates to anti-CD33 antibodies, fragments and homologues of these antibodies, humanized and resurfaced versions of these antibodies, functional equivalents and improved versions of these antibodies, immunoconjugates and compositions comprising these antibodies, and the uses of same in diagnostic, research and therapeutic applications. The invention also relates to a polynucleotide encoding these antibodies, vectors comprising the polynucleotides, host cells transformed with polynucleotides and methods of producing these antibodies.
US08337852B2	Anti-C5aR antibodies with improved properties The present invention relates to improved antibodies which bind to C5aR and which are useful in diagnosis and therapeutic methods.
US08337851B2	Methods of monitoring the efficacy of anti-CD40 antibodies in treating a subject for a CD40-expressing cancer Methods for identifying subjects having a cancer or pre-malignant condition that will benefit from anti-CD40 therapeutic agents that modulate CD40L-mediated CD40 signaling are provided. The methods comprise the use of biomarkers of cellular apoptosis, cell proliferation and survival, and CD40 signaling pathways to monitor ex vivo response to one or more anti-CD40 therapeutic agents of interest that modulate CD40 signaling on CD40-expressing neoplastic cells. The ex vivo prognostic assays can be used alone or in conjunction with other prognostic assays to identify candidate subjects who will benefit from treatment with anti-CD40 therapeutic agents. Methods of the invention also comprise the use of these biomarkers to monitor in vivo efficacy of treatment with an anti-CD40 therapeutic agent.
US08337847B2	Methods of treating anemia using anti-IL-6 antibodies The invention provides methods of treating anemia in patients in need thereof, particularly in patients having anemia associated with chronic and/or inflammatory conditions such as cancers and arthritic conditions by administering antibodies or antibody fragments that bind IL-6. The treatment methods result in increased hemoglobin.
US08337845B2	A-beta binding polypeptides The invention relates to biparatopic A-beta binding polypeptides and, more specifically, to biparatopic A-beta binding polypeptides comprising at least two immunoglobulin single variable domains binding to different epitopes of A-beta. The invention also relates to specific sequences of such polypeptides, methods of their production, and methods of using them, including methods of treatment of diseases such as Alzheimer's Disease.
US08337844B2	CD20-binding polypeptide compositions for treating autoimmune disease A method of treating an autoimmune disease comprising administering to a patient a therapeutically effective amount of a CD20-binding polypeptide composition comprising a combination of a modified heavy chain variable region polypeptide and a modified light chain variable region polypeptide. The combination can be (a) a modified 2B8 antibody heavy chain variable region polypeptide of SEQ ID NO: 48; and a modified 2B8 antibody light chain variable region polypeptide of SEQ ID NO: 49; or (b) a modified Leu16 antibody heavy chain variable region polypeptide of SEQ ID NO: 50; and a modified Leu16 antibody light chain variable region polypeptide of SEQ ID NO: 51.
US08337838B2	Anti-CD70 antibody and its use for the treatment and prevention of cancer and immune disorders Disclosed are CD70 binding agents, such as anti-CD70 antibodies and derivatives, that induce a cytotoxic, cytostatic or immunomodulatory without conjugation to a therapeutic agents as well as pharmaceutical compositions and kits comprising the antibody or derivative. Also disclosed are methods for the treatment and prevention of CD70-expressing cancers and immunological disorders comprising administering the CD70 binding agents to a subject.
US08337837B2	Stable enzymatic preparations and methods of use thereof The present invention relates to stable concentrated enzymatic compositions suitable for storage under ambient conditions, while maintaining their intended enzymatic activity. The invention further relate to kits comprising concentrated enzymatic compositions, methods for preparing debriding solutions from said concentrated enzymatic compositions and methods of using the diluted debriding solutions.
US08337832B2	Vaccine for protection against Shigella sonnei disease Compositions and methods for protecting a susceptible host against an infection of Shigella sonnei are disclosed. Such compositions and methods are useful for protecting the host against bacillary dysentery and shigellosis.
US08337831B2	Live, oral vaccine for protection against Shigella dysenteriae serotype 1 The invention relates to Salmonella typhi Ty21a comprising core-linked Shigella dysenteriae serotype 1 O-specific polysaccharide (O-Ps) and DNA encoding O antigen biosynthesis, said DNA selected from the group consisting of: a) the DNA sequence set out in any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1 and 2 and species homologs thereof; b) DNA encoding Shigella dysenteriae serotype 1 polypeptides encoded by any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1 and 2, and species homologs thereof; and c) DNA encoding a O antigen biosynthesis gene product that hybridizes under moderately stringent conditions to the DNA of (a) or (b); and related sequences, compositions of matter, vaccines, methods of using, and methods of making.
US08337825B2	Glycosaminoglycan-antagonising MCP-1 mutants Novel mutants of human monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) with increased glycosaminoglycan (GAG) binding affinity and knocked-out or reduced GPCR activity compared to wild type MCP-1, and their use for therapeutic treatment of inflammatory diseases.
US08337821B2	Composition for treatment of hyperhidrosis A composition for treatment of hyperhidrosis is provided that contains an effective amount of an antiperspirant. In particular, one embodiment of the composition of the present invention includes an antiperspirant, at least one muscle relaxing agent, at least one peptide, and at least one botanical agent and the composition is applied to a substrate. In another non-limiting illustration, the composition includes from about 0.001 to 50.0 vol % aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex glycine and more preferably 19.0 vol %, glycerin, dipeptide diaminobutyroyl benzylamide diacetate, gamma amino butyric acid, solanum lycopersicum (tomato) extract, gynostemma pentaphyllum extract, panax ginseng root extract, portulaca oleracea extract, butylene glycol, denatured alcohol, and water.
US08337817B2	Preparation for transnasal application Disclosed is a preparation for transnasal application, which has improved fluidability. Specifically disclosed is a preparation for transnasal application, which comprises at least a complex comprising: a fluidability-improving component comprising a first crystalline cellulose (A) having specified powder properties, tricalcium phosphate (B) having specified powder properties, and a second crystalline cellulose (C) having specified powder properties or a starch (D) having specified powder properties; and a physiologically active substance.
US08337816B2	Dry powder medicament formulations A dry powder pharmaceutical composition comprising (i) a medicament particle fraction comprising medicament particles with an aerodynamic diameter no greater than 10 μm; and (ii) at least 50% of a non-respirable excipient fraction comprising low density excipient particles with an aerodynamic diameter greater than 10 μm and a geometric diameter greater than 30 μm. In additional embodiments of the invention, the pharmaceutical composition includes a respirable excipient fraction comprising excipient particles with an aerodynamic diameter no greater than 10 μm. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the non-respirable excipient particles include pores adapted to receive a portion of the respirable excipient fraction and/or the medicament fraction.
US08337815B2	Pulmonary surfactant formulations Synthetic pulmonary surfactant compositions comprising dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylglycerol, and essentially neutral lipid, and having essentially no 1-palmitoyl 2-oleoyl phosphatidylglycerol and essentially no palmitic acid are provided. Methods for treating respiratory disease are also provided comprising administering a therapeutically effective amount of a synthetic pulmonary surfactant comprising dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylglycerol, and essentially neutral lipid, and having essentially no 1-palmitoyl 2-oleoyl phosphatidylglycerol and essentially no palmitic acid.
US08337813B2	Contrast agents The present invention relates generally to multimodal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents. In particular, the present invention provides a MRI contrast agent configured to manipulate both the longitudinal (T1) and transverse (T2) relaxation times of surrounding water proton spins.
US08337811B1	Pharmaceutical composition of nanoparticles The invention discloses a pharmaceutical composition of bioactive nanoparticles composed of chitosan, poly-glutamic acid, and a bioactive agent for oral delivery. The chitosan-based nanoparticles are characterized with a positive surface charge and enhanced permeability for oral drug delivery.
US08337810B2	Stabilized compositions and methods for radiolabeling pharmaceuticals with alpha-particle emitters Oxidants (e.g., N-chlorosuccinimide) can be used to stabilize α-particle emitters (e.g., 211 At) in solution, prior to their subsequent reaction to form α-particle emitter labeled compounds (e.g., a radiolabeled pharmaceutical or a radiolabeled pre-cursor used to prepare it). In particular, the use of an oxidant has been found to maintain the α-particle emitter in a chemical form that facilitates this reaction, which may involve a number of possible mechanisms including electrophilic substitution, nucleophilic substitution, complexation, exchange, or metallic bonding. Compounds labeled with α-particle emitters in this manner have wide-ranging therapeutic applications, particularly in the treatment of cancer.
US08337806B2	Hydrogen producing fuel for power generator A hydrogen producing fuel comprises a chemical hydride and metal hydride. In one embodiment the chemical hydride evolves hydrogen spontaneously upon exposure to water vapor, and the metal hydride reversibly absorbs/desorbs hydrogen based on temperature and pressure. The hydrogen producing substance may be formed in the shape of a pellet and may be contained within a hydrogen and water vapor permeable, liquid water impermeable membrane. The hydrogen producing substance may further be soaked in a hydrophobic material.
US08337804B2	Synthesis of nanoparticles comprising metal (III) vanadate The present invention relates to a method for the production of nanoparticulate metal(III) vanadates or vanadate/phosophate mixed crystals, comprising the reaction in a reaction medium of a reactive vanadate source and optionally a phosphate source dissolvable or dispersible in the reaction medium and of a reactive metal(III) salt dissolvable or dispersible in the reaction medium under heating, wherein the reaction medium contains water and a polyol in a volume ratio of 20/80 to 90/10, and the particles thereby obtained. The synthesis provides a high yield of metal(III) vanadate or vanadate/phosphate having a narrow particle size distribution. Doped embodiments thereof are distinguished by excellent luminescence properties.
US08337803B2	Additives for removal of metals poisonous to catalysts during fluidized catalytic cracking of hydrocarbons Compositions and methods suitable for removing poisonous metals from hydrocarbons are provided. The compositions comprise hydrotalcite having one or more trapping metals dispersed on the outer surface thereof.
US08337800B2	Filmy graphite and process for producing the same A process for producing a filmy graphite includes the steps of forming a polyimide film having a birefringence of 0.12 or more and heat-treating the polyimide film at 2,400° C. or higher.
US08337796B2	Process for removing hydrogen cyanide from ethanedinitrile Process for removing hydrogen cyanide from ethanedinitrile by contacting hydrogen cyanide-containing ethanedinitrile with an organic reagent under formation of a covalent bond.
US08337791B2	Exhaust gas purification catalyst, exhaust gas purification apparatus using the same and exhaust gas purification method An exhaust gas purification catalyst, which is suitable as a three way catalyst for efficiently purifying carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), and nitrogen oxides (NOx) in exhaust gas discharged from a gasoline automobile and exhaust gas purification apparatus using the same and an exhaust gas purification method. A catalyst composition having an activated metal (A), a heat resistant inorganic oxide (B) and a cerium-zirconium-type composite oxide (C) containing a pyrochlore phase in a crystal structure, wherein the activated metal (A) is rhodium. A catalyst composition having an activated metal (A), a heat resistant inorganic oxide (B) and a cerium-containing oxide (C′) having a cubic crystal and/or tetragonal crystal structure as a major crystal structure, wherein the activated metal (A) is palladium, or palladium and platinum.
US08337788B2	Method for preparing a colloidal zirconia solution A method for preparing a colloidal solution of non-aggregated zirconia particles, comprising the following steps: a) providing a zirconium hydroxide sol, b) adding to said sol an inorganic acid according to an [inorganic acid]/[Zr] molar ratio of <0.5, c) performing the hydrothermal treatment of said sol, and d) recovering the colloidal solution of zirconia particles.
US08337785B2	Substance and a device A device (1) for housing a scientific sample comprising at least one sample well (2) and an on-board buffering substance (3) wherein the onboard buffering substance (3) at least partly surrounds the sample well (2). The on-board buffering substance (3) may be in the form of a matrix, such as a gel-like matrix. The device (1) may further comprise an insulating means. Also described is a substance for use in culturing and/or assaying a sample whereby the substance provides atmospheric and thermal buffering. The invention further provides a lid for a single-well or multi-well sample plate, the lid being configured to facilitate delivery of a sample through the lid into a well, and for sealing the well. The lid comprises moveable portions (52, 53) that have at least one orifice (54, 57) formed through the moveable portions (52, 53) such that a conduit is formed by alignment of the orifices (54, 57) of both the lid portions (52, 53).
US08337784B2	Use of autologous sediment from fluid aspirates as vehicles for drug delivery A centrifuge tube apparatus for centrifuging a sample collected in a syringe, the apparatus comprising: a syringe comprising at one end a narrowed outlet and means for connection to a needle and at the opposing end a partially inserted syringe plunger; and a syringe holder having an interior for accepting the syringe, wherein the interior comprises at least one ledge for resting the syringe in an inverted position within the holder to prevent further insertion of the plunger during centrifugation, further wherein the syringe holder is sized for insertion in a centrifuge rotor.
US08337782B2	Coupling system for use with fluid displacement apparatus A magnetic coupling system may be used in a fluid displacement apparatus to magnetically couple a drive shaft to a piston. The magnetic coupling system may include first and second magnetic couplers at the ends of the drive shaft and piston, respectively. The first magnetic coupler and second magnetic coupler may be configured to exert an attractive force. A bearing between the magnetic couplers reduces friction and side loading.
US08337780B2	Apparatus for demineralizing osteoinductive bone The invention is directed to an apparatus for producing demineralized osteoinductive bone. The apparatus demineralizes bone by subjecting bone, including, for example, ground bone, bone cubes, chips, strips, or essentially intact bone, to either a rapid high volume pulsatile acidification wave process or to a rapid continuous acid demineralization process. The pulsatile acidification wave process includes subjecting bone to two or more rapid pulse/drain cycles in which one or more demineralizing acids is rapidly pulsed into a vessel containing bone, and after a desired period of time, is rapidly drained from the vessel. The continuous acid demineralization process includes subjecting bone to a continuous exchange of demineralizing acid solution in which the demineralizing acid solution is recirculated from the container holding the bone through an ion exchange media. Calcium and phosphate are thereby removed from the bone to produce a regenerated acid, and the regenerated acid is returned to the container holding the bone. Both processes allow bone to be rapidly demineralized to a precise and specific desired residual calcium level without sacrificing osteoinductivity.
US08337774B2	Compositions for simultaneous detection of volatile sulfur compounds and polyamines Disclosed are compositions and methods useful for the rapid and facile simultaneous detection of malodorous bacterial metabolites in samples of expired breath and other fluids. The invention enables estimation, by simple visual inspection and comparison against standards, of the concentration of polyamines and volatile sulfur compounds in the micromolar to millimolar range.
US08337771B2	Packaging material sterilizing unit for a pourable food product packaging machine A unit for sterilizing a web of packaging material, the unit having a bath containing a sterilizing agent in which the web is advanced continuously; and an aseptic environment containing sterile air, connected to an outlet of the bath, and housing drying means for removing residual sterilizing agent from the web. The aseptic environment is divided into two regions by a narrow-section channel, along which the web travels, and which is sized to produce a predetermined difference in pressure between the two regions, and so force air into the channel from the higher-pressure region to the lower-pressure region to dry the web.
US08337769B2	Carbon strand radio frequency heating susceptor A method for heating materials by application of radio frequency (“RF”) energy is disclosed. For example, the disclosure concerns a method and apparatus for RF heating of petroleum ore, such as bitumen, oil sands, oil shale, tar sands, or heavy oil. Petroleum ore is mixed with a substance comprising mini-dipole susceptors such as carbon strands. A source is provided which applies RF energy to the mixture of a power and frequency sufficient to heat the mini-dipole susceptors. The RF energy is applied for a sufficient time to allow the mini-dipole susceptors to heat the mixture to an average temperature greater than about 212° F. (100° C.). Optionally, the mini-dipole susceptors can be removed after the desired average temperature has been achieved. The susceptors may provide advantages for the RF heating of hydrocarbons, such as higher temperatures (sufficient for distillation or pyrolysis), anhydrous processing, and greater speed or efficiency.
US08337767B2	Ozone generating apparatus An ozone generating apparatus having high reliability in which a glass tube can prevent from being damaged by melting a power feeding brush even if a large amount of short-circuit current flows. In an ozone generating apparatus using silent discharge, an alternating high voltage power is supplied from a power supply to a metal film formed in an inner wall of a glass tube by a power feeding brush comprising a brush shaft made of metal and a large number of metal thin wires fixed to the periphery of the brush shaft, the following equation satisfies. (D2/D1)≧1/{1+(1/20β)}, wherein ‘D1’ indicates an outer diameter of a bundle of metal thin wires, ‘D2’ indicates an outer diameter of the brush shaft and ‘β’ indicates the line density of metal thin wires on a surface of the brush shaft.
US08337766B2	Method and apparatus for an efficient hydrogen production An apparatus and method for sorting ions in order to produce hydrogen gas from water. A first electric field source is electrically isolated from water by an insulating layer. A first conductive deionization surface is positioned within a field line of said first electric field source. An electric conductor is connected to said first conductive deionization surface and is adapted to discharge charge built up due to attracted ions located on the first conductive deionization surface. Hydrogen is produced on said first conductive deionization surface when said first conductive deionization surface is positioned within the water.
US08337764B2	Recess waveguide microwave chemical plant for production of ethene from natural gas and the process using said plant A recess waveguide microwave chemical plant for production of ethene from natural gas and a process for production of ethene using the plant. The plant includes a recess waveguide, a mode transducer and coupling orifice plate, an adjustable short-circuiting plunger, and a chemical reactor; wherein with the recess waveguide as a main body, the mode transducer and coupling orifice plate is at the left side of the recess waveguide, the adjustable short-circuiting plunger is at the right side of the recess waveguide, and the chemical reactor is across the recess waveguide.
US08337762B2	Substrate having porous sheet(s) for treating exhaust gases of combustion engines The object of the invention is a porous sheet(s) for treating exhaust gases of combustion engines in open channels. According to the invention at least part of the porous sheet has a covering support having pores over 10 nm and coarse particles over 1.4 μm.
US08337756B2	Solidification processing method and solidification processing apparatus For manufacture of solid fuels by solidifying processing-object materials containing plastics, waste paper and waste wood, the processing-object materials inputted through an input port 12 are subjected to water injection so that their water content becomes 15 wt % or more, preferably 20 wt % or more, and then kneaded, compacted and extruded in three turns or less, being extruded from molding nozzles 53 of an end face plate 5. The water injection is performed by a water injection nozzle 31 from the input port 12 into a casing 11. Opening and closing of a solenoid valve 33 interposed on a water injection pipe 32 adjoining the water injection nozzle 31 is controlled based on a signal S1 derived from a temperature sensor 55 provided at a molding nozzle 53 of the end face plate. Such disadvantages as inflammation due to excessively high temperatures of the processing-object materials or worsened shape retention of solidified materials due to excessively low temperatures of the processing-object materials can be prevented.
US08337755B2	Operator independent programmable sample preparation and analysis system The present invention provides a protocol and apparatus for enriching circulating tumor cells and other rare cells from blood, including debris and other components, from samples with high precision and at high throughput rates. This invention discloses an improved processing system from previously described semi-automated sample processing. The system further reduces operator intervention and hands-on time from prior systems. While this system has general utility in processing diverse materials, the system is configured for sample processing of biological specimens to provide an enriched fraction suitable for detection, enumeration and identification of target cells by appropriate analytical methodologies. The presence and quantities of such target cells in a sample specimen can utilized for screening and detection in disease such as cancer, assessing early stage pre-metastatic cancer, monitoring for disease remission in response to therapy and selection of more effective dose regimens or alternative therapies in case of relapse.
US08337753B2	Temperature-controlled incubator having a receptacle mixing mechanism An automated analyzer for performing multiple diagnostic assays simultaneously includes multiple stations, or modules, in which discrete aspects of the assay are performed on fluid samples contained in reaction receptacles. The analyzer includes stations for automatically preparing a specimen sample, incubating the sample at prescribed temperatures for prescribed periods, performing an analyte isolation procedure, and ascertaining the presence of a target analyte. An automated receptacle transporting system moves the reaction receptacles from one station to the next. The analyzer further includes devices for carrying a plurality of specimen tubes and disposable pipette tips in a machine-accessible manner, a device for agitating containers of target capture reagents comprising suspensions of solid support material and for presenting the containers for machine access thereto, and a device for holding containers of reagents in a temperature controlled environment and presenting the containers for machine access thereto. A method for performing an automated diagnostic assay includes an automated process for isolating and amplifying a target analyte. The process is performed by automatically moving each of a plurality of reaction receptacles containing a solid support material and a fluid sample between stations for incubating the contents of the reaction receptacle and for separating the target analyte bound to the solid support from the fluid sample. An amplification reagent is added to the separated analyte after the analyte separation step and before a final incubation step.
US08337748B2	Lean austenitic stainless steel containing stabilizing elements An austenitic stainless steel composition including relatively low nickel and molybdenum levels, and exhibiting corrosion resistance, resistance to elevated temperature deformation, and formability properties comparable to certain alloys including higher nickel and molybdenum levels. Embodiments of the austenitic stainless steel include, in weight %, up to 0.20 C, 2.0-9.0 Mn, up to 2.0 Si, 16.0-23.0 Cr, 1.0-7.0 Ni, up to 3.0 Mo, up to 3.0 Cu, 0.05-0.35 N, up to 4.0 W, (7.5(% C))≦(Nb+Ti+V+Ta+Zr)≦1.5, up to 0.01 B, up to 1.0 Co, iron and impurities. Additionally, embodiments of the steel may include 0.5≦(Mo+W/2)≦5.0 and/or 1.0≦(Ni+Co)≦8.0.
US08337745B2	Integral molten evacuation channel A plastic part is formed with a hollow portion and an integral evacuation channel extending from the hollow portion to a gate at which plastic for the part was injected. During the injection molding process for the part, the channel and portion to be hollowed are filled with molten plastic, and a gas is injected into the portion to be hollowed to force molten material from the portion to be hollowed back through the channel.
US08337740B2	Reinforced internal composite structures A complex-shaped, three-dimensional fiber reinforced composite structure may be formed by using counteracting pressures applied to a structural lay-up of wetted fibers. The wetted fibers are arranged on pressurizable members and may be configured to include internal structural features, such as shear webs. A reinforcement stiffener may be located adjacent to at least one of the pressurizable members and the wetted fibers that form the internal structural feature. The reinforcement stiffener includes a modulus of elasticity that is substantially higher than a modulus of elasticity of the resin used to wet the fibers. In one embodiment, the reinforcement stiffener may be received in a pocket of one of the pressurizable members and may include a releasing agent that permits removal of the stiffener after the composite structure has been pressurized and cured.
US08337735B2	Solder mold plates used in packaging process and method of manufacturing solder mold plates Solder mold plates and methods of manufacturing the solder mold plates are provided herein. The solder mold plates are used in controlled collapse chip connection processes. The solder mold plate includes a plurality of cavities. At least one cavity of the plurality of cavities has a different volume than another of the cavities in a particular chip set site. The method of manufacturing the solder mold plate includes determining susceptible white bump locations on a chip set. The method further includes forming lower volume cavities on the solder mold plate which coincide with the susceptible white bump locations, and forming higher volume cavities on the solder mold plate which coincide with less susceptible white bump locations.
US08337733B2	Preparation of compositions with essentially noncrystalline embedded macrolide antibiotics A description is given of a process for the preparation of a pharmaceutical composition of a macrolide antibiotic in essentially noncrystalline form, in which the macrolide antibiotic, a water-swellable polymer and a proton donor are blended in an extruder in the presence of water and forced through a die, the ratio by weight of the sum of macrolide antibiotic, water-swellable polymer and proton donor to water being at least 1:1. The macrolide antibiotic is preferably clarithromycin and the water-swellable polymer is preferably chosen from crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone, crosslinked sodium carboxymethylcellulose and crosslinked polyacrylic acid.
US08337720B2	Semiconductor nanoparticle capping agents Embodiments of the invention involve semiconductor nanoparticle capping ligands, their production and use. Ligands may have the formula with m ranging from approximately 8 to approximately 45. An embodiment provides a method of forming a compound of the formula including the steps of providing a first starting material comprising poly(ethyleneglycol) and reacting the first starting material with a second starting material comprising a functional group for chelating to the surface of a nanoparticle to thereby form the compound.
US08337719B2	Liquid crystalline polyester and molded article thereof The present invention provides a resin composition containing a liquid crystalline polyester and a high dielectric material filler. The present invention also provides a molded article of the liquid crystalline polyester resin composition. The liquid crystalline polyester resin composition of the present invention comprises 50 to 80% by volume of a liquid crystalline polyester which has 40% by mol or more of a 2,6-naphthalenediyl group as an aromatic group, also has a flow initiation temperature of 280° C. or higher, and shows a melt tension of 1 g or more measured at a temperature higher than flow initiation temperature; and 20 to 50% by volume of a high dielectric material filler. The liquid crystalline polyester resin composition can be formed into composition pellets easily and stably by a strand method, and a molded article obtained from the liquid crystalline polyester resin composition is excellent in flexural strength and dielectric characteristics.
US08337714B2	Ferrite powders for bonded magnet, process for the production of the powders, and bonded magnet made by using the same The present invention provides ferrite powders for bonded magnet capable of suppressing increase of SFD, while widening a particle size distribution for obtaining flowability and compressed density, and also capable of suppressing deterioration of orientation and magnetizability, and provides a process for a production magnetoplumbite-type ferrite powders containing an oxide of at least one or more kinds of transition metals selected from a group consisting of Zr, Ti, Zn, Co, Mn, and Ni, having a mean particle size of 0.20 μm or more and less than 5.00 μm, being the ferrite powders for bonded magnet with the ratio of particles having particle size of 1 μm or less being 20 mass % or more in the magnetoplumbite-type ferrite powder size distribution obtained by a laser diffraction type particle size distribution analyzer.
US08337709B2	Method for treating liquids with wave energy from an electrical arc A method for treating a liquid using an apparatus includes: (a) a pump volute or hydrocyclone head having an inlet and an outlet, (b) a throat having a first opening, a second opening and a central axis, wherein the first opening is connected to the outlet of the pump volute or hydrocyclone head, (c) a tank connected to the second opening of the throat, and (d) a wave energy source having a first electrode within the pump volute or hydrocyclone head that extends through the outlet into the first opening of the throat along the central axis of the throat, and a second electrode within the tank that is spaced apart and axially aligned with first electrode. The method includes the steps of providing the above-described apparatus, supplying the liquid to the inlet of the pump volute or hydrocyclone head, and irradiating the liquid with one or more wave energies produced by the wave energy source.
US08337705B2	Manipulation of magnetic microparticles in a high pressure liquid system and extraction process Described are a device and a method for the manipulation of a liquid sample material in which magnetic microparticles are suspended whereby the microparticles have a functionalized surface and an analyte is bound to the surface. The sample material is introduced into a device with a liquid system through an injection device (50) and in a first mobile phase the sample material is carried to an extractor (90). In a section (97) of the extractor (90) the microparticles are immobilized by means of a magnetic field of a controllable means (96) and separated from the remaining sample material. By switching over of a switching unit (110) a second mobile phase (75) is carried to the extractor (90) and the second mobile phase (75) detaches the adsorbed analyte from the surface of the microparticles. The second mobile phase (75) with the dissolved analyte(s) can be analyzed by way of chromatographic separation (130) and subsequent detection (140).
US08337701B2	Intravenous filter Intravenous fluid filter devices including a filter comprising spaced apart first and second filter elements comprising hydrophilic membranes and providing inside-out flow, and methods of using the devices, are disclosed.
US08337700B1	High capacity biological fluid filtration apparatus A biological fluid filtration device, system, and method, for filtering a biological fluid, the device comprising a housing having an inlet, a first outlet and a second outlet, with a first fluid flow path defined between the inlet and the first outlet, with a second fluid flow path defined between the inlet and the second outlet, with a first biological fluid filtration media interposed between the inlet and the first outlet and across the first fluid flow path, with a second biological fluid filtration media interposed between the inlet and the second outlet and across the second fluid flow path, the housing essentially lacking a solid partition wall between the first biological fluid filtration media and the second biological fluid filtration media, a first flow restriction may be added downstream of the first biological fluid filtration media, and a second flow restriction may be added downstream of the second biological fluid filtration media, in another embodiment, the device comprises a housing having an inlet an outlet with a flow path defined between the inlet and the outlet, with a biological fluid filtration media interposed between the inlet and the outlet and across the fluid flow path, the device further including a flow restriction downstream of the biological fluid filtration media.
US08337699B2	Reactor inlet The invention relates to a reactor for anaerobically purifying waster water, especially waste water from the paper industry, comprising a reactor vessel, several inlets arranged in the bottom region of the reactor vessel to feed waste water to be purified into the reactor, at least one outlet for discharging purified water, and at least one sediment drain. One or more inlets are fed by a supply pipe, and several supply pipes are fed by a collecting supply pipe. In order to ensure that waste water to be purified is fed as regularly as possible at the bottom of the reactor vessel, at least the majority of the supply pipes of a collecting supply pipe supply waste water to be purified to a maximum of 10 inlets, and at least the majority of said supply pipes each have a control valve.
US08337697B2	Multi-compartment water purification bottle having a replaceable filter A bottle comprises a cap, a reservoir having an open top closeable by the cap, and a filter holder that houses a filter, the filter holder being coupled to the cap such that a liquid in the reservoir is filtered by the filter as the liquid is being consumed, and the filter is fluidly decoupled from the reservoir when the cap is disengaged from the reservoir. Preferred filters can be constructed out of high reactivity carbon mixture, activated carbon, iodinated resin, combinations thereof, or any other suitable compositions for filtering water or other liquids, and can be molded into any suitable size and shape. Preferred filter holder can have a top portion and a bottom portion that couple together via a snap fitting, mating threads, or any suitable means, which allow access to the filter, and which have numerous vents that allow liquid to freely flow through the filter.
US08337696B2	Method for making a bag filter housing A spinning method for making a seamless filter housing 50 with an elliptical bottom 52 and a bottom opening 58 for a drain port. An inlet port 62 is added after fabrication along with any optional sensor ports 64. The seamless filter housing 50 made with this process.
US08337688B2	Metal plating compositions Disclosed are metal plating compositions for plating a metal on a substrate. The metal plating compositions include compounds which influence the leveling and throwing performance of the metal plating compositions. Also disclosed are methods of depositing metals on a substrate.
US08337685B2	Serum components that bind to threat agents Low molecular weight serum components (less than 10,000 m.w.), in vaccinated animals and a human subject who has been exposed to a threat agent inadvertently, bound to purified O-polysaccharide (OPS, a polymer of formamido-mannose) and a candidate of a threat agent, such as Brucella suis 145 vaccine is disclosed. These components formed a loose reversible precipitin with OPS in a high-salt borate-buffered agarose gel and bound to the candidate vaccine as observed by capillary electrophoresis. By using modified capillary electrophoresis, the invention also discloses the presence of two larger serum components, one similar in size to that of serum albumin and one resembles that of mannan-binding lectin, that bound to the vaccine. An indirect method for identifying vaccination is the presence of antibodies against Brucella-OPS-antibodies. ELISA, capillary electrophoresis and animal challenge studies showed that as high as 30% of the control animals did not require vaccination. These animals could have been exposed to cross-reactive cross-protective antigens naturally.
US08337682B2	Arc plasma source An arc plasma source 101 for evaporating a cathode material of a cathode 22 by arc discharge controlled by a magnetic field, comprising a magnetic field forming mechanism 42 arranged outside the cathode for forming a magnetic field M in parallel to the center axis of the cathode near an evaporation surface 22a; a supporting mechanism 26 for supporting the cathode; a cooling mechanism 61 for cooling the cathode; and a tapered ring 64 being truncated cone shaped and having a through-hole into which the cathode penetrates along the axial direction of the through-hole, the tapered ring being arranged to be tapered toward the evaporation surface of the cathode; wherein the tapered ring is made of a ferromagnetic material and the front end of the tapered ring is positioned coplanar with the evaporation surface of the cathode or is positioned posterior to the evaporation surface in use.
US08337670B2	Felt for papermaking A felt (10) for papermaking according to the present invention has a batt fiber layer comprising batt fibers contained in and integrally combined with a high-polymer elastic material (50). The batt fiber layer contained in the high-polymer elastic material (50) includes hydrophilic 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidone. The felt (10) for papermaking exhibits a hydrophilic capability as a felt structure from an initial phase of use. The felt has a sustained ability to be compressed and recovered for a long period of time and maintains water squeezing function, a wet paper web smoothing function, and a wet paper web feeding function until the end of the period in which the felt is used.
US08337669B2	Apparatus for washing and dewatering pulp Apparatus for washing and dewatering pulp comprising rotatable press rolls including permeable outer surfaces and a casing comprising a vat in which the rolls are installed are disclosed. A feed for feeding the pulp through the gap between the vat and the outer surfaces of the press rolls is provided and the vat includes a vat segment providing at least one compartment between the vat segment and the casing, the at least one compartment extending along the longitudinal extension of one of the first and second rotatable press rolls and a pressure device to maintain the pressure in the at least one compartment corresponding to the pressure in the gap.
US08337661B2	Plasma reactor with plasma load impedance tuning for engineered transients by synchronized modulation of an unmatched low power RF generator A plasma reactor for processing a workpiece such as a semiconductor wafer using predetermined transients of plasma bias power or plasma source power has unmatched low power RF generators synchronized to the transients to minimize transient-induced changes in plasma characteristics.
US08337658B2	Manufacturing method for composite material structural component for aircraft and its structural component A method for manufacturing a structural component includes a first step of attaching at least one conductive member to a surface of a base material made of a composite material and a second step of forming the base material by conducting electricity to part or the whole of the conductive member to generate heat and/or making an assembly of the structural component by conducting electricity to part or the whole of the conductive member to generate heat. Part or the whole of the conductive member contained in the structural component produced in the first and second steps serves as a member giving to the aircraft at least one of a lightning strike protection function, an anti-icing and deicing function and an electromagnetic interference shielding function.
US08337655B2	Process for producing multilayer printed wiring board A production method of a multi-layer printed wiring board containing the following steps (1)-(5): (1) a temporary fitting preparatory step including conveying an adhesive sheet from an adhesive sheet roll wherein an adhesive sheet having a prepreg formed on a support film is wound in a roll and placing the adhesive sheet such that a prepreg surface contacts one or both of the surfaces of a circuit board, (2) a temporary fitting step for temporarily fitting the adhesive sheet to the circuit board, including partially adhering the adhesive sheet to the circuit board by heating and pressing a part of the adhesive sheet from the support film side, and cutting the adhesive sheet according to the size of the circuit board with a cutter, (3) a laminating step including heating and pressing the temporarily fitted adhesive sheet under reduced pressure to laminate the adhesive sheet on the circuit board, (4) a thermal curing step including forming an insulating layer by thermally curing the prepreg, and (5) a detaching step including detaching the support film after the thermal curing step, enables continuous production of an insulating layer of a multi-layer printed wiring board with a prepreg and without using a single wafer.
US08337647B1	Tufted goods manufacturing method and operational apparatus The processes of tufting, spraying coating on backing, and setting yarn been provided in a preferred embodiment as a part of a continuous process. The coating is preferably anhydrous with a tack free time of less than two minutes. The yarn setting station employed in many embodiment sets the yarn in a distance of less than about ten feet by injecting air into the yarn side of the tufted goods, preferably with an air knife while the yarns are spread apart.
US08337646B2	Greensheet via repair/fill tool A method and apparatus are provided for filling vias in a product greensheet and/or repairing vias in a product greensheet. The method and apparatus utilize a transfer greensheet having filled vias in a fixed array, which vias are punched into the product greensheet to either repair or fill the via of the product greensheet. The method and apparatus employ position determining means such as a camera, a punch head and a corresponding punch die and an activating means to activate the punch head to punch the transfer greensheet via to fill the product greensheet via. The transfer greensheet has a fixed array of filled vias and a transfer greensheet station employs a fixed plate having a plurality of vacuum ports positioned in the non-via areas of the transfer greensheet which secures the transfer greensheet during the method. The product greensheet is held by a vacuum plate.
US08337644B2	Aluminum alloy An aluminum alloy, comprising magnesium 4.5 to 6.5% by weight, silicon 1.0 to 3.0% by weight, manganese 0.3 to 1.0% by weight, chromium 0.02 to 0.3% by weight, titanium 0.02 to 0.2 % by weight, zirconium 0.02 to 0.2% by weight, one or more rare earth metals 0.0050 to 1.6% by weight, iron max. 0.2% by weight, and the remainder aluminum.
US08337639B2	Die reinforcing method and die repairing method A mixed powder layer is applied by coating to a cavity of a forging die made of an Fe-base alloy, at least to the region of the cavity to be reinforced or repaired, the mixed powder layer comprising the first element powder capable of being converted into a carbide to enhance the hardness of the forging die and the second element powder having a melting point lower than that of the first element powder. Die reinforcing is carried out by forging a work by using a forging die covered with the mixed powder layer and heat-treating the die by utilizing the working heat generated in the forging to thereby make the layer reflow and diffuse the carbide in the die.
US08337633B2	Water-powered hand-washing method A hand-washing system for washing fingernail beds and cuticular regions of human fingers and thumbs (collectively “digits”). The hand-washing system includes a work enclosure for containing ones of the digits and a high-velocity, high-flow water spray during a washing operation. The work enclosure defines an interior space, part of which defines an energy-dissipation region that, during use, provides a water reservoir for dissipating energy in the high-velocity, high flow water spray. The work enclosure includes a high-energy spray nozzle and a digit portal sized to receive the four fingers of one hand simultaneously in closed-fingered, upwardly-curled configuration. A mixing valve may be provided to allow a user to adjust the temperature of the water during washing. A quick-disconnect fluid-coupling assembly may also be provided and be used to quickly select between work enclosures of differing size.
US08337632B2	Apparatus and method for cleaning an electric hair-cutting device, and kit including such an apparatus A cleaning apparatus for cleaning a hair-cutting portion of an electric hair-cutting device includes a cleaning-liquid basin for receiving the hair-cutting portion of the electric hair-cutting device in a central area such that the hair-cutting portion is at least partially immersed in the cleaning liquid. The electric hair-cutting device is cleaned by generating a cleaning-liquid flow revolving within the basin around the central area of the basin, the hair-cutting portion being at least partially immersed in the cleaning liquid. The liquid flow effectively entrains debris away from the hair-cutting portion.
US08337631B2	Dishwasher with separate sump for concentrated fluid supply A dishwasher includes a main sump that holds the main wash fluid supply, and a separate sump formed in the bottom wall of the tub away from the main sump. The separate sump holds a concentrated wash fluid supply. The separate sump supplies wash fluid for washing periods in which a highly concentrated chemistry mixture is desired.
US08337630B2	Method for cleaning the compressor of a gas turbine engine There is provided a method for cleaning the compressor of a gas turbine engine. The method comprises providing a fluid passage in the inlet case strut with a nozzle communicating with the fluid passage and the inlet gas path. The fluid passage has a fluid connector for connecting wash/rinse fluid under pressure to the fluid passage. The method further comprises motoring the gas turbine engine, and injecting, through the nozzle, the wash/rinse fluid into the inlet gas path to mix with an incoming flow of air and flow into compressor rotor blades of the compressor.
US08337629B2	Method for cleaning elements in vacuum chamber and apparatus for processing substrates To clean an element in a vacuum chamber by causing particles sticking to the element to scatter, the present invention uses a means for applying a voltage to the element and causing the particles to scatter by utilizing Maxwell's stress, a means for electrically charging the particles and causing the particles to scatter by utilizing the Coulomb force, a means for introducing a gas into the vacuum chamber and causing the particles sticking to the element to scatter by causing a gas shock wave to hit the element, a means for heating the element and causing the particles to scatter by utilizing the thermal stress and thermophoretic force, or a means for causing the particles to scatter by applying mechanical vibrations to the element. The thus scattered particles are removed by carrying them in a gas flow in a relatively high pressure atmosphere.
US08337627B2	Cleaning exhaust screens in a manufacturing process A method of cleaning an screen in a manufacturing process step that employs a chamber including a drain line having a screen configured and disposed in the chamber above the drain line to trap soluble materials includes detecting a build-up of soluble material on the screen, ceasing a work operation in the chamber, and initiating a screen cleaning operation. The screen cleaning operation includes closing a computer operated valve fluidly connected to the drain line to fluidly isolate a portion of the chamber, automatically introducing an amount of solvent into the chamber once the computer operated valve is closed with the amount of solvent filling the chamber and/or the drain line to fully immerse the screen, and opening the operated valve after a predetermined amount of time to empty the chamber and the drain line of solvent once the soluble materials trapped on the screen are dissolved.
US08337626B2	Method for removal of beryllium contamination from an article A method of removal of beryllium contamination from an article is disclosed. The method typically involves dissolving polyisobutylene in a solvent such as hexane to form a tackifier solution, soaking the substrate in the tackifier to produce a preform, and then drying the preform to produce the cleaning medium. The cleaning media are typically used dry, without any liquid cleaning agent to rub the surface of the article and remove the beryllium contamination below a non-detect level. In some embodiments no detectible residue is transferred from the cleaning wipe to the article as a result of the cleaning process.
US08337625B2	Escalator step cleaner An escalator step cleaner for cleaning escalator steps having a plurality of parallel tread ridges separated by tread grooves has a cleaning pad assembly configured to extend generally perpendicular to the direction of motion of the escalator steps and clean the escalator steps while the escalator is in motion. The cleaning pad assembly has a rigid upper plate and a flexible disposable bottom pad having a cleaning contact surface. The contact surface carries a plurality of spaced parallel pad ridges separated by pad grooves that matingly engage between the tread ridges of the escalator steps and cause dislodgement of the accumulated debris. The cleaning pad assembly can be secured on a hand-held cleaning tool or on a motorized cleaning tool with rotating brushes and a vacuum.
US08337623B2	Methods for plasma cleaning an internal peripheral region of a plasma processing chamber Methods for operating a plasma processing chamber for a cleaning operation of an internal region of the plasma processing chamber are disclosed. The method is performed when a semiconductor wafer is not present in the plasma processing chamber. The plasma processing chamber has a bottom electrode assembly that includes an inner bottom electrode and an outer bottom electrode, and the inner bottom electrode and outer bottom electrode are electrically isolated by a dielectric ring. The method includes configuring the inner bottom electrode to be set at a floating potential and supplying a process gas into the plasma processing chamber. And, supplying RF power to the outer bottom electrode. The supplying of RF power to the outer bottom electrode is conducted while maintaining the inner bottom electrode at the floating potential and is isolated by the dielectric ring. The RF power produces a plasma that is generated substantially outside of the inner bottom electrode and over the outer bottom electrode. The inner bottom electrode defines a region for holding the semiconductor wafer.
US08337620B2	Crucible having a monitor system and a cover with a slot which receives light for illuminating coating material An apparatus for processing coating material includes a crucible having a receptacle for receiving coating material, a drive member having a drive shaft, a cover coupled to the drive shaft, and a monitor system including a light source and a camera module. The cover includes a flat surface, a slot defined in the flat surface, a first through hole and a second through hole respectively communicating with opposite ends of the slot. The drive shaft drives the cover to rotate between a closed position where the cover covers the receptacle, and the flat surface presses and flattens the coating material, and an open position where the cover is moved away from the receptacle. The light source is for emitting light through the first through hole to illuminate the coating material. The camera module is for capturing images of the illuminated coating material through the second through hole.
US08337617B2	Manufacturing method and manufacturing apparatus of a group III nitride crystal A method for manufacturing a group III nitride crystal on a seed crystal in a holding vessel holding therein a melt containing a group III metal, an alkali metal and nitrogen. The manufacturing method comprises the steps of causing the seed crystal to make a contact with the melt, setting an environment of the seed crystal to a first state offset from a crystal growth condition while in a state in which said seed crystal is in contact with the melt, increasing a nitrogen concentration in the melt, and setting the environment of the seed crystal to a second state suitable for crystal growth when the nitrogen concentration of the melt has reached a concentration suitable for growing the seed crystal.
US08337616B2	Apparatus and method for producing single crystal A single-crystal manufacturing apparatus comprises a chamber, a crucible in the chamber, a heater arranged around the crucible, a lifting mechanism for lifting a seed crystal, and a guide passage for the seed crystal and a grown single crystal. In the single-crystal manufacturing apparatus, a material polycrystal contained the crucible is melted by a heater, and the seed crystal is made to contact the molten polycrystal and is lifted. The single-crystal manufacturing apparatus comprises a cylindrical quartz tube having a curved bottom portion, and a dome-shaped quartz plate. The curved bottom portion faces the crucible from the upper portion of the chamber through the guide passage. The quartz plate is arranged to enclose the quartz tube. The quartz tube has a reflecting structure for reflecting a heat ray from at least its bottom portion whereas the quartz plate has a reflecting structure for reflecting the heat ray to the crucible.
US08337615B2	Method for producing a monocrystalline Si wafer having an approximately polygonal cross-section and corresponding monocrystalline Si wafer A method of making a single-crystalline Si wafer with an approximately polygonal cross section and having a material property that is the same as a zone-pulled Si crystal, and the single-crystalline Si wafer. The method includes pulling at least one bottle neck of a crystal vertically downwards from a rotating hanging melt drop. The rotational speed of the crystal is reduced to between 0 and less than 1 rpm. In a crystal-growth phase, a Si single crystal ingot is pulled vertically downwards with an approximately polygonal cross section. An inductor is used to generate a temperature profile at a growth phase boundary of the crystal that corresponds to the shape of a cross section of the pulled Si single crystal ingot. The growth is ended at a desired pulling length and the Si single crystal ingot is cut into wafers having an approximately polygonal cross section.
US08337613B2	Slagging coal combustor for cementitious slag production, metal oxide reduction, shale gas and oil recovery, enviromental remediation, emission control and CO2 sequestration Systems, methods and processes teach by specific examples how the cost of sequestering carbon dioxide (CO2) can be totally offset and turned into profits during coal powered electricity generation from revenue and co-benefits. The process is provided whereby fly ash-carbon mixtures, or de-volatilized coal char, or anthracite coal culm is co-fired in an air-cooled, slagging combustor with limestone or similar slag fluxing materials converts the ash into cementitious slag with properties similar to ground granulated blast furnace slag.
US08337610B2	Dispersion of near infrared absorbing pigments and method of making the same A pigment dispersion containing milled particles of near infrared (NIR) absorbing pigment and an anionic surfactant of asymmetric structure as dispersant for the pigment, and a milling method for making the same are disclosed.
US08337608B2	Soy ester based multi-purpose solvent A multi-purpose solvent includes a soy ester material and includes less than 25 Grams Per Liter (GPL) of Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) rating which permits the multi-purpose solvent to be used for cleaning in government regulated areas. The desire to reduce VOCs is well recognized. The multi-purpose solvent of the present invention performs as well as known cleaning products (for example, xylene or MEK) having greater than 25 grams per liter VOC products. Further, the multi-purpose solvent according to the present invention has less than one tenth of the hazardous ingredients present in the other multi-purpose solvents. The multi-purpose solvent is suitable for reducing water and oil based coatings and material and may be used as a cleaner or thinner.
US08337602B2	Deodorizing device and kit, and methods for odor removal A deodorizing device is provided featuring a collection mouthpiece having an intake port and an internal channel, and a pump unit attachable to the collection mouthpiece and operable to draw malodorous air into the intake port and through the internal channel when the collection mouthpiece is attached to the pump unit. Also provided are a pump unit, a filter cartridge, a mount, and methods of assembling and using the same.
US08337600B2	Electrostatic precipitator An electrostatic precipitator for removing solid and liquid components from an aerosol includes a precipitator housing having a raw gas inlet for an aerosol to be cleaned, a clean gas outlet for cleaned aerosol, and at least one aerosol supply channel flange-mounted to the raw gas inlet, a drain device for solid and liquid components that are separated from the aerosol, an ionization stage externally powered via a high-voltage bushing and including at least one metallic high-voltage rod that extends into a flow path of the aerosol and to which high voltage is applyable, and a collector stage disposed in the flow path downstream of the ionization stage.
US08337596B2	Polyalkyleneacrylamide salt for acid gas scrubbing process Hydrocarbyl substituted and unsubstituted polyethylene imines and polyacrylamide salts are absorption compositions and are useful in processes for the treatment of acid gas mixtures.
US08337591B2	Mesh-adjustable molecular sieve A metal-organic framework-based mesh-adjustable molecular sieve (MAMS) exhibiting a temperature-dependent mesh size. The MAMS comprises a plurality of metal clusters bound with a plurality of amphiphilic ligands, each ligand comprising a hydrophobic moiety and a functionalized hydrophilic moiety, and wherein the metal clusters and amphiphilic ligand functionalized hydrophilic moieties form a metal cluster layer, the metal cluster layer forming at least one hydrophilic pore. On each side of the metal cluster layer, a plurality of associated amphiphilic ligand hydrophobic moieties cooperate with the metal cluster layer to form a tri-layer and a plurality of tri-layers are packed in a facing-spaced apart relationship to form at least one hydrophobic pore.
US08337590B2	Device for drying a gas, in particular air, application thereof to a device, and method for collecting a gas sample The invention relates to a device for drying a gas, in particular air, that comprises at least one chamber (5) with an inlet (5a) for the flow of gas to be treated and an outlet (5b) for the flow of treated gas, said chamber being limited by at least one membrane (6) having a water vapor perviousness that is significantly higher than the perviousness to other gases or vapors, a humidity absorbing material being provided or flowing against the membrane (6) on the side opposite the chamber. The device includes a stack of plates (P1, P2) provided with central openings (A, B); each chamber (5) is formed by a central opening (A) located between two parallel membranes (6) while the humidity absorbing material is provided against each membrane (6); each plate (P1) is sandwiched between two plates (P2, P3) including a housing (B, B1) for the humidity absorbing material; and a plurality of chambers (5) are stacked and connected in series.
US08337585B1	Counter flow scrubber column and method for removing volatile organic compounds from a fluid stream A counter flow scrubber column and method for removing volatile organic compounds from a fluid stream using a packed column, a columns with trays and a biodiesel or a biomass and allowing a user to view the status of the cleaned vapor using an executive dashboard 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
US08337582B2	Adapter for a compressed air filter and use of the same A compressed air filter adapter for connecting a filter element (12) to a filter connection housing (13) includes a flow duct (21) enclosed by a wall (20) for compressed air, the flow duct (21) at a first end being delimited by a first opening (14), having an inner contour (142) defined by a first edge (141) and an outer contour (143), and at a second end by a second opening (15), having an inner contour (152) defined by a second edge (151) and an outer contour (153). The first opening (14) is provided for connection to a filter connection housing (13) and forms an opening cross-section (16), defined by the inner contour (142) of the first opening (14). The second opening (15) defines an opening on the filter side and forms a second opening cross-section (17), defined by the inner contour (152) of the second opening (15).
US08337577B1	Method for separation and containment of solids, liquids, and gases A method for capturing and separating solids, liquids, and gases, such as during air drilling of a well, can include using a cylindrical vessel with an inlet to receive an input. A target plate can be used to impact the input, remove solid and liquid therefrom, and direct flow from the inlet, forming a vortex. A first chevron baffle, second chevron baffle, and demister baffle can further remove solid and liquid from the input, forming a cleaned gas. The cleaned gas can be burned, the solid can be dried, and the liquid can be recycled for reuse in drilling operations.
US08337575B2	Method and system for treating polluted gases The present invention relates to a method and a system for treating polluted gases prior to their emission into the atmosphere. The system comprises a treatment chamber having an inlet for receiving polluted gas and an outlet for expelling treated gas, the treatment chamber including at least one treatment cell having a filtering layer for treating the polluted gas when the polluted gas comes in contact with the filtering layer. The system also contains a powder container connected to the treatment chamber such that air laden with the powder can flow to the treatment chamber to form a filtering layer on the at least one treatment cell. The system contains an air flow generator connected to the outlet of the treatment chamber and to the container which is connected to the treatment chamber, for causing air flow to the container, to the treatment chamber and in the environment.
US08337570B2	Process for oxidative colouring keratin fibres The present invention concerns a process for oxidative coloring keratin fibers especially human hair wherein a pretreatment is applied onto hair prior to application of oxidative coloring agent. Accordingly, present invention is a process for oxidative dyeing of keratin fibers especially human hair wherein an aqueous composition comprising at least one inorganic salt catalyzing and/or effecting the oxidative color development reaction from oxidative dye precursors is applied onto wet or dry hair and optionally rinsed off, and subsequently an aqueous composition comprising at least one oxidative dye precursor, optionally at least one coupling agent and at least one oxidizing agent is applied onto hair and after processing of 5 to 45 min with or without use of heat, preferably at a temperature range between 20 and 45° C., rinsed off from hair.
US08337566B2	Method and apparatus for modifying the exit orifice of a satiation pouch A prosthetic device is described that is positionable within the gastro-esophageal junction region of a patient. The prosthetic device includes a proximal opening and a distal orifice that is adjustable in size prior to and/or following implantation. During use, the prosthetic device is attached to tissue of the gastro-esophageal junction region of the patient, with the device positioned such that food ingested by the patient passes from the esophagus through the proximal opening into the interior of the prosthetic device, and eventually exits the prosthetic device via the distal opening.
US08337563B2	Motion inducing reverse shoulder assembly One embodiment of the present invention relates to a reverse shoulder assembly. Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a reverse shoulder assembly method of use. In one example, a reverse shoulder assembly of the present invention may be provided such that the reverse shoulder assembly alters the abduction force created by a patient's deltoid to a forward flexion force. In one example, a reverse shoulder assembly of the present invention may be provided such that the reverse shoulder assembly alters the abduction force created by a patient's deltoid to an external rotation force. In one example, a reverse shoulder assembly of the present invention may be provided such that the reverse shoulder assembly alters the abduction force created by a patient's deltoid to an external rotation force and a forward flexion force.
US08337562B2	Device for distracting body tissue An expandable interbody fusion device includes superior and inferior plates that are configured to receive a sequentially inserted stack of expansion members or wafers. The superior and inferior plates include features that at least initially interlock the two plates until the superior plate is dislodged by pressure from the growing wafer stack. The wafers include features on their top and bottom surfaces that interlock the wafers in multiple degrees of freedom so that the wafer stack is not disrupted when the fusion device is fully expanded. Each wafer also includes features that interlock with the inferior plate until the wafer id dislodged by sequential introduction of another wafer.
US08337561B2	Spinal disc prosthesis system A disc prosthesis is provided. The disc prosthesis includes a concave surface attached to a first base and a convex surface attached to a second base. The concave surface and the convex surface together form a rotating joint, and at least one of the concave and convex surfaces is attached to its base through at least one flexible support capable of flexing to provide shock absorption when the artificial disc prosthesis is disposed between two vertebra.
US08337560B2	Intervertebral prosthesis An intervertebral disk prosthesis, having a rigid top plate, a rigid bottom plate, and an elastically deformable intermediate cushion housed between the two inner surfaces of the plates. The cushion, at rest, possesses a wedge-shape possessing at least one front notch open into the larger end of the wedge and one rear notch open into the narrower end. The faces of the notches co-operate by contact over an area of magnitude that varies as a function of the intensity and/or direction of the load to which the prosthesis is subjected. The bottoms of the notches are spaced apart from each other and situated in the narrower half of the prosthesis.
US08337558B2	Vertebral body replacement implant In a vertebral body replacement implant having a bottom locating part for positioning against a lower vertebral body and having a top locating part for positioning against an upper vertebral body, wherein both locating parts are steplessly displaceable relative to one another along a displacement path so that the height of the vertebral body replacement implant is variable, having a clamping device for fixing the two locating parts in any desired intermediate position along the displacement path, which clamping device comprises a clamping element that is mounted on one locating part so as to be variable in position and can be pressed towards a clamping face on the other locating part, in order to improve the clamping action it is proposed that the clamping face is inclined slightly relative to the displacement path, so that when the locating parts are pushed together the clamping face moves progressively closer to the clamping element.
US08337556B2	Curable media for implantable medical device A subcutaneously formed in place orthopedic fixation device is provided, such as for fixation of the spine or other bone or bones. The device comprises an inflatable member, such as a tubular balloon. The balloon is positioned at a treatment site in the body while in a flexible, low crossing profile configuration. The balloon is thereafter inflated with a hardenable epoxy media comprising one or more epoxy compounds and one or more amine curing compounds that cures rapidly in place with low to moderate exotherm. Methods and delivery structures are also disclosed.
US08337551B2	Biomedical devices Biomedical devices such as silicone hydrogels formed from a polymerization product of a mixture comprising (a) a siloxane-containing homopolymer which has only one thio carbonyl thio fragment of a reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) agent; and (b) one or more biomedical device-forming comonomers are disclosed.
US08337548B2	Implant and system of an implant and an excitation device An implant comprising a body (1), at least one active pharmaceutical substance (4) and an element (5, 15, 35, 45, 55) deflectable in relation to the body, serving to release the at least one active pharmaceutical substance (4) during or after an external excitation of the deflection. Also disclosed is a system of such an implant and an excitation device (30, 70).
US08337547B2	Modular graft component junctions The present invention embodies an endovascular graft having an attachment frame connection mechanism that allows placement of the main body component in vasculature in combination with limb components. Various limb component-to-main body component attachment mechanisms are provided which ensure a reliable bond while facilitating a smaller delivery profile.
US08337543B2	Prosthesis anchoring and deploying device A system for intraluminally delivering and deploying stents and other prostheses includes an outer catheter, an inner catheter movable axially relative to the outer catheter, and an anchoring device mounted to a distal end region of the inner catheter. The anchoring device includes one or more control features that interact with a linking structure proximally disposed on the prosthesis, preferably including one or more loops. The control features and loops interact by surface engagement to anchor the prosthesis relative to the inner catheter in a nonfrictional manner, thus to maintain lower axial prosthesis deployment and retraction forces. In one version of the anchor, the control features extend radially outward from a sleeve. In another version, the control features are formed in respective recesses which also receive the loops or other linking structure.
US08337542B2	Delivery system for simultaneous deployment of intraluminal device A medical device delivery system includes a retention sheath having a proximal portion and a bi-furcated distal portion having first and second sheath branch portions. The proximal ends of the sheath branch portions are joined together at a sheath branch junction. The system also includes an inner catheter disposed within the retention sheath. The inner catheter includes a proximal portion and a bi-furcated distal portion with first and second catheter branch portions. The proximal ends are joined together at a catheter branch junction. When the sheath is in an initial position, the catheter branch junction is displaced proximally from the sheath branch junction by a distance that is greater than or equal to the larger of a length of a first medical device and the length of a second medical device.
US08337540B2	Stent for treating bifurcations and method of use An improved stent design and stent delivery catheter assembly for repairing a main vessel proximal to a side branch vessel and the opening to the side branch vessel forming a bifurcation. The stent is particularly useful in treating a bifurcation where plaque is present proximal to the side branch vessel but not distal to the side branch vessel. The present invention includes a trap door stent design, a stent delivery catheter assembly, and the method for delivering and implanting the stent in a bifurcated vessel. More particularly, the invention relates to a stent having rings aligned along a common longitudinal axis and connected by links. The stent has first rings that are implanted in the main vessel proximal to the bifurcation and one or more second rings forming a trap door section to appose the opening to the side branch vessel and the main vessel.
US08337539B2	Cooling device for removing heat from subcutaneous lipid-rich cells A cooling device for removing heat from subcutaneous lipid-rich cells of a subject having skin is provided. The cooling device includes a support having a first portion and a second portion. A first cooling element having a first heat exchanging surface is located at the first portion of the support. A second cooling element having a second heat exchanging surface is located at the second portion of the support. At least one of the first and second cooling elements is movable along the support and is configured to rotate for adjusting an angle between the first and second heat exchanging surfaces.
US08337533B2	Locking plate benders A system for contouring a locking plate includes a locking plate and at least one bender. The locking plate includes a plurality of threaded screw holes connected to one another by one or more ribs. The at least one bender includes a threaded tip configured to threadably engage one or more of the plurality of threaded screw holes and a shoulder operable to transmit mechanical force to the locking plate once the threaded tip is threadably engaged with one of the plurality of threaded screw holes.
US08337528B2	Methods and apparatus for stabilizing a spinal segment One or more sutures can be used in spinal applications to hold an intradiscal device in place between two vertebrae or repair a defect in the soft tissue of the spine, such as the annulus fibrosis or the dura. Tension can also be applied to the sutures to stabilize a spinal segment having an intradiscal device to prevent or minimize excessive spinal extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation of the spinal segment. Anchors are placed in two adjacent vertebrae and sutures are passed through each anchor. The sutures can be passed through portions of the intradiscal device. Alternatively, the sutures can be passed through a mesh patch which is held against the vertebrae to hold the intradiscal device in place. Tension is applied to the first and second ends of the sutures and the sutures are welded together. The sutures can be welded in a cross-braced arrangement minimize or prevent extension, lateral bending, and rotation of the spinal segment. For example, the sutures can be welded in a diagonal pattern, a horizontal pattern, a vertical pattern or any combination thereof across the adjacent vertebrae.
US08337527B2	Spinal connector A spinal connector includes a first seat having a first opening for coupling to a first spinal connecting member along a first longitudinal axis and a second seat having a second opening for coupling to a second spinal connecting member along a second longitudinal axis. The second longitudinal axis is substantially coaxial to the first longitudinal axis for connecting the first and second connecting members end to end. The spinal connector also includes a ball enclosure rotatably received in the second opening of the second seat. The ball enclosure defines a bore along the second longitudinal axis and articulates with the second opening for allowing change of orientation of the second connecting member relative to the first connecting member.
US08337525B2	Soft tissue repair device and associated methods A fibrous tissue repair device includes first and second tubular anchors having corresponding longitudinal passages. The tissue repair device includes corresponding first and second inserters. Each inserter has a shaft with a distal portion received in the longitudinal passage of the corresponding tubular anchor. A flexible strand couples the first and second anchors.
US08337522B2	Vascular sealing device with locking hub An internal tissue puncture closure method and apparatus. The method and apparatus provide a locking device for compressing and holding an external component such as a collagen sponge at a puncture situs. The locking device facilitates compression of the external component in a first direction, but prevents or locks against retraction.
US08337520B2	Methods of manufacture and use of endoluminal devices A seamless, self-expanding implantable device having a low profile is disclosed along with methods of making and using the same. The implantable device includes a frame cut out of a single piece of material that is formed into a three-dimensional shape. The implantable device may comprise an embolic filter, stent, or other implantable structure. The present invention also allows complicated frame structures to be easily formed from planar sheets of starting material, such as through laser cutting, stamping, photo-etching, or other cutting techniques.
US08337519B2	Embolic protection filtering device Embolic protection devices and methods of making and using the same. An embolic protection device may include a shaft or filter wire having a filter coupled thereto. The filter wire may include a proximal section and a distal section. The proximal and distal sections may be coupled with a connector.
US08337517B2	Surgical apparatus A surgical apparatus including a system controller, a hand-held scalpel assembly, a first communication link interconnecting the hand-held scalpel assembly with the system controller, an actuator, and a second communication link interconnecting the actuator with said system controller.
US08337513B2	Instruments and techniques for controlled removal of epidermal layers An instrument and technique for the removal of epidermal layers in a controlled manner utilizing a hand-held instrument with a working end that (i) a vacuum aspiration system, (ii) a source for delivery of a sterile fluids or pharmacological agents to the skin; and (iii) a skin interface surface in the working end that has specially shape structure for abrading surface layers of the patient's epidermis as the working end is moved over the patient's skin while at the same time causing rapid penetration of the fluids into the skin for therapeutic purposes. Movement of the working end across the skin causes abrasion of the surface layers in a path over the patient's skin. The method of the invention may be used in a periodic treatment for the removal of superficial skin layers that enhances the synthesis of dermal collagen aggregates by inducing the body's natural wound healing response. The method of the invention creates more normal dermal architectures in skin with limited depths of skin removal by the series of superficial treatments that may be comparable to the extent of neocollagenesis caused by a deep skin removal treatment (e.g., CO2 laser skin removal).
US08337512B2	Device and workflow for minimally-invasive therapy, in particular needle guidance In a method or system for minimally-invasive therapy on a patient, a minimally-invasive therapy apparatus is provided. While performing the minimally-invasive therapy on the patient with a minimally-invasive therapy apparatus, the patient is ventilated with a jet ventilator to reduce a magnitude of the patient's breathing and increase a frequency of the patient's breathing.
US08337510B2	Medical instrument The invention is directed to an endoscopic retrieval instrument for receiving and retrieving one or more objects from the human body, the instrument comprising an insertion instrument, a retrieval container, and a coupling mechanism configured to selectively disconnect the retrieval container from the insertion instrument.
US08337507B2	Methods and compositions for articular repair Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for producing articular repair materials and for repairing an articular surface. In particular, methods for providing articular repair systems. Also provided are articular surface repair systems designed to replace a selected area cartilage, for example, and surgical tools for repairing articular surfaces.
US08337506B2	Combination bone fixation device and bending tool A combination of bone fixation device and bending tool. The bone fixation device comprising a plurality of screw receiving members. Each screw receiving member having an aperture extending there through for receiving a screw. The screw receiving members being connected together in a line by plastically deformable connecting arms extending therebetween. The bending tool comprising first and second bending arms. Each bending arm comprising a first face, a second face and a side wall extending therebetween. The side wall comprising a recess extending between the first and second faces. The intersection of the recess with the first and second faces defining first and second connecting arm receiving apertures respectively. The recess being adapted to receive a screw receiving member.
US08337504B2	System and method for inserting an implant An implant includes a body configured to be implanted at least partially within a bone canal. The body has a proximal end, a longitudinal axis and a cavity located at the proximal end. The cavity is configured to mate with an insertion tool and defines a cavity axis that is not parallel to the longitudinal axis of the implant.
US08337503B2	Custom radiographically designed cutting guides and instruments for use in total ankle replacement surgery A system comprised of custom radiographically designed tibial and talar cutting guides, a tibial reaming guide and bit, and instrumentalities for use in total ankle replacement surgery and a computer-based system and method for making the custom radiographically designed tibial and talar cutting guides.
US08337500B2	Drilling/milling guide and keel cut preparation system An instrument system, associated milling or drilling guide and method include use of a trial implant of a size corresponding to an actual implant for the intervertebral space, with a milling guide mounted on the trial implant. The milling guide includes a longitudinal guide chamber which is tapered from a forward end to a rearward end. The system also includes a cutting tool which is received in the guide chamber in order to form a cutout in an adjacent vertebra. This cutting tool includes a bearing member which pivotally engages the rearward end to form a pivot axis for the cutting tool in the tapered guide chamber. Either the milling guide can be inverted to form the cutout in the other vertebra; or the milling guide can be provided with two guide chambers, to be used with one cutting tool moved between them or two respective cutting tools.
US08337497B2	Methods for sternal closure A method for sternal closure of a separated sternum includes applying an adhesive to a portion of an incision between at least a first sternum portion and at least a second sternum portion and maintaining the first sternum portion proximate to the second sternum portion until the adhesive has bonded with the first sternum portion and the second sternum portion. The adhesive may be applied over substantially the entire length of the incision or may be applied in intervals. The method for sternal closure may also include compressing the first sternum portion and the second sternum portion together using one or more compression devices and introducing adhesive to contact regions where the compressive devices contact the sternum. The method may also include cutting an interface feature in the first and second sternum portions or spanning the incision between the first and second interface portions with a structural support.
US08337490B2	Apparatus for movable and weight-compensating suspension of a focusing objective of a laser system An apparatus for movable weight-compensating suspension of a focusing objective of a laser system comprises a force generation device to generate a counterforce component G which counteracts the weight of the focusing objective, a transmission device which transmits the counterforce component G onto the focusing objective and permits upward/downward compensatory movement of the focusing objective, in such a way that in the case of an upward/downward compensatory movement of the focusing objective, an optical axis (O) of the focusing objective maintains at least its orientation in space, and preferably its position in space.
US08337488B2	Diaphragm drug pump Embodiments of the invention provide apparatus, systems and methods for delivering drugs using an implantable diaphragm based drug pump which can deliver precisely controlled doses of drug to selected target tissue sites in the brain, digestive system, blood stream heart or other selected site. Various embodiments of the pump include multi-chamber bellows or other diaphragm based pumps which can rapidly deliver drug to the selected target tissue site.
US08337484B2	Proximally trimmable catheter including pre-attached bifurcation and related methods A proximally trimmable catheter is disclosed. In one embodiment, the catheter includes a multi-lumen catheter tube, one or more extension tubes, and a hub for fluidly connecting the two. In a first unlocked state, the hub is axially slidable along the catheter tube. The hub includes tube pins that are in fluid communication with the extension tubes. A cutting member is positioned to longitudinally cut the catheter tube during axial sliding of the hub along the catheter tube such that distal portions of the tube pins remain disposed within the lumens of the catheter tube. When positioned as desired, the hub is locked into a second locked state and is no longer axially slidable along the catheter tube. The tube pins are fluidly sealed within the lumens of the catheter tube as to establish fluid communication between the extension tubes and the lumens via the tube pins.
US08337478B2	Ergonomic tampon applicator A tampon applicator barrel includes a wall forming a tube with a center axis therthrough and with a hollow interior volume. The tube has a first barrel end and a second barrel end opposite the first barrel end to form a length therebetween that corresponds to the length of the center axis. The tube increases in diameter along the length of the tube from a first diameter to a second diameter that forms a main body section, and decreases in diameter along the length of the tube from the second diameter to a third diameter that forms a reverse taper section. The center axis is substantially straight throughout the extant of the tube.
US08337476B2	Real time urine monitoring system A disposable real-time closed catheter urine output monitoring system. The monitoring system of the invention can measure urine outputs at both high and low urine flow in real time, using a pressure chamber in the form of a hollow body having an input port for coupling to a tube connected to a catheter for collection of urine from a patient, an exit port coupled to a collection container and a vent port, such that air may flow through the vent, but urine is blocked by the vent. A sensor measures flow from the exit port of the pressure chamber into the collection container, and a pressure sensor may be included to measure pressure in the pressure chamber. The invention also provides a method of using the apparatus in a real-time monitoring system.
US08337474B2	Devices and methods for treatment of damaged tissue Methods and devices for treatment of damaged tissue are disclosed, including treatment of wounds by employing non-electrically powered, reduced pressure therapy devices. Maintenance and control of the sub atmospheric pressure exerted may be provided by such devices while minimizing discomfort to the user. The devices may be configured to be worn inconspicuously underneath clothing.
US08337473B2	Substance dispenser, especially for medical or cosmetic treatment A dispenser containing a substance to be applied on a patient is described. The dispenser includes a plunger, a tube and a perforated element located inside the tube. The tube contains openings at its application end. When the plunger is pushed during application, the substance is squeezed through the perforated element and the openings and is applied to the patient. Selection of the height of the perforated element and presence or absence of alignment between the perforations of the perforated element and the openings allows control of the application of the substance on the patient.
US08337472B2	Sheath remover device A sheath remover device is of elongate tubular form having a sheath capture region at one end and a passage along which a captured sheath may pass from the capture region. A plurality of latching fingers, each with an internally directed latch, are equi-spaced in the capture region. Two further inwardly directed latches are on the cut out regions. The sheath remover is designed so that, a sheath already disposed in the sheath capture region is pushed along the passage away from the sheath capture region when the remover is offered up to and engages the subsequent sheath. The spacing of the latches and is such that the earlier sheath is not released from latches until the latches have securely engaged in the subsequent sheath, thereby providing an indication of secure engagement of the subsequent sheath. The sheath remover may also be used as a cap and/or a cocking rod.
US08337470B2	Three-way valve for power injection in vascular access devices An apparatus for facilitating fluid flow between an internal body structure and a device external to the body comprises a housing having proximal and distal chambers separated from one another by a wall and fluidly connected to proximal port and distal ports. The wall includes a valve selectively sealing first and second openings thereof and a canopy biased toward a sealing position sealingly surrounding the first opening. The bias of the canopy is set to define a first pressure differential at which the canopy is moved out of the sealing position to permit fluid transfer therepast in a first direction. A duck-bill stem extends through the second opening and includes a lumen extending therethrough with walls of the stem being biased toward a sealing position and configured so that, when a second pressure differential is applied at at least a second level, the first end opens to permit flow therepast.
US08337469B2	Insulin pump and method for controlling a user interface of an insulin pump An insulin pump comprises a pump device, a control for the pump device, a memory, an operating element for operating the insulin pump and a method for controlling a user interface of the insulin pump are disclosed. The control is designed and programmed such that options for the user of the insulin pump are displayed by the user interface as a function of a user-specific preference profile stored in the memory and as a function of a current time and are provided for selection by using the operating element. The insulin pump can be designed in an auto-adaptive fashion, such that the control continuously updates the user-specific preference profile based on analyzing operating inputs of the user. Embodiments of the invention allow a large range of functions and simple operation, even in the case of miniaturized pumps.
US08337467B2	Safety device for a syringe The invention relates to a safety device (1) for a syringe (2), the device comprising a protective sheath (20) in which the syringe (2) can slide, said sheath (20) presenting an opening (36) at a distal portion (33), which opening is suitable for allowing the syringe (2) to project beyond the sheath (20). According to the invention, the sheath (20) presents radial resilience at its distal portion (33) suitable for enabling the sheath (20) to receive a cylinder (3, 19) of diameter greater than that of said opening (36).
US08337463B2	Catheter insertion device Embodiments of a catheter insertion device are discussed comprising: an approximately hollow cylindrical catheter sleeve, at whose distal end a catheter is attached; a needle sleeve with a hollow needle, which is attached thereto and which, when ready for use, extends through the catheter sleeve and the catheter, and; a needle protective element that is arranged inside the catheter sleeve while being able to move on the needle. Said needle protective element has an engaging section that engages with an engaging device, which is formed in the vicinity of the needle tip, when the hollow needle is withdrawn from the catheter sleeve. A check valve is placed inside the catheter sleeve between the catheter and the needle protective element. The hollow needle, when ready for use, extends through said check valve, and the check valve automatically closes once the needle is withdrawn.
US08337455B2	Steerable device and system A system includes a steerable device, such as a sheath or shaft, having proximal and distal ends. The steerable device includes an elongated body having a proximal section, a steering section, and a distal tip. Control wires are routed through the body and connected at or near the distal end of the steerable device. The system further includes a control unit to which the proximal end of the steerable device is functionally connected. In one embodiment, the control unit includes an actuator connected to one control wire and a biasing force generating device connected to a second control wire. The steering section is controllably manipulated by the control unit to facilitate steering of the distal tip of the steerable device as the steerable device is advanced through tortuous passageways of a patient's body.
US08337454B2	Device and methods for treating paranasal sinus conditions Described here are paranasal sinus devices for treating paranasal sinus conditions. The devices include a cavity member, ostial member, and nasal portion. One or more of the cavity member, ostial member, and nasal portion may deliver an active agent for sustained release to treat the paranasal sinus condition. Exemplary paranasal sinus conditions are sinus inflammation due to functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and rhinosinusitis.
US08337452B2	Fluid injection device A fluid injection device includes: a pulse generation section that includes a fluid chamber whose volume is changeable, and an inlet flow passage and an outlet flow passage that are connected to the fluid chamber; a first connection flow passage connected to the outlet flow passage, having an end portion; a second connection flow passage connected to the inlet flow passage; a fluid injection opening formed at the end portion of the first connection flow passage, having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the outlet flow passage; a connection flow passage tube including the first connection flow passage and having rigidity adequate to transmit pulses of fluid flowing from the fluid chamber to the fluid injection opening; and a pressure generation section that supplies fluid to the inlet flow passage.
US08337449B2	Dialysis system having disposable cassette A dialysis system includes a dialysis instrument and a disposable cassette. The dialysis instrument includes three pump actuators. The disposable cassette includes three dialysate pump chambers. The three dialysate pump chambers are positioned and arranged to operate with the three dialysate pump actuators of the dialysis instrument.
US08337445B2	Ocular implant with double anchor mechanism The invention relates generally to medical devices and methods for the treatment of ocular disorders. One method provides an implant having an inlet portion with a first anchor and an outlet portion with a second anchor. The implant is implanted in tissue of an eye such the implant conducts fluid from an anterior chamber of the eye to a physiological outflow pathway of the eye. The implanting involves positioning the first anchor adjacent eye tissue, positioning the second anchor within the physiological outflow pathway, and deploying the second anchor such that the second anchor secures the implant within the physiological outflow pathway and a distal end of the second anchor is positioned further into the physiological outflow pathway than an outlet of the outlet portion.
US08337438B2	Method and device for relieving muscle tension A method and device for relieving muscle tension and spasms in a user's head, neck, shoulders and back is provided. The method and device may be used by an individual to apply pressure to specific pressure points on the trapezius muscles of the user's shoulders, sub-occipital area of the user's neck and rhomboid and thoracic paraspinal region of the user's back.
US08337436B2	Apparatus of cardiopulmonary resuscitator The present invention discloses an apparatus of cardiopulmonary resuscitator that is operated through a driving mechanism controlled and driven by air power. The driving mechanism functions to actuate a belt adapted to extend around the chest of a patient to generate reciprocating movement of pressing and releasing so as to achieve a purpose of cardiopulmonary resuscitation for recovering heartbeat and breathing of the patent. By means of the disclosure of the present invention, the apparatus of cardiopulmonary resuscitator is capable of being operated in any kinds of occasions without worrying about lack of power electricity. Meanwhile, the driving mechanism can provide higher reliability and lower cost through the mechanism design that is more simplified than the design of electrical control element used in the conventional apparatus.
US08337435B2	Method and apparatus for treating pelvic pain A method and apparatus for self-treating internal muscle and trigger points related to pelvic pain in women and men. The apparatus includes a rod having a handle attached to a straight portion at a first end of the rod and a pressure applicator attached to a second end of the rod, where a first curved portion is disposed between the straight portion of the rod and the second end of the rod. In the method of the present invention, a trigger point is located in the patient's pelvic floor, the patient inserts the apparatus either vaginally or rectally to allow contact of the pressure applicator of the apparatus with the pelvic floor, and pressure is applied to the trigger point using the apparatus.
US08337434B2	Methods for using high intensity focused ultrasound and associated systems and devices A plurality of concepts related to HIFU therapy are disclosed, including a technique to spatially track and display the relative positions of a HIFU focal point and an imaging plane from an ultrasound imager, so that a clinician can ensure that the HIFU focus remains in the image plane during HIFU therapy, thereby facilitating image guided HIFU therapy. Also disclosed are a plurality of transvaginal probes that include a HIFU transducer optimized for the treatment of uterine fibroids. In one embodiment, the probe includes a piezoceramic crystal bonded to an aluminum lens, to achieve a HIFU transducer having a focal length of about 4 cm. In another embodiment, the probe includes a generally spoon-shaped transducer including a plurality of individual emitter elements. Still another concept disclosed herein is a method for evaluating a quality of a coupling between a liquid-filled volume encompassing a HIFU transducer and a tissue interface.
US08337432B2	Apparatus for treating patients suffering from vascular disease by means of infra,-audible- and ultrasound waves An apparatus treats patients suffering from vascular disease with infra-, audible- and ultrasound waves. The apparatus includes a treating head for emitting sound waves with frequencies ranging from 1 Hz to 100 kHz and feeding introducing the sound waves through a coupling medium into a body portion to be treated, an electronics connected to the treating head for energizing the treating head to emit the sound waves, and a control panel connected to the electronics to choose the electronic waveform of the energizing.
US08337421B2	Tissue penetration device A tissue penetration device and method of using same. The tissue penetration device may optionally include sampling and analyzing functions, which may be integrated. An embodiment provides control of a lancet used for sampling blood. Electric field coils or solenoids may drive the lancet using electromagnetic force. Advancement and retraction of a lancet may be controlled by a feedback loop monitoring the position and velocity of the lancet embodiments of the lancet driver can be configured to follow a predetermined tissue lancing profile. Embodiments of the invention include a lancet and method for using a lancet to maintain the patency of the wound tract once the lancet has cut into the skin.
US08337416B2	Biopsy device A mechanism for sequentially loading and unloading a biopsy instrument includes a first wheel operatively connected with a cannula, the first wheel being rotatably mounted upon an axle such that the axle urges rotation of the first wheel in a first direction to transfer the cannula and the first wheel to a loaded position, the first wheel being configured for selective rotation with respect to the axle in a second direction to transfer the cannula and the first wheel to an unloaded position. A second wheel is operatively connected with a stylet, the second wheel being configured to be rotated by the axle in the first direction when the first wheel is in the loaded position, the second wheel configured for rotation relative to the axle to transfer the stylet and second wheel from the loaded to unloaded position. The second wheel is operatively engaged with the first wheel to allow partial rotation of the second wheel in the second direction with respect to the first wheel and urging similar rotation of the first wheel in the second direction after at least some duration of relative rotation of the second wheel with respect to the second wheel.
US08337415B2	Tissue harvesting, mincing, and transport device A device comprises a needle, probe, holster, and tissue collection chamber. A motor simultaneously powers a vacuum pump, translates and rotates a cutter, and translates a plunger. The needle includes a piercing tip and an interior shelf that divides the needle into a cutter lumen and lateral lumen. The cutter and shelf include apertures configured to mince a portion of a tissue specimen that has been severed by the cutter and forced through the apertures by compressive force from the plunger as well as vacuum force. The apertures of the shelf and the apertures of the rotating cutter cooperate to shear the tissue being compressed by the plunger. The minced tissue is then transported to the tissue collection chamber under vacuum force with the assistance of a fluid flush. Collected minced tissue may then be further processed as desired for a given medical treatment or procedure.
US08337412B2	Integral fluid regulator for endoscopic vessel dissection/harvesting device A device for dissecting and/or harvesting a vessel includes an integrally adjustable insufflation device to supply an insufflation fluid to a subcutaneous area within a patient. The integrally adjustable insufflation device includes one or more one fluid control mechanisms to regulate the pressure rate and/or flow rate of the insufflation fluid being supplied to the subcutaneous area from within a sterile field surrounding the subcutaneous area.
US08337410B2	Electromyography system Methods for determining structural integrity of a bone within the spine of a patient, the bone having a first aspect and a second aspect, wherein the second aspect separated from the first aspect by a width and located adjacent to a spinal nerve. The methods involve (a) applying an electrical stimulus to the first aspect of the bone; (b) electrically monitoring a muscle myotome associated with the spinal nerve to detect if an onset neuro-muscular response occurs in response to the application of the electrical stimulus to the first aspect of the bone; (c) automatically increasing the magnitude of the electrical stimulus to until the onset neuro-muscular response is detected; and (d) communicating to a user via at least one of visual and audible means information representing the magnitude of the electrical stimulus which caused the onset neuro-muscular response.
US08337409B2	Computerized medical diagnostic system utilizing list-based processing A system and method for providing computerized, knowledge-based medical diagnostic advice. The medical advice is provided to the general public over a network, such as a telephone network with the use of a telephone or the Internet with the use of an Internet access device. Alternatively, the medical advice can be provided to a patient in a stand-alone mode by use of a computer. The invention utilizes a list-based processing method of generating and executing diagnostic scripts. For the purpose of diagnosing a health problem of a patient, medical knowledge is organized into a list of the diseases to be considered. Each disease on the disease list includes a list of symptoms that is checked in a patient. Each symptom on the symptom list is then further described as a response to a list of one or more questions asked of the patient about the symptom. This triply-nested list structure is converted by suitable data structure transformations into a script that is stored. When a patient requires diagnosis, the script is played back as a sequence of questions. The responses of the patient are analyzed and converted into symptoms. The symptoms are accumulated into diseases. Finally the diseases are selected and reported as a diagnosis.
US08337406B2	Adaptive persistence processing of elastic images Adaptive persistence processing on elastic images in an ultrasound system is disclosed. An ultrasound data acquisition unit sequentially acquires a plurality of ultrasound data frames based on ultrasound echo signals reflected from a target object by repeatedly applying and releasing stress to/from the target object. A processing unit calculates inter-frame displacements of the frames between the ultrasound data frames to form elastic images. The processing unit adaptively performs persistence processing on the elastic images in consideration of application or release of the stress to/from the target object.
US08337405B2	System and method for automatic detection of anomalies in images Methods and apparatus for detecting anomalies in images according to various aspects of the present invention operate in conjunction with an optical flow system. The optical flow system may receive image data for a first image and a second image and generate flow vectors corresponding to differences between the first image and the second image. An analyzer may be coupled to the optical flow system and analyze the flow vectors to identify anomalies in the second image.
US08337402B1	Ambidextrous laryngoscope blade An improved laryngoscope blade for use with a conventional laryngoscope handle and conventional means of illumination. The blade tapers from the handle end to the end that is inserted in the mouth, so that the blade roughly conforms to the shape of the tongue. In addition, the sides of the blade curve upward so as to cradle the tongue. This design allows the intubator to better control the tongue and more easily view the vocal chords during insertion of an endotracheal tube. Furthermore, the ambidextrous, symmetrical design is easier for left-handed doctors and technician to use.
US08337400B2	Illumination device for use in endoscope An illumination device for use in an endoscope includes a light source, an optical fiber and a wavelength conversion member. The optical fiber guides light to a tip end of an endoscope insertion portion of the endoscope. The wavelength conversion member is provided at an emission end of the optical fiber. The wavelength conversion member configured to be excited by the light source. The illumination device can provide white illumination light obtained by mixing light emitted from the optical fiber and light obtained by exciting the wavelength conversion member by the light emitted from the optical fiber. Also, the illumination device can provide illumination light being different from the white illumination light, by using other excitation light.
US08337399B2	Endoscope apparatus and scanning endoscope processor An endoscope apparatus, comprising an imaging controller, a receiver, and an image generator, is provided. The imaging controller makes an optical image to be captured so that the amount of optical information to be captured per a certain area size for an enlarged observation area is greater than that for a normal observation area. The receiver receives the optical information as a pixel signal. The image generator generates a normal image signal corresponding to a normal image on the basis of the pixel signals captured within the normal observation area and a part of the pixel signals captured within the enlarged observation area. The image generator generates an enlarged image signal corresponding to an enlarged image on the basis of the pixel signals captured within the enlarged observation area.
US08337397B2	Method and system for providing visual guidance to an operator for steering a tip of an endoscopic device toward one or more landmarks in a patient Landmark directional guidance is provided to an operator of an endoscopic device by displaying graphical representations of vectors adjacent a current image captured by an image capturing device disposed at a tip of the endoscopic device and being displayed at the time on a display screen, wherein the graphical representations of the vectors point in directions that the endoscope tip is to be steered in order to move towards associated landmarks such as anatomic structures in a patient.
US08337395B2	Anastomosis system There is provided an endoscopic system.The system comprises a flexible endoscope insertable into a first tubular organ from a natural opening of a human body. The system further comprises an opening member which forms on a wall part of the first tubular organ an opening used to insert the endoscope into an abdominal cavity from the first tubular organ in the body, an anastomosing member which is able to anastomoses the first tubular organ with a second tubular organ in the abdominal cavity, and a cutting member with which the second tubular organ is able to be cut.
US08337392B2	Penile prosthetic with anti-autoinflation mechanism A pump connected to a body implantable penile prosthesis including a reservoir maintaining a fluid volume that is transferrable into a cylinder of the penile prosthesis is described. The pump includes a pump bulb connected to a pump body that is in fluid communication with the reservoir and the cylinder; an inlet valve operable to allow a portion of the fluid volume to be drawn from the reservoir and delivered into the pump bulb; an exhaust valve operable to allow the portion of the fluid volume delivered into the pump bulb to be pumped into the cylinder; and an anti-autoinflation (AAI) valve disposed in the pump body and comprising a seal that is biased to prevent fluid flow from bypassing the pump bulb and flowing from the reservoir to the cylinder.
US08337391B2	System for treating rectocele in a woman A system for treating rectocele in a woman includes an implant comprising a support body from which there extends at least to upper suspension stabilizers each disposed on either side of a sagittal plane on a longitudinal axis, the longitudinal axes forming between them an angle greater than 45°, and two lower suspension stabilizers disposed on either side of the sagittal plane; and an introduction device for inserting the implant in the woman, the introduction device shaped analogous to that of the implant and comprising a hollow body defining a cavity configured to receive the support body of the implant, tubular straps extending from the hollow body with each defining a cavity for receiving one of the suspension stabilizers of the implant, traction means extending from an end of each of the tubular straps, and a cut initiator provided on the hollow body.
US08337382B2	Radiosurgical neuromodulation devices, systems, and methods for treatment of behavioral disorders by external application of ionizing radiation Radiosurgical techniques and systems treat behavioral disorders (such as depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (“OCD”), addiction, hyperphagia, and the like) by directing radiation from outside the patient toward a target tissue within the patient's brain, typically without imposing surgical trauma. The target will often be included in a neural circuit associated with the behavioral disorder. A cellularly sub-lethal dose of the radiation may be applied and the radiation can mitigate the behavioral disorder, obesity, or the like, by modulating the level of neural activity within the target and in associated tissues. Hypersensitive and/or hyperactive neuronal tissue may be targeted, with the radiation downwardly modulating hyperactive neuronal activity. By down-regulating the activity of a target that normally exerts negative feedback or a limiting effect on a relevant neural circuit, the activity of the circuit may be increased.
US08337381B2	Disposal process for residential solid waste Industrial process for the treatment of RSW (residential solid waste) after being milled is processed with sanitizing solutions, and binders and hardeners, which chemically immobilize and avoid the production of percolating liquids, leaching of heavy metals and generation of greenhouse gases. The resulting material is a grey, warm and malleable paste that is moldable, allowing diverse uses. The material can be directly buried in the ground without special protections; can be used as construction material for urban furniture or architectural structures; or can be anchored in the ocean, building habitats of ocean ecosystems, if it is properly packaged in waterproof material.
US08337378B2	Continuous self-cleaning centrifuge assembly having turbidity-sensing feature A continuous self-cleaning centrifuge assembly having a feed inlet for unclarified liquid and first and second outlets for clarified liquid. Solids are discharged out of a solids holding space in the centrifuge in response to comparison of a measured turbidity to a predetermined turbidity parameter of clarified liquid bled in a detection line in communication with the centrifuge at the second outlet. The turbidity is affected by the degree of build up of solids in the centrifuge. A method of optimizing the clarified liquid outflowing from the centrifuge includes the steps of controlling the flow rate of unclarified liquid into the centrifuge in response to the turbidity of the clarified liquid flowing out of the centrifuge and discharging solids out of a solids holding space in the centrifuge in response to the turbidity measurement.
US08337376B2	Post-press apparatus and a method to accomplish hot foil stamping, die-cutting and blank separation in a single pass A post-press apparatus which advances paper once to accomplish processing of cotton boxes, includes a sheet feeder unit, a hot foil stamping unit, a die-cutting unit, a waste stripping unit, a blank separation unit, a waste conveying unit, a gripper bar and a gripper bar chain. The advantages are that works to be done by multiple apparatuses are accomplished on one apparatus, reducing a number of times of paper advancing to improve a production efficiency and decreasing staffs to reduce a labor cost; inaccuracy of repetitive positioning by multiple times of paper advancing is avoided, improving a processing quality and reducing a defect rate to decrease a loss.
US08337371B2	Method and hands-free apparatus for muscle isolation during weight lifting exercise An exercise apparatus comprising two adjustable cuffs configured to encircle a user's extremity on either side of an articulated joint, such as the elbow. Each cuff is provided with a connector ring for conveniently connecting a pull line to a weight machine, suspended free weight, or other resistance generating exercise machine. One or both connector rings may be engaged by the pull line. The two connector rings are interconnected by an adjustable-length isolator strap which limits the range of motion of the user's elbow. By isolating arm movement, the apparatus enables isolated exercise of chest, shoulder, or back muscle groups. As hands are not necessary, the apparatus also enables users having a hand or other lower arm infirmity to continue other upper-body muscle exercises.
US08337369B1	Adjustable quick-release ratcheting binding system for adjustable leg extensions An adaptable mounting plate is secured to and thereby combined with a stilt boot plate. The mounting plate pivotally couples a quick-release ratcheting strap and an adjustable arched heel backer to the stilt boot plate. The mounting plate and backer keep a user's feet in correct position, thereby providing both lateral and forward stability needed during movement. The pivotal quick release ratcheting strap simultaneously drives the user's heel into the arched heel backer, ensuring a secure coupling therebetween, and draws the user's shoe or boot tightly down against the stilt boot plate. The toe strap is also preferably a quick-release ratcheting strap, and is preferably attached in existing toe strap mounting holes. Likewise, the upper calf support utilizes the same type of quick-release ratcheting strap as the ankle, and is preferably mounted with nylon lock nuts through mounting holes on the calf support.
US08337366B2	Interactive system and method for boxing and martial arts A boxing or martial arts training and exercise device may include punching pads locationally displaced on a frame. Respective pads may be positioned in support on the frame for punching and kicking. Each pad can communicatively connect to one or more impact sensor. Each impact sensor can communicatively connect to a control unit. The control unit may be communicatively connected to a display. The impact sensor detects strikes to the pad. The impact sensor includes an accelerometer and a signal processor. The control unit includes an aggregator for receiving and logging strike metrics. The control unit directs sequences in the display according to a routine, and delivers indicators of strike metrics. The control unit includes a user interface for selection among sequences, as well as for selection of various menu items. A video of a human instructor or an animated avatar is viewable in a display.
US08337363B2	Gear change control device, straddle-type vehicle, and gear change control method A gear change control device actuates an actuator in response to an input of a gear change command and sets the clutch in an intermediate state between the engaged and disengaged states before a plurality of gears in the transmission are selectively engaged by dog clutches. In the intermediate state, a driving-side friction member and a driven-side friction member of the clutch are pressed against each other at a pressure lower than in the engaged state. The gear change control device actuates the clutch actuator to restore the friction clutch set in the intermediate state to the engaged state after the plurality of gears are selectively engaged.
US08337359B2	Hybrid engine system A hybrid engine and coupling system for use with a vehicle or other load which employs a motor/generator unit connected through controllable couplers to a kinetic energy storage device and to one or more internal combustion engine modules in a programmed manner. Several embodiments provide varying configurations to satisfy various power and packaging design requirements.
US08337358B2	Hydraulic clutch control mechanization with all-mode default for use in a multimode hybrid transmission A transmission includes first, second, third, and fourth clutches, first and second shift valves, and first, second, third, and fourth trim valves. Each trim valve is operative to control fluid pressure to a respective one of the first, second, third, and fourth clutches. The transmission also includes a controller. The controller is electrically operatively connected to the first and second shift valves and the first, second, third, and fourth trim valves to selectively provide a first clutch configuration for operating in a first mode and a second clutch configuration for operating in a second mode. The transmission also includes a clutch control mechanization for selectively moving the clutch configuration to a default position in the event power to the transmission is lost.
US08337355B2	Eccentric speed reducer There is provided an eccentric speed reducer that achieves improved output torque without increasing the outer radial dimension of a casing. The strut includes, at the basal portion of a peripheral side surface where the strut is continuous with the base carrier, first curved portions and second curved portions that are in a form of a curved surface having a different radius of curvature. The first curved portions are provided at the supporting hole-facing sides of the strut that are disposed facing the rotation supporting holes. The second curved portions are provided between an outer side located in the strut at an outer position in the radial direction of the casing and on the side facing the inner circumference of the casing, and supporting hole-facing sides. The second curved portions have a larger radius of curvature than the first curved portions.
US08337346B2	Power unit A power unit may include an engine, a belt transmission driven by the engine, a belt transmission chamber incorporating the belt transmission, a second transmission driven by the belt transmission, a second transmission chamber incorporating the second transmission, and a housing member constituting both a part of the belt transmission chamber and a part of the second transmission chamber.
US08337342B1	Hybrid arrow insert A dual step insert includes a head portion, a front neck portion, and a rear neck portion. An extension shaft is a tube shaped portion that includes an outside diameter, an inside diameter, and a wall thickness. An arrow shaft is a tube shaped structure that includes an outside diameter, an inside diameter, and a wall thickness. An outside rear neck portion of the dual step insert is used as an adhesive surface to adhesively couple the rear neck portion inside the front end of the extension shaft. Coupling of the dual step insert and the extension shaft create a dual step insert. The outside surface of the front neck portion and the outside surface of the extension shaft are now the adhesive surface for the dual step insert, which is adhesively coupled into the arrow shaft.
US08337336B2	Shaft fitting system A method of selecting a preferred golf shaft for a player who uses an existing golf shaft, according to one or more aspects of the present invention, may comprise gathering a plurality of empirical data sets, each data set corresponding to an individual golf shaft selected from a plurality of golf shafts; providing a plurality of specification codes, each associated with an individual empirical data set of the plurality of empirical data sets; from the plurality of specification codes, identifying a first specification code associated with the existing golf shaft; gathering feedback associated with the existing golf shaft from the player; and using the feedback to select, from the plurality of specification codes, a second specification code corresponding to the preferred golf shaft.
US08337333B2	Golf ball with a non-ionomeric inner cover, stiff TPU intermediate cover, and cast thermoset outer cover A golf ball including a core and a cover disposed about the core. The cover includes a thermoplastic inner cover layer having a hardness between 55 and 60 Shore D; an outer cover layer having a hardness between 55 and 60 Shore D; and a stiff intermediate cover layer disposed between the inner and outer cover layers and having a hardness greater than the inner cover layer and the outer cover layer. The inner cover layer is formed from a non-ionomeric composition including a non-ionomeric stiffening polymer and at least one E/Y copolymer or E/X/Y terpolymer, where E is an olefin, Y is a carboxylic acid, and X is a softening comonomer. The intermediate cover layer is formed from a stiff thermoplastic polyurethane or polyurea composition and the cover outer cover layer is formed from a thermoset polyurethane, a polyurea, or a urethane-urea blend.
US08337328B2	Golf club head with tungsten alloy sole component A hybrid wood-type golf club head (20) with a main body (22) and a minor body (24) is disclosed herein. The main body (26) has a front portion (30), a crown portion (25), a partial toe portion (27), a partial heel portion (26), a partial rear portion (28) and a partial sole portion (29). The minor body (24) preferably has a sole wall (31), a partial toe wall (33), a partial heel wall (32) and a partial rear wall (34). The minor body (24) is preferably welded to the main body (22). The minor body (24) preferably has a mass ranging from 80 grams to 130 grams. The minor body (24) is preferably from 55 weight percent to 35 weight percent of the total mass of the wood-type golf club head (20).
US08337327B2	Fairway wood type golf club head A fairway wood type golf club head and method for forming is disclosed herein. The golf club head preferably has a cast body, a compression molded crown, and weight pads. The weight pads can be manipulated to create different mass property configurations for the golf club head using the same body and crown.
US08337326B2	Extreme weighted hybrid and other wood-type golf clubs and golf club heads Wood-type golf club heads include: (a) a club head body member defining an interior chamber; (b) a weight system engaged with a rear perimeter portion of the club head body member; and (c) a connection system connecting the weight system with the club head body (e.g., with the rear of the ball striking face portion). The club heads further may include one or more damping members in the interior chamber to alter the sound and/or otherwise attenuate a vibrational response of the club head. The damping members may extend between the ball striking face and the weight system, and optionally may engage the connection system. The damping member(s) may constitute a foam material compressed within the interior chamber of the club head. Methods of making such golf club head structures also are described.
US08337322B2	Device for game A device for a game, the device attachable to a playing means and including a substantially annular gripping portion surrounding an inner member, said gripping portion including a first and a second end, the arrangement being such that with said first and second ends urged towards one another the gripping portion squeezes the inner member to more securely grip the playing means.
US08337311B2	Linked gaming machines with shared bonus game A base game may be a conventional video reel-type game. During play of the base game, at least a first progressive jackpot is accumulated by a first percentage of the wagers. A community Bingo game is concurrently initiated for all eligible players (players betting above the minimum bet) when an eligible player achieves a special symbol combination in the base game. The number of virtual Bingo cards dealt to each eligible player is based on the player's average bet. A central controller then random selects Bingo numbers, one at a time, and the first player to fill in a Bingo card wins the bonus game and an award. Only the player that triggered the bonus game is eligible for the first progressive jackpot. At various levels of the game, the players are motivated to bet above the minimum bet to be eligible for the bonus game and increase the player's chances of winning the bonus game.
US08337307B2	Computer-readable storage medium having stored therein music performance program, music performance apparatus, music performance method, and music performance system A game apparatus repeatedly calculates a gravity center position based on load values detected by respective load sensors of a load controller. The game apparatus sequentially reproduces each of measures of a musical piece by reproducing a next measure when the gravity center position moves beyond a reference line. In this case, the game apparatus changes a reproduction sound volume in accordance with the gravity center position and a speed at which the gravity center moves.
US08337305B2	Apparatus and method for managing user inputs in video games A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a computing device having a controller to obtain a user input that was inputted into a first accessory operably coupled with the computing device where the first accessory provides a user interface for user interaction with a video game, determine a language of an intended recipient of the user input based on an identity of the intended recipient, access a multi-lingual library comprising a plurality of words associated with the video game, match the user input to one or more words of the plurality of words of the multi-lingual library to generate a translated message in the determined language of the intended recipient, and provide the translated message to a second accessory for presentation to the intended recipient in real-time. Additional embodiments are disclosed.
US08337300B2	Controlling and rewarding wagering game skill A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In embodiments, the operations can include presenting a skill-based wagering game on a wagering game machine. The skill-based wagering game can have a limited winnable award amount for the skill-based wagering game. The operations can also include tracking skilled game goals that a player accomplishes during the skill-based wagering game and awarding the player from the limited winnable award amount. The operations can also include determining a surplus amount that was not earned from the limited winnable award amount, and awarding some, or all, of the surplus amount during subsequent activity. In some embodiments, the operations can also include allocating the surplus amount to wagering game pools, distributing the surplus amount as tokens based on triggered activities, and presenting game modifiers that enable players to enhance performance in a skill-based game.
US08337298B2	Gaming device having multiple different types of progressive awards A gaming system including a central server linked to a plurality of gaming machines. The gaming system includes a plurality of different types of progressive awards adapted to be provided to one or more players of the gaming machines in the gaming system. In one embodiment, one or more progressive awards are each associated with a progressive hit value, wherein when each progressive award increments to its respective progressive hit value, a triggering event occurs and such progressive award is provided to a player. In one embodiment, one or more progressive awards are each associated with a secondary game, wherein if the secondary game is triggered, a player is provided either a fixed award or one of the progressive awards associated with the secondary game based on a play of the secondary game. In one embodiment, one or more progressive awards are each associated with an outcome of a primary game, such as a designated symbol combination, wherein if the associated primary game outcome is generated, such progressive award is provided to a player.
US08337296B2	Method and apparatus for using upstream communication in a card shuffler A tray, serving as a transaction drawer, optimally fitted to X-ray inspection equipment for ease and efficiency of the operation. Yet, easy to handle by the operator and stackable for storage and having a test wedge to verify read outs by the X-ray machine, made out of translucent, plastic material, economically produced.
US08337295B2	Central determination gaming system with a game outcome generated by a gaming terminal and approved by a central controller A central determination gaming system including a plurality of gaming terminals in communication with a central controller. In one embodiment, upon initiation of a game at one of the gaming terminals, the gaming terminal randomly generates a proposed game outcome. The proposed game outcome is communicated to the central controller. The central controller determines if a pool of predetermined game outcomes includes the proposed game outcome. If the pool includes the proposed game outcome, the central controller authorizes the proposed game outcome to be provided to the player, flags the authorized game outcome from further authorizations and communicates the authorized game outcome to the gaming terminal. The gaming terminal then provides the authorized game outcome to the player. If the pool does not include the proposed game outcome, the central controller discards the proposed game outcome and instructs the gaming terminal to generate another proposed game outcome for authorization.
US08337293B2	Gaming system and a method of gaming A gaming system is disclosed which comprises a plurality of reels, each reel comprising a plurality of symbols from a set of symbols, a symbol selector arranged to select a plurality of symbols from each reel for display, a reel selector arranged to select at least one reel, a function allocator arranged to allocate a function to at least one selected reel such that each displayed symbol on said at least one selected reel acquires the function, and a game outcome generator arranged to determine a game outcome based on the displayed symbols and on the function allocated to said at least one selected reel. A corresponding method of gaming is also disclosed.
US08337288B2	Method and apparatus for conducting a game of chance A system and method are provided for playing a game of chance. The game of chance may include, for example, a lottery-type game. A result of the game of chance is revealed to a player in another medium. In one example, the result is revealed during multiple game instances of one or more online games. In one example, the online game is a reveal element game.
US08337287B2	Multiple-game gaming machine A gaming machine includes a gaming console. A display is mounted in the gaming console for displaying a wagering game and its result. A controller controls operation of the game, the controller displaying the result of a first game on the display, making payment of a prize if the first game has a prize winning result and, thereafter, irrespective of the result of the first game, varying a result displayed on the display without requiring any additional wager by a player whether before or after completion of the first game.
US08337286B2	Gaming machine with image display assistance feature With liquid crystal provided in front of reels, a gaming machine includes reels 3 having symbol placement faces shaped like curved surfaces on which a plurality of symbols are placed for variably displaying of a plurality of symbol rows each made up of the plurality of symbols, liquid crystal 504 being provided in front of and opposed to the reels 3 for displaying the symbols through a flat symbol transmission face and also displaying an image concerning game play, reel backlights 513 for illuminating the symbols, and reel side reflectors 320 being provided on a side of the reels 3 for covering an area sandwiched between the symbol placement face and the symbol transmission face on a face on the side of the reels 3 for assisting image display of the liquid crystal 504.
US08337282B2	Polishing pad The present invention provides a polishing pad which can improve qualities of an object to be polished by improving the flatness of the object. A polishing surface 1a of a polishing pad 1 is subjected to a mechanical process, such as buffing, so that the flatness of the surface is improved, and corrugations on the polishing surface have a cycle of 5 mm-200 mm and a largest amplitude of 40 μm or less. As a result, the flatness of the object polished by the polishing pad 1, such as a silicon wafer, is improved.
US08337274B1	Motor booster for toy vehicle A toy car and a remote control regulate the speed of the car. A source of supplemental power selectively energizes the drive motor thereby to selectively permit the vehicle to move faster than the normal speed. A sensor measures the voltage to the vehicle motor. After stepping up the voltage to the drive motor, and detecting a drive motor current increase in excess of the capability of vehicle, the source of supplemental power is disabled. When a normal low voltage state is detected, the source of supplemental power in the vehicle is enabled whereby the motor supply voltage is permitted to increase above a normal low voltage state permitting more power to be provided to motor.
US08337265B2	Amphibious yacht A streamlined amphibious, catamaran yacht is provided that may serve military or civilian purposes as a passenger or cargo carrying truck, limousine, bus, motor home or recreational vehicle on land, and extend those same functions on water, while matching the functionality and performance of similar length boats. The amphibious yacht includes a continuous reveal on the hull bottom from bow to transom that separates two asymmetric catamaran hulls. This reveal, or hull tunnel, may enhance sea stability and maneuverability, and create lift that helps the hull achieve plane and attain higher water speeds.
US08337248B1	Connector assembly A connector assembly includes a printed circuit board defining an inserting window and soldering holes adjacent to two sides of the inserting window, and an electrical connector assembled in the inserting window. The electrical connector includes an insulating body, terminals disposed in the insulating body and each having a soldering arm levelly extending rearward to stretch behind the insulating body, and a shell enclosing the insulating body and the terminals. Each side board of the shell has a substantial middle punched outward to form a soldering board extending levelly, and a lower part of a rear edge punched outward and then bent downward to form a soldering tail inserted downward in the soldering hole of the printed circuit board. The soldering boards of the shell and the soldering arms of the terminals are flush with one another to be levelly against and further soldered onto the printed circuit board.
US08337245B1	Electrical connector The present invention discloses an electrical connector. The electrical connector includes a terminal seat made of plastics, terminals formed in a mold on the terminal seat, a first insulative housing covered around the terminal seat, a second insulative housing sealed in a back-end of the first insulative housing, and a metal shell formed in a mold on the first insulative housing. A front surface of the first insulative housing backwardly defines a receptacle hole. The metal shell comprises an upper shell having two receiving shells respectively punch-pressed on two sides of the upper shell and comprises a lower shell defining two slots respectively corresponding to the two receiving shells. The upper shell and the lower shell are board-like and are welded together, and the slots are interconnected to the receptacle hole. The electrical connector of the present invention has a good waterproof function and a smaller metal shell.
US08337240B2	High-current plug-in connector The present invention relates to high-current plug-in connectors, in particular to unipolar high-current plug-in connectors for wind turbine generator systems, which can be arranged beside one another in a space-saving manner and can also meet high requirements on the current-carrying capacity. According to the invention, this is achieved in that cross-sections of which the longitudinal extent exceeds the transverse extent are selected for the plug-in and coupling contact. This means that the dimension in the transverse direction can be restricted and simultaneously the cable cross-section and the contact surface required from an electrical point of view are provided by the increased longitudinal extent. Moreover, the plug and the coupling comprise a visible mechanical coding, which prevents accidental reversal of the polarity of adjacently arranged cables.
US08337234B2	Locking connector and electronic apparatus A locking connector includes: a first head part; a plate-like base covering a plate surface of the first head part, a supporting part one end of which is supported by the base; first and second resilient parts positioned along the plate surface of the base from the supporting part, the first and second resilient part being resiliently deformable in a first direction substantially perpendicular to a direction C from the base end of the first head part to the fore-end of the first head part; first and second arm base end parts extending from end of the first and second resilient parts, respectively; first and second arm parts extending from the first and second arm base end parts, respectively, in the direction C; and first and second latching parts which are protrusions provided on the first and second arm parts, respectively.
US08337232B2	Electrical connector having a shielding in an opening in its base An electrical connector for electrically connecting a central processing unit (CPU) with a plurality of electronic components assembled thereunder and conductive pins surrounding the electronic components to a printed circuit board (PCB) comprises a base having a plurality of terminals received therein for contacting with the conductive pins of the CPU, a cover mounted on the base, an actuator actuating the cover sliding along the base and a shielding frame mounted on the base. The base has a first opening and a plurality of passageways surrounding the first opening for receiving the terminals. The cover has a second opening corresponding to the first opening. The shielding frame is tightly attached to the sidewalls of the first opening and received in the first and second openings to prevent terminals from electromagnetic interference (EMI) emitted from electronic components assembled under the CPU.
US08337229B2	Connector having a nut-body continuity element and method of use thereof A connector having a nut-body continuity element is provided, wherein the nut-body continuity element electrically couples a nut and a connector body, thereby establishing electrical continuity between the nut and the connector body. Furthermore, the nut-body continuity element facilitates grounding through the connector, and renders an electromagnetic shield preventing ingress of unwanted environmental noise.
US08337227B2	Water stop structure for wire harness A wire harness is divided in an arrangement direction, and terminals are connected to ends of wires of the divided wire harnesses and respectively mounted into first and second connectors. An intermediate connector is provided which includes a first connector fitting portion and a second connector fitting portion, into which the first and second connectors respectively are fit, and a partition wall is disposed between the first and second connector fitting portions. Intermediate terminals are inserted through the partition wall of the intermediate connector and electrical contact portions at both ends of the respective intermediate terminals project into the first and second connector fitting portions. A waterproofing agent is filled in a part of one or both of the first and second connector fitting portions in contact with the partition wall to embed parts of the intermediate terminals except the electrical contact portions therein.
US08337223B2	Mini-sim connector Connectors that may allow SIM cards to be easily removed and replaced, may be resistant to damage by an improper insertion of a SIM card, and may provide reliable mechanical performance. One example may provide a plunger system where a user can push on a plunger rod and eject a SIM card. Another example may provide contacts that are not damaged by improper insertion of a SIM card. Another example may provide a plastic housing, the housing reinforced by a metallic shield and having a relatively uniform thickness
US08337221B1	Transmission apparatus A transmission apparatus includes a wire cable and at least one connector. The wire cable has an insulating external layer, a differential signal line group, an AC power line group, and a metal shielding layer. The insulating external layer covers the differential signal line group, the AC power line group, and the metal shielding layer. The differential signal line group has a plurality of signal transmission lines. The AC power line group has a plurality of power lines. The metal shielding layer isolates the differential signal line group and the AC power line group. Each connector has an insulating external case and a plurality of conductive terminals. The insulating external case covers the conductive terminals. Each conductive terminal has a pin and the pins of the conductive terminals are electrically connected to the signal transmission lines, the power lines, and the metal shielding layer.
US08337220B2	Interior network ground In one embodiment, a grounding bracket is provided for apparatus, such as optical network terminals (ONTs), for grounding interior electrical wiring such as coaxial cables that are electrically coupled with fiber optic fed devices. The grounding bracket provides an electrically conductive pathway for the coaxial cable, which pathway carries current safely to a ground wire from the coaxial cable. The grounding bracket carries all of the current from the coaxial cable to the ground wire without relying upon any printed circuit board (PCB) traces of the ONT to carry current to the ground wire.
US08337218B2	High density surface mount connector A surface mount connector includes first terminals and second terminals to be mated to counterpart terminals of a mating counterpart connector. The first terminals and the second terminals are mounted in a housing in an alternating array. Each of the first terminals includes a contact portion to be connected to a first counterpart terminal, a fixing portion connected to an outer side of the contact portion and fixed to the housing, and a surface-mounting soldering portion connected to an outer side of the fixing portion. Each of the second terminals includes a contact portion to be connected to a second counterpart terminal, a fixing portion connected to an outer side of the connecting portion and fixed to the housing, and a surface-mounting soldering portion connected to a mounting-surface side end of the fixing portion.
US08337217B2	Socket for surface mount module In an example, an apparatus, such as a header pin, includes an insulator and a first pin disposed at least partially within the insulator. The first pin includes a first portion configured to electrically couple to a circuit board. A second portion is configured to releasably engage a pin of a surface mount module. The second portion includes a retention feature configured to selectively retain the second portion in engagement with the pin of the surface mount module. The second portion is movable between a first position and a second position, wherein the second portion is biased toward the first position. The second portion is movable to the second position to allow the pin of the surface mount module to pass by the retention feature. The second portion is configured to move back toward the first position to engage the pin of the surface mount module.
US08337214B2	Electrical connectors and light emitting device package and methods of assembling the same Electrical connectors for attachment to electrical contacts of light emitting devices as well as light emitting device packages and lamp assemblies that use such connectors are provided. Further, methods for assembling light emitting device packages that use such connectors are provided. The electrical connector, for example, can have a plug housing with an electrically conductive socket engaging connection for engaging a socket. The electrical connector can also have an electrically conductive member extending from the plug housing and connected to the socket engaging connection. The electrically conductive member can have an end distal from the plug housing that forms a contact base configured to attach to an electrical contact on a light emitting device.
US08337213B2	Intelligent toothbrush monitoring device A toothbrushing monitoring device for a user includes a sensor coupled with the toothbrush for measuring toothbrushing patterns, a recording device coupled with the sensor, and a comparator. The recording device records data relating to the user's preferred toothbrushing patterns in a first mode, which is used to establish toothbrushing pattern reference data. The comparator compares toothbrushing patterns measured by the sensor and the toothbrushing pattern reference data, which may be output to an output device. In one example, the sensor consists of only an accelerometer.
US08337205B2	Dental implant with interlocking and centering threads A dental implant device for insertion into a bore defined in bone for use with a prosthetic tooth or dental appliance includes an abutment with a plurality of male keys disposed about the distal end of the abutment capable of being affixed to the prosthetic tooth or dental appliance, an implantable anchor having a proximal and distal end, a plurality of female keyways defined into the proximal end of the anchor, the keyways capable of coupling to the male keys of the abutment and thereby preventing relative rotation of the abutment and anchor; an interlocking thread helically defined around a longitudinal axis of the anchor, the thread being adapted to couple to the bore defined in the bone and elements for coupling the abutment to the implant anchor.
US08337202B2	Apparatus for measuring dental occlusion An apparatus for measuring a dental occlusion includes: a position sensor (30) for detecting a position and posture of a lower jaw (12) relative to an upper jaw (11) and; an arithmetic circuit (31) for computing a posture relative to a translation distance in a state of occlusal contact. The computation is derived from the position and posture of the lower jaw (12) relative to the upper jaw (11) detected by the position sensor (30). The apparatus also includes a display monitor (32) for displaying the posture relative to the translation distance computed by the arithmetic circuit (31).
US08337200B2	Hand-held apparatus for curing resins A hand-held apparatus for curing resins includes a housing, a heat sink, a light-emitting unit, a power supply unit and a light transmission unit. The heat sink is installed in the housing. The light-emitting unit is installed on the heat sink. The light-emitting unit has at least one first light-emitting element for generating first wavelength light to cure the resins, at least one second light-emitting element for generating second wavelength light to generate white light, and at least one light-reflecting element surrounding the at least one first light-emitting element and the at least one second light-emitting element for reflecting the first wavelength light and the second wavelength light. The power supply unit provides power for the light-emitting unit. The light transmission unit is coupled to the housing for transmitting the first wavelength light and the second wavelength light to the resins.
US08337196B2	Locking device for an injection molding machine A locking device, releasably securing a tie bar to a platen, includes a housing with a bearing surface affixed to the platen coaxial with the tie bar, and a rotatable lock nut received in the housing and comprising: an inner bore with radial elements engaging the tie bar to transfer an axial clamp load to the lock nut, the elements defining an engagement portion along a lock nut first axial extent; an outer surface with at least a first step face abutting the bearing surface to transfer the axial damp load to the platen, the step face having a first radially outer extent; and a narrowing section having a second axial extent from a first position having a first diameter proximate the step face to a second position having a second lesser diameter spaced axially towards a second platen, the first diameter being less than the first radially outer extent.
US08337194B2	Air cartridge devices and methods of using same Air cartridge devices and methods of using the air cartridge devices are provided. In an embodiment, the present disclosure provides an air cartridge device comprising an elongated cylindrical shaft defining a first elongated end portion and a second elongated end portion. The second elongated end portion can defining one or more apertures. The air cartridge device can be incorporated into a blow molding apparatus for blow molding bottles.
US08337193B2	Apparatus for unscrambling and aligning preforms The apparatus for unscrambling and aligning preforms comprises two substantially parallel alignment rollers (121) and rotary pushing means (122) mounted above the said alignment rollers for pushing back incorrectly oriented preforms or nested preforms, and is characterized by at least one of the following characteristics (i) or (ii): (i) it comprises stopping means (30, 31) mounted above the alignment rollers (121) for stopping correctly oriented nested preforms (P2/P3) or an incorrectly oriented preform or incorrectly oriented nested preforms (P4/P5) underneath the rotary pushing means (122) until the rotary pushing means push back the stopped preform(s), said stopping means (30, 31) being adapted for letting a correctly oriented preform slide onto the alignment rollers, (ii) it comprises guiding means (34) for lifting an incorrectly oriented preform or incorrectly oriented nested preforms (P4/P5) into contact with the rotary pushing means (122) said guiding means (34) being adapted for letting a correctly oriented preform slide onto the alignment rollers.
US08337190B2	Method and apparatus for incrementally stretching a web A method and apparatus is provided which uses activation members for incrementally stretching a web at a low strain rate. The activation members include an activation belt and a single activation member wherein the activation belt and single activation member comprise a plurality of teeth and grooves that complement and engage one another at a depth of engagement in a deformation zone. The depth of engagement can be controlled to increase linearly over at least a portion of the deformation zone such that a web interposed between the activation belt and the single activation member in the deformation zone is incrementally stretched at a low rate of strain.
US08337184B2	Single screw compressor structure A single screw compressor structure includes a screw rotor and a casing. The screw rotor has a plurality of helical grooves formed in an outer peripheral surface thereof. The casing houses the screw rotor. The screw rotor includes a main tapered portion having a tapered outer diameter that becomes larger from an intake side toward a discharge side of the screw rotor, and a reversely tapered portion that is located on a downstream side of a maximum outer diameter portion of the outer surface and on the discharge side of the main tapered portion. The reversely tapered portion has a reversely tapered outer diameter that becomes smaller as the reversely tapered portion extends away from the maximum outer diameter portion.
US08337183B2	Oil return valve for a scroll compressor A valve for selectively allowing the return of oil from a discharge plenum to a suction plenum includes a passage which is selectively opened or blocked by a valve spool. The valve spool sees a pressure from a discharge pressure location upstream of a discharge check valve on one face, and a discharge pressure from a discharge plenum on an opposed face. While the compressor is running, the two pressures should be relatively equal. The face which sees the pressure from the chamber upstream of the check valve is larger than the face which sees the pressure from the discharge plenum. Thus, when the compressor is running, the valve spool is biased to a first position at which it allows oil return from the discharge plenum to the suction plenum. However, upon shutdown of the compressor, the pressure in the chamber upstream of the discharge valve drops. The valve spool will be driven to a second position at which it blocks communication for oil return.
US08337181B2	Rotary pump with deformable rollers The claimed invention relates to rotary pumps. The claimed rotary pump comprises: an hollow housing having a side wall and end-face walls; a shaft rotatably positioned in the housing essentially in parallel with the side wall, the distance between the housing side wall and the shaft is variable; deformable rollers that are arranged and adapted to move, when the shaft rotates, between the housing side-wall and the shaft, while moving their deformation being maximal in the region of the minimal distance between the housing side-wall and the shaft; and sealed cavities, each of which cavities being defined by two contiguous rollers, the housing's side wall and end-face walls; the sealed cavities being adapted to communicate with the suction port as their volume increases, and communicate with the delivery port as their volume decreases. The technical result: an enhanced delivery capacity—with simultaneous decrease in dimensions and mass; an improved cost-effectiveness, extended longevity and more simple operation.
US08337177B2	Valve plate for a compressor, and method for cooling compressed air in a valve plate of a compressor A valve plate includes a cooling medium duct for a compressor used for generating compressed air. From the perspective of a piston chamber of the compressor, at least part of the cooling medium duct extends between the piston chamber and an air discharge valve that is arranged in the valve plate. A method for cooling compressed air in a valve plate of a compressor is also provided.
US08337176B2	Tandem compressors with common intermediate port A compressor assembly includes at least two tandem compressors. Tandem compressors have at least one common suction manifold, communicating a source of working fluid to be compressed by each of at least two compressors, and at least one common discharge manifold communicating a compressed fluid downstream for further use. A common intermediate pressure manifold communicates with intermediate pressure ports in at least two compressors. The intermediate manifold may communicate fluid to or out of the at least two compressors. There is normally no direct communication between suction and discharge manifolds.
US08337170B2	System for raising water from an underground source A system for raising water from an underground source of water to an aboveground tank includes a plurality of capillary tubes for raising water from the underground source to a first water level, a pipe for raising water from the first water level to an above ground tank, the aboveground tank is painted black to absorb the sun's rays and is tilted with an elevated proximal end so that water in the tank runs down to its distal end. A tap is provided in the distal end for drawing water out of the tank. The tank also includes two one way valves, one in an upper portion of the distal end for allowing heated air to escape and one in a lower portion of the distal end to allow water to be drawn up into the tank as heated air cools. A solar powered rechargeable battery can be used to power a positive displacement pump.
US08337166B2	Pump and pump control circuit apparatus and method A method and apparatus for a pump and a pump control system. The apparatus includes a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor coupled to a pump control system. For the method of the invention, the microcontroller provides a pulse-width modulation control signal to an output power stage in order to selectively control the power provided to the pump.
US08337159B2	Airfoils with automatic pitch control An airfoil arranged for use in a fluid flow of varying direction relative to the airfoil, has arranged thereon a plural axis hinge for automatic adjustment of the angle of pitch of the airfoil. The airfoil can be applied to a rotary crossflow device for use in a fluid flow of varying apparent flow direction, an oscillating device for use in a fluid flow, a force generation device for use in a fluid flow of varying direction, or a flow control device for use in a fluid flow of alternating direction.
US08337158B1	Turbine blade with tip cap A turbine rotor blade with a tip cap section bonded to a tip end of the blade airfoil section, the tip cap section forming a separate cooling passage for the blade tip with a series of impingement chambers and diffusion chambers extending from a leading edge cooling air supply channel to a trailing edge exist hole. The chambers are formed by slanted ribs and a thin thermal skin is bonded to the ribs and upper and bottom surfaces to form an airfoil surface for the tip cap section. a blade with a damaged tip section can be repaired by removing the damaged section and bonding a tip cap section to the remaining surface of the blade to form a reusable rotor blade.
US08337157B2	Blower wheel The invention relates to a blower wheel, especially a plastic blower wheel for a cylindrical rotor radial fan for the heating and air-conditioning systems of a motor vehicle. Said blower wheel comprises a plurality of blades (2), and the flow channel (3) between two blades (2) is embodied in such a way that it is convergent on the inflow side, divergent on the outflow side, and distinctively shaped.
US08337152B2	Centrifugal pump, a shaft sleeve and a stationary seal member The present invention relates to a centrifugal pump, a shaft sleeve and a stationary seal member for a static seal used in connection with a dynamic sealing of a centrifugal pump. The invention relates to a static seal the clearance of which may be adjusted while the pump is running. Especially the invention discusses the novel structure of such a static seal. A characterizing feature of a centrifugal pump comprising a pump housing (8), a shaft (6), an impeller attached on the shaft, a dynamic sealing (4) having a sealing chamber (12) and a repeller (14) mounted on the shaft (6), and a static seal (2) arranged in a shaft space (42) behind the dynamic sealing (4) as seen from the direction of the impeller, said static seal (54, 54′) comprising an axially adjustable seal cover (56) including a stationary seal member; and a rotary seal member arranged on the shaft (6), is that the seal cover (56) is provided with a flexible seal member (77, 92), whose counter member (68) is arranged in connection with a shaft sleeve (60) arranged on the shaft (6).
US08337148B2	Gas turbine engine compressor arrangement A gas turbine engine includes a low pressure compressor section and a high pressure compressor section. A low pressure turbine drives the low pressure compressor section. A gear arrangement is driven by the low pressure turbine to in turn drive a fan section. A pressure ratio across the low pressure compressor section is between about 4-8, and a pressure ratio across the high pressure compressor section is between about 8-15. In a separate feature, a compressor case includes a front compressor case portion and a rear compressor case portion, with the rear compressor case portion being axially further from an inlet case than the front compressor case portion. A support member extends between the fan section and the front compressor case portion.
US08337147B2	Gas turbine engine compressor arrangement A gas turbine engine includes a low pressure compressor section and a high pressure compressor section. A low pressure turbine drives the low pressure compressor section. A gear arrangement is driven by the low pressure turbine to in turn drive a fan section. A pressure ratio across the low pressure compressor section is between about 4-8, and a pressure ratio across the high pressure compressor section is between about 8-15. In a separate feature, a compressor case includes a front compressor case portion and a rear compressor case portion, with the rear compressor case portion being axially further from an inlet case than the front compressor case portion. A support member extends between the fan section and the front compressor case portion.
US08337145B2	Quiet blower apparatus and system and method for reducing blower noise A blower assembly including a motor (4), an impeller (6) and a volute (8) that is configured such that an inlet chamber (112) of the volute and an outlet chamber (114) of the volute are divided from one another by an airtight membrane (128a-b) and the membrane is configured to allow the transmission of pressure waves between the inlet and outlet chambers.
US08337144B2	Method for detecting rotating stall in a compressor A system and method is provided for detecting and controlling rotating stall in the diffuser region of a compressor. A pressure transducer is placed in the gas flow path downstream of the impeller, preferably in the compressor discharge passage or the diffuser, to measure the sound or acoustic pressure phenomenon. Next, the signal from the pressure transducer is processed either using analog or digital techniques to determine the presence of rotating stall. Rotating stall is detected by comparing the detected energy amount, which detected energy amount is based on the measured acoustic pressure, with a predetermined threshold amount corresponding to the presence of rotating stall. Finally, an appropriate corrective action is taken to change the operation of the compressor in response to the detection of rotating stall.
US08337139B2	Method and system for reducing the impact on the performance of a turbomachine operating an extraction system A method and system for increasing the efficiency of a turbomachine having an extraction system is provided. The extraction system may have multiple extraction ports from which the working fluid of the turbomachine is extracted to meet extraction load requirements of an independent process. The method and system may enable a control system to optimally determine the which extraction ports to draw the working fluid from for meeting the extraction load requirement. The optimal location may be determined by utilizing the data on the load requirement, where the extraction load requirement may be operationally distinct from the turbomachine load.
US08337137B2	Transfer module for transferring parts between work stations A transfer apparatus has a vertical guide rod, on which a vertical carriage slides, which is integrated with a horizontal carriage, both of which support a transfer bar and gripping members that are responsible for the automatic handling of stamped parts in process. The transfer apparatus has a shaft limiter, below which there is a right angle lever with a stop, and a horizontal guide rod where the horizontal carriage slides. The transfer apparatus has a drive lever to drive a connecting rod which is connected to the right angle lever and has an adjustable stop toward a fixed stop, which limits the travel of the horizontal carriage in the Y-axis direction. The transfer apparatus in question has a continuous operating cycle and is controlled by a central processing unit.
US08337135B2	Apparatus, system and method for towing a vehicle An apparatus, system and method allows for the towing of a vehicle. Specifically, the apparatus cradles an exposed wheel hub of a vehicle having had a tire removed. The wheel hub sits within the cradle or well, while the apparatus is disposed on a tow truck or a tow dolly. The tow truck or tow dolly safely moves the vehicle without damaging the vehicle.
US08337134B2	Device and method for stacking and/or conveying a plurality of flat substrates A device for stacking a plurality of silicon wafers has an upright machine carrier for holding a plurality of silicon wafers, the silicon wafers being provided in a horizontal position in the machine carrier. The device has three identical loading cassettes for introducing several silicon wafers therein. The machine carrier has holding devices for the loading cassettes. The loading cassettes have a lower support surface for putting silicon wafers on in stack-like fashion, and a rear side wall running substantially perpendicular thereto. The loading cassette is designed in such a way that the side opposite the rear side wall, and the top side are freely accessible.
US08337133B2	Segregating wafer carrier types in semiconductor storage devices A system for managing the entry of a wafer carrier into a stocker in a semiconductor manufacturing operation is disclosed. The system comprises a stocker that accepts wafer carriers via one or more input ports. The present invention provides a means for detecting the presence of a wafer carrier at the input port, means for identifying the type of the wafer carrier, and means for executing an action sequence if the stocker is not compatible with those wafer carriers. Upon detecting an erroneous condition, an action sequence is executed which may include prevention entry of the wafer carrier, and notifying an operator.
US08337132B2	Adjustment element The present invention provides an adjustment element 1 with which a component can be fastened and can be positioned in space. The adjustment element has the following features: a banjo bolt 10 with an external thread 12 with which the component holder 50 can be positioned in the axial direction of the banjo bolt 10, an inner element 20 which is arranged within the banjo bolt 10 and to which the banjo bolt 10 is rotatably fastened, and a washer 30 which is held between the banjo bolt 10 and inner element 20 in a manner such that it can be laterally displaced in the axial direction of the inner element 20 such that the adjustment element 1 can be laterally positioned and can be fixed with a fastening means 40 reaching through the washer 30.
US08337128B2	Monitoring fastening loading A retrofit system for providing a load indicator on a foundation bolt. The system includes a fastener having a fastener head, gauge length and central fastener bore in the gauge length and head. A datum rod is anchored in the central bore with a free datum rod being moveable longitudinally relative to the fastener head during elongation of the fastener gauge length. An internally threaded fastener portion below the central fastener bore is configured to thread over a foundation bolt. A compression sleeve positioned over the foundation bolt is configured to receive the load indicating fastener therein and to bear the compressive forces of the fastening. Elongation of the gauge length as the fastener is tightened onto the stud is manifest as displacement of the datum rod end, which displacement is measured to provide an indication of fastener loading.
US08337126B2	Method for tying packaged goods to a pallet The method makes use of four top corner plates (3), four bottom corner plates (4) and five center plates (5). Each plate (3, 4 and 5) has a number of holes (2) that accept and retain swivel connectors (1) and adjustable connector straps (8) that mechanically connect the corner plates (3) and (4) and center plates (5) and in this manner allow for the even restraining of the goods (7) packed on the pallet (14).
US08337118B2	Road finisher A road finisher (1) and a mobile supply unit (4) are described, between which a feed conveyor (7) with a discharge end (7a) is provided. Road finisher (1) and supply unit (4) are movable independently of each other in travel direction (F), and their relative positions with respect to each other can be detected by a sensor means (8, 18). To automate such a system as much as possible and to make it useable under all paving situations, it is suggested that the sensor means (8, 18) should include a position sensor (9) which has assigned thereto at least two mutually spaced-apart reference elements (10) for determining the position of the discharge end (7a) in, and transversely to, the direction of travel (F).
US08337101B2	Imaging device An imaging device to which a support can be attached includes a support attachment unit and a support body unit. The support attachment unit includes a first threaded hole configured to be attached to the support, and an exposure face formed around the entrance of the first threaded hole. The support body unit includes a housing having an opening configured to expose the exposure face and an outer surface formed around the opening, and movably supports the support attachment unit. The support attachment unit is disposed at a first position when the support is not attached, and is disposed at a second position when the support is attached. The exposure face is disposed more to the inside of the housing than the outer surface when the support attachment unit is disposed at the first position.
US08337093B2	Fiber optic connectors and methods for making the same Fiber optic connectors and components for fiber optic connectors with improved side-loading performance are disclosed along with methods for making the same. The fiber optic connector includes a ferrule and a ferrule holder where the ferrule holder may be disposed within a housing. The ferrule holder has a forward portion with a spherical feature for cooperating with the housing, thereby allowing relative movement therebetween. Specifically, the spherical feature of the ferrule holder permits rotational translation of the ferrule holder in two degrees of freedom relative to the housing and inhibits the longitudinal translation of the ferrule holder in same two degrees of freedom relative to the housing, thereby providing improved side-loading performance.
US08337092B2	Retainer-equipped roller A retainer-equipped roller includes a retainer (12) having a pair of ring parts (14) separated in an axis O direction and column parts (15) arranged circumferentially at regular intervals so as to form pockets (22) and connect the pair of ring parts (14), and a plurality of rollers (11) arranged in the pockets. The roller (11) has a chamfered part (13) provided between a roller end face and a roller rolling surface (11t). The column part (15) is positioned on a radial outer side of a pitch circle PCD of the roller (11), and a distance between the circumferentially adjacent column parts (15 and 15) is smaller than a diameter of the roller (11). The pair of ring parts (14) has a pair of projection members (16) projecting such that their tip ends are opposed so as to come close to each other, in circumferentially the same position as the column part (15), and in a position on a radially inner side of the pitch circle PCD of the roller (11). The tip ends of the pair of projection members (16) abut on the chamfered parts (13) provided at both ends of the roller (11) and hold the roller between the pair of ring parts (14).
US08337087B2	Mechanical joint assembly and a method of assembling such an assembly A joint assembly includes an inner ring, an intermediate member housing the inner ring about a joint axis and, an outer body retaining the intermediate member. The intermediate member defines two first surfaces formed by cylindrical portions having the same first axis of revolution which intersects the joint axis. The outer body defines two surfaces formed by cylindrical portions having the same second axis of revolution. When the assembly is in an assembled state, the first axis of revolution coincides with the second axis of revolution and the first and second surfaces cooperate to enable the intermediate member to rotate relative to the outer body about the first axis of revolution but prevent the intermediate member from moving parallel to the joint axis or parallel to an axis orthogonal to the joint axis and to the second axis of revolution.
US08337086B2	Bearing apparatus, spindle motor, and disk drive apparatus A bearing apparatus includes a shaft, a thrust cup including an annular potion and a cylindrical portion, a rotating member including a through hole defined therein, and a lubricating oil. A second gap defined between a lower surface of the rotating member and an upper surface of the annular portion of the thrust cup includes a first region in communication with a capillary seal portion, and a second region positioned radially inward of the first region and having an axial dimension smaller than that of the first region. A lower end portion of the through hole is open at a location radially outwardly away from a boundary between the first and second regions, so that a local circulation of the lubricating oil arises within the first region during rotation of the rotating member.
US08337082B2	Systems and methods for auto-calibration of resistive temperature sensors The invention relates to systems and methods for calibrating and using resistance temperature detectors. In one embodiment, the system includes a calibration circuit comprising a resistance temperature detector in a bridge circuit with at least one potentiometer, and a programmable gain amplifier coupled to the bridge circuit. Embodiments of the invention further comprise methods for calibrating the bridge circuit and the programmable gain amplifier for use with the resistance temperature detector and methods for determining the self heating voltage of the bridge circuit.
US08337081B1	Sensor assembly for mounting a temperature sensor to a tank A method and system to position a non-immersion temperature sensor relative to a water heater tank is disclosed. An illustrative but non-limiting example may be found in a mounting bracket that includes a body that has a sensor portion configured to receive at least a portion of a temperature sensor assembly. When installed, the mounting bracket may include a biasing element to bias the temperature sensor assembly towards the water heater tank. The bias element may help the temperature sensor assume a proper position relative to the water heater tank, despite variations in equipment that may exist in the field.
US08337076B2	Tourbillon and timepiece movement including the same The tourbillon mechanism is characterized in that it includes a toothed wheel (127; 227) and at least two toothed elements (125A, 125B; 225A, 225B, 225C) pivoting in the carriage (103), the toothed wheel, which meshes with the escape pinion (111 B), being freely mounted in the carriage in a coaxial position, and said at least two toothed elements (125A, 125B; 225A, 225B, 225C) being regularly spaced around said toothed wheel (127; 227) with which said toothed elements mesh, said at least two toothed elements each being designed to mesh with the fixed toothing (119; 219), so as to connect the escape pinion to the fixed toothing.
US08337075B2	Single push-piece chronograph A chronograph includes a chronograph train, means for coupling the train and a device for controlling the coupling means, which includes:a pivotably mounted shuttle, a first angular sector provided with two notches defining first and second stable angular positions, and a second angular sector that includes cut out portions,an elastic member cooperating with the notches to keep the shuttle in one of the stable positions, anda push-piece cooperating with the cut out portions to pivot the shuttle, via a first application of pressure, from the first stable position to the second stable position, and via a second application of pressure, from the second stable position to a third intermediate angular position.
US08337069B2	Lightbar device and display module thereof A lightbar device includes a plastic frame, a back plate, a lightbar, and at least one fixing pad. At least one positioning hole is formed on the back plate. The lightbar is slidably disposed between the back plate and the plastic frame. The fixing pad includes a base, a side board, and a first clamping portion. A recession is formed at the base. The recession is used for engaging with the positioning hole so as to fix the fixing pad onto the back plate. The side board is formed at a side of the base. The first clamping portion is formed at a position of the base opposite to the side board. The first clamping portion is used for clamping a first side of the lightbar cooperatively with the side board.
US08337066B2	Backlight module A backlight module includes a light guide plate, a first light module, and a second light module. The light guide plate includes first troughs and second troughs on opposite sides. The first light module includes a first substrate and first LEDs thereon. An opaque element is disposed on each first gap between two adjacent first LEDs, each first LED is embedded in one first trough. The second light module includes a second substrate and second LEDs thereon. An opaque element is disposed on each second gap between two adjacent second LEDs, and each second LED is embedded in one second trough. Each first LED is disposed to one second gap, and each second LED is disposed in one first gap. Light from first LED is absorbed by the opaque element on the second substrate, and that from the second LED is absorbed by the opaque element on the first substrate.
US08337064B2	Lamp mounting structure and vehicle to which lamp is mounted with the use of the same A weak portion (connection release device) is provided in an upper connection portion in which a headlamp, which is a lamp, is connected to a radiator support, which is a vehicle body, and therefore, when an impact load is applied from above a vehicle, an upper portion of the headlamp is detached from the radiator support. In a lower connection portion in which a lower portion of the headlamp is connected to a bumper reinforcement, which is a vehicle body, a lower connection device maintains a connection between the lower portion of the headlamp and the bumper reinforcement. When the impact load is applied in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle, the lower connection device releases the connection between the headlamp and the bumper reinforcement.
US08337061B2	Illuminating device for vehicles An illuminating device for vehicles, in particular a tail light, with a housing containing at least one light source, a support accommodating the light source, and a reflector, and with a diffusion lens for covering an opening of the housing. The reflector, which is provided with an electrically conductive coating, is assigned charge dissipation path in such a manner that, when electrostatic charging of the reflector occurs, a dissipation current flows along the dissipation path to a connection to earth of the illuminating device.
US08337057B2	Flameless candle with threaded insert and method for assembling the same According to embodiments of the present invention, a flameless candle is claimed, depicted, and described. The candle has a candle shell, which includes a sidewall (such as a waxen sidewall) surrounding a hollow region. There is an opening through the bottom of the candle shell leading into the hollow region. This flameless candle also has an electronics insert. The insert has a housing. At least one thread (for example, an exterior thread or male thread) is arranged on a lateral portion of the housing. This thread (or threads as used herein) can be rotated in response to a torque force on the electronics insert. The rotation causes the electronics insert to be drawn through the opening and into the hollow region, thereby substantially securing the electronics insert to the candle shell.
US08337053B2	Lens and illumination device having same A lens applied to a light emitting element includes a first surface profile and a second surface profile opposite to the first surface profile. The first surface profile defines a first trench facing the light emitting element, and the first trench includes a bottom curved surface serving as a light incident surface. The second surface profile includes a top curved surface, and serves as a light emitting surface. Both the bottom and the top curved surfaces are mirror symmetric to the first suppositional plane P1 (X=0), and mirror asymmetric to the second suppositional plane P2 (Y=0) to cooperatively adjust light from the light emitting element to obtain an asymmetric light field. An illumination device having the lens is further provided.

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