| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08373794B2 |
Photo sensor array using controlled motion
A movable sensor including a plurality of photo pixel sites arranged in an array comprising a photo sensor and a neutral density filter filtering the photo sensor. Each of the neutral density filters have a density value that are graduated over a range of densities. The sensor is linearly movable across an image. Each point in the image is exposed to at least one pixel site with the graduated density values and each of the photo pixel sites of the array is exposed to a same light input during a time span of exposure, such that the image is captured at a defined range of exposure values and can be combined into a single high dynamic range image. |
| US08373791B2 |
Camera system, lens barrel, camera body, and camera system control method
A camera system includes: a focus detection controller that is capable of performing control for an imaging optics according to a plurality of focus detection systems; and a focusing controller that controls focusing of the imaging optics. And the focus detection controller transmits, to the focusing controller, identification information that specifies which of the plurality of focus detection systems is performed. |
| US08373787B2 |
Image processing apparatus, image processing system, control method of the image processing apparatus, and recording medium having recorded thereon a computer program for executing the control program
An image sensing apparatus sets a trimming area for an image file obtained by image sensing. An image processing apparatus acquires the image file to which the trimming area has been added, and displays the acquired image file on a display unit. The image processing apparatus then sets a new trimming area for the displayed image file, and distinguishably displays the trimming area set by the image sensing apparatus and the trimming area set by the image processing apparatus on the display unit. |
| US08373782B2 |
Image sensor including noise removing unit, image pickup device having the image sensor, and image sensing method performed in the image sensor
An image sensor including a noise removing unit may sense images accurately by measuring the amount of noise generated when the image sensor does not perform a sensing operation, storing information about the measured noise amount in each pixel, and removing photocharge corresponding to the information about the measured noise amount during image sensing. |
| US08373781B2 |
Image pixel employing floating base readout concept, and image sensor and image sensor array including the image pixel
A pixel of an image sensor includes only two signal lines per pixel, a pinned photodiode for sensing light, a floating base bipolar transistor, and no reset and address transistors. The floating base bipolar transistor provides the pixel with a gain, which can increase pixel sensitivity and reduce noise. The pixel also incorporates a vertical blooming control structure for an efficient blooming suppression. The output terminals of the pixel are coupled to a common column output line terminated by a special current sensing correlated double sampling circuit, which is used for subtraction of emitter leakage current. Based on this structure, the pixel has high sensitivity, high response uniformity, low noise, reduced size, and efficient layout. |
| US08373778B2 |
High speed noise detection and reduction in active pixel sensor arrays
A system for detecting high speed noise in active pixel sensors includes a photodiode for receiving low levels of light, a reset transistor, an amplifier transistor, a row select transistor, and a high-speed analog-to-digital converter. The reset transistor gate receives a reset signal, and the reset transistor drain receives a reset voltage. The amplifier transistor gate is connected to the photodiode and the reset transistor's source. The amplifier transistor receives a supply voltage at the drain terminal. The row select transistor gate terminal receives a row select signal. The row select drain terminal is connected to the amplifier transistor source terminal. The high-speed analog-to-digital converter includes an analog input port connected to the row select transistor source and a digital output port capable of resolving high-speed excitation events received by the photodiode. |
| US08373777B2 |
Image processing apparatus and image processing method
An image processing apparatus includes a region extracting section that extracts a first predetermined region including a target pixel in a current frame and a second predetermined region including a pixel located at the same position as the target pixel in a previous frame, a motion vector calculating section that calculates a motion vector of the first predetermined region with respect to the previous frame based on part or all of the pixels in the first predetermined region and part of the pixels in the second predetermined region, a filter coefficient determining section that determines a filter coefficient for a plurality of pixels in the second predetermined region based on the motion vector, and a noise reducing section that reduces noise in the target pixel based on the plurality of pixels in the second predetermined region and the filter coefficient. |
| US08373775B2 |
Apparatus, method and software stored on a computer-readable storage medium, for reducing noise in an image
An apparatus, method, and software stored on a computer-readable storage medium, for correctly reduce noise included in image data regardless of the characteristics of the image data. The noise reduction apparatus and method employ a determinator for determining whether a target pixel of image data corresponds to a flat portion, an edge portion, or a gradation portion based on a pixel value of the target pixel and pixel values of neighboring pixels of the target pixel; and a noise reduction unit for reducing noise included in the image data based on a result of the determining by the determinator. |
| US08373770B2 |
Imaging device, imaging method, and program including automatically controlling an interval of continuous photographing
In order to solve a problem in which a stable and continuous photographing operation cannot be realized, for example, the continuous photographing operation stops irregularly or the like in an imaging device, the imaging device includes imaging means for generating image data, a first buffer for storing the image data, and control means for controlling an interval of photographing by the imaging means to maintain a constant or according to a continuous function which decreases monotonically with respect to a remaining capacity of the first buffer. |
| US08373764B2 |
Electronic device for stitching different images into an integrated image and image processing method thereof
An electronic device includes an image capture module, an image processing module, and a display module. The image capture module includes a first capture unit for capturing a first image and a second capture unit for capturing a second image. The first capture unit is simultaneously enabled with the second capture unit. The second image has an overlapping view with the first image. The image processing module includes an image cropping unit and an image stitching unit. The image cropping unit crops the first image to keep a first section of the first image, and further crops the second image to keep a second section of the second image. The first section is different from the second section. The image stitching unit stitches the first section and the second section into an integrated image. The display module displays the integrated image. |
| US08373763B2 |
Self calibration of extrinsic camera parameters for a vehicle camera
A system and method for calibrating a camera on a vehicle as the vehicle is being driven. The method includes identifying at least two feature points in at least two camera images from a vehicle that has moved between taking the images. The method then determines a camera translation direction between two camera positions. Following this, the method determines a ground plane in camera coordinates based on the corresponding feature points from the images and the camera translation direction. The method then determines a height of the camera above the ground and a rotation of the camera in vehicle coordinates. |
| US08373762B2 |
Adjustable handle, particularly for camera
The invention relates to a handle (1) for actuating a device such as a video camera. The handle includes indentations (3) for accommodating the fingers of the user. An adjustment system (5, 7, 8, 9, 11) enables the width (11, 12, 13, 14) of at least a portion of said indentations to be modified in order to adapt it to the width of the user's fingers. |
| US08373759B2 |
White space spectrum sensor for television band devices
A television band device has DTV pilot signal detection logic that generates DTV pilot signal detection decisions associated with a monitored television channel. A wireless microphone detection logic generates wireless microphone detection decisions associated with the monitored television channel. A sensing manager receives DTV pilot signal detection decisions and the wireless microphone detection decisions and analyzes at least one the respective decisions to determine whether the monitored television channel is available white space. |
| US08373754B2 |
Method and system for evaluating brightness values in sensor images of image-evaluating adaptive cruise control systems
A method and an arrangement for evaluating sensor images of an image-evaluating surroundings-detection system on a moved carrier, preferably a vehicle (1), are proposed, wherein areas in the sensor images captured by a camera (4) which are dark in relation to the surroundings are evaluated in chronologically successive evaluation steps in order to determine whether said dark areas are moving toward the carrier at the speed of said carrier, and in that these dark areas are detected as shadows (7) of a static object and corresponding signaling is performed. |
| US08373750B2 |
Device and method for transferring motion pictures to a photosensitive material
A device for transferring full frame motion pictures, comprising a series of frames, to an photosensitive material, comprises a digital head comprising a light source, a color filter, at least one device for light modulation, at least one lens for projecting the modulated light onto the photosensitive material, processing electronics and software for processing the signal input, and for transport and shutter device synchronization, a shutter device, a transport device adapted for exposing, section for section, the sections of the photosensitive material corresponding to each of the picture frames to the modulated projected light, a user interface, and a graphical computer interface connected to the digital head. The motion pictures to be transferred to the photosensitive material may have a digital or analogue representation. A corresponding method for transferring full frame motion pictures to a photosensitive material is also presented. |
| US08373749B2 |
Vision system using strobed illumination
A vision system for viewing the end face of product (64) mounted in a machine and which in use produces measurements relating to the area of the end face and of at least one constituent part of the product which is visible in the said end face. The system comprises means for illuminating a region containing the end face and scanning (78) means for producing a video signal from an image of the illuminated region. The region is illuminated consecutively using first one (50) and then the other (58, 60) of two strobed light sources. |
| US08373737B2 |
Optical head and electronic device
A light emitting substrate has a plurality of first light emitting portions arranged in a main scanning direction and a second light emitting portion disposed in a direction intersecting the main scanning direction with respect to the array of the plurality of first light emitting portions. A lens array has a plurality of first lenses, each of which is disposed to face each of the plurality of first light emitting portions, and a second lens for the second light emitting portion. A direction of the emitted light from the second light emitting portion has a slope with respect to a straight line which extends perpendicularly from a light emitting face of the corresponding second light emitting portion. |
| US08373733B2 |
Thermal printer
A thermal printer avoids or reduces difficult to correct problems caused by recording paper that has passed the printing position leaving the paper transportation path. A printing mechanism has a head mounting plate that carries a line thermal head, a front guide plate disposed downstream from the head mounting plate, a platen roller that defines the printing position A, and a back guide member disposed downstream from the platen roller. The head mounting plate and front guide plate have interlocking parts that interlock with each other widthwise to the paper transportation path. A paper detector that detects entry of the recording paper 45 is disposed to a gap E between the back guide member and platen roller. When the paper detector detects the recording paper 45, a rotation control unit stops the platen roller. |
| US08373731B2 |
Driving method for reducing image sticking
A driving method with reducing image sticking effect is disclosed. The driving method includes applying a voltage on the data lines for trapping impurities crossing the data lines and lowering the degree of the image sticking effect, and applying different asymmetric waveforms to different data lines for trapping impurities crossing the data lines and lowering the degree of the image sticking effect. |
| US08373729B2 |
Kickback compensation techniques
A technique for reducing the kickback voltage error between two or more common voltage signal lines in a display device is provided. The kickback voltage error may be caused by driving a first and second common voltage at different levels. In one embodiment, a common voltage offset may be applied to the second common voltage such that the magnitude of the voltage kickback error is approximately equalized at the maximum and minimum pixel voltages for pixels coupled to the second common voltage. A data voltage offset, which may be determined based upon gray level data, may be applied to the data voltage supplied to the pixels coupled to the second common voltage. The foregoing technique may compensate for the kickback voltage error between the first and second common voltage lines, thereby reducing visual artifacts and improving color accuracy of the display. |
| US08373726B2 |
Character highlighting control apparatus, display apparatus, highlighting display control method, and computer program
The present invention provides a character highlighting control apparatus including a character pixel extractor and a highlighting degree controller. The character pixel extractor is configured to extract a pixel corresponding to a character part from input image data. The highlighting degree controller is configured to carry out control in such a way that a maximum emission luminance of a display device is linked with input image data, to thereby selectively increase an emission luminance of an extracted pixel on a display screen and avoid increase of an emission luminance of a background part on the display screen. |
| US08373721B2 |
Method of realism assessment of an image composite
In a method of realism assessment of an image composite, the foreground and the background are transformed into a color space, such as YCbCr, followed by projecting the foreground and the background to a subspace represented by the axes representing chromatic information. The image composite is assessed in the projected subspace, according to linearity of color distributions of the foreground/the background, or according to distance between the color distributions of the foreground/the background and a center of the transformed color space. |
| US08373719B2 |
Control method for improving luminous uniformity and related luminosity calibrating controller and display device
A control method for improving the luminous uniformity of a display device includes a panel which includes a plurality of sampling pixels, wherein each sampling pixel corresponding to a coordinate of the panel. The control method includes receiving an input pixel, determining the neighboring pixels of the input pixel according to a coordinate of the input pixel and the coordinates of the plurality of the sampling pixels, receiving the gamma table of the neighboring sampling pixels, each gamma table including a luminous calibrating value of a neighboring sampling pixel, retrieving the corresponding specific luminous calibrating value according to the corresponding grey level of the input pixel, and calculating the luminous calibrating value of the input pixel according to the coordinate of the input pixel, the coordinates of the neighboring sampling pixels and the specific luminous calibrating value. |
| US08373718B2 |
Method and system for color enhancement with color volume adjustment and variable shift along luminance axis
Embodiments of the claimed subject matter provide a system and process for enhancing the display of color in a graphical display. In one embodiment, a process is provided for color enhancement using a detection volume and a shift volume. In one embodiment, input from pixels, as color data, is compared to a detection volume. If the color data of an input is detected in the detection volume, the color data is modified to a corresponding position in the shift volume, the modification consisting of an enhancement to the original color. |
| US08373716B2 |
Parallel approximation of distance maps
Method for parallel approximation of distance maps on a discrete representation of a manifold, the method comprising: for at least one Euclidean grid applied on the discrete representation of a manifold, iterating over rows of the Euclidean grid in a first direction, and for each row currently visited during the iterating in the first direction, calculating a distance value for each single cell of the currently visited row in parallel, wherein the calculating is carried out according to a predefined approximation rule, using a distance value calculated for each one of respective cells of a row visited immediately before the currently visited row, wherein the cells of the row visited before the currently visited row are adjacent to the single cell in the Euclidean grid. |
| US08373713B2 |
Image display apparatus and control method thereof
An image display apparatus includes a memory 1 having a first mode and a second mode in which image data are sequentially written and read per frame and per sub-frame area respectively, a compressor 10 capable of switching a compression output state and an uncompressed output state in which a compression image data and an uncompressed image data are outputted respectively, and a decompressor 20 capable of switching a decompression output state and a non-decompression output state. A controller 6 switches the compressor from the uncompressed output state to the compression output state during a first input vertical blanking period, switches the decompressor from the non-decompression output state to the decompression output state during a first output vertical blanking period immediately after the first input vertical blanking period, and switches the memory from the second mode to the first mode during a first output vertical blanking period. |
| US08373711B2 |
Image processing apparatus, image processing method, and computer-readable storage medium
An image processing apparatus has a memory in which a plurality of image processing commands are stored, a dependent information producing unit which produces dependent information in each image data block becoming a target image processing, the dependent information indicating a dependency relationship between image processing of the image data block and another processing, a dependency relationship solving unit which makes a determination of a practicable image processing based on the dependent information, the dependency relationship solving unit writing an image processing command of the practicable image processing in the memory, and a plurality of image processing units which read an image processing command stored in the memory, the image processing units performing the image processing to the image data block based on the image processing command. |
| US08373704B1 |
Systems and methods for facilitating object movement using object component relationship markers
Methods and systems for facilitating object movement using markers are disclosed. A marker may provide information about a “binding” that specifies how a component of an object will automatically move in response to a movement of another component of the object. By using bindings to link the movements of an objects' components, a developer can simplify how the object's movement is controlled, for example, so that moving one component causes the rest of the components to automatically move in a desired manner. Displaying markers for these bindings provides, among other things, a convenient means for a developer to observe and/or change a component's movement behavior (i.e., the behavior that is specified by the bindings). |
| US08373700B2 |
Image processing apparatus
According to one embodiment, an image processing apparatus includes a level storage module, a video determination module, and a resolution increasing module. The level storage module stores a super-resolution level in association with a video mode. The super-resolution level indicates intensity of super resolution conversion, in which from a first video signal having first resolution, a second video signal is obtained that has second resolution higher than the first resolution and that is to be displayed in the video mode. The video determination module identifies a video mode and determines a super-resolution level based on the video mode identified. The resolution increasing module performs the super resolution conversion on the first video signal at the super-resolution level determined by the video determination module. |
| US08373699B2 |
Method and apparatus for parallel ray-tracing employing modular space division
Novel method and system for distributed database ray-tracing is presented, based on modular mapping of scene-data among processors. Its inherent properties include scattering data among processors for improved load balancing, and matching between geographical proximity in the scene with communication proximity between processors. High utilization is enabled by unique mechanism of cache sharing. The resulting improved performance enables deep level of ray tracing for real time applications. |
| US08373696B2 |
Electro-optical device, method of driving the same, and electronic apparatus
An aspect of the present invention provides an electro-optical device including a plurality of scanning lines, a plurality of data lines, a plurality of power lines extending in a direction intersecting with the plurality of data lines, and a plurality of pixel circuits provided corresponding to intersections of the plurality of scanning lines and the plurality of data lines, wherein pixel circuits of the plurality of pixel circuits provided adjacent to each other along one of the plurality of data lines is coupled to one of the plurality of power lines. |
| US08373693B2 |
Potential generation circuit and liquid crystal display device
A potential generation circuit and a liquid crystal display device are provided that are capable of reducing power consumption with a simple circuit configuration. The potential generation circuit is a potential generation circuit for generating a common potential that is applied to a capacitive load, and includes a differential amplifier that has a positive input receiving a given set potential and a negative input receiving the common potential that is negatively fed back, a current amplifier that amplifies the output of the differential amplifier and outputs the common potential, a charge recovery capacitor that has one of its ends connected to a reference potential, and an anti-parallel diode that is connected between the other end of the charge recovery capacitor and the common potential. |
| US08373690B2 |
Scanning image display apparatus
A scanning image display apparatus includes a light source section that emits a laser beam, a scan mirror that scans the laser beam two-dimensionally in a first direction and a second direction which intersects the first direction, and a control section that drives the scan mirror. Herein, the control section drives the scan mirror such that a scan frequency in the first direction becomes higher than a scan frequency in the second direction, and changes the scan frequency in the first direction in synchronization with a period of the scan frequency in the second direction to change a scan amplitude in the first direction. |
| US08373682B2 |
Stylus having retracted and extended positions
A stylus comprises a housing, a stylus body and a shaft. The housing has a receptacle defined therethrough. The stylus body assembly is slidably and non-rotatably accommodated in the receptacle of the housing, the stylus body assembly includes a threaded hole defined therethrough. The shaft rotatably passes through the housing, the shaft includes a threaded portion engaging with the threaded hole such that rotation of the shaft relative to the housing causes the stylus body assembly to slide relative to the housing to extend out or retract into the housing. |
| US08373678B2 |
Electronics device having projector module
An electronics device having a projector module including a first light source, and a first scanner scanning an image projection surface in a biaxial direction; a distance measuring device performing one-dimensional scanning on a plane over the image projection surface to determine the position of an optical interceptor and including a second light source, a second scanner performing scanning with the second light beam, and a light detector detecting the second light beam reflected from the optical interceptor; and a controller. The uniaxial-scanning component of the first scanner is shared with the second scanner. The positional data are compared with two-dimensional coordinate data of the projected image to determine the position of the optical interceptor on the projected image. The controller inputs a signal to the electronics device when determining that the optical interceptor performs optical interception on the projected image. |
| US08373675B2 |
Display panel, display apparatus having the same, and method thereof
A display panel includes an array substrate and an opposite substrate. The array substrate includes a plurality of data lines, a plurality of gate lines, a plurality of first signal lines, a plurality of second signal lines and a plurality of pixels. Each of the pixels includes a pixel electrode and a common electrode insulated from the pixel electrode. The opposite substrate includes a plurality of connecting members. At least one of the connecting members is electrically connected to at least one of the first signal lines and the second signal lines by an externally provided pressure. Thus, when an externally provided pressure is applied to the display panel in order to perform a touch screen function, an alignment of the liquid crystal molecules disposed on the array substrate may not be substantially changed, and a display quality may be improved. |
| US08373674B2 |
Touch screen device
A touch screen device includes a panel body having electrodes arranged in a grid pattern; a sensitivity calculator configured to calculate a sensitivity for each electrode intersection based on an amount of change in a signal output from the electrodes in response to a touch operation; a touch position detector configured to detect the touch position based on the sensitivity obtained by the sensitivity calculator; and a pointing device determiner configured to correct the sensitivity obtained by the sensitivity calculator, based on the touch position obtained by the touch position detector, and to determine whether a pointing device performing the touch operation is a pen or a finger, based on the corrected sensitivity. |
| US08373672B2 |
One sided thin film capacitive touch sensors
Thin film capacitive touch sensors and applications thereof are described herein. Embodiments include construction of one-sided and two-sided thin film capacitive touch sensors with partial fill patterns, one-sided thin film capacitive touch sensors including conductive ground plane layers, one-sided thin film capacitive touch sensors including air gap layers, one-sided thin film capacitive touch sensors including a combination of both separation layers to create air gap layers and conductive ground plane layers. |
| US08373670B2 |
Electronic device with dynamically adjusted touch area
A method for adjusting at least a area of a touch screen is provided. The touch panel includes a first touch area and a second touch area, the first touch area is responsive to a stationary touch and corresponds to a first function, and the second touch area is responsive to a sliding touch and corresponds to a second function. The method includes: defining an overlapped touch area including at least part of the first touch area and at least part of the second touch area; receiving a touch input on the touch panel; when the touch input is started from the overlapped touch area, calculating a moving distance of the touch input and a touch time of the touch input; and when the touch time is within a threshold time, and the moving distance exceeds a threshold distance, setting the overlapped touch area to correspond to the second function. |
| US08373666B2 |
Mobile terminal using proximity sensor and control method thereof
The present invention relates to a mobile terminal using a proximity sensor and a control method thereof. According to the control method of a mobile terminal, a moving image screen in which a moving image is played is displayed on a touch screen and the play speed of the moving image is controlled based on a proximity signal detected by the proximity sensor. Further, when a touch signal is input through the touch screen, a moving image screen is captured and a capture image is created. According to the present invention, various screen controls can be performed using the proximity sensor. |
| US08373662B2 |
Illuminating plug and battery charger using the same and mouse using the same
An illuminating plug includes a cable, a terminal electrically connected to the cable, an illuminating unit formed on the cable, a light guiding layer covering around the cable and optically coupled to the illuminating unit, and a reflecting layer covering the illuminating unit and the light guiding layer. The light guiding layer includes a light emitting surface formed adjacent to the terminal such that light emitting from the illuminating unit reaches the light emitting surface through the light guiding layer and emits out to illuminate at least the terminal. |
| US08373660B2 |
System and method for a portable multimedia client
Mobile devices are described, along with related services, systems, and methods. These devices include displays with pixel dimensions and pixel densities in ranges that are chosen to allow users to enjoy a more intuitive and more “desktop-like” Web or multi-media experience compared to other devices, while still enabling the devices to be pocketsize. Also described are devices with touch sensitive areas on the edges or back that let users efficiently and intuitively control some behaviors of the devices by touching the touch sensitive areas in certain ways. Embodiments of the present invention reduces the need for mechanical controls, which enables keeping the frame around the device's display unusually narrow, thereby permitting larger displays without increasing the overall sizes of the devices. |
| US08373658B2 |
Motion sensing system
A motion sensing system includes a hand-held device and a receiver device. The hand-held device includes a microcontroller, a G-sensor (one 3-axis accelerometer), only one 2-axis gyroscope, and a wireless transmitter. The receiver device is preferably a dongle and includes a microcontroller and a wireless receiver. A first axis of the 2-axis gyroscope is parallel to the Z axis of the hand-held device and the second axis of the 2-axis gyroscope forms an acute angle α with the X axis of the hand-held device. The acute angle α allows the microcontroller of the receiver device to calculate rotational data around each of the three axis of the hand-held device. |
| US08373646B2 |
Backlight device and display apparatus having the same
In a backlight device and a driving method thereof, a voltage controller controls a voltage level of a first input voltage in response to a dimming signal to output a second input voltage. A pulse generator receives the second input voltage from the voltage controller and generates a pulse signal having a duty ratio corresponding to the dimming signal and a high voltage level corresponding to the second input voltage. An inverter generates a lamp driving signal based on the pulse signal. At least one lamp included in the backlight device is turned on or turned off in response to a lamp driving signal to adjust luminance of the backlight device. |
| US08373643B2 |
Frequency synthesis and synchronization for LED drivers
A PWM generation module generates a PWM data signal used to control a light emitting diode (LED) driver for one or more strings of LEDs of a display device. The PWM data signal is synchronized with the frame boundaries of the video content being displayed. The PWM generation module can configure the PWM data signal such that a new PWM cycle is initiated at the start of each successive frame, and further whereby those PWM cycles that would be prematurely terminated at frame boundaries are instead driven at a constant reference level until the frame boundary. With this configuration, a substantially linear average light intensity can be achieved across frames, thereby reducing or eliminating display distortion that is often present in other PWM cycle synchronization techniques. The PWM generation module can use a self-learning process to make adjustments to the expected number of completeable PWM cycles per frame in response to dynamic changes in the frame rate, PWM frequency, or other related display parameters. |
| US08373642B2 |
Liquid crystal display device and driving method thereof
An embodiment of the present invention provides a method of driving a liquid crystal display device including a liquid crystal panel, and a backlight assembly providing light to the liquid crystal panel by a field sequential driving method, the method includes: displaying an image, at the liquid crystal panel and the backlight assembly, by time-dividing two frames into five sub-frames, wherein when images are displayed in the two frames, images of a first frame and a second frame of the two frames share one blue light. |
| US08373639B2 |
Device and method for adjustment of a work place illumination
A device and method for adjustment of a work place illumination in computerized image presentation, a detection device being arranged to detect the current light and/or contrast values of at least one active presentation surface, that the detection device is connected to a control and adjustment device arranged to automatically adjust the work place illumination of the presentation surface depending on reference values determined in the control and adjustment device in relation to the current light and/or contrast value of the presentation surface. |
| US08373637B2 |
Shift register and liquid crystal display using same
An exemplary shift register includes plural shift register units (S1˜Sn). All the shift register units receive either a first clock signal or a second clock signal, and the shift register units output a plurality of shift register signals in sequence. An output of a previous shift register unit is an input of the next adjacent shift register unit. |
| US08373636B2 |
Driving method for display device
A liquid crystal display includes pixels each having an switching element, drain drivers and gate drivers for operating the switching elements and the pixels, and drain lines and gate lines supplying signals from the drain drivers and the gate drivers to the switching elements being formed on one of a pair of substrates sandwiching a liquid crystal layer. Wiring lines are formed on the one of a pair of substrates for transferring display data signals and a clock signal to the gate drivers. |
| US08373630B2 |
Display device
A display device including a display element having a planar display face on which a plurality of pixels are arranged in a matrix shape and an optical element arranged in close contact with or in close proximity to at least a partial region of the planar display face and optically transmitting image light incoming from the planar display face to a light-emitting face, characterized in that the light-emitting face of the optical element has a surface not parallel to at least the planar display face and forms a nonplanar display face and that the plurality of pixels on the planar display face do not have the same dimensions but different dimensions in accordance with the angle θ formed by the planar display face and the nonplanar display face corresponding to the pixels of the planar display face. |
| US08373628B2 |
Active matrix display devices
An active matrix display device has an array of display pixels, each pixel comprising a current-driven light emitting display element (2), a drive transistor (22) for driving a current through the display element and pixel circuitry including an optical feedback element (38) for controlling the drive transistor to drive a substantially constant current through the display element for a duration which depends on the desired display pixel output level and an optical feedback signal of the optical feedback element. An output configuration is applied to the display which includes values for the pixel power supply voltages, the field period and an allowed range of pixel drive levels. The output configuration is varied in response to ageing of the display element. In this device, an output configuration is varied as the device ages, so that the optical feedback system can continue to provide compensation for differential ageing of the display elements for a longer period of use of the display. |
| US08373626B2 |
Organic light emitting display device having demultiplexers
An organic light emitting display device includes a display unit including a plurality of data lines, a plurality of scan lines, and pixels at crossing regions of the data lines and scan lines, wherein the plurality of data lines are arranged into a plurality of groups; a data driver for supplying data signals to the data lines; a first demultiplexer at a first side of the display unit for associating the groups to first corresponding output channels of the data driver, and for coupling the output channels to the data lines in the first corresponding groups in accordance with control signals; a second demultiplexer at a second side of the display unit opposite the first side for associating the groups to second corresponding output channels of the data driver, and for coupling the output channels to the data lines in the second corresponding groups in accordance with the control signals. |
| US08373624B2 |
Organic light emitting display (OLED) devise, modules, and electronic devices
An organic light emitting display device is disclosed, which including an active matrix substrate with an array of active elements disposed in an active region and a control circuit disposed in a peripheral region. A color filter substrate is oppositely disposed to the active matrix substrate, including color filter elements with different colors enclosed by a black matrix layer in a region corresponding to the active region and an extension of the black matrix layer in a region corresponding to the peripheral region. An array of OLED pixel is interposed between the active matrix substrate and the color filter substrate on the active region. Each of the OLED pixels includes an anode, an organic electroluminescent layer, and a cathode. A first conductive component electrically connects the control circuit and the extension of the black matrix layer. A second conductive component electrically connects the black matrix layer and the cathode. |
| US08373623B2 |
Automatic high voltage gate driver IC (HVIC) for PDP
A PDP sustain driver circuit including at least one high voltage gate driver IC (HVIC) having a logic functional block. The PDP sustain driver circuit includes a signal buffer for receiving two input signals and providing the two signals to the logic functional block; and at least four switches including a charging switch, a discharging switch, a sustain switch and a grounding recovery switch, the HVIC providing a unique control signal from the logic functional block to the four switches to control said four switches. |
| US08373620B2 |
In-vehicle display apparatus
There is provided an in-vehicle display apparatus including a display unit that displays different images to be seen from a driver's seat side and a passenger's seat side; and an image control unit that causes the driver's seat side to display a navigation image, when operation mode is switched from a second operation mode in which an operation on a second image displayed on the passenger's seat side is allowed, to a first operation mode in which an operation on a first image displayed on the driver's seat side is allowed. |
| US08373618B2 |
Augmented-reality system for situation-related support of the interaction between a user and an engineering apparatus
The invention relates to an augmented-reality system having a mobile apparatus for the context-dependent insertion of assembly instructions. The context-dependent insertion of assembly instructions with process-optimized allocation of the necessary work steps provides situation-related support by for work sequences. |
| US08373617B2 |
Barrier device and stereoscopic image display using the same
The present invention relates to a stereoscopic image display device including an active barrier for varying a barrier display pattern so as to display various stereoscopic images. In further detail, the stereoscopic image display device includes a display panel, a barrier, a barrier driver, and a controller. A stereoscopic image is displayed on the display panel. The barrier is placed corresponding to the display panel, and includes a plurality of liquid crystal cells arranged in a matrix format. The barrier driver drives the barrier such that the barrier display pattern may be a display pattern corresponding to the image signal by controlling the respective plurality of liquid crystal cells to become selectively transparent or opaque based on the mode information signal. |
| US08373616B2 |
Locating and displaying method upon a specific video region of a computer screen
A locating and displaying method upon a specific video region of a computer screen comprises the steps of: capturing a plurality of computer screens during a predetermined time period; comparing one computer screen with the following computer screen to locate a plurality of screen differences, in which every single screen difference includes at least one different region; judging a respective position of every individual different region of each screen difference so as to locate an object window containing the different region; determine one object window as a video region by comparing a size or an appearance time of the object window; capturing a film of the video region; forwarding the film to a distant displayer; and then the displayer broadcasting the film on a display. |
| US08373614B2 |
Data viewing system for an aircraft
A data viewing system for an aircraft includes a concentration unit including a first element for acquiring all of the compound images generated by a plurality of image sources, a second element for processing the acquired compound images, and a third element for managing the display of the processed compound images implemented on a plurality of viewing screens. |
| US08373611B2 |
Probe and antenna using waveguide
A probe and an antenna, more particularly, a probe and antenna using a waveguide, which reduces the multiple reflection of electromagnetic waves. The probe includes: and the antenna each include a waveguide and a resonance unit is entirely or partially disposed in the inside of the waveguide, and comprising the resonance unit including a conductor. |
| US08373605B2 |
Electromagnetic antenna reconfigurable by electrowetting
The invention relates to an electromagnetic antenna that comprises a radiating element composed of a first, electrically conducting, fluid substance (F1) sitting on a first element (S1) and of a second fluid substance (F2) sitting on a second element (S2), the first fluid substance (F1) being in contact with the second fluid substance (F2), said fluid substances being immiscible and said first and second elements being electrically conducting and electrically isolated from one another. |
| US08373603B2 |
Dual feed antenna
A multi-port antenna structure for a wireless-enabled communications device includes a coupler-antenna having a first antenna port for transmitting electromagnetic signals and a second antenna port for receiving electromagnetic signals. The coupler-antenna is positioned on a chassis of the wireless enabled communications device to transmit energy between the chassis and the first and second antenna ports. Resonant modes of the chassis for one antenna port are orthogonal to resonant modes of the chassis for the other antenna port, such that the first and second antenna ports are isolated from each other. |
| US08373601B2 |
Multi-band antenna
A multi-band antenna includes a connecting conductor, first and second conducting arms, and a loop conductor. The connecting conductor has a feed-in end and a connecting end. The first conducting arm is connected to the connecting end of the connecting conductor. The second connecting arm is connected to the connecting end of the connecting conductor and is substantially perpendicular to the first connecting arm. The loop conductor has first and second radiator sections, each adjacent and substantially parallel to a respective one of the first and second conducting arms. The loop conductor forms a substantially L-shaped gap with the first and second conducting arms, further has a grounding end adjacent to the feed-in end, and extends from the grounding end to the feed-in end. |
| US08373596B1 |
Detecting and locating RF emissions using subspace techniques to mitigate interference
Techniques are disclosed that allow for the detection and locating of RF emitters. The technique includes recording emitter signals of interest received from the search area via an antenna array and a phase coherent receiver, wherein all frequency conversions carried out by the phase coherent receiver are performed in a phase coherent fashion across all the channels. The technique further includes identifying subspace of each channel using singular value decomposition (SVD), analyzing the subspace of each channel for the presence of a target signal, and direction finding and/or geolocating the target signal. |
| US08373589B2 |
Rotational parabolic antenna with various feed configurations
A rotational antenna includes a stationary feed which is disposed in a substantially vertical orientation. A parabolic dish is rotationally mounted about the stationary feed in a state of being tipped with respect to the stationary, substantially vertically oriented feed. The rotational parabolic antenna may alternatively be provided with a rotating radio frequency (RF) and acoustic feed. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08373588B2 |
Wireless connectivity in a radar detector
Wireless and other external connectivity technology is used in various ways to enhance or improve upon existing radar detector and police activity detection systems. External memory interfaces, such as SD cards or USB, provide external storage. Wireless interfaces such as Bluetooth, Zigbee, 802.11, and wireless personal area network communication protocols, allow a detector processor to interact wirelessly with external devices, such as a Bluetooth headset, a cellular network device providing a server connection, or toggle buttons used to indicate the presence of police activity at a current position. Further, radar detectors are upgraded to provide GPS capabilities, using the existing power/data connector of the radar detector. |
| US08373584B2 |
Compressing and decompressing data
A technique includes compressing or decompressing data using a relative displacement of a location of a data pattern. |
| US08373582B2 |
Adaptive pattern recognition based controller apparatus and method and human-factored interface therefore
A mobile communications device comprising a location sensing system, producing a location output; a memory, storing a set of locations and associated events; a telecommunications device, communicating event and location information between a remote system and said memory; and a processor, processing said location output in conjunction with said stored locations and associated events in said memory, to determine a priority thereof. |
| US08373575B2 |
Service dependency notification system
Systems for monitoring consumer dependency on services are disclosed. In one embodiment, a service dependency notification system includes: at least one computing device adapted to identify a dependency aware device by performing actions comprising: determining whether a service dependency exists; and providing a service dependency status indicator configured to be communicated via a utility network, the service dependency status indicator indicating whether the service dependency exists. |
| US08373573B2 |
Display system adapting to 3D tilting adjustment
A display system utilizes a tilting sensor in a viewing device to transmit a wireless signal containing tilting information to a display device when a person who puts on the viewing device has tilting movements about an axis that connects between the viewing device and the display device. The display device adjusts a multimedia content displayed on a panel according to the tilting information by physically rotating the panel about the same axis or rotating the multimedia content about the same axis before the content is displayed on the panel to synchronize with the tilting angle of the viewing device. |
| US08373572B2 |
Battery assembly with alarm
A battery alarm for use with a battery assembly is provided, the battery alarm including a first activation component, a signaling component, and an output component. The first activation component is configured to activate the alarm upon disengagement of the battery assembly from a battery-operated device and is further configured to deactivate the alarm upon engagement of the battery pack with the battery-operated device. The signaling component is coupled to the first activation component and is configured to transmit a signal when the alarm is activated. The output component is adapted to receive the signal from the signaling component and is configured to produce a visual, audible, and/or tactile output upon receipt of the signal from the signaling component. |
| US08373571B2 |
Methods and apparatus for controlling a notification appliance circuit
An arrangement for use in a safety notification system includes an alarm signal power source, a first semiconductor device, a current sensing unit, and a controller unit. The alarm signal power source is configured to generate bias power for activating a notification appliance circuit of a notification system. The first semiconductor device has a load path coupled between the alarm signal power source and the notification appliance circuit. The current sensing unit is operably coupled to generate a sensing signal that is dependent on the current in the load path. The controller circuit is operably connected to receive the current sensing signal and to control the first semiconductor device responsive to a current sensing signal that exceeds an in-rush current threshold. |
| US08373570B2 |
ARC fault detection method and apparatus
Load current from an electrical AC supply circuit is monitored so that both high frequency (10-100 kHz), and low frequency (60 Hz) signal current components are measured over certain time periods. A high frequency energy component is measured in an integral fashion, e.g., summing a plurality of samples taken. A certain amount of high frequency energy during a half-cycle is required to indicate an arc event. A certain number of these arc events per half-cycle must occur within a specific time period to indicate the presence of an arc. The root-mean-square (RMS) value of the low frequency energy component is used to determine the severity of the arc. The higher the amperage of the load current arc, the faster the arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) will respond by disconnecting the arcing load from the AC supply circuit, e.g., fewer number of arc events necessary for tripping of the AFCI. |
| US08373569B2 |
Power line carrier (PLC) communication of standby generator status
A method and system for remotely monitoring the status of a standby generator. The system includes a PLC transmitter in communication with the control unit for the generator. The PLC transmitter receives error codes from the control unit of the generator and transmits encoded error codes over the power distribution network in a home using a PLC frequency. A remote status display device can be connected to the power distribution network in the home at any convenient location. The remote status display device includes a PLC receiver that decodes the error codes. The decoded error codes are displayed on a display of the remote status display device for viewing by the home occupant at a location remote from the standby generator. |
| US08373566B2 |
Security apparatus with tether
An electronic article surveillance (EAS) security apparatus is comprised of a base, a reel housing containing a reel, a tether joined to the base and the reel housing and disposed on the reel, and an electronics package. The base attaches to an object to be protected and the tether is wrapped around the object as the reel housing is passed around the object. The reel housing is releasably attached to the base by complimentary coupling elements on each. The base has a tether guide, which allows the tether to be redirected in additional directions as it is wrapped around the object. A releasable blocking mechanism keeps the base and reel housing coupled. The electronics package includes at least a passive EAS element and can contain a microprocessor, wireless communication elements, switches, sound generator, a power supply, and the tether if electrically conductive. The blocking mechanism may be magnetically releasable. |
| US08373564B2 |
Theft deterrent device
A theft deterrent device includes a carrier having a pivotally mounted pin and an alarm tag for receiving the pin to secure the carrier and alarm tag together when secured on an item of merchandise by an adhesive pad on the carrier. Spaced electrical contacts within the alarm tag receive the pin therebetween to complete an electrical path to close an electrical circuit which turns the device on. The security device is configured to sound an onboard alarm in response to prying of the carrier from the alarm tag or cutting of the pin of the carrier, or if an EAS tag receives a wireless signal from a security gate. The carrier remains on the purchased merchandise for subsequent disposal after removal of the alarm tag from the carrier by the use of a magnetic key to unlock a locking mechanism which engages the pin. |
| US08373559B2 |
Microelectronic device with integrated energy source
An apparatus including an electronic device having a plurality of substantially collocated components, the plurality of components including an antenna, an energy supply and an integrated circuit chip. The integrated circuit chip is electrically coupled to the antenna and the energy supply. A material substantially encloses the electronic device. |
| US08373558B2 |
Devices and methods for providing cashless payment and diagnostics for vending machines
Devices and methods for generating an alert for a vending machine are disclosed. A method of generating an alert includes monitoring a bus for at least one communication from the vending machine controller via the bus. The bus is then monitored for a response to the communication from a peripheral device to the vending machine controller via the bus. The response from the peripheral device is then processed. An alert is then generated based on the processed response. A peripheral device for generating the alert includes a bus interface configured to receive data from the bus and to transmit data onto the bus, and a processing unit coupled to the bus interface, the processing unit configured to process data received from the at least one other peripheral device and generate an alert based on the processed data. |
| US08373557B2 |
Method for establishing a telecommunications network for patient monitoring
A wireless network having an architecture that resembles a peer-to-peer network has two types of nodes, a first sender type node and a second receiver/relay type node. The network may be used in a medical instrumentation environment whereby the first type node may be wireless devices that could monitor physical parameters of a patient such as for example wireless oximeters. The second type node are mobile wireless communicators that are adapted to receive the data from the wireless devices if they are within the transmission range of the wireless devices. After an aggregation process involving the received data, each of the node communicators broadcasts or disseminates its most up to date data onto the network. Any other relay communicator node in the network that is within the broadcast range of a broadcasting communicator node would receive the up to date data. This makes it possible for communicators that are out of the transmitting range of a wireless device to be apprized of the condition of the patient being monitored by the wireless device. Each communicator in the network is capable of receiving and displaying data from a plurality of wireless devices. |
| US08373554B2 |
Network-based identification of uninsured vehicles
Systems and methods are disclosed that detect uninsured vehicles. An insurance monitoring system described herein receives a message over a mobile network from a mobile device embedded in a vehicle, where the message from the mobile device includes a vehicle identification for the vehicle. The insurance monitoring system queries an insurance database based on the vehicle identification to determine whether the vehicle is uninsured. If the vehicle is uninsured, then the insurance monitoring system sends a notification message to a law enforcement entity. |
| US08373552B2 |
Method of early warning for vehicle
Pre-alert device (1) for vehicle comprising an access (20) to data making it possible to define a journey, an access (10) to data relating to the pressure of at least one tire of a vehicle provided to make said journey, a test module (30) specially adapted, on the basis of a set of criteria making it possible to detect pre-alert conditions according on the one hand to data relating to pressure and on the other hand to data relating to the defined journey, to generate a pre-alert condition when at least one of the alert triggering conditions is satisfied. |
| US08373551B2 |
Tire pressure sensor
A tire pressure sensor is provided having a housing, a pressure transducer within the housing electronically coupled to a transmitter, a battery within the housing connected to deliver electrical power to the pressure transducer and to the transmitter, and a pressurized compartment within the housing bounded at least partially by a flexible membrane. A first conduit extends from the pressure transducer to the compartment. An inlet port extends through the housing to allow pressurized air within the tire to contact the membrane. In particular embodiments, the pressure transducer, transmitter and battery are rubber coated and encapsulated with epoxy. |
| US08373550B2 |
Door assist system controller and method
A controller for a door system and an associated method of operation for actuating a door. The controller may be electrically coupled with a motor, an outer door switch and an inner door switch. The controller, activates a motor assist and may maintain a desirable current supply to the motor assist. Determining a relative position of the door and determining whether movement of the door is obstructed is performed. The controller actuates the door to an appropriate position and determines whether door operation exceeds a maximum time threshold. The controller may be configured to deactivate the motor assist once the door reaches an appropriate position or the door operation exceeds the maximum time threshold. |
| US08373549B2 |
Tactile feedback in an electronic device
An electronic device for providing tactile feedback is provided. The electronic device may provide tactile feedback using any suitable approach, including for example vibration, heat, electrical, visual, or any other type of feedback. The electronic device may provide tactile feedback in response to detecting any particular status of the electronic device, receiving any particular input, or detecting any suitable communication received by the electronic device. For example, the electronic device may provide tactile feedback in response to receiving a particular user input, or to detecting a user's finger on a particular portion of the electronic device. |
| US08373545B2 |
EPC provisioning system using business rules
An EPC provisioning system comprising a EPC server can dynamically provide EPC code blocks for one product to multiple client sites. The EPC server can use business rules to determine the EPC codes for the multiple client sites. |
| US08373543B2 |
RFID transponder using ambient radiation
A tag operates in an environment where transmitted interrogators are not possible or desired. High-efficiency diode rectifiers and low-power oscillators are used in combination with an energy storage element and hysteretic switch. The combination of multi-diode rectifier, low power tunnel diode oscillator, energy storage element and hysteretic switch allow for nanowatt levels of received RF power to be stored to produce micro-watts of RF transmit power. The device trickle charges off of ambient RF radiation until enough energy is stored for transmission. |
| US08373542B2 |
All-in-one radio frequency identification (RFID) system for sale and inventory management
This is an all-in-one radio frequency identification system for goods inventory and sale management, comprising at least one tag, an antenna unit and a multi-port reader comprising a micro control unit, a reader and a multiplexer. The tag is attached on each article. The antenna unit is RF coupled to the tag. The multiplexer built-in the multi-port reader is electrically coupled to the antenna unit. The reader built-in the multi-port reader is capable of transmitting RF signals, accessing commands and receiving tag signals from the multiplexer. The micro control unit is electrically coupled to the multiplexer and the reader to receive and process the reading signal and provide inventory and sale management functions and applications. Therefore, the all-in-one radio frequency identification system provides not only inventory and anti-theft functions but also information for consumer behavior research, and capable of doing stand alone operations. |
| US08373536B2 |
Integrated lateral short circuit for a beneficial modification of current distribution structure for xMR magnetoresistive sensors
The invention relates to a magnetoresistive device formed to sense an externally applied magnetic field, and a related method. The magnetoresistive device includes a magnetoresistive stripe formed over an underlying, metallic layer that is patterned to produce electrically isolated conductive regions over a substrate, such as a silicon substrate. An insulating layer separates the patterned metallic layer from the magnetoresistive stripe. A plurality of conductive vias is formed to couple the isolated regions of the metallic layer to the magnetoresistive stripe. The conductive vias form local short circuits between the magnetoresistive stripe and the isolated regions of the metallic layer to alter the uniformity of a current flow therein, thereby improving the position and angular sensing accuracy of the magnetoresistive device. In an advantageous embodiment, the metallic layer is formed as electrically conductive stripes oriented at approximately a 45° angle with respect to an axis of the magnetoresistive device. |
| US08373535B2 |
Thermistor and method of manufacture
A thermistor having multiple metal layers about at least a portion of a semiconductor body. The thermistor includes a first thick film electrode layer, a reactive metal layer, a barrier metal layer and, optionally, a layer to facilitate attachment to an electrical contact. Also, a method of making the thermistor is described. |
| US08373524B1 |
Relay contacts cross connect mitigation
A double-throw multi-pole power relay switch is modified to meet Underwriters Laboratories standards for a transfer switch that automatically switchs a load from a primary power source to a secondary power source upon interruption of the primary source and without cross connection of the primary and secondary sources in the event that one or more relay switch contacts become welded. |
| US08373518B2 |
Method and apparatus for digital synthesis of long multi-cycle microwave pulses
Conductive segments (transmission line conductors) are positioned within a transmission line structure in order to generate multi-cycle microwave pulses. The conductor segments are switchably coupled to one or the other conductor of the transmission lines, inside the transmission line structure. Microwave pulses may be induced in the transmission line by closing the switches in a controlled manner to discharge successive segments, or successive groups of segments, into the transmission lines. The induced pulses travel uninterrupted along the transmission lines in a desired direction to the load. Efficiency of systems and energy delivered to the load in multi-section transmission lines is increased and/or maximized by adjusting the ratio of characteristic impedances associated with the transmission line conductor segments according to an optimum ratio. |
| US08373514B2 |
Wireless power transfer using magneto mechanical systems
Wireless power transfer is received using a magneto mechanical system. A magneto mechanical system may include an array of magneto-mechanical oscillators, wherein each oscillator may comprise a magnetic symmetrical part and a suspension engaged to the magnetic part. The system may further include a coil formed around the array and electromagnetically coupled to the oscillators to produce an electric current caused by electromagnetic coupling with the oscillators. |
| US08373512B2 |
Oscillator device and methods thereof
A signal generator provides a plurality of oscillating signals, whereby each oscillating signal has a different peak voltage and has a predictable and consistent phase relationship with the other oscillating signals. The signal generator includes a plurality of stacked oscillators arranged between two reference voltages, such that each oscillator in the stack generates an oscillating signal having a different peak voltage. Each oscillator stage in a designated oscillator includes a transistor that is connected to a transistor of a corresponding stage in another oscillator. This arrangement of the oscillators provides for charge transfer between the corresponding stages to provide for similar voltage swings in each oscillating signal, as well as to provide for predictable phase relationship between the oscillating signals. |
| US08373510B2 |
Programmable filter for LC tank voltage controlled oscillator (VCO), design structure and method thereof
A programmable filter for LC tank voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) and a design structure for a programmable filter for LC tank VCO. The programmable filter includes a proportional control comprising a plurality of capacitance biased by different input voltages and an integral control comprising a filter element with a capacitance C1 and a set of capacitance biased by a voltage output of the filter element. |
| US08373509B2 |
Wide band LNA with noise canceling
Techniques to improve low noise amplifiers (LNAs) with noise canceling are described. LNA includes a first and a second amplifier which work together to noise cancel the noise generated at an input stage circuit. The input stage circuit receives an RF signal and is characterized by a first node and a second node. The first amplifier converts a noise voltage at the first node into a first noise current at an output of the first amplifier. The second amplifier is directly coupled to the output of the first amplifier and provides noise canceling by summing the first noise current with a second noise current generated by the second amplifier as a function of the noise voltage at the second node. The proposed techniques eliminate the need for large ac coupling capacitors and reduce the die size occupied by the LNA. |
| US08373507B2 |
Power amplifier protection
A power amplifier, for example a class-E switching power amplifier, and corresponding method, comprising: a plurality of power transistors (16), for example twelve power transistors, providing a partitioned power transistor; and a voltage sensing module (22), comprising for example voltage dividers and inverters, digitally sensing the drain voltage (2) of the partitioned power transistor to control the number of power transistors of the plurality of power transistors (16) that are switched on or off thereby controlling the drain voltage (2) which is varying for example due to antenna mismatch. The power amplifier may further comprise a memory (24) coupled to the voltage sensing module (22) for storing a history of the drain voltage (2), e.g. a history of antenna mismatch. |
| US08373506B2 |
Amplifier circuit and methods of operation thereof
A signal amplifying circuit and associated methods and apparatuses, the circuit comprising: a signal path extending from an input terminal to an output terminal, a gain controller arranged to control the gain applied along the signal path in response to a control signal; an output stage within the signal path for generating the output signal, the output stage having a gain that is substantially independent of its supply voltage, and a variable voltage power supply comprising a charge pump for providing positive and negative output voltages, the charge pump comprising a network of switches that is operable in a number of different states and a controller for operating the switches in a sequence of the states so as to generate positive and negative output voltages together spanning a voltage approximately equal to the input voltage. |
| US08373505B2 |
Dynamic current boost in class AB amplifier for low distortion
An apparatus comprises an amplifier circuit and a detection circuit. The amplifier circuit includes a high voltage supply rail, a low voltage supply rail, and an output stage. The detection circuit is electrically coupled to the amplifier output stage and generates an indication when the output voltage at the output stage exceeds a specified output voltage threshold value. The amplifier circuit further includes a bias circuit configured to bias the amplifier circuit with a first bias current value when the output voltage is less than the specified output voltage threshold value, and bias the amplifier circuit with a second bias current value when the output voltage exceeds the specified output voltage threshold value. |
| US08373504B2 |
Class D power amplifier
A class D power amplifier (PA) is provided. The PA generally comprises a driver, output capacitor, a matching network, and a cancellation circuit. The driver has an input, an output, and a parasitic capacitance, and the input of the driver is configured to receive complementary first and second radio frequency (RF) signals, where there is a free-fly interval between consecutive pulses from the first and second RF signals. The output capacitor and cancellation circuit are each coupled to the output of the driver such that the cancellation circuit provides harmonic restoration at least during the free-fly interval, and the matching network is coupled to the output capacitor. |
| US08373501B2 |
Reference voltage circuit
Provided is a reference voltage circuit having a soft start function, which is small in circuit size and is capable of providing a continuous voltage. The reference voltage circuit includes a reference voltage section and a soft start circuit. The reference voltage section includes a depletion mode MOS transistor and a first enhancement mode MOS transistor. The soft start circuit includes: a second enhancement mode MOS transistor having a gate connected to a gate and a drain of the first enhancement mode MOS transistor, and a drain connected to an output terminal of the reference voltage circuit; a MOS switch having one terminal connected to an output terminal of the reference voltage section, and another terminal connected to the drain of the second enhancement mode MOS transistor; and a constant current source and a capacitor connected in series between a power supply and a ground. |
| US08373500B2 |
Voltage biasing circuit and data processing system having the same
A voltage biasing circuit includes a metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) transistor, a voltage control circuit controlling a voltage between a gate and a source of the MOS transistor to operate the MOS transistor in a sub-threshold range, and a capacitor connected to the MOS transistor. The voltage biasing circuit may further include a voltage buffer connected between the voltage control circuit and the MOS transistor. |
| US08373499B2 |
Semiconductor integrated circuit having normal mode and self-refresh mode
An SDRAM includes a DC-DC converter IC for generating a first internal power supply voltage from external power supply voltage, a regulator IC for generating a second internal power supply voltage lower than the first internal power supply voltage, from external power supply voltage, and a switching portion for supplying the first internal power supply voltage to an internal circuit in a normal operation mode and supplying the second internal power supply voltage to the internal circuit in a self-refresh mode. The switching unit allows the DC-DC converter IC and the regulator IC to operate simultaneously only for a prescribed overlapped period, at a time of operation mode switching. The DC-DC converter IC temporarily increases the first internal power supply voltage within the operating voltage range of the internal circuit in the overlapped period. |
| US08373497B2 |
System and method for preventing bipolar parasitic activation in a semiconductor circuit
In an embodiment, a semiconductor device has a semiconductor body of a first semiconductor type, a first region of a second semiconductor type disposed in the semiconductor body, and a second region of the first semiconductor type disposed within the first region, where the second semiconductor type is opposite the first semiconductor type, and where an interface between the first region and the semiconductor body forms a first diode junction. The semiconductor device also has a comparator with a first input coupled to the semiconductor body and a second input coupled to the first region, and a switch having a first output node coupled to the first region, and a second output node coupled to the semiconductor body. The semiconductor body, the first region and the second region are configured to be coupled to a first supply voltage, a second supply voltage, and a third supply voltage, respectively. |
| US08373494B2 |
Power supply control circuit
A power supply control circuit comprises an output transistor which controls supply of electric power to a load and a gate driving circuit which generates control signals “a” and “b” for controlling on/off of the output transistor 32 based on an external input signal. A transistor 37 discharges a gate charge of the output transistor based on the control signals “a” and “b”, when turning off the output transistor. A transistor 39 discharges more slowly than the transistor. A diode is coupled to the transistor 37 in series and which cuts off a discharge path through the transistor 37 transistor and the diode when the gate voltage of the output transistor falls to a voltage level higher than the sum of the power supply voltage Vcc and a threshold voltage of the output transistor, at a time of turning off the output transistor. |
| US08373490B2 |
Method, system, and apparatus for RF and DC switching
Embodiments of RF and DC switching are described generally herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed. |
| US08373484B2 |
Voltage clamp circuit, a switching power supply device, a semiconductor integrated circuit device, and a voltage level conversion circuit
The present invention provides a voltage clamping circuit which is operated in a stable manner with the simple constitution and a switching power source device which enables a high-speed operation. In a switching power source device, one of source/drain routes is connected to an input terminal to which an input voltage is supplied, a predetermined voltage to be restricted is supplied to a gate, and using a MOSFET which provides a current source between another source/drain route and a ground potential of the circuit, a clamp output voltage which corresponds to the input voltage is obtained from another source/drain route. The switching power source device further includes a first switching element which controls a current which is made to flow in an inductor such that the output voltage assumes a predetermined voltage and a second switching element which clamps an reverse electromotive voltage generated in the inductor when the first switching element is turned off to a predetermined potential. In such a switching power source device, the voltage clamping circuit is used in a feedback route for setting a dead time. |
| US08373483B2 |
Low-clock-energy, fully-static latch circuit
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for capturing and holding a level of an input signal using a low-clock-energy latch circuit that is fully static. The clock is only coupled to a first clock-activated pull-up or pull-down transistor and a second clock-activated pull-down or pull-up transistor. The level of the input signal is captured by a storage sub-circuit on one of the rising or the falling clock edge and stored to generate an output signal until the clock transitions. The level of the input signal is propagated to the output signal when the storage sub-circuit is not enabled. The storage sub-circuit is enabled and disabled by the first clock-activated transistor and a propagation sub-circuit is activated and deactivated by the second clock-activated transistor. |
| US08373481B2 |
Spur reduction technique for sampling PLL's
Control circuitry and method of controlling for a sampling phase lock loop (PLL). By controlling the duty cycle of a sampling control signal, in accordance with the PLL reference and output signals, spurious output signals from the sampling PLL being controlled can be reduced. |
| US08373479B1 |
Delay locked loop (DLL) circuit for improving jitter
A delay locked loop (DLL) circuit for improving jitters includes a detecting unit, a master controller, a slave controller, first and second variable delay lines, first and second dummy loads, and a processor. The master controller generates a first control signal in response to a detecting signal. The slave controller generates a second control signal in response to the detecting signal. The first variable delay line delays a reference clock in response to the first control signal so as to generate a delay clock. The processor is configured to selectively generate a slave input signal, wherein if the processor does not generate the slave input signal, the processor makes the second dummy load draw a load current from the slave controller. |
| US08373475B2 |
Phase interpolator and delay locked-loop circuit
A phase interpolator includes a delay difference detector and a phase interpolation driver. The delay difference detector receives a delay code to detect a delay difference. The phase interpolation driver includes two or more driver blocks complementarily operating, and the phase interpolation driver interpolate two input signals in response to the delay difference to provide an interpolated output signal. Each of two or more driver blocks includes a plurality of unit drivers, each input of the unit drivers is commonly connected, and each delay of the two or more driver blocks is varied according to the delay difference. |
| US08373472B2 |
Digital PLL with automatic clock alignment
One embodiment of the present invention relates to a digital phase locked loop (ADPLL) configured to generate a plurality of time-aligned output clock signals having different frequency values. The ADPLL comprises a digital controlled oscillator configured to generate a variable clock signal that is separated into two signal paths operating according to two separate clock domains. A first signal path is configured to generate a feedback signal that synchronizes the variable clock signal with a reference signal. A second signal path comprises a clock divider circuit configured to synchronously divide the variable clock signal to automatically generate a plurality of time-aligned output clock signals having different frequencies. A clock aligner monitors a phase difference between the variable clock signal and one of the plurality of time-aligned output clock signals and generates a control signal that causes a programmable delay line to automatically time-align the output clock signals with the variable clock signal. |
| US08373466B1 |
Frequency locking method, frequency locking circuit, oscillator gain anticipating method and oscillator gain anticipating circuit
A frequency locking method, for locking an output signal outputted from a frequency locking circuit to a target frequency, comprising: (a) detecting an output frequency of the output signal, wherein the output signal is generated according to an oscillating frequency of a controllable oscillator; (b) computing a frequency difference between the output frequency and the target frequency; (c) utilizing a controllable factor adjusting device to provide and to adjust a normalization factor according to the frequency difference, to anticipate a gain of the controllable oscillator and to provide a control signal related with the normalization factor and the frequency difference, wherein the output frequency is related with a product of the normalization factor and the gain of the controllable oscillator; and (d) controlling the controllable oscillator according to the control signal, such that the output frequency approaches to the target frequency. |
| US08373463B1 |
Low phase-noise PLL synthesizer with frequency accuracy indicator
A phase-locked loop (PLL) frequency synthesizer includes a phase detector, a low pass filter coupled to the phase detector, an amplifier coupled to the low pass filter, a voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) coupled to the amplifier, a power splitter coupled to the VCO, and a switch configured to select between a first branch and a second branch through which to couple the power splitter to the phase detector. The first branch includes a frequency divider while the second branch includes a mixer. The PLL frequency synthesizer also includes a frequency accuracy indicator that compares a frequency in the first branch with a frequency generated in the second branch, and confirms that the PLL frequency synthesizer is locked to a desired frequency upon receiving a phase lock signal, if the frequency generated in the first branch is the same as the frequency generated in the second branch. |
| US08373453B2 |
Semiconductor device
A circuit including a first buffer coupled to a power line to output a first output signal based on a data signal to an output terminal, a second buffer coupled to the power line to output a second output signal based on the data signal to the output terminal when a control signal is in a predetermined level, and a control circuit coupled to the power line and the control signal. |
| US08373447B2 |
Method and apparatus of alternating service modes of an SOI process circuit
A method and apparatus of alternating service modes of a silicon on insulator (SOI) process circuit includes determining whether the SOI process circuit is in a first or second service mode. A first clock or a second clock is selected for transmission along a buswire of the SOI process circuit based upon the determination. A receiving device of the signal is notified whether the SOI process circuit is operating in the first service mode or the second service mode. |
| US08373442B2 |
Selector circuit and processor system
A selector circuit includes a plurality of first selection circuits each configured to select one of plural input signals on the basis of a first selection control signal and to output a first output signal and a second selection circuit configured to select one of the first output signals on the basis of a second selection control signal. Each of the first selection circuits includes a charging circuit configured to charge a first node by electrically connecting the first node to a first voltage in a first period, and a discharge control circuit configured to control, on the basis of the first selection control signal, the input signals and the second selection control signal, whether to discharge the charged first node by electrically connecting the first node to a second voltage source having a potential lower than the first voltage source in a second period following the first period. |
| US08373441B1 |
Orienting voltage translators in input/output buffers
Described embodiments provide for a semiconductor device comprising a core and one or more input/output (I/O) buffers surrounding the core. The I/O buffers are adapted to transfer signals associated with core circuitry of the core. The I/O buffers comprise I/O cells having a first orientation and I/O cells having a second orientation. Each I/O cell has a corresponding translator having low voltage transistors in a corresponding footprint. The low voltage transistors in the first orientation I/O cells have the first orientation, and the low voltage transistors in the second orientation I/O cells have the first orientation. The footprints of the first orientation I/O cells and the second orientation I/O cells are compatible with one another. |
| US08373436B2 |
Adaptive termination
An apparatus for consolidated data services comprising a plurality of devices, a plurality of data services and a content application programming interface (API). A user API provides user identification for each of the plurality of devices. A feedback API configured to receive data from each of the plurality of devices. A device API configured to provide a client system to one or more of the plurality of devices using one or more of a plurality of device API methods. An update API configured to provide an updated client system to one or more of the plurality of devices using one more of a plurality of update API methods. A web service consolidator configured to control interactions between the content API, the user API, the feedback API, the device API, the update API, a plurality of data services and the plurality of devices. |
| US08373435B2 |
Method and apparatus for handling an output mismatch
A system comprises a first signal processing logic module and at least one further signal processing logic module. The system further comprises mismatch handler logic module arranged to detect a mismatch between outputs of the first and at least one further signal processing logic module, the mismatch between outputs indicating a failed operation. The mismatch handler logic module further arranged, upon detection of a mismatch between outputs of the first and at least one further signal processing logic module, to analyze internal states of the first and at least one further signal processing logic module, determine whether the cause of the output mismatch is due to a transient fault, and upon determination that the cause of the output mismatch is due to a transient fault, to re-synchronize the first and at least one further signal processing logic module. |
| US08373433B2 |
Test apparatus, test method and manufacturing method
Provided is a test apparatus that tests a device under test, having two operational modes which are (i) an edge strobe mode in which the test apparatus judges acceptability of a value of an output signal from the device under test at sequentially designated reference timings, based on expected value information, and (ii) a multi-strobe mode in which the test apparatus judges the acceptability of values of the output signal at a plurality of strobes for each reference timing, based on expected value information, the plurality of strobes being generated based on the reference timing, and comprising a conversion control section that converts an expected value pattern supplied thereto into expected value information to be used in the edge strobe mode or into expected value information to be used in the multi-strobe mode, depending on which of the edge strobe mode and the multi-strobe mode is selected. |
| US08373430B1 |
Low inductance contact probe with conductively coupled plungers
A low inductance contact probe comprises conductively coupled plungers. The plungers have coupling means which enable them to be slidably and non-rotatably engaged. A coil spring is attached to the plungers in a manner that prevents rotation of the spring's ends. The spring provides an axial plunger bias, and a torsional bias for conductive coupling between the plungers. The torsional bias is generated by an axial displacement of the spring and by twisting the spring a predetermined angle prior to attachment to the plungers. Torsion-induced contact forces between the plungers assure a direct conductive path through the plungers. The torsional bias further enables a positive attachment of the spring to the plungers. Plungers with hermaphroditic coupling means can be fabricated from a drawn profiled stock by stamping or machining. Essential plunger coupling features can be prefabricated in a drawn profiled stock with a high degree of dimensional accuracy and reproducibility. |
| US08373429B2 |
Method and apparatus for interrogating an electronic component
A method and apparatus for interrogating an electronic component, includes a body having an interface for an interrogating device to use as a conduit in reliably performing multiple discrete interrogations of the electronic component without the interrogating device physically touching the electronic component. |
| US08373424B2 |
Apparatus for detecting fault of flying capacitor of insulated condition detecting unit
An apparatus for detecting a fault of a flying capacitor of an insulated condition detecting unit measures (step S1), at the start of discharge of the flying capacitor, a discharge voltage of the flying capacitor according to a charge voltage of a read capacitor. After a period from the start of discharge, the apparatus measures (step S3) a discharge voltage of the flying capacitor according to a charge voltage of the read capacitor. According to a difference between the measured discharge voltages, the apparatus obtains (step S5) a discharge amount of the flying capacitor, compares the discharge amount with a reference threshold, and diagnoses (step S7) an open fault of four capacitors that constitute the flying capacitor. |
| US08373422B2 |
Integrated systems testing
A system including an interface and a plurality of solder joint testing modules. The interface is configured to receive test configuration data to configure each of a plurality of integrated system test (IST) modules. Each of the plurality of solder joint testing modules is configured to, based on the test configuration data, i) apply a pulse having a predetermined amplitude and width to a solder joint associated with a respective one of the plurality of IST modules, ii) monitor a resultant waveform that is generated in response to the pulse, and iii) determine an integrity of the solder joint in response to the resultant waveform. Each of the plurality of solder joint testing modules and the respective ones of the plurality of IST modules are located on a same system on chip (SOC). |
| US08373419B2 |
Lifetime estimating method and deterioration suppressing method for rechargeable lithium battery, lifetime estimating apparatus, deterioration suppressor, and battery pack and charger using the same
In a lifetime estimating method for a rechargeable lithium battery, the open circuit voltages of the rechargeable lithium battery after discharging for at least two different charge/discharge cycle numbers are detected while charge/discharge cycles go on. Next, at least the two of the voltage values are plotted for respective cycle numbers, and a circular arc passing the plotted points is drawn. Furthermore, the lifetime of the rechargeable lithium battery is estimated based on a size of the circular arc. The progression of deterioration can be suppressed by controlling the charge and discharge of the rechargeable lithium battery based on the lifetime estimation. |
| US08373418B2 |
Subsea electronic modules
A module for use as a subsea electronic module of a subsea well, comprises an input (7) for receiving signals from a sensor arrangement which senses at least one parameter of a well, the module including a plurality of separate, different electronic circuits (9), each of which is selectable to be in communication with said input and each of which is adapted to co-operate with a respective, different form of such a sensor arrangement. |
| US08373414B2 |
Magnetic resonance system and method for spatially resolved detection of movement processes
A method for spatially resolved detection and display of movement processes in an examination subject by means of magnetic resonance tomography includes the steps of imposing a magnetization pattern on at least a portion of a fluid medium located in the intestine of the examination subject, acquiring at least one image data set or a portion of an image data set that images the region of the examination subject on which the magnetization pattern was imposed, determining at least one item of movement information from the at least one image data set or portion of an image data set, by an analysis of the magnetization pattern in a processor, and presenting the at least one item of movement information through presentation device in communication with the processor. |
| US08373412B2 |
NMR-LWD imaging tool
An apparatus for estimating a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) property of an earth formation penetrated by a borehole, the apparatus including: a logging tool having a source of a static magnetic field configured to polarize a region of investigation in the earth formation; a transmitter antenna disposed at the logging tool and configured to transmit electromagnetic energy into the region of investigation; at least one receiver sensor disposed at the logging tool and configured to receive NMR signals from the region of investigation in response to an interaction between the static magnetic field and the transmitted electromagnetic energy; and a processor configured to: receive the NMR signals from the at least one receiver sensor; associate the NMR signals received from the at least one receiver sensor with an azimuthal direction at which the NMR signals were received; and estimate the property from the NMR signals and the associated azimuthal directions. |
| US08373411B2 |
Sensor system for an in-line inspection tool
In an in-line pipe inspection tool, sensors for inspecting the pipe are mounted on sensor blocks moveable relative to the body of the tool. However, when the sensor blocks move radially to conform to different pipe diameters, the circumferential distances between the sensors changes. To ameliorate the effect of this, the sensor blocks have a shape such that one axial edge of each sensor block circumferentially overlaps the opposite edge of an adjacent sensor block. With such an arrangement, when the sensor block are operating at minimum diameter, part of one sensor block will overlap an adjacent block, in the circumferential direction. As the diameter of the pipeline in which the pig is used increases, the degree of overlap will reduce, and may even reduce to zero, but there will still be no overall axial gaps between the sensor blocks. Thus, by suitable shaping of the sensor blocks the tool can be used with a wide range of pipe diameters. |
| US08373409B2 |
Fan speed testing system and method
A fan speed testing system for testing a testing fan includes a testing fan, a collecting module, a processing module, a converting module; and a displaying module. A label is attached to the testing fan and capable of rotating with the testing fan. The collecting module is configured to collect light reflected off of the label as the fan rotates in order to produce a pulse signal. The processing module is configured to adjust the pulse signal to be a standard square wave. The converting module is configured to obtain a fan speed data of the testing fan according to conversion times between high levels and low levels of the standard square wave. The displaying module is configured to display the fan speed data. |
| US08373406B2 |
Electrical power quality test circuitry and method
Electrical power quality test circuitry for testing response of an electrical device to input power disturbances is provided. The test circuitry includes a power structure having a rectifier configured to convert incoming AC voltage to DC voltage on a DC bus, and a power inverter configured to convert DC voltage from the bus to three-phase output AC voltage applied to the electrical device. The test circuitry also includes a control circuit configured to apply control signals to at least the power inverter to emulate at least one of a change in the amplitude of at least one phase of the output AC voltage at least one phase angle of at least one phase of the output AC voltage, and a frequency change for all phases of the output AC voltage. |
| US08373402B2 |
Method of digital control of PWM converters achieving fast transient response and low steady-state jittering
A pulse width modulator (PWM) control system for a power converter achieves a fast transient response and low steady-state jittering. The control system manages the ADC sample timing to reduce noise susceptibility, and the ADC includes a regulation bin or dead band to minimize large phase corrections and thus eliminate limit cycling. The PWM module includes a dithering circuit to accumulate fractional PWM control signals to reduce period jitter by increasing the effective resolution of the pulse width modulator. |
| US08373400B2 |
System and method for smoothing mode transitions in a voltage supply
A system, voltage supply circuit, control unit for a voltage supply circuit, and method of controlling a voltage supply circuit are disclosed. For example, a system is disclosed that comprises at least one electronic circuit and a voltage supply unit coupled to an input of the at least one electronic circuit. The voltage supply unit includes a power unit to supply a voltage to the at least one electronic circuit and a control unit to control an operating mode of the power unit, an output of the control unit coupled to an input of the power unit. The control unit includes a mode selector to select the operating mode of the power unit, coupled to at least a first output of the power unit, an amplifier coupled to the at least a first output of the power unit, a compensation circuit, and a first switching unit coupled to the mode selector and the compensation circuit, to couple the compensation circuit to the amplifier if a selected operating mode of the power unit is a first mode. |
| US08373394B1 |
System and method for power factor correction
A system and method for dynamically adjusting capacitance added in parallel to an electrical line input for improving efficiency of an electrical system. A microprocessor monitors in real time the current and voltage wave forms of a system and selects the optimum amount of capacitance from a bank of capacitors of different values. The system is implemented at the utility transformer to encourage adoption of the device by utility companies and customers. |
| US08373392B2 |
Battery system and protection apparatus thereof
A battery system includes a battery and a battery protection apparatus. The battery protection apparatus protects the battery from over-discharge. The battery protection apparatus includes a voltage controlled switch, a start switch, and a voltage detecting unit. The voltage controlled switch establishes an electrical connection between the battery and the load. The start switch turns on the voltage controlled switch when actuated. The voltage detecting unit detects a battery voltage of the battery and generates a detecting voltage according to the battery voltage. The voltage controlled switch is turned off when the detecting voltage is lower than a predetermined value. |
| US08373388B2 |
Portable device and battery charging method thereof
Provided is a portable device. The portable device includes a near distance antenna, a long distance antenna, a first power generation circuit, a second power generation circuit, and a battery. The near distance antenna receives a first power source signal in an electromagnetic inductive coupling scheme. The long distance antenna receives a second power source signal in a magnetic resonance scheme. The first power generation circuit generates a power source from the first power source signal. The second power generation circuit generates a power source from the second power source signal. The battery is charged with the generated power source. |
| US08373384B2 |
Capacitor-integrated feedthrough assembly with improved grounding for an implantable medical device
A feedthrough assembly for use with implantable medical devices having a shield structure, the feedthrough assembly engaging with the remainder of the associated implantable medical device to form a seal with the medical device to inhibit unwanted gas, liquid, or solid exchange into or from the device. One or more feedthrough wires extend through the feedthrough assembly to facilitate transceiving of the electrical signals with one or more implantable patient leads. The feedthrough assembly is connected to a mechanical support which houses one or more filtering capacitors that are configured to filter and remove undesired frequencies from the electrical signals received via the feedthrough wires before the signals reach the electrical circuitry inside the implantable medical device. The mechanical support may further include an isolation structure that isolates the feedthrough wires. |
| US08373379B2 |
Methods and devices for estimation of induction motor inductance parameters
Methods and devices are presented herein for estimating induction motor inductance parameters based on instantaneous reactive power. The induction motor inductance parameters, e.g., the stator inductance and the total leakage factor, can be estimated from motor nameplate data and instantaneous reactive power without involving speed sensors or electronic injection circuits. In one embodiment, the method includes: measuring voltages and currents; converting the measured voltages and currents into discrete-time voltage and current samples by analog-to-digital converters; synthesizing a complex voltage from the discrete-time voltage samples; synthesizing a complex current from the discrete-time current samples; acquiring and storing motor nameplate data; detecting instantaneous rotor speed by calculating an instantaneous rotor slot harmonic frequency with respect to an instantaneous fundamental frequency; calculating, via an induction motor inductance estimator, the motor's instantaneous reactive power and other intermediate quantities; and outputting the stator inductance and the total leakage factor. |
| US08373378B2 |
Systems and method for motor speed control
In various embodiments, the present disclosure provides a speed control system for a motor that includes a fixed speed control portion and a variable speed control portion. The fixed speed control portion is operable to control a speed of a motor in a fixed speed mode wherein the motor is operated at a preselected fixed speed below a predetermined fixed speed mode threshold speed. The variable speed control portion is operable to control the motor in a variable speed mode wherein the motor is operated such that a speed of the motor can be selectively varied within a range between the fixed speed mode threshold speed and a maximum motor speed. The system additionally includes a switching device structured and operable to selectively switch the speed control system between the fixed speed mode and the variable speed mode. |
| US08373376B2 |
Drive system and method for activating the same
This invention discloses a method for activating a drive system for control surfaces or working systems of an aircraft, wherein the speed of a drive unit of the drive system is regulated, and after a starting operation the maximum driving power available during the further operation for speed regulation of the drive unit is reduced. Likewise, this invention comprises a drive system for control surfaces or working systems of an aircraft, comprising a drive unit with speed regulation and a corresponding control. |
| US08373375B2 |
Electro-mechanical drive with extended constant power speed range
Embodiments of the invention comprise a multi-input range box driven by multiple electric drives. Range shifting involves momentarily increasing the current through all but a given motor, to a level that will carry the entire load, comprising specified constant power. Simultaneously, torque of the given motor is reduced to zero. The given motor is then disconnected from supplying power, is synchronized to the input speed of the new speed range, and is then engaged for the new range. The above sequence is then repeated for each remaining motors, in turn. The motor current is re-equalized for all of the motors, after all the motors have been connected to provide power at the new range. Thus, there is no interruption in power flow during a range shift, and the motors are always used to deliver power, rather than to serve as a brake. |
| US08373374B2 |
Apparatus equipped with motor and driving method for the motor
An apparatus including a DC motor includes a driven member configured to be driven by the DC motor, and a drive control unit configured to define a plurality of predetermined phases of the DC motor as target stop phases and to cause the DC motor to make at least one rotation to perform preliminary driving that rotates the DC motor to each target stop phase by driving and stopping the DC motor, configured to acquire a difference value between the target stop phase and an actual stop phase for each target stop phase, and configured to drive the DC motor so that the driven member is repeatedly moved and stopped in the operation of the driven member and to perform control so that, based on the difference value acquired by the acquisition unit, electric power is supplied to the DC motor in a phase corresponding to a stop position of the driven member. |
| US08373367B2 |
Dynamo-electric machine control system and vehicle driving system including the same
A dynamo-electric machine control system including a dynamo-electric machine and an inverter that is interposed between a battery and the dynamo-electric machine and that controls a current flowing through the dynamo-electric machine, wherein a rotation speed and an output torque of the dynamo-electric machine are controlled by the inverter, the dynamo-electric machine control system includes a battery power deriving unit that derives a battery power to be supplied from the battery when the dynamo-electric machine is operated at the rotation speed and the output torque; a limit power determining unit that variably determines a limit power, which is a maximum allowable value of the battery power, in accordance with a battery voltage; and a torque limiting unit that limits the torque of the dynamo-electric machine such that the battery power derived by the battery power deriving unit does not exceed the limit power. |
| US08373366B2 |
User interface for scene setting control with light balance
A user interface (240) includes buttons (410) associated with lighting scenes stored in a memory (230). Selection of one of the buttons (410) selects an associated lighting scene as a focus group including focus light sources, where the remaining light sources are included in a surrounding group. A contrast switch (430, 435) of the user interface (240) may be configured to change a ratio of the focus group to the surrounding group, and a brightness switch (440, 445) may be configured to change the intensity by multiplying by a factor focus intensity levels of the focus light sources and/or surrounding intensity levels of the remaining light sources. |
| US08373363B2 |
Reduction of harmonic distortion for LED loads
Apparatus and associated methods reduce harmonic distortion of a excitation current by diverting the excitation current substantially away from a number of LEDs arranged in a series circuit until the current or its associated periodic excitation voltage reaches a predetermined threshold level, and ceasing the current diversion while the excitation current or voltage is substantially above the predetermined threshold level. In an illustrative embodiment, a rectifier may receive an AC (e.g., sinusoidal) voltage and deliver unidirectional current to a string of series-connected LEDs. An effective turn-on threshold voltage of the diode string may be reduced by diverting current around at least one of the diodes in the string while the AC voltage is below a predetermined level. In various examples, selective current diversion within the LED string may extend the input current conduction angle and thereby substantially reduce harmonic distortion for AC LED lighting systems. |
| US08373359B2 |
Light-emitting device and driving method thereof
According to one embodiment, a light-emitting device includes an emitting layer, first and second electrodes, a voltage-supply circuit, an ammeter and a controller. The emitting layer includes a solution containing an emitting material and a solvent. The first and second electrodes are in contact with the solution. The voltage-supply circuit applies an operating voltage between the first and second electrodes. The ammeter measures the amount of electric current flowing between the first and second electrodes. The controller controls the operation of the voltage-supply circuit such that the polarity of the operating voltage reverses and determining a timing of reversing the polarity based on the output of the ammeter. |
| US08373347B2 |
Variable effect light string
A light system that is controllable to generate a plurality of selected lighting effects, the light system includes a main processor, the main processor being in communication with a plurality of light sources; and each of the plurality of light sources having a distinct, known address whereby one of more of the light sources are individually addressable by the main processor, a known address being received by a selected light source of the plurality of light sources and acting to set the selected light source of the plurality of light sources in a disposition to receive a subsequent command from the main processor for generating a selected lighting effect. A light source and a method of forming a light system are further included. |
| US08373345B2 |
Control of the lighting of an elevator car
The invention relates to a control (7) of the lighting of an elevator car (3) as well as to a method for controlling the lighting of an elevator car. The lighting of an elevator car according to the invention is controlled at least partly on the basis of information about a change in the speed of the elevator car. |
| US08373342B2 |
Light-emitting apparatus, illumination apparatus, and display apparatus
A light-emitting apparatus includes: light-emitting devices emitting light of different single colors in a visible wavelength region, wherein each of the light-emitting devices includes an organic layer which is interposed between first and second electrodes and in which a first or second light-emitting layer emitting light of different single colors is included at a first or second position separated from each other in a direction from the first electrode to the second electrode; a first reflective interface which is provided on the side of the first electrode so as to reflect light emitted from the first or second light-emitting layer to be emitted from the side of the second electrode; and a second reflective interface and a third reflective interface which are provided on the side of the second electrode at mutually separated positions in that order in a direction from the first electrode to the second electrode. |
| US08373339B2 |
Method of patterning transparent conductive film, thin film transistor substrate using the same and fabricating method thereof
A method of patterning a transparent conductive film adaptive for selectively etching a transparent conductive film without any mask processes, a thin film transistor for a display device using the same and a fabricating method thereof are disclosed. In the method of patterning the transparent conductive film, an inorganic material substrate is prepared. An organic material pattern is formed at a desired area of the inorganic material substrate. A thin film having a different crystallization rate depending upon said inorganic material and said organic material is formed. The thin film is selectively etched in accordance with said crystallization rate. |
| US08373331B2 |
Use of piezo motor to operate a ring pointer over display
A display system is disclosed. The display system includes a display for presenting a visual output to a user, a piezoelectric element overlaying the display, and a rotor disposed adjacent the piezoelectric element and in mechanical communication therewith, wherein a selective energizing of the piezoelectric element causes a rotational movement of the rotor. |
| US08373330B2 |
Piezoelectric actuator employing switch
One embodiment of the present invention features a circuit for driving a piezoelectric actuator, comprising a first transmission line to provide an input signal having a time-varying voltage; a second transmission line to provide a predetermined voltage current; a piezoelectric element; and a switch coupled to the second transmission line and the piezoelectric element, the switch configured to electrically connect and disconnect the predetermined voltage current to and from the piezoelectric element based on the input signal. |
| US08373328B2 |
Pulsed multi-rotor constant air gap switched reluctance motor
An electric motor with two or more stator sections, each possessing at least two salient pole projections having power windings, and two or more armature sections on a common shaft. The armature sections are at an angle to each other: e.g. 90 degrees for two armatures, 120 degrees for three armatures. Each armature has a lamination stack or ferrite core. The armature sections form a constant air gap with the field poles, and have an elliptical profile with respect to the output shaft. The armature sections have no electrical windings, or conductors and require no slip rings, rotor coils or permanent magnets. The power windings are energized by pulses of electric current. Said pulses are automatically supplied to the salient pole nearest the longest rotor flux path available, as determined by a shaft position sensor. |
| US08373326B2 |
Axial gap motor, compressor, motor system, and power generator
An axial gap motor includes a stator having stator teeth, and also includes a rotor opposed to the stator with a gap in an axial direction of the stator. Each of the stator teeth includes a stator tooth body, a stator tooth end joined to at least one axial-direction end of the stator tooth body, and a stator coil disposed around the stator tooth body. The stator tooth body includes a wound core comprised of a multi-layered amorphous foil strip winding. The stator tooth end is formed by a compact including a powder magnetic core, and the stator tooth end includes a surface opposed to the rotor. A cross-sectional area of the stator tooth end perpendicular to an axis of the amorphous foil strip winding is larger than a cross-sectional area of the stator tooth body perpendicular to the axis of the amorphous foil strip winding. |
| US08373325B2 |
Rotating electric machine system
A rotating electric machine system includes a rotor having a rotor plane. The rotor includes magnetic salient poles in a circumferential direction on the rotor plane. Adjacent magnetic salient poles are magnetized in different polarities from each other by a permanent magnet. A control magnet is arranged in an inside part of the adjacent magnetic salient poles. An excitation coil is placed so as to make an excitation flux collectively in the rotor. The magnetization state of the control magnet where the magnetic flux by the armature coils and the excitation flux flow in a same direction is changed irreversibly. An amount of the magnetic flux flowing through the armature coils is controlled by changing the magnetization state of the control magnet in accordance with an output of the rotating electric machine system so that the output is optimized. |
| US08373322B2 |
Drive device
The invention relates to a drive device (1), in particular for window wiping devices in motor vehicles, having a motor housing (2) which is fixed to a gearbox housing (3) which has a housing upper side (7), and having an air-permeable diaphragm (14) which closes off an opening (15) which is provided in the gearbox housing (3), said diaphragm (14) having the purpose of equalizing pressure when fluctuations in temperature occur. The invention provides that the diaphragm (14) is arranged on a housing side section (16) which runs at an angle to a housing upper side (7). In addition, the invention relates to a motor vehicle having a mounted drive device (1). |
| US08373320B2 |
Stator, motor, and compressor
A stator for a motor of a compressor includes a stator core, an insulator fitted on an axial end face of the stator core, and coils wound around the stator core and the insulator. The insulator has an annular portion, a plurality of circumferentially arranged tooth portions projecting radially inwardly from an inner peripheral surface of the annular portion, and a cylindrical-shaped wall section erected on an axial end face of the annular portion. The coils include crossover wires routed on an outer peripheral surface of the wall section of the insulator so as to extend obliquely relative to a plane orthogonal to an axis of the stator, as viewed in a direction orthogonal to the axis. |
| US08373313B2 |
Three-way switch for home automation apparatus and method
A switch for premises electrical circuits provides wireless control compatible with at least one home automation control system technology. A single switch design can operate two-, three-, and four-way circuits without alteration, and without recourse to coordinating remote switches. The switch includes processor functions for restoring a previous state after power interruption, and for establishing a state commanded during the power interruption. The switch uses two single-pole, single-throw relays for positive safety lockout, and adjusts relay actuation timing with reference to power waveform zero-crossing for contact arc reduction with inductive, tungsten, and capacitive loads. |
| US08373311B2 |
Electronic power-saving device
A single-phase electronic power-saving device includes at least one power-saving unit. The power-saving unit includes two ceramic piece capacitors, a safe capacitor, an inductor, a SCR, a first resistor, a second resistor, a live wire and a zero line; the two ceramic piece capacitors connected in series as a whole is connected in parallel with the safe capacitor to two terminals of which are connected the anode and the cathode of SCR, respectively; the anode of SCR is also connected to one terminal of the inductor, the branch composed of the first and the second resistors connected in series is connected in parallel so that one terminal of which is connected to one terminal of the inductor and the other is connected to the cathode of SCR; the gate of SCR is connected between the first and the second resistors. |
| US08373309B2 |
Systems and methods for asynchronous sampling data conversion
Disclosed herein are systems and methods for converting data samples representing alternating electric currents. The data samples may be obtained by sampling a first alternating electric current having a first frequency at a sampling frequency, sampling a second alternating electric current having a second frequency at the sampling frequency, and converting the data samples using a conversion algorithm to compensate for any discrepancy caused by the difference between the first frequency and the second frequency. The corrected data samples may be utilized to determine various characteristics of the alternating electric current, such as voltage magnitude, voltage phase angle, current magnitude, current phase angle, and other related attributes. In one application, the systems and methods disclosed herein may be utilized in connection with an intelligent electronic device used to couple a first electrical system, such as a power generator, to a second electrical system, such as a utility intertie. |
| US08373305B2 |
Hybrid installation with a biogas installation
A hybrid installation for providing electric energy from regenerative energy sources, comprising a biogas installation that provides electric energy, and at least one additional energy converter, which provides electric energy and whose releasable power is depending of external influence factors, of the wind supply and/or the sun irradiation in particular, wherein the electric energy of the biogas installation and the electric energy of the at least one additional energy converter are fed into a common mains grid, characterized in that the biogas installation features a gas turbine with an electric generator which is operated by the biogas produced in the biogas installation, and whose waste heat can be supplied to the biogas installation via a heat exchanger. |
| US08373304B2 |
Current-sharing supply circuit for driving multiple sets of DC loads
A current-sharing supply circuit includes a current providing circuit, a first output rectifier circuit, a second output rectifier circuit, a first current-sharing transformer, a second current-sharing transformer, a first current-sharing circuit and a second current-sharing circuit. By adjusting the equivalent impedance values of the first current-sharing circuit, the second current-sharing circuit, the primary winding coil of the first current-sharing transformer and the primary winding coil of the second current-sharing transformer, the first output current and the second output current are substantially identical. |
| US08373300B2 |
Power conversion apparatus and electric vehicle
A power conversion apparatus capable of improving the impedance characteristics between each of two power modules and each of a plurality of capacitor cells, the power conversion apparatus including: plural capacitor cells connected in parallel between a three-layer laminated wiring board consisting of a positive polarity conductor board and a negative polarity conductor board formed widely in the direction of the parallel disposition of the power modules and laminated with an insulation sheet therebetween; a three-layer laminated conductor board consisting of a positive polarity conductor board and a negative polarity conductor board formed widely in the direction of the parallel direction of the power modules and laminated with an insulation sheet therebetween and used to connect the positive and negative polarity sides of each of the two power modules to the laminated wiring board respectively. |
| US08373297B2 |
Wind turbine generator and motor
A wind turbine includes a quartet of pivot shafts in paired parallel relationship and transversely mounted on a central drive shaft, each pivot shaft supporting a pair of wings at opposed ends thereof, the wings offset by 90°. Each pivot shaft rotates cyclically through 90° to move each wing from a wind-engaging orientation (drive position) in which the wing presents a flat surface approximately transverse to the incident wind, to a minimum drag position (glide position). The wings of each pair of pivot shafts open into the drive position at the same time and rotational angle of the turbine. A backstop at the site of each drive position transfers force from each wing to the central drive shaft. |
| US08373291B2 |
Wind park with voltage regulation of the wind energy systems and operating method
A wind park and operating method thereof. The wind park includes at least two wind energy systems each comprising a generator and converter for generating electrical energy and a control system, a park master designed for active and idle power control that transmits a control signal for idle power via a communications network to the wind energy systems, and a connection network feeding generated electrical energy into a grid. The wind energy system can include an idle power regulator and a supplementary regulator, the control signals of each of which are linked together. Thus, a combination of idle power and voltage regulation is achieved that combines the advantages of each. Accordingly, the wind park can have high dynamic and stability notwithstanding erratic changes in the grid. |
| US08373290B2 |
Deep water power generation system and apparatus
A system for generation of power using an apparatus in deep water is disclosed. The system includes a ballast buoy configured to achieve a desired depth in the deep water, a substantially vertical hollow tube attached to the ballast buoy that is submerged under water when the ballast buoy achieves the desired depth in the deep water, and a converter for converting the physical environment created in the substantially vertical hollow tube by placement of the ballast buoy at the desired depth in the deep water. |
| US08373287B2 |
Polymeric compositions comprising per(phenylethynyl) arene derivatives
A polymeric composition comprising a first polymer chosen from a poly(arylene ether) polymer including polymer repeat units of the following structure: —(O—Ar1—O—Ar2—O—)m—(—O—Ar3—O—Ar4—O)n- where Ar1, Ar2, Ar3, and Ar4 are identical or different aryl radicals, m is 0 to 1, n is 1 m; a polysulfone, a polyimide, a poly(etherketone), a polyurea, a polyurethane, and combinations thereof and a second polymer comprising a per(phenylethynyl) arene polymer derivative. Cured films containing the polymer can exhibit at least one of the following properties: Tg from 160° C. to 180° C., a dielectric constant below 2.7 with frequency independence, and a maximum moisture absorption of less than 0.17 wt %. Accordingly, the polymer is especially useful, for example, in interlayer dielectrics and in die-attach adhesives. |
| US08373286B2 |
Curable organopolysiloxane composition, optical semiconductor element sealant, and optical semiconductor device
A curable organopolysiloxane composition and an optical semiconductor element sealant, each comprising (A) a diorganopolysiloxane that has at least 2 alkenyl groups wherein at least 70 mole % of all the siloxane units are methylphenylsiloxane units and the total content of 1,3,5-trimethyl-1,3,5-triphenylcyclotrisiloxane and 1,3,5,7-tetramethyl-1,3,5,7-tetraphenylcyclotetrasiloxane is no more than 5 weight %, (B) an organopolysiloxane that has at least 2 silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms wherein at least 15 mole % of the silicon-bonded organic groups are phenyl groups, and (C) a hydrosilylation reaction catalyst. An optical semiconductor device in which an optical semiconductor element within a housing is sealed with the cured product from the aforementioned composition. |
| US08373284B2 |
Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device carries a semiconductor component on a substrate and having an underfill resin applied in a gap between the substrate and the semiconductor component. The semiconductor device comprises: a lyophilic area in a portion of a region of one or both of the substrate and the semiconductor component which is in contact with the underfill resin. The lyophilic area is processed to exhibit lyophilicity with respect at least to the liquid underfill resin in comparison with an ambient region of the lyophilic area. |
| US08373280B2 |
Manufacturing fixture for a ramp-stack chip package using solder for coupling a ramp component
An assembly component and a technique for assembling a chip package using the assembly component are described. This chip package includes a set of semiconductor dies that are arranged in a stack in a vertical direction, which are offset from each other in a horizontal direction to define a stepped terraced at one side of the vertical stack. Moreover, the chip package may be assembled using the assembly component. In particular, the assembly component may include a housing having another stepped terrace. This other stepped terrace may include a sequence of steps in the vertical direction, which are offset from each other in the horizontal direction. Furthermore, the housing may be configured to mate with the set of semiconductor dies such that the set of semiconductor dies are arranged in the stack in the vertical direction. For example, the other stepped terrace may approximately be a mirror image of the stepped terrace. |
| US08373277B2 |
Stacked die in die BGA package
Semiconductor devices and stacked die assemblies, and methods of fabricating the devices and assemblies for increasing semiconductor device density are provided. |
| US08373276B2 |
Printed wiring board and method for manufacturing the same
Embodiments of the present invention provide a printed wiring board in which solder bumps of a mounted semiconductor chip are less prone to be ruptured. The printed wiring board includes a dielectric layer having a main surface and a connecting pad embedded in the dielectric layer. The connecting pad is shaped like a brimmed hat. That is, the connecting pad includes a plate portion whose diameter is larger than that of a contact portion. The main surface of the contact portion is exposed at the main surface of the dielectric layer. Diameter of the contact portion is substantially the same as diameter of an under bump metal at the semiconductor chip side, when mechanical stress is applied, the stress disperses evenly to both of the connecting pad and the under bump metal, and thus rupture is less prone to occur. |
| US08373275B2 |
Fine pitch solder bump structure with built-in stress buffer
A fine pitch solder bump structure with a built-in stress buffer that is utilized in electronic packages, and a method of producing the fine pitch solder bump structure with built-in stress buffer. Employed is a very thick final passivation layer that is constituted of a polyimide as a so-called “cushion” for a minimal thickness of UBM (BLM) pad and solder material, while concurrently completely separating the resultingly produced polyimide islands, so that the polyimide material provides most of the physical height for the “standoff” of a modified C4 (controlled collapse chip connection) structure. In employing the polyimide material as the primary structural component of the vertical chip package interconnect in this particular inventive manner, the inherent stress buffering property of the polyimide material is utilized to full advantage by effectively reducing the high stresses encountered during chip manufacture processing steps, such as chip join, reflow, preconditioning and reliability thermal cycle stressing. |
| US08373272B2 |
Device under bonding pad using single metallization
An integrated circuit device comprising an improved bonding pad structure. The device has a semiconductor substrate. A plurality of active MOS devices are formed on the semiconductor substrate. The device has an interlayer dielectric layer overlying the plurality of active MOS devices and at least one single metal bonding pad formed on the interlayer dielectric layer and directly over at least one of the active devices. At least four edge regions are formed on a square shape of the at least one single metal bonding pad. An angled cut region is formed on each of the four edge regions. The device has a buffer metal layer free region located between the plurality of active MOS devices and the at least one single metal bonding pad. The buffer metal layer free region does not have a buffer metal layer in the interlayer dielectric layer. |
| US08373271B2 |
Interconnect structure with an oxygen-doped SiC antireflective coating and method of fabrication
An interconnect structure is provided that includes at least one patterned and cured photo-patternable low k material located on a surface of a patterned and cured oxygen-doped SiC antireflective coating (ARC). A conductively filled region is located within the at least one patterned and cured photo-patternable low k material and the patterned and cured oxygen-doped SiC ARC. The oxygen-doped SiC ARC, which is a thin layer (i.e., less than 400 angstroms), does not produce standing waves that may degrade the diffusion barrier and the electrically conductive feature that are embedded within the patterned and cured photo-patternable low k dielectric material and, as such, structural integrity is maintained. Furthermore, since a thin oxygen-doped SiC ARC is employed, the plasma etch process time used to open the material stack of the ARC/dielectric cap can be reduced, thus reducing potential plasma damage to the patterned and cured photo-patternable low k material. Also, the oxygen-doped SiC ARC can withstand current BEOL processing conditions. |
| US08373265B2 |
Package substrate having a through hole and method of fabricating the same
A package substrate includes a core board having a through hole; a circuit layer formed on the core board; a metallic ring disposed on the core board surrounding a contour of the through hole, the metallic ring having opening portions positioned opposite to each other, making the metallic ring having a disconnected manner; and an embedded component installed in the through hole. When the embedded component is deviated in the through hole to allow the electrodes to be in contact with the metallic ring, the electrodes are prevented from coming into contact with the same section of the metallic ring to thereby avoid short circuit. |
| US08373257B2 |
Top exposed clip with window array
A clip for a semiconductor device package may include a metal sheet including an array of windows and one or more conductive fingers. Each of the conductive fingers has a first end and a second end. The first end is electrically connected to the metal sheet at one of the windows. Each of the conductive fingers is adapted to provide electrical connection to a top semiconductor region of a semiconductor device or a lead frame at the second end. |
| US08373256B2 |
Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device includes: a semiconductor substrate; a semiconductor element formed on a principal surface of the semiconductor substrate and having a multiple-layered interconnect layer; and a heterostructure magnetic shield covering the semiconductor element. The heterostructure magnetic shield includes a first magnetic shield layered structure and a second magnetic shield layered structure that covers the first magnetic shield layered structure. Each of a first and a second magnetic shield layered structures includes a magnetic shielding film composed of a magnetic substance and covering the semiconductor element and a buffer film disposed between the semiconductor element and the magnetic shield films and preventing a diffusion of the magnetic substance. |
| US08373255B2 |
Diode for adjusting pin resistance of a semiconductor device
A diode comprises a P-type well formed in a semiconductor substrate, at least one N-type impurity doping area formed in the P-type well, an isolation area formed to surround the N-type impurity doping area, a P-type impurity doping area formed to surround the isolation area, first contacts formed in the N-type impurity doping area in a single row or a plurality of rows, and second contacts formed in the P-type impurity doping area in a single row or a plurality of rows, wherein pin resistance can be adjusted through changing any one of a distance between the N-type impurity doping area and the P-type impurity doping area, a contact pitch between the first contacts, and a contact pitch between the second contacts. |
| US08373246B2 |
Semiconductor device comprising stack of pn junction diode and schottky barrier diode
Provided is a semiconductor device having an anode of a Si-FRD and a cathode of a Si-SBD which are serially connected. The Si-SBD has a junction capacitance whose amount of accumulable charge is equal to or more than an amount of charge occurring at the time of reverse recovery of the Si-FRD, and has a lower breakdown voltage than the Si-FRD does. |
| US08373245B2 |
2DEG Schottky diode formed in nitride material with a composite Schottky/ohmic electrode structure and method of making the same
Disclosed is a semiconductor device including: a base substrate; a semiconductor layer disposed on the base substrate; an ohmic electrode part which has ohmic electrode lines disposed in a first direction, on the semiconductor layer; and a Schottky electrode part which is disposed to be spaced apart from the ohmic electrode lines on the semiconductor layer and includes Schottky electrode lines disposed in the first direction, wherein the Schottky electrode lines and the ohmic electrode lines are alternately disposed in parallel, and the ohmic electrode part further includes first ohmic electrodes covered by the Schottky electrode lines on the semiconductor layer. |
| US08373243B2 |
Seal ring support for backside illuminated image sensor
A backside illuminated imaging sensor with a seal ring support includes an epitaxial layer having an imaging array formed in a front side of the epitaxial layer. A metal stack is coupled to the front side of the epitaxial layer, wherein the metal stack includes a seal ring formed in an edge region of the imaging sensor. An opening is included that extends from the back side of the epitaxial layer to a metal pad of the seal ring to expose the metal pad. The seal ring support is disposed on the metal pad and within the opening to structurally support the seal ring. |
| US08373242B2 |
Photonic power switch and method of controlling current flow in the photonic power switch and use of such photonic power switch
Photonic power switch and method of controlling current flow in the photonic power switch, the photonic power switch comprising an avalanche photo diode installed on a switch element, the switch element comprising a carrier donor layer and a channel layer. Photons are injected in the avalanche photo diode for generating electrical charge carriers by photoeffect, and the generated charge carriers are accelerated the by an electric field so as to produce an avalanche effect and are injected from the avalanche photo diode into the carrier donor layer of the switch element. A conduction layer built between the donor layer and the channel layer of the switch element is modulated, thereby modulating a current flow between a drain and a source of the power switch through said conduction layer. |
| US08373241B2 |
Antireflective hard mask compositions
The invention includes new organic-containing compositions that can function as an antireflective layer for an overcoated photoresist. Compositions of the invention also can serve effectively as a hard mask layer by exhibiting a sufficient plasma etch selectivity from an undercoated layer. Preferred compositions of the invention have a high Si content and comprise a blend of distinct resins. |
| US08373237B2 |
Transistor and method of manufacturing the same
Example embodiments provide a transistor and a method of manufacturing the same. The transistor may include a channel layer formed of an oxide semiconductor and a gate having a three-dimensional structure. A plurality of the transistors may be stacked in a perpendicular direction to a substrate. At least some of the plurality of transistors may be connected to each other. |
| US08373234B2 |
Semiconductor device and method for forming the same
A semiconductor device includes a structure in which a difference in height between a cell region and a peripheral region are formed so that a buried gate structure of the cell region is substantially equal in height to the gate of the peripheral region, whereby a bit line and a storage node contact can be more easily formed in the cell region and parasitic capacitance can be decreased. The semiconductor device includes a cell region including a gate buried in a substrate, and a peripheral region adjacent to the cell region, where a step height between a surface of the cell and a surface of the peripheral region is generated. |
| US08373228B2 |
Semiconductor transistor device structure with back side source/drain contact plugs, and related manufacturing method
A method of fabricating a semiconductor device with back side conductive plugs is provided here. The method begins by forming a gate structure overlying a semiconductor-on-insulator (SOI) substrate. The SOI substrate has a support layer, an insulating layer overlying the support layer, an active semiconductor region overlying the insulating layer, and an isolation region outboard of the active semiconductor region. A first section of the gate structure is formed overlying the isolation region and a second section of the gate structure is formed overlying the active semiconductor region. The method continues by forming source/drain regions in the active semiconductor region, and thereafter removing the support layer from the SOI substrate. Next, the method forms conductive plugs for the gate structure and the source/drain regions, where each of the conductive plugs passes through the insulating layer. |
| US08373227B2 |
Semiconductor device and method having trenches in a drain extension region
A semiconductor device comprises a substrate including a first region and a second region of a first conductivity type and a third region between the first and second regions of a second conductivity type opposite to the first conductivity type, and being covered by a dielectric layer. A plurality of trenches laterally extend between the third and second region, are filled with an insulating material, and are separated by active stripes with a doping profile having a depth not exceeding the depth of the trenches wherein each trench terminates before reaching the dielectric layer and is separated from the third region by a substrate portion such that the respective boundaries between the substrate portions and the trenches are not covered by the dielectric layer. A method for manufacturing such a semiconductor device is also disclosed. |
| US08373226B2 |
Semiconductor device including a Trench-Gate Fin-FET
In Trench-Gate Fin-FET, in order that the advantage which is exerted in Fin-FET can be sufficiently taken even if a transistor becomes finer and, at the same time, decreasing of on-current can be suppressed by saving a sufficiently large contact area in the active region, a fin width 162 of a channel region becomes smaller than a width 161 of an active region. |
| US08373224B2 |
Super-junction trench MOSFET with resurf stepped oxides and trenched contacts
A super-junction trench MOSFET with Resurf Stepped Oxide and trenched contacts is disclosed. The inventive structure can apply additional freedom for better optimization and manufacturing capability by tuning thick oxide thickness to minimize influence of charge imbalance, trapped charges, etc. . . . Furthermore, the fabrication method can be implemented more reliably with lower cost. |
| US08373223B2 |
Semiconductor device and method for fabricating the same
The semiconductor device includes a device isolation structure formed in a semiconductor substrate to define an active region, a bridge type channel structure formed in the active region, and a coaxial type gate electrode surrounding the bridge type channel structure of a gate region. The bridge type channel structure is separated from the semiconductor substrate thereunder by a predetermined distance in a vertical direction. |
| US08373218B2 |
Nitride read-only memory cell and method of manufacturing the same
A nitride read-only memory cell and a method of manufacturing the same are provided. First, a substrate is provided, and a first oxide layer is formed on the substrate. Next, a nitride layer is deposited on the first oxide layer via a first gas and a second gas. The flow ratio of the first gas to the second gas is 2:1. After that, a second oxide layer is formed on the nitride layer. Then, a bit-line region is formed at the substrate. Afterward, a gate is formed on the second oxide layer. The first oxide layer, nitride layer, the second oxide layer and the gate compose a stack structure of the cell. Further, a spacer is formed on the side-wall of the stack structure. |
| US08373216B2 |
Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
Technique of improving a manufacturing yield of a semiconductor device including a non-volatile memory cell in a split-gate structure is provided. A select gate electrode of a CG shunt portion is formed so that a second height d2 from the main surface of the semiconductor substrate of the select gate electrode of the CG shunt portion positioned in the feeding region is lower than a first height d1 of the select gate electrode from the main surface of the semiconductor substrate in a memory cell forming region. |
| US08373215B2 |
Zero temperature coefficient capacitor
A zero temperature coefficient (ZTC) capacitor including a silicon dioxide dielectric layer with a phosphorus density between 1.7×1020 atoms/cm3 and 2.3×1020 atoms/cm3. An integrated circuit containing a ZTC capacitor including a silicon dioxide dielectric layer with a phosphorus density between 1.7×1020 atoms/cm3 and 2.3×1020 atoms/cm3. A process of forming an integrated circuit containing a ZTC capacitor including a silicon dioxide dielectric layer with a phosphorus density between 1.7×1020 atoms/cm3 and 2.3×1020 atoms/cm3. |
| US08373214B2 |
Semiconductor devices with buried bit lines and methods of manufacturing semiconductor devices
A semiconductor device, comprising: a vertical pillar transistor (VPT) formed on a silicon-on-insulator (SOI) substrate, the VPT including a body that has a lower portion and an upper portion, a source/drain node disposed at an upper end portion of the upper portion of the body and a drain/source node disposed at the lower portion of the body; a buried bit line (BBL) formed continuously on sidewalls and an upper surface of the lower portion, the BBL includes metal sificide; and a word line that partially enclosing the upper portion of the body of the VPT, wherein the BBL extends along a first direction and the word line extends in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction. An offset region is disposed immediately beneath the word line. |
| US08373212B2 |
Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same
The semiconductor device has an insulation layer formed over a semiconductor substrate, a conductor plug 46 buried in the insulation layer, a capacitor formed above the insulation layer and the conductor plug and including a lower electrode formed of the first conduction film and the second conduction film formed over the first conduction film and formed of Pt, Pt alloy, Pd or Pd alloy, a capacitor dielectric film formed of a ferroelectric or a high dielectric formed over the lower electrode and an upper electrode formed over the capacitor dielectric film, the capacitor dielectric film contains a first element of Pb or Bi, and the concentration peak of the first element diffused in the lower electrode from the capacitor dielectric film positioning in the interface between the first conduction film and the second conduction film. |
| US08373210B2 |
Semiconductor device and semiconductor device manufacturing method
A semiconductor device includes a pair of electromagnetically coupled inductors. Each of the inductors is comprised of a plurality of through electrodes which extend through a semiconductor substrate, and wires which connect the plurality of through electrodes in series. |
| US08373208B2 |
Lateral super junction device with high substrate-gate breakdown and built-in avalanche clamp diode
A lateral super junction JFET is formed from stacked alternating P type and N type semiconductor layers over a P-epi layer supported on an N+ substrate. An N+ drain column extends down through the super junction structure and the P-epi to connect to the N+ substrate to make the device a bottom drain device. N+ source column and P+ gate column extend through the super junction but stop at the P-epi layer. A gate-drain avalanche clamp diode is formed from the bottom the P+ gate column through the P-epi to the N+ drain substrate. |
| US08373206B2 |
Biosensor apparatuses and methods thereof
A biosensor has one or more field effect transistors each comprising a source region and a drain region separated by a channel region and a gate positioned offset and spaced from the channel region. The biosensor also has one or more molecular probes coupled to at least one of the channel region and the offset gate, the one or more molecular probes configured to mate with at least one target. A method for detection of a target is also disclosed. One or more targets are immobilized as an electric field shunt between an offset gate and a channel region for one or more biosensors. A target measurement value is determined in proportion to a number of the one or more biosensors having the electric field shunt. |
| US08373204B2 |
Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing thereof
A semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the device is disclosed. In one aspect, the device includes a semiconductor substrate and a GaN-type layer stack on top of the semiconductor substrate. The GaN-type layer stack has at least one buffer layer, a first active layer and a second active layer. Active device regions are definable at an interface of the first and second active layer. The semiconductor substrate is present on an insulating layer and is patterned to define trenches according to a predefined pattern, which includes at least one trench underlying the active device region. The trenches extend from the insulating layer into at least one buffer layer of the GaN-type layer stack and are overgrown within the at least one buffer layer, so as to obtain that the first and the second active layer are continuous at least within the active device regions. |
| US08373202B2 |
Integrated circuit chips with fine-line metal and over-passivation metal
An integrated circuit chip includes a silicon substrate, a first circuit in or over said silicon substrate, a second circuit device in or over said silicon substrate, a dielectric structure over said silicon substrate, a first interconnecting structure in said dielectric structure, a first pad connected to said first node of said voltage regulator through said first interconnecting structure, a second interconnecting structure in said dielectric structure, a second pad connected to said first node of said internal circuit through said second interconnecting structure, a passivation layer over said dielectric structure, wherein multiple opening in said passivation layer exposes said first and second pads, and a third interconnecting structure over said passivation layer and over said first and second pads. |
| US08373197B2 |
Circuit device
Provided is a circuit device having a configuration in which thermal interference between built-in elements is suppressed and being miniaturized in total size. A hybrid integrated circuit device of the present invention includes: a circuit substrate, a sealing resin and leads. The circuit substrate in its upper surface is incorporated with a hybrid integrated circuit formed of semiconductor elements and the like respectively fixed to heat spreaders. The sealing resin coats the circuit substrate and thus seals the hybrid integrated circuit. The leads each extend to the outside while being fixed to a pad formed of a conductive pattern. In this hybrid integrated circuit device, the semiconductor elements are mounted on the respective heat spreaders at positions offset from each other, and thereby are arranged to be spaced away from each other. |
| US08373189B2 |
Light emitting diode package
An LED package includes an insulated frame, a first metallic conductor and a second metallic conductor, a chip and an encapsulation. The insulated frame has a receiving groove defined therein. The two metallic conductors are both mounted on bottom of the insulated frame and separated from each other. The chip is placed in the receiving groove and electrically connected to the two metallic conductors. The encapsulation is located in the receiving groove. The first metallic conductor and the second metallic conductor each comprise a mounting portion exposed to the receiving groove and a reflecting portion extending from the mounting portion into the insulated frame. The first reflecting portion and the second reflecting portion cooperatively surround the receiving groove of the insulated frame. |
| US08373188B2 |
Light emitting diode having distributed Bragg reflector
Exemplary embodiments of the present invention provide light-emitting diodes having a distributed Bragg reflector. A light-emitting diode (LED) according to an exemplary embodiment includes a light-emitting structure arranged on a first surface of a substrate, the light-emitting structure including a first conductivity-type semiconductor layer, a second conductivity-type semiconductor layer, and an active layer interposed between the first conductivity-type semiconductor layer and the second conductivity-type semiconductor layer. A first distributed Bragg reflector is arranged on a second surface of the substrate opposite to the first surface, the first distributed Bragg reflector to reflect light emitted from the light-emitting structure. The first distributed Bragg reflector has a reflectivity of at least 90% with respect to light of a first wavelength in a blue wavelength range, light of a second wavelength in a green wavelength range, and light of a third wavelength in a red wavelength range. The first distributed Bragg reflector has a laminate structure having an alternately stacked SiO2 layer and Nb2O5 layer. |
| US08373185B2 |
Light emitting device including resin and manufacturing method for the same
A light emitting device is provided, including a resin which can be manufactured according to a simple process and deliver a desired scattering property. The light emitting device is manufactured according to a step for mixing two or more types of immiscible liquid materials to obtain a composition containing at least two types of materials phase-separated in a sea-island structure, and a step for arranging the composition in proximity to an LED chip, curing the composition with the sea-island structure being maintained, thereby forming an encapsulation resin. Accordingly, it is possible to form an island region which serves as a scattering center, according to a simple step of mixing materials. |
| US08373184B2 |
Vertical nitride based semiconductor light emitting device having improved light extraction efficiency
The invention provides a nitride semiconductor light emitting device. In the invention, a first conductivity-type nitride semiconductor layer is formed on a conductive substrate having light transmissibility. An active layer is formed on the first conductivity-type nitride semiconductor layer. Also, a second conductivity-type nitride semiconductor layer is formed on the active layer. Further, a conductive light scattering layer made of a conductive material is formed on an underside of the substrate. The conductive light scattering layer has light transmissibility of 70% or more and has a rough pattern formed on an outer surface to scatter light. |
| US08373183B2 |
LED package for uniform color emission
A light emitting diode package for one or more light emitting diodes mounted on a substrate. A frame is disposed on at least a portion of the substrate and substantially surrounds, but does not contact, the light emitting diode. The frame is substantially transparent to light emitted from the light emitting diode and includes one or more first wavelength converting materials. The wavelength converting materials, which may be one or more phosphors, convert at least a portion of light emitted at the emission wavelength to different wavelength. A cover covers the light emitting diode within the frame. The cover layer includes one or more second wavelength converting materials differing from the first one or more wavelength converting materials in wavelength converting material concentration or in converted light wavelength or in combinations of wavelength converting materials. |
| US08373180B2 |
Light emitting diode package
A side-view type light emitting diode package for emitting light, emitted from a light emitting diode chip, toward a side surface is disclosed. The side-view type light emitting diode package comprises a package body having an opening portion for exposing the light emitting diode chip in a light emitting direction; and a light-transmittable resin covering the light emitting diode chip, wherein at least a portion of an inner wall of the opening portion is formed with a step projection for partitioning the opening portion into upper and lower sections, and the lower section of the opening portion below the step projection is filled with the light-transmittable resin. Accordingly, the light-transmittable resin with the convex lens shape may be easily formed, so that the light emission efficiency thereof can be improved. |
| US08373176B2 |
Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
A MOSFET representing a semiconductor device capable of achieving decrease in the number of steps in a manufacturing process and improvement in integration by including an electrode that can be in contact with any of a p-type SiC region and an n-type SiC region with contact resistance being sufficiently suppressed includes an n+ SiC substrate, an n− SiC layer formed on the n+ SiC substrate, and a source electrode arranged in contact with the n− SiC layer. The n− SiC layer includes an n+ source region having an n conductivity type. The source electrode includes a source contact electrode arranged in contact with the n+ source region and containing Ti, Al and Si. |
| US08373173B2 |
Method of manufacturing thin film transistor
The object of the present invention is to form a low-concentration impurity region with good accuracy in a top gate type TFT. Phosphorus is added to a semiconductor layer by using a pattern made of a conductive film as a mask to form an N-type impurity region in a self-alignment manner. A positive photoresist is applied to a substrate so as to cover the pattern and then is exposed to light applied to the back of the substrate and then is developed, whereby a photoresist 110 is formed. The pattern is etched by using the photoresist pattern as an etching mask to form a gate electrode. A channel forming region, a source region, a drain region, and low-concentration impurity regions, are formed in the semiconductor layer in a self-alignment manner by using the gate electrode as a doping mask. |
| US08373170B2 |
Display apparatus, manufacturing method thereof, and electronic equipment
A display apparatus is disclosed. The display apparatus includes a transistor formed on a substrate; an interlayer insulator formed on the transistor; a pixel electrode formed on the interlayer insulator; a first partition located above a contact hole which penetrates the interlayer insulator; and a second partition which intersects with the first partition, or which is located on a straight line intersecting with the first partition, and which brings a width value of the pixel electrode to a predetermined value. |
| US08373169B2 |
Thin film transistor of liquid crystal display device with specified channel W/L ratio
A thin film transistor serving as a switching device provided in respective pixels of an active matrix-type liquid crystal display, the thin film transistor including a source electrode overlapping the gate electrode, a first semiconductor layer and contacting one of the two parts of a second impurity semiconductor layer, and a drain electrode overlapping the gate electrode, the first semiconductor layer and contacting another one of the two parts of the second semiconductor layer, wherein the source and drain electrode define a channel region in the first semiconductor layer having a length between the first and second portions of the first semiconductor layer and a width same as a width of at least one of the two parts of the second semiconductor layer such that a ratio of the width to the length (W/L) of the channel region is in a range of 8 through 10. |
| US08373167B2 |
RFID tag having non-volatile memory device having floating-gate FETs with different source-gate and drain-gate border lengths
Non-volatile memory (NVM) devices are disclosed. In one aspect, a NVM device may include a substrate, and a field-effect transistor (FET). The FET may include a first doped region in the substrate and a second doped region in the substrate. The first and the second doped regions may define a channel region of the substrate between them. An insulating layer may overlie the channel region. A floating gate may overlie the insulating layer. Charge of an amount that encodes a value may be stored on the floating gate. The floating gate and the first and the second doped regions may be shaped such that the floating gate defines with the first doped region a first border of a first length, and the floating gate defines with the second doped region a second border of a second length that is less than 90% of the first length. |
| US08373166B2 |
Light-emitting device
According to present invention, system on panel without complicating the process of TFT can be realized, and a light-emitting device that can be formed by lower cost than that of the conventional light-emitting device can be provided. A light-emitting device is provided in which a pixel portion is provided with a pixel including a light-emitting element and a TFT for controlling supply of current to the light-emitting element; a TFT included in a drive circuit and a TFT for controlling supply of current to the light-emitting element include a gate electrode, a gate insulating film formed over the gate electrode, a first semiconductor film, which overlaps with the gate electrode via the gate insulating film, a pair of second semiconductor films formed over the first semiconductor film; the pair of second semiconductor films are doped with an impurity to have one conductivity type; and the first semiconductor film is formed by semiamorphous semiconductor. |
| US08373164B2 |
Semiconductor device and manufacturing method thereof
A structure by which electric-field concentration which might occur between a source electrode and a drain electrode in a bottom-gate thin film transistor is relaxed and deterioration of the switching characteristics is suppressed, and a manufacturing method thereof. A bottom-gate thin film transistor in which an oxide semiconductor layer is provided over a source and drain electrodes is manufactured, and angle θ1 of the side surface of the source electrode which is in contact with the oxide semiconductor layer and angle θ2 of the side surface of the drain electrode which is in contact with the oxide semiconductor layer are each set to be greater than or equal to 20° and less than 90°, so that the distance from the top edge to the bottom edge in the side surface of each electrode is increased. |
| US08373160B2 |
Electrophotographic photoreceptor, process cartridge image forming apparatus, and cured film
An electrophotographic photoreceptor includes a conductive substrate and a photosensitive layer provided on the conductive substrate, and an outermost surface layer of the electrophotographic photoreceptor includes a cured film of a composition containing a charge transporting material having a chain polymerizable functional group and at least one selected from a nitroso compound, a nitrone compound or a nitro compound. |
| US08373155B2 |
Infrared photodetector
An infrared photodetector including a layer structure of an intermediate layer, and a quantum dot layer having a narrower band gap than the intermediate layer and including a plurality of quantum dots alternately stacked, and detecting photocurrent generated when infrared radiation is applied to the layer structure to thereby detect the infrared radiation, the infrared photodetector further including a first barrier layer provided on one side of the quantum dot layer and having a larger band gap than the intermediate layer; and a second barrier layer provided on the other side of the quantum dot layer and having a larger band gap than the intermediate layer. |
| US08373153B2 |
Photodetectors
Implementations of quantum well photodetectors are provided. In one embodiment, a quantum structure includes a first barrier layer, a well layer located on the first barrier layer, and a second barrier layer located on the well layer. A metal layer is located adjacent to the quantum structure. |
| US08373151B2 |
Write-once memory array including phase-change elements and threshold switch isolation
A three-dimensional memory array formed of one or more two-dimensional memory arrays of one-time programmable memory elements arranged in horizontal layers and stacked vertically upon one another; and a two-dimensional memory array of reprogrammable phase change memory elements stacked on the one or more two-dimensional memory arrays as the top layer of the three-dimensional memory array. |
| US08373150B2 |
Memory cell that employs a selectively grown reversible resistance-switching element and methods of forming the same
In some aspects, a memory cell is provided that includes (1) a steering element above a substrate; and (2) a reversible resistance-switching element coupled to the steering element, wherein the reversible resistance-switching element is selectively formed by: (a) forming a material layer on the substrate; (b) etching the material layer; and (c) oxidizing the etched material layer to form a reversible resistance-switching material. Numerous other aspects are provided. |
| US08373147B2 |
Exposure apparatus and device manufacturing method
An information processing apparatus, for processing information of a plurality of measured heights respectively corresponding to a plurality of measurement points on a surface of a substrate held by a chuck, includes a processor and an output device. The processor is configured to specify, with respect to the surface, a plurality of areas that are arrayed and a plurality of sections each constituted by a number of the plurality of areas, extract at least two inclinations of a plurality of inclinations respectively corresponding to the number of the plurality of areas based on the plurality of measured heights with respect to each of the plurality of sections, and cause the output device to output information specifying a section of the plurality of sections that satisfies a first condition that a product of two inclinations among the at least two inclinations exceeds a predetermined threshold. |
| US08373146B2 |
RF accelerator method and apparatus used in conjunction with a charged particle cancer therapy system
The invention comprises a radio-frequency accelerator method and apparatus used in conjunction with multi-axis charged particle radiation therapy of cancerous tumors. An RF synthesizer provides a low voltage RF signal, that is synchronized to the period of circulation of protons in the proton beam path, to a set of integrated microcircuits, loops, and coils where the coils circumferentially enclose the proton beam path in a synchrotron. The integrated components combine to provide an accelerating voltage to the protons in the proton beam path in a size compressed and price reduced format. The integrated RF-amplifier microcircuit/accelerating coil system is operable from about 1 MHz, for a low energy proton beam, to about 15 MHz, for a high energy proton beam. |
| US08373145B2 |
Charged particle cancer therapy system magnet control method and apparatus
The invention comprises a charged particle beam acceleration, extraction, and/or targeting method and apparatus used in conjunction with charged particle beam radiation therapy of cancerous tumors. Novel design features of a synchrotron are described. Particularly, turning magnets, edge focusing magnets, concentrating magnetic field magnets, winding and control coils, and extraction elements are described that minimize the overall size of the synchrotron, provide a tightly controlled proton beam, directly reduce the size of required magnetic fields, directly reduces required operating power, and allow continual acceleration of protons in a synchrotron even during a process of extracting protons from the synchrotron. |
| US08373144B1 |
Quasi-annular reflective electron patterning device
One embodiment relates to an electron-beam apparatus for writing a pattern on a target substrate. The apparatus includes a plurality of arrays of actively-controlled pixel elements at a surface of a reflective electron patterning device. The plurality of arrays of actively-controlled pixel elements are arranged so that there is an area without any actively-controlled pixel elements in a region surrounding an optical axis of the objective lens. The plurality of arrays may be arranged to each lie on a circle centered on the optical axis. Other features, aspects and embodiments are also disclosed. |
| US08373143B2 |
Patient immobilization and repositioning method and apparatus used in conjunction with charged particle cancer therapy
This invention relates generally to treatment of solid cancers. More particularly, the invention relates to a computer controlled patient positioning, immobilization, and repositioning method and apparatus used in conjunction with multi-field charged particle cancer therapy coordinated with patient respiration patterns and further in combination with charged particle beam injection, acceleration, extraction, and/or targeting methods and apparatus. |
| US08373142B2 |
Dosimeter sled
Described is a slidable dosimeter sled for a radiation dosimeter. |
| US08373140B2 |
Fluorometric sensor
Embodiments provide an optical sensor head and method of making an optical sensor head. In some cases the sensor head can be used as a fluorometric sensor to measure concentrations of substances within a liquid sample of interest. The sensor head includes a light source window and a detector window that transmit light between the sensor head and an analytical area. In some cases the windows include a ball lens positioned within a channel such that the ball lens and the channel create a seal between the interior and exterior of the sensor head. |
| US08373137B2 |
High resolution energy-selecting electron beam apparatus
A high resolution energy-selecting electron beam apparatus and method for improving the energy resolution of electron-optical systems by restricting the energy range of admitted electrons, and optionally also for improving the spatial resolution by correcting chromatic and geometric aberrations. The apparatus comprises a plurality of magnetic or electrostatic prisms that disperse an electron beam according to the energies of the electrons into an energy spectrum, a plurality of magnifying lenses such as electromagnetic or electrostatic quadrupoles that increase the energy dispersion of the energy spectrum, an energy-selecting slit that selects a desirable range of energies of the electrons, and optionally also sextupole, octupole and higher-order lenses that correct chromatic and geometric aberration of the electron-optical system. The apparatus also comprises further magnetic or electrostatic prisms and electron lenses arranged such that the energy dispersion of the electron beam emerging from the apparatus is cancelled. |
| US08373135B2 |
Counting detector and computed tomography system
A counting detector is disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the counting detector includes sensors for converting radiation quanta into electrical pulses and an evaluation unit with a number of energy thresholds, wherein the evaluation unit generates for each sensor a count value for each energy threshold from the pulses, which count value represents the number of radiation quanta with an energy above the respective energy threshold. In at least one embodiment, one of the energy thresholds is arranged directly above a characteristic energy of radiation quanta causing double counting in order to correct double counting; and a correction unit calculates a corrected count value from the count values of the energy thresholds, which corrected count value has reduced double counting for at least one of the energy thresholds. Images with an improved contrast-to-noise ratio and, at the same time, a reduced X-ray dose can be generated on the basis of the at least one corrected count value. In at least one embodiment, the invention moreover relates to a computed tomography system with such a counting detector. |
| US08373134B2 |
Electrical isolation of X-ray semiconductor imager pixels
To mitigate the influence of charge sharing occurring in semiconductor detectors, an improved semiconductor detector (200) is provided, which comprises: a plurality of anodes (210) arranged to form at least one opening (230), each opening being formed by two anodes in the plurality of anodes; at least one cathode (220); a detector cell (240) located between the plurality of anodes and the at least one cathode; wherein the detector cell comprises at least one groove (250), each of the at least one groove having a first opening (252) aligned with one of the at least one opening being formed by two anodes in the plurality of anodes, each of the at least one groove extending towards the at least one cathode. By forming grooves in the detector cell, the charge cloud generated by a single photon can be received by a corresponding anode instead of several neighboring anodes, which thereby improves the spectral resolution and count rate of a semiconductor detector. |
| US08373133B2 |
Gadolinium-doped water cerenkov-based neutron and high energy gamma-ray detector and radiation portal monitoring system
A water Cerenkov-based neutron and high energy gamma ray detector and radiation portal monitoring system using water doped with a Gadolinium (Gd)-based compound as the Cerenkov radiator. An optically opaque enclosure is provided surrounding a detection chamber filled with the Cerenkov radiator, and photomultipliers are optically connected to the detect Cerenkov radiation generated by the Cerenkov radiator from incident high energy gamma rays or gamma rays induced by neutron capture on the Gd of incident neutrons from a fission source. The PMT signals are then used to determine time correlations indicative of neutron multiplicity events characteristic of a fission source. |
| US08373132B2 |
Radiation detector with a stack of scintillator elements and photodiode arrays
The invention relates to a radiation detector and a method for producing such a detector, wherein the detector comprises a stack of the scintillator elements and photodiode arrays. The PDAs extend with electrical leads into a rigid body filling a border volume lateral of the scintillator elements, wherein said leads end in a contact surface of the border volume. Moreover, a redistribution layer is disposed on the contact surface, wherein electrical lines of the redistribution layer contact the leads of the PDAs. |
| US08373126B2 |
Apparatus and method for investigating a sample
An apparatus for investigating a sample comprising: a source of beam radiation; a detector for detecting a beam of radiation reflected by the sample and an optical subsystem for manipulating the beam between source and detector wherein the optical subsystem comprises a first optical element arranged in use to angularly deflect the source beam within a given solid angle and a second optical element arranged to focus the beam from the first optical element onto a substantially flat image plane and wherein radiation reflected by the sample passes back through the first and second optical elements to the detector. |
| US08373124B2 |
Infrared detection circuit, sensor device, and electronic instrument
An infrared detection circuit includes a charge transferring transistor, a gate control circuit and a negative potential generating circuit. The charge transferring transistor is disposed between a read node configured to be connected to one end of an infrared detection element and a tank node to transfer an electric charge from the infrared detection element to the tank node. The gate control circuit is connected to a gate of the charge transferring transistor. The negative potential generating circuit is connected to the tank node to set the tank node to a negative electric potential when the charge transferring transistor transfers the electric charge. |
| US08373121B2 |
Magnetic achromatic mass spectrometer with double focusing
An achromatic magnetic mass spectrometer, for example of the SIMS type with double focusing, comprises means for canceling the four aberrations of the second order, and means for canceling the off-axis achromatism and for modulating the dispersion in mass. |
| US08373115B2 |
Method and apparatus for identifying proteins in mixtures
Protein identification in a complex sample begins by selecting a database having proteins likely to be in the sample. In-silico digestion is performed and a target peptide is selected from produced peptides. The masses of the Y- and B-ion fragments of the target peptide are determined. These masses are used to search previously obtained low- and high-energy AMRTs obtained from LC/MS analysis of the complex sample for masses on the list. Any mass observed in the data within a detection threshold are considered a hit. If enough hits accumulate in a given retention time, the target peptide is identified as being in the sample. The list of peptides identified in the complex sample can be used to identify the proteins present in the sample, track the chromatographic retention times of peptides between samples, and quantitate the peptides and proteins present in complex samples. |
| US08373112B2 |
Cold atom interferometry sensor
The disclosure relates to a cold atom interferometry sensor that includes: a source of atoms; a dual-frequency laser capable of generating a first Raman dual-frequency laser beam; a reflector arranged so as to reflect the first Raman dual-frequency laser beam in order to generate a second Raman dual-frequency laser beam, the first laser beam and the second laser beam propagating in different directions in order to obtain atomic interference fringes from the emission of cold atoms obtained from the atom source; characterized in that the reflector is further arranged so as to enable multiple reflections of the first beam on surfaces of the reflector, so that the first beam and the multiple reflections thereof allow the capture of atoms from the atom source in order to obtain the cold atoms. |
| US08373111B2 |
Partition type optical sensing device
An optical sensing device includes a shell, a partition structure, a pivot, a shading member, at least one light emitting member and at least one optical sensing member. The shell is formed with a black-body condition space having an arrangement chamber and a shading chamber adjacent to and communicated with the arrangement chamber. The partition structure partitions the arrangement chamber into a light emitting chamber and at least one optical sensing chamber. The pivot is set in the shading chamber. The shading member is located in the shading chamber and pivotally connected to the pivot. When the optical sensing device is tilted, the shading member is rotated in accordance with a tilting azimuth. The light emitting member is located in the light emitting chamber and projects a light beam. The optical sensing member is located in the optical sensing chamber and senses the light beam. |
| US08373109B2 |
Teat detection device and method therewith in a milking device
The invention provides a detection device for determining position information from an object to the detection device, wherein the position information includes at least a distance from that object to the detection device. The detection device includes: a light source arranged to emit light; a control device arranged to control the light source; a light measuring device comprising a 2D classification of light sensitive elements and arranged to measure reflected light and to generate a corresponding measuring signal; a signal processing device arranged to process the measuring signal to position information, including distance information, of the object with respect to the detection device, wherein the signal processing device includes an object recognition device is configured to recognize at least one of: an udder, a teat, a and respective parts thereof, and wherein at least one of the light measuring device has an absolute sensitivity maximum with a wavelength between 400 and 570 nm, and the light source has an absolute emission maximum with a wavelength between 400 and 570 nm. |
| US08373107B2 |
Method and apparatus for non-line-of-sight imaging of a first area using photons detected from a second area
A system for imaging information comprising a spatial receiver, a chaotic photon light source comprising a first beam directed at a first predetermined area containing an object, and a second beam received by the spatial receiver and measured at specific intervals in time; the spatial receiver transmitting spatial information correlated to specific intervals of time to a processor; and a first receiver detecting the influence of the object on the first light beam; the first receiver not being in the line of sight with the first predetermined area and adapted to detect light from a second predetermined area spaced from the first predetermined area, the at least one processor operating to correlate the outputs of the first receiver with spatial information derived from the spatial receiver at correlating intervals of time to create an image of the object and a method for practicing the invention. |
| US08373103B2 |
Magnetic air heating and impelling apparatus
An apparatus for heating and impelling air comprises a housing, an air heating impeller assembly, and a magnetic assembly. The impeller assembly may impel air through the housing and heat the air, and may include a support shaft, a plurality of annular disks positioned along the support shaft and each having a central aperture through which the support shaft extends. The impeller assembly includes paddles radiating outwardly from the shaft, and each of the paddles is positioned between the shaft and the disks to space at least one disk from the support shaft to form an air path therebetween. The paddles space the disks in an axial direction to form gaps therebetween to form an air path between the disks. The magnetic assembly applies a magnetic field of adjustable intensity to the disks to cause heating of the disks. |
| US08373102B2 |
Induction cooker
An induction cooker includes a top plate (1) for placing an object to be heated thereon, a heating mode selection key (8) for allowing the user to select one control mode for heating the object to be heated between a manual heating mode in which the heat output is set by the user by using an output adjusting key (9) and at least another control mode in which the heat output is controlled automatically, and a heating off/on key (7) for starting to heat the object to be heated. In the standby mode, the controller starts heating only when the user operates the heating mode selection key (8) to change the mode to the cooking menu selection mode before operating the heating off/on key (7). When a predetermined time has elapsed in the cooking menu selection mode without a change in a selected control mode, the mode is changed to the standby mode. This prevents heating from occurring when the user inadvertently presses the heating off/on key (7) while the heating is not going on, thus providing the induction cooker with a high degree of safety and increased user-friendliness. |
| US08373101B2 |
Induction heating device with orthogonal coils
There are provided a first excitation coil that is wound so as to have an axis in the same direction as that of a shaft of a heating roller and that is connected to a first power source, and a second excitation coil that is wound so as to have an axis in a direction substantially orthogonal to the shaft of the heating roller and that is connected to a second power source. The second excitation coil has parallel portions that extend in parallel to an axial direction of the first excitation coil and two folded sections provided at respective ends of the parallel portions. The two folded sections are provided along a circumference of the first excitation coil in such a way that circular arcs of the respective folded sections become opposite in direction to each other. Thus, the maximum available power is increased. When rapid warm-up is required, heating is caused by a coil connected to the auxiliary power source, to thus shorten a warm-up time. Occurrence of a temperature drop at the ends of the heating roller is prevented, to thus enhance energy efficiency. In ordinary situations other than the rapid warm-up operation, recharging can be performed by use of the coil. |
| US08373098B2 |
Oven appliance cleaning system using heat and steam cycle
A system for cleaning the interior surface of an oven appliance using heat and steam cycles is provided. More particularly, the present invention uses a heat cycle to break down water insoluble food residues into soluble materials that are then cleaned by a steam cycle. Following the steam cycle, the remaining food residues can be removed from the interior surface of the oven appliance. |
| US08373097B2 |
Apparatus for thermally processing substrate
An apparatus for thermally processing a plurality of substrates including a process chamber into which a boat having a plurality of substrates stacked thereon is loaded, and a heater chamber separate from the process chamber and having a plurality of heaters to apply heat to the process chamber. Here, the heaters are installed to correspond to all sides of the plurality of substrates. Therefore, it is possible to minimize a temperature distribution in the process chamber and uniformly supply heat to the entire region of the plurality of substrates. |
| US08373095B2 |
Power line de-icing apparatus
A power line de-icing apparatus which is installed onto a power line without the need for disconnecting the power line. A temperature sensor and an ice sensor on the apparatus automatically activate the de-icing mode of operation. An internal motor and drive wheel move the apparatus along the power line in both directions, one direction at a time. Heaters and chisels on the apparatus remove any ice on the power line in one direction at a time. Power for the apparatus is generated from the electrical power carried by the power line using transformers. Proximity sensors on the apparatus detect stopping devices placed on the power line to stop the motion of the apparatus. |
| US08373094B2 |
Self-adjusting liner assembly for a consumable electrode arc-welding torch
A self-adjusting liner assembly for a welding torch includes an elongated tubular main body having forward and rearward ends. An elongated tubular retainer including a shoulder is mountable in the main body. An elongated tubular piston including a shoulder cooperates with the retainer in a telescoping relationship in the main body. A resilient member is disposed in the main body and envelops a portion of the retainer and the piston. The resilient member urges the shoulders away from each other and the tubular piston toward the forward end of the main body. |
| US08373090B2 |
Method and apparatus to prevent stent damage caused by laser cutting
Apparatus, method and system for cutting a polymeric stent including the use of a polymeric mandrel as a laser shielding device. The polymeric mandrel is allowed to roll freely within a polymeric tube that is cut into a polymeric stent. |
| US08373089B2 |
Combustion cap effusion plate laser weld repair
A process for modifying or repairing a metallic component, such as a combustion cap effusion plate for a gas turbine, is disclosed. The method includes generating a notch or groove in the metallic component and depositing a filler material in the notch or groove. A pulsed laser is applied to the filler material. The pulsed laser has a power, frequency, and pulse width sufficient to apply heat to the metallic component and to the filler material to make at least a portion of the metallic component and the filler material melt in order to weld the filler material to the metallic component and repair or modify the metallic component. Various operating parameters of the pulsed laser can be configured to reduce undesirable heating affects. |
| US08373087B2 |
Plasma torch for use in a waste processing chamber
The invention is a plasma torch for insertion through an opening in the wall of a waste processing chamber. The plasma torch of the invention is characterized by comprising a coaxial sleeve having an upper end and a lower end. The sleeve surrounds at least the portion of the outer surface of the torch that is located in the opening, thereby forming an insulating chamber between the outer surface if the torch and the inner surface of the sleeve. At least a portion of the portion of the coaxial sleeve that surrounds at least the portion of the outer surface of the torch that is located in the opening in the wall of the processing chamber is porous or permeable to a heat exchanging fluid. The torch comprises an inlet for introducing the heat exchanging fluid into the insulating chamber. When the plasma torch is inserted through the opening, a gap exists between the processing chamber wall and the coaxial sleeve. Thus the coaxial sleeve and the insulating chamber shield the outer surface of the plasma torch from a significant amount of the heat that radiates from the processing chamber wall and from inside the processing chamber and the heat exchanging fluid that flows through the inlet exits the insulating chamber into the processing chamber. |
| US08373086B2 |
Plasma processing apparatus and method for plasma processing
Provided are a plasma processing apparatus and method. The plasma processing apparatus includes a chamber, an upper electrode, a lower electrode, a substrate support, and a movement member. The upper electrode is disposed at an inner upper portion of the chamber. The lower electrode faces the upper electrode at an inner lower portion of the chamber to support a substrate such that a bevel of the substrate is exposed in a substrate level etching process. The substrate support is disposed between the upper electrode and the lower electrode to support the substrate such that a central region of a bottom surface of the substrate is exposed in a substrate backside etching process. The movement member is configured to move the substrate support to separate the substrate from the substrate support in the substrate backside etching process. |
| US08373084B2 |
Plasma cutter having high power density
Systems and methods are provided for a torch power system having a high power density. In one embodiment, a system is provided that includes a torch power unit having a compressor and power electronics that include one or more power converters, wherein the torch power unit has a power output density of at least 2 watts per cubic inch, 80 watts per pound, or a combination thereof. A power conversion assembly for a torch power unit is provided that includes a single circuit board, a torch power converter mounted on the single circuit board, and a non-torch power converter mounted on the single circuit board. An electrical torch system is also provided that includes a circuit board and a power converter coupled to the circuit board, wherein the power converter includes a planar transformer, a foil wound transformer, or a combination thereof. |
| US08373082B2 |
Vacuum insulated switchgear
A vacuum insulated switchgear comprising a vacuum container accommodating at least a pair of movable contacts and a pair of fixed contacts, wherein the movable contacts are capable of taking three positions, the switchgear being a double-break three-position type switch having breaking and disconnecting functions. |
| US08373081B2 |
Inspection system
An inspection system is configured for use with a conveyer apparatus including carrier bars. Each carrier bar conveys pellet-shaped articles along a predetermined path. The inspection system includes at least one camera unit for sensing a predetermined characteristic of the pellet-shaped articles, a removal unit, and a controller. The removal unit, downstream from the at least one camera unit, removes selected pellet-shaped article(s) from the carrier bar(s) depending on whether the characteristic is sensed by the at least one camera unit. The controller is in communication with the at least one camera unit and the removal unit. The controller provides a signal to the removal unit in accordance with the sensed characteristic. The removal unit includes a rotatable ejection drum having extended vacuum nozzles along its length, equal to the number of articles conveyed in each carrier bar. Each vacuum nozzle selectively removes article(s) from the carrier bar(s) by suction. |
| US08373077B2 |
Electronic device enclosure
An electronic device enclosure includes a side panel defining a number of vents. Each vent is sandwiched by two adjacent partition members for preventing moisture penetrating the enclosure. Each of the partition members includes a plate, a first block perpendicularly extending from a first end of the plate, and a second block perpendicularly extending from a second end of the plate opposite to the first end. The first and second blocks extend in opposite directions. |
| US08373076B2 |
Shielding assembly
A shielding assembly includes a frame including a catch protruding near one end thereof; and a cover including a main body. The main body is punched to form an opening and a latching portion protruding from the main body and aligned with the opening; the latching portion latches with the catch, the latching portion shields the opening to improve the shielding affect of the shielding assembly. |
| US08373071B2 |
Embedded wiring board and method for manufacturing the same
A method for manufacturing an embedded wiring board is provided. An activating insulation layer is formed, in which the activating insulation layer includes a plurality of catalyst particles, and covers a first wiring layer. An intaglio pattern and at least one blind via partially exposing the first wiring layer are formed on the activating insulation layer, in which some of the catalyst particles are activated and exposed in the intaglio pattern and the blind via. The activating insulation layer is dipped in a first chemical plating solution, and a solid conductive pillar is formed in the blind via through electroless plating. The activating insulation layer is dipped in a second chemical plating solution after the solid conductive pillar is formed, and a second wiring layer is formed in the intaglio pattern through the electroless plating. Components of the first chemical plating solution and the second chemical plating solution are different. |
| US08373067B2 |
Electrical connector
An electrical connector comprising a connector body having first and second connection portions and two or more electrical pathways provided within the connector body between the first and second connection portions, the first connection portion having a functional surface on which at least two exposed areas of conductive material are provided, each of which is in contact with a corresponding electrical pathway, for connection to an electrical element on a substrate, wherein adhesive is provided on the functional surface such that, at a minimum, a peripheral band is formed around each of the areas of conductive material for adhesion to the substrate. Also a glazing comprising at least one pane of glazing material provided with an electrical element, and an electrical connector as described above electrically connected to the electrical element and adhered to a surface of the glazing. |
| US08373065B2 |
Lightning protection system and method
An omnidirectional, external, lightning protection system which serves to minimize damage from lightning current and lightning electromagnetic impulse (LEMP). Embodiments of the present invention disclose a variety of individual structural components which may be rapidly assembled to form an air termination system, down conductor system, and earth termination system, according to established standards of lightning protection. The apparatus may be erected to protect a structure, area, or equipment and dismantled to its components parts when no longer required. The assembled structure may serve as a temporary or permanent protective structure. |
| US08373064B2 |
Nano polycrystalline bio thin film photovoltaic cell and preparation method thereof
This invention relates to a photovoltaic cell and its preparation method. The nano polycrystalline bio thin film photovoltaic cell as provided by the present invention is of layered structure, and the structure from top to bottom is: a top plate insulated and sealed layer, a conductive layer, a nano semiconductor layer, chromophoric molecular layer, an electrolyte polymer layer, a conductive catalyst layer, a conductive layer, a bottom plate insulated and sealed layer. The nano semiconductor layer is made of three metal oxide or metal sulfide, and the electrolyte polymer layer is made of CeCl3, gas SiO2 and LiI. The present invention also provides the preparation method of the nano polycrystalline bio thin film photovoltaic cell. The nano polycrystalline bio thin film photovoltaic cell mentioned in the present invention has higher photovoltaic conversion efficiency, lower cost, and can be applied in construction, family, community, factories and mines and electric net power supply. |
| US08373063B2 |
Quantum dot solar cell
A solar cell is disclosed that includes an electron conductor layer and a quantum dot layer. The quantum dot layer may include a plurality of quantum dots. A bridge layer may be coupled to the electron conductor layer and to the quantum dot layer. The bridge layer may include an antibiotic, a sulfur-containing amino acid, a vitamin, and/or a vitamin analogue. In some cases, a hole conductor layer may be coupled to the quantum dot layer. |
| US08373062B2 |
Solar cell, and method for producing the solar cell
A solar cell is provided as one capable of increasing the open voltage when compared with the conventional solar cells. A solar cell according to the present invention has a p-type semiconductor layer containing a group Ib element, a group IIIb element, and a group VIb element, and an n-type semiconductor layer containing a group Ib element, a group IIIb element, a group VIb element, and Zn and formed on the p-type semiconductor layer. A content of the group Ib element in the n-type semiconductor layer is from 15 to 21 at. % to the total number of atoms of the group Ib element, the group IIIb element, the group VIb element, and Zn in the n-type semiconductor layer, and a content of Zn in the n-type semiconductor layer is from 0.005 to 1.0 at. % to the total number of atoms of the group Ib element, the group IIIb element, the group VIb element, and Zn in the n-type semiconductor layer. |
| US08373061B2 |
Photovoltaic cells with stacked light-absorption layers and methods of fabricating the same
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to photovoltaic cells configured with two or more nanowire-based, light-absorption layers, each layer capable of absorbing a different portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. In one embodiment, a photovoltaic cell comprises a substrate configured with a first planar surface, a second planar surface opposite the first planar surface, and an opening. The photovoltaic cell includes a first photovoltaic cell disposed on the first planar surface and having a first set of nanowires extending over the opening. The photovoltaic cell includes a second photovoltaic cell disposed on the second planar surface and having a second set of nanowires extending over the opening opposite the first set of nanowires. |
| US08373058B2 |
Solar cell and method of adjusting color of the same
The present invention provides a solar cell whose external color can be adjusted so that redness is suppressed. In the case where a photoelectric conversion layer contains amorphous silicon, an optical absorption layer is provided between the photoelectric conversion layer and a reflecting electrode layer. The optical absorption layer has a light absorbing property mainly in a long wavelength range, while the photoelectric conversion layer (amorphous silicon) has a selective light absorbing property mainly in a short/medium wavelength range. Incident light (solar light) passed through the photoelectric conversion layer further passes through the optical absorption layer and, after that, is reflected by the reflecting electrode layer. That is, remaining light of the incident light absorbed by the optical absorption layer and the photoelectric conversion layer is reflected by the reflecting electrode layer. Consequently, redness of the reflection light can be suppressed more than in the case where the optical absorption layer is not provided between the photoelectric conversion layer and the reflecting electrode layer. |
| US08373053B2 |
Polyphonic tuner
The present invention relates to a musical instrument tuner, e.g. a guitar tuner, featuring different levels of detail for displaying monophonic and polyphonic characteristics of an input signal. |
| US08373051B2 |
System for adding a string to a stringed instrument
The invention relates to a system for adding a string to a stringed instrument, consisting of an additional string and an additional tuning machine which can be clamped onto the head of the stringed instrument using a clamping member. The system moreover preferably comprises a hooking member to which the string can be hooked, and fixing means for fixing the hooking member to the stringed instrument. |
| US08373049B1 |
Maize variety hybrid X8N319
A novel maize variety designated X8N319 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X8N319 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X8N319 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X8N319, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X8N319. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X8N319. |
| US08373044B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH997743
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH997743. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH997743, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH997743 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH997743. |
| US08373043B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH972645
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH972645. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH972645, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH972645 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH972645. |
| US08373041B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH105845
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH105845. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH105845, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH105845 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH105845. |
| US08373037B2 |
Plants and seeds of corn variety CV363541
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV363541. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV363541, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV363541 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV363541 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV363541. |
| US08373034B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH713848
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH713848. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH713848, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH713848 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH713848. |
| US08373033B1 |
Soybean cultivar 05274456
A soybean cultivar designated 05274456 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar 05274456, to the plants of soybean cultivar 05274456, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar 05274456, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar 05274456. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 05274456. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 05274456, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar 05274456 with another soybean cultivar. |
| US08373032B1 |
Soybean cultivar 03284882
A soybean cultivar designated 03284882 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar 03284882, to the plants of soybean cultivar 03284882, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar 03284882, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar 03284882. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 03284882. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 03284882, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar 03284882 with another soybean cultivar. |
| US08373031B2 |
Cucumber hybrid enki
A hybrid cucumber designated Enki is disclosed having resistance to powdery mildew (Sphaerotheca fuliginea), cucumber mosaic virus, and cucumber vein yellowing virus. The invention relates to the seeds of hybrid cucumber Enki, to the plants of hybrid cucumber Enki, and to methods for producing a cucumber plant, either inbred or hybrid, by crossing the hybrid Enki with itself or another cucumber plant. The invention further relates to methods for producing a cucumber plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic plants produced by that method and to methods for producing other cucumber lines, cultivars, or hybrids derived from the hybrid cucumber Enki. |
| US08373029B2 |
Lettuce line RX06473469
The invention provides seed and plants of the lettuce line designated RX06473469. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of lettuce line RX06473469, and to methods for producing a lettuce plant produced by crossing a plant of lettuce line RX06473469 with itself or with another lettuce plant, such as a plant of another line. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of a plant of lettuce line RX06473469, including the gametes of such plants. |
| US08373026B2 |
Lettuce line RX17275496
The invention provides seed and plants of the lettuce line designated RX17275496. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of lettuce line RX17275496, and to methods for producing a lettuce plant produced by crossing a plant of lettuce line RX17275496 with itself or with another lettuce plant, such as a plant of another line. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of a plant of lettuce line RX17275496, including the gametes of such plants. |
| US08373024B2 |
Method for producing unsaturated ω-3-fatty acids in transgenic organisms
The present invention relates to nucleic acid sequences coding for polypeptides with ω-3-desaturase activity. The invention furthermore relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors and organisms comprising at least one nucleic acid sequence according to the invention, at least one vector comprising the nucleic acid sequence and/or the nucleic acid constructs, and transgenic organisms comprise the abovementioned nucleic acid sequences, nucleic acid constructs and/or vectors. |
| US08373021B2 |
Improving disease resistance in plants by introducing transcription factor gene
The present inventors analyzed genes involved in plant disease resistance. As a result, they discovered the transcription factor gene OsWRKY45, which is induced in leaf blades of rice plants by activating the systemic acquired resistance (SAR) that plants inherently have, i.e., by treating rice plants with benzothiadiazole (hereafter may be abbreviated as BTH), which is an agent thought to induce disease resistance in plants. It was further discovered that rice blast disease resistance and rice bacterial leaf blight resistance were markedly improved by reintroducing the gene into rice plants and constitutively expressing it. |
| US08373019B1 |
Maize variety hybrid X18A650
A novel maize variety designated X18A650 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X18A650 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X18A650 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X18A650, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X18A650. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X18A650. |
| US08373016B2 |
Absorbent member and method of producing the same
An absorbent member (10) of the invention has a hydrophilic continuous fiber web (12) and lumpy particles of an absorbent polymer (13) held in the web (12). The absorbent polymer (13) is localized in part in a planar or thickness direction of the absorbent member (10). The continuous fibers in a region (M) in a planar direction of the web (12) where the absorbent polymer is distributed are in a state cut into a large number of staple fibers (122). A method of producing an absorbent member includes the step of spreading lumpy particles of an absorbent polymer (13) on a continuous fiber web (12) and pressing the continuous fibers in part of the web (12) onto the absorbent polymer (13) to cut the continuous fibers. |
| US08373015B2 |
Production of saturated C2 to C5 hydrocarbons
Catalytic methods for the production of saturated hydrocarbons with 2 to 5 carbon atoms per molecule by conversion of small hydrocarbon halides and/or hydrogenation of carbonaceous material are disclosed that result in high yield of saturated C2 to C5 hydrocarbons at reduced corrosion of the reactors and in good lifetime of the catalyst. The methods are performed in the presence of a Lewis acid comprising catalyst and in the absence of oxygen or oxygen containing compounds, whereby an upper limit of at most 50 parts per million mass of oxygen or oxygen containing compounds can be tolerated. |
| US08373014B2 |
Solid catalyst hydrocarbon alkylation using stacked moving bed radial flow reactors
Systems and processes for the alkylation of a hydrocarbon are provided that utilize a plurality of moving bed radial flow reactors. An olefin injection point can be provided prior to each reactor by providing a mixer that mixes olefin with a hydrocarbon feed, or with the effluent stream from an upstream reactor, to produce a reactor feed stream. Catalyst can be provided from the reaction zone of one reactor to the reaction zone of a downstream reactor through catalyst transfer pipes, and can be regenerated after passing through the reaction zones of the reactors. The moving bed radial flow reactors can be stacked in one or more reactor stacks. |
| US08373008B2 |
Recovery of butanol from a mixture of butanol, water, and an organic extractant
A process for recovering butanol from a mixture comprising a water-immiscible organic extractant, water, butanol, and optionally a non-condensable gas, is provided. The butanol is selected from 1-butanol, 2-butanol, isobutanol, and mixtures thereof. An overhead stream from a first distillation column is condensed to recover a mixed condensate. An entrainer is added to at least one appropriate process stream or vessel such that the mixed condensate comprises sufficient entrainer to provide phase separation of the organic and the aqueous phases to provide for recovery of the butanol. |
| US08373007B2 |
Stable vinamidinium salt and nitrogen-containing heterocyclic ring synthesis using the same
Disclosed is a vinamidinium salt represented by the formula (I): [wherein R1 represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, an optionally substituted hydrocarbon group or the like; R2 and R3 are the same or different and each represents a lower alkyl group, or alternatively R2 and R3 may combine together to form a ring; R4 and R5 are the same or different and each represents a lower alkyl group, or alternatively R4 and R5 may combine together to form a ring; X and Y are the same or different and each represents a bromine atom or a chlorine atom; n represents a number of not less than 2; and m represents 0 or n], and methods for synthesizing a heterocyclic ring compound using the salt. |
| US08373005B2 |
Process for the synthesis of ethers of aromatic acids
Ethers of aromatic acids are produced from halogenated aromatic acids in a reaction mixture containing a copper (I) or copper (II) source and a diamine ligand that coordinates to copper. |
| US08372999B2 |
Organically modified silica and use thereof
Disclosed and claimed is a novel protective coating for metal surfaces. The protective coating includes one part by weight of the organosilane-modified silica nanoparticles made by the disclosed process and further includes from 0.3 to 3 parts by weight of the reaction product of (1) a compound comprising a polyamine in which a plurality of amine groups are bonded to at least one radical selected from the group consisting of hydrocarbon and hydrocarbon ether groups that separate nitrogen atoms of said amine groups by at least four intermediate atoms in a chain, and (2) a silane which carries a plurality of silicon-bonded hydrolyzable groups and a silicon-bonded organic group that is covalently reactive to and which bonds with said amine group, said silane also comprising hydrolyzable groups, to provide a reaction product molecule which comprises an average of 2.5 to 3.5 silane groups per molecule. |
| US08372992B2 |
Strontium (M) ascorbate, compositions containing same, method for making same and method of using same
A compound of formula (ascorbate)2Sr:(M+a)x(ascorbate)y, or ascorbate)2Sr:Ca(ascorbate)2, a composition containing the same, a method of making the same and a method of administering the same as a supplement. |
| US08372991B2 |
Trisubstituted thiophenes that modulate intracellular calcium
Described herein are compounds of Formula (I): wherein A, J, Z, X, R1 and R4 are defined herein, and pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds, which modulate the activity of store-operated calcium (SOC) channels. Also described herein are methods of using such SOC channel modulators, alone and in combination with other compounds, for treating diseases or conditions that would benefit from inhibition of SOC channel activity. |
| US08372989B2 |
Polypeptides and biosynthetic pathways for the production of monatin and its precursors
Methods and compositions that can be used to make monatin from glucose, tryptophan, indole-3-lactic acid, indole-3-pyruvate, and 2-hydroxy 2-(indol-3-ylmethyl)-4-keto glutaric acid, are provided. Methods are also disclosed for producing the indole-3-pyruvate and 2-hydroxy 2-(indol-3-ylmethyl)-4-keto glutaric acid intermediates. Compositions provided include nucleic acid molecules, polypeptides, chemical structures, and cells. Methods include in vitro and in vivo processes, and the in vitro methods include chemical reactions. |
| US08372987B2 |
2-{(R)-2-methylpyrrolidin-2-yl)-1H-benzimidazole-4-carboxamide crystalline form 1
2-((R)-2-Methylpyrrolidin-2-yl)-1H-benzimidazole-4-carboxamide Crystalline Form 1, ways to make it, compositions comprising it and made using it, and methods of treating patients having disease using it are disclosed. |
| US08372986B2 |
Ruthenium-catalyzed cycloaddition of alkynes and organic azides
A convenient process for the regioselective synthesis of 1,5-disubstituted 1,2,3-triazoles and 1,4,5-trisubstituted 1,2,3-triazoles from organic azides and alkynes employs catalytic ruthenium. |
| US08372982B2 |
Fungicidal N-(Phenylcycloalkyl)carboxamide, N-(Benzylcycloalkyl)carboxamide and thiocarboxamide derivatives
The present invention relates to a N-(Phenylcycloalkyl)carboxamide or N-(Benzylcycloalkyl)carboxamide or its thiocarboxamide derivative of formula (I) wherein A represents a carbo-linked, unsaturated or partially saturated, substituted or non-substituted 5-membered heterocyclyl group, T represents an oxygen or a sulphur atom, B represents a non aromatic carbocycle that can be substituted by one to four C1-C8-alkyl groups, and X, Z1, Z2 and Z3 represent various substituents; their process of preparation; the preparation of intermediate compounds; their use as fungicide active agents, particularly in the form of fungicide compositions and methods for the control of phytopathogenic fungi, notably of plants, using these compounds or compositions. |
| US08372981B2 |
Nitrogen-containing aromatic derivatives
Compounds represented by the following general formula: wherein Ag is an optionally substituted 5- to 14-membered heterocyclic group, etc.; Xg is —O—, —S—, etc.; Yg is an optionally substituted C6-14 aryl group, an optionally substituted 5- to 14-membered heterocyclic group, etc.; and Tg1 is a group represented by the following general formula: (wherein Eg is a single bond or —N(Rg2)—), Rg1 and Rg2 each independently represent a hydrogen atom, an optionally substituted C1-6 alkyl group, etc. and Zg represents a C1-8 alkyl group, a C3-8 alicyclic hydrocarbon group, a C6-14 aryl group, etc.), salts thereof or hydrates of the foregoing. |
| US08372977B2 |
Luminescent gold(III) compounds containing bidentate ligand for organic light-emitting devices and their preparation
Embodiments of the invention are directed to luminescent gold(III) compounds contains a bidentate ligand with at least one strong σ-donating group, a method of preparation of these compounds and the use of these compounds in organic light emitting devices. The gold(III) compounds have the chemical structure: wherein: X is a nitrogen atom; Y is selected from a carbon or a nitrogen atom; A-B is a substituted or unsubstituted cyclometalating ligand (for Y═C) or diimine ligand (for Y═N); where A and B are cyclic structure derivatives; R1 and R2 are optionally substituted carbon donor ligands attached to the gold atom, with the proviso that R1 and R2 are not —CH3, —CH2SiMe3, mesityl, pentafluorophenyl, —CH2C(O)R′, —CH(R)SO2CH(R)—, —C6H4N═NC6H5, and wherein R1 and R2 can optionally be combined into a bidentate ligand; and n is greater or equal to zero. |
| US08372973B2 |
Prokineticin 1 receptor antagonists
The present invention relates to certain novel compounds of Formula (I): and methods for preparing these compounds, compositions, intermediates and derivatives thereof and for the treatment of prokineticin 1 or prokinetin 1 receptor mediated disorders. |
| US08372971B2 |
Heterocyclic compounds and methods of use
Heterocyclic compounds derived from benzotriazine, triazines, triazoles and oxadiazoles are disclosed. The methods of synthesis and of use of such heterocyclic compounds are also provided. |
| US08372970B2 |
8-ethyl-6-(aryl)pyrido[2,3-D]pyrimidin-7(8H)-ones for the treatment of CNS disorders
Provided herein are PAK inhibitors and methods of utilizing PAK inhibitors for the treatment of CNS disorders such as neuropsychiatric disorders. |
| US08372969B2 |
RNA interference methods using DNA-RNA duplex constructs
The present invention provides novel compositions and methods for suppressing the function or activity of a targeted gene through a novel intracellular piRNA-mediated RNAi mechanism, using RNA-DNA duplex constructs. The invention further provides novel methods and compositions for generating or producing RNA-DNA duplex agents, whose quantity is high enough to be used for the invention's gene silencing transfection and possibly in therapeutics applications. This improved RNA-polymerase chain reaction (RNA-PCR) method utilizes thermocycling steps of promoter-linked DNA or RNA template synthesis, in vitro transcription and then reverse transcription to bring up the amount of RNA-DNA duplexes up to two thousand folds within one round of the above procedure for using in D-RNAi-directed gene silencing. |
| US08372968B2 |
RNA interference mediating small RNA molecules
Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) induces sequence-specific post-transcriptional gene silencing in many organisms by a process known as RNA interference (RNAi). Using a Drosophila in vitro system, we demonstrate that 19-23 nt short RNA fragments are the sequence-specific mediators of RNAi. The short interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are generated by an RNase III-like processing reaction from long dsRNA. Chemically synthesized siRNA duplexes with overhanging 3′ ends mediate efficient target RNA cleavage in the lysate, and the cleavage site is located near the center of the region spanned by the guiding siRNA. Furthermore, we provide evidence that the direction of dsRNA processing determines whether sense or antisense target RNA can be cleaved by the produced siRNP complex. |
| US08372965B2 |
Nucleotide sequences for the detection of enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC)
Nucleic sequences of plasmid origin are isolated from bacteria of the enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli group (EHEC) and used for the identification of EHEC(s), especially those possessing the genes encoding the virulence factors enterohaemolysin and intimin, and more particularly the specific detection of serotype O157:H7, and in detection kits. |
| US08372964B2 |
Highly infectious nucleic acid molecules from pepper mottle virus and plant viral vector derived from the same
The present invention relates to a plant-infectious nucleic acid molecule from Pepper mottle virus, and a viral vector, a transformed cell and a transgenic plant having it. The present invention first achieves the cloning of the infectious full-length pepper mottle virus cDNA from virus-infected pepper, which enables to perform the molecular biological studies to the infectivity of pepper mottle virus in pepper and tobacco and to provide a plant virus-based vector to highly express a useful foreign protein. |
| US08372962B2 |
Compositions and methods to control angiogenesis with cupredoxins
The present invention relates to compositions comprising cupredoxins, and their use to inhibit angiogenesis in mammalian cells, tissues, and animals, and particularly the angiogenesis that accompanies tumor development and particularly in humans. Specifically, the present invention relates to compositions comprising the cupredoxin(s), and or peptides that are variants, derivatives or structural equivalents of cupredoxins, which retain the ability to inhibit angiogenesis in mammalian cells, tissues or animals. These compositions may be peptides or pharmaceutical compositions, among others. The compositions of the invention may be used to treat any pathological condition that has as a symptom or cause, inappropriate angiogenesis, and particularly inappropriate angiogenesis related to tumor development. |
| US08372961B2 |
Polynucleotides encoding concatameric immunoadhesion molecules
Disclosed are concatameric proteins comprising two soluble domains, in which the C-terminus of a soluble domain of a biologically active protein is linked to the N-terminus of an identical soluble domain or a distinct soluble domain of a biologically active protein. Also, the present invention discloses dimeric proteins formed by formation of intermolecular disulfide bonds at the hinge region of two monomeric proteins formed by linkage of a concatamer of two identical soluble extracellular regions of proteins involving immune response to an Fc fragment of an immunoglobulin molecule, their glycosylated proteins, DNA constructs encoding the monomeric proteins, recombinant expression plasmids containing the DNA construct, host cells transformed or transfected with the recombinant expression plasmids, and a method of preparing the dimeric proteins by culturing the host cells. Further, the present invention discloses pharmaceutical or diagnostic compositions comprising the dimeric protein or its glycosylated form. |
| US08372958B2 |
Opsonic and protective monoclonal and chimeric antibodies specific for lipoteichoic acid of gram posiive bacteria
The present invention encompasses monoclonal and chimeric antibodies that bind to lipoteichoic acid of Gram positive bacteria. The antibodies also bind to whole bacteria and enhance phagocytosis and killing of the bacteria in vitro and enhance protection from lethal infection in vivo. The mouse monoclonal antibody has been humanized and the resulting chimeric antibody provides a previously unknown means to diagnose, prevent and/or treat infections caused by gram positive bacteria bearing lipoteichoic acid. This invention also encompasses a peptide mimic of the lipoteichoic acid epitope binding site defined by the monoclonal antibody. This epitope or epitope peptide mimic identifies other antibodies that may bind to the lipoteichoic acid epitope. Moreover, the epitope or epitope peptide mimic provides a valuable substrate for the generation of vaccines or other therapeutics. |
| US08372951B2 |
Cell penetrating peptides for intracellular delivery
A cell penetrating peptide which has following sequence: NYBX1BX2BNQX3, wherein B represents a basic amino acid, X1 represents an amino acid with an aromatic, a hydrophobic or an uncharged side chain, X2 represents any amino acid, and X3 represents N or none is described. A method for delivering a cargo into a subject by administrating a complex comprising the cell penetrating peptide and the desired cargo to the subject is also described. |
| US08372950B2 |
IgG binding peptide
The present invention provides a peptide capable of specifically binding to human IgG. In particular, the present invention relates to a human IgG binding peptide tag of 11 to 16 amino acids in length, comprising at least an amino acid sequence of the formula I: C-(X)n-W-X-X-X-W-(X)m-C(I)(SEQ ID NO: 17) wherein n and m are each an integer of 1 or more and the sum n+m is 4 or 5, wherein X-X-X in the formula I contains no cysteine residue, and wherein said amino acid sequence satisfies either or both of a) and b): a) (X)n-W in the formula I denotes Za-G-Y-W (SEQ ID NO: 18); and b) W-(X)m in the formula I denotes W-G-L-Zb (SEQ ID NO: 19) wherein Za and Zb are each 0, 1, or more amino acid residues. |
| US08372945B2 |
Conjugated polymers with carbonyl substituted thieno[3,4-B]thiophene units for polymer solar cell active layer materials
In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a series of conjugated polymers used, among other things, as polymer solar cell or polymer photovoltaic device active layer materials, is provided. In one embodiment, the conjugated polymers have the general structure and formula shown in (I), wherein: R1 and R2 are independently selected from proton, halogens, alkyls, aryls and substituted aryls; Ar is selected from the group consisting of monocyclic, bicyclic and polycyclic arylene, or monocyclic, bicyclic and polycyclic heteroarylene. In another embodiment, the conjugated photovoltaic polymers are comprised of repeated units having the general structure of formula (II), wherein, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, and R6 are independently selected from proton, alkyls, halogens, aryls, substituted aryls, and other kinds of substituents. Synthesis methods of several polymers of the present disclosure are provided, and absorption spectra and electrochemical cyclic voltammetry data of some polymers, and also the photovoltaic properties of the polymers in this present disclosure are also provided. |
| US08372944B1 |
Synthesis of hyperbranched amphiphilic polyester and theranostic nanoparticles thereof
A method of making a hyperbranched amphiphilic polyester compound includes drying under vacuum a mixture of 2-(4-hydroxybutyl)-malonic acid and p-toluene sulphonic acid as catalyst. The vacuum is then released with a dry inert gas after drying. The dried mixture is heated under the inert gas at a temperature sufficient for polymerization. The inert gas is evacuated while continuing to heat the mixture. The formed polymer is then dissolved in dimethylformamide and precipitated out by adding methanol. Modifications of the method yield nanoparticles of polyesters having properties suited for coencapsulating fluorescent dyes together with therapeutic drugs, resulting in theranostic nanoparticles, that is, nanoparticles useful in both therapeutic treatments and diagnostic methods. |
| US08372939B1 |
Transparent polyurethanes
The present invention teaches a new process to produce novel, hard, optically clear, impact-resistant polyurethane polymers that are characterized by excellent thermo mechanical properties and chemical resistance, and the polymers made as a result of such a process.The polyurethanes are made by reacting in a one step process 1) a stoichiometric excess of aliphatic polyisocyanate whereby the index is between 95 to 120; 2) a primary amine-terminated polyether with an amine functionality of about 2 and a molecular weight of greater than 400; 3) a polyol having an average hydroxyl functionality greater than or equal to 2 and an average hydroxyl equivalent weight of from about 300 to about 2,000, and 4) an aromatic diamine; wherein component 3 must less be present in a ratio of less than five to one stoichiometric equivalents relative to equivalents of component 2, and 5) optionally, a cross linking agent. |
| US08372938B2 |
Mask material composition, method of forming impurity diffusion layer, and solar battery
A mask material composition that is used for diffusion barrier of an impurity diffusing component into a semiconductor substrate includes a siloxane resin (A1) containing a constituent unit represented by the following formula (a1): wherein R1 is a single bond or C1-C5 alkylene group; and R2 is a C6-C20 aryl group. |
| US08372935B2 |
Compounds with a guanidine structure and use thereof for as organopolysiloxane polycondensation catalysts
The invention relates to novel compounds with a guanidine structure, and more particularly nontoxic compounds with a silylated guanidine structure. |
| US08372933B2 |
Hyperbranched polymers based on cyclodextrins and poly (amidoamines) for the controlled release of insoluble drugs
Hyperbranched, water-soluble polymers, obtainable by Michael polyaddition of α-, β-, or γ-cyclodextrins and amines to bisacrylamides. |
| US08372930B2 |
High vinyl terminated propylene based oligomers
This invention relates to a co-oligomer having an Mn of 300 to 30,000 g/mol comprising 10 to 90 mol % propylene and 10 to 90 mol % of ethylene, wherein the oligomer has at least X % allyl chain ends, where: 1) X=(−0.94 (mole % ethylene incorporated)+100), when 10 to 60 mole % ethylene is present in the co-oligomer, and 2) X=45, when greater than 60 and less than 70 mole % ethylene is present in the co-oligomer, and 3) X=(1.83*(mole % ethylene incorporated)−83), when 70 to 90 mole % ethylene is present in the co-oligomer. This invention also relates to a homo-oligomer, comprising propylene, wherein the oligomer has: at least 93% allyl chain ends, an Mn of about 500 to about 20,000 g/mol, an isobutyl chain end to allylic vinyl group ratio of 0.8:1 to 1.2:1.0, and less than 100 ppm aluminum. This invention also relates to a process of making homo-oligomer, comprising propylene, wherein the productivity is greater than 4500 g/mmol Hf (or Zr)/hour. |
| US08372929B2 |
Non-ionic additives soluble in water and in solvents
The invention relates to copolymers that can be obtained by the polymerization of monomers (A), (B), (C) and (D), where (A) is a monomer of formula (I) wherein A is C2-C4 alkylene and B is a C2-C4 alkylene different from A, R is hydrogen or methyl, m is a number between 1 and 500, and n is a number between 1 and 500, the sum of m+n being equal to between 2 and 1000; (B) is a monomer of formula (II) wherein D is C3 alkylene, R is hydrogen or methyl, and o is a number between 2 and 500; (C) is an ethylenically unsaturated monomer containing an aromatic group; and (D) is an ethylenically unsaturated monomer containing an alkyl radical. |
| US08372928B2 |
Hard, impermeable, flexible and conformal organic coatings
Disclosed is a substantially alternating copolymer that is conformal, hard, flexible, and has low oxygen permeability. Also disclosed is an iCVD-based method of coating a substrate with the substantially alternating copolymer. |
| US08372926B2 |
Fatty acid monomers to reduce emissions and toughen polymers
Novel fatty acid monomers and methods for their synthesis are provided for use in polymerization reactions. Fatty acid monomers are employed as reactive diluents in the polymerization of vinyl esters and polyesters for one or more purposes selected from improving the fracture resistance, lowering the processing viscosity and reducing the volatile organic compounds present in the polymerization mixture. |
| US08372920B2 |
Water-absorbing polymer structure with improved color stability
The present invention relates to a water-absorbing polymer structure comprising about 10 to about 100,000 ppm, based on the solids content of the water-absorbing polymer structure, of a non-polymerized sulphonate, a non-polymerized salt of a sulphonate or a mixture of a non-polymerized sulphonate and a non-polymerized salt of a sulphonate, and less than 1,000 ppm, based on the solids content of the water-absorbing polymer structure, of non-polymerized sulphites, non-polymerized bisulfites, non-polymerized sulphinates or non-polymerized salts of these compounds. |
| US08372919B2 |
Method for making sulfurized polyacrylonitrile
In a method for making sulfurized polyacrylonitrile, polyacrylonitrile, a first solvent, a catalyst, and sulfur or sodium thiosulfate are provided. The polyacrylonitrile is dissolved in the first solvent to form a polyacrylonitrile solution. The catalyst is uniformly dispersed in the polyacrylonitrile solution. The polyacrylonitrile solution with the catalyst is heated to induce a cyclizing reaction of the polyacrylonitrile, thereby forming a first conjugated polymer solution with a conjugated polymer. The sulfur or sodium thiosulfate is uniformly mixed with the conjugated polymer to form a mixture. The mixture is heated to form sulfurized polyacrylonitrile. |
| US08372913B2 |
Radiation curable inkjet printing methods
An inkjet printing method includes the steps of a) providing a first radiation curable composition curable by free radical polymerization or cationic polymerization; b) applying a layer of the first radiation curable composition on a substrate; c) curing the layer; d) jetting on the cured layer a second composition curable by a different polymerization than the first composition but selected from the group consisting of free radical polymerization and cationic polymerization; and e) curing the jetted second composition by a different polymerization than the first composition. The first composition includes a cationically polymerizable compound having at least one (meth)acrylate group present in the first curable composition in an amount of at least 25 wt % based upon the total weight of the first curable composition. An inkjet ink set may be used in the above inkjet printing method. |
| US08372912B2 |
Polyvinyl chloride compositions
A polyvinyl chloride composition having polyvinyl chloride resin and a plasticizer ester selected from di-butyl terephthalate, di-isobutyl terephthalate, or mixtures thereof. |
| US08372908B2 |
Method of fabrication of nanoparticulate composites using monomer stabilization
An improved method is provided to prepare reinforced resin nanocomposites without the need of surfactants or coupling agents. The present invention comprises the use of monomers for improving the dispersion of nano-sized materials and enhancing the particle/matrix interaction. One comprises mixing a plurality of nanoparticles with a monomer resin to form a mixture, blending a catalyst and a promoter with the mixture, and curing the blended mixture to form a polymerized nanocomposite. The monomers, which serve to stabilize the nanoparticles, are covalently bound onto the nanoparticle surface and copolymerize with non-bound monomers after introduction of a catalyst and a promoter that initiate polymerization. Without any additional surfactant or coupling agent, the resin is chemically bound onto the nanoparticle surface and protects the iron nanoparticles from agglomeration and oxidation. |
| US08372907B2 |
Stabilizer for chlorine-containing resins and chlorine-containing resin composition
A stabilizer for chlorine-containing resins of the invention consists of a polyol mixture composed of pentaerythritol and condensates thereof, wherein, with respect to the total amount of the polyol mixture, the content of pentaerythritol having a degree of condensation (n) of 1 is 0 to 10% by mass and the total content of pentaerythritol and condensates thereof having a degree of condensation (n) of 1 to 3 is 5 to 30% by mass. A chlorine-containing resin composition of the invention contains, with respect to 100 parts by mass of a chlorine-containing resin, 0.01 to 10 parts by mass of the above-mentioned stabilizer for chlorine-containing resins. |
| US08372904B2 |
Adsorptive ultra-fine metal particles
Adsorptive ultra-fine metal particles having a bond between an organic acid component and a metal, and exhibiting an infrared absorption peak derived from the bond between the organic acid component and the metal near 1518 cm−1. The adsorptive ultra-fine metal particles are capable of exhibiting excellent deodorizing property and VOC-adsorbing property without impairing properties and formability of the resin. The invention is further concerned to an adsorptive resin composition and an adsorptive coating material containing the adsorptive ultra-fine metal particles and are capable of forming shaped resin articles or coatings. |
| US08372900B2 |
Cellulosic composite with binder comprising salt of inorganic acid
Provided is a cellulosic composite comprised of cellulosic material and a binder. The binder comprises an aldehyde or ketone and amine salt of an inorganic acid. The composition when mixed with cellulosic material and cured forms a cellulosic composite. |
| US08372899B2 |
Flame retardant polymer compositions
Flame retardant compositions are disclosed which comprise (a) at least one particulate material which expands on the application of heat and (b) at least one particulate nano-filler, together with at least one polymer and/or at least one curable monomer or oligomer. The compositions may also contain certain silicon-based materials. Flame-retardant compositions comprising polyorganosiloxanes containing one or more functional groups selected from amino, hydroxyl, methacrylic, acrylic and epoxy groups, are also disclosed. |
| US08372898B1 |
Aqueous cyan inkjet ink composition containing a mixture of a self-dispersed pigment and a specific cosolvent mixture
The invention relates to an aqueous cyan inkjet ink composition for use in ink jet printers comprising an aqueous carrier, a self dispersed cyan pigment, a polymeric additive, a surfactant, and a specific cosolvent mixture comprising a C2-C8 terminal alkanediol, a cyclic amide compound and its derivative, a polyol/polyalkylene oxide condensate, and a trihydric alcohol. Preferably, the self dispersed cyan pigment is surface modified with bisphosphonate group. The cyan inkjet ink demonstrates excellent stability, superior chroma, good printhead maintenance characteristics and high heater reliability in permanent and semi permanent printheads. |
| US08372893B2 |
Polyurethane foam
This disclosure describes a method of making a polyurethane foam and a method of reducing NVH expected to be experienced by a substrate using the foam. When the foam is subjected to 95% relative humidity for a period of 7 days at a temperature of about 50° C., the foam absorbs an amount of water that is less than about 30% of the weight of the foam. |
| US08372892B2 |
Attached, high reactivity rigid polyurethane foams
Polyurethane foams are made and attached to a substrate having an open cavity, but reacting prepolymer and polyol components in the presence of certain carbamate blowing agents. This process allows for very fast curing, good quality, adherent foamy to be produced on, for example, vehicle parts and assemblies, for acoustical or vibration dampening and for structural reinforcement. |
| US08372890B2 |
Functional food containing sodium tricaffeoylaldarate
Components that demonstrate an α-glucosidase inhibitory activity and hyperglycemic inhibitory activity have clearly been provided from among the components included in Yacon. The present inventors found that as a result of screening for a strong anti-oxidant component in a Yacon aerial portion extract, an antioxidant activity was converged in a DIAION HP-20 column chromatography 50% methanol-eluted fraction of hot water extract. Thus, since a previously unidentified high-content component was confirmed, the present inventors conducted purification thereof, and thereby separated TCAA. As a result, this TCAA was found to be the component that demonstrates the α-glucosidase inhibitory activity and hyperglycemic inhibitory activity. |
| US08372882B2 |
Functionalized phenolic esters and amides and polymers therefrom
The present invention relates to a compound of the formula: R-AR—O—Y—R′ Wherein R represents one or more members selected from H, alkoxy, benzyloxy, aldehyde, halogen, carboxylic acid, —NO2, —NH2, —NHCOCH3, and —NH—Y—R′, which is attached directly to AR or attached through an aliphatic chain. The carboxylic acid moiety in R includes but is not limited to the following carboxylic acids: benzoic acids, cinnamic acids, ferulic acid, caffeic acid, syringic acid, salicyclic acid, vanillic acid, phenylacetic acids, phenylpropionic acids, and sinapinic acid.-AR—O— is a biologically active phenolic moiety comprising 1 to 6 substituted or unsubstituted aryl rings that are directly bonded to each other, fused together, or joined through a linking group. Y represents a member selected from: —COCH2O— (glycolic ester moiety) —COCH(CH3)O— (lactic ester moiety) —COCH2OCH2CH2O— (dioxanone ester moiety) —COCH2CH2CH2CH2CH2O— (caprolactone ester moiety) —CO(CH2)mO— where m is an integer between 2-4 and 6-24 inclusive —CO CH2O (CH2CH2O)n— where n is an integer between 2 and 24, inclusive; and R′ is either hydrogen or a benzyl or an alkyl group, the alkyl group being either straight-chained or branched. The resultant functionalized phenolic compounds, used singly or in combinations, and their polymers have controllable degradation profiles, releasing the active component over a desired time range. The polymers are useful for biomaterials and biomedical devices, wherein said biologically active phenolic moiety is a residue of a phenolic compound. |
| US08372880B2 |
Compositions and methods using same for treating amyloid-associated diseases
Compounds having one or more phenol moieties, derivatives thereof, compositions containing same and uses thereof for the treatment of amyloid-associated diseases are provided. |
| US08372879B2 |
4-(heterocycloalkyl) benzene-1,3-diol compounds as tyrosinase inhibitors, process for the preparation thereof and use thereof in human medicine and also in cosmetics
4-(heterocycloalkyl)benzene-1,3-diol compounds are described corresponding to general formula (I) below: Also described, are compositions including the same, processes for preparation thereof and to the use thereof in pharmaceutical or cosmetic compositions for use in the treatment or prevention of pigmentary disorders. |
| US08372877B2 |
Stabilized statin formulations
The present invention is directed to statin formulations having improved solubility and/or stability and methods for the same. |
| US08372871B2 |
Histidinol dehydrogenase inhibitors, and use thereof as medicaments
Compounds of general formula (I) below: are characterized in that A represents in particular a C5-C10 heterocyclic group, Y represents in particular a single bond, and B represents in particular an aryl or heteroaryl group. |
| US08372866B2 |
2-aryl and 2-heteroaryl 4H-1-benzopyran-4-one-6-amidino derivatives, new pharmacological agents for the treatment of arthritis, cancer and related pain
2-aryl and 2-heteroaryl 4h-1-benzopyran-4-one-6-amidino derivatives formula (I) useful as pharmacological agents for the treatment of arthritis, cancer and related pain. |
| US08372862B2 |
Pharmaceutical composition for preventing or treating osteoporosis or obesity comprising phenyltetrazole derivative
A phamaceutical composition comprising a phenyltetrazole derivative of formula (I) or a pharmaceutical acceptable salt thereof is effective in preventing or treating osteoporosis, obesity, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia, by regulating protein TAZ. wherein, A is ethyl or n-butyl; R1 is methyl, —CH2OH, —CO2CH3, —CH2F, —CH(OCH3)2, —CH2OC(═O)CH3, styryl or —CH2OCH2SCH3; R2 is H, Br, —CO2CH3, phenyl, pyridin-2-yl, pyridin-3-yl, or styryl; R3 is H or methyl; X is CH or N; and P is H or —CH(CH3)OCH2CH3. |
| US08372860B2 |
Carboline derivatives useful in the inhibition of angiogenesis
In accordance with the present invention, compounds that inhibit the expression of VEGF post-transcriptionally have been identified, and methods for their use provided. In one aspect of the invention, compounds useful in the inhibition of VEGF production, in the treatment of solid tumor cancer, and in reducing plasma and/or tumor VEGF levels, are provided. In another aspect of the invention, methods are provided for the inhibition of VEGF production, the treatment of cancer, and the reduction of plasma and/or tumor VEGF levels, using the compounds of the invention. |
| US08372857B2 |
Substituted 4-hydroxypyrimidine-5-carboxamides
The present invention relates to substituted 4-hydroxypyrimidine-5-carboxamides useful as HIF prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors to treat anemia and like conditions. |
| US08372854B2 |
Pyrrolo[2,3-D]pyrimidine compounds
Described herein are pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine compounds, their use as Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitors, pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds, and methods for their preparation. |
| US08372851B2 |
Pyrazolo pyrimidines as casein kinase II (CK2) modulators
A compound according to Formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R1, R2, R6, R7 and Z are as defined in the specification; pharmaceutical compositions thereof; and methods of use thereof. |
| US08372849B2 |
Heterocyclic compounds
This invention relates to heterocyclic compounds of the formulas shown in the specification. It also relates to methods for treating inflammatory diseases or immune diseases, developmental or degenerative diseases, and tissue injuries with one of the heterocyclic compounds. |
| US08372847B2 |
Pyrazinone modulator of corticotropin-releasing factor receptor activity
The invention relates to the compound (S)-4-(1-cyclopropyl-2-methoxyethyl)-6-(6-(difluoromethoxy)-2,5-dimethylpyridin-3-ylamino)-5-oxo-4,5-dihydropyrazine-2-carbonitrile, pharmaceutical compositions of the compound, and methods of using the compound for the treatment of psychiatric disorders and neurological diseases including depression, anxiety related disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, addiction and negative aspects of drug and alcohol withdrawal, and other conditions associated with CRF. |
| US08372846B2 |
Co-crystals and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the same
The invention relates to compositions and co-crystals each comprising (1S,3aR,6aS)-2-[(2S)-2-[[(2S)-2-Cyclohexyl-2-(pyrazine-2-carbonylamino)acetyl]amino]-3,3-dimethylbutanoyl]-N-[(3S)-1-(cyclopropylamino)-1,2-dioxohexan-3-yl]-3,3a,4,5,6,6a-hexahydro-1H-cyclopenta[c]pyrrole-1-carboxamide having the structure: and the co-crystal former 4-amino salicylic acid. Also within the scope of this invention are methods of making and using the same. |
| US08372843B2 |
Quinolines useful as modulators of ION channels
The present invention relates to compounds useful as inhibitors of ion channels. The invention also provides pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising the compounds of the invention and methods of using the compositions in the treatment of various disorders. |
| US08372842B2 |
Pyrazolopyridines as kinase inhibitors
Compounds of Formula I are useful for inhibition of CHK1 and/or CHK2. Methods of using compounds of Formula I and stereoisomers and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, for in vitro, in situ, and in vivo diagnosis, prevention or treatment of such disorders in mammalian cells, or associated pathological conditions are disclosed. |
| US08372836B2 |
Spray dried formulation
Pharmaceutical compositions comprising a poorly water soluble ionizable drug, a cationic species and a dispersion polymer are disclosed, together with a process for forming the compositions. The neutral form of the drug has (i) a solubility of less than 1 mg/ml, in aqueous solution at a pH between 6 and 7, (ii) a solubility of less than 20 mg/mL in a volatile organic solvent, and (iii) an acidic pKa value of greater than 5. At least 90 wt % of the drug in the solid dispersion being in a non-crystalline form. The drug, the cationic species, and the dispersion polymer constitute at least 80 wt % of the solid dispersion. |
| US08372832B2 |
1,4-diaza-bicyclo[3.2.2]nonyl oxadiazolyl compounds and their medical use
This invention relates to novel 1,4-diaza-bicyclo[3.2.2]nonyl oxadiazolyl derivatives and their use in the manufacture of pharmaceutical compositions. The compounds of the invention are found to be cholinergic ligands at the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and modulators of the monoamine receptors and transporters.Due to their pharmacological profile the compounds of the invention may be useful for the treatment of diseases or disorders as diverse as those related to the cholinergic system of the central nervous system (CNS), the peripheral nervous system (PNS), diseases or disorders related to smooth muscle contraction, endocrine diseases or disorders, diseases or disorders related to neuro-degeneration, diseases or disorders related to inflammation, pain, and withdrawal symptoms caused by the termination of abuse of chemical substances. |
| US08372831B2 |
Isoxazoline linked pyrrolo[2,1-c][1,4]benzodiazepine hybrids as potential anticancer agents and the process for preparation thereof
The present invention provides compounds of general formula (5a-d) and (9a-h) useful as potential antitumour agents against human cancer cell lines. The present invention also provides a process for the preparation of pyrrolo [2,1-c][1,4]benzodiazepine hybrids of general formula (5a-d) and (9a-h). |
| US08372828B2 |
Therapeutic compositions
Ingenol angelate is a potent anticancer agent, and can be stabilized by dissolving it in an aprotic solvent in the presence of an acidic buffer. |
| US08372827B2 |
Therapeutic compositions
Ingenol angelate is a potent anticancer agent, and can be stabilized by dissolving it in an aprotic solvent in the presence of an acidic buffer. |
| US08372821B2 |
Stable aqueous compositions comprising bioactive creatine species
Compositions containing one or more bioactive forms of creatine which are aqueous compositions in which the one or more bioactive forms of creatine do not appreciably degrade into creatinine. Also are methods for providing various beneficial effects which comprise administering aqueous compositions comprising at least one creating O-phosphate species to a mammalian subject, either chronically or acutely. |
| US08372820B2 |
Composition comprising silicone oil or oils structured with compolymers carrying greater than 70% long chain alkyl group
The present invention discloses silicone oils which are structured with a copolymer comprising a large percentage of alkane groups. Using high percentage pendant alkane helps provide silicone with ideal gel properties (G′>G″, particularly >1000 cP, more preferably 2000-30,000 cP) and viscosity, after fracture, of 10 to 1000 cP, preferably 30-500 cP MW of polymer and exact chain length are selected to ensure that, when forming gel upon cooling after mixing polymer and silicone, the polymer viscosity will not be so high upon crystal formation that gel cannot form, yet also will not be so low that polymer will phase separate. |
| US08372818B2 |
Targeted double stranded RNA mediated cell killing
A method of killing a specific target cell/tissue is disclosed. The method comprises exposing the specific target cell/tissue to a composition-of-matter which comprises a double stranded RNA molecule associated with a targeting moiety selected capable of targeting to the specific target cell/tissue, thereby killing the specific target cell/tissue. |
| US08372817B2 |
Small interfering RNA for gene knockdown of the subcutaneous N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor NR1 subunit, and it's application on pharmaceutics
A small interfering RNA for gene knockdown of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor NR1 subunit comprises 21 to 25 ribonucleic acids, which are homologous to the RNA sequence of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor NR1 subunit. A method of using the small interfering RNA, applying the small interfering RNA on subcutaneous tissues temporary interfere with the genetic expression of the NMDA receptor NR1 subunit in hypoderm. A use of the small interfering RNA on pharmaceutics, applying the small interfering RNA manufacture into new analgesic drugs for moderating the inflammatory pain or intolerable chronic pain, especially on clinical chronic pain and burn pain patients. An analgesic drug for skin inflammatory pain comprising: the small interfering RNA and a siRNA acceptable vehicle. |
| US08372815B2 |
Use of lipid conjugates in the treatment of conjunctivitis
In one embodiment, the invention provides a method of suppressing, inhibiting, preventing, or treating conjunctivitis in a subject, comprising the step of administering an effective amount of a lipid or phospholipid moiety bound via an ester or amide bond to a physiologically acceptable monomer, dimer, oligomer, or polymer, and/or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or a pharmaceutical product thereof to a subject with conjunctivitis. |
| US08372814B2 |
Ophthalmic formulations and uses thereof
Provided by the present invention are compositions or formulations suitable for application to a patient's eyes which utilizes a topical ophthalmically-acceptable formulation comprising a therapeutically-effective amount of an ophthalmically-active antimicrobial agent, and an ophthalmically-active anti-inflammatory or steroidal agent in combination with physiologic levels of serum electrolytes in an ophthalmic formulation for the treatment of changes in the normal eye condition. The invention also includes methods of treating patient's having an ophthalmic disease, injury or disorder, utilizing the compositions or formulations. Also provided are kits comprising the compositions or formulations and a means of applying the compositions or formulation to the patient's eyes. |
| US08372813B2 |
Antibacterial aminoglycoside analogs
Compounds having antibacterial activity are disclosed. The compounds have the following structure (I): including stereoisomers, pharmaceutically acceptable salts and prodrugs thereof, wherein Q1, Q2, R1, R2 and R3 are as defined herein. Methods associated with preparation and use of such compounds, as well as pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds, are also disclosed. |
| US08372809B2 |
Method of treating dyspnea associated with acute heart failure
The disclosure pertains to methods of reducing decompensation through acute intervention including in subjects afflicted with acute decompensated heart failure. Particularly, the disclosure provides methods for treating acute cardiac decompensation by administering a pharmaceutically effective amount of relaxin. |
| US08372806B2 |
Transdermal delivery system for treating infertility
The transdermal delivery system for treating infertility in a patient comprises an apparatus (10) for facilitating transdermal delivery of a drug (5a) through an area of the apparatus (10) comprises an ablator that is configured to generate a microporation in the area of the skin of the patient, and comprises a drug (5a), wherein the drug effects at least one of the biological regulation of at least one oocyte containing follicle, stimulation of follicle growth, induction of ovulation, promotion of gestational status, maintenance of conceptus, maintenance of pregnancy. |
| US08372801B2 |
Compositions and methods for producing recombinant proteins
A class of integral membrane proteins, referred to as Mistic polypeptides, their variants, fusion proteins including a Mistic polypeptide domain, and nucleic acid molecules encoding Mistic polypeptides and Mistic fusion proteins are disclosed herein. Also described are methods of using Mistic polypeptides and Mistic fusion proteins to produce and/or isolate recombinant proteins (including without limitation classes of eukaryotic proteins that have previously been intractable to recombinant bacterial expression, such as, eukaryotic integral membrane proteins). |
| US08372799B2 |
Reverse protein
A protein which is composed N-terminally of one or several C-terminal parts of the amino acid sequence of the mature tumor necrosis factor and C-terminally of one or several N-terminal parts of the amino acid sequence of the mature tumor necrosis factor, which activates epithelial ion channels and improves the lung function and which can be used for the manufacture of medicaments for the treatment of diseases associated with the lung function, such as oedemas. |
| US08372797B2 |
Treatment of erectile dysfunction by stem cell therapy
Methods, cells and compositions of matter are provided for treatment of erectile dysfunction using stem cell therapy. In particular, various stem cells are modified or administered freshly isolated in order to induce smooth muscle regeneration, neural regeneration, and restoration of endothelial function. In some embodiments endogenous stem cells are mobilized or activated to achieve therapeutic benefit. In other embodiments compositions derived from stem cells are utilized for treatment of erectile dysfunction. |
| US08372794B2 |
Emulsion compositions and a method for selecting surfactants
A method for preparing a microemulsion is disclosed which employs a method based upon identification of the phase behavior of a plurality of components comprising the microemulsion. Further disclosed is a microemulsion composition comprising a first component, coupling agent, and surfactant. |
| US08372789B2 |
Methods of designing treatment fluids based on solid-fluid interactions
Methods that comprise selecting proppant for use in a fracturing fluid based on one or more factors, wherein the one or more factors comprise an interaction between the proppant and the fracturing fluid. Methods that comprise designing a treatment fluid that comprises a gelled base fluid and a particulate based on one or more factors, wherein the one or more factors comprise an interaction between the particulate and the gelled base fluid. |
| US08372788B2 |
Styrylphenol alkoxylate sulfate as a new surfactant composition for enhanced oil recovery applications
A method of making a styryl phenol alkoxylate sulfate surfactant by alkoxylation of a styryl phenol using propylene oxide (PO) and/or ethylene oxide (EO) followed by a sulfation reaction. The styrylphenol alkoxylate sulfate surfactant of the present invention is made by a facile and inexpensive method. The large hydrophobe surfactants of the present invention find uses in EOR applications where it is used for solubilization and mobilization of oil optionally containing asphaltene, and for environmental cleanup. Further, the unsulfated version of the large hydrophobe styrylphenol alkoxylate surfactant of the present invention can be used as an ultra-high molecular weight non-ionic surfactant. |
| US08372786B2 |
Polyelectrolyte complexes for oil and gas applications
A polyelectrolyte complex for the controlled release of an oil and gas field chemical selected from the group consisting of (a) a gel-forming or cross-linking agent, (b) a scale inhibitor, (c) a corrosion inhibitor, (d) an inhibitor of asphaltene or wax deposition, (e) a hydrogen sulfide scavenger, (f) a hydrate inhibitor, (g) a breaking agent, and a surfactant. |
| US08372783B2 |
Permeable non-woven fabric based packaging for cut flowers
Packaging using Gas Permeable Non-Woven Fabric based Film extends the shelf life and vase life of fresh cut flowers by changing the atmosphere in which these living products are stored and respires. The high oxygen and carbon dioxide permeability of the Gas Permeable Non-Woven Fabric based Film establishes an ideal atmosphere for the cut flowers, and therefore extends its shelf life and vase life. The establishment of lower oxygen and carbon dioxide atmospheres inside packages using Gas Permeable Non-Woven Fabric based film, also leads to reduction in the respiration rate of the cut flowers. The reduction in the respiration rate prevents loss of moisture, production of metabolic heat, and yellowing, browning, reduction in production levels of ethylene. Thus the created atmosphere is able to extend shelf life, maintain high quality and preserve nutrients of cut flowers items by naturally regulating respiration of said flower. |
| US08372780B2 |
Catalysts containing tungstate for the synthesis of alkyl mercaptan and method for the production thereof
The invention relates to a catalyst containing alkali tungstate for the synthesis of alkylmercaptanes from alkanols and hydrogen sulphide, in addition to a method for the production of said catalyst, wherein the molar ratio of alkali to tungsten is <2:1. |
| US08372776B2 |
Hydroprocessing bulk catalyst and methods of making thereof
A hydroprocessing bulk catalyst is provided. A process to prepare hydroprocessing bulk catalysts is also provided. The hydroprocessing catalyst has the formula (Rp)i(Mt)a(Lu)b(Sv)d(Cw)e(Hx)f(Oy)g(Nz)h, wherein M is at least at least a “d” block element metal; L is also at least a “d” block element metal, but different from M; t, u, v, w, x, y, z representing the total charge for each of the components (M, L, S, C, H, O and N, respectively); R is optional and in one embodiment, R is a lanthanoid element metal; 0<=i<=1; pi+ta+ub+vd+we+xf+yg+zh=0; 0 |
| US08372774B2 |
Photocatalyst-coated body and photocatalytic coating liquid therefor
A photocatalyst-coated body comprises a substrate and a photocatalyst layer provided on the substrate, the photocatalyst layer comprising photocatalyst particles of 1 part or more by mass and less than 20 parts by mass, inorganic oxide particles of 70 parts or more by mass and less than 99 parts by mass, and the dried substance of a hydrolyzable silicone of zero parts or more by mass and less than 10 parts by mass, provided that a total amount of the photocatalyst particles, the dried substance of the inorganic oxide particles and the hydrolyzable silicone is 100 parts by mass in terms of silica. The inorganic oxide particles have a number average particle diameter ranging from 10 nm or more to less than 40 nm calculated by measuring lengths of 100 particles randomly selected from particles located within a visible field magnified 200,000 times by a scanning electron microscope. |
| US08372771B2 |
System and method for catalyst activation
A system and method for activating chromium catalyst, including: increasing temperature of a chromium catalyst at a first rate for a first period of time to a first temperature; and increasing temperature of the chromium catalyst at a second rate for a second period of time from the first temperature to a second temperature, wherein the first rate is greater than the second rate, and wherein the first period precedes the second period. |
| US08372768B2 |
Optical glass and optical apparatus using the same
An optical glass in which a Cr content is less than 5 ppm, or a Sm content is 3 ppm or less, with respect to a 100% basic glass composition containing 2-10% SiO2, 5-45% B2O3, 0-15% RO (R═Zn, Sr, Ca, Ba), 30-60% La2O3, 0-40% Ln2O3 (Ln=Y, Gd), and, 0-30% ZrO2+Nb2O5+Ta2O5 by weight, and an optical apparatus which is provided with an optical system having the optical glass. |
| US08372766B2 |
Conductive webs
Conductive nonwoven webs are disclosed. The nonwoven webs contain pulp fibers combined with conductive fibers. In one embodiment, the webs are made in a wetlaid tissue making process. |
| US08372761B2 |
Plasma oxidation processing method, plasma processing apparatus and storage medium
A silicon oxide film is formed in a processing chamber of a plasma processing apparatus by performing oxidation process, by using plasma to a processing object having a patterned irregularity, wherein the plasma is generated while high-frequency power is supplied to a mount table under the conditions that the oxygen content in a process gas is not less than 0.5% and less than 10% and the process pressure is 1.3 to 665 Pa. |
| US08372758B2 |
Combinatorial plasma enhanced deposition techniques
Combinatorial plasma enhanced deposition techniques are described, including designating multiple regions of a substrate, providing a precursor to at least a first region of the multiple regions, and providing a plasma to the first region to deposit a first material on the first region formed using the first precursor, wherein the first material is different from a second material formed on a second region of the substrate. |
| US08372757B2 |
Wet etching methods for copper removal and planarization in semiconductor processing
Exposed copper regions on a semiconductor substrate can be etched by a wet etching solution comprising (i) one or more complexing agents selected from the group consisting of bidentate, tridentate, and quadridentate complexing agents; and (ii) an oxidizer, at a pH of between about 5 and 12. In many embodiments, the etching is substantially isotropic and occurs without visible formation of insoluble species on the surface of copper. The etching is useful in a number of processes in semiconductor fabrication, including for partial or complete removal of copper overburden, for planarization of copper surfaces, and for forming recesses in copper-filled damascene features. Examples of suitable etching solutions include solutions comprising a diamine (e.g., ethylenediamine) and/or a triamine (e.g., diethylenetriamine) as bidentate and tridentate complexing agents respectively and hydrogen peroxide as an oxidizer. In some embodiments, the etching solutions further include pH adjustors, such as sulfuric acid, aminoacids, and carboxylic acids. |
| US08372755B2 |
Multilayer hard mask
A method for fabricating a semiconductor device is disclosed. In an embodiment, the method may include providing a semiconductor substrate; forming gate material layers over the semiconductor substrate; forming a multi-layer hard mask layer over the gate material layers, wherein the multi-layer hard mask layer includes a plurality of film stacks, each film stack having a silicon oxide layer and a carbon-containing material layer, each film stack having a thickness equal to or less than about 10 angstrom; patterning the multi-layer hard mask layer, forming an opening of the multi-hard mask layer; etching the gate material layers within the opening of the multi-layer hard mask layer, forming a gate structure; performing a tilt-angle ion implantation process to the semiconductor substrate, wherein a first remaining thickness of the multi-layer hard mask layer is less than a first thickness; and thereafter performing an epitaxy growth to the semiconductor substrate, wherein a second remaining thickness of the multi-layer hard mask layer is greater than a second thickness. |
| US08372747B2 |
Semiconductor device including gate electrode for applying tensile stress to silicon substrate, and method of manufacturing the same
A gate insulating film and a gate electrode of non-single crystalline silicon for forming an nMOS transistor are provided on a silicon substrate. Using the gate electrode as a mask, n-type dopants having a relatively large mass number (70 or more) such as As ions or Sb ions are implanted, to form a source/drain region of the nMOS transistor, whereby the gate electrode is amorphized. Subsequently, a silicon oxide film is provided to cover the gate electrode, at a temperature which is less than the one at which recrystallization of the gate electrode occurs. Thereafter, thermal processing is performed at a temperature of about 1000° C., whereby high compressive residual stress is exerted on the gate electrode, and high tensile stress is applied to a channel region under the gate electrode. As a result, carrier mobility of the nMOS transistor is enhanced. |
| US08372746B2 |
Electrode of semiconductor device and method for fabricating capacitor
An electrode of a semiconductor device includes a TiCN layer and a TiN layer. A method for fabricating an electrode of a semiconductor device includes preparing a substrate, forming a TiCN layer, and forming a TiN layer. |
| US08372738B2 |
Method for manufacturing a gallium nitride based semiconductor device with improved termination scheme
This invention discloses a gallium nitride based semiconductor power device disposed in a semiconductor substrate. The power device comprises a termination area disposed at a peripheral area of the semiconductor power device comprises a termination structure having at least a guard ring disposed in a trench filled with doped gallium-based epitaxial layer therein. |
| US08372736B2 |
Method and apparatus for reducing flicker noise in a semiconductor device
Some embodiments discussed relate to an integrated circuit and methods for making it. In an example, a method can include providing a semiconductor wafer including a fin, and introducing a noise-reducing dopant into a sidewall of the fin. |
| US08372733B2 |
Method for fabricating a locally passivated germanium-on-insulator substrate
The invention relates to a method for fabricating a locally passivated germanium-on-insulator substrate wherein, in order to achieve good electron mobility, nitridized regions are provided at localised positions. Nitridizing is achieved using a plasma treatment. The resulting substrates also form part of the invention. |
| US08372732B2 |
Method for fabricating non-volatile memory device
A method for fabricating a non-volatile memory device includes repeatedly stacking interlayer dielectric layers and gate conductive layers on a substrate; etching the interlayer dielectric layers and the gate conductive layers to form cell channel holes that expose the substrate, forming a protective layer along a resultant structure, forming a capping layer on the protective layer to fill the cell channel holes, planarizing the protective layer and the capping layer until an uppermost one of the interlayer dielectric layers is exposed, forming a gate conductive layer for select transistors and an interlayer dielectric layer for select transistors on a resultant structure, etching the interlayer dielectric layer and the gate conductive layer, to form select transistor channel holes that expose the capping layer while removing the capping layer buried in the cell channel holes, and removing the protective layer. |
| US08372729B1 |
Integrated circuit devices with ESD protection in scribe line, and methods for fabricating same
A semiconductor wafer including an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protective device, and methods for fabricating the same. In one aspect, the method includes forming a first semiconductor device in a first semiconductor die region on the semiconductor wafer; forming a second semiconductor device in a second semiconductor die region on the semiconductor wafer; and forming a protective device in a scribe line region between (i) the first semiconductor die region and (ii) the second semiconductor die region. |
| US08372728B2 |
Process for fabricating a multilayer structure with trimming using thermo-mechanical effects
The invention relates to a process for fabricating a multilayer structure that includes bonding a first wafer onto a second wafer, where the first wafer may have a chamfered edge and the bonding interface has an adhesion energy of less than or equal to 1 J/m2, and thinning the first wafer so as to form a transferred layer, where before thinning the first wafer, a step of trimming the edge of the first wafer is carried out using a grinding wheel having a working surface which comprises grit particles with an average size of greater than or equal to 800 mesh or less than or equal to 18 microns, and wherein the trimming step is carried out by lowering the grinding wheel at a rate of descent of greater than or equal to 5 microns per second, such that the descent of the grinding wheel into the first wafer continues to a distance from the bonding interface that is less than or equal to 30 μm. |
| US08372727B2 |
Method for fabricating light emitting device
Provided is a method for fabricating a light emitting device. The method includes forming a gallium oxide layer; forming a first conductive type semiconductor layer, an active layer, and a second conductive type semiconductor layer on the gallium oxide layer; forming a non-conductive substrate on the second conductive type semiconductor layer; separating the gallium oxide layer forming a conductive substrate on the first conductive type semiconductor layer; and separating the non-conductive substrate. |
| US08372724B2 |
Device and manufacturing method thereof
A device manufacturing method includes forming a first insulation film on a semiconductor substrate. A first mask is formed on the first insulation film to extend in a first direction and have a linear pattern. The first insulation film is etched using the first mask as mask to process the insulation film into a linear body. A second mask is formed on the linear body to extend in a second direction different from the first direction and have a linear pattern. The linear body is etched using the second mask as mask to process the linear body into a pillar element. A first conductive film is formed to cover the pillar body. The first conductive film is etched to form a first electrode of the first conductive film on side surfaces of the pillar body. |
| US08372722B2 |
Method for fabricating a semiconductor device
A method of fabricating semiconductor device includes forming a recess having a substantially rectangular section and forming an oxide layer on sidewalls and an oxide layer on a bottom of the recess by anisotropic oxidation, wherein the oxide layer on the sidewalls is thinner than the oxide layer on the bottom of recess. The method further includes completely removing the oxide layer on the sidewalls and partially removing the oxide layer on the bottom of the recess. The method also includes performing an orientation selective wet etching on the recess using a remaining oxide layer of the recess as a stop layer to shape the sidewalls into a Σ shaped section. The method includes removing the remaining oxide layer using an isotropic wet etching. |
| US08372720B2 |
Non-volatile semiconductor storage device and method of manufacturing the same
A non-volatile semiconductor storage device has a plurality of memory strings to each of which a plurality of electrically rewritable memory cells are connected in series. Each of the memory strings includes first semiconductor layers each having a pair of columnar portions extending in a vertical direction with respect to a substrate and a coupling portion formed to couple the lower ends of the pair of columnar portions; a charge storage layer formed to surround the side surfaces of the columnar portions; and first conductive layers formed to surround the side surfaces of the columnar portions and the charge storage layer. The first conductive layers function as gate electrodes of the memory cells. |
| US08372718B2 |
Manufacturing method of semiconductor device and semiconductor device
An improvement is provided in a manufacturing yield of a semiconductor device including transistors in which gate insulating films have different thicknesses. After a high-breakdown-voltage insulating film is formed over a silicon substrate, a surface of the high-breakdown-voltage insulating film is abraded for a reduction in the thickness thereof so that a middle-breakdown-voltage insulating film is formed to be adjacent to the high-breakdown-voltage insulating film. The high-breakdown-voltage insulating film is formed by a thermal oxidation method so as to extend from an inside of the main surface of the silicon substrate to an outside thereof. The middle-breakdown-voltage insulating film is formed so as to be thinner than the high-breakdown-voltage insulating film. The high-breakdown-voltage insulating film is formed as the gate insulating film of a high-breakdown-voltage MIS transistor, while the middle-breakdown-voltage insulating film is formed as the gate insulating film of a middle-breakdown-voltage MIS transistor. |
| US08372717B2 |
Method for manufacturing a super-junction trench MOSFET with resurf stepped oxides and trenched contacts
A method of manufacturing a super junction semiconductor device having resurf stepped oxide structure is disclosed by providing semiconductor silicon layer having trenches and mesas. A plurality of first doped column regions of a second conductivity type in parallel surrounded with second doped column regions of a first conductivity type adjacent to sidewalls of the trenches are formed by angle ion implantations into a plurality of mesas through opening regions in a block layer covering both the mesas and a termination area. |
| US08372712B2 |
Memory device and method of manufacturing the same
In a memory device and a method of manufacturing the memory device, a source contact connected to a common source line may be formed on a drain region instead of a source region. A transistor having a negative threshold voltage may be formed between the source region and the drain region. A channel of the transistor may be formed. Because the source contact is formed on the drain region, the size of the source region may be reduced. An integration degree of the memory device may be improved. A control gate may linearly extend in a second direction because the source contact is not formed on the source region. |
| US08372710B2 |
Vertical transistors
A semiconductor structure having U-shaped transistors includes source/drain regions at the tops of pairs of pillars defined by crossing trenches in the substrate. One pillar is connected to the other pillar in the pair by a ridge that extends above the surrounding trenches. The ridge and lower portions of the pillars define U-shaped channels on opposite sides of the U-shaped structure, facing a gate structure in the trenches on those opposite sides, forming a two sided surround transistor. Optionally, the space between the pillars of a pair is also filled with gate electrode material to define a three-sided surround gate transistor. One of the source/drain regions of each pair extending to a digit line and the other extending to a memory storage device, such as a capacitor. Methods of forming semiconductor structures are also disclosed. |
| US08372705B2 |
Fabrication of CMOS transistors having differentially stressed spacers
CMOS transistors are formed incorporating a gate electrode having tensely stressed spacers on the gate sidewalls of an n channel field effect transistor and having compressively stressed spacers on the gate sidewalls of a p channel field effect transistor to provide differentially stressed channels in respective transistors to increase carrier mobility in the respective channels. |
| US08372692B2 |
Method of stacking flip-chip on wire-bonded chip
Some of the embodiments of the present disclosure provide apparatuses, systems, and methods for stacking chips. A first chip may be mounted on a substrate, wherein an active surface of the first chip faces away from the substrate, and wherein the first chip includes a plurality of bump pads located on the active surface of the first chip, and a wire may bond a first bump pad of the plurality of bump pads to the substrate. An intermediate layer may be disposed on at least a portion of the active surface of the first chip, and a via within the intermediate layer may extend to a second bump pad of the plurality of bump pads. A second chip may be disposed on the intermediate layer, wherein an active surface of the second chip faces towards the substrate, and wherein the second chip includes a third bump pad (i) located on the active surface of the second chip and (ii) aligned with the via formed in the intermediate layer. A corresponding bump may be disposed on one or more of (i) the second bump pad located on the active surface of the first chip and (ii) the third bump pad located on the active surface of the second chip, and within the via, wherein the corresponding bump electrically connects the second bump pad with the third bump pad. Other embodiments are also described and claimed. |
| US08372685B2 |
Bandgap grading in thin-film devices via solid group IIIA particles
Methods and devices are provided for forming thin-films from solid group IIIA-based particles. In one embodiment, a method is provided for bandgap grading in a thin-film device using such particles. The method may be comprised of providing a bandgap grading material comprising of an alloy having: a) a IIIA material and b) a group IA-based material, wherein the alloy has a higher melting temperature than a melting temperature of the IIIA material in elemental form. A precursor material may be deposited on a substrate to form a precursor layer. The precursor material comprising group IB, IIIA, and/or VIA based particles. The bandgap grading material of the alloy may be deposited after depositing the precursor material. The alloy in the grading material may react after the precursor layer has begun to sinter and thus maintains a higher concentration of IIIA material in a portion of the compound film that forms above a portion that sinters first. |
| US08372682B2 |
Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing same
In a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device according to an embodiment, a trench is formed in an outer peripheral portion of a chip region on a bonding surface of a support substrate, and a semiconductor substrate having a chip ring in the outer peripheral portions of the chip regions on an inside of a dicing line respectively and the support substrate are bonded to position the trench from above the chip ring to the inside of the dicing line. In the method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, furthermore, the semiconductor substrate and the support substrate which are bonded to each other are subjected to dicing along the dicing line. |
| US08372679B2 |
Process of forming a grid electrode on the front-side of a silicon wafer
A process of forming a front-grid electrode on a silicon wafer having an ARC layer wherein thin parallel fingers lines that form the front side grid electrode are double printed from a metal paste, and the metal pastes used for the first and second printing differ in their content of glass frit plus optionally present other inorganic additives. |
| US08372678B2 |
Counter electrode for solar cell
Disclosed are solar cells and methods for making solar cells. Also disclosed are counter electrodes for solar cells including dye-sensitized and/or nanocrystal-sensitized solar cells. An example counter electrode for a solar cell may include a substrate, a microstructured template disposed on the substrate, and a layer of catalytic material disposed on the microstructured template. |
| US08372669B2 |
Semiconductor light emitting device having patterned substrate and manufacturing method of the same
There is provided a semiconductor light emitting device having a patterned substrate and a manufacturing method of the same. The semiconductor light emitting device includes a substrate; a first conductivity type nitride semiconductor layer, an active layer and a second conductivity type nitride semiconductor layer sequentially formed on the substrate, wherein the substrate is provided on a surface thereof with a pattern having a plurality of convex portions, wherein out of the plurality of convex portions of the pattern, a distance between a first convex portion and an adjacent one of the convex portions is different from a distance between a second convex portion and an adjacent one of the convex portions. |
| US08372667B2 |
Fiber laser substrate processing
Embodiments of the present invention pertain to substrate processing equipment and methods incorporating light sources which provide independent control of light pulse duration, shape and repetition rate. Embodiments further provide rapid increases and decreases in intensity of illumination. |
| US08372666B2 |
Misalignment correction for embedded microelectronic die applications
The present disclosure relates to the field of integrated circuit packaging and, more particularly, to packages using embedded microelectronic die applications, such a bumpless build-up layer (BBUL) designs. Embodiments of the present description relate to the field of alignment correction of microelectronic dice within the bumpless build-up layer packages. This alignment correction may comprise characterizing the misalignment of each microelectronic die mounted on a carrier and forwarding this characterization, along with data regarding the orientation of the carrier, to processing equipment that can compensate for the misalignment of each microelectronic die. |
| US08372665B2 |
Manufacturing method for semiconductor integrated device
In a chip pick-up process after dicing in an assembly process during manufacture of a semiconductor integrated circuit device it is an important subject to diminish a pick-up defect caused by the reduction in thickness of each chip which is proceeding in quick tempo. Particularly, bending of the chip peripheral portion caused by a peeling operation is very likely to induce cracking and chipping of the chip. In the present invention, to solve these problems, in case of peeling a chip from a dicing tape (adhesive tape) or the like while vacuum-chucking the chip by a chucking collet, the flow rate of a vacuum chucking system in the chucking collet is monitored to check a bent state of the chip before complete separation of the first chip from the adhesive tape. |
| US08372660B2 |
Quantitative analyzing method
This invention discloses an analyzing method for detecting a specific analyte in a fluid sample. The method comprises the following steps. First, a substrate is provided. The substrate has a channel provided concavely on an upper surface thereof. The channel comprises a first area, a second area and a third area, and these three areas are connected sequentially. Each of the second and the third areas comprises a nitrocellulose layers containing a reaction material and formed at the bottom thereof. The nitrocellulose layer of the third area can absorb a fixed volume of the fluid sample. Second, the fluid sample is applied to the first area and delivered by the second area and then to the third area. Finally, the reaction material reacts with the specific analyte in the fluid sample to produce a signal for detection. |
| US08372657B2 |
Microfluidic system for detecting a biological entity in a sample
According to various embodiments, a microfluidic system for detecting a biological entity in a sample volume is provided. The microfluidic system may include: a chamber configured to receive the sample volume, wherein the chamber includes a detection region for detecting the biological entity; a first port in fluid communication with the chamber; and a second port including a filter in fluid communication with the chamber; and wherein a fluid provided to the first port or the second port flows between the first port and the second port through the chamber. |
| US08372653B2 |
Mass tag reagents for simultaneous quantitation and identification of small molecules
A molecule identification and quantitation method is provided wherein a mass tag is conjugated to an analyte and the signature ion of the mass tag remains attached to the analyte after tandem mass spectrometry fragmentation (MS-MS or MS2). Rather than losing the signature ion, a mass-balance part of the structure can be lost as a charge neutral group under tandem mass spectrometry fragmentation. The signature ion can be used for quantitation and, upon further fragmentation, can also provide ion-signals characteristic of the analyte and useful in identifying the analyte. In some embodiments, the ion-signals generated from a third mass spectrometry fragmentation (MS3) can be compared with a known mass spectrum, for example, from a look-up table, from a library, or from a database, to provide an unambiguous identification of the analyte. |
| US08372651B2 |
Method of monitoring a surfactant in a microelectronic process by absorbance
A method of monitoring a surfactant in a microelectronic process is disclosed. Specifically, the monitoring of a surfactant occurs by studying the absorbance of a sample collected from a microelectronic process. |
| US08372649B2 |
End-capped bipyridine compound, process for preparation thereof and process for selective detection of cyanide anions therewith
The present invention describes the development of a end-capped bipyridine compound having formula A and the zinc complex having formula B. The assay having formula 1 can be used to estimate and quantify the amount of zinc ions by monitoring the fluorescence changes. The assay with formula 1 can be use to image and detect Zn2+ ions in MCF7 cell lines. The zinc complex of formula 2 and 4 can be used as a fluorescent sensor for cyanide anions using analyte replacement protocol. The assay with formula 2 is selective only to cyanide anions even in the presence of other competing anions. The assay with formula 3 having bright green solid state emission is used for the preparation of formula 4. The orange fluorescent powder of assay with formula 4 is used for the selective detection of CN− ions in aqueous solution. |
| US08372647B2 |
Method of diagnosing pancreatic cancer with the use of N-binding type sugar chains
The present invention provides novel markers for diagnosing pancreatic cancer, and methods for determining if a subject has pancreatic cancer utilizing the markers, etc. The methods involve comparing mass-spectrometric peaks of certain sugar chains, obtained from patients' blood and determining if there is a significant decrease in peak intensity, compared with corresponding peaks from patients without pancreatic cancer. |
| US08372645B2 |
Therapeutic composition with a botulinum neurotoxin
The present invention pertains to pharmaceutical compositions which comprise a botulinum neurotoxin from Clostridium botulinum, the neurotoxin being free of the complexing proteins naturally present in the botulinum neurotoxin complex or being chemically modified or being modified by genetic manipulation. Moreover the pharmaceutical compositions of the instant invention have good stability and are advantageously formulated free of human serum albumin. |
| US08372644B2 |
Method for growing adult cells
A method for growing adult cells includes harvesting a tissue sample from a subject and breaking the tissue sample into fragments. The fragments are placed into a culture vessel, and at least some of the fragments are induced to adhere to the culture vessel. The fragments are supplied with nutrients so that adult cells contained therein divide and grow. |
| US08372642B2 |
Differentiation of pluripotent cells
Provided herein are methods for the in vitro maintenance, expansion, culture, and/or differentiation of pluripotent cells, such as human embryonic stem cells (hESC) or induced pluripotent cells (iPSC), into hematopoietic precursor cells or endothelial cells. The pluripotent cells may be maintained and differentiated under defined conditions; thus, the use of mouse feeder cells or serum is not required in certain embodiments for the differentiation of the pluripotent cells into hematopoietic precursor cells or endothelial cells. The resulting hematopoietic precursor cells may be further differentiated into various myeloid or lymphoid lineages. |
| US08372641B2 |
Marrow stem cell and pancreatic β cell fusion cell useful for the treatment of diabetes
Methods described include methods of treating T1DM, the method comprising delivering a therapeutic amount of β-MSC to a subject in need thereof. Further disclosed are fusion cells comprising and MSC and a second cell wherein the nuclei of the MSC and the second cell are not fused in the fusion cell. |
| US08372639B2 |
Anti-human α9 integrin antibody and use thereof
The present invention relates to an anti-human α9 integrin antibody. More particularly, the present invention relates to: a monoclonal antibody, a chimeric antibody, a humanized antibody and a human antibody that specifically recognize human α9 integrin; a hybridoma cell that produces the monoclonal antibody; a method for producing the monoclonal antibody; a method for producing the hybridoma cell; a therapeutic agent comprising the anti-human α9 integrin antibody; a diagnostic agent comprising the human α9 integrin antibody; and a method for screening for a compound that inhibits the activity of human α9 integrin. |
| US08372638B2 |
Combinations of proteins to enhance viability of stem cells and their progenitors before transplantation
Embodiments of the present invention include the use of placental alkaline phosphatase alone or in combination with human transferrin and, optionally, human α1-antitrypsin to enhance the proliferation and survival of transplanted stem cells and stem cell-derived progenitor cells. |
| US08372635B2 |
Circular permutant GFP insertion folding reporters
Provided are methods of assaying and improving protein folding using circular permutants of fluorescent proteins, including circular permutants of GFP variants and combinations thereof. The invention further provides various nucleic acid molecules and vectors incorporating such nucleic acid molecules, comprising polynucleotides encoding fluorescent protein circular permutants derived from superfolder GFP, which polynucleotides include an internal cloning site into which a heterologous polynucleotide may be inserted in-frame with the circular permutant coding sequence, and which when expressed are capable of reporting on the degree to which a polypeptide encoded by such an inserted heterologous polynucleotide is correctly folded by correlation with the degree of fluorescence exhibited. |
| US08372631B2 |
System for harvesting algae in continuous fermentation
The present invention is a system for harvesting algae in continuous fermentation. There is a harvester including a main moving belt, a plurality of rollers, and a motor for driving the main moving belt. There is a reactor tank and a vacuum extractor for applying a vacuum over a width of the main moving belt to extract biomass and to dry the main moving belt. The main moving belt has one end in the reactor tanks and another end extended into the vacuum extractor. The algae contained in the reactor tank is collected for further processing, including oil extraction. With algae harvested in the large-scale manner of the present invention, a more efficient oil extraction method can be used because the concentration, temperature, and pressure can be more easily controlled. |
| US08372628B2 |
Sulfur-oxidizing bacteria and their use in bioleaching processes for sulfured copper minerals
The present invention is related to an isolated chemolithotrophic bacterium belonging to species Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans named Licanantay, deposited in Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen and Zellkulturen GmbH-DSMZ with number DSM 17318, and its use in pure form or in mixtures that contains it for bioleaching processes of minerals or sulfured metallic species concentrates. This Licanantay strain DSM 17318 has sulfur-oxidizing activity in both primary and secondary sulfured minerals, especially in the case of chalcopyrite, covellite, bornite, chalcocite, enargite and tennantite. |
| US08372626B2 |
L-arabinose fermenting yeast
An L-arabinose utilizing yeast strain is provided for the production of ethanol by introducing and expressing bacterial araA, araB and araD genes. L-arabinose transporters are also introduced into the yeast to enhance the uptake of arabinose. The yeast carries additional genomic mutations enabling it to consume L-arabinose, even as the only carbon source, and to produce ethanol. A yeast strain engineered to metabolize arabinose through a novel pathway is also disclosed. Methods of producing ethanol include utilizing these modified yeast strains. |
| US08372622B2 |
Modified vaccinia virus ankara for the vaccination of neonates
The invention relates inter alia to a method for inducing a long-term protection in an animal against foreign antigens and tumor antigens comprising the step of administering to the animal at least one factor selected from type I interferons and Flt-3, and to a method for inducing a long-term increase of the number of dendritic cells in an animal comprising the step of administering to the animal a factor selected from type I interferon and Flt-3 and to a method of inducing or enhancing the maturation and/or for the activation of the immune system of an animal comprising the step of administering to the animal a factor selected from type I interferon and Flt-3. |
| US08372621B2 |
Methods and materials for the production of shikimic acid
Novel enzymes and novel enzymatic pathways for the pyruvate-based synthesis of shikimate or at least one intermediate thereto or derivative thereof, nucleic acids encoding the enzymes, cells transformed therewith, and kits containing said enzymes, cells, or nucleic acid. A KDPGal aldolase is used to perform condensation of pyruvate with D-erythrose 4-phosphate to form 3-deoxy-D-arabino-heptulosonate-7-phosphate (DAHP); a 3-dehydroquinate synthase is used to convert the DAHP to 3-dehydroquinate (DHQ); DHQ dehydratase can then convert DHQ to the key shikimate intermediate, 3-dehydroshikimate. |
| US08372619B2 |
High fidelity restriction endonucleases
Compositions and methods are provided for enzymes with altered properties that involve a systematic approach to mutagenesis and a screening assay that permits selection of the desired proteins. Embodiments of the method are particularly suited for modifying specific properties of restriction endonucleases such as star activity. The compositions include restriction endonucleases with reduced star activity as defined by an overall fidelity index improvement factor. |
| US08372617B2 |
β-galactoside-α2,6-sialyltransferase, a gene encoding thereof, and a method for enhancing enzyme activity
The present invention provides an extremely useful and novel β-galactoside-α2,6-sialyltransferase having an optimum reaction pH in a neutral to alkaline range, and a nucleic acid encoding the sialyltransferase. The present invention further provides a vector carrying a nucleic acid encoding the sialyltransferase, and a host cell transformed with the vector, as well as a method for producing a recombinant β-galactoside-α2,6-sialyltransferase. |
| US08372614B2 |
Ethanol production from solid citrus processing waste
Method for producing ethanol from solid citrus waste by reducing the concentration of limonene in citrus waste to allow fermentation. In one embodiment ground solid citrus waste is partially hydrolyzed and pasteurized by heating using a jet cooker and then injected into a flash tank to remove limonene. The heated citrus waste is then cooled, hydrolyzed with enzymes and fermented to ethanol. The remaining solids and liquids may be processed further to yield other byproducts. More particularly, the solids may be dried and pressed for use in cattle feed and the liquids may be further fermented or processed to yield additional ethanol, acetate, galacturonic acid monomers and polymers, five carbon sugars and other products. |
| US08372604B2 |
Compositions and methods for reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)
The present invention is directed to compositions and methods useful for the amplification of nucleic acid molecules by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Specifically, the invention provides compositions and methods for the amplification of nucleic acid molecules in a simplified one- or two-step RT-PCR procedure using combinations of reverse transcriptase and thermostable DNA polymerase enzymes in conjunction with sulfur-containing molecules or acetate-containing molecules (or combinations of such sulfur-containing molecules and acetate-containing molecules), and optionally bovine serum albumin. The invention thus facilitates the rapid and efficient amplification of nucleic acid molecules and the detection and quantitation of RNA molecules. The invention also is useful in the rapid production and amplification of cDNAs which may be used for a variety of industrial, medical and forensic purposes. |
| US08372601B2 |
Compositions and methods for the synthesis of APPA-containing peptides
The disclosure of the present application provides polypeptide sequences and nucleotide sequences coding for the polypeptide sequences of proteins used in the production of APPA-containing peptides. In at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, an isolated nucleic acid is disclosed which comprises a nucleotide sequence encoding a polypeptide having a sequence identity of 60 percent or greater to an amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOS: 2-13, and 15-23. |
| US08372598B2 |
Salt selection of microbial mutants to increase bioproduct tolerance, titer, or osmotic shock tolerance
Methods are provided for selecting microbial strains with improved properties for fermentation and/or bioproduct production. A salt selection is employed to identify mutants with improved bioproduct tolerance, titer, or osmotic tolerance relative to a microbial strain from which they were derived. |
| US08372594B2 |
Secreted phospholipase A2 biomarkers for arthritis
The present invention relates to the use of protein expression profiles of sPLA2 isoforms with clinical relevance to osteoarthritis (OA). In particular, the invention provides methods for diagnosing OA or determining risk factors for development of OA based on expression of sPLA2-IIA. |
| US08372593B2 |
Method for detecting misfolded proteins and prions
The invention provides methods and kits for detecting conformationally altered proteins, such as prions or other proteins associated with disease states, in a sample. The methods comprise selectively capturing and separating complexes of peptide and conformationally altered protein from substances that interfere with detection of such complexes, and preferably amplification of the detection signal b addition of a second double-labeled peptide. |
| US08372592B2 |
High resolution label free analysis of cellular properties
The invention provides methods of detecting a change in cell growth patterns. |
| US08372585B2 |
Electronic sensing for nucleic acid sequencing
Methods for sequencing nucleic acids are presented. Sequencing is accomplished through the detection of a redox active species that is indicative of nucleotide incorporation. In embodiments of the invention, an electrochemical signal indicative of nucleotide incorporation is amplified through cycling before it is detected. Arrays are provided that are capable of massively parallel nucleic acid sequence determination. |
| US08372580B2 |
BRCA1 function-based cellular assays
Assays using binding studies involving function of BRCA1a protein have use for diagnosis and for evaluation of possible tumorogenicity of agents, particularly estrogenic agents. The assays do not rely on use of a probe for only specific sequences, but on effects of known and unknown or not previously studied sequences (consequence of genetic changes) or posttranslational modification of BRCA1 proteins (as a consequence of epigenetic changes) as seen in hereditary and sporadic cancers. |
| US08372578B2 |
Gray-tone lithography using optical diffusers
A method of: directing an exposing light through an optical diffuser; directing the diffused light though a photomask having transparent areas corresponding to a gray-tone pattern; directing the masked light onto a photoresist material on a substrate; developing the photoresist to produce a three dimensional structure in the photoresist. |
| US08372568B2 |
Gelatin release layer and methods for using the same
The disclosed embodiments are directed to a method for removing photoreceptor coatings from a rigid substrate, wherein the photoreceptor coatings disposed over a substrate of an electrophotographic photoreceptor, in order to recover it for re-use in photoreceptor manufacturing. More specifically, the invention discloses a photoreceptor substrate recovery methodology that includes the creation of an inner release layer over the substrate and followed by subjecting the rejected or used electrophotographic photoreceptor to a step of soaking in a non-toxic and environmentally-friendly stripping solution that separates the coatings from the substrate. |
| US08372564B2 |
Reflective mask, reflective mask blank and method of manufacturing reflective mask
A reflective mask of this invention includes a multilayer reflective film (13), on a substrate (11), having a structure in which high refractive index layers and low refractive index layers are alternately laminated, and an absorbing film (15) stacked on the multilayer reflective film (13) and adapted to absorb EUV exposure light. The absorbing film (15) is a phase shift film that allows the EUV exposure light having passed therethrough and reflected by the multilayer reflective film to have a predetermined phase difference with respect to the EUV exposure light directly incident on and reflected by the multilayer reflective film. A plurality of the layers or all the layers of the multilayer reflective film (13) in a blind area are removed from its upper layer. |
| US08372557B2 |
Gas diffusion layer
A carbon-fiber-based gas diffusion layer (GDL) for use in polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells (FC) having structured hydrophilic properties, wherein materials with hydrophilic properties and selected from the group of metal oxides in an average domain size of 0.5 to 80 μm are present as hydrophilic wicks in the gas diffusion layer. |
| US08372554B2 |
Hydride fuel-cell cooler and condensate cooler for aircraft
A cooling system for cooling a fuel-cell system on board an aircraft, in one example, includes a hydrogen accumulator, a connecting device coupling the hydrogen accumulator, with an external cooling system for dissipating heat arising upon charging of the hydrogen accumulator. The hydrogen accumulator cools down upon removal of hydrogen, because of which cooling of a condenser occurs. The cooling system need not utilize a secondary cooling loop for condenser cooling. |
| US08372553B2 |
Fuel cell voltage unit for detecting a failed plate connection
A fuel cell system that includes a cell voltage monitoring sub-system that measures the cell voltage of each cell in a fuel cell stack and provides an indication of a low performing or failed cell. The fuel cell system uses the cell voltage monitoring sub-system to determine if one of the wires connected to a bipolar plate in the stack is broken or has otherwise failed. The cell voltage monitoring sub-system uses differential amplifiers to compare the positive side voltage and the negative side voltage of a cell to determine if the cell voltage is low or the cell is failing. By looking at the outputs of two differential amplifiers in the cell voltage monitoring sub-system, it can be determined whether adjacent cells provide an indication of both cells failing, which would indicate that a connection wire has failed. |
| US08372548B2 |
Organic electrolytic solution and lithium battery employing the same
An organic electrolytic solution including: a lithium salt; an organic solvent; and a compound represented by Formula 1 below, and a lithium battery including the organic electrolytic solution. In Formula 1: R1, R2, and R3 may be each independently a hydrogen atom, a C1 to C10 alkyl group, a C6 to C10 cycloalkyl group, a C6 to C10 aryl group, a C2 to C10 alkenyl group, or a C2 to C10 alkynyl group; X is C (R2) or nitrogen; and n is an integer ranging from 1 to 5. |
| US08372547B2 |
Non-aqueous electrolytic solution
There is provided a non-aqueous electrolytic solution assuring good solubility of an electrolyte salt and having enough cell characteristics (charge and discharge cycle characteristic, discharge capacity, and the like), and the non-aqueous electrolytic solution comprises a solvent for dissolving an electrolyte salt comprising (A) at least one fluorine-containing solvent selected from the group consisting of fluorine-containing ethers and fluorine-containing carbonates, (B) a non-fluorine-containing cyclic carbonate and (C) a chain ester represented by the formula (C): R1COOR2, wherein R1 is an alkyl group having 2 to 4 carbon atoms; R2 is an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms or a fluorine-containing alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and (II) an electrolyte salt. |
| US08372542B2 |
Tin and tin-zinc plated substrates including Cu3Sn and Cu6Sn5 to improve Ni-Zn cell performance
An improved Ni—Zn cell with a negative electrode substrate plated with tin or tin and zinc during manufacturing has a reduced gassing rate. The copper or brass substrate is electrolytic cleaned, activated, electroplated with a matte surface to a defined thickness range, pasted with zinc oxide electrochemically active material, and baked. The defined plating thickness range of 40-80 μIn maximizes formation of an intermetallic compound Cu3Sn that helps to suppress the copper diffusion from under plating layer to the surface and eliminates formation of an intermetallic compound Cu6Sn5 during baking to provide adequate corrosion resistance during battery operation. |
| US08372541B2 |
Non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery
A non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery includes a positive electrode containing lithium-iron phosphate, and a negative electrode containing a lithium-titanium composite oxide and a lithium composite oxide which is different from the lithium-titanium composite oxide. The lithium composite oxide has a potential of 2.5 to 3V vs. Li/Li+ at a lithium absorption/desorption and a spinel-type crystal structure. |
| US08372540B2 |
Electrode active material for secondary electrochemical cell
The invention provides an electrochemical cell which includes a first electrode having a electrode active material, a second electrode which is a counter electrode to the first electrode, and an electrolyte. The positive electrode active material is represented by the general formula AaVbNbc(PO4)3, wherein 0 |
| US08372539B2 |
Uniform graphite plate
A substrate useful for the formation of, inter alia, a flow field plate for a proton exchange membrane fuel cell, the substrate formed of at least one resin-impregnated sheet of compressed particles of exfoliated graphite comprising two major surfaces, the substrate having an active area with flow field channels thereon, the sheet of compressed particles of exfoliated graphite having a local web thickness in at least about 50% of its active area that is no more than about 55% greater than the minimum web thickness of the active area of the substrate. |
| US08372537B2 |
Battery with a molded in-front terminal
A battery with a threaded battery terminal for accommodating a threaded terminal bolt is provided. The threaded battery terminal includes a bushing having an axial bore extending between an open end and a closed end; and an insert having a longitudinal axis and a threaded opening extending along the longitudinal axis between an open end and a back wall. The terminal bolt is threadably received in the threaded opening and the back wall of the insert has sufficient strength to cause an overlong bolt to break upon continued threaded insertion subsequent to the bolt contacting the back wall. |
| US08372532B2 |
Secondary battery module and composite article thereof
A composite article for dissipating thermal energy from a secondary battery cell includes a first graphite layer, a second graphite layer spaced away from and arranged parallel to the first graphite layer, and a metal layer sandwiched between and disposed in contact with each of the first graphite layer and the second graphite layer. The composite article has a thermal conductivity of greater than or equal to about 1,200 W/mK and an electrical conductivity of greater than or equal to about 10,000 S/cm. A secondary battery module includes the composite article and a secondary battery cell having a length and an average measurable temperature along the length during operation of the secondary battery module. The composite article is disposed adjacent and in contact with the secondary battery cell to thereby dissipate thermal energy from the secondary battery cell during operation of the secondary battery module. |
| US08372524B2 |
Coated article
A coated article is described. The coated article includes a stainless steel substrate, a bonding layer formed on the substrate, and a hard layer formed on the bonding layer. The bonding layer is a nickel-chromium alloy layer. The hard layer is a nickel-chromium-boron-carbon-nitrogen layer. The mass percentages of carbon and nitrogen within the hard layer are gradually increased from the area near the bonding layer to the area away from the bonding layer. A method for making the coated article is also described. |
| US08372519B2 |
Composition and method for treating wood
The present invention relates to a composition in the form of a mixture comprising at least two components a) and b), wherein component a) comprises at least one mono and/or multifunctional thiol and component b) comprises at least one mono and/or multifunctional ene, wherein the molar ratio between the thiol groups and the ene groups is 1:0.1 to 1:100. Further, the invention relates to an impregnated wood element, wherein it is obtainable by impregnating a wood element with a composition according to the present invention or a mixture of the components of the composition in batch form (multi-component) according to the present invention and thereafter curing the composition or the mixture. The invention also relates to a method of impregnating a wood element. |
| US08372515B2 |
Silane coating compositions containing silicon-based polyether copolymers, methods for coating metal surfaces and articles made therefrom
A silane coating composition containing a silicon-based copolymer, a method for treating the surfaces of a metal such as steel, zinc-coated steels, or aluminum, to provide for the formation of a uniform conversion and/or passivation coating which increases the corrosion resistance of bare or painted metal and/or the adhesion properties of the metal, along with a metal having a conversion and/or passivation coating applied thereto are disclosed. Methods of the invention include contacting the requisite metal surface with an aqueous solution of a silane compound and a silicon-based polyether copolymer. |
| US08372504B2 |
Transparent composite compound
Provided is a non-hydrolytic transparent composite composition having excellent transparency and heat resistance, and a low thermal expansion coefficient. Particularly, the transparent composite composition includes a glass filler dispersed in a crosslinked transparent resin produced by a non-hydrolytic reaction. The non-hydrolytic transparent siloxane resin is a resin having Si—O (siloxane) bonds, a resin having at least one kind of heterometal bonds, including Si—O bonds, or the resin further containing other ingredients. When the transparent siloxane resin produced by a non-hydrolytic reaction forms a composite in combination with the glass filler, the composite realizes high transparency and heat resistance, as well as a low thermal expansion coefficient. Therefore, the transparent composite composition is useful as a substrate for thin film transistor (TFT) devices, display devices and optical devices. |
| US08372502B2 |
Structures for containing liquid materials and maintaining part alignment during assembly operations
Components may be interconnected using liquid materials such as liquid adhesive and solder. To prevent undesired movement between the components during the assembly process and to prevent the liquid material from flowing into undesired areas, an attachment and dam structure may be provided. The structure may be formed from a substrate such as a flexible polymer film coated with adhesive. When interposed between first and second components, the structure attaches the first and second components and prevents movement between the first and second components. The structure may have one or more edges adjacent to the liquid material to block the liquid material from flowing while the liquid material is in its liquid state. Once the components have been connected, the liquid material can be solidified. |
| US08372500B2 |
Flexible VCD having domed center and method of making thereof
A Flexible VCD Having Domed Center and Method of Making Thereof is disclosed. The disc will has a flat data storage section of its substrate that is less than 0.7 millimeters thick, while the central region of the disc is defined by a dome structure adjacent to the spindle aperture that is of standard digital disc thickness. The disc is thin enough such that its substrate is flexible. The dome structure is shaped to provide the widest compatibility with player/recorders, as well as with disc printing systems. Disc versions are available that provide conical dome structures, as well as slivered dome structures of both conical and rectangular cross-section. The method for manufacturing the discs simply requires the replacement of the conventional stamper holder with a stamper holding having a non-flat face. |
| US08372497B2 |
Silicone coatings on air bags
Air bags which are used for safety purposes to protect occupants of vehicles such as automobiles are described together with a process for coating air bags and air bag fabrics with silicone rubber compositions. In particular the invention relates to silicone rubber coatings which cure by hydrosilylation and an air bag coated with an elastomeric coating which is the cured product of a silicone composition comprising an organopolysiloxane (A) having aliphatically unsaturated hydrocarbon or hydrocarbonoxy substituents, an organosilicon crosslinker having at least 3 silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms, a catalyst able to promote the reaction of the aliphatically unsaturated hydrocarbon or hydrocarbonoxy substituents with Si—H groups and a reinforcing filler, wherein the organopolysiloxane (A) comprises a branched organopolysiloxane (A1) consisting of: (i) one or more Q units of the formula (SiO4/2) and (ii) from 15 to 8000 D units of the formula Rb2SiO2/2 which units (i) and (ii) may be inter-linked in any appropriate combination, and (i{umlaut over (υ)}) M units of the formula RaRb2SiO1/2 wherein each Ra substituent is selected from the group consisting of an alkyl group having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms and an alkynyl group having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, at least three Ra substituents in the branched siloxane being alkenyl or alkynyl units, and each Rb substituent is selected from the group consisting of an alkyl group having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 6 carbon atoms, an aryl group, an alkoxy group, an acrylate group and a methacrylate group. |
| US08372492B2 |
Pressure-sensitive adhesive optical film and image display
A pressure-sensitive adhesive optical film of the present invention comprises: an optical film comprising a transparent base film and a discotic liquid crystal layer on one side of the transparent base film; and a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer that is provided on the discotic liquid crystal layer, wherein the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer is made from a pressure-sensitive adhesive containing an acrylic polymer comprising an alkyl(meth)acrylate (a1) and a ring structure-containing (meth)acrylate (a2) as monomer units and having a weight average molecular weight of 1,000,000 to 3,000,000, and a crosslinking agent. The pressure-sensitive adhesive optical film has durability and can be prevented from causing display unevenness in a peripheral portion of a display screen. |
| US08372491B2 |
Method for cold plasma treatment of plastic bottles and device for Implementing Same
The present invention relates to a method for treating plastic bottles comprising an operation for cold plasma sterilization with non-germicidal gasses and/or an operation for the cold plasma deposition of a diffusion barrier layer, said method being characterized in that said cold plasma delivers adjustable nonthermal energy to the entire inside surface of the bottle, said cold plasma being generated either through a distributed propagation of microwaves having a maximum intensity in the vicinity of said surface or by a hollow cathode system adapted to the bottle and supplied with pulsed DC and/or RF voltage. The invention also relates to the devices for implementing the method. |
| US08372489B2 |
Method for directional deposition using a gas cluster ion beam
A method for depositing material on a substrate is described. The method comprises directionally depositing a thin film on one or more surfaces of a substrate using a gas cluster ion beam (GCIB) formed from a source of precursor to the thin film, wherein the deposition occurs on surfaces oriented substantially perpendicular to the direction of incidence of the GCIB, and deposition is substantially avoided on surfaces oriented substantially parallel to the direction of incidence. |
| US08372487B2 |
Carbon nanotube device and manufacturing method of the same
After forming an opening, a resist film is formed on the entire surface and a resist pattern is formed by patterning the resist film. The shape of the resist pattern is such that it covers one side of the bottom of the opening. As a result, a Si substrate is exposed only in one part of the opening. Then, using the resist pattern as a mask, a catalytic layer is formed on the bottom of the opening. Then, the resist pattern is removed. Carbon nanotubes are grown on the catalytic layer. At this time, since the catalytic layer is formed on only one side of the bottom of the opening, the Van der Waals force biased towards that side works horizontally on the growing carbon nanotubes. Therefore, the carbon nanotubes are attracted towards the nearest side of the SiO2 film and grow biased towards that side. |
| US08372486B2 |
Lubricated metal article
Liquid hydrofluorocarbons provide low corrosivity lubrication of metallic surfaces especially at elevated temperatures. |
| US08372485B2 |
Gallium ink and methods of making and using same
A gallium ink is provided, comprising, as initial components: a gallium component comprising gallium; a stabilizing component; an additive; and, a liquid carrier; wherein the gallium ink is a stable dispersion. Also provided are methods of preparing the gallium ink and for using the gallium ink in the preparation of semiconductor films (e.g., in the deposition of a CIGS layer for use in photovoltaic devices). |
| US08372480B2 |
Coater/developer, method of coating and developing resist film, and computer readable storing medium
A transfer flow is produced in accordance with a process recipe of a process to be carried out. In the transfer flow, a type of modules listed in accordance with a substrate transfer order is associated with a necessary staying time from when the substrate is transferred into a module by a substrate transfer unit to when the substrate is ready to be transferred back to the substrate transfer unit after the corresponding process is finished. A cycle limiting time is determined to be the longest necessary transfer cycle time among those obtained by dividing the necessary staying time by the number of the modules mounted in the coater/developer. The number of the modules to be used is determined to be a value obtained by dividing the necessary staying time by the cycle limiting time or a nearest integer to which the value is raised. |
| US08372478B1 |
Method for powder coating and decorative printing
A method is provided for surface treating a substrate utilizing powder coating so that the substrate can be adorned with a decorative pattern and/or color, and can have a durable, aesthetically appealing finish. The decorative pattern can be applied via transfer printing processes, for example, by a sublimation process or a hydrographic process. The method optionally can be used to produce a visually perceivable transition between a decorative pattern, for example, a camouflage pattern, and a generally solid color on the substrate. The transition can be gradual, so that the decorative pattern appears to fade into the generally solid color to provide an appealing visual effect on a product. The method can be used to surface treat a variety of products, for example, archery products and/or firearm products. |
| US08372477B2 |
Polymeric trap with adsorbent
A method of adhering a particulate material, such as a hydrocarbon adsorbent material and/or a catalytic material, to a plastic surface, and products comprising the adhered material are disclosed. |
| US08372475B2 |
Method for preparing cross-linked ceramic-coated separator containing ionic polymer, ceramic-coated separator prepared by the method, and lithium secondary battery using the same
The present invention provides method for preparing a cross-linked ceramic-coated separator containing an ionic polymer, a ceramic-coated separator prepared by the method, and a lithium secondary battery using the same. According to preferred methods for preparing a cross-linked ceramic-coated separator, a coating material containing ceramic particles for improving thermal and mechanical characteristics, a functional inorganic compound for improving cycle characteristics and high rate characteristics of a battery, and an ionic polymer for bonding the ceramic particles and the functional inorganic compound on a porous membrane substrate is coated on the porous membrane substrate and subjected to chemical cross-linking. |
| US08372472B2 |
Forming photovoltaic conductive features from multiple inks
Photovoltaic conductive features and processes for forming photovoltaic conductive features are described. The process comprises (a) providing a substrate comprising a passivation layer disposed on a silicon layer; (b) depositing a surface modifying material onto at least a portion of the passivation layer; (c) depositing a composition comprising at least one of metallic nanoparticles comprising a metal or a metal precursor to the metal onto at least a portion of the substrate; and (d) heating the composition such that it forms at least a portion of a photovoltaic conductive feature in electrical contact with the silicon layer, wherein at least one of the composition or the surface modifying material etches a region of the passivation layer. When the surface modifying material is a UV-curable material, the process comprises the additional step of curing the UV-curable material. |
| US08372470B2 |
Apparatus and methods for controlled growth and assembly of nanostructures
A method and apparatus providing controlled growth and assembly of nanostructures is presented. A first substrate including at least one reaction site is provided. Energy is provided to the reaction site and a reaction species is introduced to the first substrate. A nanostructure is grown from the reaction site. The growth process of the nanostructure is controlled while continuously monitoring the properties of at least one of the nanostructure and the at least one reaction site, and by controlling process variables based on the monitored properties of the nanostructure and the at least one reaction site. |
| US08372467B2 |
Universal potato chip cooker
Potato chip cooking process and apparatus includes controlled cooking of potato slices from the initial to the final cooking stages. Slices are deposited in hot cooking oil to develop a slice pack which is carried along a cooking path during which the pack is agitated and mixed by paddle means or tumbled so that the individual slices receive maximum contact with the cooking medium. The cooking path may be divided into one or more stages in each of which the cooking times and temperatures are selected and maintained to produce potato chips of different styles having a final moisture content in the range of 1.2% to 2%. Further disclosed are apparatus that includes temperature and oil circulation controls for the oil heat exchangers dedicated to each stage of a cooking protocol. A multiplicity of variable rate, rotatable paddle wheel assemblies are positioned along the cooking path for thorough agitation of the potato pack encouraging good oil contact with the individual slices and consistent, chip-to-chip final moisture content. |
| US08372458B2 |
Continuous emulsification process for process cheese type and equipment therefor, and continuous production method for process cheese type and equipment therefor
Objects of the present invention are to provide a continuous emulsification process and equipment therefor in which exact viscosity is measured inline and production conditions are controlled automatically, and a continuous production method for process cheese type and equipment therefor. The present invention provides a continuous production method for process cheese type in which process cheese type ingredients are agitated and emulsified with any agitation intensity by an agitation bar 4 while heating in the vessel which is applied with fixed back pressure, the process cheese type is flowed and held in a holding pipe 7 for a certain period and thereby the process cheese type is cooled, and then the cooled process cheese type is molded and filled and a process cheese type product 13 is produced, wherein a transducer of an oscillating viscometer is immersed in the process cheese type during holding or after cooling such that the transducer is not directly contacted with the process cheese type; and wherein agitation intensity of the agitation device and/or back pressure applied to the vessel is adjusted such that a detected value of the transducer becomes near a target value which is set in advance, and thereby production conditions are controlled automatically so that the viscosity of the process cheese type during holding or after cooling becomes near a target viscosity. |
| US08372454B2 |
Methods of making pomegranate compounds for the treatment of erectile dysfunction
Various processes for producing an extract containing phytochemicals from pomegranates are disclosed. The processes generally comprise providing pomegranate solids, such as the pericarp, inner membrane and seeds; creating a mixture comprising the pomegranate solids in an aqueous solution; adding enzymes to the mixture in an amount sufficient to at least partially degrade the pomegranate solids; heating the mixture to a temperature that permits the maximum rate of catalysis of the enzyme; maintaining the temperature of the heated mixture for a time sufficient to allow at least partial degradation of the pomegranate solids; and removing residual insoluble solid materials from the mixture. Compositions containing the extract may be used as a food product, beverage, pharmaceutical preparations, nutritional supplements, vitamin supplements, food additives, and food supplements. The compositions may also be used for preventing or ameliorating disease conditions by administering an effective amount of the composition to a subject in need thereof. |
| US08372451B2 |
Compositions and methods for treating depression
Disclosed are a novel combination of specific therapeutics selected from S-adenosyl methionine or a salt thereof, folic acid or a metabolite or salt thereof, and one or more omega-3 fatty acids or salts thereof, useful for a variety of conditions, as discussed herein. Methods of treatment include the treatment of neuropsychiatric conditions, such as depression. |
| US08372448B2 |
Method for enhancing the DNA repair process, treating disorders associated with the DNA repair process, enhancing antitumor response and treating disorders associated with anti-tumor response in mammals by administering purified quinic acid and/or carboxy alkyl ester
For use in mammals, methods for enhancing the anti-tumor response and treating disorders associated with anti-tumor response. The methods generally comprise non-topical administration of purified, isolated quinic acid alkyl acid or a carboxy alkyl ester with a non-toxic carrier or diluent. |
| US08372446B2 |
Avian feed composition
The invention herein contemplates an avian feed composition and a method for administering and customizing the feed composition for one or more birds. The feed composition aids in preventing infection and illness including parasitic infestation. |
| US08372433B2 |
Substrate for culture of cardiovascular tissue
The scaffold for culturing a cardiovascular tissue of the present invention is a scaffold for culturing a cardiovascular tissue, which is tubular, and comprises a foamed polymer comprising a bioabsorbable material reinforced with a reinforcing material comprising a bioabsorbable material, the foamed polymer comprising lactide (D, L, DL isomer)-ε-caprolactone copolymer containing lactide (D, L, DL isomer) in a content of 50 to 54 mole % and ε-caprolactone in a content of 50 to 46 mole %, and the reinforcing material being covered with the foamed polymer. |
| US08372430B2 |
Compositions, methods, and kits useful for the alleviation of gastrointestinal effects
Disclosed are compositions, methods, and kits for treating conditions including; ameliorating side effects associated with compounds such as lipase inhibitors; gastrointestinal distress; fecal urgency; obesity; hyperlipidemia; diarrhea; reducing levels of toxic substances; reducing blood cholesterol levels; inducing satiety; effecting weight loss; effecting weight control; and treating, delaying onset and/or preventing Type II diabetes. One embodiment includes compositions for administration to an animal for stiffening lipophilic substances in the gastrointestinal tract. Such stiffening agents have a complete melting point of about 33° C. or greater. Kits comprising the composition are also included. Methods of stiffening lipophilic substances present in the gastrointestinal tract of an animal are also provided. The methods comprise administering a composition comprising a safe and effective amount of a stiffening agent to an animal. The methods also comprise administering a composition comprising a safe and effective amount of a stiffening agent and a safe and effective amount of a lipase inhibitor to an animal. |
| US08372428B2 |
Chewable soft capsule having improved ingestion property and method for producing same
A soft capsule in which a shell is filled with fill material, and the fill material is in a solid or semi-solid form at room temperature. The soft capsule may be a chewable capsule, and the fill material may comprise a low melting point additive. The content of the low melting point additive may be 10% or more with respect to the total weight of the fill material, and may have a melting point of about 20 to 50° C. The low melting point additive may be selected from the group consisting of chocolate base, lard, coconut oil and macrogol (polyethylene glycol) as well as a combination thereof. |
| US08372427B2 |
Therapeutic composition with enhanced endothelium targeting
A composition that includes nanoparticles with binding affinity for platelets, and methods for using this composition to treat vascular disease are disclosed. |
| US08372425B2 |
Fatty acids for use as a medicament
The invention relates to fatty acid stimulation of rectal mucosa initiating the process of defecation, acting as a laxative. Furthermore, the invention relates to the usage of free fatty acids, fatty acid mixtures and fatty acid extracts from marine lipids in pharmaceutical formulations such as suppositories, ointments, tablets and gelatin capsules for treatment and prevention of multiple disorders like constipation, hemorrhoids, bacterial infections (e.g. helicobacter pylori), viral infections (e.g. herpes simplex virus infections) and inflammations, as well as against fissura ani and pruritus ani. |
| US08372420B2 |
Compositions and methods for coating medical implants
Medical implants are provided which release an anthracycline, fluoropyrimidine, folic acid antagonist, podophylotoxin, camptothecin, hydroxyurea, and/or platinum complex, thereby inhibiting or reducing the incidence of infection associated with the implant. |
| US08372419B2 |
Coated implants, their manufacturing and use thereof
The present invention relates to a method of coating of a device, preferably implants, with a substance comprising the steps of (a) contacting said device into a solution of said substrate or substance, and (b) drying said device while being submerged in said solution. The present invention also relates to a packaging container for a device, preferably an implant. Said packaging container being adapted such that said device is coatable within said packaging container. Moreover, the present invention relates to a method of coating the inner surfaces of a packaging container for a device, preferably implants, to be coated by a substance, comprising the steps of (a) siliconizing said inner surfaces of said container using a silicone emulsion, and (b) heat-curing to form a baked-in silicone layer on said inner surfaces of said container. |
| US08372417B2 |
Polymer composite film with barrier functionality
Polymer composite material with barrier functionality, in particular for the use in fumigation methods, comprising at least one base polymer compound and at least one barrier functional layer, wherein the barrier functional layer comprises at least one binder that is cross-linkable and after cross-linking capable of water absorbing and gel-forming. |
| US08372414B2 |
Methods and compositions for treating distress dysfunction and enhancing safety and efficacy of specific medications
The present invention relates to methods and compositions for reducing distress dysfunction, including emotional and physical distress. The invention entails co-administration of at least one Receptor Switcher and at least one Endorphin Enhancer. Additionally, at least one Synergistic Enhance and/or at least one Exogenous Opioid are also administered to enhance or prolong the therapeutic effects. |
| US08372412B2 |
Bioassay and peptides for use therein
The invention provides a bioassay for detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection comprising artificially modified peptide subsequences of the T-cell epitope from M. tuberculosis Ag85B. Particularly preferred peptides have the form: SGGNNSPAX (SEQ ID 26), where X is Methionine (SEQ ID 18), Leucine (SEQ ID 17), Alanine (SEQ ID 15) or Valine (SEQ ID 10) and NNSPAV (SEQ ID 14). The invention also provides peptides for use in such an assay. |
| US08372410B2 |
S. epidermidis antigens
Hyperimmune serum reactive antigens and fragments thereof are disclosed. In addition, methods for isolating such antigens and specific uses thereof, including the treatment of S. epidermidis infections, are disclosed. |
| US08372407B2 |
Chimeric HIV fusion proteins as vaccines
A method for inducing HIV antigen-specific immune responses is disclosed. The method comprises administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of a chimeric fusion protein comprising: (a) a first polypeptidyl region comprising a Pseudomonas Exotoxin A (PE) binding domain and a PE translocation domain, located at the N-terminus of the fusion protein; and (b) a second polypeptidyl region with a fusion peptide of HIV gp120-C1-C5-gp41 with the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 7. A method for inducing neutralizing antibodies against HIV-1 is also disclosed. |
| US08372404B2 |
Anti-C5/C5a antibodies and methods of use
The invention relates to inhibitors that bind to C5 and C5a, but which do not prevent the activation of C5 and do not prevent formation of or inhibit the activity of C5b. One example of such an inhibitor molecule is the monoclonal antibody designated MAb137-26, which binds to a shared epitope of human C5 and C5a. These inhibitors may be used to inhibit the activity of C5a in treating diseases and conditions mediated by excessive or uncontrolled production of C5a. The inhibitor molecules are also useful for diagnostic detection of the presence/absence or amount of C5 or C5a. |
| US08372403B2 |
Humanized anti-factor D antibodies and uses thereof
The invention relates to humanized anti-human Factor D monoclonal antibodies, their nucleic acid and amino acid sequences, the cells and vectors that harbor these antibodies and their use in the preparation of compositions and medicaments for treatment of diseases and disorders associated with excessive or uncontrolled complement activation. These antibodies are useful for diagnostics, prophylaxis and treatment of disease. |
| US08372402B2 |
Mammalian receptor proteins DCRS5; methods of treatment
Nucleic acids encoding mammalian, e.g., primate, receptors, purified receptor proteins and fragments thereof. Antibodies, both polyclonal and monoclonal, are also provided. Methods of using the compositions for both diagnostic and therapeutic utilities are described. |
| US08372400B2 |
Methods of treating disorders using human antibodies that bind human TNFα
Human antibodies, preferably recombinant human antibodies, that specifically bind to human tumor necrosis factor α (hTNFα) are disclosed. These antibodies have high affinity for hTNFα (e.g., Kd=10−8 M or less), a slow off rate for hTNFα dissociation (e.g., Koff=10−3 sec−1 or less) and neutralize hTNFα activity in vitro and in vivo. An antibody of the invention can be a full-length antibody or an antigen-binding portion thereof. The antibodies, or antibody portions, of the invention are useful for detecting hTNFα and for inhibiting hTNFα activity, e.g., in a human subject suffering from a disorder in which hTNFα activity is detrimental. Nucleic acids, vectors and host cells for expressing the recombinant human antibodies of the invention, and methods of synthesizing the recombinant human antibodies, are also encompassed by the invention. |
| US08372399B2 |
Bispecific antibodies and agents to enhance stem cell homing
A composition having a bispecific antibody which binds a stem cell specific antigen and a tissue, differentiated cell or condition associated antigen and an agent that enhances expression of the tissue, differentiated cell or condition associated antigen, is provided. Also provided are methods of using the bispecific antibodies and/or agents to enhance cell therapy. |
| US08372398B2 |
Single domain VHH antibodies against Von Willebrand Factor
The present invention relates to improved Nanobodies™ against von Willebrand Factor (vWF), as well as to polypeptides comprising or essentially consisting of one or more of such Nanobodies. The invention also relates to nucleic acids encoding such Nanobodies and polypeptides; to methods for preparing such Nanobodies and polypeptides; to host cells expressing or capable of expressing such Nanobodies or polypeptides; to compositions comprising such Nanobodies, polypeptides, nucleic acids or host cells; and to uses of such Nanobodies, such polypeptides, such nucleic acids, such host cells or such compositions, in particular for prophylactic, therapeutic or diagnostic purposes, such as the prophylactic, therapeutic or diagnostic purposes. |
| US08372397B2 |
Methods for regulation of stem cells
Methods are provided for increasing stem cells, hematopoietic progenitor/stem cells, mesenchymal progenitor/stem cells, mesodermal progenitor/stem cells, muscle progenitor/stem cells, or neural progenitor/stem cells in vivo in a mammalian subject. Methods are also provided for treating an immune related disease, a mesenchymal/mesoderm degenerative disease, or a neurodegenerative disease in a mammalian subject in need thereof. |
| US08372393B2 |
Method of inducing a CTL response
Disclosed herein are methods for inducing an immunological CTL response to an antigen by sustained, regular delivery of the antigen to a mammal so that the antigen reaches the lymphatic system. Antigen is delivered at a level sufficient to induce an immunologic CTL response in a mammal and the level of the antigen in the mammal's lymphatic system is maintained over time sufficient to maintain the immunologic CTL response. Also disclosed is an article of manufacture for delivering an antigen that induces a CTL response in an animal. |
| US08372390B2 |
Recombiant lentivirus comprising an E2 alphavirus glycoprotein that binds to DC-SIGN
Methods and compositions are provided for delivery of a polynucleotide encoding a gene of interest, typically an antigen, to a dendritic cell (DC). The virus envelope comprises a DC-SIGN specific targeting molecule. The methods and related compositions can be used to treat patients suffering from a wide range of conditions, including infection, such as HIV/AIDS, and various types of cancers. |
| US08372386B2 |
Keratotic plug removing composition
The present invention relates to a keratotic plug remover composition including a polymer compound having a salt-forming group, and (a) an amino-modified silicone and/or (b) a polyoxyalkylene/dimethyl polysiloxane block copolymer, and a sheet for removing keratotic plugs including a nonwoven fabric substrate impregnated with the above composition. The keratotic plug remover composition and the sheet for removing keratotic plugs according to the present invention are enhanced in keratotic plug removing effect without increasing a pain of users when peeling the sheet pack from the skin. |
| US08372382B2 |
Skin moisturizer and age fighting formula
Disclosed is a non-ionic oil-in water emulsion comprising less than 50% by weight of water, a combination of non-ionic emulsifiers and non-ionic emulsion stabilizers, a combination of humectant skin conditioning agents, and a combination of UV absorbing agents. The emulsion can be stable and have an SPF of at least 30. |
| US08372379B2 |
Technetium-99m (I) tricarbonyl complexes with tridentate chelators for myocardium imaging
Chelators of the formulae (I), (II) and (III) and tricarbonyl complexes of radioisotopes of Tc and Re bound to them, for use in myocardial imaging. |
| US08372377B2 |
IM-18 crystalline solid and process for its preparation
The invention concerns a crystalline solid designated IM-18 which has the X-ray diffraction diagram given below. Said solid has a chemical composition expressed by the empirical formula: mXO2:nGeO2:pZ2O3:qR:sF:wH2O, in which R represents one or more organic species, X represents one or more tetravalent element(s) other than germanium, Z represents at least one trivalent element and F is fluorine. |
| US08372372B2 |
Clean bench and method of producing raw material for single crystal silicon
A clean bench comprising a worktable on which polycrystalline silicon is placed, a box part which includes side plates to surround three sides except a front face of a working space above the worktable, and a ceiling plate which covers an upper side of the working space. Supplying holes are formed in the ceiling plate of the box part, which supply clean air onto an upper surface of the worktable. An ionizer is provided, which ionizes the clean air supplied from the supplying holes to the working space and removes static electricity on the worktable. Suction holes are formed in the side plate of the box part, which suction air from the working space. |
| US08372371B2 |
Silicide compositions containing alkali metals and methods of making the same
The invention relates to a method of making alkali metal silicide compositions, and the compositions resulting from the method, comprising mixing an alkali metal with silicon and heating the resulting mixture to a temperature below about 475° C. The resulting compositions do not react with dry O2. Also, the invention relates to sodium silicide compositions having a powder X-ray diffraction pattern comprising at least three peaks with 2Theta angles selected from about 18.2, 28.5, 29.5, 33.7, 41.2, 47.4, and 56.2 and a solid state 23Na MAS NMR spectra peak at about 18 ppm. Moreover, the invention relates to methods of removing a volatile or flammable substance in a controlled manner. Furthermore, the alkali metal silicide compositions of the invention react with water to produce hydrogen gas. |
| US08372370B2 |
Catalytic hydrogenation
A process for hydrogenating halogenated silanes or halogenated germanes. The process comprises hydrogenating a Lewis acid-base pair with addition of H2, hydrogenating halogenated silanes or halogenated germanes with an H−-containing Lewis acid-base pair, and regenerating the Lewis acid-base pair and releasing hydrogen halide. |