最新美国发明专利第2013-03-05期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

Document	Document Title
US08389724B2	Crystalline salt forms of a 5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-1,2,4-triazolo[4,3-a]pyrazine derivative This invention provides a novel crystalline sitagliptin ethanedisulfonate salt having the structure set forth below, and a method for using same to treat type 2 diabetes.
US08389722B2	Adefovir dipivoxil crystalline monohydrate form Adefovir Dipivoxil monohydrate crystalline is disclosed.
US08389721B2	Solubilized topoisomerase poisons The invention provides compounds of formula I: wherein A, B, W, Y, Z, and R1 have any of the meanings defined in the specification and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of formula I, processes for preparing compounds of formula I, intermediates useful for preparing compounds of formula I, and therapeutic methods for treating cancer using compounds of formula I.
US08389718B2	Insecticidal triazines and pyrimidines The present invention describes novel triazines, their related pyrimidines and their use in controlling insects. This invention also includes new synthetic procedures, intermediates for preparing the compounds, pesticide compositions containing the compounds, and methods of controlling insects using the compounds.
US08389716B2	Process for the synthesis of quetiapine The present invention relates to a process for the synthesis of quetiapine. In particular, a process is provided for the synthesis of quetiapine of formula (A) comprising reacting dibenzo[b,f][1,4]thiazepin-11(10H)-one, intermediate (I) with phosphorous oxychloride to give 11-chlorodibenzo[b,f][1,4]thiazepine, intermediate (II) wherein the said reaction of intermediate (I) to intermediate (II) is performed in an organic solvent in the presence of a mixture of an organic base together with an inorganic base.
US08389715B1	Method for forming cooperative binary ionic solids A nanostructured molecular unit and method for forming is described where a cationic porphyrin having an ethanolic substituent species and a metal in the porphyrin cavity is combined with an anionic porphyrin having a sulfonate substituent species and a metal in the porphyrin cavity to form by self-assembly a nanostructured molecular unit with a morphology comprising four dendritic elements connected at a central node.
US08389709B2	Compositions and methods for treating tumors, fibrosis, and pulmonary alveolar proteinosis The present disclosure provides pharmaceutical compositions and methods useful for modulating angiogenesis and for inhibiting metastasis, tumors, pulmonary alveolar proteinosis, and fibrosis in a mammalian tissue. Pharmaceutical compositions and methods include inhibitors of LOXL2 expression and activity, such as shRNA targeting LOXL2.
US08389705B2	Nitrate transport components This invention relates to isolated nucleic acid fragments encoding high affinity nitrate transport components. The invention also relates to the construction of recombinant DNA constructs encoding all or a portion of nitrate transport components, in sense or antisense orientation, wherein expression of the recombinant DNA construct may alter levels of the nitrate transport components in a transformed host cell.
US08389703B1	Ribonucleoside analogs with novel hydrogen bonding patterns This invention relates to nucleoside, nucleotide, and oligonucleotide analogs that incorporate non-standard nucleobase analogs, defined to be those that present a pattern of hydrogen bonds to a paired nucleobase analog in a complementary strand that is different from the pattern presented by adenine, guanine, cytosine, and thymine. The invention is specifically concerned with nucleotide analogs that present the donor-donor-acceptor, hydrogen bonding patterns on pyrimidine analogs, and especially those that are analogs of ribonucleotides, including protected ribonucleotides suitable for phosphoramidite-based synthesis of RNA. The heterocycles on these nucleoside analogs are aminopyridones that have electron withdrawing groups attached to the position analogous to the 5-position of the ring in standard pyrimidines, including nitro, cyano, and carboxylic acid derivatives.
US08389700B2	Agent delivery system capable of selectively releasing an agent The present invention provides a composition for selectively delivering an active agent to a portion of an organism. The composition comprises first and second polymer portions, having first and second functional groups attached as a side-chain thereto, respectively. The first and second functional groups form cross-links between the first and second polymer portions. The cross-links are capable of being broken by a substance of the organism, thereby resulting in release of the active agent. The composition provides a novel means for controlling the selective release of the active agent in the organism.
US08389698B2	Tanaproget derivatives, metabolites, and uses thereof A method of generating synthetic metabolites of tanaproget derivatives thereof is provided. These compounds and methods of using these derivatives for detecting tanaproget metabolites in samples are provided.
US08389697B2	Anthracycline derivative conjugates, process for their preparation and their use as antitumor compounds The present invention relates to conjugates of therapeutically useful anthracyclines with carriers such as polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies, proteins or peptides of natural or synthetic origin; methods for their preparation, pharmaceutical composition containing them and use thereof in treating certain mammalian tumors.
US08389693B2	Stable and soluble antibodies inhibiting TNFα The present invention relates to particularly stable and soluble scFv antibodies and Fab fragments specific for TNFα, which comprise specific light chain and heavy chain sequences that are optimized for stability, solubility, in vitro and in vivo binding of TNFα, and low immunogenicity. Said antibodies are designed for the diagnosis and/or treatment of TNFα-related disorders. The nucleic acids, vectors and host cells for expression of the recombinant antibodies of the invention, methods for isolating them and the use of said antibodies in medicine are also disclosed.
US08389690B2	Antibodies to JTT-1 protein and cells secreting such antibodies Novel cell surface molecules recognized by monoclonal antibodies against a cell surface molecule of lymphocytic cells that play an important role in autoimmune diseases and allergic diseases have been isolated, identified, and analyzed for their functions. The cell surface molecules are expressed specifically in thymocytes, lymphocytes activated by ConA-stimulation, and peripheral blood lymphocytes, and induce cell adhesion. Antibodies against the cell surface molecules significantly ameliorate pathological conditions of autoimmune diseases and allergic diseases.
US08389689B2	Anti-GLP-1R antibodies and their uses The present invention relates to antibodies reactive with GLP-1R, and methods of making and using them.
US08389681B2	Methods for production of proteins The current invention provides methods for producing a polypeptide as inclusion bodies in bacterial host cells. The present methods are carried out by forming a gene construct comprising the genetic sequence encoding a polypeptide operatively linked to that of an inclusion partner protein, such as E. coli thioredoxin or a modified E. coli thioredoxin, such that host cells comprising the gene construct produce the polypeptide as intracellular inclusion bodies. The methods of the present invention facilitate the rapid isolation and purification of recombinant proteins. In addition, the present methods may be useful for producing polypeptides or proteins which are small and are typically difficult to express, as well as those proteins that are toxic to host cells such as E. coli. The present invention also provides plasmids, vectors and host cells to be used in the present invention for production of polypeptides, and methods of production of polypeptides using these vectors and host cells. The invention further provides methods for producing protein molecular weight ladders for use in protein gel electrophoresis, as well as proteins and protein molecular weight ladders produced by these methods.
US08389680B2	Treatment of Aspergillus infections with alpha thymosin peptides A method for treating a human infected with Aspergillus by using thymosin alpha 1 as an immuno-stimulator in activating dendritic cells. The method is particularly useful in preventing an infection by Aspergillus in an immuno-compromised host being treated with a bone marrow transplantation.
US08389679B2	Targeted antimicrobial moieties This invention provides novel targeted antimicrobial compositions. In various embodiments chimeric moieties are provided comprising an antimicrobial peptide attached to a peptide targeting moiety that binds a bacterial strain or species.
US08389677B2	Antioxidant polypeptide and a process for isolation and purification of the same A polypeptide is isolated from Turmeric (Curcuma longa Linn) having molecular weight of about 8,000 Daltons. The polypeptide is highly water-soluble and absolutely non-toxic antioxidant, which is isolated using boiling water extraction. The polypeptide is an excellent antioxidant working at low concentration (of about 80 nM) to quench lipid peroxidation up to 90%. The polypeptide is highly effective against oxidative stress related diseases like arthritis, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, cataract, malaria, bacterial and fungal infectious diseases.
US08389673B2	Aryl ether oligomers and process for making aryl ether oligomers An aryl composition includes aryl ether oligomers. These compositions may be prepared by reaction of one or more dihalobenzenes with one or more dihydroxybenzenes by an Ullman ether reaction. The oligomers may have two or more benzene rings and include terminal halogen, e.g., bromine (Br), or hydroxyl (OH) groups. These oligomers may be brominated to form flame retardant compositions for thermoplastic polymers.
US08389664B2	High molecular weight, random, bisphenol based copoly(phosphonate carbonate)s Disclosed are random copoly(phosphonate carbonate)s with the high molecular weight and narrow molecular weight distribution exhibiting a superior combination of properties compared to prior art.
US08389662B2	Isosorbide-based polycarbonates, method of making, and articles formed therefrom Disclosed herein is a polycarbonate polymer comprising: an isosorbide unit, a polysiloxane unit, and an aliphatic unit different from the isosorbide unit, wherein the isosorbide unit, polysiloxane unit, and aliphatic unit are each carbonate, or a combination of carbonate and ester units, the aliphatic unit different from the isosorbide unit is derived from an aliphatic oligomer having a molecular weight of 900 to 4000, and the calculated bio-content is greater than or equal to 40 weight percent, based on the total weight of the polycarbonate polymer.
US08389660B1	Polyolefins having reduced crystallinity The invention is a novel family of polyolefins characterized by chain-walking defects of the type that add extra backbone carbons per monomer. These polyolefins display a large decrease in crystallinity relative to polyolefins known in the art. Specifically, the reduction in crystallinity is much greater than for earlier polypropylenes with a matched content of stereo or 1-alkene type defects. The claimed polyolefins can be made by a late metal Ni(II) catalyst. The defects in the polyolefin backbone are generated by a chain waling mechanism in which three or more carbons per monomer are added to the polymer backbone instead of two, as in conventional polymerization or copolymerization methods of alpha olefins. The novel polyolefins can be used in applications such as plastic wrapping, thin films, co-extrusion layers or molded parts in the absence of polymer blending or copolymerization. The cost of materials production can be reduced.
US08389656B2	Copolymer and method for producing same A copolymer and method for providing it are provided, which includes a monomer unit represented by the following formula (1) and an olefin unit: wherein: each of A1, A2, A3, and A4 independently represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, an alkyl group, an aralkyl group, an aryl group, a silyl group, a siloxy group, an alkoxy group, an aralkyloxy group, an aryloxy group, an amino group, an amide group, an imide group, or a hydrocarbon thio group; which group may have a substituent; and each of m, n, and k is independently an integer in a range of 2 to 20.
US08389654B2	High melt flow polymer of improved durability for pipe applications The present invention relates to a polymer composition, comprising (i) a polypropylene homopolymer, (ii) a polypropylene random copolymer, prepared by copolymerization of propylene with an olefin comonomer and having an amount of olefin comonomer units of 0.2 to 5 wt %, and (iii) an elastomeric copolymer of propylene and at least one olefin comonomer, the polymer composition having a tensile modulus, determined according to ISO 527-2/1B at 1 mm/min. and 23° C., of at least 1200 MPa.
US08389648B2	Polysiloxane-polycarbonate compositions, method of manufacture, and articles formed therefrom A composition, comprising, based on the total weight of the polymer components in the composition, 1 to 40 wt. % of an aromatic polycarbonate, 30 to 98.8 wt. % of a polysiloxane-polycarbonate block copolymer, and 0.1 to 10 wt. % of a polysiloxane-polyimide block copolymer comprising more than 20 wt. % polysiloxane blocks, based on the total weight of the polysiloxane-polyimide copolymer. The compositions provide articles with low haze, high luminous transmittance, and good hydro-aging properties. The articles can further be formulated to have excellent flame retardance, particularly when KSS is used.
US08389644B2	Functionalized polymer A functionalized polymer includes a directly bonded moiety, which can be located at a terminus of the polymer, defined by the formula —NH—NR1R2 where R1 and R2 independently are substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, aryl, allyl, aralkyl, alkaryl, or alkynyl groups, or together form a substituted or unsubstituted alkylene, alkenylene, cycloalkylene, cycloalkenylene, or arylene group. The functionalized polymer can be provided by reacting a living polymer with a hydrazone. Such polymers can be used in the production of compositions that include particulate fillers.
US08389641B2	Modified diene rubber, production method thereof, and rubber composition and tire using the rubber The present invention provides a modified diene rubber which can be produced economically and improve low-loss properties and wear resistance of a rubber composition made therefrom, as compared with the conventional modified diene rubber. The present invention further provides: a method of producing the modified diene rubber; a rubber composition using the modified diene rubber; and a tire using the rubber composition. Specifically, the present invention provides: a modified diene rubber, produced by first oxidizing diene rubber latex and then adding a polar group-including hydrazide compound to a terminal end of a molecular chain of the diene rubber; a rubber composition, comprising the modified diene rubber; and a tire, comprising a tire member made of the rubber composition.
US08389627B2	Silicone rubber compositions comprising bismuth oxide and articles made therefrom The present invention provides novel filled silicone compositions comprising a nano-particulate metal oxide filler selected from nano-particulate monoclinic alpha-phase bismuth oxide, nano-particulate erbium oxide, and mixtures thereof. The new composite compositions exhibit a combination of outstanding performance characteristics in both the cured and uncured states. Thus, the uncured formulations are typically free flowing liquids which are self-leveling, which de-gas readily under vacuum, are readily colorable through the addition of pigments, and which cure at temperatures of about 60° C. The cured compositions possess outstanding acoustic characteristics which make them ideally suited for use in applications such as acoustic lenses for medical imaging and therapy. For example, the acoustic impedance of compositions provided by the present invention is closely matched to the acoustic impedance of human tissue. This may result in an enhancement of ultrasound transmission efficiency between the lens of an ultrasound probe comprising such a composition and the patient.
US08389625B2	Production of synthetic hydrocarbon fluids, plasticizers and synthetic lubricant base stocks from renewable feedstocks This disclosure is directed to an integrated method for making synthetic hydrocarbon fluids, plasticizers and polar synthetic lubricant base stocks from a renewable feedstock. More particularly, the disclosure is directed to a metathesis reaction of natural oil or its derivative ester and ethylene in the presence of an effective amount of a metathesis catalyst to form linear alpha-olefins, internal olefins and reduced chain length triglycerides. The linear alpha-olefins and/or internal olefins are polymerized to produce synthetic hydrocarbon fluids in the presence of a suitable catalyst. The reduced chain length triglycerides are converted into polar synthetic lubricant base stocks or plasticizers by hydrogenation, isomerization, followed by hydrogenations, or by hydroisomerization processes. Alternatively, the reduced chain length triglycerides can also be epoxidized to form epoxidized triglyceride plasticizers, optionally followed by carbonation, to form carbonated triglyceride plasticizers.
US08389614B2	Biodegradable nanopolymer compositions and biodegradable articles made thereof Biodegradable nanopolymer compositions and methods of making the compositions are provided. In a general embodiment, the present disclosure provides a biodegradable nanopolymer composition made from starting material comprising poly(lactic acid), co-polyester polymer with adipic acid compounded and nanoparticles of a mineral material such as silica and magnesium silicate. In addition, the present disclosure provides processes for making the biodegradable nanopolymer compositions as well as biodegradable articles made using the biodegradable nanopolymer compositions such as molded, formed and extruded articles.
US08389612B2	Rubber composition for cap tread and tire having cap tread comprising the same A rubber composition for cap tread satisfying both of low heat build-up property and fracture strength and a tire having cap tread using the same are provided. A rubber composition for cap tread including 0.5 to 10 parts by mass of an alkylphenol-sulfur chloride condensate (B) indicated by the formula (B1): (wherein R1 to R3 are same or different, either is an alkyl group having 5 to 12 carbons; x and y are same or different, and either is an integer of 2 to 4; n is an integer of 0 to 10.), 0 to 0.45 parts by mass of sulfur (C), and 10 to 100 parts by mass of silica (D), based on 100 parts by mass of a specific rubber component (A).
US08389611B2	Pressure sensitive adhesive composition for optical members, pressure sensitive adhesive layer for optical members, pressure sensitive adhesive optical member and image display An object of the present invention is to provide a pressure sensitive adhesive composition for an optical member, which is excellent in coating property because of low viscosity, can reduce an amount of an organic solvent used, and can form a pressure sensitive adhesive layer excellent in durability and having high surface uniformity. The present invention relates to a pressure sensitive adhesive composition for an optical member, which comprises a (meth)acrylic polymer, a C6 to C9 hydrocarbon-based solvent (A), and a high-boiling highly solubilizing solvent (B) having a boiling point higher than that of the above hydrocarbon-based solvent and having a higher ability to solubilize the (meth)acrylic polymer than that of the above hydrocarbon-based solvent, wherein a content of the hydrocarbon-based solvent (A) is 20 to 60 wt % based on the total amount of the solvents, and a ratio of the content (wt %) of the hydrocarbon-based solvent (A) to the content (wt %) of the high-boiling highly solubilizing solvent (B) (high-boiling highly solubilizing solvent (B)/hydrocarbon-based solvent (A)) is 0.05 to 4.
US08389610B2	Rubber composition for coating a steel wire material A rubber composition is provided for coating a steel wire material having initial adhesion strength and water resistant adhesion strength with respect to a steel wire material at or above conventional levels, the rubber composition being compounded with a compound derived from a natural product. Specifically a rubber composition for coating a steel wire material is compounded with from 0.05 to 10 parts by weight of a salt compound per 100 parts by weight of a diene rubber, the salt compound including a dicarboxylic acid derived from a natural product and an amine of a decarboxylated amino acid derived from a natural product.
US08389600B2	Ink jet recording method, and ink jet recording apparatus Provided are an ink jet ink set, an ink jet recording method, and an ink jet recording apparatus each of which can reduce the graininess of an image to be recorded and improve the water fastness of the image even in a recording medium such as plain paper. The ink jet ink set has a first ink and a second ink independently, and is used so that the first and second inks overlap each other at least partly upon application of the inks to a recording medium. The first ink contains at least a pigment and a silicone oil. The second ink contains at least a pigment and a graft polymer that includes at least a nonionic unit represented by the general formula (I) and a unit having a polysiloxane structure.
US08389598B2	Dental polymerizable composition and kit therefor The present invention provides a dental polymerizable composition which has excellent handling property by the brush-dip technique and the bulk-mix technique, particularly excellent handling property by the brush-dip technique, contains few air bubbles, is excellent in color tone, polishability, mechanical properties and the discoloration resistance of a cured product at the time of curing and is used for many purposes such as the repair of a denture base or artificial tooth, a tooth crown prosthetic restoration and a temporary prosthetic restoration which is used until a bridge is completed when it is a two-composition type self-curing resin. The dental polymerizable composition comprises three different types of (meth)acrylate polymer particles, each having specific particle size characteristics and specific molecular weight characteristics.
US08389593B2	Composition for simultaneously forming two isolated column spacer patterns A composition for forming column spacers is provided. The composition comprises a radical polymerization inhibitor. The use of the composition enables simultaneous formation of a saturated pattern and a semi-transmissive pattern as column spacer patterns having different shapes, whose difference in thickness is controllable as desired although the sensitivity is slightly reduced, through a slit or semi-transmissive mask by varying the kind and amount of the radical polymerization inhibitor. Further provided are column spacers formed using composition and a liquid crystal display using the column spacers.
US08389588B2	Bi-phasic compressed porous reinforcement materials suitable for implant A high strength porous biphasic polymeric reinforcement material manufactured by a compression and/or sintering process is disclosed. The material results in a network of interconnected collapsed pores, which forces thin overlapping walls and passages to be created. The network provides permeable access for fluid migration throughout the material. The strength and/or permeability are advantageous for medical devices and implants.
US08389585B2	Slurry reactor fines segregation and removal The embodiments of the present invention are characterized by degasifying a portion of a gas and slurry mixture in a three-phase slurry process and lowering the solids content of the degassed slurry portion to below about 20 wt %. The degassed and lowered solids content slurry portion is then introduced into a fines separation device for separation and removal of fines. The foregoing procedure has been found to increase the effectiveness of the fines separation device.
US08389584B2	Nanodiamond material, method and device for purifying and modifying a nanodiamond Nanodiamond material containing carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen and oxygen characterized by the absence of sp2 carbon phase based on X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis and containing more than approximately 11 wt % of oxygen and demonstrating a pH approximately below 2.5 when dispersed in an amount of 10 wt % in deionized water. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract.
US08389581B2	Compositions and methods for treating hoof diseases The present invention is generally directed to compositions and methods for the treatment of an infectious disease of the foot of an animal. One aspect of the invention is directed to a method for preventing and/or treating one or more infectious diseases of the hoof in animals, comprising: preparing a copper-free and zinc-free composition comprising at least one cross-linking agent, wherein the cross-linking agent is not formaldehyde; and administering the composition to a lower leg and hoof area of said animal to prevent and/or treat said one or more infectious diseases. Another aspect of the invention is directed to a copper-free and zinc-free composition for the treatment and/or prevention of one or more infectious diseases of the hoof in animals, comprising at least one cross-linking agent, wherein said cross-linking agent is not formaldehyde. The present invention is also directed to a method for treating and/or preventing papillomatous digital dermatitis in an ungulate, comprising: preparing a copper-free and zinc-free composition comprising at least one cross-linking agent and at least one quaternary ammonium compound; and spraying or applying in a foam a therapeutically effective amount of said composition to a lower leg and hoof area of said ungulate in order to treat and/or prevent said papillomatous digitial dermatitis.
US08389578B2	Composition and method for treating neurological disease The invention provides methods and compositions for treating or preventing neurological disorders.
US08389577B2	Method of treating a human being for a class of metabolic defects and energy production disorders The invention involves various embodiments of a method for treating a human being for a condition associated with (1) a clinical state of impairment of carnitine or carnitine esters, or decreased fatty acid metabolism, (2) low energy production or lower ATP production, (3) clinical hyperammonemia, and (4) clinically high pyruvate levels resulting from a deficiency in the biosynthesis of carnitine. The method involves administering a therapeutically effective salt of N-6-trimethyl-L-lysine.
US08389576B2	Compositions comprising ornithine and phenylacetate or phenylbutyrate for treating hepatic encephalopathy The present invention relates to use of ornithine in the manufacture of a medicament for use in combination with at least one of phenylacetate and phenylbutyrate for preventing or treating liver decompensation or hepatic encephalopathy. The invention also relates to use of at least one of phenylacetate and phenylbutyrate in the manufacture of a medicament for use in combination with ornithine for preventing or treating liver decompensation or hepatic encephalopathy.
US08389573B2	Glycyrrhetinic acid derivatives The present invention relates to novel derivatives of glycyrrhetinic acid, compositions comprising said derivatives and their use in the treatment of conditions or diseases that benefit from an upregulation of PPAR&ggr; and/or a downregulation of the expression or activity of one or more specificity (Sp) proteins, such as cancer, diabetes and Huntington's disease.
US08389572B2	Therapeutic delivery of carbon monoxide Compounds, pharmaceutical compositions and methods for the therapeutic delivery of carbon monoxide to humans and other mammals that employ transition metal complexes having at least a substituted cyclopentadienyl, indenyl or fluorenyl ligand and two or more carbonyl ligands.
US08389568B2	IDO inhibitors and methods of use thereof Novel indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) inhibitors, compositions comprising the same, and methods of use thereof are disclosed.
US08389566B2	Prostaglandins and analogues as agents for lowering intraocular pressure The present invention relates to cyclopentane heptenoic acid-5-cis-2-(3α-hydroxy or lower alkyloxy-5-thienylpentyl)-3, 5-dihydroxy, [1α, 2β, 3α, 5α] compounds, lower alkyl, hydroxyl lower alkyl and indole lower alkyl amides and esters thereof as potent ocular hypotensives that are particularly suited for the management of glaucoma.
US08389565B2	Glycosidase inhibitors and methods of synthesizing same Methods for synthesizing Salacinol, its stereoisomers, and analogues, homologues and other derivatives thereof potentially useful as glycosidase inhibitors. In some embodiments the compounds of the invention may have the general formula (I) or (II): The synthetic schemes may comprise reacting a cyclic sulfate with a 5-membered ring sugar containing a heteroatom (X). The heteroatom preferably comprises sulfur, selenium, or nitrogen. The cyclic sulfate and ring sugar reagents may be readily prepared from carbohydrate precursors, such as D-glucose, L-glucose, D-xylose and L-xylose. The target compounds are prepared by opening of the cyclic sulfates by nucleophilic attack of the heteroatoms on the 5-membered ring sugars. The resulting heterocyclic compounds have a stable, inner salt structure comprising a heteroatom cation and a sulfate anion. The synthetic schemes yield various stereoisomers of the target compounds.
US08389564B2	Proteasome inhibitors Disclosed herein are compounds of Formula (I) that include a sulfonate ester, ester or ether group. Compounds of Formula (I) can be included in pharmaceutical compositions, and can be used to treating and/or ameliorating a disease or condition, such as cancer, a microbial disease and/or inflammation.
US08389559B2	Pyrrolidine triple reuptake inhibitors In various embodiments, the present invention provides cycloalkyl pyrrolidine compounds and methods for their use in the treatment and/or prevention of various diseases, conditions and syndromes, including central nervous system (CNS) disorders, such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia and sleep disorder as well as methods for their synthesis. The invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing the compounds of the invention, as well as methods of inhibiting reuptake of endogenous monoamines, such as dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine from the synaptic cleft and methods of modulating one or more monoamine transporter.
US08389558B2	Bendamustine amphiphilic anionic compositions The present invention is directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising bendamustine and one or more amphiphilic anionic compounds and self assembled aggregates, which aggregates exhibit enhanced stability in aqueous solutions, including plasma, are disclosed. The unexpectedly enhanced stability afforded by such aggregates permits patients to be treated with bendamustine in lower and/or with less frequent dosages or to improve its therapeutic effect while using the same as presently used treatment protocol.
US08389555B2	Medicaments A compound of formal (I) is described: wherein R1 and R2 are as defined in the text and wherein the compounds are intended for use in treating medical conditions characterized by an imbalance in dopamine receptor activity.
US08389549B2	Substituted pyridines useful for treating pain A compound of Formula: (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable derivative thereof, where Ar1, Ar2, X, R3, and m are as disclosed herein. Compounds of Formulae (I)-(V) and pharmaceutically acceptable derivatives thereof; compositions comprising an effective amount of a compound of Formulae (I)-(V) or a pharmaceutically acceptable derivative thereof; and methods for treating or preventing pain, UI, an ulcer, IBD, or IBS in an animal comprising administering to an animal in need thereof an effective amount of a compound of Formulae (I)-(V) or a pharmaceutically acceptable derivative thereof are disclosed herein.
US08389548B2	Medical uses of a selective estrogen receptor modulator in combination with sex steroid precursors Novel methods for the medical treatment and/or inhibition of the development of osteoporosis, breast cancer, hypercholesterolemia, hyperlipidemia or atherosclerosis in susceptible warm-blooded animals including humans involving administration of selective estrogen receptor modulator particularly compounds having the general structure: and an amount of a sex steroid precursor selected from the group consisting of dehydroepiandrosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, androst-5-ene-3β,17β-diol and compounds converted in vivo to one of the foregoing presursor. Further administration of bisphosphonates in combination with selective estrogen receptor modulators and/or sex steroid precursor is disclosed for the medical treatment and/or inhibition of the development of osteoporosis. Pharmaceutical compositions for delivery of active ingredient(s) and kit(s) useful to the invention are also disclosed.
US08389547B2	Piperidines and related compounds for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease Compounds of formula (I) are modulators of gamma-secretase, and hence are useful in treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
US08389545B2	Quinolone M1 receptor positive allosteric modulators The present invention is directed to quinolone compounds of general formula (I) which are M1 receptor positive allosteric modulators and that are useful in the treatment of diseases in which the M1 receptor is involved, such as Alzheimer's disease, pain or sleep disorders, and to novel M1 receptor positive allosteric modulator compounds of formulae (II) to (VIII). The invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds, and to the use of the compounds and compositions in the treatment of diseases in which the M1 receptor is involved.
US08389544B2	Isoquinolone compounds as subtype-selective agonists for melatonin receptors MT1 and MT2 A method of treating, preventing, or ameliorating a pathological condition associated with a melatonin receptor in a mammal by using a pharmaceutical composition containing a compound of formula (I) as a ligand interacting with the melatonin receptor, R1, R2, R3, R4 and R7 are independently H, halo, alkyloxyl, alkyl or hydroxyl, provided that one of R1, R2, R3 and R7 is X—(CH2)n—R8; R5 is alkyl or arylalkyl; R6 is H or alkyl; X is a bond, O, S, SO, SO2, CO or NH; n=0-10; R8 is alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, NR9R10, or OR9; R9 is H, substituted or unsubstituted arylmethyl, or alkenyl; and R10 is H or alkyl.
US08389543B2	Metalloenzyme inhibitor compounds The instant invention describes compounds having metalloenzyme modulating activity, and methods of treating diseases, disorders or symptoms thereof mediated by such metalloenzymes.
US08389542B2	Dosage unit comprising a prostaglandin analog for treating constipation A dosage unit for treating constipation in a human patient is described. The dosage unit of the invention includes a halogenated prostaglandin analog and a pharmaceutically suitable excipient. The dosage unit relieves constipation without substantial side effects. In particular, the dosage unit includes a prostaglandin (PG) analog represented by Formula (I) and/or its tautomers, and a pharmaceutically suitable excipient, wherein the dosage unit contains the PG analog in an amount of 24 μg+/−10%:
US08389541B2	Inhibitors of protein tyrosine kinase activity This invention relates to compounds that inhibit protein tyrosine kinase activity. In particular the invention relates to compounds that inhibit the protein tyrosine kinase activity of growth factor receptors, resulting in the inhibition of receptor signaling, for example, the inhibition of VEGF receptor signaling and HGF receptor signaling. More particularly, the invention relates to compounds, compositions and methods for the inhibition of VEGF receptor signaling and HGF receptor signaling. The invention also provides compositions and methods for treating cell proliferative diseases and conditions.
US08389540B2	Polymorphic forms of naltrexone This invention relates to the discovery of novel polymorphic forms of naltrexone, including solvates, hydrates, anhydrous and other crystalline forms and combinations thereof. These novel forms of naltrexone impart advantages in pharmaceutical formulations incorporating them, including sustained release, or long acting, formulations.
US08389535B2	L-methylfolate treatment for psychiatric or neurologic disorders Provided herein are methods of treating neuropsychiatric disorders or improving the symptoms associated therewith administering a medical food, such as L-methylfolate, to a subject having the disorder. The neuropsychiatric disorder may be an autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADD/ADHD). The L-methylfolate may be administered as an adjunct to other therapeutic agents effective to treat the disorder. The subject preferably may be a child and also may have a single nucleotide polymorphism in the MTHFR gene associated with reduced expression of MTHFR enzyme. Also provided is a method of increasing the de novo synthesis of neurotransmitters in vivo by transporting a methyl-donating compound across the blood-brain barrier in a subject.
US08389533B2	Gem-disubstituted and spirocyclic amino pyridines/pyrimidines as cell cycle inhibitors Compounds, pharmaceutical compositions and methods are provided that are useful in the treatment of CDK4-mediated disorders, such as cancer. The subject compounds are gem-disubstituted or spirocyclic pyridine, pyrimidine and triazine derivatives.
US08389532B2	7-[2-[4-(6-fluoro-3-methyl-1,2-benzisoxazol-5-yl)-1-piperazinyl]ethyl]-2-(1-propynyl)-7H-pyrazolo-[4,3-E]-[1,2,4]-triazolo-[1,5-C]-pyrimidin-5-amine The compound having the structural formula I or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, is disclosed, as well as its use in the treatment of central nervous system diseases, in particular Parkinson's disease, Extra Pyramidal Syndrome, restless legs syndrome and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, pharmaceutical compositions comprising it, and combinations with other agents.
US08389529B2	Methods and compositions for treating asthma The present application relates to compounds and methods for treating pain, incontinence and other conditions.
US08389520B2	Substituted dihydropyrazolones for treating cardiovascular and hematological diseases The present application relates to novel substituted dihydropyrazolone derivatives, processes for their preparation, their use for treatment and/or prophylaxis of diseases and their use for the preparation of medicaments for treatment and/or prophylaxis of diseases, in particular cardiovascular and hematological diseases and kidney diseases, and for promoting wound healing.
US08389519B2	Adamantyl diamide derivatives and uses of same The present invention provides adamantyl-diamide derivatives of formula (I): wherein R1 and R2 are as defined herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; and pharmaceutical compositions and methods using the same.
US08389517B2	Glucosylceramide synthase inhibition for the treatment of collapsing glomerulopathy and other glomerular disease A method of treating a glomerular disease selected from the group consisting of mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis, collapsing glomerulopathy, proliferative lupus nephritis, crescentic glomerulonephritis and membranous nephropathy in a subject comprises administering to the subject an effective amount of a glucosylceramide synthase inhibitor.
US08389516B2	Antibacterial compositions Compounds of formula (I) have antibacterial activity: wherein: m is 0 or 1; Q is hydrogen or cyclopropyl; Alk is an optionally substituted, divalent C1-C6 alkylene, alkenylene or alkynylene radical which may contain an ether (—O—), thioether (—S—) or amino (—NR)— link, wherein R is hydrogen, —CN or C1-C3 alkyl; X is —C(═O)NR6—, —S(O)NR6—, —C(═O)O— or —S(═O)O— wherein R6 is hydrogen, optionally substituted C1-C6 alkyl, C2-C6 alkenyl, C2-C6 alkynyl, -Cyc, or —(C1-C3 alkyl)-Cyc wherein Cyc is optionally substituted monocyclic carbocyclic or heterocyclic having 3-7 ring atoms; Z is N or CH, or CF; R2 and R3 are as defined in the description.
US08389514B2	Cyanoaminoquinolones and tetrazoloaminoquinolones as GSK-3 inhibitors Provided herein are aminoquinolones and pharmaceutically acceptable derivatives thereof. In certain embodiments, provided herein are compounds, compositions and methods for treating, preventing or ameliorating GSK-3 mediated diseases.
US08389511B2	Bicyclic heterocyclic derivative The present invention relates to a compound of the following formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, being useful as a renin inhibitor. [wherein R1a is halogen, etc.; R1m is H, etc.; G1 is —N(R1b)—, etc.; G2 is —CO—, etc.; G3 is —C(R1c)(R1d)—, etc.; G4 is oxygen, etc.; R1b is optionally substituted C1-6 alkyl, etc.; R1c and R1d are independently the same or different, H, etc.; R3 is H, optionally substituted C1-6 alkyl, etc.; R3a, R3b, R3c and R3d are independently the same or different, and a group: -A-B (said A is single bond, etc., and said B is H, etc.), etc.; and n is 1, etc.]
US08389510B2	Crystalline forms 11-piperazin-1-yldibenzo[b,f][1,4]thiazepine, compositions thereof, preparations thereof, formulations thereof, prodrugs thereof and pharmaceutical uses thereof.
US08389502B2	Stabilized steroid composition and method for its preparation Stabilized, 17-substituted hydrocortisone containing compositions and methods of manufacture are disclosed. Isomerization of the hydrocortisone component of topical steroid compositions is markedly reduced by including an omega-6 acid component in the form of a free acid or as a compound such as an ester. Specifically disclosed are methods for preventing the isomerization of hydrocortisone 17-butyrate into hydrocortisone 21-butyrate through the use of safflower oil.
US08389499B2	Cyclodextrin-based polymers for therapeutics delivery The present invention relates to novel compositions of therapeutic cyclodextrin containing polymeric compounds designed as a carrier for small molecule therapeutics delivery and pharmaceutical compositions thereof. These cyclodextrin-containing polymers improve drug stability and solubility, and reduce toxicity of the small molecule therapeutic when used in vivo. Furthermore, by selecting from a variety of linker groups and targeting ligands the polymers present methods for controlled delivery of the therapeutic agents. The invention also relates to methods of treating subjects with the therapeutic compositions described herein. The invention further relates to methods for conducting pharmaceutical business comprising manufacturing, licensing, or distributing kits containing or relating to the polymeric compounds described herein.
US08389496B2	Bone morphogenic proteins (BMP), BMP receptors and BMP binding proteins and their use in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma The present invention provides methods and kits for diagnosing and treating glaucoma.
US08389492B2	Lyophilized DNA formulations for enhanced expression of plasmid DNA The present invention provides for a method of treating or preventing ischemic or liver disease in a subject by administering a composition reconstituted from a lyophilized hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) DNA formulation, where the DNA formulation comprises an HGF plasmid DNA, salt and a carbohydrate. The invention further provides for a method of making such a lyophilized DNA formulation that preserves or enhances gene expression both in vitro and in vivo, thus maintaining or stimulating the biological activity of the expressed protein. The invention also provides for the DNA formulation, or the lyophilized DNA formulation according to the methods disclosed.
US08389487B2	siRNA-mediated gene silencing of synuclein The present invention is directed to small interfering RNAs that down regulate expression of a synuclein gene and methods of using the small interfering RNAs.
US08389484B2	Methods for targeting RNA molecules Described are methods for identifying targets in RNA molecules based on differences in RNA secondary structure related to sequence variances between different allelic forms. Also described are methods for identifying or developing small molecules which can be used to modulate a target RNA by creation of protein-small-molecule-RNA complexes, as well as compositions which include such small molecules and methods of using those small molecules and compositions.
US08389483B2	Intrauterine fetal growth restriction—the treatment modalities for clinical research, and the biochemical rationale Intrauterine Fetal Growth Restriction (IUGR) is a very important clinical problem for which no satisfactory treatment is available so far. The current invention of intravenous (IV) hypertonic glucose supplementation to the mother to improve the glucose transfer to the fetus at the intervillous space by improved facilitated diffusion can be a safe and easy way of treating this problem, as the improved fetal blood glucose can lead to fetal lipogenesis that can conserve the fetal O2 (oxygen) utilization and also relieve the associated metabolic derangements of fetal hypoxia, hypercapnia, and acidosis, apart from replenishing the oxidized coenzymes needed for the carbohydrate metabolism. The use of trans-amniotic fetal feeding studied by animal experiments can be difficult in humans, because of the danger of infection, which can be overcome by the use of implantable ports with a sterile patch technique.
US08389481B2	Glutamate-enhanced cell-penetrating peptides and methods of using same Disclosed herein are novel glutamate-enhanced cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) for use as delivery vehicles to mediate intracellular uptake of therapeutic payloads and methods of using the same.
US08389480B2	G protein coupled receptor agonists and antagonists and methods of activating and inhibiting G protein coupled receptors using the same The invention relates generally to G protein coupled receptors and in particular to agonists and antagonists of G protein receptors and methods of using the same.
US08389471B2	Amino acid composition for improving glucose tolerance Disclosed are compositions, including low-calorie beverages or liquids, comprising isoleucine, leucine, valine, cysteine, and methionine, in specified amounts, weight ratios, or both. The compositions are especially useful in treating individuals afflicted with impaired glucose tolerance or diabetes.
US08389469B2	Bacteriophage lysins for Bacillus anthracis The present disclosure relates to methods, compositions and articles of manufacture useful for the treatment of Bacillus anthracis and B. cereus bacteria and spores, and related conditions. The disclosure further relates to compositions comprising various phage associated lytic enzyme that rapidly and specifically detect and kill Bacillus anthracis and other bacteria. Related articles of manufacture, methods of degrading spores and methods of treatment of infections or bacteria populations of, or subjects exposed to or at risk for exposure to Bacillus anthracis are also provided.
US08389466B2	Use of carboxylic acid esters as a fragrance substance A description is provided of the use of certain carboxylic acid esters as a fragrance substance, preferably as a fragrance substance for conveying, modifying and/or intensifying one, two or all the fragrance notes fruity and green, preferably both the fragrance notes fruity and green.
US08389465B2	Isosorbide monoesters and their use in household applications Isosorbide monoesters according to the general formula (I) wherein R′ or R″ represent a hydrogen atom, or an group CO—R′″, with the proviso that one group R′ or R″ is a hydrogen atom, and R′″ represents linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl- or alkenyl groups with 6 to 22 C-atoms are useful compounds in the preparation of all kind of detergents, in particular dish washing detergents or of cosmetic preparations.
US08389455B2	Compositions and methods for removing organic substances Compositions and methods useful for the removal of organic substances from substrates, for example, electronic device substrates such as microelectronic wafers or flat panel displays, are provided. A method is presented which applies a minimum volume of the composition as a coating to the inorganic substrate whereby sufficient heat is added and immediately rinsed with water to achieve complete removal. These compositions and methods are particularly suitable for removing and completely dissolving photoresists of the positive and negative varieties as well as thermoset polymers from electronic devices.
US08389454B2	Manufacturing and cleansing of thin film transistor panels A manufacturing a thin film transistor array panel includes depositing a first thin film including aluminum on a substrate, patterning the first thin film by photolithography and etching, cleansing the substrate including the first thin film, and depositing a second thin film on the cleansed substrate. The cleansing is performed using a cleansing material including ultrapure water, cyclic amine, pyrogallol, benzotriazole, and methyl glycol. The cleansing material includes ultrapure water at about 85 wt % to about 99 wt %, cyclic amine at about 0.01 wt % to about 1.0 wt %, pyrogallol at about 0.01 wt % to 1.0 wt %, benzotriazole at about 0.01 wt % to 1.0 wt %, and methyl glycol at about 0.01 wt % to 1.0 wt %.
US08389453B2	Tetrafluoroborate compounds, compositions and related methods of use Tetrafluoroboric acid and an organic nitrogenous base, related compounds and compositions, as can be used in conjunction with various methods of cleaning and/or the treatment of substrate surfaces.
US08389452B2	Polymeric compositions useful as rheology modifiers and methods for making such compositions Disclosed are rheology modifiers comprising compositionally disperse polymeric compositions and/or crystallinity disperse polymeric compositions that may be useful in modifying the rheological properties of lubrication fluids, and methods for making such compositions. The compositionally disperse polymeric composition are formed from at least two discrete compositions of ethylene copolymers. The crystallinity disperse polymeric composition are formed from ethylene copolymers having at least two discrete values of residual crystallinity.
US08389450B2	Lubricant concentrate containing a phosphate triester The present invention relates to a lubricant concentrate containing the following components (i) at least one amine, (ii) at least one phosphate according to the general formula (I), (iii) at least one acid, (iv) optionally at least one ether carboxylic acid compounds with the general formula (II) R20—(O(CH2)m)nOCH2COO−M+ (II), (v) optionally at least one further aid or additive.
US08389448B1	Anionic ether amines and process for using same The process for making amphoteric surfactants derived from ether amine s is described. The ether amines may be derived from natural products such as animal, marine or vegetable oils or from petroleum derived raw materials. The application of these amphoteric surfactants to the recovery of residual oil by Enhanced Oil Recovery methods is disclosed.
US08389445B2	Methods for discretized processing and process sequence integration of regions of a substrate The present invention provides methods and systems for discretized, combinatorial processing of regions of a substrate such as for the discovery, implementation, optimization, and qualification of new materials, processes, and process sequence integration schemes used in integrated circuit fabrication. A substrate having an array of differentially processed regions thereon is processed by delivering materials to or modifying regions of the substrate.
US08389443B2	Geminal alkoxy/alkylspirocyclic substituted tetramate derivatives The invention relates to novel compounds of the formula (I): in which W, X, Y, Z, A, B and G have the meanings given herein, to a plurality of processes and intermediates for their preparation, and to their use as pesticides and/or herbicides; relates to selective herbicidal compositions comprising, firstly, geminally alkoxy/alkylspirocyclically substituted tetramic acid derivatives and, secondly, a crop plant compatibility-improving compound; and relates to the boosting of the action of crop protection compositions comprising compounds of the formula (I) through the addition of ammonium salts or phosphonium salts and optionally penetrants.
US08389440B2	Synergistic insecticide mixtures The invention relates to insecticidal mixtures containing the compound of the formula (I) and at least one further known active compound from the series abamectin, emamectin and/or emamectin benzoate, methiocarb, β-cyfluthrin, lambda-cyhalothrin, and indoxacarb, and further relates to the use of these mixtures for controlling animal pests.
US08389439B2	Method for forming products from a flue gas desulfurization by-product and products formed thereby Compositions and methods for producing a manufactured product, a method for making a liquid absorbent, and processes for disposal of flammable liquids with a flue gas desulfurization by-product. The compositions for the manufactured products combine a binder and the by-product. The composition contains a greater percentage by weight of the by-product than the binder. The methods for producing manufactured products include dewatering the gypsum-depleted waste stream to reduce a water content, and forming the manufactured product. The method for making a liquid absorbent includes dewatering, granulating, drying, heating, and packaging a granulated gypsum-depleted composition as the liquid absorbent. The processes for disposal of flammable liquids include distributing a by-product into contact with flammable liquid, absorbing the liquid, transporting, and igniting the flammable liquid. The artificial soils are a combination of by-product and animal waste.
US08389437B2	Process for preparing catalyst supports having reduced levels of contaminant A method of preparing a catalyst support is described comprising washing a precipitated metal oxide material with water and/or an aqueous solution of acid and/or base such that contaminant levels in said precipitated metal oxide are reduced. The method may be applied to precipitated alumina materials to reduce contaminants selected from sulphur, chlorine, Group 1A and Group 2A metals. The catalyst supports may be used to prepare catalysts for the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis of hydrocarbons.
US08389434B2	Catalyst and a method for manufacturing the same An improved platinum and method for manufacturing the improved platinum wherein the platinum having a fractal surface coating of platinum, platinum gray, with a increase in surface area of at least 5 times when compared to shiny platinum of the same geometry and also having improved resistance to physical stress when compared to platinum black having the same surface area. The process of electroplating the surface coating of platinum gray comprising plating at a moderate rate, for example at a rate that is faster than the rate necessary to produce shiny platinum and that is less than the rate necessary to produce platinum black. Platinum gray is applied to manufacture a fuel cell and a catalyst.
US08389430B2	Beta-spodumene-cordierite composition, article, and method Porous spodumene-cordierite honeycomb bodies of high strength but low volumetric density, useful for the manufacture of close-coupled engine exhaust converters, gasoline engine particulate exhaust filters, and NOx integrated engine exhaust filters, are provided through the reactive sintering of batches comprising sources of magnesia, alumina and silica together with a lithia source, such as a spodumene or petalite ore.
US08389428B2	Glass composition and member having the same on substrate A glass composition having high refractive index, softening property at low temperature and small average thermal expansion coefficient, and a member provided with the composition on a substrate, are provided. The glass composition of the present invention has a refractive index (nd) of from 1.88 to 2.20, a glass transition temperature (Tg) of from 450 to 490° C., and an average thermal expansion coefficient at temperatures from 50° C. to 300° C. (α50-300) of from 60×10−7/K to 90×10−7/K, and includes Bi2O3 in an amount of from 5 to 25% in terms of mol % on the basis of oxides.
US08389427B2	Hydroentangled nonwoven material A hydroentangled nonwoven material (8), includes a mixture of randomized continuous filaments (3) and natural fibers (5), wherein at least part of the staple fibers and/or the continuous filaments includes thermoplastic material. The nonwoven material is bonded in a non-random bonding pattern including a plurality of bonding sites (14) in which thermoplastic material included in the nonwoven material has been caused to at least partly soften or melt to create thermal bonds between the continuous filaments. The nonwoven material includes no other thermal bonds between the filaments than provided by the non-random bonding pattern. The nonwoven material may also contain synthetic staple fibers (6).
US08389425B2	Bonded mat and method for making Herein is disclosed a bonded mat comprising a coil web that is bonded to a backing. The coil web comprises continuous coiled fibers, at least some of which contain expanded polymeric microspheres. The backing comprises a porous material. Methods of making the coil web and the backing, and methods of bonding the coil web and the backing, are disclosed.
US08389424B2	Reinforcement for darted Pi preforms A reinforcement for a darted three-dimensional Pi or T-shaped preform, a method of making thereof and a composite structure including the reinforcement is disclosed. The reinforcement is a steered fabric having a width, a length, a first face surface and a second face surface separated by a thickness. The first face surface of the steered fabric is affixed to a darted component of the preform. The steered fabric reinforcement can be a single layer or multilayer fabric, which can be woven using a programmable take up system.
US08389422B2	Rapid thermal processing by stamping A rapid thermal processing device and methods are provided for thermal processing of samples such as semiconductor wafers. The device has components including a stamp (35) having a stamping surface and a heater or cooler (40) to bring it to a selected processing temperature, a sample holder (20) for holding a sample (10) in position for intimate contact with the stamping surface; and positioning components (25) for moving the stamping surface and the stamp (35) in and away from intimate, substantially non-pressured contact. Methods for using and making such devices are also provided. These devices and methods allow inexpensive, efficient, easily controllable thermal processing.
US08389418B2	Solution for the selective removal of metal from aluminum substrates The present disclosure relates to a solution for selectively removing metal, such as Ta or TaN, from a substrate, such as an aluminum containing substrate. The solution comprises an acid, such as HF or buffered HF, an ingredient comprising a fluorine ion, such as ammonium fluoride (NH4F), ethylene glycol, and water. A method of selectively removing metal from a substrate using this solution is also disclosed.
US08389413B2	Method of manufacturing semiconductor device A sidewall core that is slimmed is formed in a memory cell array area by patterning a polysilicon layer formed over a silicon nitride layer. A silicon oxide layer that at least covers side surfaces of the sidewall core and the polysilicon layer are sequentially formed and an embedded hard mask is formed by etching back the polysilicon layer. Thereafter, the silicon nitride layer within the memory cell array area that does not overlap with the sidewall core or the embedded hard mask and the silicon nitride layer within a peripheral circuit area that overlaps with a positioning monitor mark are exposed by etching the silicon oxide layer, and then the silicon nitride layer that is to be etched is patterned.
US08389408B2	Methods of forming a semiconductor device including a metal silicon nitride layer Provided are methods of forming a semiconductor device. The methods include providing a first precursor and a substitute gas into a reaction chamber having a substrate therein, the first precursor having a first substituent and further providing a second precursor into the reaction chamber. Either the first precursor or the second precursor includes a metal element and the other includes a silicon element, at least one of the first substituents of the first precursor are substituted with the substitute gas, the first precursor substituted with the substitute gas is adsorbed onto the substrate, and the second precursor is reacted with the adsorbed first precursor.
US08389405B2	Method for forming fine pattern having variable width and method for manufacturing semiconductor device using the same A method for forming a fine pattern having a variable width by simultaneously using an optimal focused electron beam and a defocused electron beam in a light exposure process Includes, after forming a first film on a substrate, forming a first film pattern including a first level area and a second level area having different distances from the substrate by changing a profile of an upper surface of the first film. A photoresist film having a first area covering the first level area and a second area covering the second level area is formed. To simultaneously light-expose the first area and the second area with the same width, a light exposure condition, in which an optimal focused electron beam is eradiated on the first area and a defocused electron beam is eradiated on the second area, is applied. A plurality of photoresist patterns continuously extending over the first level area and the second level area with different widths on the first level area and the second level area are formed by developing the light-exposed photoresist film.
US08389401B2	Contact elements of semiconductor devices formed on the basis of a partially applied activation layer When forming contact levels of sophisticated semiconductor devices, a superior bottom to top fill behavior may be accomplished by applying an activation material selectively in the lower part of the contact openings and using a selective deposition technique. Consequently, deposition-related irregularities, such as voids, may be efficiently suppressed even for high aspect ratio contact openings.
US08389400B2	Method of manufacturing fine patterns of semiconductor device A method of forming fine patterns of a semiconductor device comprises forming sacrificial film patterns of a line type in a cell region of a semiconductor substrate and, at the same time, forming pad patterns in a peripheral region of the semiconductor substrate, forming a spacer on sidewalls of each of the sacrificial film patterns and the pad patterns, forming a gap-fill layer on sidewalls of the spacers to thereby form line and space patterns, including the sacrificial film patterns and the gap-fill layers, in the cell region, and separating the line and space patterns of the cell region at regular intervals and, at the same time, etching the pad patterns of the peripheral region to thereby form specific patterns in the peripheral region.
US08389396B2	Method for manufacture of integrated circuit package system with protected conductive layers for pads A method for manufacture of an integrated circuit package system includes: providing an integrated circuit die having a contact pad; forming a protection cover over the contact pad; forming a passivation layer having a first opening over the protection cover with the first opening exposing the protection cover; developing a conductive layer over the passivation layer; forming a pad opening in the protection cover for exposing the contact pad having the conductive layer partially removed; and an interconnect directly on the contact pad and only adjacent to the protection cover and the passivation layer.
US08389394B2	Method of making semiconductor package having redistribution layer The present invention relates to a semiconductor package and a method for making the same. The semiconductor package includes a substrate, a first passivation layer, a first metal layer, a second passivation layer, a second metal layer and a third metal layer. The substrate has a surface having at least one first pad and at least one second pad. The first passivation layer covers the surface of the substrate and exposes the first pad and the second pad. The first metal layer is formed on the first passivation layer and is electrically connected to the second pad. The second passivation layer is formed on the first metal layer and exposes the first pad and part of the first metal layer. The second metal layer is formed on the second passivation layer and is electrically connected to the first pad. The third metal layer is formed on the second passivation layer and is electrically connected to the first metal layer.
US08389392B2	FinFET with separate gates and method for fabricating a finFET with separate gates The present invention relates to a FinFET with separate gates and to a method for fabricating the same. A dielectric gate-separation layer between first and second gate electrodes has an extension in a direction pointing from a first to a second gate layer that is smaller than a lateral extension of the fin between its opposite lateral faces. This structure corresponds with a processing method that starts from a covered basic FinFET structure with a continuous first gate layer, and proceeds to remove parts of the first gate layer and of a first gate-isolation layer through a contact opening to the gate layer. Subsequently, a replacement gate-isolation layer that at the same time forms the gate separation layer fabricated, followed by filling the tunnel with a replacement gate layer and a metal filling.
US08389389B2	Semiconductor layer manufacturing method, semiconductor layer manufacturing apparatus, and semiconductor device manufactured using such method and apparatus Provided are a semiconductor layer manufacturing method and a semiconductor manufacturing apparatus capable of forming a high quality semiconductor layer even by a single chamber system, with a shortened process time required for reducing a concentration of impurities that exist in a reaction chamber before forming the semiconductor layer. A semiconductor device manufactured using such a method and apparatus is also provided. The present invention relates to a semiconductor layer manufacturing method of forming a semiconductor layer inside a reaction chamber (101) capable of being hermetically sealed, including an impurities removing step of removing impurities inside the reaction chamber (101) using a replacement gas, and a semiconductor layer forming step of forming the semiconductor layer, the impurities removing step being a step in which a cycle composed of a replacement gas introducing step of introducing the replacement gas into the reaction chamber (101) and an exhausting step of exhausting the replacement gas is repeated a plurality of times, the impurities removing step being performed at least before the semiconductor layer forming step.
US08389387B2	Segmented nanowires displaying locally controllable properties Vapor-liquid-solid growth of nanowires is tailored to achieve complex one-dimensional material geometries using phase diagrams determined for nanoscale materials. Segmented one-dimensional nanowires having constant composition display locally variable electronic band structures that are determined by the diameter of the nanowires. The unique electrical and optical properties of the segmented nanowires are exploited to form electronic and optoelectronic devices. Using gold-germanium as a model system, in situ transmission electron microscopy establishes, for nanometer-sized Au—Ge alloy drops at the tips of Ge nanowires (NWs), the parts of the phase diagram that determine their temperature-dependent equilibrium composition. The nanoscale phase diagram is then used to determine the exchange of material between the NW and the drop. The phase diagram for the nanoscale drop deviates significantly from that of the bulk alloy.
US08389386B2	Stacked wafer manufacturing method A manufacturing method for a stacked wafer configured by bonding a mother wafer having a plurality of first semiconductor device and a stacking wafer having a plurality of second semiconductor devices. The manufacturing method includes the steps of attaching a protective member to the front side of the stacking wafer to protect the second semiconductor devices, next grinding the back side of the stacking wafer, next bonding the front side of a reinforcing wafer through a bonding layer to the back side of the stacking wafer, next dividing the stacking wafer together with the reinforcing wafer into the plural second semiconductor devices, next bonding the front side of each second semiconductor device to the front side of the mother wafer to thereby connect the electrodes of each second semiconductor device to the electrodes of the corresponding first semiconductor device of the mother wafer, and finally grinding the reinforcing wafer bonded to the back side of each second semiconductor device to thereby remove the reinforcing wafer.
US08389381B2	Processes for forming backplanes for electro-optic displays A non-linear element is formed on a flexible substrate by securing the substrate to a rigid carrier, forming the non-linear element, and then separating the flexible substrate from the carrier. The process allows flexible substrates to be processed in a conventional fab intended to process rigid substrates. In a second method, a transistor is formed on a insulating substrate by forming gate electrodes, depositing a dielectric layer, a semiconductor layer and a conductive layer, patterning the conductive layer to form source, drain and pixel electrodes, covering the channel region of the resultant transistor with an etch-resistant material and etching using the etch-resistant material and the conductive layer as a mask, the etching extending substantially through the semiconductor layer between adjacent transistors. The invention also provides a process for forming a diode on a substrate by depositing on the substrate a first conductive layer, and a second patterned conductive layer and a patterned dielectric layer over parts of the first conductive layer, and etching the first conductive layer using the second conductive layer and dielectric layer as an etch mask. Finally, the invention provides a process for driving an impulse-sensitive electro-optic display.
US08389380B2	Method for making a substrate of the semiconductor on insulator type with an integrated ground plane A method for making a semiconductor on insulator (SeOI) type substrate that includes an integrated ground plane under the insulating layer wherein the substrate is intended to be used in making electronic components. This method includes implanting atoms or ions of a metal in at least one portion of a semiconducting receiver substrate, carrying out a heat treatment of the receiver substrate in order to obtain an integrated ground plane on or in at least one portion of that receiver substrate, transferring an active layer stemming from a semiconducting donor substrate onto the receiver substrate, with an insulating layer being inserted in between the donor and receiver substrates to obtain the substrate with an integrated ground plane.
US08389378B2	3D IC method and device A method of three-dimensionally integrating elements such as singulated die or wafers and an integrated structure having connected elements such as singulated dies or wafers. Either or both of the die and wafer may have semiconductor devices formed therein. A first element having a first contact structure is bonded to a second element having a second contact structure. First and second contact structures can be exposed at bonding and electrically interconnected as a result of the bonding. A via may be etched and filled after bonding to expose and form an electrical interconnect to interconnected first and second contact structures and provide electrical access to this interconnect from a surface. Alternatively, first and/or second contact structures are not exposed at bonding, and a via is etched and filled after bonding to electrically interconnect first and second contact structures and provide electrical access to interconnected first and second contact structure to a surface. Also, a device may be formed in a first substrate, the device being disposed in a device region of the first substrate and having a first contact structure. A via may be etched, or etched and filled, through the device region and into the first substrate before bonding and the first substrate thinned to expose the via, or filled via after bonding.
US08389373B2	Methods of manufacturing a hybrid electrical contact Techniques for manufacturing an electronic device. In certain embodiments, a substrate includes a lower patterned layer that has a target conductor. A hybrid-vertical contact may be disposed directly on the target conductor. The hybrid vertical contact may include a lower-vertical contact directly on the target conductor and an upper-vertical contact directly on the lower-vertical contact. The upper-vertical contact may have an upper width that is greater than a lower width of the lower-vertical contact.
US08389372B2	Heterojunction bipolar transistors with reduced base resistance Heterojunction bipolar transistors with reduced base resistance, as well as fabrication methods for heterojunction bipolar transistors and design structures for BiCMOS integrated circuits. The heterojunction bipolar transistor includes a conductive layer between the intrinsic base and the extrinsic base. The conductive layer is comprised of a conductive material, such as a silicide, having a lower resistivity than the materials forming the intrinsic base and the extrinsic base.
US08389363B2	Methods of forming field effect transistors, methods of forming field effect transistor gates, methods of forming integrated circuitry comprising a transistor gate array and circuitry peripheral to the gate array, and methods of forming integrated circuitry comprising a transistor gate array including first gates and second grounded isolation gates The invention includes methods of forming field effect transistors, methods of forming field effect transistor gates, methods of forming integrated circuitry comprising a transistor gate array and circuitry peripheral to the gate array, and methods of forming integrated circuitry comprising a transistor gate array including first gates and second grounded isolation gates. In one implementation, a method of forming a field effect transistor includes forming masking material over semiconductive material of a substrate. A trench is formed through the masking material and into the semiconductive material. Gate dielectric material is formed within the trench in the semiconductive material. Gate material is deposited within the trench in the masking material and within the trench in the semiconductive material over the gate dielectric material. Source/drain regions are formed. Other aspects and implementations are contemplated.
US08389357B2	Method of fabricating a memory device having a memory array including a plurality of memory cell transistors arranged in rows and columns A method of fabricating a memory device in a semiconductor substrate, the device having a memory array having a plurality of memory cell transistors arranged in rows and columns. The method includes forming a plurality of tunneling field effect transistors, forming a first well of the second doping type, forming a second well of the first doping type surrounding the first well, forming a first word line connected to a first row of memory cell transistors, forming a first bit line to control a voltage of doped drain regions of tunneling field effect transistors of a first column of memory cell transistors, and forming a second bit line parallel to the first bit line.
US08389355B2	Semiconductor integrated circuit device having MIM capacitor and method of fabricating the same In a semiconductor integrated circuit device and a method of formation thereof, a semiconductor device comprises: a semiconductor substrate; an insulator at a top portion of the substrate, defining an insulator region; a conductive layer pattern on the substrate, the conductive layer pattern being patterned from a common conductive layer, the conductive layer pattern including a first pattern portion on the insulator in the insulator region and a second pattern portion on the substrate in an active region of the substrate, wherein the second pattern portion comprises a gate of a transistor in the active region; and a capacitor on the insulator in the insulator region, the capacitor including: a lower electrode on the first pattern portion of the conductive layer pattern, a dielectric layer pattern on the lower electrode, and an upper electrode on the dielectric layer pattern.
US08389352B2	Silicon germanium film formation method and structure Epitaxial deposition of silicon germanium in a semiconductor device is achieved without using masks. Nucleation delays induced by interactions with dopants present before deposition of the silicon germanium are used to determine a period over which an exposed substrate surface may be subjected to epitaxial deposition to form a layer of SiGe on desired parts with substantially no deposition on other parts. Dopant concentration may be changed to achieve desired thicknesses within preferred deposition times. Resulting deposited SiGe is substantially devoid of growth edge effects.
US08389349B2	Method of manufacturing a capacitive transducer A method of manufacturing a capacitive transducer by applying a first etching mask on a layer. Applying a second etching mask to define the movable set of fingers, the fixed set of fingers, a body, and springs, and the body is connected to the movable set of fingers and the springs while the movable set of fingers are interdigitated with the fixed set of fingers. Etching the layer and the first etching mask using the second etching mask and removing the second etching mask. Etching the layer such that one of the movable set of fingers and the fixed set of fingers is shorter than the other of the movable set of fingers and the fixed set of fingers. Releasing the body, the springs, and the movable set of fingers using etching, such that, upon applying a force to the body, the body moves parallel to the substrate.
US08389344B2	Methods of manufacturing oxide semiconductor thin film transistor Provided is a method of manufacturing an oxide semiconductor thin film transistor using a transparent oxide semiconductor as a material for a channel. The method of manufacturing the oxide semiconductor thin film transistor includes forming a passivation layer on a channel layer and performing an annealing process for one hour or more at a temperature of about 100° C. or above.
US08389340B2	Methods of forming semiconductor chip underfill anchors Various semiconductor chips and methods of making the same are disclosed. In one aspect, a method of manufacturing is provided that includes forming a first opening in an insulating layer applied to a side of a semiconductor chip. The first opening does not extend through to the side. A second opening is formed in the insulating layer that exposes a portion of the side.
US08389339B2	Method of manufacturing semiconductor device It is aimed at improving the reliability of a semiconductor device.In a POP having an upper package stacked on a lower package, an opening of a first solder resist film in a first region between a first group of lands arranged at the periphery of an front surface of a wiring substrate of the lower package and a second group of lands arranged in a central part is filled with a second solder resist film, and thereby the formation of a starting point of cracks in the opening becomes unlikely to suppress occurrence of cracks and improve the reliability of the POP.
US08389337B2	Patch on interposer assembly and structures formed thereby Methods of forming microelectronic structures are described. Embodiments of those methods include attaching a patch structure to an interposer by thermal compression bonding, forming an underfill around an array of interconnect structures disposed on a top surface of the interposer, curing the underfill, and then attaching a die to the patch structure.
US08389335B2	Chip Scale Package structure with can attachment A chip scale package (CSP) device includes a CSP having a semiconductor die electrically coupled to a plurality of solder balls. A can having an inside top surface and one or more side walls defines a chamber. The CSP is housed in the chamber and is attached to the inside top surface of the can. A printed circuit board is attached to the solder balls and to the one or more side walls to provide support to the CSP and to the can. The CSP may be a Wafer-Level CSP. The can may be built from a metallic substance or from a non-metallic substance. The can provides stress relief to the CSP during a drop test and during a thermal cycle test.
US08389329B2	Integrated circuit packaging system with package stacking and method of manufacture thereof A method of manufacture of an integrated circuit packaging system includes: providing a base package carrier; mounting an interposer over the base package carrier; forming a base package encapsulation over the base package carrier and the interposer with the base package encapsulation having a cavity for exposing the interposer; and forming a support recess in the base package encapsulation between a non-horizontal edge of the base package encapsulation and the cavity.
US08389326B2	Method for manufacturing semiconductor device An object is to manufacture a highly reliable semiconductor device including a thin film transistor with stable electric characteristics. In a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device including a thin film transistor in which an oxide semiconductor film is used for a semiconductor layer including a channel formation region, heat treatment (for dehydration or dehydrogenation) is performed to improve the purity of the oxide semiconductor film and reduce impurities including moisture or the like. After that, slow cooling is performed under an oxygen atmosphere. Besides impurities including moisture or the like exiting in the oxide semiconductor film, heat treatment causes reduction of impurities including moisture or the like exiting in a gate insulating layer and those in interfaces between the oxide semiconductor film and films which are provided over and below the oxide semiconductor and in contact therewith.
US08389324B2	Method of manufacturing solar cell electrode and conductive paste A method of manufacturing a solar cell electrode comprising steps of: applying onto a semiconductor substrate a conductive paste comprising (i) a conductive powder, (ii) a glass frit, (iii) an organic polymer and (iv) an organic solvent comprising 30 to 85 weight percent (wt %) of 1-phenoxy-2-propanol based on the weight of the organic solvent; and firing the conductive paste.
US08389321B2	Protective layer for large-scale production of thin-film solar cells A solar cell includes a substrate, a protective layer located over a first surface of the substrate, a first electrode located over a second surface of the substrate, at least one p-type semiconductor absorber layer located over the first electrode, an n-type semiconductor layer located over the p-type semiconductor absorber layer, and a second electrode over the n-type semiconductor layer. The p-type semiconductor absorber layer includes a copper indium selenide (CIS) based alloy material, and the second electrode is transparent and electrically conductive. The protective layer has an emissivity greater than 0.25 at a wavelength of 2 μm, has a reactivity with a selenium-containing gas lower than that of the substrate, and may differ from the first electrode in at least one of composition, thickness, density, emissivity, conductivity or stress state. The emissivity profile of the protective layer may be uniform or non-uniform.
US08389319B2	SOI-based CMOS imagers employing flash gate/chemisorption processing A method of manufacturing a CMOS image sensor is disclosed. A silicon-on-insulator substrate is provided, which includes providing a silicon-on-insulator substrate including a mechanical substrate, an insulator layer substantially overlying the mechanical substrate, and a seed layer substantially overlying the insulator layer. A semiconductor substrate is epitaxially grown substantially overlying the seed layer. The mechanical substrate and at least a portion of the insulator layer are removed. An ultrathin oxide layer is formed substantially underlying the semiconductor substrate. A mono layer of metal is formed substantially underlying the ultrathin oxide layer.
US08389317B2	MEMS device and method of fabricating the same A micro electrical-mechanical system (MEMS) device comprises a suspended thin film microstructure which includes an anchoring portion adhered to the top surface of the substrate and a suspended portion above the top surface of the substrate. Having a base plane configured in parallel to the substrate, the suspended portion further includes a first recess portion spaced at a first vertical clearance with the substrate, the first vertical clearance being configured differentially smaller than a base clearance of the suspended portion outside the first recess portion. The method for processing a MEMS device includes: depositing a first carbon film, etch-removing a first sacrificial pre-removal portion and an anchor portion of the first carbon film, depositing a second carbon film conformally topping the first carbon film and the substrate, etch-removing the anchor portion of the second carbon film, depositing and patterning the suspended thin film microstructure onto the first carbon film, the second carbon film and the substrate, removing the first carbon film and the second carbon film to release the suspended thin film microstructure above the substrate by selective gaseous oxidation or nitridation preferably enhanced via plasma.
US08389316B2	Strain bars in stressed layers of MOS devices A semiconductor structure includes an active region; a gate strip overlying the active region; and a metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) device. A portion of the gate strip forms a gate of the MOS device. A portion of the active region forms a source/drain region of the MOS device. The semiconductor structure further includes a stressor region over the MOS device; and a stressor-free region inside the stressor region and outside the region over the active region.
US08389315B2	Method for manufacturing display device A method for manufacturing a display device is provided. The method includes forming a circuit part; forming a planarization insulating layer on the circuit part; forming a separator in an area outside a display area in which a plurality of light emitting elements are formed by removing the planarization insulating layer at a position surrounding the display area; forming an electrically-conductive layer including a plurality of first electrodes and an auxiliary interconnect on the planarization insulating layer; forming an aperture-defining insulating layer that insulates the first electrodes from each other and has an aperture through which part of the first electrode is exposed; and forming a plurality of light emitting elements by stacking the first electrode, an organic layer, and a second electrode common to the plurality of light emitting elements.
US08389314B2	MEMS device with roughened surface and method of producing the same A method of producing a MEMS device provides a MEMS apparatus having released structure. The MEMS apparatus is formed at least in part from an SOI wafer having a first layer, a second layer spaced from the first layer, and an insulator layer between the first layer and second layer. The first layer has a top surface, while the second layer has a bottom surface facing the top surface. After providing the MEMS apparatus, the method increases the roughness of at least the top surface of the first layer or the bottom surface of the second layer.
US08389313B2	Deposition method of III group nitride compound semiconductor laminated structure The present invention provides a deposition method of a multilayered structure composed of a III group nitride compound semiconductor having good crystallinity on a substrate. The multilayered structure comprises at least a buffer layer and an underlying layer from the substrate side, and the buffer layer and the underlying layer are formed by a sputtering method. A deposition temperature of the buffer layer is adjusted to a temperature lower than a deposition temperature of the underlying layer, or the thickness of the buffer layer is adjusted to 5 nm to 500 nm. Furthermore, the multilayered structure comprises at least an underlying layer and a light-emissive layer from the substrate side and the underlying layer is formed by a sputtering method, and the method comprises the step of forming the light-emissive layer by a metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD method).
US08389310B2	Method for manufacturing oxide thin film transistor and method for manufacturing display device A method for manufacturing an oxide thin film transistor includes the steps of forming an oxide semiconductor active layer by a deposition process. In the deposition process, a total flow rate of a gas is more than 100 standard cubic centimeters per minute and an electric power is in a range from 1.5 kilowatts to 10 kilowatts. The oxide thin film transistor manufactured by the above methods has advantages of low leakage currents, high electron mobility, and excellent temperature stability. The present invention also provides a method for manufacturing a display device. The display quality of the display device can be improved.
US08389301B2	Non-uniform switching based non-volatile magnetic based memory A non-uniform switching based non-volatile magnetic memory element includes a fixed layer, a barrier layer formed on top of the fixed layer, a first free layer formed on top of the barrier layer, a non-uniform switching layer (NSL) formed on top of the first free layer, and a second free layer formed on top of the non-uniform switching layer. Switching current is applied, in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the fixed layer, barrier layer, first free layer, non-uniform switching layer and the second free layer causing switching between states of the first free layer, second free layer and non-uniform switching layer with substantially reduced switching current.
US08389300B2	Controlling ferroelectricity in dielectric films by process induced uniaxial strain A method of controlling ferroelectric characteristics of integrated circuit device components includes forming a ferroelectrically controllable dielectric layer over a substrate; and forming a stress exerting structure proximate the ferroelectrically controllable dielectric layer such that a substantially uniaxial strain is induced in the ferroelectrically controllable dielectric layer by the stress exerting structure; wherein the ferroelectrically controllable dielectric layer comprises one or more of: a ferroelectric oxide layer and a normally non-ferroelectric material layer that does not exhibit ferroelectric properties in the absence of an applied stress.
US08389299B2	Photonic biosensor arrays This invention relates to photonic biosensor arrays in particular employing plasmon resonance based sensing, and to methods and apparatus for reading such arrays. A biosensor array for plasmon resonance-based sensing of a plurality of different biological targets simultaneously, the array comprising a transparent substrate having a surface bearing a plurality of assay spots for plasmon resonance sensing, each of said assay spots comprising a discrete metallic island, a said metallic island comprising a plurality of metallic nanoparticles to which are attached functionalizing molecules for binding to a said biological target, different said islands bearing different said functionalizing molecules for binding to different ones of said biological targets, and wherein total internal reflection of light at said surface at a wavelength at or near a said plasmon resonance results in scattering of said light away from said surface, said scattering being modulated by said binding of said biological targets.
US08389298B2	Methods using novel chemiluminescent labels Methods using chemiluminescent label compounds and chemiluminescent labeled conjugates are provided. The compounds comprise an acridan ring bearing an exocyclic ketene dithioacetal group and further contain a labeling substituent which permits attachment to compounds of interest. The novel chemiluminescent compounds and labeled conjugates are convenient to prepare, are highly stable, and generate chemiluminescence rapidly on demand. The compounds and conjugates are useful in assays of an analyte in a sample and in assays employing labeled specific binding pairs.
US08389295B2	Avoidance of bouncing and splashing in droplet-based fluid transport A system for fluid transport is provided where a quantity of fluid is held in a reservoir. A droplet generator is employed to generate droplets from the fluid, for example a nozzle-based system or a nozzleless system such as an acoustic ejection system. A generated droplet has a trajectory whereby it arrives at a target. A circuit is used to modify one or more characteristics of the generated droplet in a way which increases the likelihood that the droplet will not splash or bounce when it arrives at the target. The circuit may in different embodiments control the speed of the droplet or the Weber number of the droplet. The circuit may create an electric field in an area of space where the droplet passes. The circuit may charge the droplet by causing it to contact ions.
US08389290B2	Biosensor device for sensing amphipathic analytes The current invention relates to sensing elements and devices comprising at least one amphipathic lipid-binding protein or fatty acid binding protein, wherein the binding proteins are associated with a luminescent reporter group. The binding proteins and luminescent reporter groups are encapsulated within a hydrogel matrix that comprises at least one co-monomer, wherein the co-monomer is present at a concentration that decreases or inhibits micelle formation of the amphipathic lipid. Binding of the amphipathic lipid or fatty acid to the appropriate binding protein can produce at least one detectable change in the property of the luminescent reporter group.
US08389286B2	Cancer-associated antigen The present invention provides a novel cancer-associated antigen that can be used in the treatment and diagnosis of cancer. Further, the invention provides amino acid and nucleic acid sequence of the novel antigen, binding proteins, and immunoconjugates. The invention also relates to diagnostic and therapeutic methods and kits.
US08389285B2	Preparation and optimization of oxygenated gasolines A process for controlling the composition of an xBOB so that the xBOB will yield an oxygenate-containing gasoline which precisely meets desired specifications when mixed with the desired amount of oxygenate. The process involves blending a plurality of blendstocks to produce an xBOB, withdrawing a sample of the xBOB, obtaining spectroscopic measurements for the sample, applying mathematical models that were based on correlation of xBOB spectra to associated oxygenate-containing gasoline properties, to predict laboratory analysis results for oxygenate-containing gasoline properties, and using the analysis results to control and optimize the blending process.
US08389283B2	Methods of obtaining genetic competence in Bacillus cells The present invention relates to methods of obtaining genetic competence in non-competent Bacillus cells for their transformation with exogenous DNA.
US08389278B2	Generation of dendritic cells from monocytic dendritic precursor cells with GM-CSF in the absence of additional cytokines The present invention it was determined that dendritic cells could be derived from various sources including peripheral blood monocytes in the presence of only GM-CSF without other cytokines if the monocytes were not activated. By preventing activation, such as by preventing binding of the cells to the surface of the culture vessel, the monocytes do not require the presence of additional cytokines, such as IL-4 or IL-13, to prevent differentiation into a non-dendritic cell lineage. The immature DCs generated and maintained in this manner were CD14− and expressed high levels of CD1a. Upon maturation by contact with an agent such as, for example, BCG and IFNγ, the cells were determined to express surface molecules typical of mature dendritic cells purified by prior methods and cultured in the presence of GM-CSF and IL-4. The mature dendritic cells produced from monocytes without activation and cultured in GM-CSF alone are suitable for use in dendritic cell-based immunotherapy methods, such as for use in the treatment of disease, including cancer.
US08389277B2	Forming cell structure with transient linker in cage In a method of forming a cellular structure, cells and a transient linker are supplied to a volume partially enclosed by a cage. The linker facilitates initial attachment of adjacent cells to form a cell aggregate. The cage defines distributed openings that are sized to retain the cell aggregate. A fluid comprising a cell culture medium is supplied to the volume. The fluid is withdrawn from the volume through the openings. Aggregated cells retained in the volume are cultured to form a cell structure. A cell culturing device is provided which comprises a conduit and a cage in the conduit. A fluid flows in the conduit. The fluid comprises the cells, the transient linker and the cell culture medium. The cage retains aggregated cells formed in the fluid, and defines distributed openings that allow the fluid to flow through.
US08389272B2	Fluid delivery system and method A method and apparatus for delivering one or more fluids. Fluids may be delivered sequentially from a common vessel to a chemical, biological or biochemical process.
US08389271B2	Method and apparatus for controlling air pressure in an organ or tissue container An organ perfusion apparatus and method monitor, sustain and/or restore viability of organs and preserve organs for storage and/or transport. Other apparatus include an organ transporter, an organ cassette and an organ diagnostic device. The apparatus and methods include the organ cassette with one or more openings configured to allow tubing to pass through the openings and be connected to the organ or tissue within the cassette, and including a pressure control device to allow pressure inside the portable housing to be varied.
US08389268B2	Method and culture medium for enhanced detection of mycobacterium The present invention relates to an improved culture medium and method for the enhanced growth and detection of Mycobacterium growth. The invention further relates to an improved mycobacterial reagent system or kit that can be used for the enhanced growth and detection of Mycobacterium.
US08389265B2	Gene associated with foam formation of acetic acid bacterium, acetic acid bacterium bred by modifying the gene and method for producing vinegar using the acetic acid bacterium The present invention provides a method for reducing or deleting the function of a protein encoded by the glyT gene in an acetic acid-producing bacterium. This method significantly suppresses foam formation during the culture and enhances the acetic acid fermentation ability of the bacterium.
US08389261B2	Method of isolation and purification of trypsin from pronase protease and use thereof The present invention provides methods of isolation and purification of Streptomyces griseus trypsin (SGT) from PRONASE protease mixture in a single affinity chromatography step and uses of the purified SGT.
US08389254B2	Perhydrolase providing improved specific activity An acetyl xylan esterase variant having perhydrolytic activity is provided for producing peroxycarboxylic acids from carboxylic acid esters and a source of peroxygen. More specifically, a Thermotoga maritima acetyl xylan esterase gene was modified using error-prone PCR and site-directed mutagenesis to create an enzyme catalyst characterized by an increase in specific activity. The variant acetyl xylan esterase may be used to produce peroxycarboxylic acids suitable for use in a variety of applications such as cleaning, disinfecting, sanitizing, bleaching, wood pulp processing, and paper pulp processing applications.
US08389250B2	Methods for producing methionine by culturing a microorganism modified to enhance production of cysteine A method of producing methionine, derivatives or precursors thereof comprising culturing a microorganism modified to enhance production of cysteine in a culture medium comprising a source of carbon and a source of sulfur and recovering methionine from the culture medium. A microorganism for fermentative production of methionine or its derivatives in which production of methionine or derivatives thereof, wherein the microorganism enhances production of cysteine.
US08389243B2	Methods of spraying saccharification enzymes and fermentation organisms onto lignocellulosic biomass for hydrolysis and fermentation processes The present invention provides spray methods of delivering saccharification enzymes, fermentation organisms, and other hydrolysis or fermentation ingredients onto lignocellulosic biomass. The methods reduce the need for mechanical mixing when the biomass solids are undergoing enzymatic hydrolysis, and reduce dilution to allow higher product titers in the hydrolysis and/or fermentation steps.
US08389241B2	Enzyme that catalyzes a peptide-forming reaction from a carboxy component and an amine component, microbe producing the same, and a method of producing a dipeptide using the enzyme or microbe DNA and recombinant DNA that encode a peptide-forming enzyme, a method for producing a peptide-forming enzyme, and a method for producing a dipeptide are disclosed. A method for producing a dipeptide includes producing a dipeptide from a carboxy component and an amine component by using a culture of a microbe belonging to the genus Sphingobacterium and having the ability to form the dipeptide from the carboxy component and the amine component, a microbial cell separated from the culture, treated microbial cell product of the microbe or a peptide-forming enzyme derived from the microbe.
US08389240B2	Method for producing α-L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine-β-ester and method for producing α-L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine-α-methyl ester A method of producing an α-L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine-β-ester by forming the α-L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine-β-ester from L-aspartic acid-α,β-diester and L-phenylalanine using an enzyme or enzyme-containing substance that has an ability to selectively link L-phenylalanine to an α-ester site of the L-aspartic acid-α,β-diester through a peptide bond.
US08389238B2	Long-term in vivo transgene expression Efficient and prolonged hCFTR expression is one of the major obstacles for cystic fibrosis lung therapy. hCFTR mRNA expression levels depend on eukaryotic expression cassette components, prokaryotic backbone elements, and the gene transfer method may also influence transcriptional silencing mechanisms. A codon-optimized and CpG-reduced human CFTR gene (CO-CFTR) was made. Various vector modifications were tested to facilitate extended duration of CO-CFTR expression. Insertion of an extended 3′BGH transcribed sequence (712 bp) in an inverted orientation produced prolonged expression of CO-CFTR expression at biologically relevant levels. Further studies revealed that prolonged CO-CFTR expression is dependant on the orientation of the extended BGH 3′ BGH transcribed sequence and its transcription, is not specific to the UbC promoter, and is less dependent on other vector backbone elements.
US08389234B2	Kits for the detection of beta-lactamases Presented herein are kits for the detection of specific beta-lactamases, including class A serine carbapenemases, metallo-beta-lactamases, AmpC beta-lactamases, and extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs). The kits presented herein include kits that permit the detection of the presence of specific beta-lactamases in bacterial samples within as few as 2 to 10 minutes.
US08389230B2	Immunoassay analyzer and immunoassay method The present invention provides an immunoassay analyzer capable of discriminating between normal coloring due to a specific immunoreaction and abnormal coloring due to a cause other than the specific immunoreaction in a measurement region of a sample analysis tool. An immunoassay analyzer 1 of the present invention includes an optical detection unit 4 and a determination unit 5. The optical detection unit 4 includes an optical signal measurement unit for measuring an optical signal at each of two or more different wavelengths including a main wavelength for detecting color change due to the specific immunoreaction and a sub-wavelength(s) other than the main wavelength. The determination unit 5 includes a discrimination unit for comparing the respective optical signals at the two or more different wavelengths and discriminating between the color change due to the specific immunoreaction and color change due to a cause other than the specific immunoreaction based on a comparison criterion determined previously.
US08389227B2	Method for diagnosing cancers expressing the HER2 receptor or its truncated variants The present invention relates to a method of diagnosis and therapy of cancers expressing the HER2 receptor.The invention provides antibodies or fragments thereof that recognizes an epitope of a HER2 receptor truncated form, said epitope being defined by a sequence included in SEQ ID NO: 2.The invention also provides a method of cancer diagnosis, which comprises the detection of the presence of the HER2 receptor truncated form consisting of the amino acid sequence SEQ ID NO: 1 in a patient sample.
US08389226B2	Methods and compositions for diagnosis, stratification, and monitoring of alzheimer's disease and other neurological disorders in body fluids The inventors have discovered a collection of proteinaceous biomarkers (“AD biomarkers) which can be measured in peripheral biological fluid samples to aid in the diagnosis of neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The invention further provides methods of identifying candidate agents for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease by testing prospective agents for activity in modulating AD biomarker levels.
US08389225B2	Bio-silica chip comprising silica binding protein and method for fabricating the same The present invention relates to a bio-silica chip comprising a silica-binding protein and a fabrication method thereof, and more particularly to a bio-silica chip in which a fusion protein of a silica-binding protein and a probe protein is immobilized on a chip comprising a silica layer, a fabrication method thereof and a method of using the bio-silica chip to detect interactions with biomaterials. The bio-silica chip will be very useful in biosensors, etc., because the bio-silica chip is advantageous in that it does not cause non-specific protein binding in the detection of protein-DNA, protein-ligand, protein-antibody, protein-peptide, protein-carbohydrate, protein-protein and cell-biomaterial interactions. Also, in the method for fabricating the bio-silica chip, a probe chip can be selectively immobilized on a silica device chip, which is widely used in biosensors, without a chemical surface treatment process. Thus, a chip fabricating process is simplified and a complicated process for purifying the probe protein becomes unnecessary, thus providing great improvements in productivity and economic efficiency.
US08389224B2	Assay for analysis of free drug in samples Whole cell, simultaneous target and drug-target assay using differentially labeled antibodies and flow cytometry. First antibody binds to total target and second antibody binds to the drug binding site of the target, thus drug binding will competitively inhibit the second antibody allowing for a competitive inhibition assay of drug-target binding. The assay allows for whole cell analysis and even analysis of mixed populations of cells, yet provides detailed kinetic assessment of drug activity.
US08389222B2	Apolipoprotein fingerprinting technique and methods related thereto A method for determining the concentration and modifications of apolipoprotein in biological samples including plasma, serum, and lipoprotein fractions, by obtaining a sample from a patient, adding a specific volume of an internal standard to the sample, applying the sample to a surface-enhanced, Protein G-coated, antibody-bound chip and removing unbound sample components, analyzing the sample by mass spectrometry, determining the concentration of the apolipoprotein using values of internal standards, and evaluating the concentration of the apolipoprotein, its isoforms, amino acid substitutions and modifications for use as a tool for diagnosing cancer, diabetes, stroke, stress, Alzheimer's disease, inflammation, neurological disease and cardiovascular diseases.
US08389221B2	Method of detecting H5 or H7 avian influenza virus The present invention provides oligonucleotide primers specifically hybridizing to an arbitrary nucleotide sequence designed from the nucleotide sequence of hemagglutinin of an H5 or H7 avian influenza virus, a nucleic acid amplification method using the primers, a method for diagnosis of infection with an H5 or H7 avian influenza virus by detection of nucleic acid amplification, and a kit for influenza diagnosis.
US08389220B2	Method for detecting a recombinant event Methods relating to isolating and amplifying chimeric nucleic acid molecules are provided. The methods of the invention are useful for detecting chromosome translocation events associated with diseases or conditions, such as cancer.
US08389219B2	Detection of nucleic acids by type-specific hybrid capture method Target-specific hybrid capture (TSHC) provides a nucleic acid detection method that is not only rapid and sensitive, but also highly specific and capable of discriminating highly homologous nucleic acid sequences. The method produces DNA/RNA hybrids which can be detected by a variety of methods.
US08389217B2	Human papilloma virus (HPV) detection using nucleic acid probes, microbeads and fluorescent-activated cell sorter (FACS) The present invention relates generally to the field of diagnostic and detection assays. More particularly, the present invention provides methods, and reagents including biochips for detecting the presence of, or distinguishing between, one or more analytes in a sample.
US08389216B2	Methods for nucleic acid manipulation A method for replicating and amplifying a target nucleic acid sequence is described. A method of the invention involves the formation of a recombination intermediate without the prior denaturing of a nucleic acid duplex through the use of a recombination factor. The recombination intermediate is treated with a high fidelity polymerase to permit the replication and amplification of the target nucleic acid sequence. In preferred embodiments, the polymerase comprises a polymerase holoenzyme. In further preferred embodiments, the recombination factor is bacteriophage T4 UvsX protein or homologs from other species, and the polymerase holoenzyme comprises a polymerase enzyme, a clamp protein and a clamp loader protein, derived from viral, bacteriophage, prokaryotic, archaebacterial, or eukaryotic systems.
US08389215B2	Non-invasive recovery of RNA and analysis of gene expression in skin A liquid is placed on an area of skin in which an RNA sample is to be extracted. The liquid is configured to harden which allows for the hardened material to be peeled off. In some implementations, a substrate is attached to the liquid before it hardens to facilitate removal of the skin sample.
US08389213B2	Method for concentration of gene The present invention provides a method where it is possible to concentrate the gene which is expressed only in small amount from a mixture of the gene being expressed in large amount and the gene being expressed only in small amount even when the gene being expressed in large amount is unknown.
US08389209B2	Test device for rapid diagnostics Devices for detecting analytes or analogues thereof in a biological sample are disclosed. The device includes a solid support. The solid support has several juxtaposed zones. The sample is able to migrate from a sample receiving zone towards a detection zone. The analyte, if present, is detected in the detection zone. Both zones have material allowing a capillary flow of the sample through the zones. In between the zones, there is an intermediate zone of transport of the sample which is free from any capillary material. This allows the ample to migrate by gravitational forces on the support laid in a vertical position. Methods for detecting analytes or analogues thereof in a biological sample using the device are also disclosed.
US08389208B2	Biological indicator A kinase is used in a biological indicator for validation of treatment processes designed to reduce the amount or activity of a biological agent in a sample. The indication can be used for validation of sterilization treatment. The formation of ATP from a substrate comprising ADP is measured via the liciferin/luciferate system in a luminameter. Thermostable adenylate kinase from sulfolobus acidocaldarius is especially suitable for the validation of procedures to inactivate transmissible spongiform encephalopathy agents.
US08389207B2	Methods for identifying candidate fat-mobilizing agents Disclosed herein are methods for identifying agents capable of affecting the expression, posttranslational modification, and/or an activity of TRB3, for example, in adipose tissue and/or adipocytes. Such agents are useful, for example, to mobilize fat stores and as prospective obesity therapeutics.
US08389205B2	Patterning nano-scale patterns on a film comprising unzipping polymer chains The invention concerns a method for patterning a surface of a material. A substrate having a polymer film thereon is provided. The polymer is a selectively reactive polymer (e.g. thermodynamically unstable): it is able to unzip upon suitable stimulation. A probe is used to create patterns on the film. During the patterning, the film is locally stimulated for unzipping polymer chains. Hence, a basic idea is to provide a stimulus to the polymeric material, which in turn spontaneously decomposes e.g. into volatile constituents. For example, the film is thermally stimulated in order to break a single bond in a polymer chain, which is sufficient to trigger the decomposition of the entire polymer chain.
US08389204B2	Method for producing comb-shaped electrode To provide a method for producing a comb-shaped electrode capable of precisely carrying a large amount of active materials on a surface of current collectors with a fine shape. The method for producing comb-shaped electrodes 1a, 1b of the present invention includes a current collector forming step of forming a pair of comb-shaped current collectors 2a, 2b on a surface of a substrate 4, a resist coating step of forming a resist layer 6 on the surface of the substrate 4, and a guide hole forming step of forming guide holes 7a, 7b for forming a positive electrode 1a or a negative electrode 1b, in which a cationic polymerization type resist composition (i), a novolak type resist composition (ii), a chemically-amplified type resist composition (iii), or a radical polymerization type resist composition (iv), is used as a resist composition for forming the resist layer 6.
US08389199B2	Lithographic imaging with printing members having metal imaging bilayers Printing members include very thin metal imaging bilayers that combine to trap and utilize imaging radiation and, due to their minimal thicknesses, ablate easily. The bilayer may include a first (bottommost) metal layer having a high extinction coefficient in the imaging wavelength range (e.g., 600-1200 nm) and, thereover, a second metal layer having a high transmittance and low emissivity for imaging radiation.
US08389197B2	Compound, positive resist composition and resist pattern forming method The present invention provides a positive resist composition and a resist pattern forming method that are capable of forming a resist pattern with a reduced level of roughness. The positive resist composition includes the compound represented by the general formula (I) below. The present invention also provides the resist pattern forming method using the positive resist composition above. [wherein, in formula (I), R11 and R12 each represents, independently, an alkyl group of 1 to 10 carbon atoms or an aromatic hydrocarbon group, and may include a hetero atom in the structure thereof; R21 to R24 each represents, independently, a hydrogen atom or an acid dissociable, dissolution inhibiting group, and two of the R21 to R24 represents a hydrogen atom and the others represents an acid dissociable, dissolution inhibiting group; X is a group represented by general formulas (Ia) or (Ib) below].
US08389192B2	Electrophotographic carrier, electrophotographic developer, process cartridge and image forming device An electrophotographic carrier includes a magnetic core material and a resin layer that coats the magnetic core material, the resin layer comprising a resistance control agent and a polymer including a repeating unit derived from an alicyclic group-containing methacrylic ester, the resin layer including a monomer as a base material of the repeating unit in the polymer in an amount of from about 0.5% by weight to about 3.0% by weight relative to the total amount of the resin layer.
US08389185B2	Pigment dispersion, colored curable composition, color filter and method of manufacturing the same There are provide a pigment dispersion containing (A) a halogenated zinc phthalocyanine pigment, and (B) a copolymer of at least (b-1) a monomer having at least one group selected from an amino group and a nitrogen-containing heterocyclic group, (b-2) a monomer having a carboxyl group, and (b-3) a macromonomer having a weight-average molecular weight from 1,000 to 50,000, a colored curable composition containing the pigment dispersion, a color filter using the colored curable composition and a method for preparing the same.
US08389182B2	Bipolar plate with reduced coolant volume and asymmetric heat removal A bipolar plate assembly is described. The coolant passage on either the anode side or the cathode side includes a material having a low thermal conductivity. Fuel cells containing the bipolar plate assembly and methods of making the bipolar plate assembly are also described.
US08389178B2	Electrochemical energy storage device based on carbon dioxide as electroactive species An electrochemical energy storage device comprising a primary positive electrode, a negative electrode, and one or more ionic conductors. The ionic conductors ionically connect the primary positive electrode with the negative electrode. The primary positive electrode comprises carbon dioxide (CO2) and a means for electrochemically reducing the CO2. This means for electrochemically reducing the CO2 comprises a conductive primary current collector, contacting the CO2, whereby the CO2 is reduced upon the primary current collector during discharge. The primary current collector comprises a material to which CO2 and the ionic conductors are essentially non-corrosive. The electrochemical energy storage device uses CO2 as an electroactive species in that the CO2 is electrochemically reduced during discharge to enable the release of electrical energy from the device.
US08389176B2	Polymer membrane composition for fuel cell, polymer membrane prepared therefrom, membrane-electrode assembly, fuel cell including the same, and associated methods A polymer membrane composition for a fuel cell, a polymer membrane prepared therefrom, a membrane electrode assembly, a fuel cell including the same, and associated methods, the polymer membrane composition including a polymer, the polymer including a cation exchange group and a carbon double-bond-containing cross-linkable group, a (meth)acryl-based compound, the (meth)acryl-based compound including a cation exchange group, and a polymerization initiator.
US08389169B2	Hydrogen generator and fuel cell system with the same A hydrogen generator includes a water storage container for storing water, a reaction container for receiving a solid fuel that is a mixture of a complex metal hydride and catalysts, and a water supplying source that is connected between the water storage container and the reaction container to supply the water to the reaction container.
US08389167B2	Detection of cell-to-cell variability in water holdup using pattern recognition techniques A system and method for preventing low performing cells in a fuel cell stack. The method includes periodically providing a pulse of the cathode input airflow at low stack current densities, and comparing the current density output of each cell in response to the pulse. Those cells that do not have significant water accumulation will provide one voltage signature and those cells that do have a significant water accumulation will provide another voltage signature. If one or more of the cells exhibit the voltage signature for water accumulation, then the cathode inlet airflow pulses can be provided more often to prevent the cells from failing.
US08389161B2	Nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery and method for fabricating the same A nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery includes a positive electrode 4 including a positive electrode current collector and a positive electrode mixture layer including a positive electrode active material and a binder, the positive electrode mixture layer being provided on the positive electrode current collector, a negative electrode 5, a porous insulating layer 6 interposed between the positive electrode 4 and the negative electrode 5, and a nonaqueous electrolyte. The tensile extension of the positive electrode 4 is equal to or higher than 3.0%. The charge end voltage in normal operation of the nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery is equal to or higher than 4.3 V.
US08389160B2	Positive electrode materials for lithium ion batteries having a high specific discharge capacity and processes for the synthesis of these materials Positive electrode active materials are described that have a very high specific discharge capacity upon cycling at room temperature and at a moderate discharge rate. Some materials of interest have the formula Li1+xNiαMnβCOγO2, where x ranges from about 0.05 to about 0.25, α ranges from about 0.1 to about 0.4, β ranges from about 0.4 to about 0.65, and γ ranges from about 0.05 to about 0.3. The materials can be coated with a metal fluoride to improve the performance of the materials especially upon cycling. Also, the coated materials can exhibit a very significant decrease in the irreversible capacity lose upon the first charge and discharge of the cell. Methods for producing these materials include, for example, a co-precipitation approach involving metal hydroxides and sol-gel approaches.
US08389151B2	Battery unit A battery unit includes a casing, bipolar batteries as a plurality of stacked type batteries housed in the casing, and a plug. The bipolar battery is formed by stacking a plurality of battery elements each having sheet electrodes on opposite sides of an electrolyte, and has collectors. The plug is detachably inserted between the bipolar batteries, and electrically connects bipolar batteries.
US08389148B2	Separator for cylindrical cells Separator for cylindrical cell of the outwardly guided type, wherein a sheet material is wound around a mandrel, and starting from the winding step until the insertion of a separator into the cell, an outward support is used that renders the binding of neighboring turns of the separator winding unnecessary, and the separator sheet has an extended portion, with the extension being at least equal to the radius of the separator cylinder, and with this extended portion being wetted with distilled or de-ionized water until the material softens and the winding and the mandrel are rotated and the bottom part is folded back and heat fused to close the separator cylinder.
US08389142B2	Method and apparatus for the external application of a battery pack adhesive A method and apparatus for simplifying battery pack assembly that allows inspection of the cell-to-housing bonding region is provided. In particular, a battery pack housing member is provided that includes an interior surface that partially defines the interior region of the battery pack and that includes a plurality of cell mounting wells and an exterior surface that includes a plurality of bonding wells. Adhesive introduced into the bonding wells forms a mechanical bond between an exterior surface of a cell introduced into an adjacent cell mounting well and the housing member.
US08389139B2	Integrated battery pressure relief and terminal isolation system A system for integrating the venting feature of a battery with a means for simultaneously disconnecting the cell from the battery pack, thereby isolating the cell, is provided. The provided battery interconnect system is comprised of a battery, a connector plate for electrically coupling the battery to a battery pack, and an interruptible electrical connector for electrically coupling the connector plate to a battery terminal vent. The venting region, defined by scoring on the battery terminal, ruptures when the internal battery pressure exceeds the predefined battery operating range, causing the interruptible electrical connector to break and disrupt electrical continuity between the connector plate and the battery terminal.
US08389137B2	Method of reusing rechargeable battery A method of reusing a rechargeable battery includes collecting from users assembled batteries formed by rechargeable batteries, each holding initial individual information including at least a manufacturing date and an initial weight of the rechargeable battery. The collected assembled batteries are dismantled into rechargeable batteries, each holding the individual information. The rechargeable batteries of the dismantled assembled batteries are classified into groups based on the initial individual information of the rechargeable batteries and individual information of the plurality of rechargeable batteries obtained after the dismantling. A regenerated assembled battery is rebuilt reusing rechargeable batteries that have been classified into the same group.
US08389136B2	Gas flow control assembly for use with fuel cell systems operating on fuels with varying fuel composition A gas flow control assembly for use in a fuel cell system comprising an airflow control assembly for adjusting flow of air to a cathode side of the fuel cell system based on content variations in an exhaust gas leaving an anode side of the system and a fuel flow control assembly for controlling flow of fuel to the anode side based on adjustment to the airflow by the airflow control assembly.
US08389135B2	Oxide sintered body, target, transparent conductive film obtained by using the same, and transparent conductive substrate An oxide sintered body having zinc oxide as a main component and containing magnesium, and a transparent conductive substrate are provided, and an oxide sintered body having zinc oxide and magnesium, wherein content of magnesium is from 0.02 to 0.30 as atom number ratio of Mg/(Zn+Mg); an oxide sintered body having zinc oxide, magnesium, gallium and/or aluminum, wherein content of gallium and/or aluminum is over 0 and equal to or lower than 0.09 as atom number ratio of (Ga+Al)/(Zn+Ga+Al), and content of magnesium is from 0.02 to 0.30 as atom number ratio of Mg/(Zn+Ga+Al+Mg); a target obtained by processing these oxide sintered bodies; and a transparent conductive film formed on a substrate by a sputtering method or an ion plating method, by using this target.
US08389128B2	High tensile-strength galvanized steel sheet and process for manufacturing high tensile-strength galvanized steel sheet A high tensile-strength galvanized steel sheet includes C: at least 0.05% but less than 0.12%, Si: at least 0.01% but less than 0.35%, Mn: 2.0% to 3.5%, P: 0.001% to 0.020%, S: 0.0001% to 0.0030%, Al: 0.005% to 0.1%, N: 0.0001% to 0.0060%, Cr: more than 0.5% but not more than 2.0%, Mo: 0.01% to 0.50%, Ti: 0.010% to 0.080%, Nb: 0.010% to 0.080%, and B: 0.0001% to 0.0030%, the remainder being Fe and unavoidable impurities, wherein the high tensile-strength galvanized steel sheet has a microstructure that contains 20% to 70% by volume ferrite having an average grain size of 5 μm or less. The high tensile-strength galvanized steel sheet has a tensile strength of at least 980 MPa, and excellent formability and weldability.
US08389126B2	Surface treatment of amorphous coatings A structural component suitable for use as refinery and/or petrochemical process equipment and piping is provided. The structural component has improved corrosion, abrasion, environmental degradation resistance, and fire resistant properties with a substrate coated with a surface-treated amorphous metal layer. The surface of the structural component is surface treated with an energy source to cause a diffusion of at least a portion of the amorphous metal layer and at least a portion of the substrate, forming a diffusion layer disposed on a substrate. The diffusion layer has a negative hardness profile with the hardness increasing from the diffusion surface in contact with the substrate to the surface away from the substrate.
US08389125B2	Formaldehyde scavenger and wood material using same Provided are a formaldehyde scavenger capable of providing excellent formaldehyde scavenging performance without discoloring a wood material and not reemitting formaldehyde, and a wood material using the same.The formaldehyde scavenger contains urea, ammonium phosphate monobasic and ammonium phosphate dibasic. The formaldehyde scavenger contains urea, ammonium phosphate monobasic and ammonium phosphate dibasic preferably in a weight ratio of urea/ammonium phosphate monobasic/ammonium phosphate dibasic in the range of 5 to 45/0.5 to 15/1 to 20, and further preferably in a weight ratio of urea/ammonium phosphate monobasic/ammonium phosphate dibasic in the range of 10 to 35/1 to 10/2 to 15. The wood material is prepared by applying the formaldehyde scavenger thereto. The formaldehyde scavenger is preferably applied in the range of 1 to 50 g/m2 by dry weight.
US08389124B2	Azo compound and dye polarizing film containing the same Disclosed is an azo compound represented by the formula (1) or (2) below, or a salt thereof. (In the formulae, A represents a substituted phenyl group or a naphthyl group having 1-3 sulfonic acid groups; X represents —N═N— or —NHCO—; R1-R4 independently represent a hydrogen atom, a lower alkyl group or a lower alkoxyl group; m represents a number of 1-3; and n represents 0 or 1.)
US08389123B2	Material for forming electroless plate, coating solution for adhering catalyst, method for forming electroless plate, and plating method A material for forming electroless plate comprising a non-conductive base material and a catalyst adhering layer provided on the non-conductive base material is constituted so that the catalyst adhering layer should comprise a hydrophilic (meth)acrylic resin constituted with a hydrophilic monomer and a hydrophobic monomer and containing the hydrophobic monomer at a ratio of 50 to 90 mol %. This material for forming electroless plate shows favorable catalyst adhering property, and shows no delamination of the catalyst adhering layer from the non-conductive base material, no dissolution of the catalyst adhering layer into a plating solution, and no discoloration of plate layer during the catalyst adhering step, development step and other steps.
US08389119B2	Composite thermal interface material including aligned nanofiber with low melting temperature binder A thermal interface material includes a mechanically compliant vertically aligned nanofiber film and a binder material for joining the nanofibers of the film to the surfaces of two substrates. Preferably, the binder material comprises a non-hydrocarbon-based material such as a metallic eutectic with a melting temperature below a nanofiber thermal damage threshold temperature of the film. The film is grown on a substrate which is then bonded to another substrate by the binder material in an adhesion process that may include pressure and heat. Alternatively, the film may be released from the substrate to produce a stand-alone thermal tape which may later be placed between two substrates and bonded.
US08389117B2	Hot melt adhesives for roll-applied labels Disclosed are hot-melt adhesives prepared from polyesters containing 1,4-cyclohexane-dicarboxylic acid as a diacid component and a diol component containing at least two diols chosen from 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol, triethylene glycol, and diethylene glycol. These adhesives set up rapidly within a well-defined temperature window. The hot-melt adhesives can be used in a variety of applications, but are especially suited as seaming adhesives for roll-applied labels. These adhesives have melting temperatures and crystallization properties that allow their application at temperatures cool enough to prevent curling and premature shrinkage of the shrink label during seaming, and yet produce strong label seams that can withstand the elevated temperatures of a shrink tunnel without sacrificing line speed. Also disclosed are labeled containers and a process for applying a roll-on, shrink label to a container using the hot-melt adhesives of the invention.
US08389116B2	Photosensitive resin composition Problem to be SolvedTo provide a photosensitive resin composition which has good processability even in a relatively low temperature condition near room temperature and exhibits good efficiency in removing debris generated while shaping a printing plate by laser engraving.SolutionA photosensitive resin composition, characterized by comprising: (a) 100 parts by mass of a resin having a number average molecular weight of 1,000 or more; and (b) 0.1 to 10 parts by mass of ultrafine particles having a number average particle diameter of primary particles of 5 nm or more and 100 nm or less; wherein the photosensitive resin composition has a viscosity at 20° C. of 50 Pa·s or more and 10,000 Pa·s or less; and a precursor composition, which is obtained by excluding the component (b) from the photosensitive resin composition, has a viscosity at 20° C. of 5 Pa·s or more and 500 Pa·s or less.
US08389114B2	Ultrahydrophobic substrates Disclosed is a process for modification of a substrate so as to form an ultrahydrophobic surface on the substrate. Also disclosed are surface-modified substrates that can be formed according to the disclosed processes. The process includes attachment of a multitude of nano- and/or submicron-sized structures to a surface to provide increased surface roughness. In addition, the process includes grafting a hydrophobic material to the surface in order to decrease the surface energy and decrease wettability of the surface. The combination of increase surface roughness and decreased surface energy can provide an ultrahydrophobic surface on the treated substrate.
US08389108B2	Surface coated cutting tool A surface-coated cutting tool of the present invention includes a substrate and a coated layer formed on the substrate, and the coated layer is a physical-vapor-deposition layer having a thickness of 10 μm or more. A surface region having a thickness of 1 μm from a surface of the coated layer includes a first region whose integrated residual stress is a compressive stress and a second region whose integrated residual stress is a tensile stress, and the integrated residual stress of the surface region falls within the range of −1.5 to 1.5 GPa in any region included in the surface region.
US08389107B2	Cellulosic biolaminate composite assembly and related methods Cellulosic biolaminate assemblies are provided. In one embodiment, a biolaminate structure is provided comprising a first cellulosic layer, a second cellulosic layer, and a first bio-based polymer. The first bio-based polymer impregnates the first cellulosic layer and the second cellulosic layer. The first cellulosic layer and the second cellulosic layer are fused together.
US08389095B2	Optical data storage media containing substantially inert low melting temperature data layer Optical information media that contain a data layer material that is substantially inert to oxidation and has a defined melting point range are disclosed. The inertness to oxidation and melting point range make the media particularly attractive for long-term information storage.
US08389091B2	Wrap film container and label adapted for use for the container and used for film holding section A wrapping film container, including: an elongated container body for housing therein a rolled self-tacky wrapping film, an opening provided to the container body along a longitudinal direction of the container body for pulling out a portion of the wrapping film therethrough, cutting means for cutting the pulled-out portion of the wrapping film and a film-holding section provided on a front face of the container body for preventing re-winding to an inside of the container, wherein the film-holding section comprises a laminate structure including a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, a substrate layer, an adhesive layer and a self-tacky film layer, disposed sequentially from the container body side. The film-holding section is efficiently formed on the front face of the container body by using a label for forming film-holding section of a wrapping film container having a laminate structure including a self-tacky film layer, an adhesives layer, a base material layer, a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer and a separator layer, disposed sequentially from one side thereof, and exhibits a stable and consistent film-holding power.
US08389088B2	Tubular conduit A tubular conduit (1) is disclosed. The tubular conduit comprises a tubular portion made from a flexible material and an axially extending external helical formation (16) located around the outside of the tubular portion. The external helical formation (16) is for supporting the tubular portion. Optionally the tubular portion also comprises an axially extending internal helical protrusion (15), which imparts a helical flow to a fluid passing through the tubular portion. It is preferred that the tubular conduit (1) is a vascular graft.
US08389087B2	Barrier layer arrangement for tank systems A barrier layer arrangement for tank systems includes at least one layer made of a material that has anisotropic properties. The anisotropic properties can be specifically adjusted by way of the design of the layer and/or the material parameters.
US08389085B2	Preform for stretch blow-molded bottle A preform having an inverted truncated conical bottom section is used. The inclined inner surface of a bottle bottom surface-forming portion of the bottom section is formed into a gently curved convex surface that extends from the lower portion of a bottle bottom edge-forming portion of the bottom section to a curved portion in the lower portion of the bottom section so that the thickness of the bottle bottom surface-forming portion is greater than the thickness of the barrel section of the preform and the thickness of the bottle bottom edge-forming portion. The increase in thickness of the bottom section improves the efficiency of stretching the bottom section, and the circumferential wall of the bottom section can thereby be efficiently stretched. This allows a reduction in weight (thickness) of the bottom surface section of a stretch blow molded bottle, and a reduction in weight of the bottle is thereby achieved.
US08389083B2	Polymer coatings with catalyst for medical devices Coating compositions and coatings for medical devices formed from the coating compositions that include a catalyst in a support polymer, where the support polymer helps to support and retain the catalyst in the coating on the medical device. The catalyst in the support polymer can act to chemically bond specific compounds migrating from a body of the medical device formed from a polymer to at least one of the polymer and/or other specific compounds migrating from the body of the medical device.
US08389080B2	Label-wrapped foam cups with patterned adhesive A label-wrapped foam cups combines a label in the shape of an annular section with a foam cup having a frusto-conical shape by wrapping the label around a foam cup and securing the label to the foam cup with a patterned adhesive. Text and graphics are printed on a front surface of the labels and a patterned adhesive is printed on a back surface of the labels. The patterned adhesive includes discontinuous deposits of adhesive that bond the label to the foam cup and form corresponding undulations in the front surface of the label. The adhesive pattern can be printed in registry with the text and graphics to provided enhanced visual effects.
US08389079B2	Paperboard-based beverage container A container including at least one wall that defines an internal volume and an opening into the internal volume, the wall defining an internal surface and an external surface and being formed as a layered structure that includes a first layer, a second layer that includes paperboard and defines the external surface, and an adhesive layer disposed between the first layer and the second layer, wherein at most 0.15 grams of surface condensation forms on the wall per 300 square centimeters of the external surface during a 20-minute interval, the 20-minute interval beginning upon filling 75 percent of the internal volume with a liquid maintained at a temperature of about 32° F. while the filled container is exposed to an ambient temperature of about 73° F. and about 50 percent relative humidity.
US08389065B2	Roll coating apparatus and method for producing a coated metal strip There is provided a roll coating apparatus and method for producing a coated metal strip. The roll coating apparatus presses a roll against the surface of a metal strip and coats the metal strip with a coating fluid, and is capable of adequately adjusting the pressure force of the roll so that it is uniform in the width direction of the roll, while maintaining the overall rigidity of stands that support the roll. A connecting member 15 connects an applicator roll support unit 11a in a right stand 1a and an applicator roll support unit 11b in a left stand 1b, and a connecting member movement mechanism 16a is provided between the right end of the connecting member 15 and the applicator roll support unit 11a in the right stand 1a, making it possible for the connecting member 15 to move in the direction of pressure against the metal strip.
US08389060B2	Process for preparing structured organic films (SOFs) via a pre-SOF A processes for preparing structured organic film (SOF) comprising a plurality of segments and a plurality of linkers arranged as a covalent organic framework, wherein the structured organic film may be a multi-segment thick structured organic film by reaction of a pre-SOF.
US08389047B2	Low-cost hydrophilic treatment method for assembled PEMFC stacks A method for depositing a hydrophilic coating on flow field plates or bipolar plates and manifolds in a fuel cell stack after the stack is assembled. The method includes preparing a solution that contains hydrophilic nano-particles suspended in a suitable solvent. The cathode and anode inlet and outlet manifolds and the cathode and anode flow channels are filled with the solution. The solution is then pumped out of the stack using, for example, a stream of nitrogen. The stack is allowed to dry, using heat if desirable, to provide a film of the nano-particles formed on the anode and cathode flow channels and manifolds within the stack.
US08389044B2	Poly(ester amide)-based drug delivery systems with controlled release rate and morphology A method of forming a coating on a medical device having a controlled morphology is described. A method of treating a disorder in a patient using the medical device is described.
US08389039B2	Process for preparing bioactive protein-enriched whey products The present invention involves the discovery that various liquid (whey) streams drained or expelled from cheese curd after salt addition in the preparation of cheese contain enriched levels of bioactive proteins such as lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase, immunoglobulins, and growth factors. According to the invention, these proteins may be further enriched through manipulation of the cheese salting process as described herein. The methods of the invention may be used to produce various whey products with enriched levels of all the above bioactive proteins present and, through manipulation of salting conditions, to enrich these proteins selectively.
US08389037B2	Preservation of organic liquids A method is provided for preserving cooking oil which may be cold or heated or during frying operations, which comprises in situtreatment of the oil withat least one oil-permeable cement body which has been hydraulically hardened from a paste comprising cement clinker and cement e.g. white OPC clinker and white OPC. The invention further comprises cooking oil having therein at least one oil-permeable cement body which has been hydraulically hardened from a paste comprising cement clinker and cement and an oil-permeable cement body for use in the above method.
US08389034B2	Chewable pouch for flavored product delivery Provided is a disintegrable or non-disintegrable oral flavor delivery product. The product includes a disintegrable or non-disintegrable chewable pouch with a plurality of perforations. The pouch encloses a non-tobacco flavor product that can be in a gel, semi-liquid, and/or liquid form. A user chews, sucks, and/or manipulates the pouch to cause the enclosed flavor product to leach out of the perforations into the user's mouth.
US08389032B2	Delivery system for active components as part of an edible composition having selected particle size A delivery system for inclusion in an edible composition is formulated to have at least one active component with an encapsulating material for delivering the active component upon consumption of the edible composition.
US08389021B2	Bismuth-thiols as antiseptics for epithelial tissues, acute and chronic wounds, bacterial biofilms and other indications Compositions and methods, including novel homogeneous microparticulate suspensions, are described for treating acute wounds, chronic wounds and/or a wound or epithelial tissue surface that contains bacterial biofilm, including unexpected synergy between bismuth-thiol (BT) compounds and certain antibiotics, to provide topical formulations including antiseptic formulations, for management and promotion of wound healing and in particular infected wounds. Previously unpredicted antibacterial properties and anti-biofilm properties of disclosed BT compounds and BT compound-plus-antibiotic combinations are also described, including preferential efficacies of certain such compositions for treating gram-positive bacterial infections, and distinct preferential efficacies of certain such compositions for treating gram-negative bacterial infections.
US08389018B2	Nano/macroporous bioactive glasses made by melt-quench methods The methods and materials described herein provide novel and simple procedures for the preparation of nano/macroporous glasses, in which the pore structure is characterized by interconnected pores of, e.g. both hundreds of micrometers and several to tens of nanometers in size. Such materials may be used for enhanced bone regeneration, bioscaffolds, drug delivery devices, and filtration media, among other uses. For example, silica-based bone tissue scaffolds are made with a controlled nano/macroporosity, which enhances bone regeneration performance. Also provided herein are new biocompatible CaO—Na2O—P2O5—SiO2 glasses prepared by thermal melt-quench methods that result in spinodal phase separation and crystallization of phases at very different length scales. Selective chemical leaching of these phases causes formation of interconnected multi-modal porosity, with pore sizes ranging from several nanometers to tens of micrometers.
US08389016B2	Use of a CD28 binding substance for making a pharmaceutical composition The invention relates to the use of a CD28-specific superagonistic monoclonal antibody (mAb) or of a mimicry compound hereto for making a pharmaceutical composition for the induction and/or multiplication of regulatory T cells.
US08389010B2	Stretchable collagen material and manufacturing method and use thereof The present invention provides a stretchable collagen material, particularly collagen derived from fishes, having excellent stretching property and mechanical strength, which can be widely used as a cell carrier and medical material, and to a method for manufacturing the same. By thermally treating a gel comprising collagen fiber cross-linked by using cross-linking agent, the collagen enhanced in both stretching property and mechanical strength can be produced. The stretchable collagen material is extremely useful as a cell carrier material and medical material.
US08389009B2	Spatial control of signal transduction Substrates and matrices for spatial control of signal transduction by a biologically active, soluble molecule that transduces a signal to a cell responsive to the molecule are disclosed.
US08388984B2	Site-specific intestinal delivery of adsorbents, alone or in combination with degrading molecules Compositions which deliver adsorbents, alone or in combination with active drug “degrading molecules,” in a site-specific manner to the intestine, and which eliminate or at least lower the concentration of residual unwanted material within the intestine, and methods of treatment using the compositions, are disclosed. The compositions are ideally designed to specifically release the adsorbents in a programmed manner at a specific site of the intestinal tract. Programmed delivery prevents adsorbents from interfering with the normal absorption process of a given molecule after oral absorption, until it reaches the lower part of the small intestine. The compositions can be used to adsorb, and therefore remove, any residual drug, metabolite thereof, or bacterial toxin after oral or parenteral administration which would otherwise cause adverse effects in the lower intestine and/or colon.
US08388983B2	Film coatings containing fine particle size detackifiers and substrates coated therewith The present invention is directed to film coating compositions for use on oral dosage forms such as compressed tablets and other orally-ingestible substrates which contain a fine particle size detackifier. The film coating compositions can be applied either directly to a substrate or after the substrate has been coated with a subcoat. In preferred aspects, the polymer is either polyvinyl alcohol or a copolymer of polyvinyl alcohol. Aqueous suspensions comprising the inventive film coating compositions, methods of applying the coatings to substrates and the coated substrates themselves are also disclosed.
US08388982B2	Photo-induced damage mitigating agents and preparation and methods of use thereof Compositions, devices, systems and methods for reducing and/or preventing photo-induced damage of one or more reactants in an illuminated analytical reaction by addition of one or more photo-induced damage mitigating agents to the reaction mixture and allowing the reaction to proceed for a period that is less than a photo-induced damage threshold period.
US08388981B2	Babesia microti genomic clones containing novel antigens useful in the diagnosis of babesiosis Disclosed are the cloning and expression of novel antigens in Babesia microti. The recombinant polypeptides are highly immunogenic. The polypeptides of the present invention provide the basis of a diagnostic assay that is sensitive, rapid and accurate using patient's sera. Also disclosed is an IgG and IgM ELISA using two novel recombinant antigens in the diagnosis of Babesia infection.
US08388978B2	Compositions of marine botanicals to provide nutrition to aging and environmentally damaged skin A topical skin care composition and method for its use comprising water, Chlorella vulgaris extract, an algae extract, a phospholipid or lecithin, glycerin, retinyl palmitate, tocopheryl acetate, and magnesium ascorbyl phosphate.
US08388977B2	Diagnosis of macrophage mediated disease The invention relates to a method of treating or monitoring/diagnosing a disease state mediated by activated macrophages. The method comprises the step of administering to a patient suffering from a macrophage mediated disease state an effective amount of a composition comprising a conjugate or complex of the general formula Ab-X where the group Ab comprises a ligand capable of binding to activated macrophages, and when the conjugate is being used for treatment of the disease state, the group X comprises an immunogen, a cytotoxin, or a compound capable of altering macrophage function, and when the conjugate is being used for monitoring/diagnosing the disease state, X comprises an imaging agent. The method is useful for treating a patient suffering from a disease selected from the group consisting of rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, inflammation, infections, osteomyelitis, atherosclerosis, organ transplant rejection, pulmonary fibrosis, sarcoidosis, and systemic sclerosis.
US08388970B2	KIR-binding agents and methods of use thereof The present invention relates to agents and methods that are capable of augmenting NK-mediated killing of target cells by reducing inhibitory KIR signalling without reducing the binding of KIR to HLA-C. As described herein, transduction of negative signaling via KIR, upon binding of KIR to its HLA class I ligand, can involve a ligand-binding induced, conformational reorientation of the KIR molecules allowing interactions to form between adjacent KIRs in specific domains, leading to accelerated clustering. Methods and agents such as monoclonal antibodies for reducing KIR-mediated inhibition of NK cell cytotoxicity without reducing or blocking HLA-binding by, e.g., reducing or blocking dimerization of KIR, are provided.
US08388969B2	Interleukin-1 alpha antibodies and methods of use Fully human monoclonal Abs includes (i) an antigen-binding variable region that exhibits very high binding affinity for IL-1α and (ii) a constant region that is effective at both activating the complement system though C1q binding and binding to several different Fc receptors.
US08388964B2	Methods of treating diseases which are mediated by cutaneous lymphocyte antigen positive cells The present invention relates to methods of treating patients suffering from itching and puritis mediated by cutaneous lymphocyte antigen positive T cell. In particular, diseases or disorders including contact dermatitis, drug induced delayed type cutaneous allergic reactions, toxic epidermal necrolysis, cutaneous T cell lymphoma, bullous pemphigoid, alopecia aereata, vitiligo, acne rosacea, prurigo nodularis, and herpes simplex virus, or combination thereof will benefit from the administration of an IL-31 antagonist. The invention also includes methods of predicting a therapeutically responsive patient population.
US08388963B2	Antitumor combinations containing a VEGF-inhibiting agent and 5FU or a derivative thereof This invention relates to antitumor combinations comprising a VEGF inhibitor combined with 5-fluorouracil or with a 5-fluoropyrimidine derivative that are therapeutically useful in the treatment of neoplastic diseases, and pharmaceutical compositions comprising such combinations.
US08388961B2	Cytotoxicity mediation of cells evidencing surface expression of CD44 This invention relates to the diagnosis and treatment of cancerous diseases, particularly to the mediation of cytotoxicity of primary and metastatic human tumor cells; and most particularly to the use of an isolated monoclonal antibody or cancerous disease modifying antibodies (CDMAB) thereof, optionally in combination with one or more chemotherapeutic agents, as a means for initiating the cytotoxic response in such human tumors, e.g. any primary or metastatic tumor sites which arise from hepatocytes. The invention further relates to binding assays which utilize the CDMAB of the instant invention.
US08388959B2	Anti-fXI antibodies and methods of use Disclosed herein are monoclonal antibodies specific for factor XI (fXI) that prevent activation of fXI by factor XIIa (fXIIa). The monoclonal antibodies are universal fXI antibodies, capable of binding all mammalian species tested. The anti-fXI monoclonal antibodies prolong clotting time in mammalian plasmas. Moreover, administration of the fXI monoclonal antibodies disclosed herein results in inhibition of thrombosis without altering hemostasis in animal models of thrombosis. Thus, provided herein are monoclonal antibodies specific for fXI that block activation of fXI by fXIIa, compositions and immunoconjugates comprising such antibodies and their methods of use.
US08388952B2	Botulinum toxin compositions and methods Disclosed herein are methods of using extracellular matrix digesting enzymes and neurotoxins, such as a Clostridial neurotoxins, to treat various medical conditions, such as overactive bladder, benign prostatic hyperplasia, hyperhidrosis, for example.
US08388951B2	Method for treating systemic DNA mutation disease A treatment for systemic DNA mutation diseases accompanied with development of somatic mosaicism and elevation of blood extracellular DNA and, more particularly, to a treatment of diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis. The inventive method consist from introducing a treatment agent into a circulating blood system of a patient diagnosed with systemic DNA mutation diseases when said treatment agent destroys extracellular DNA in said blood of said patient and wherein said treatment agent used to destroy said extracellular DNA is a DNASE enzyme: said agent might be administered in doses and regimens which sufficient to decrease number average molecular weight of circulating extracellular blood DNA in the blood of said patient; such decrease of number average molecular weight might be measured by gel electrophoresis of extracellular blood DNA fraction from the blood of said patient. A DNASE enzyme may be further applied in a dose and regime that provide a DNA hydrolytic activity measured in blood plasma exceeding 1.5 Kunitz units per 1 ml of blood plasma for more than 12 hours within a period of 24 hours.
US08388950B2	Coenzyme Q10-containing water-soluble composition and process for production thereof A coenzyme Q10-containing water soluble composition comprises coenzyme Q10, a hydrophilic polyglycerol fatty acid ester, a lipophilic sucrose fatty acid ester and an aqueous phase component and a process for producing the same are disclosed. A coenzyme Q10-containing water-soluble dry powder can be obtained by drying the above-mentioned coenzyme Q10-containing water soluble composition. A food, functional food, beverage, pharmaceutical product, quasi drug, cosmetic, or animal food can be obtained by using the above-mentioned coenzyme Q10-containing water soluble composition or the above-mentioned coenzyme Q10-containing water-soluble dry powder. The coenzyme Q10-containing water soluble composition has a high bioavailability, and maintains a stable emulsion form for a long period of time from refrigeration temperature to room temperature and allows efficient supply.
US08388945B2	Degradable microcapsules The invention relates to microcapsules consisting of a polymer degradable by a polypeptide comprising a drug or other compound of interest and a genetically engineered cell expressing said polypeptide in response to a triggering compound, and to methods of directed release of the compound of interest. The preferred polymer is optionally modified cellulose sulfate/poly-diallyl-dimethyl-ammonium chloride. Such microcapsules are non-toxic, do not elicit an immunological response and have an extended half-life time in mammals. The expression system for cellulase is, for example, based on TET and doxycycline, or E.REX and erythromycin. In another example, expression of cellulase is triggered by luteinizing hormone, which can be used for artificial insemination with microcapsules carrying sperm.
US08388936B2	In vivo mitochondrial labeling using positively-charged nitroxide enhanced and gadolinium chelate enhanced magnetic resonance imaging A system and method for acquiring MR imaging data from a subject includes administering positively-charged nitroxides or gadolinium chelates for in vivo mitochondrial labeling, acquiring MR imaging data from the subject, and reconstructing an image of the subject having enhanced contrast in areas including metabolic and/or mitotic activity.
US08388930B2	Diagnosis and assessment of skeletal related disease using calcium 41 A method of determining calcium metabolism in a patient comprises the steps of administering radioactive calcium isotope 41Ca to the patient, allowing a period of time to elapse sufficient for dissemination and reaction of the radioactive calcium isotope 41Ca by the patient, obtaining a sample of the radioactive calcium isotope 41Ca from the patient, isolating the calcium content of the sample in a form suitable for precise measurement of isotopic calcium concentrations, and measuring the calcium content to determine parameters of calcium metabolism in the patient.
US08388929B2	Alpha alumina for the production of sapphire single crystal and method for producing the same An object of the present invention is to provide α alumina for the production of a sapphire single crystal, capable of producing a sapphire single crystal with high production efficiency; and a method for producing the same.Disclosed are α alumina for the production of a sapphire single crystal, including 100 parts by weight of α alumina (I) and 25 to 235 parts by weight of α alumina (II), wherein the α alumina (I) has a specific surface area of 0.1 to 5 m2/g and a bulk density of 1.5 g/cm3 or more, the α alumina (II) is composed of sintered particles and also has a specific surface area of 1 m2/g or less and a relative density of 85% or more, and each of the body particles has a volume of 0.01 cm3 or more; and a method for producing the same.
US08388926B2	System and method for the production of gypsum using heat recovery The present invention relates to a system and associated method for the production of gypsum in manufacturing plant. More specifically, the invention relates to the production of alpha-type gypsum in a gypsum board manufacturing plant. The system yields increased efficiencies by capturing heat given off during processing steps and using that heat to reduce the energy needed for calcination. The invention finds particular application in the production alpha-type gypsum. The present invention is described in greater detail hereinafter in conjunction with the following specific embodiments.
US08388918B2	Physical separation and sequestration of carbon dioxide from the exhaust gases of fossil fuel combustion Methods are provided for physically removing all the carbon dioxide from the combustion products of solid, liquid, and gaseous fossil fuels. The combustors operate without excess air to maximize the carbon dioxide at the exhaust, which is compressed with the nitrogen and mixed with pressurized water to dissolve the carbon dioxide in a chamber from which the nitrogen gas is removed. The solution is drained into a second lower pressure chamber from which the carbon dioxide re-evolves as a gas, which is then pressurized for sequestration in limestone formations as calcium bicarbonate. The water is recycled to repeat the separation process, and depressurization of the two gases recovers most of the compression energy.
US08388916B2	Process for production of commercial quality potassium nitrate from polyhalite A method for the production of KNO3 from polyhalite is provided. The method comprises steps of decomposing said polyhalite into syngenite, gypsum, and soluble components, treating the solid decomposition products sequentially with HNO3 and Ca basic compound, precipitating the CaSO4 thus formed, and crystallizing the KNO3 from the solution remaining. The method recovers up to 75% of the potassium present in the raw polyhalite as KNO3 and substantially all of the remainder as a potassium magnesium sulfate salt.
US08388907B2	Devices and methods for the collection and detection of substances The present invention provides a single self-contained device for collecting, extracting, on-site testing, and transferring for forensic confirmatory analysis, a wide variety of substances including, but not limited to, drugs of abuse, explosives, weapons of mass destruction, food toxins and industrial wastes. Samples can be obtained from a surface by swabbing a suspect area or the testing of solid materials (pills, capsules, powders), air samples and biological and non-biological fluids by placing the substance in the device. The device includes a swab, a retention well including a wash, and analysis technologies that can be, for example, a lateral flow testing system. The swab is rinsed with a wash prior to testing thereby not compromising the chemistry of the detection technologies and allowing for a wide variety of applications under a number of field conditions. Also, the device is a single self-contained unit instead of having a separate reagent droppers or sprays, making it compact and easy to use. Moreover, the device is designed to not only collect and test samples but to seal the originally target analyte, not affected by testing procedures, in a specially designed cap for shipping under chain of custody documentation to a forensic laboratory for confirmatory testing.
US08388905B2	Method and apparatus for coding diagnostic meters A system for diagnostic testing may include a meter for performing a diagnostic test on a sample applied to a test media, the meter having a housing and an interface for receiving a signal representing coding information, and a container configured to contain test media compatible with the meter, the container having a coding element associated therewith. Additionally, the system may provide a mechanisms for removing the meter from an interconnected test container and reattaching it to a new container using on-container coding methods that can recalibrate the meter for the new container of test strips. The system may further provide a sampling device, such as a lancet, operably connected to the container such that that a user may use the sampling device to obtain a sample without disconnecting the sampling device from the container. In addition, the system may further provide a refillable test strip container which includes a foil pouch of test strips with a desiccant pill used to refill test strip container when empty.
US08388902B2	Method and apparatus for regenerating activated coke used for treating wastewater or sewage A method for regenerating activated coke used for treating wastewater or sewage is provided. The method includes loading the activated coke to an environment under 150 to 250° C., heating the activated coke to a temperature of 700 to 850° C. for about 40 to 90 minutes; and providing a steam to the activated coke with a rate of 0.1 to 0.5 m3/(ton of activated coke). When the activated coke is being heated at the temperature, it generates a gas mixture including a steam portion and at least a paraffine gas. The gas mixture flows along a reverse direction relative to a flow of cooling water, so that the steam portion is converted into a part of the cooling water for recycling. The paraffine gas is used as a fuel. An apparatus for regenerating the activated coke used for treating wastewater or sewage is also provided.
US08388898B2	Ceramic filter element The reduction of nitrogen oxides in gas is carried out, by means of selective reaction of the nitrogen oxide with the reducing agent in the in the solid catalyst. In order to achieve high catalytic activity, the above is carried out at high gas temperatures. As a rule, ceramic filter elements, coated with catalytic material are used. This does, however, give rise to the risk the catalytically active components are stripped from the filter during the hot gas filtration. A ceramic filter element with support material in the form of particles, with binder material and catalytic material is thus disclosed, whereby the binder material comprises catalytic material, or the binder material is partly replaced by the catalyst material and the support material particles (1) are connected to each other by means of the catalyst and/or binder material.
US08388897B2	System for reducing carbon compound of heat engine A system for reducing a carbon compound of a heat engine includes: an outlet pipe transferring and outputting an exhaust gas from the heat engine; a removal reacting tank connected to the outlet pipe, the removal reacting tank generating a strong alkaline solution by a reaction of a resource material and a water and removing the carbon compound from the exhaust gas by a contact of the carbon compound and the strong alkaline solution; a sludge storing tank storing a sludge generated by a removal reaction in the removal reacting tank; and a decomposing tank generating the resource material for the removal reacting tank by decomposing the sludge from the sludge storing tank with a heat. Accordingly, since the carbon compound such as carbon dioxide is effectively removed from the exhaust gas emitted from a heat engine equipped in an industrial plant and a vehicle, atmospheric environmental pollution is prevented and regulation on carbon dioxide emission is satisfied.
US08388893B2	Combined detector A combined detector capable of simultaneously detecting both a value indicating a physical/chemical phenomenon such as a pH value and the intensity of an energy beam such as light. The combined detector comprises a physical/chemical phenomenon detecting system (10) and an energy beam detecting system. The physical/chemical phenomenon detecting system (10) has a sensing section (21) whose potential varies with a physical/chemical phenomenon, a charge supply section (22) for supplying first charge to the sensing section, a charge supply control section (23) provided between the sensing section (21) and the charge supply section (22), a first charge storage section (26) for storing the first charge transferred from the sensing section (21), and a charge transfer control section (27) provided between the sensing section (21) and the first charge storage section (26). The sensing section (21) includes a semiconductor charge generating portion (15) for generating the first charge and second charge when receiving an energy beam such as light. The energy beam detecting system has the semiconductor charge generating portion (15) and a second charge storage section (31) adapted to store the second charge generated by the semiconductor charge generating portion (15) and having an opposite potential to the first charge storage section (26) with respect to the sensing section (21).
US08388892B2	In-line loss-on-ignition measurement system and method An in-line loss-on-ignition measurement system includes an on-site extractor subsystem configured to collect fuel or a combustion by-product from a hydrocarbon fuel burning plant. An on-site analyzer is configured to receive the collected matter from the extractor subsystem and configured to weigh the collected matter, burn the collected matter, and weight the collected matter again. A controller is responsive to the analyzer and is configured to determine the loss-on-ignition data for the plant based on the weight of the collected matter before and after it is burned in the analyzer.
US08388889B2	Heat-resistant, austenitic cast steel and exhaust member made thereof Heat-resistant, austenitic cast steel comprising by mass 0.3-0.6% of C, 1.1-2% of Si, 1.5% or less of Mn, 17.5-22.5% of Cr, 8-13% of Ni, 1.5-4% as (W+2Mo) of at least one of W and Mo, 1-4% of Nb, 0.01-0.3% of N, 0.01-0.5% of S, the balance being Fe and inevitable impurities, and meeting the following formulae (1), (2), (3) and (4): 0.05≦(C—Nb/8)≦0.6 (1), 17.5≦17.5Si−(W+2Mo) (2), 5.6Si+(W+2Mo)≦13.7 (3), and 0.08Si+(C—Nb/8)+0.015Cr+0.011Ni+0.03W+0.02Mo<0.96 (4), wherein the symbol of each element corresponds to the amount (% by mass) of each element in the cast steel.
US08388888B2	Apparatus for injecting gas into a vessel An apparatus for injecting gas into a metallurgical vessel is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a gas flow duct, an elongate central tubular structure extending within the gas flow duct, a plurality of flow directing swirl vanes, inflow and outflow cooling water passages within the central structure, and a nose portion provided with one or more water cooling passages. The flow directing vanes are provided with internal water cooling vane passages. In use, water flow is communicated through the vane passages from the water inflow passage in the central structure to the water flow passage in the nose portion of the central structure such that at least some of the inflowing water will pass successively through the vane passages and the nose passage or passages and thence to the outflow passage.
US08388886B2	Blow-molded plastic bottle and method of manufacture A plastic bottle includes an expanded blow-molding preform of plastic film. The expanded preform has a base configured to support the bottle in a free-standing upright position, a neck containing a fitment, and seams including only a single full-height seam extending from the base to the neck.
US08388885B2	Membrane structure for vacuum assisted molding fiber reinforced article A method of manufacturing a fiber-reinforced article. The method includes the steps of providing a mat fiber structure defining voids therein. A membrane structure is applied over at least a portion of the fiber structure. The membrane structure includes a microporous membrane. At least the microporous membrane of the membrane structure has an oil resistance rating of at least a number 8 determined by AATCC 118 testing. A resin and hardener mix is provided. The resin is infused into voids of the fiber structure by applying a vacuum to the fiber structure and the membrane structure wherein the membrane structure inhibits the flow of resin therethrough.
US08388876B2	Method for forming a rapid exchange catheter with formed guide wire ramp A rapid exchange catheter comprises a guide wire lumen including a substantially sealed portion in which a lumen wall extends around an entire periphery thereof and a channel portion including a channel opening the lumen to an exterior of the catheter, wherein a width of the channel is less than a maximum width of the channel portion. A guide wire ramp extends into the channel portion, with the ramp extending further into the lumen of the channel portion as a distal end of the ramp is approached.
US08388874B2	Hot-melt molding apparatus A hot-melt molding apparatus includes an apparatus body, a cylinder, a molding head, a heating device, a conveyor screw, a heat transport section, a thermoelectric element, and a power storage section. The cylinder communicates with the apparatus body and is configured to receive thermoplastic material. The molding head is provided at one end of the cylinder. The heating device is configured to heat the cylinder and the molding head to melt thermoplastic material therein. The conveyor screw is provided inside the cylinder to convey thermoplastic material to the molding head. The heat transport section has a first end connected to at least one of the cylinder and the molding head. The thermoelectric conversion element is connected to a second end of the heat transport section. The power storage section is connected to the thermoelectric conversion element and is configured to store power generated by the thermoelectric conversion element.
US08388868B2	Vulcanizable copolymer semiconductive shield compositions Semi-conductive or insulating compositions including an ethylene/octane or butene copolymer and at least one additional polymer, such LDPE, are described. The compositions may also include carbon black and other additives. The composition may be used as a semi-conductive layer in such applications as electrical cables.
US08388862B2	Inorganic luminescent material for solid-state white-light sources InGaN-based blue LEDs and, specifically luminescent materials, are described containing yttrium oxide, oxides of rare earth metals, as well as aluminium oxide in proportions that yield a luminescent material whose average composition fits the general formula (Y1−x−yCexΣLny)3+αAl5O12+1.5α, where α—defines increase in stoichiometric index over the known value for yttrium-gadolinium garnet and varies between 0.033 and 2; x—is atomic fraction of cerium, 0.0001-0.1; ΣLny —is one or more lanthanides from the Gd, Tb, La, Yb group, whose atomic fraction in an yttrium sub-lattice is 0.010.
US08388858B2	Substance composition and method for melting ice and preventing slipperiness and use of betaine for melting ice and preventing slipperiness The invention relates to a combination of compounds for de-icing and/or anti-skid treatment, which combination comprises betaine and at least one other de-icing agent, which has been selected from the group consisting of acetates, formates, urea and combinations thereof. The invention also relates to a method of de-icing and/or anti-skid treatment, wherein a combination of compounds selected from the group consisting of acetates, formats, urea and combinations thereof, are applied to a slippery surface or a surface vulnerable to slipperiness. The invention further relates to the use of betaine for de-icing and/or anti-skid treatment, when betaine is used in combination with at least one ether de-icing agent, which has been selected from the group consisting of acetates, formates, urea and combinations thereof.
US08388850B2	System and method of water treatment A mobile water treatment system is disposed on a trailer of a truck. There is an intake filter, an intake hose, a pump or multiple pumps for water intake and sending water throughout the system, a filtering section that may include sand and/or bag filter or other types of filters, an ozone treatment section after the filters, a holding tank after the ozone section, a UV treatment section after the holding tank, and a chlorination tank. The water may then be sent to a water storage facility or other place as desired. The system includes a generator for power to run the system, and a controller for the system. The ozone section makes use of a misting nozzle in order to increase ozone contact time, and decrease ozone breakdown. The UV section makes use of a slightly downward tilted table with UV bulbs and reflectors above it, and preferably is mounted on a leveling system. A method of treating water uses the mobile system.
US08388847B2	Methods of concentrating shear-sensitive biopolymers The invention relates generally to methods of concentrating mixtures including shear sensitive biopolymers, such as von Willebrand Factor. Conventional methods of concentrating biopolymers impart too much shear stress, which causes the degradation of shear sensitive biopolymers. The methods disclosed herein reduce the shear stress while maintaining a high rate of filtrate flux. Disclosed herein is a method for concentrating shear sensitive biopolymers including flowing a mixture with a shear sensitive biopolymer into a hollow fiber dialysis module to form a retentate having a shear sensitive biopolymer concentration that is greater than that of the mixture. Hollow fiber dialysis modules have high filtrate fluxes and low shear rates at low flow rates. This ensures a high product yield and minimal loss of shear sensitive biopolymers.
US08388844B2	Intimate coupling of photocatalysis and biodegradation in a photocatalytic circulating-bed biofilm reactor Systems and methods are provided for intimately coupling advanced oxidation process (AOP) with biodegradation for the treatment of contaminated water. The system comprises a particulate bed having carrier particles that have a microbial film effective for biodegrading contaminants in the contaminated water. An advanced oxidation reagent is irradiated by a radiation source to provide an advanced oxidation reagent effective for oxidizing recalcitrant compounds in the contaminated water to form biodegradable byproducts. The microbial film is effective for biodegrading the byproducts substantially immediately after they are produced. The carrier particles are also effective for protecting the microbial film from the radiation and/or the recalcitrant compounds.
US08388838B2	Additive dispersing filter and method of making A filter, comprising: a housing defining an inlet fluid opening and an outlet fluid opening, the inlet fluid opening and the outlet fluid opening defining a fluid path through the filter; a filter element disposed inside the filter housing, the filter element being disposed in the flow path such that fluid flowing through the flow path must pass through the filter element; and a dispersement device disposed within the housing, the dispersement device comprising a housing having at least one chamber for an additive disposed within the at least one chamber, the dispersement device further comprises a metering opening that is sealed with an oil soluble material the metering opening being in fluid communication with the at least one chamber when the oil soluble material is removed from the metering opening.
US08388832B2	Process for flocculation of a tailings stream A process for the treatment of a tailings stream is provided. The tailings stream comprises water, sand and clay fines and is produced from bitumen extraction process of an oil sands ore. The process for treating the tailings stream comprises contacting a polysilicate microgel, a polyacrylamide and one or both of a multivalent metal compound and a low molecular weight cationic organic polymer with a tailings stream to flocculate sand and clay fines.
US08388823B2	Method and apparatus for the separation and quantification of particles The invention pertains to a method and apparatus to separate and quantify particles using time-variable force fields. The force fields can be for dielectrophoresis (positive or negative), electrophoresis, or electrohydrodynamic. In one aspect, the fields are translated and/or modified in space at a speed substantially comparable to the speed of translation of the fastest particles in the sample. The translation and/or modification of the force fields can also occur with varying speed. In another aspect, the field is translated and/or modified in a first direction at high speed. In another aspect, the quantity or size of the particles is determined by an indirect measurement of the speed of movement after varying the force field by means of a relationship between the speed of movement and the volume of the particles. This invention also pertains to an apparatus to produce appropriate field configurations necessary for the selective movement of particles.
US08388817B2	Method and apparatus for treating a fluid Fluid treatment devices are disclosed. The fluid treatment devices may include a first electrode and a second electrode and a control device which provides an alternating potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode.
US08388812B2	Industrial fabric including spirally wound material strips An industrial fabric such as an endless belt or sleeve for use in the production of nonwovens, and a method of making thereof are disclosed. The industrial fabric is produced by spirally winding strips of polymeric material, such as an industrial strapping or ribbon material, and joining the adjoining sides of the strips of material using ultrasonic welding or laser welding techniques. The fabric may then be perforated using a suitable technique to make it permeable to air and/or water.
US08388807B2	Partially fire resistant insulation material comprising unrefined virgin pulp fibers and wood ash fire retardant component A partially fire resistant cellulosic fiber thermal insulation material from a fibrous web of unrefined virgin softwood and hardwood provides fibers which provides an R-value (as measured by the ASTM C518 test) of at least about 3, and a wood ash fire retardant component present in and/or on the fibrous web in an amount of at least about 1.5% by weight of the fibrous web and sufficient to impart at least partial fire resistance (as measured by the ASTM E970-08A test) to the fibrous web. Also, a process for preparing this at least partially fire resistant thermal insulation material.
US08388806B2	Hydrophobically modifed poly[ethylene glycol] for use in pitch and stickies control in pulp and papermaking processes Methods for inhibiting the depositions of organic contaminants from pulp in pulp and papermaking systems are disclosed. Hydrophobically modified poly[ethylene glycol] are added to the pulp or applied to deposition-prone surfaces of a papermaking system.
US08388805B2	Coarse separator A coarse separator (10) for a power tool (2) is used for separating, at least partially, from an air flow (L), material particles (M) produced during operation of the power tool (2) and aspirated by a suction device (8), and includes an inlet opening (48) connectable with the suction head (6) of a suction device (8) that aspirates the particles, an outlet opening (40) for letting a purified air flow (L) out, and a lamella separator arranged between the inlet opening (48) and the outlet opening (40).
US08388801B2	Method for separating an optical film bonded to an adherend with a pressure-sensitive adhesive optical film There is provided a method for separating an optical film bonded to an adherend with a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer interposed therebetween from the adherend. The pressure-sensitive adhesive layer is formed using an optical pressure-sensitive adhesive. The optical pressure-sensitive adhesive of the invention comprises a base polymer having a functional group (F); and a coupling agent that has a benzyl ester group and is represented by Formula (1): wherein A1 and A2 are different functional groups, one of A1 and A2 shows reactivity or interaction with the functional group (F) of the base polymer, R1 is an optionally substituted alkylene group of 1 to 12 carbon atoms and/or an optionally substituted phenylene group, and R2 and R3 are each a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group of 1 to 12 carbon atoms and may be the same or different.
US08388800B2	Apparatus for wet processing substrate An exemplary wet processing apparatus includes a conveyor, a spraying system, and a suction system. The conveyor is configured for conveying a substrate. The spraying system includes an upper spraying conduit above the conveyor and an upper spraying nozzle mounted on the upper spraying conduit. The suction system includes a suction conduit and a suction nozzle connected to the suction conduit. The suction nozzle is adjacent to the conveyor and configured for suction the wet processing liquid sprayed on the substrate. The suction conduit is connected to the spraying conduit in such a manner that the flowing of the wet processing liquid in the upper spraying conduit can create a negative pressure in the suction conduit to enable the suction nozzle to suck the wet processing liquid on the substrate.
US08388798B2	Pressure-sensitive adhesive for applying optically functional film, optically functional film and production process for the same A pressure-sensitive adhesive containing a pressure-sensitive adhesive resin and fine particles having an average particle diameter of 0.1 to 20 μm. The pressure-sensitive adhesive has a storage elastic modulus (G′) at 23° C. of 0.3 to 15 MPa, and a haze value that is 5% or more.
US08388789B2	Method of manufacturing a fuselage frame of composite material For an arcuate structural member (10) of a fuselage frame, tapes of resin pre-impregnated unidirectional fibers are used. The member (10) includes a web (11) lying in a radial plane and a radially outer cylindrical flange (12). An elongate, arcuate forming mandrel (M1) having a flat radial surface (F) forming an angular edge (D) with a radially outer, convex cylindrical surface (S) is used and a series of promontories (P) radiating outwardly with respect to the cylindrical surface (S) are provided. Layers of pre-impregnated composite material are laid on the mandrel (M1) to form a first flat arcuate laminate (20′), with a part (20″) of the laminate projecting radially outwardly beyond the angular edge (D). The mandrel (M1), the laminate (20′) and the promontories (P) are covered with a membrane (E). A vacuum is then applied to urge the projecting part (20″) of the laminate against the cylindrical surface (S) and against the promontories (P). Contact of the projecting part (20″) with the cylindrical surface (S) near the promontories is prevented or retarded. Finally, discrete portions of the projecting part (20″) near the promontories are removed, obtaining peripheral cavities (15) spaced apart from one another.
US08388788B2	Method of winding holding sealing material and method of manufacturing exhaust gas purifying apparatus A method of winding a holding sealing material includes providing a mat-shaped holding sealing material including inorganic fibers. An exhaust gas treating body is provided having cell walls extending along a longitudinal direction of the exhaust gas treating body to define cells. The mat-shaped holding sealing material is wound around an outer peripheral portion of the exhaust gas treating body to form multiple layers including a first layer and a second layer wound around the first layer. Each of the multiple layers is shifted along the longitudinal direction in a winding order such that the first layer is placed closer to one end face of the exhaust gas treating body than the second layer. A shift between the first layer and the second layer is from about 0.15% to about 15% of a length in a width direction of the holding sealing material.
US08388786B2	Substrate-less pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet for protection of semiconductor wafer, method for grinding back side of semiconductor wafer using pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet, and method for producing pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet The present invention provides a substrate-less pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet for protection of semiconductor wafer, which is to be stuck to a front surface of a semiconductor wafer in grinding a back surface of the semiconductor wafer, the pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet consisting of a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, in which the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer is formed of a UV-curable pressure-sensitive adhesive containing a polymer composed mainly of an acrylic monomer polymerizable compound, the pressure-sensitive adhesive force of a surface of the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer to be stuck to the front surface of the semiconductor wafer is larger than the pressure-sensitive adhesive force of the opposite surface thereof, and the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer has an initial elastic modulus of from 0.01 MPa to 500 MPa.
US08388782B2	Handler attachment for integrated circuit fabrication A method for attaching a handler to a wafer, the wafer comprising an integrated circuit (IC), includes forming a layer of an adhesive on the wafer, the adhesive comprising a polyimide-based polymer configured to withstand processing at a temperature of over about 280° C.; and adhering a handler to the wafer using the layer of adhesive. A system for attaching a handler to a wafer, the wafer comprising IC, includes a layer of an adhesive located on the wafer, the adhesive comprising a polyimide-based polymer configured to withstand processing at a temperature of over about 280° C.; and a handler adhered to the wafer using the layer of adhesive.
US08388781B2	Apparatus for attaching substrates and gap control unit thereof An apparatus for attaching substrates includes a first chamber for supporting a first substrate and a second chamber for supporting a second substrate. A main seal member is placed between the first chamber and the second chamber so as to maintain a seal and a gap between the chambers. An alignment control part is placed between the first chamber and the second chamber so as to maintain the seal, and also to allow the second chamber to move with respect to the first chamber in order to align the substrates. The alignment control part may also control a gap between the chambers, to thereby maintain a uniform gap between the substrates.
US08388779B2	Substrate structures applied in flexible electrical devices and fabrication method thereof A substrate structure applied in flexible electrical devices is provided. The substrate structure includes a carrier, a release layer overlying the carrier with a first area and a flexible substrate overlying the release layer and the carrier with a second area, wherein the second area is larger than the first area and the flexible substrate has a greater adhesion force than that of the release layer to the carrier. The disclosure also provides a method for fabricating the substrate structure.
US08388777B2	Alkali metal perchlorate-containing gas generants Alkali metal perchlorate-containing gas generant compositions which, upon combustion, produce or result in an improved effluent and related methods for generating an inflation gas for use in an inflatable restraint system are provided. Such alkali metal perchlorate-containing gas generant compositions include at least one alkali metal perchlorate present with a mean particle size in excess of 100 microns. Such alkali metal perchlorate-containing gas generant compositions also include or contain a suitable non-azide, organic, nitrogen-containing fuel and at least one copper-containing compound selected from the group consisting of basic copper nitrate, cupric oxide, copper diammine dinitrate-ammonium nitrate mixture wherein ammonium nitrate is present in the mixture in a range of about 3 to about 90 weight percent, copper diammine bitetrazole, a copper-nitrate complex resulting from reaction of 5-aminotetrazole with basic copper nitrate and combinations thereof.
US08388774B1	Multiwave thermal processes to improve metallurgical characteristics A multi-wave thermal process for treating a metal to improve structural characteristics is herein disclosed. The metal can be placed in a chamber. Each wave of the process can include: selecting a target temperature; selecting a temperature rate; and controlling the temperature rate while chilling the metal by introducing a cryogenic material into the chamber, while preventing over-stressing of the metal, to the target temperature at the temperature rate. While chilling the metal, the process can include inserting a hold time on the metal at an intermediate temperature for equalization of the temperature uniformly throughout the metal, thereby creating uniformity in a microcrystalline structure of the metal. The process can further include: stopping the introduction of the cryogenic material once the target temperature is reached and holding the metal at the target temperature. The process can result in a treated metal without fractures and with an organized microcrystalline structure.
US08388771B2	High strength steel sheet having excellent formability A high strength steel sheet contains, in percent by mass, 0.03 to 0.2% of C, 0.5 to 2.5% of Si, 1 to 3.0% of Mn, 0.01 to 0.5% of Cr, 0.01 to 0.5% of Mo, 0.02 to 0.15% of Al, 0.15% or less of Ti, 0.15% or less of No, and 0.15% or less of V; wherein the remainder includes Fe and inevitable impurities, and the content of Si satisfies the following formula (1), α−4.1≦[Si]α−2.4 (1), provided, α=6.9×([C]+[Mn]/6+[Cr]/5+[Mo]/4+[Ti]/15+[Nb]/17+[V]/14)1/2 is given, wherein [ ] shows the quantity (mass percent) of each element contained in the steel sheet. The high strength steel sheet is improved in formability (particularly, elongation), and excellent in balance between strength and elongation.
US08388770B2	Cold-rolled steel sheet, method of producing the same, battery, and method of producing the same A cold-rolled steel sheet has a composition containing, by mass percent, 0.0040% or less of C, 0.02% or less of Si, 0.14% to 0.25% of Mn, 0.020% or less of P, 0.015% or less of S, 0.0040% or less of N, 0.020% to 0.070% of Al, 0.005% to 0.030% of Nb, 0.005% to 0.030% of Ti, (0.0003% to 0.0010% of the equivalent amount of solid solution B (from which the amount of B forming BN has been subtracted)), and the balance composed of Fe and inevitable impurities, wherein even when the rolling reduction of cold rolling is 85% or less, the average grain size of a ferrite structure is reliably 12.0 μm or less, and the relationship −0.20≦Δr≦0.20 can be reliably satisfied and which has an excellent earing property.
US08388764B2	Apparatus and method for handling an artificial turf arranged on a base An apparatus is disclosed for handling an artificial turf arranged on a base. In at least one embodiment, the apparatus includes a removing station for lifting from the base a strip of the artificial turf extending in a longitudinal direction, a separating station for separating filling material from the strip and a winding station for winding the strip onto a shaft. A method is disclosed for handling an artificial turf arranged on a base. In at least one embodiment, the method includes lifting a strip of the artificial turf extending in a longitudinal direction from the base, separating infill material from the strip and winding the strip onto a shaft.
US08388762B2	Substrate cleaning technique employing multi-phase solution A method and system for cleaning opposed surfaces of a semiconductor wafer having particulate matter thereon. The method includes generating relative movement between a fluid and the substrate. The relative movement is in a direction that is transverse to a normal to one of the opposed surfaces and creates two spaced-apart flows. Each of the flows is adjacent to one of the opposed surfaces that is different from the opposed surface that is adjacent to the remaining flow of the plurality of flows. The fluid has coupling elements entrained therein, and the relative movement is established to impart sufficient drag upon a subset of the coupling elements to create movement of the coupling elements of the subset within the fluid. In this manner, a quantity of the drag is imparted upon the particulate matter to cause the particulate matter to move with respect to the substrate.
US08388760B2	Portable one man root poisoning system for sewers An Improved system for killing roots in sewers without stopping the existing sewer flow, a portable system to eliminate the roots in the sewers, this system makes it possible to treat the roots by treating only the zone concerned and not the overall length of the drain of sewer. The invention enters the sewer by an opening and travels to the problem and inflates in order to retain the poison dispensed by the dispenser. This system makes it possible to more easily deal with problems of roots in the sewers more quickly and, which makes it possible to reduce the cost. All the zones touched by problems of roots can be treated, treatment limits the progression of the roots and destroys them, which makes it possible to prevent the over flow of sewers and the damage of the drains of sewers. The prevention of overflows of sewers makes it possible to protect our wild, aquatic life and our water supply. Basically to help save our environment.
US08388759B2	Methods and devices to clear obstructions from medical tubes A device for clearing obstructions from a medical tube, such as a chest tube, is disclosed in various embodiments. The device features a clearance member in the form of a loop. The loop desirably has a diameter that substantially corresponds to the inner diameter of the medical tube. Also desirably, the loop presents a substantially unobstructed pathway therethrough for the flow of material from a location in the medical tube distal to the loop to a location in the medical tube proximal to the loop regardless whether the clearance member is being translated or is at rest in the medical tube. Methods of utilizing such a device are also disclosed.
US08388757B2	Electrostatic chuck and apparatus for treating substrate including the same An electrostatic chuck for an apparatus for treating a substrate includes a body; an insulating plate attached onto a top surface of the body, wherein the substrate is disposed on the insulating plate; an electrode in the insulating plate; a temperature controlling unit including a heating unit and a cooling unit under the electrode and in the insulating plate; and a thermal conduction unit disposed between the electrode and the temperature controlling unit.
US08388748B2	Process for the preparation of nitrocellulose solutions having a low water content The present invention relates to the continuous preparation of alcohol- and plasticizer-free finished nitrocellulose solutions having a particularly low water content by partial distillative falling-film evaporation of comparatively water-rich, optionally emulsion-like crude nitrocellulose solutions which are preferably provided by dissolving nitrocelluloses of the customary solid forms offered, which are known to be initially water-moist as a result of the preparation, in preferably ethyl acetate.
US08388746B2	Filtration system for a compressor station A filtration system has a blowdown conduit and a filter unit. The blowdown conduit is adapted to be operably connected with a gas compressor station. The filter unit includes a filter housing, an inlet port, a pollution filter positioned within the filter housing to remove the pollutants from the vented gasses entering through the inlet port, and an exit port enabling the vented gasses to exit the filter housing once the pollutants have been removed by the pollution filter.
US08388744B1	Systems and methods for using a boehmite bond-coat with polyimide membranes for gas separation The subject matter disclosed herein relates to gas separation membranes and, more specifically, to polyimide gas separation membranes. In an embodiment, a gas separation membrane includes a porous substrate, a substantially continuous polyimide membrane layer, and one or more layers of boehmite nanoparticles disposed between the porous substrate and the polyimide membrane layer to form a bond-coat layer. The bond-coat layer is configured to improve the adhesion of the polyimide membrane layer to the porous substrate, and the polyimide membrane layer has a thickness approximately 100 nm or less.
US08388742B2	Apparatus to measure permeation of a gas through a membrane The present invention relates to an apparatus to measure permeation of a gas through a membrane. The membrane is mounted on a flange with two sealing areas. The region between the sealing areas defines an annular space. The annular space is swept with a gas in order to carry away any of the permeating gas which may leak through the sealing areas.
US08388740B2	Simplified process to remove dissolved oxygen from hydrocarbon streams A process is presented for the removal of dissolved oxygen from hydrocarbon streams. The hydrocarbons streams include kerosene and jet fuels. The process includes mixing the hydrocarbons streams with an oxygen free gas to form a gas-liquid mixture. The mixture is allowed to disengage into a gas stream and a liquid stream, thereby removing dissolved oxygen from the hydrocarbon stream.
US08388735B2	Adsorbent media with Li exchanged zeolite An adsorbent media composition has a finished media lithium-exchanged zeolite X (LiX) with a finished Li content in a range from 96% to 83%, based on the total cation equivalents in the LiX. The adsorbent media composition is obtained from a slurry comprising water, a LiX precursor having a pre-media production Li content that is greater than the finished media LiX Li content, and another media component material, such as fibers. The water used to produced the media has a specific conductance in a range from 2.2 μSiemens/cm to 150 μSiemens/cm. The finished media LiX has a monovalent cation (Na, K, Rb, Cs and combinations thereof) in a range from 0.05% to 3%, based on the total equivalents of exchangeable cations in the finished media LiX.
US08388734B2	Dust-laden wet gas treatment A method for producing a CO2-enriched gas from a feed gas comprising carbon dioxide (CO2), at least one component selected from H2, N2, CH4, CO, O2 and argon, water vapor, optionally impurities such as NOx and/or SOx , and a solid-particle concentration of between 0.01 and 100 mg/m3, wherein the feed gas is at least partially dried upstream of a PSA unit in order to prevent the solid particles from caking in the PSA unit is provided.
US08388733B2	Hollow-fiber element for organic-vapor separation A hollow fiber element constituting a separation membrane module for separating an organic vapor is disclosed. At least one end part of a fiber bundle consisting of multiple hollow fiber membranes having a selective permeability is fixed and bound with a tube sheet formed by a cured material of an epoxy resin composition. Herein, a resin component of the epoxy resin composition contains an epoxy compound (A) represented by the following formula (1), an epoxy compound (B) represented by the following formula (2) and an aromatic amine compound (C), and wherein the epoxy compound (A) and the epoxy compound (B) are blended at a proportion in a range from 90:10 to 60:40 by weight; wherein R denotes alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms or hydrogen atom. The tube sheet has enough endurance to retain a gas-tightness of an internal space of the hollow fiber membrane and an external space of the hollow fiber membrane even in use under organic vapor with an elevated temperature and high pressure, and is suitably moldable in a stationary state as well.
US08388729B2	Method for ammoniacal leaching In accordance with the present invention there is provided a method for leaching one or more target metals from an ore, the method comprising the method steps of: curing the ore to be leached through the application of an aqueous solution of a curing agent, producing a cured ore; leaching the cured ore at atmospheric pressure through the application of an ammonium carbonate solution containing free ammonia, producing a pregnant leach solution; and passing the pregnant leach solution to a means for metals recovery.
US08388726B2	Processing copper sulfide ores Copper is chemically extracted from crude ores by first roasting it at temperature up to 500° C. for 90 minutes, then treating it with ammonium salt followed by leaching with sulfuric acid to obtain a soluble copper mass for further purification.
US08388722B2	Water-dispersible pellets A water-dispersible particle for delivery of fertilizer to a plant is disclosed. After delivery wetting of the particles causes particle dispersion so as to prevent secondary pick up to the particles. Methods for making and using the water-dispersible particle are described.
US08388721B2	Ceramic honeycomb filter and its production method A ceramic honeycomb filter comprising a honeycomb structure having large numbers of flow paths partitioned by porous cell walls, and plugs alternately formed in the flow paths on the exhaust-gas-inlet and outlet sides, the area ratio of pores opening at the cell wall surfaces being 20% or more, porous, cross-linked structures being formed by heat-resistant particles introduced together with a gas into penetrating holes constituted by communicating pores in the cell walls, such that they clog the penetrating holes, and the cross-linked structures being formed more on the exhaust-gas-outlet side of the ceramic honeycomb filter than on the exhaust-gas-inlet side.
US08388720B2	Jointing cement containing hollow spheres, for a particle filter Jointing cement intended in particular for fastening together a plurality of filter blocks of a filtering body for filtering exhaust gas particles of an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle, the cement including, in percentages by weight relative to the weight of the mineral material, apart from possible water and a possible mineral resin, between 30 and 90% of silicon carbide (SiC), at least 3% of hollow spheres including, in percentages by weight and for a total of at least 99%, between 20 and 99% of silica (SiO2) and between 1 and 80% of alumina (Al2O3), at least 80% by number of the hollow spheres having a size of between 5 and 150 μm.
US08388710B2	Cerium oxide powder, method for preparing the same, and CMP slurry comprising the same Disclosed is cerium oxide powder for a CMP abrasive, which can improve polishing selectivity of a silicon oxide layer to a silicon nitride layer and/or within-wafer non-uniformity (WIWNU) during chemical mechanical polishing in a semiconductor fabricating process. More particularly, the cerium oxide powder is obtained by using cerium carbonate having a hexagonal crystal structure as a precursor. Also, CMP slurry comprising the cerium oxide powder as an abrasive, and a shallow trench isolation method for a semiconductor device using the CMP slurry as polishing slurry are disclosed.
US08388706B2	Method using solar energy, microwaves and plasmas to produce a liquid fuel and hydrogen from biomass or fossil coal A system uses thermal solar energy coupled with microwaves and plasma for producing carbon monoxide (CO) and dihydrogen (H2) from carbonated compounds (biomass, domestic waste, sludge from waste water, fossil coal), wherein the obtained gaseous mixture yields, amongst others, hydrocarbon fuels (olefins, paraffin), esters, and alcohols via a Fischer-Tropsch synthesis. In a first step the carbonated compounds are roasted and pyrolized to produce char and dry coal, and a mixture of superheated gases containing CO2, steam, tars and non-condensable volatile materials. The method includes in a second step, and from the pyrolyis products (char or coal, gas mixture), generating a syngas substantially containing a mixture of carbon monoxide and dihydrogen, the mixture being used in Fischer-Tropsch synthesis units. After the Fischer-Tropsch step, the synthesis products are separated in a distillation column after heating in solar furnaces of mixed furnaces (solar/microwave).
US08388702B2	Convective dissolution of salts in situ ponds A unique method of convective dissolution of salts from in situ ponds by trenching salt beds, introducing dissolution waters to promote convective dissolution, pumping out the saturated solution from the pond bottom, and introducing additional dissolution waters.
US08388701B2	Composition and method for colouring hair A composition and method oxidative colors hair based on at least one oxidative dye precursor and having effervescent properties. An aqueous oxidative hair dyeing composition resulting from mixing two aqueous compositions A and B wherein the mixed composition has a pH below or equal to 7.0, preferably is in the range of 2 to 7.0, more preferably 3 to 7. Composition A comprises at least one oxidizing agent and at least one acidic compound and has a pH between 2 and 5, and composition B comprises at least one oxidative dye precursor, optionally at least one coupling agent, optionally at least one direct dye, at least one CO2 releasing compound and has a pH between 8 and 11.
US08388700B2	Composition and method for colouring hair A composition and method oxidative colors hair based on at least one oxidative dye precursor and comprises at least one fatty acid soap, preferably selected from sodium, potassium soaps and their mixtures. The composition is preferably applied onto hair as foam from a non-aerosol foamer vessel after mixing with a composition comprising at least one oxidizing agent.
US08388699B2	Method for levelling hair colour A method levels hair color, especially lighter colored hair or including lightened streaks or bleached streaks or bleached as a whole and after certain period of time contrast—difference in color—between the re-growth and formerly lightened parts is clearly visible. The method comprises at least two parts wherein one part being the part not closer to scalp which is artificially color changed to a lighter color by means of lightening and/or coloring and/or bleaching than the other part closer to scalp which is preferably undamaged and has its natural color, wherein hair is optionally shampooed and optionally towel dried and the part directly at the scalp, preferably undamaged and preferably has its natural color, is applied a composition resulting from mixing two compositions, A and B, prior to application.
US08388695B2	Apparatus and method for controlling laundering cycle by sensing wash aid concentration An automatic washing machine can be operated in accordance with a selected wash cycle by determining a concentration of a wash aid prior to a dispensing of the wash aid into at least one of a tub and a drum, and selecting an operating parameter of the automatic washing machine in response to the determined concentration.
US08388692B2	Thin film multilocular structure made of collagen, member for tissue regeneration containing the same, and method for producing the same A new structure made of collagen for improving promotion of nerve tissue regeneration, curing and regeneration of a defective part of a soft biological tissue and so on without using laminin or nerve growth factor (NGF), and a member for tissue regeneration including the same. The structure made of collagen has a thin film multilocular formation and is therefore a new structure different from a colloid form, a gel form, and a fiber form. When the new structure made of collagen is used as a member for tissue regeneration, surprisingly, promotion of regeneration, shortening of a treatment period, functional recovery, or the like of bodily tissue such as nerve tissue, subdermal tissue, submucosal tissue, membranous tissue, fat tissue, muscle tissue, skin tissue, and gingival tissue can be improved. When the structure is used in a patient having neuropathic pain, the member has an effect on the disappearance of the pain.
US08388678B2	Medical devices having porous component for controlled diffusion According to an aspect of the present invention, implantable or insertable medical devices are provided which contain the following: (a) substrate having one or more depressions that contain at least one therapeutic agent and (b) a porous membrane disposed over the substrate and the one or more depressions, which regulate transport of chemical species between the therapeutic-agent-containing depressions and the exterior of the device. The substrate and the porous membrane are formed of different materials each with a different thermal expansion coefficient. Moreover, one of the substrate and the porous membrane at least partially surrounds the other. Other aspects of the present invention are directed to methods of making such medical devices, and methods of treatment using such medical devices.
US08388676B2	Disintegrating stent and method of making same A temporary stent endoprosthesis that does not require an interventional procedure for removal. The disintegrating stent is preferably made from a bioabsorbable polymer, such as by braiding polymer monofilaments into a tubular mesh shape, and the polymer has fracture initiation sites within it that promotes the disintegration of the stent into small pieces that are harmlessly transported out of the body by the vessel contents. Fracture initiation sites may be created by controlling the heterogenous structure of amorphous and crystalline regions, by introducing internal or surface fracture initiation sites, or use of multiple strands with small section size.
US08388668B2	Methods to regulate polarization of excitable cells Minimally invasive delivery with intercellular and/or intracellular localization of nano- and micro-particle solar cells within and among excitable biological cells to controllably regulate membrane polarization of such cells. The cells include retinal and other sensory cells, muscle cells, and nerve cells.
US08388667B2	Systems and methods for the fixation or fusion of bone using compressive implants First and second bone segments separated by a fracture line or joint can be fixated or fused by creating an insertion path through the first bone segment, through the fracture line or joint, and into the second bone segment. An anchor body is introduced through the insertion path. The distal end of the anchor body is anchored in the interior region of the second bone segment. An elongated implant structure is passed over the anchor body to span the fracture line or joint between the bone segments. The proximal end of the anchor body is anchored to an exterior region of the first bone segment to place, in concert with the anchored distal end, the anchor body in compression, to thereby compress and fixate the bone segments relative to the fracture line or joint. A bony in-growth or through-growth region on the implant structure accelerates the fixation or fusion of the first and second bone segments held in compression and fixated by the anchor body.
US08388662B2	Anterior plating system and method Systems and methods for stabilizing the spine are provided. For stabilizing the L5-S1 junction, the system includes a plate that has a generally triangular shape with an upper node and a pair of lower nodes. The upper node has a hole through the plate to receive a screw for passage into the L5 vertebra. The lower nodes each include a hole through the plate to receive screws for passage into the S1 vertebra. The system further includes a plate having a retaining element for preventing backout of screws inserted through the plate. Instruments and methods for attaching the plate to the spinal column are also provided.
US08388661B2	Rod connector for attaching a bone anchor to a support rod and implantation instrument therefor A rod connector (1) is provided for use in attaching a bone anchor (5) to a support rod (3). The connector (1) comprises a first portion (2) defining a clamping means (6) with an aperture (7) in which the support rod (3) can be located, and a second portion (4) defining a first bore (9) in which a stem of the anchor (5) can be inserted. The connector (1) also comprises a means (12) defining a pivot axis (14) enabling it to be connected to an implantation instrument (11) and orientated in a first position wherein the clamping means (6) can be located around a support rod (3) and then rotated around the rod (3) into a second position relative thereto wherein said bone anchor (5) can be inserted into the bore (9) and then secured to an adjacent bone. In addition, the connector defines first and second retaining means (15, 16) enabling it to be retained by the instrument (11) respectively in said first position and in its second position.
US08388659B1	Spondylolisthesis screw and instrument for implantation A screw for use in spinal surgery provided with a screw shaft and a screw head and at least one extension tab extending proximally from the screw head, the extension tab being defined relative to the screw head by a stress concentration feature. At a proximal end of the extension tab, the extension tab may be narrower in a circumferential direction than the extension tab at a distal portion thereof. A particular shape of stress concentration may be provided.
US08388658B2	Dynamic spinal stabilization assembly with sliding collars A dynamic spinal stabilization assembly includes a rod having a plurality of slidable collars thereon. The rod is mounted to at least one of the relevant bone anchoring element(s) via the collars. The collars are spaced from one another such that the bone anchoring element engages at least two collars. The collars may be arranged on the rod so that adjacent collars are longitudinally spaced from one another by a distance not more than one-half the length of the rod-receiving channel in the relevant bone anchoring element. There may be elastic elements slidably disposed on the rod between adjacent collars.
US08388657B2	Spinous process spacer Interspinous process implants are disclosed. An Implant is adapted and configured to be placed between adjacent spinous processes. Implant is generally H-shaped or anvil shaped with a saddle portion or central support portion extending laterally along axis between lateral end portions. End portions partially protrude beyond the front and back surfaces of support portion thereby creating a slight indentation along the front and back or anterior and posterior of central portion.
US08388656B2	Interspinous spacer with deployable members and related method The present teachings provide one or more surgical implements for repairing damaged tissue, such as in the case of spinal stenosis. An implant for insertion between adjacent spinous processes is provided. The implant can include a body having a first end, a second end and defining a bore. The implant can include a first cap coupled to the first end of the body, a second cap coupled to the second end of the body, with each of the caps defining a space. The implant can include a connector coupled to the first cap and the second cap through the bore. The implant can include at least one deployable member coupled to the first end of the body and the first cap. The at least one deployable member can be retained within the first space in a first position, and can extend from the first space in a second position.
US08388655B2	Compact line locks and methods A line lock includes a body at least partially bounding two passageways that cooperate to receive a locking portion of a line such as a suture in such a manner that the locking portion can only be drawn through the passageways along one direction. A second suture locking portion may also received by the passageways, or by one of the two passageways in combination with a third passageway. The body may have an elongated, compact shape that is easily implantable in the body.
US08388652B2	Surgical stapling apparatus having a wound closure material applicator assembly This disclosure relates to surgical stapling apparatus for enhancing one or more properties of body tissue that is or is to be repaired or joined. The apparatus includes a staple anvil, a staple cartridge, a driving member for driving the surgical staples from individual staple slots in the staple cartridge and against the staple anvil, and a wound closure material applicator assembly. The applicator assembly includes at least one conduit extending along at least a length of the driving member, anvil and/or cartridge and at least one reservoir in fluid communication with the at least one conduit, the reservoir containing a wound closure material therein. The staples can be coated with a wound to closure material.
US08388651B2	Apparatus and method for driving a hemorrhage occluder pin into a human sacrum A method and apparatus to terminate sacral hemorrhaging in a patient having a sacrum and a pubic bone is disclosed. A C-shaped driver is positioned around the pubic bone of the patient and a hemorrhage occluder pin is driven into the sacrum of the patient by applying an impact force to a proximal end of the C-shaped driver. The driver may include a C-shaped shaft that defines a radius in the range 50 mm to 200 mm and a maximum span in the range 100 mm to 650 mm. The proximal end of the C-shaped shaft may have a blunt face with a breadth that is at least 2.5 times the diameter of the pin cap. A shaft distal end has a driver face facing away from an interior of the C-shape, and defining a driver face diameter that is preferably no less than 50% of the pin cap diameter.
US08388650B2	Systems and methods for supporting or occluding a physiological opening or cavity Implantable devices for placement at a cavity or opening such as an aneurysm are disclosed. The implantable devices, in a deployed condition, have a generally inverted U-shaped profile with a curved or angled framework support structure sized and configured for placement in proximity to tissue surrounding the opening and anchoring legs extending proximally from the framework structure sized and configured to contact the wall of a neighboring lumen at opposed locations. Occlusive and semi-occlusive membranes may be associated with the framework support structure and deployed over the opening to provide exclusion of the opening and flow diversion. Proximal anchoring segments providing additional lumen wall surface area contact for the implantable device following deployment may be incorporated.
US08388640B2	Catheter with a polymide distal tip A catheter having an elongated shaft which has a multilayered distal tip with a first layer formed of a polyimide first material and a second layer formed of a polymeric second material. In one embodiment the multilayered distal tip is a separate member, distal to the distal end of a proximal portion of the shaft. In another embodiment, the shaft has an outer tubular member, and a multilayered inner tubular member with a distal end which forms the multilayered distal tip of the shaft. In a presently preferred embodiment, the polyimide material is a thermoset polyimide. In one embodiment, the polymeric second material is a polyamide material.
US08388639B2	Lancing devices A lancet device includes a main body in which is located a lancet drive shaft 20 having a lancet holder 22 at its front end. A front housing flap 12 is hinged to the front of the main body portion and opens to allow insertion/withdrawal of a lancet. A multi-function cocking/ejection element 16 is operable both to cock the drive shaft prior to firing and to eject a lancet from the lancet holder after firing. The cock/eject element also unlatches the front flap 12.
US08388638B2	Ultrasonic surgical instrument, shears and tissue pad, method for sealing a blood vessel and method for transecting patient tissue An ultrasonic surgical shears has a bifurcated ultrasonic surgical blade, a clamping arm and a substantially “T”-shaped tissue pad. An alternate ultrasonic surgical shears has an ultrasonic surgical blade, a clamping arm, and a tissue pad having first and second transverse outer portions and a movable transverse central portion. An ultrasonic surgical instrument has an ultrasonic surgical clamp including an ultrasonic member adapted to ultrasonically vibrate and has a surgical cutter distinct from the ultrasonic member. A method for sealing a blood vessel of a patient includes obtaining an ultrasonic surgical clamp, sealing the blood vessel with the ultrasonic member, and transecting the sealed blood vessel using the surgical cutter. An alternate method similarly transects patient tissue and seals a blood vessel therein. An ultrasonic-surgical-shears tissue pad includes first and second transverse outer portions which are more resiliently flexible than is a transverse central portion.
US08388636B2	Rotational atherectomy device with distal protection capability and method of use A rotational device for removing a stenotic lesion from within a vessel of a patient is disclosed. The device comprises a flexible hollow drive shaft having a distal end insertable into the vessel and an abrasive element located on the drive shaft proximal to the distal end of the drive shaft to abrade a stenotic lesion when the drive shaft rotates. The hollow drive shaft defines a lumen for fluid supplied into the drive shaft to flow in an antegrade direction along the lumen and into the vessel from the drive shaft distal to the abrasive element so that the fluid entering the vessel flows in a retrograde direction over the abrasive element and the drive shaft to entrain debris abraded by the abrasive element for removal of said debris from the patient.
US08388635B2	Catheter having an arrangement for removing an occluding object Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can provide a catheter which can include a removal mechanism which can excavate a tubular-organ occluding object. For example, the exemplary catheter can include: a sheath portion which can have a elongated lumen insertable into a tubular-organ. The catheter can further include an insertion member which can have a second elongated lumen which can be arranged free, slidably, and rotatably with respect to the lumen of the sheath portion. The catheter can also include a removal mechanism configured to remove a occluding object of the tubular-organ. The removal mechanism can include a support portion arranged at a distal portion of the insertion member and a plurality of rotating arrangements having at least one blade edge configured to excavate the occluding object. The support portion can have an axis of rotation that intersects an axis of extension of the insertion member.
US08388627B2	Surgical laser guide and method of use Methods and apparatus for aligning two or more longitudinally space parts of a body, such as leg bones, prior to and/or during a surgical procedure using a laser light guide assembly are described. The apparatus may have a saddle for attachment to a specific body part, and comprises a first horizontally rotatable structural member pivotably secured to the saddle or other support means, and a second rotatable structural member aligned vertically and perpendicular to the first structural member. A laser light guide which includes a laser is attached to the second structural member, the laser capable of generating a laser light beam of sufficient strength and intensity to allow for alignment of the body parts prior to and during a surgical procedure.
US08388626B2	Methods of employing calcium phosphate cement compositions and osteoinductive proteins to effect vertebrae interbody fusion absent an interbody device A minimal access method for mammalian vertebrae interbody fusion without the employment of an interbody device is described which comprises injecting a porous CaPC into an anterior portion of a disc space, and injecting an effective amount of fast-setting non-porous CaPC into an anterior portion of the disc space to rapidly produce a strong and stable interbody fusion without the employment of an interbody device. Methods are further described wherein at least one of the CaPCs comprises an effective amount of at least one osteoinductive protein. A minimal access method for vertebroplasty is described which comprises injecting an effective amount of a viscous non-porous CaPC into a vertebrae fracture channel to provide rapid stabilization and strength, and injecting a porous CaPC into trabecular bone space adjacent to the vertebrae fracture channel. Kits which relate to the methods of the present invention are described as well.
US08388623B2	Apparatus for introducing portals in bone having movable bone probe An apparatus for introducing a bone portal into a bone is described herein. An example apparatus for introducing portals into bone includes a stylet and a handle. The stylet is configured to support an infusion tube assembly. The infusion tube assembly comprises a bone portal. The handle is drivingly coupled to the stylet by a release mechanism. The release mechanism comprises a bone probe that, in a first configuration, extends generally parallel to the stylet. The release mechanism is operative to uncouple the driving coupling between the handle and the stylet upon axial motion of the bone probe relative to the handle. The stylet and bone probe are movable apart from one another to a second configuration.
US08388621B2	Retrodrill system The present disclosure relates to a method of creating a bone tunnel during ligament reconstruction surgery. The method includes placing a guide wire through the femur, the guide wire having a first end portion including a pointed tip and a second end portion; placing a drill mechanism over the first end portion of the guide wire, the drill mechanism having a first end portion including a drill bit and a second end portion including an attachment portion; coupling an adaptor assembly to the attachment portion, the adaptor assembly including a shaft; coupling a drill to the shaft and operating the drill to create a tunnel in the femur; coupling a drill bit assembly to the second end portion of the guide wire and locating the assembly against the drill bit of the attachment portion; and operating the drill to create a counter bore within the tunnel.
US08388619B2	Unilateral fixator A unilateral fixator for adjustment of a first bone portion relative to a second bone portion. The fixator includes a telescopically adjustable strut having first and second ends and a strut axis, and first and second compound joints. The first compound joint is coupled to the first end of the strut and to a first bone clamp, and includes a first gear mechanism controlling linear and rotational motion of the first bone clamp relative to first and second axes while the first bone clamp is engaged with the first bone portion. The first and second axes are generally orthogonal to one another and to the strut axis. The second compound joint is coupled to the second end of the strut and to a second bone clamp and includes a second gear mechanism controlling linear and rotational adjustment of the second bone clamp. The first compound movable joints can rotate about the strut axis.
US08388618B2	Control of mucus membrane bleeding with cold plasma The use of non-thermal plasma to treat mucus membrane bleeding is described herein. A non-thermal plasma is generated using an apparatus having a first electrode that receives alternating electrical potentials from a power supply. When placed in an appropriate location proximate to tissue, a non-thermal plasma is generated, the second electrode being human tissue, blood, etc. To reduce the likelihood of an arc being generated, potentially causing tissue damage or pain, the first electrode is partially encapsulated by a dielectric. The non-thermal plasma is applied to the area of bleeding for treatment.
US08388616B2	Compression sleeve In a compression sleeve for the local enclosure of a blood vessel or vein area comprising a retaining structure of a biocompatible material, the retaining structure is a flexible mat consisting of a mesh or net-like structure provided with an arrangement holding the retaining structure in a vein enclosing position.
US08388610B2	Treatment pattern monitor The invention relates to an apparatus and a method for determining the applicability of a treatment pattern for manipulation of a cornea of an eye using a laser. The concept of the present invention is based on the determination of an actual volumetric profile based on a set of input data and a theoretical volumetric profile which is created independently based on only the basic optical parameters. On the basis of a comparison of the determined volumetric profiles it is determined whether the actual volumetric profile is within predetermined tolerances.
US08388606B2	Locking mechanism Provided herein are a locking mechanism including a male extension including a straight portion and a graduated step portion; and a female extension configured to receive the male extension, and including a pair of protruding tabs, which are spaced apart to allow the straight portion of the male extension to pass through a space between the protruding tabs, and which contact the graduated step portion if the male extension is inserted a first predetermined distance into the female extension.
US08388605B2	Manipulator apparatus and medical device system A medical device system includes a manipulator including a plurality of joints, a parameter storing portion for storing joint parameters, including a largest available force, of each joint of the plurality of joints, a trajectory inputting portion for inputting, as a trajectory plan, trajectories for moving a distal end of the manipulator from a current position and attitude to a target position and attitude, a trajectory setting portion for setting a joint angle trajectory for each joint providing a largest available force from among joint angle trajectories which allow movement to the target position and attitude with a minimum number of driven joints based on a largest available force parameter for the each joint stored in the parameter storing portion and the trajectory plan.
US08388604B2	Devices, systems, and methods for removing contrast from luminal organs Devices, systems, and methods for removing contrast from luminal organs. In at least one embodiment of a device for removing contrast from luminal organs of the present disclosure, the device comprises an elongated body having at least one lumen extending therethrough and an aperture defined along the elongated body, said aperture configured to facilitate withdrawal of contrast from a mammalian luminal organ, a first detector for detecting a contrast present within the mammalian luminal organ, the detector positioned at or near a distal end of the elongated body, an inflatable balloon coupled to the elongated body proximal to the detector, and a second detector for detecting balloon inflation, the second detector positioned along the elongated body within the balloon.
US08388601B2	Viscoelastic solution or gel formulation, and methods of treating a body site with the same The invention relates to method of preparing a viscoelastic therapeutic liquid comprising a viscoelastic agent and a homogenously distributed therapeutically active agent, wherein the therapeutically active agent is distributed throughout the viscoelastic compound when the viscoelastic compound is in dry form. In one embodiment of the invention, the viscoelastic compound in dry form is mixed with an aqueous solution of the therapeutically active agent. The invention further relates to utilities of homogenous viscoelastic compositions in therapeutic applications including ophthalmic surgery.
US08388597B2	Bag system with device for associating sampling receptacles The invention includes a bag system for collecting a biological fluid, in particular blood. The system includes a device for collecting the fluid which is in fluid communication with at least one fluid collection bag, and a device for sampling the fluid to be collected which includes at least one sampling receptacle. The sampling device includes a device for transferring the fluid from the bag system into the sampling receptacle or receptacles, in which the transfer device is provided with a device for associating the receptacle or receptacles. The transfer device may be arranged to allow the support of the receptacle or receptacles in a standby position, the guidance of the receptacle or receptacles to a transfer position and, after transfer, the dissociation of the receptacle or receptacles from the bag system.
US08388594B2	Stretchable laminates of nonwoven web(s) and elastic film A stretchable laminate, a process of making a stretchable laminate and a disposable absorbent article that includes a stretchable laminate are disclosed. The stretchable laminate includes a nonwoven web and a web of elastomeric material. The nonwoven web includes three layers of spunbond fibers and two layers of meltblown fibers. The side of the nonwoven web that includes two layers of spunbond fibers is attached to the elastomeric material.
US08388593B2	Fluid management article having body-faceable protrusions A fluid-management article, such as a sanitary napkin, comprises a body-faceable, liquid-pervious cover having a top surface, a garment-faceable, liquid-impervious barrier, and an absorbent system intermediate the cover and the barrier. The fluid-management article comprises a plurality of fluid-guiding channels that surround a plurality of isolated protrusions. The channels and the protrusions are formed through the top surface of the cover of the fluid management article. The protrusions have an apex that extends a height greater than about 0.5 millimeters (mm) above at least a portion of the plurality of channels. The protrusions have a number density greater than about 0.15 protrusions/cm2.
US08388591B2	Individually packaged absorbent article assembly An individually packaged absorbent article assembly including a tri-folded absorbent article having two end portions and an intermediate portion, and a pouch containing the tri-folded absorbent article, the pouch be structured and arranged to enable a user to selectively open the pouch to thereby expose a garment-facing surface of the intermediate portion of the absorbent article prior to exposing a garment facing surface of either of the end portions of the absorbent article.
US08388590B2	Absorbent article having a functional enhancement indicator A feminine hygiene article having a body-facing surface, a first end region and a second end region. The feminine hygiene article is for placement in an undergarment having a crotch portion bounded on opposite sides by portions of curved leg openings, the feminine hygiene article comprising at least one functional enhancement indicator visible from said body-facing surface, the functional enhancement indicator corresponding to at least one functionally-enhanced portion of the feminine hygiene article. The feminine hygiene article can be a sanitary napkin, a pantiliner, or an incontinence pad.
US08388588B2	Urine receiver Here is disclosed a urine receiver. The urine receiver which collects urine of a wearer of the urine receiver under suction force has a container member provided with a bottom, a peripheral wall and flange. The container member has a suction tube which extends through the peripheral wall and has a urine suction port opening toward the interior of the container member and a urine evacuation port opening toward the exterior of the container member. The evacuation port is adapted to be connected to a connector of a urine suction means provided externally of the container member.
US08388587B1	Disposable urine collection device A disposable urine collection pouch made from diaper-like material formed in the shape of an elongated tube having an open top end and a closed bottom end. The open top end includes a funnel that leads from the opening down into the elongated tube. The elongated tube includes a superabsorbent layer to lock in and retain moisture introduced into the pouch. The funnel is made from a resilient material that flexes between a default closed position and an open position upon the exertion of sufficient and appropriate pressure by a user. After use, the pouch may be folded and disposed of in a plastic bag or otherwise deposited in a trash receptacle.
US08388582B2	Systems and methods for operating interventional catheters using a common operating console and adaptive interface components Interventional catheter assemblies, operating systems and adaptive interface components allow operation of a variety of interventional catheter assemblies, including infusion catheters, aspiration catheters and interventional catheters that provide both infusion and aspiration, using a common control console housing infusion and aspiration systems. Control instructions for operating the interventional catheter assembly and authentication protocols for verifying system matches and operating conditions maybe encoded in hardware, firmware or software, such as a memory or storage device, provided in the interventional catheter assembly or in a discrete adaptive interface component. Adaptive components such as tubing cassettes routing aspiration and/or infusion tubing in a predetermined configuration to mate with aspiration and infusion systems on a control console are also provided.
US08388580B2	Fluid injection apparatus having a syringe presence sensor The fluid injection apparatus is adapted for use with a syringe and includes an injector and a pressure jacket associated with the injector. The injector includes a housing defining an opening for a drive piston extendable from the housing. The pressure jacket secures the syringe during an injection procedure. The pressure jacket has a distal end defining a syringe receiving opening for receiving the syringe, and a proximal end associated with the housing and generally aligned with the opening. The apparatus includes a syringe sensor adapted for engagement by the syringe when loaded into the pressure jacket. The housing may have an engagement tab adapted to engage an engagement recess in the pressure jacket to removably engage the pressure jacket with the housing. The apparatus may have one or more light sources associated with the housing for illuminating the syringe received in the pressure jacket.
US08388578B2	Non-electric fluid heating component for use with fluid dispenser A non-electric heater apparatus for controllably heating and cooling fluid medicaments flowing from a medicament dispenser through the fluid delivery member of the apparatus by adding a suitable solution or solvent to a chemical component, such as magnesium chloride, or the like, to create an exothermic process that can be used to heat the fluid delivery member and the fluid flowing there through.
US08388576B2	Dilator and a method of manufacturing the same A Dilator and a method of manufacturing the same A medical dilator for a gastrostomy feeding tube comprising a first portion (12) a second portion (38) and a central filament (34) having a first end and a second end wherein the first end of the central filament (34) is connected to the first portion (12) and the second end of the central filament (34) is connected to the second portion (38) such that the first and second portion are able to couple together to form an assembled dilator and the central filament is able to fold to form a pull loop. A method of manufacturing the dilator, a tube adapted to be engaged by the dilator and a kit comprising the same.
US08388573B1	Local delivery with a balloon covered by a cage A catheter configured for delivering an agent to a patient's vessel wall is described. The catheter includes an inflatable balloon substantially covered by a expandable cage such that when the inflatable balloon is inflated the expandable cage substantially surrounds an outer surface of the inflated balloon. The inflatable balloon is configured to be deployed within a lumen against a lumen wall and separated from the lumen wall by the expandable cage in an expanded state, and is adapted to provide an agent delivery to a treatment site, and the expandable cage is further collapsible and is removable from said lumen.
US08388571B2	Fluid dispenser with non-electric fluid heating component A novel dispensing system for dispensing medicaments to a patient that includes means for controllably heating fluid medicaments within the dispensing system by converting a chemical component, such as calcium chloride or the like, into a solution or solvent by adding a suitable solution or solvent to create an exothermic process causing an increase in temperature of the mixed solution.
US08388570B2	Controlled tissue cavity distending system with minimal turbulence The present invention provides a system and a method for distending a body tissue cavity of a subject by continuous flow irrigation by using a dynamic pump, such as a centrifugal pump, on the inflow side and a positive displacement pump, such as a peristaltic pump, on the outflow side, such that the amplitude of the pressure pulsations created by a the said outflow positive displacement pump inside the said tissue cavity is substantially dampened to almost negligible levels. The present invention also provides a method for accurately determining the rate of fluid loss, into the subject's body system, during any endoscopic procedure without utilizing any deficit weight or fluid volume calculation, the same being accomplished by using two fluid flow rate sensors. The present invention also provides a system of creating and maintaining any desired pressure in a body tissue cavity for any desired cavity outflow rate. The system and the methods of the present invention described above can be used in any endoscopic procedure requiring continuous flow irrigation few examples of such endoscopic procedures being hysteroscopic surgery, arthroscopic surgery, trans uretheral surgery, endoscopic surgery of the brain and endoscopic surgery of the spine.
US08388566B2	Oxygenator with integrated arterial filter including filter frame An oxygenator combines, in a single structure, a heat exchanger, a gas exchanger, an arterial filter, and a filter frame. Such an oxygenator permits fewer fluid connections and thus may simplify an extracorporeal blood circuit, including a heart-lung machine and a blood reservoir, in which it is used. In some embodiments, the oxygenator may be configured to include multiple purge ports for purging bubbles both before and after filtering the blood.
US08388565B2	Apparatus comprising a drive cable for a medical device (II) An article comprising a drive cable suitable for high-speed operation in an anatomy having small-radii bends is disclosed. The drive cables disclosed herein include one or more physical adaptations that enable them to be “tuned” to avoid large amplitude vibrations during operation.
US08388560B2	Rolling massager with thermal enhancement A massager device providing multiple massaging effects with thermal enhancement is disclosed. The device comprises a cylindrical body with a first end which is closed and a second end which is open, a first cap coupled to the first end, and a second cap coupled to the second end, an assembly of DC vibrator embedded in the first end, and a switch embedded in the first cap. The cylindrical body comprises an inner layer and an outer layer. The inner layer is made of ABS materials. The outer layer is made of silicone rubber and comprises a base sheet and an array of evenly spaced identical elastic nipples positioned outwardly with their bottoms embedded in the base sheet. The first cap and the second cap have substantially identical exterior shape and size, each of which having an inner layer made of ABS materials and a silicone rubber ring coupled to the inner layer's exterior. The hollow space made by the cylindrical body and the second cap may contain thermal media such as water or gel. In operation, the user may enjoy massaging effects from the silicone rubber nipples, the silicone rubber rings on the both ends, as well as the high temperature or lower temperature controlled by the thermal media contained in the hollow space.
US08388557B2	Portable compression device A portable compression device for compressing at least a portion of a mammal's limb is provided. The portable compression device can use mechanical compression to apply an external pressure to the portion of the limb to thereby propagate blood flow return in the direction of the mammal's heart. In at least one embodiment, the portable compression device can accomplish this mechanical compression through the use of at least one frame, actuator, drum, and flexible elongate member. The actuator can move the drum between a first position and a second position. The flexible elongate member can be engaged with at least a portion of the drum and can at least partially circumscribe a portion of the limb of the mammal, such that the movement of the drum between the first and second positions can apply tension to the flexible elongate member to thereby apply a compressive force to the limb.
US08388553B2	Cycle and load measurement device The present application relates to a sensing system for an medical device, the sensing system having at least one sensor for measuring movement of the medical device and a recording device for storing movement data from the at least one sensor. The application also relates to a method for evaluating a patient's compliance with a healing regimen, the patient provided with a medical device, the method having the steps of a) collecting movement data relating to movement of a sensing system affixed within, to, or near the medical device; b) retrieving the movement data from the sensing system; and c) analyzing the movement data and comparing the movement data to standard movement data to evaluate the patient's compliance with the healing regimen.
US08388550B2	Guidable cutting instrument A guidable cutting instrument for cutting a tissue specimen from a tissue mass comprises a cannula having a curve formed along a distal portion thereof, and a stylet having a specimen-receiving notch and a curve formed along a distal portion thereof. The stylet is received in the cannula, and is axially extendable therefrom such that the notch is capable of penetrating the tissue mass. The cannula is axially movable over the extended stylet for severing the specimen from the mass for capture in the notch. The cannula and stylet are each structured and arranged for relative rotation between a first position wherein the cannula curve and the stylet curve are in phase to define a curved condition for a length of the cutting instrument, and a second position wherein the cannula curve or stylet curve is rotated relative to the other curve in a manner to define a generally linear condition of the cutting instrument. The selective relative curvature allows the cutting instrument to be steered around obstructions encountered in the body under real time visualization.
US08388547B2	Method of noninvasive electrophysiological study of the heart The invention relates to medicine, namely to cardiology, cardiovascular surgery, functional diagnosis and clinical electrophysiology of the heart. The invention consists in reconstructing electrograms, whose experimental registration requires an invasive access, by computational way on unipolar ECGs recorded at 80 and more points of the chest surface. Based on reconstructed electrograms, isopotential, isochronous maps on realistic models of the heart are constructed, the dynamics of the myocardium excitation is reconstructed and electrophysiological processes in the cardiac muscle are diagnosed. Application of the method allows one to improve the accuracy of non-invasive diagnosis of cardiac rhythm disturbances and other cardio-vascular diseases.
US08388545B2	System, method and apparatus for measuring blood flow and blood volume A method of calculating blood flow in an organ of a subject using output radiofrequency signals transmitted to the organ and input radiofrequency signals received from the organ, the method comprises determining a phase shift of the input radiofrequency signals relative to the output radiofrequency signals and using the phase shift to calculate the blood flow in the organ.
US08388544B2	System and method for measuring blood viscosity A technique is provided for computing or monitoring blood viscosity. The technique includes measuring a cross sectional area of a arterial segment and a volumetric flow rate of blood flowing through the arterial segment at two or more locations, estimating a compliance transfer function from blood measurements to scale the arterial cross sectional area into a pressure waveform, deriving a transmission line model of the arterial segment based on the cross sectional area, as scaled by the compliance transfer function, of the arterial segment at the two or more locations and the volumetric flow rate of blood at the two or more locations. The technique also includes computing the blood viscosity based on the transmission line model.
US08388529B2	Differential diagnosis of neuropsychiatric conditions A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer program product for generating neuropsychiatric diagnoses. Quantitative information describing diagnostic characteristics associated with a patient is generated based on an analysis of a set of patient scans. The quantitative information comprises a set of indictors associated with regions of interest in the set of scans for the patient. The set of indicators of potential neuropsychiatric conditions is compared with a set of diagnostic signatures. A diagnostic signature comprises a set of indicators of a known neuropsychiatric condition. Matching signatures are identified. A matching signature is a diagnostic signature that corresponds to at least one indicator in the set of indicators to form a set of signatures. A diagnosis associated with each signature in the set of signatures is identified to form a set of potential diagnoses. The set of potential diagnoses is presented with links to relevant portion of the medical literature.
US08388525B2	Atrial lift retractor A retractor includes a retractor support and an elongated retractor blade. The retractor blade has a first, closed position in which ends of the blade are positioned proximal to the support and a second, open position in which ends of the blade are positioned distal to the support. The retractor support has structure for engaging the retractor blade. A handle extends from the retractor support. A method of retracting tissue is also disclosed.
US08388520B2	Shape control endoscope Methods and devices are provided for controlling an endoscope in a body cavity. In one exemplary embodiment, a stiffening element for an endoscopic surgical system includes an elongate member having a diameter configured for insertion and use in a channel of an endoscope. The elongate member can be movable between an unlocked position in which the elongate member is freely movable to assume a desired configuration, and a locked position in which the elongate member is maintained in a desired configuration. In one embodiment, the elongate member is formed from a plurality of links that are pivotally coupled to one another. Methods for controlling a surgical device in a body cavity, as well as systems for use in endoscopic surgeries, are also provided herein.
US08388517B2	In-vivo information acquisition system and drive method therefor An in-vivo observation system includes a capsule endoscope and a magnetic field generating apparatus. The capsule endoscope includes an in-vivo observation section, a radio sending section, a battery, a magnetic field detection section for detecting a magnetic field signal, and a power supply control section for controlling state of power supply from the battery to the in-vivo observation section and the radio sending section by toggle operation based on a detection result by the magnetic field detection section. The magnetic field generating apparatus includes a magnetic field generating section, an operation switch for giving a command to start generating the magnetic field signal, a state determination section for determining the state of power supply, and a magnetic field generation control section for controling generation of the magnetic field signal based on the command from the operation switch and a determination result by the state determination section.
US08388516B2	Camera holder device and method thereof An improved interface between the surgeon and an endoscope system for laparoscopic surgery, holding a laparoscopic came and/or controlling an automated endoscope assistant includes at least one wireless transmitter with at least one operating key (12a). at least one wireless receiver (11), at least one conventional laparoscopy computerized system (15) loaded with conventional surgical instrument spatial location software, and conventional automated assistant maneuvering software, software loaded onto to the conventional laparoscopy system that enables a visual response to the depression of at least one key on the wireless transmitter as well as an interface with the conventional automated assistant maneuvering software so as to achieve movement of the endoscope, and at least one video screen (30).
US08388515B2	System for use in surgical procedures The present disclosure relates to a system for use in surgical procedures. The system includes an endoscope; an imaging device coupled to the endoscope; an imaging processor coupled to the imaging device; and at least one management system coupled to the imaging processor, wherein a function of the management system is automatically adjusted upon receipt of a communication from the imaging processor. A method of adjusting an image of a surgical site during a surgical procedure is also disclosed.
US08388514B2	Surgical articles and methods for treating pelvic conditions Described are devices, implants, insertion tools, combinations, and associated methods, that involve placement of a self-fixating tip at tissue of the pelvic region, wherein an insertion tool includes one or more of an aperture for engaging a guide and an extension guard, the method optionally allowing for initial placement of a self-fixating tip at tissue of the pelvic region and adjustment of the location of the self-fixating tip.
US08388512B2	Systems and methods for music therapy Systems and methods for using particular types of music compositions having certain characteristics to treat depression and related disorders, autism, and other disorders are described. The music for use in music therapy efforts includes characteristics for modification of the psycho-physiological apparatus and response including the use of vocal invented language elements to simulate pre-verbal communication and elements to coincide with and work with natural chrono-biological and circadian rhythms. For example, activating elements are provided in some compositions that are to be played immediately prior to a peak of chrono-biological activity. As another example, other compositions include de-activating elements to improve relaxation immediately prior to a natural low of chrono-biological activity. Such activating and de-activating elements include musical elements such as changes of volume, frequency selection, and tempo. The compositions may be used to treat depression and other disorders based on timing and application of music therapy using the compositions.
US08388508B2	Crumpling mechanism for creating dunnage A dunnage crumpling apparatus is provided having first and second entry-side crumpling members and first and second exit-side crumpling members. The first and second entry-side crumpling members define an entry therebetween. The first and second exit-side crumpling members define an exit therebetween that is disposed along the longitudinal path downstream of the entry. A crumpling zone being defined between the entry and exit. The first entry-side crumpling member is configured for moving at an first rate and is associated with the second entry-side crumpling member for moving sheet material through the entry in a first direction along a longitudinal path at an entry rate. The first exit-side crumpling member is configured for moving at an second rate and is associated with the second exit-side crumpling member for moving the sheet material through the exit in the first direction along the path at a exit rate that is slower than the entry rate to crumple the sheet material for producing dunnage. The entry and exit-side crumpling members are displaced laterally along the path with respect to each other to cause shearing of the sheet within the crumpling zone.
US08388507B2	Tray forming apparatus A tray forming apparatus forms a blank into a tray having a double glued side wall construction for providing a desirable strength to the tray. A platen drives the blank through a forming rails which fold the blank into a partially formed tray having bottom, end and side walls, and inside corner supports formed about the platen. The platen is retracted prior to folding arms further extended portions of the partially formed tray. A compression plate and the folding arms are biased against adhesive portions of the tray for forming a fully formed tray having a double glued side wall construction.
US08388505B2	Seat Seats that are moveable from a seating orientation, which allows a user to sit on the seat, to a standing orientation, where the seat at least partially supports the user in a standing posture are disclosed. At least a portion of the seat is moveable away from the user's legs when the seat is in the standing position.
US08388501B2	Play gyms and methods of operating the same Play gyms and methods of operating the same are disclosed. A disclosed example includes a floor mat dimensioned to be positioned within a play yard and/or a bassinet. It also includes a play gym to suspend an object above the mat when the mat is positioned in the play yard and/or the bassinet, and at least one connector to couple the play gym to the mat when the mat is removed from the play yard and/or the bassinet.
US08388500B2	Fitness applications of a wireless device Methods and systems for use in connection with a fitness routine and/or an exercise apparatus. In one such method, fitness information is stored in a fitness analysis system and operative communication is established with an exercise apparatus and/or a wireless communication device. A fitness information request is received at the fitness analysis system, and the system sends a setting associated with the exercise apparatus to facilitate a workout using an exercise apparatus. The system receives exercise information corresponding to the workout, and updates fitness information during the workout. The updated fitness information is analyzed to generate associated with the exercise apparatus to facilitate a subsequent workout.
US08388492B2	Method for determining states of hybrid drive train of a vehicle A method for determining conditions of a hybrid drive train of a motor vehicle. The method determines, the actual conditions (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8) of the drive train from predetermined condition parameters of the actuating device of the hybrid control. The condition parameters include whether or not a flow of force is present between a combustion engine (VM) and an electrical engine (EM), whether or not the combustion engine (VM) is operating, and whether or not a flow of force to the output is present.
US08388488B2	Eight, nine and ten speed automatic transmissions An automatic transmission includes four planetary gear sets, a plurality of friction and synchronizing clutches and two drive assemblies. Input torque is provided to four clutches which selectively provide torque to various elements of the first and second planetary gear assemblies. Similarly, various elements of the first and second planetary gear assemblies provide power to the two drive assemblies which may either be chain drive or gear assemblies. The outputs of the drive assemblies drive sun gears of the third and fourth planetary gear assemblies. The transmission output is connected to and driven by the planet carriers of the third and fourth planetary assemblies. Sequenced operation of the friction and synchronizing clutches provides eight, nine or ten forward speeds or gear ratios.
US08388475B2	Water skipping game bag A water skipping game bag. The game bag can include a liquid-permeable cover having a hydrophobic exterior surface and enclosing an interior chamber, a liquid-permeable pouch disposed within the chamber, a filler material having fluid properties, and a liquid-absorbent core disposed within the pouch. The game bag can absorb water and deform so as to improve skipping performance, increase ease of catching and throwing the bag, and reduce the likelihood of injury from impact by the bag.
US08388474B1	Low profile helical arrow vane Disclosed is a vane that can be attached to an arrow shaft to provide substantial stabilization in arrow flight through increased drag and arrow shaft spin. Embodiments of the inventive vane do not significantly increase the weight of an arrow and/or create a high probability of clearance problems with bow components. The vane is approximately 3.997 inches long and 0.327 inches high including the base height. The vane fin is approximately 0.28 inches high. Some embodiments may have a length approximately 2.997 inches long. An advantage of some embodiments is that the vane may be applied to an arrow shaft in a helical fashion.
US08388469B1	Inlay golf ball marker A golf ball marker includes a base and an ornamental inlay. The base defines a closed recess, and has a flat marginal surface surrounding the recess. The ornamental inlay is carried by the base, and held flush within the recess such that an outside surface of the inlay and the flat marginal surface of the base reside in substantially the same plane and form a substantially continuous smooth top surface of the ball marker.
US08388465B2	Golf club having removeable sole weight A golf club head is presented comprising a sole including a weight member secured to the sole via a non-threaded attachment assembly. Further, the weight member has a large surface area relative to its thickness, resulting in a chip-like or wafer-like weight member. This design allows the mass of the weight member to be spread substantially along the surface of the sole as opposed to in the interior of the club head. The golf club head may comprise more than one weight member.
US08388463B2	Golf putting trainer A golf training device comprising a cylindrical body having a proximal end and a distal end, a groove formed in the cylindrical body, and a roll ring configured to circumscribe the cylindrical body by releasably engaging the groove.
US08388462B1	Swinging aid A swinging aid for training a user can include a base for engaging a surface. The base can be operatively connected to a first portion of an adjustable stand. A horizontal member can connect to a second portion of the adjustable stand. The horizontal member can protrude from the adjustable stand. A head gear can be operatively connected to the horizontal member. The head gear can be configured to move in three dimensions and rotate three hundred sixty degrees to provide active feedback to the user.
US08388459B2	Golf swing training device and method of use A training golf club includes a shaft having a gripping end and an opposite end coupled with a club head. A club head face includes a planar striking face that is spaced from a club head sole. A lower face of the club head extends between a lower edge of the striking face to the sole of the club head, downwardly and rearwardly from the plane of the striking face. Striking a ball below a mid-plane of the ball with the striking face produces a desirable shot, whereas striking the ball above the mid-plane produces an undesirable shot. Repeated use of the club teaches a user to consistently swing a club with a forward shaft lean for optimal impact with a ball.
US08388458B2	Round ride with lateral flight A round ride configured to provide lateral flight or movement of the passenger vehicle. The ride includes a vehicle support or boom arm that includes a four-bar linkage with: a base link affixed to the rotating hub; a crank or driver link rotating about a pivotal connection with this base link by a rotary actuator; a vehicle support link pivotally connected at one end to the crank or driver link to move with this link and at a second or outboard end to a coupler that supports the vehicle; and a follower or connector link pivotally connected at its ends to the base link and vehicle support link. As the crank or driver link is rotated, the guest compartment moves along a motion profile defining irregular vertical movement (not simply a preset arc) and providing lateral movement, which changes the ride dynamics including changing vehicle velocity with varying vehicle radii.
US08388455B2	Antifriction bushing An antifriction bushing is provided for the bearing of a telescopable steering spindle having an inner spindle and an outer spindle which are disposed coaxially with respect to one another and displaceably with respect to one another and for the torque transmission have a cross section differing from circular. Between the outer spindle and the inner spindle, an interspace is provided for receiving the antifriction bushing consisting of a thermoplastic synthetic material or comprising such material. The bushing includes an inner surface and an outer surface, and consists of a mixture comprising the material PEEK and additionally at least one of the materials PTFE at a volume fraction of up to maximally 15% and/or graphite at a volume fraction of up to maximally 15% and/or carbon fibers at a volume fraction of up to maximally 40%.
US08388452B2	Game-based incentives for location-based actions Systems and methods for providing game-based incentives to users of online games as a reward for performing actions at physical locations are provided.
US08388451B2	Game-based incentives for location-based actions The present disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for providing game-based incentives to users of online games as a reward for performing actions at physical locations.
US08388450B1	Expanding the gaming social network with unrelated players Methods, systems, and computer programs for expanding gaming social networks with unrelated players are presented. For the player of an online game, one or more selection rules are determined defining a criterion for selecting users. The determined selection rules are applied resulting in a set of candidate game friends, where at least one of the candidate game friends does not have a social link with the player. Additionally, the method includes an operation for presenting the plurality of candidate game friends. An operation to link, in the online game, the player with at least one of the plurality of candidate game friends is then initiated in response to an input from the player. The operation to link may send a request to befriend the candidate, or to link the candidate without the need for permission when an automatic acceptance is in place.
US08388448B2	Methods and devices for downloading games of chance The present invention provides methods, devices and systems for downloading gaming software. According to some implementations of the invention, gaming software is continuously transmitted on a plurality of channels, e.g., by one or more servers. In some such implementations, each channel is dedicated to software for a different wagering game. In other implementations, gaming software components are transmitted on a plurality of channels, with each channel dedicated to a particular gaming software component. Some implementations provide gaming software in response to a request from a gaming machine. Implementations over dedicated and/or public networks are provided. Preferred implementations of the invention allow gaming software to be downloaded to gaming machines in a secure manner that automatically ensures that licensing and regulatory requirements are satisfied. Some such implementations determine whether payment is required for gaming software and provide for automated payment, if so required.
US08388444B2	Electronic gaming machine The present invention relates to a gaming machine and/or entertainment machine, in particular in the form of slot machines and/or gambling machines operable by coins and/or by monetary equivalents, having a plurality of screens for the presentation of information, in particular of game contents and/or of game information, which are directed toward a machine operating position, and having a control device for the control of the screens and/or for the control of game procedures. It is proposed to arrange a plurality of screens staggered behind one another and overlapping one another so that the viewing window onto at least one screen remains behind the actual screen surface of the screen with respect to format and/or size in order to accommodate a maximum number of screens in a compact arrangement, on the one hand, and in order not to be restricted to the desired field of view with respect to the formats of the screens to be used. Provision is made in accordance with the invention that at least one of the screens is arranged partly or fully hidden behind at least one further screen viewed from the machine operating position.
US08388442B2	Prevention of a user mimicking another user in a virtual world Methods and apparatus associate a computed difference factor to avatars that are to interact with one another in a simulated environment. Applying a difference factor to the avatars enables identification of similar avatars in order to avoid mistaken identities among the avatars. The difference factor predicts probability that one avatar is mimicking another avatar. An attribute uniqueness algorithm may assign the difference factor based on name, appearance, and/or accessory similarity between two avatars. A user index may be used to store data describing attributes of each avatar for analysis using programs that are stored in memory and that execute the attribute uniqueness algorithm. Further, system validation of each avatar provides ability to protect and control likeness of the avatars in the virtual world.
US08388441B2	Method for displaying information about use of hack tool in online game Disclosed herein is a method for displaying information about the use of a hack tool in the online game. When a game IDentification (ID) is input, a client system accesses a security server, and requests and receives the number of times that one or more hack tools have been used for the game ID. The client system provides the game ID and the number of times that hack tools have been used to a game server so that the number of times that hack tools have been used is shared by one or more gamers who participate in the game provided by the game server. When the client system detects the use of a hack tool, the client system increases the number of times that hack tools have been used for the game ID by 1, and provides the number of times that hack tools have been used to the security server.
US08388438B2	Wagering game providing suggestion for game feature to be achieved in subsequent play A gaming system for conducting a wagering game includes a game display configured to display an array of symbols indicating a randomly selected outcome of the wagering game in response to receiving a wager from a player, an input device adapted to receive inputs from a player and to output a signal to a controller corresponding to the player inputs and a controller configured to conduct a wagering game and a game feature associated with the wagering game. The controller is further configured to enable play of the wagering game responsive to an input of a first wager and to enable the game feature responsive to an input of a second wager further to the first wager. The game feature provides an opportunity for the player to receive, further to a winning outcome in the wagering game, a first positive feature in the game feature, and provides an opportunity for the player to receive, further to a losing outcome in the wagering game, a second positive feature in the game feature.
US08388437B2	Gaming system, gaming device and method for providing an award based on an outcome counter Methods and apparatus for providing an award based on a multiplicity of game outcomes. In one implementation the invention provides a method for providing a game. The method includes placing a bet by a player, playing of a game to produce a game outcome, evaluating a primary game outcome, paying a direct award if the primary outcome merits it, advancing a bonus accumulator if the primary outcome merits it, and if the bonus accumulator has advanced sufficiently, paying a bonus award to the player and clearing the bonus accumulator.
US08388432B2	Bi-stable downloadable reel strips Disclosed are gaming machines, gaming machine reels, and configurable reel strips, including related methods, apparatus, and systems, including computer program products, for electronically altering and replacing information shown on a reel of a gaming machine. A reel strip with a configurable surface is provided on the reel. The configurable surface includes a bi-stable material such as electronic paper. The configurable surface of the reel strip has a plurality of configurable regions of the bi-stable material. The configurable regions can be configured to display information such as designated symbols of a game of chance. In this way, the displayed symbols can be replaced without having to physically replace the reel strip or reel. Generally, symbol information is output for display on the configurable regions during a power on state. The bi-stable nature of the configurable regions enables the designated symbols to also be displayed during a power off state.
US08388429B2	Player tracking apparatus and gaming machine and control method thereof A configuration is provided to execute the processing of: causing a light emitting portion to emit light in a first mode in a case where the number of cards stored in a memory is a preset first reference number or less; and causing the light emitting portion to emit light in a second mode in a case where the number of cards stored in the memory is a preset second reference number or more. In this manner, a gaming machine is provided in such a manner that a variety of information can be provided to a player and replenishment of IC cards or removal of redundant IC cards can be performed timely.
US08388426B2	Method and software for making number place puzzles A method and computer software are provided for making number place puzzles. Numbers and unknown are represented by variables that are assigned values such as in a plurality of nested loops. Instructions within each loop limit access to embedded loops until all assigned values form a valid solution. When some of the variables are pre-assigned values to create a number place puzzle, the output will be all valid solutions, if any. Multiple solutions provide information that assists in modifying the pre-assigned values to obtain a single solution.
US08388424B2	Method and apparatus for modifying gaming machines to provide supplemental or modified functionality A method, apparatus, and article of manufacture for modifying the functionality of a legacy gaming device is disclosed. The legacy gaming device can include legacy gaming device processor configured to communicate with various input/output devices, such as a touch screen video display, over legacy communication paths to generate a wager-based game. An apparatus including a processor separate from the legacy gaming device processor can be configured to control an interruption of signals on at least one of the legacy communication paths and to generate substitute signals for the interrupted signals to modify the functionality of the legacy gaming device.
US08388421B2	Method and device for processing a carcass part of slaughtered poultry A device for processing a carcass part of slaughtered poultry, the carcass part, at the start of the process, including bone parts with at least a part of the rib cage, at least a part of the clavicle, and at least a part of the wing joint, at least a part of the outer fillet, where the part of the outer fillet that is present is connected to the part of the rib cage that is present, at least a part of the inner fillet, at least a tendon that connects the inner fillet to the wing joint, the device including an outer fillet guide to maintain at least a part of the outer fillet in the first position, a clavicle guide to hold the free ends of the wishbone in the second position, and at least one blade to cut through the tendon.
US08388418B2	Thumb-operated detachable liquid polish dispenser for a hand-held surface finishing power tool An elongated liquid polish dispenser is described that can be secured to and released from a bracket that stays on a hand-held rotary buffer such that a switch on the polisher is in a convenient position for an operator to press while gripping the polisher. A portion of the dispenser can be inserted through a hole in the bracket, and the entire dispenser can be rotated so that tabs securely attach the dispenser to the bracket and tool. The switch activates an electric pump which pumps liquid polish through a nozzle and onto a work surface.
US08388417B2	Large angle grinder An angle grinder is provided including a radial fan assembly. The radial fan assembly is configured to direct exhaust radially outwardly and axially away from a user of the angle grinder. Brush card assemblies for an angle grinder are also provided. The brush card assemblies provide for the securing of brush cards to a field case of the angle grinder by the interface between the field case and brush cards. Additionally, a spindle lock mechanism and a safety mechanism for an angle grinder are provided.
US08388416B2	Method for the manufacture of reinforced diamond-coated cables and cable obtained using such method The method relates to the manufacture of a reinforced diamond-coated cable for cutting structures and materials of steel, concrete, steel and concrete, stone materials or the like, in which such diamond-coated cable comprises a plurality of outer strands (101) of metal material such as steel or the like wound in a helix around an inner central strand (201) and a series of sheaths (2) inserted along such outer strands (101) and having on their external profiles (202) projecting members of strongly abrasive materials such as industrial diamonds or the like. The method comprises the following stages: a) at least partly unwinding the outer strands (101) between each pair of successive sheaths (2′, 2″) so as to space them apart to create a free space (3, 3′) between the outer strands (101) and the central strand (201), b) inserting a rigid mechanical interference member (4, 6) in the space between one outer strand and the other and in the said free space (3, 3′) to create an enlarged zone of suitable diameter (D) between each pair (2′, 2″) of successive sheaths, c) again helically winding the outer strands (101) around such rigid mechanical interference member (4, 6).
US08388412B2	Retaining ring with shaped profile Retaining rings with curved surfaces are described. The curved surfaces prevent damage to a fixed abrasive polishing pad when the retaining ring is used in a polishing process. The curved surfaces are on the bottom surface of the ring, such as along the outer diameter and/or along the sidewalls of channels formed in the bottom of the ring.
US08388408B2	Method of making diagram for use in selection of wavelength of light for polishing endpoint detection, method for selecting wavelength of light for polishing endpoint detection, and polishing endpoint detection method A method of producing a diagram for use in selecting wavelengths of light in optical polishing end point detection is provided. The method includes polishing a surface of a substrate having a film by a polishing pad; applying light to the surface of the substrate and receiving reflected light from the substrate during the polishing of the substrate; calculating relative reflectances of the reflected light at respective wavelengths; determining wavelengths of the reflected light which indicate a local maximum point and a local minimum point of the relative reflectances which vary with a polishing time; identifying a point of time when the wavelengths, indicating the local maximum point and the local minimum point, are determined; and plotting coordinates, specified by the wavelengths and the point of time corresponding to the wavelengths, onto a coordinate system having coordinate axes indicating wavelength of the light and polishing time.
US08388407B1	Apparatus for treating a workpiece with a granular media An apparatus for treating a workpiece with a granular media includes a hopper for storing media and discharging the media into a flow path. A source of compressed air mixes with the media, which is forced through a nozzle for directing media onto the workpiece. A flow sensor includes a beam extending into the flow path and is responsive to flow of media in the flow path to increase and decrease deflection of the beam in response to increasing or decreasing flow of media through said flow path. A proximity sensing device measures deflection of the beam and generates an electrical signal which varies in response to deflection of the beam. The flow path is defined by a conduit having a branch in which the beam is mounted. One end of the beam is mounted on a base in the branch. The base is mounted on a cap closing an open end of the branch, permitting the beam to be easily removed and changed when necessary.
US08388406B2	Brassieres A breast cup for a bra that has an outermost layer and an innermost layer and at least one intermediate panel that is captured between the innermost layer and the outermost layer. At least part of an edge of the intermediate panel is positioned at a location that is non-contiguous the perimeter of the cup. This defines within the cup perimeter at least two zones of different cross sectional composition that may offer a different hand feel of different parts of the cup.
US08388399B2	Method of manufacturing organic light-emitting display apparatus A method of manufacturing an organic light-emitting display apparatus according to a laser-induced thermal imaging (LITI) method, the method including patterning a transfer layer arranged on a donor film; disposing the donor film on an acceptor substrate; laminating the donor film on the acceptor substrate; transferring the transfer layer of the donor film to the acceptor substrate; and removing the donor film from the acceptor substrate.
US08388398B2	Method of manufacturing substrate and organic emitting display device having the substrate Provided are an organic light emitting display device and a method of manufacturing the same. The organic light emitting display device includes a substrate; an sealing substrate facing the substrate, an organic light emitting unit disposed between the substrate and the sealing substrate and having a plurality of organic light emitting devices emitting light, and a plurality of grooves formed in a light extracting surface of the organic light emitting display device through which the light is emitted to the outside. In one embodiment, the grooves are formed on the sealing substrate, and in another embodiment, the grooves are formed on the substrate.
US08388395B2	Method for manufacturing ignition plug A method for manufacturing an ignition plug is provided. The method includes: preparing an insulator having a cavity provided at a leading end portion thereof by disposing a leading end of a center electrode more inwards in an axial hole than a leading end of the insulator; building the insulator in an interior of a metal shell; disposing a ground electrode at a leading end portion of the metal shell; positioning a center of a through hole of the ground electrode and a center of the cavity of the insulator; and welding the ground electrode and the metal shell together after the positioning step.
US08388394B2	Method of repairing organic EL display In a method of repairing an organic EL display, in which when a foreign particle has contaminated a pixel electrode to cause a defect during manufacture of an organic EL display, it is possible to repair the defect locally and simply without damaging the vicinity of the repaired part of the pixel electrode by the repair. In manufacture of the organic EL display, a defect due to a foreign particle is repaired by detecting the foreign particle that has contaminated the pixel electrode, lowering a fine needle having a hemispherically-shaped tip downward toward the foreign particle, and plastic deforming the foreign particle and part of the pixel electrode together to bury the foreign particle into the pixel electrode. A short circuit due to a foreign particle is prevented by pressing the foreign particle into the pixel electrode.
US08388392B2	Steering device for outboard engine A steering device for an outboard engine includes: a helm mechanism operable, in response to operation of a steering wheel, to steer the outboard engine and including a drive shaft parallel to an output shaft of the operation member; an electric assist mechanism for detecting steering torque, applied to the steering wheel, to assist operation of the helm mechanism on the basis of the detected steering torque; and a power transmission section for connecting the output shaft of the steering wheel and the helm mechanism to transmit rotation of the output shaft to the helm mechanism.
US08388390B2	Outboard motor control apparatus In an apparatus for controlling operation of an outboard motor having an internal combustion engine, transmission and trim angle regulation mechanism, it is configured to change a gear position to the first speed when the gear position is in the second speed and a throttle opening change amount is at or above a predetermined value, start trim-up operation when the engine speed is at or above a first predetermined speed after the gear position is changed to the first speed, change the gear position from the first speed to the second speed when the engine speed is at or above a second predetermined speed after the trim-up operation is started, and stop the trim-up operation after the gear position is changed to the second speed. It can mitigate a deceleration feel generated when the gear position is changed upon the completion of the acceleration and prevent the pitching occurrence.
US08388389B2	Electrical connectors having opposing electrical contacts Electrical connector that includes a pair of electrical contacts. Each of the electrical contacts has a mounting portion and a flexible mating portion that is configured to electrically engage a conductive component. The mating portions of the electrical contacts are separated by a component-receiving space and oppose each other across the component-receiving space. The electrical connector also includes a spring clip that is configured to mechanically engage the mating portions and is movable with respect to the mounting portions. The spring clip has a pair of opposing clip arms and a bridge member that joins the clip arms. The clip arms are separated by a gap with the mating portions positioned therebetween. The clip arms are biased against the corresponding mating portions. The spring clip has a dielectric member that is positioned to electrically isolate at least one of the electrical contacts.
US08388387B2	Connecting terminal where operating element exerts a tensile force A connecting terminal (1) having an insulating-material housing (2) and having at least one spring clamping unit with a clamping spring (4) and a busbar section (3), in the insulating-material housing (2), is described. The clamping spring (4) has a contact section (6) and a clamping section (8) which is designed to clamp an electrical conductor against the busbar section (3). The clamping spring (4) has an operating section (13) which originates from the clamping section (8), extends away from the direction of the spring force, which acts on the clamping section (8), of the clamping spring (4) and is aligned to be acted on by an attachment element (16, 31, 33, 39) such that the operating element (16, 31, 33, 39) can be engaged with the operating section (13) in order to exert a tensile force, which acts on the operating section (13) in the opposite direction to the spring force when the operating element (16, 31, 33, 39) is moved, in order to open the clamping spring (4).
US08388383B2	Power adaptor structure A power adaptor structure comprises a plug member, a conversion member, a fixing member and a front cover. The plug member is joined to and electrically connected with the conversion member. After passing through the plug member and the conversion member, the fixing member is secured to the conversion member. The front cover is press-fitted with a front side of the conversion member to form a power adaptor structure having an input side and an output side. The power adaptor structure of the present invention is easy to assemble and has enhanced strength.
US08388381B2	Visible open for switchgear assembly An electrical connector assembly may include a connector body having a conductor receiving end, a first link interface, a second link interface, a first connector end, and a visible open port between the first link interface and the second link interface. The first link interface may be conductively coupled to the conductor receiving end and the second link interface may be spaced axially from the first link interface and conductively coupled to the first connector end. The first link interface and the second link interface are configured to receive a link assembly therein. An insulative material may be positioned within the connector body axially between the first link interface and the second link interface. At least a portion of the insulative material may be visible through the visible open port.
US08388372B2	Electrical connector with improved high frequency signal transmission environment An electrical connector defining a receiving cavity for receiving a corresponding plug includes an insulative housing and a number of contacts retained in the insulative housing. The contacts include a number of first contacts which are arranged in a row along a transverse direction of the insulative housing. The first contacts include two pairs of differential signal contacts and a grounding contact between said two pairs of differential signal contacts. Each first contact has a contact portion extending into the receiving cavity, a tail portion extending out of the insulative housing and a connecting portion between the contact portion and the tail portion. The connecting portion of the grounding contact is wider than that of the differential signal contacts in the transverse direction.
US08388366B2	Pull-out structure for connector A pull-out structure for connector includes a connector and a pull unit. The connector has a locking unit movably arranged thereon and the locking unit includes a retaining section located at a rear end thereof. The pull unit includes an insertion section located at a lower front end thereof, and is engaged with the locking unit by inserting the insertion section into the retaining section of the locking unit. The pull unit and the locking unit have sufficient structural strength. When it is necessary to replace or remove the connector from a shielding cage thereof, a user may directly apply a pulling force on the pull unit to move the locking unit rearward and accordingly easily pull the connector out of the shielding cage without damaging the connector.
US08388365B2	Semiconductor device burn-in test socket Provided is a socket which protects an upper surface of a semiconductor device from being scratched due to contact, by using a latch plate. A socket (10) includes a base member (20), a cover member (30) that reciprocates in a direction to be close to or separated from the base member (20), a plurality of contacts (40), an adaptor (50) that moves in a direction to be close to or separated from the base member and provides a surface for placing a semiconductor package, a latch member (60) that rotationally shifts with reciprocation of the cover member (30), and a latch plate (70) connected to the latch member (60). The latch plate (70) prevents the leading edge of the latch member (60) from being directly brought into contact with a Ball Grid Array (BGA), and presses down the BGA placed on the adaptor (50) in the vertical direction.
US08388364B2	Joint connector and busbar A joint connector has a housing (1) with cavities (3) into which female terminal fittings (2) are insertable, and a busbar (5) to be mounted in the housing (1). The busbar (5) has tabs (6) to be connected to the respective female terminal fittings (2) and adapted to short the female terminal fittings (2) to each other. The busbar (5) includes a base (15) used to mount the busbar (5) into the housing (1) and the tabs (6) are cantilevered from the base (15). The base (15) includes resilient legs (17) for allowing displacements of the tabs (6) in a direction crossing a longitudinal direction of the tabs (6). The tabs (6) can be displaced by displacements of the resilient legs (17) to absorb a misalignment between the tab pieces (6) and the female terminal fittings (2).
US08388360B1	Spark plug wire A spark plug wire having a first terminal and a second terminal wherein the first terminal is configured to operably couple to a distributor of a combustion engine and the second terminal operably couples to a spark plug. The second terminal further includes a housing that is generally cylindrical in shape having an upper groove and a lower groove. A first lateral ring is surroundably mounted to the housing within the upper groove. A second lateral ring is surroundably mounted to the housing within the lower groove. A first grip member and a second grip member being elongated in shape having a first end and a second end are integrally connected to the first lateral ring and the second lateral ring. The first grip member and second grip member are mounted such that they are diametrically opposed on the housing.
US08388359B1	Ignition terminal apparatus and method for forming a temperature-resistant insulating housing An ignition terminal built for connection to a spark plug or igniter includes an insulating housing composed of polyphenylene sulfide extending outward from conductive structures within the ignition terminal. The ignition terminal may be an extender that is used to move a point of connection of an ignition cable to the spark plug or igniter outward, so that such a connection can be easily made, or the ignition terminal may be at an end of the ignition cable itself that is directly connected to the spark plug or igniter.
US08388357B2	Apparatus for testing electronic devices An apparatus is described for burn-in and/or functional testing of microelectronic circuits of unsingulated wafers. A large number of power, ground, and signal connections can be made to a large number of contacts on a wafer. The apparatus has a cartridge that allows for fanning-in of electric paths. A distribution board has a plurality of interfaces that are strategically positioned to provide a dense configuration. The interfaces are connected through flexible attachments to an array of first connector modules. Each one of the first connector modules can be independently connected to a respective one of a plurality of second connector modules, thereby reducing stresses on a frame of the apparatus. Further features include for example a piston that allows for tight control of forces exerted by terminals onto contacts of a wafer.
US08388349B2	Anastomosis deployment force training tool An anastomosis training device and related methods of use that provides medical professionals with real-time feedback of pulling force. The anastomosis training device can include a housing portion, a spring member, a proximal catheter portion and a distal catheter portion. The housing portion can include an external tubing member that slidingly retains an internal tubing element and the spring member. A proximal wire assembly attaches the spring member to a manipulation assembly and a distal wire assembly attaches the spring member to a retention member that allows the anastomosis training tool to be anchored to a suitable surface. As a user applies a pulling force to the manipulation assembly, the internal tubing member is slidably withdrawn from the external tubing member to expose a visible force scale that indicates the level of pulling force being applied by the user.
US08388347B2	Systems and methods for simulating effects of age-related cognitive or physical decline Certain aspects and embodiments of the present invention provide a system for allowing a user to experience a simulation of an age-related medical condition. The system can include eyewear, footwear, handwear, and an audio recording. The eyewear can include two colored lenses. Each lens includes a marking that can at least partially bock central vision of the user and a lens sideguard that can at least partially block peripheral vision of the user. The footwear includes a surface that can be located adjacent to a sole of the user. The surface includes protrusions that can at least indirectly contact the sole. The handwear can impair physical sensory of the user. The audio recording is stored on a medium and includes voiced instructions and static for a first pre-set time and static for a second pre-set time. The voiced instruction identifies home-based tasks for the user to perform during the second pre-set time while wearing the eyewear, footwear, and handwear.
US08388346B2	Tactile feedback For providing a tactile feedback to a user of a device, textual or graphical information is converted into instructions for a sequence of pulses representing the information. An actuator is then caused to move at least a part of a display according to the obtained instructions.
US08388343B2	Implants, tools, and methods for sinus lift and bone augmentation A minimally-invasive sinus lift implant and implantation methods are disclosed. An implant apparatus may included an anchor having a distal implant end and an opposite proximal end. The implant apparatus may further include a channel extending though a portion of the anchor and having an outlet opening in the distal implant end. The channel may also include an inlet opening on a side of the anchor between the distal implant end and the proximal end. Further, the inlet opening, the channel, and the outlet opening may be configured to convey fluid therethrough and the implant is configured for implantation in a bone such that when fully implanted, the side inlet opening is buried in the bone.
US08388340B2	Apical position locator A method and system are disclosed for detecting an apical position depending on the change in the impedance between a first electrode inserted into the root canal of the tooth of a patient and a second external electrode applied to a body surface of the patient. According to some embodiments, a regulated current such as an alternating current having a substantially constant amplitude is supplied between the two electrodes, and this current serves as a measurement signal. Alternatively or additionally, the frequency of the time varying (e.g. alternating) current is at least 50 KHZ, and/or at most about 300 KHZ. In some embodiments, the presently disclosed device includes a processing unit which determines a capacitance-governed function when the first electrode is in the apical region, and which determined a function at least moderately governed by resistance when the electrode is in the dental neck region. Optionally, the first electrode inserted into the root canal is a dental file or reamer.
US08388336B2	Device for producing a structure The invention relates to a method and a device for producing a structure made up of at least two bodies in a cavity of a mold defining the structure.
US08388334B2	Device for curling up dough slices The present invention relates to a method and device for curling up dough slices, comprising a conveyor for the dough slices, a gripping element, arranged above the conveyor, for curling up a dough slice conveyed under the gripping element by the conveyor, pressure means, for pressing curled up dough slices on the conveyor, wherein the distance along which the gripping element grips dough slices is adjustable in the direction of conveyance.
US08388332B2	Mold, device and method for producing molded skins and molded bodies made of plastic The present invention refers to a mold for the production of molded skins 7 and molded bodies 7 from plastic, wherein the mold is configured as a double-walled hollow body comprising a shaped front wall 1 as well as a rear wall 2, in which hollow chambers are formed. With this arrangement, it is possible to save energy and also not inconsiderable amounts of material when applying a slush-or rotation method for the production of molded skins 7 and molded bodies 7 especially those for use in interior paneling and dash boards of motor vehicles.
US08388330B2	In-mould coating device An in-mold coating device comprises a fixed insert, a light generator, a camera, a light sensor, a bolster, a moving insert, the fixed insert is disposed in a fixed plate, the light generator, camera and light sensor are disposed in the fixed insert and equipped with on-off and control wires, the bolster is attached to a bottom of the fixed insert to fix the fixed insert, the camera and light sensor; the fixed inserted is made of transparent material selected from the group consisting of quartz, glass, crystal and coated with a reflective layer on an outer surface thereof, light generated from the light generator is reflected by the reflective layer, photo-curing coating materials are injected into a clearance between the fixed insert and the moving insert and irradiated by the light directly generated from the light generator and multidirectional light reflected by the reflective layer.
US08388329B2	Apparatus for making a fibrous article The present invention generally relates to an apparatus for a making a formed fibrous article and more specifically to an apparatus for making a formed fibrous article useful as an absorbent core structure in a disposable sanitary article such as a sanitary napkin, panty liner, diaper or the like.
US08388327B2	Progressing cavity pump with several pump sections A progressing cavity pump comprises at least an inner pump rotor enclosed by at least an outer pump rotor so as to collectively form one or more, in principle, separate pump cavities which, according to known geometric principles, will be moved axially through the pump upon bringing the rotors into coordinated rotation. At least two pump sections are disposed therein, each of which comprises one outer pump rotor and one adapted inner pump rotor. The outer pump rotors of all pump sections are fixedly supported and arranged along the same axis, wherein all the inner rotors are supported in fixed positions relative to a pump casing of the pump. The outer rotors of all pump sections are driven by the same motor via at least one differential arranged to allow each pump section to rotate at a mutually different rotational speed.
US08388326B2	Piston pump assembly having a cylinder member with strain-absorbing portions A piston pump assembly includes a first pump having a first cylinder member inserted in a piston hole of a pump housing, and a first piston inserted in the first cylinder member, and a second pump having a second cylinder member inserted in the piston hole, and an annular second piston slidably fitted in an annular groove formed in the outer periphery of the first piston, and also axially slidably inserted in the second cylinder member. The first cylinder member axially presses the second cylinder member, thereby preventing the second cylinder member from being dropped out of the piston hole. The second cylinder member has an annular seal surface in contact with a shoulder surface formed on the inner periphery of the piston hole. Strain-absorbing protrusions are formed on the end of the second cylinder member in abutment with the first cylinder member. The protrusions are compressed when they are pressed by the first cylinder member.
US08388322B2	Electronic fuel pump A fuel pump for deployment in a fuel system for an internal combustion engine comprises a 3-phase brushless direct current motor, a sling vane impeller with blade-shaped sling vanes, sensorless electronic motor drive and an electronic controller. The controller is adapted to receive analog or pulse-width modulation inputs to control pump speed.
US08388315B2	Method for operating a wind turbine with reduced blade fouling A method of operating a wind turbine having at least one rotor blade and an active flow control (AFC) system is provided. The at least one rotor blade has at least one aperture defined through a surface thereof, and the AFC system is configured to modify aerodynamic properties of the rotor blade by ejecting gas through the aperture. The method includes operating the wind turbine in a normal mode, determining whether an estimated insect density value surrounding the wind turbine is above an insect density threshold value based on a measured environmental condition, and changing a mode of the wind turbine from the normal mode to a cleaning mode different than the normal mode based on the estimated insect density value. The cleaning mode includes adjusting at least one operation parameter of the wind turbine based on the estimated insect density value such that fouling of the aperture is reduced.
US08388310B1	Turbine disc sealing assembly A disc seal assembly for use in a turbine engine. The disc seal assembly includes a plurality of outwardly extending sealing flange members that define a plurality of fluid pockets. The sealing flange members define a labyrinth flow path therebetween to limit leakage between a hot gas path and a disc cavity in the turbine engine.
US08388303B2	Gas turbine having a rotor including a turbine rotor, expanded shaft and a compressor rotor A gas turbine having a rotor which includes a turbine rotor, a shaft and a compressor rotor, the turbine rotor having at least one rotor disk and a rotor cone leading from the or a rotor disk to the shaft, the downstream end of the shaft being rotatably supported in a bearing having a bearing chamber, the interior space of the shaft being designed as a flow channel for bearing-chamber sealing air, and the space surrounding the rotor cone upstream of the same being designed as a flow space for cooling air is disclosed. In the region of the rotor connection, the shaft exhibits an expanded portion, at whose upstream end, openings are provided to allow cooling air to enter, and, at whose downstream end, openings are provided to allow cooling air to exit into the space between the bearing chamber and the rotor cone, a wall separating the streams of the cooling air and of the sealing air in the shaft interior from one another.
US08388298B2	Apparatus for automatically correcting a positional deviation of a load A load positioning apparatus includes a movable table that is urged and held at a forward limit position by a movable-table urging element, a load-supporting roller that allows the load to laterally move on a horizontal surface, and a load-positioning roller that is supported on the movable table and adjoins the side face of the load supported in the fixed position on the load supporting roller. The urging element allows the table to recede together with the load-positioning roller when a load is vertically lowered at a position where the load-positioning roller is pushed outwardly with respect to the fixed position. The urging element has an urging force sufficient to return the movable table to the forward limit position so as to push back the load to the fixed position via the load positioning roller.
US08388292B2	Self expanding fastener In one embodiment a method to join a first structure to a second structure, comprises aligning a first hole in the first structure with a second hole in the second structure and inserting a fastener into the first hole and the second hole. The fastener comprises a shape memory alloy which was formed into a first shape having a diameter slightly larger than a diameter of the first hole and the second hole when the shape memory alloy was in an austenite state and reduced to a second shape having a diameter less than the diameter of the first hole and the second hole when the shape memory alloy was in a martensite state. The method further comprises heating the fastener above an austenite start transition temperature, such that the fastener initiates free expansion from the second shape back to the first shape and establishes physical contact with the surface of the first hole and the second hole and continuing to heat the fastener such that first structure and the second structure proximate the holes and the fastener undergo plastic deformation.
US08388288B2	Captive screw A captive screw formed of a lock screw, a cap-shaped knob, a spring member and a mounting barrel and mountable in a mounting through hole of a first panel frame and fastenable to a mounting screw hole of a second panel frame to detachably secure the second panel frame to the first panel frame is disclosed. The lock screw has a top protrusion raised from the top wall of the head thereof and a tool groove formed in the top protrusion. The cap-shaped knob is molded on the head of the lock screw by insert molding and defining an endless isolation groove on the top wall of the head of the lock screw around the periphery of the top protrusion that facilitates attachment of a hand tool to the top protrusion of the lock screw for enabling the lock screw to be driven by the user with the hand tool into the mounting screw hole of the second panel frame conveniently with less effort.
US08388286B2	Tie-down eye A tie-down eye for a cargo space of a motor vehicle has an annular loop pivoted on a mount that is formed with a journal part wrapped around a portion of the loop, and the mount and the loop are secured in a frame element fixed in a floor of the cargo space. The loop, which serves for attachment of securing straps, retaining ropes, retaining nets, or similar load-securing elements on or against the cargo surface can pivot between a nonuse position recessed in the frame element and use position projecting upward therefrom. The mount is formed with a cutout in its journal part wrapped around the loop, and a projection extending radially from the loop extends through this cutout and bears against an inner peripheral edge of the cutout when in the use position.
US08388284B2	Bunk of load space The invention relates to a bunk of a load space which bunk (12) includes a frame component (15), a support component (14) articulated to at least one end of the frame component (15), and two bunk arms (16, 17). At least one bunk arm (17) is composed of two or more plates (18, 19, 20) wherein one of the plates (18) is profiled to a curved form (10) on the transverse plane at the position of the load space and the other plate (20) is made parallel to the curved surface of the bunk arm (17) for widening the surface area of the bunk arm (17).
US08388283B2	Chip catcher for weld tip dresser An apparatus for collecting weld tip chips created by a weld tip dresser is provided that “catches” the chips at the cutting tool and collects them in a container, preventing their disbursement on the factory floor. The apparatus includes a body adapted for connection to the weld tip dresser and with an opening therethrough configured to permit the weld tip dresser therethrough. The body defines an air inlet passage extending from an outer surface of the body to the opening. The body defines an air outlet passage from the opening to the outer surface. A pressurized air supply is connected to the body at the air inlet passage and is configured to blow air through the air inlet passage to blow chips from the opening through the air outlet passage. A container is operatively connected to the body at the air outlet passage for collecting chips blown from the opening.
US08388281B2	Method for producing bevel gears having hypocycloidai teeth in the continuous indexing method using a corresponding face cutter head A face milling cutter method for manufacturing various hypocycloidal bevel gears that is characterized in that the following steps are performed to manufacture a first bevel gear: equipping a universal face milling cutter in a first configuration with a first number of cutter groups that corresponds to a first number of passes. A first bevel gear is then produced in the continuous partial method using the universal face milling cutter in the first configuration. The following steps are performed to manufacture a second bevel gear: equipping the same universal face milling cutter in a second configuration with a second number of cutter groups that corresponds to a second number of passes. The second bevel gear is then produced in the continuous partial method using the universal face milling cutter in the second configuration.
US08388279B2	Drilling tool There is provided a drilling tool having a substantially columnar tool body to be rotated around an axial line, a cutting edge located at a front end portion of the tool body, and a chip suction hole which is formed inside the tool body in a direction of the axial line for sucking chips generated by the cutting edge. The chip suction hole has a main hole portion extending toward a drill base along the axial line, a narrow hole portion located at a front end of the main hole portion, the narrow hole portion having a cross section smaller than that of the main hole portion and a suction opening located at a front end of the narrow hole portion and opened in the vicinity of the cutting edge, the suction opening having a cross section larger than that of the narrow hole portion.
US08388277B2	Internal chamfering device and method A method of forming an opening in a layered structure includes providing a layered structure including a first layer and a second layer and a near-zero gap interface defined between the first layer and the second layer; providing an opening through the layered structure such that the opening extends through the first layer and the second layer; and working simultaneously the opening in the fay surface of the first layer and the opening in the fay surface of the second layer without separating the first layer and the second layer. An internal chamfering device is also disclosed.
US08388272B2	High speed milling cutter with tapered pin A milling cutter includes a shank and upper portion with an insert pocket. The insert pocket includes a bottom surface, a radial support wall and an axial support wall. A cutting insert includes a hole extending from a bottom surface. A tapered pin includes a lower portion and a tapered upper portion. A spring engages the lower portion of the tapered pin and provides an upward biasing force on the tapered pin. A center axis of the tapered pin is closer to the radial support wall than a center axis of the hole of the cutting insert such that the tapered pin exerts pressure against the hole of the cutting insert to cause one of the side walls of the cutting insert to be forced against the radial support wall of the insert pocket when the cutting insert is mounted in the insert pocket.
US08388270B2	Slotting cutter with cantilevered member A slotting cutter includes a disc-like cutter body rotatable in a predetermined direction on a central axis perpendicular to a plane of the cutter body. A plurality of cutting insert receiving pockets and a corresponding number of wedge receiving pockets are formed about a perimeter of the body. A cutting insert is replaceably mounted in each insert receiving pocket of the cutter body, and a clamping wedge is replaceably mounted in each wedge receiving pocket of the cutter body. A cantilevered member is disposed between each insert receiving pocket and a respective wedge receiving pocket to securely hold the cutting insert in the cutter body.
US08388267B2	Ballasted driven pile A driven pile anchor suitable for securing a tendon of a tension leg platform to the seafloor is supplemented with added weight. A load frame is added to the individual pile to accommodate ballast weights. Pre-manufactured ballast weights are placed on the frame to increase the holding power of the pile anchor system. In a second embodiment, the pile is intentionally plugged and installed with the plug intact. Pre-manufactured ballast weights are then placed inside the pile and may be held in place by gravity. In a third embodiment, the pile is a conventional driven friction pile installed with an underwater pile hammer. The pile is initially open but subsequently evacuated and intentionally plugged near its pile tip. Pre-manufactured ballast weights are placed inside the pile to increase its holding capacity. The first embodiment may be retrofitted to existing, driven-pile anchor systems.
US08388262B2	Operator workplace of a construction machine The invention relates to an operator workplace of a construction machine, especially a milling machine for processing a road surface, comprising a seat with a seating surface, an armrest arranged to the side of the seating surface and comprising an arm supporting surface, and at least one control element arranged on the armrest for controlling at least one machine function. The invention further relates to a construction machine with such an operator workplace.
US08388255B2	Dog-type lockout and position indicator assembly A connector assembly for connecting two members that allows manual lockdown to prevent accidental disengagement. The connector assembly can be used to connect a tension ring to a housing on a riser by using a lower set of hydraulically actuated dogs. A set of upper hydraulically actuated dogs on the connector assembly can be used to connect the tension ring to a diverter housing mounted on a rig. The connector assembly also has position indicators that ride along with the dogs to indicate whether the dogs are in the engaged or disengaged position.
US08388253B2	Linkage coupling apparatus An apparatus for adjustably coupling a threaded linkage rod to an arm of a fuel valve, air valve, air damper, damper blade assembly, or actuator that can include a sleeve, a collar, and a lock restraining axial movement of the collar with respect to the sleeve. The sleeve may include an inside threaded wall defining a sleeve bore axially receiving the linkage rod. The collar may include (i) a collar body having a collar bore axially receiving the sleeve and (ii) an about radial extension for engagement with the arm of the fuel valve, air damper, or actuator. Rotation of the sleeve causes axial movement of the sleeve, and thus the collar locked thereto, along the linkage rod. Fine position adjustments can be made to the position of the radial extension, and thus the arm of the fuel valve, air damper, or actuator engaged thereto, with respect to the linkage rod.
US08388250B2	Toothpaste dispensing toothbrush with mouthwash strip roll compartment A toothbrush combined with a toothpaste dispenser with a wall mounted holder. The present invention comprises of a twist knob that is able to push a piston up a toothpaste compartment. The piston creates pressure inside the toothpaste compartment and causes the toothpaste to travel up a main channel. The main channel branches into a plurality of smaller tubes. Each tube has a respective rubber tube dispenser that protrudes and extends from the brush head. The rubber tube dispensers allow the toothpaste to be dispensed on top of the bristles. The toothbrush additionally comprises of a mouthwash strip roll dispensing mechanism positioned in the knob. The present invention additionally comprises of audio and visual indicators to provide users with visual or hearing impairments with a signal notification of toothpaste depletion.
US08388247B2	Image forming device having mechanism for detecting detection target An image forming device having a detection assembly that detects a detection target. The detection assembly includes an actuator having a shaft rotatable about its axis, an abutment portion extending from the shaft and pivotally movable upon abutment of the detection target, and a detected portion pivotally movable about the axis. A detection board is supported to a stationary base component and includes a detection unit for detecting the detected portion. The shaft has one end portion supported to the base component, and another end portion supported to the detection board. Relative positional relationship between the actuator and the detection unit is maintained by the direct supporting manner of the shaft by the detection board.
US08388244B2	Elevation device of monitoring camera An elevation device is provided for a monitoring camera, including a top retaining barrel fixed to the top end of a high suspending post and downward fit onto a retained member. The retained member has a bottom forming the wire box. A retained cylinder has an outer circumference forming spaced locking blocks. The top retaining barrel comprises a locking tube receiving therein a toothed crown locking collar that comprises oppositely set first and second toothed crowns between when the locking blocks are movable to alternately carry out locking and unlocking operation. The locking tube forms a guide block corresponding to an inclined circumferential surface of a cam, whereby when the retained cylinder is driven upward in any orientation to fit into the locking tube, the inclined circumferential surface is guided by the guide block to correct orientation of the retained cylinder with respect to retained cylinder.
US08388242B2	In-line splice with integrated splice holder A fiber optic cable assembly includes a connector and a fiber optic cable. The connector includes a housing having a first axial end and an oppositely disposed second axial end. A ferrule is disposed in the housing. A plurality of optical fibers is mounted in the ferrule. The fiber optic cable includes an outer jacket defining a fiber passage that extends longitudinally through the outer jacket and a window that extends through the outer jacket and the fiber passage. First and second strength members are oppositely disposed about the fiber passage in the outer jacket. A plurality of optical fibers is disposed in the fiber passage. The optical fibers are joined at splices to the optical fibers of the connector. A splice sleeve is disposed over the splices. The splice sleeve is disposed in the window of the outer jacket.
US08388240B2	Receptacle attached with optical isolator and method thereof Provided are a receptacle attached with an optical isolator and a manufacturing method thereof, capable of easily performing position alignment among an end surface of a magnet, an end surface of a fiber stub, and a polarization plane of a polarizer and dimension calculating of the optical isolator without an increase in the number of parts. The optical isolator is constructed by fitting a fiber stub into which an optical fiber is inserted and of which end surface is formed to be slanted with a predetermined angle into a ferrule holder, by forming an end surface of the magnet to be slanted with the same angle as the predetermined angle, and by fixing the optical isolator element to the magnet. The receptacle attached with an optical isolator is constructed by integrally fixing the optical isolator to the end surface of the fiber stub by fitting the optical isolator into an inner diameter portion of the ferrule holder.
US08388237B2	Optical connector and method of assembling optical connector An optical connector that is assembled at the terminal of an optical fiber cable that integrates an optical fiber and a tension-resisting member extending in the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber, the optical connector including: a connector body having a stationary portion at the rear end thereof, the stationary portion having a threaded portion formed on the outer periphery surface, and a fixing cap that is screwed onto the threaded portion of the stationary portion, wherein the fixing cap fixes the tension-resisting member that has been drawn out from the optical fiber cable terminal by sandwiching the tension-resisting member between the fixing cap and the connector body when the fixing cap is screwed onto the stationary portion.
US08388235B1	Modular, optical, wet-mate connector A modular and scalable high optical fiber count connector assembly (800) is formed by engagement mating of a plug connector (500) to a receptacle connector (700). The plug connector (500) includes a plug shell unit (200) and a pin subassembly unit (400), which includes a plurality of small form factor engagement mate pin connectors (100). The plug connector (500) is formed by inserting the pin subassembly unit (400) into the plug shell unit's (200) hollow body (230). The receptacle connector (700) includes a receptacle shell unit (300) and a socket subassembly unit (600), which includes a plurality of small form factor engagement mate socket connectors (150). The receptacle connector (700) is formed by inserting the socket subassembly unit (600) into the receptacle shell unit (300) hollow body (330).
US08388232B2	Rolling bearing There is provided a rolling bearing which comprises at least: an outer ring 10 and an inner ring 20 disposed rotatable relative to each other; and plurality of rolling elements 40 respectively interposed rollably between the outer and inner rings. The outer ring is fitted into a housing (not shown) and the inner ring is fitted with a shaft (not shown), whereby the rolling bearing supports rotation between the shaft and housing. Between the fitting surface (not shown) of the housing and the outer circumferential surface 13 of the outer ring and/or between the fitting surface of the shaft and the inner circumferential surface 23 of the inner ring, there is interposed an O-ring 30 made of an elastic member having a reduced friction coefficient between the fitting surface of the housing and the outer circumferential surface of the outer ring or between the fitting surface of the shaft and the inner circumferential surface of the inner ring.
US08388226B2	Dynamic bearing device A dynamic bearing device allows production of a smaller housing at low cost and suppresses ion elution from the resin portion to thereby maintain cleanliness in the dynamic bearing device and exert a desired bearing performance. A dynamic bearing device 1 is equipped with a bearing sleeve 8 fixed to the inner periphery of the housing 7, and a rotary member rotatable relative to the bearing sleeve 8 and the housing 7, in which the rotary member is supported in the radial direction and the thrust direction in a non-contact manner by a dynamic pressure action of a lubricant fluid generated in a bearing clearance. The housing 7 is formed by injection molding of a resin composition containing polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) as the base resin and PAN type carbon fibers as a filler.
US08388224B2	Engine turbine temperature measurement An assembly for sensing temperature in a gas turbine engine includes a first array of RTDs connected in parallel, a second array of RTDs connected in parallel, and a circuit electrically connected to the first and second arrays. The circuit determines an approximate temperature of a medium as a function of resistance of the first and second arrays.
US08388223B2	Furnace temperature monitoring device and method A method for measuring the temperature at various locations in a furnace adapted to heat-treat a metal part commences by placing one or more devices at various location within the furnace. Each device is an inorganic/metallic skeletal structure residual from firing a mixture of binder and one or more of inorganic or metallic particles at a temperature that chars the binder to form the inorganic/metallic skeletal structure of a determined shape. A physical parameter of the skeletal structure determined shape is monitored after firing of the furnace. Then, the monitored physical parameter is compared to a plot of temperature versus the physical parameter to determine the temperature of the furnace at the various locations.
US08388222B2	Device for indicating eradication of a pest infestation Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure include devices for monitoring and indicating the completion of eradication of a pest infestation in a space in which heating is utilized for eradication. In an exemplary embodiment, a device includes a sensor configured to sense temperature proximate the device, and a visual indicator configured to provide indication of status. The device further includes a processor that is connected to the sensor and visual indicator. The processor is configured to determine whether the sensed temperature exceeds the MINIMUM LETHAL TEMPERATURE, and configured to determine occurrence of completion of a minimum heating duration required for eradication in which the sensed temperature exceeds the MINIMUM LETHAL TEMPERATURE. The processor is further configured to activate the visual indicator subsequent to completion of the minimum heating duration, to thereby provide visible indication that the minimum heating duration for eradication of a pest infestation has elapsed.
US08388219B2	Method for calibrating a pyrometer, method for determining the temperature of a semiconducting wafer and system for determining the temperature of a semiconducting wafer A method for calibrating a pyrometer a temperature of a calibration sample is determined from the ratio of a first reflectance and a second reflectance and the pyrometer is calibrated by assigning the determined temperature of the calibration sample with a thermal radiation signal measured by the pyrometer.
US08388214B1	Lighted railing and similar structures A decorative lighting system has a light holding assembly, a base section member, and a top section member on the base section member. The light holding assembly has an elongated tubular body having a cavity defined therein, a flange extending from the elongated tubular body, and a plurality of lights within the elongated tubular body. At least a portion of the elongated tubular body is made of a material that allows light to pass through that portion. In addition, at least a portion of the flange is between the base section member and the top section member such that the light holding assembly is held between the base section member and the top section member.
US08388210B2	Walls A glass or plastic wall structure with nested channel members is provided with electroluminescent strips running along the channel flanges to provide an internal illumination. In particular, it relates to illuminated transparent walls or internal partitions of a building or similar fixed construction.
US08388208B2	Method and structure for uniforming light emitted from backlight module A method and a structure for improving the uniformity of light emitted from a backlight module are provided. In accordance with the present invention, a plurality of optical microstructures are intermittently distributed on an LGP of a backlight module. Each of the microstructures further includes a plurality of optical sub-microstructures. The optical microstructures and the optical sub-microstructures are distributed on the LGP with varied distribution intensities in three dimensions, such that at where the optical microstructures and the optical sub-microstructures are distributed with a larger distribution intensities the LGP refracts and reflects more light, and at where the optical microstructures and the optical sub-microstructures are distributed with a smaller distribution intensities the LGP refracts and reflects less light. In such a way, by designing particular distribution intensities of the optical microstructures and the optical sub-microstructures, the light emitted from the LGP can be uniformed.
US08388198B2	Device and apparatus for efficient collection and re-direction of emitted radiation An apparatus is described, including a light source, a lens and two reflectors. A first reflector is positioned to reflect a first portion of light from the light source, wherein the first portion of light is radiated from the light source in a central forward solid angle as defined by an outer edge of the first reflector. The lens is azimuthally horizontal to the light source for accepting a second portion of light from the light source emitted in a peripheral forward solid angle. A second reflector reflects the first portion of light after reflectance from the first reflector and the second portion of light after passing through the lens in a composite beam, wherein the first reflector and the lens are configured such that the first and second portions of light behave as though they were emitted from a point source at the second reflector focus.
US08388195B2	Illumination device with heat dissipation structures An exemplary illumination device includes an enclosure, a semiconductor light source accommodated in the enclosure, and an envelope engaged with the enclosure and covering the semiconductor light source. Light generated by the semiconductor light source can project through the envelope and out of the illumination device. The semiconductor light source includes a plurality of light source modules independent from each other. A plurality of air passages are defined in each light source module for air passing therethrough to dissipate heat generated by the semiconductor light source into ambient air.
US08388194B2	Chamber for laser apparatus with extruded base frame A laser apparatus includes a base frame extruded in one single piece of light alloy metal which determines a chamber intended to receive the laser generator cavity, incorporated within the chamber. The plane of the lower base of the chamber coincides with the base plane of the extruded base, and the lateral faces of the chamber are directed towards opposed lateral faces of partition walls of the extruded base, with controlled clearance to permit the expansion of the laser generator cavity without mechanical stresses being produced on same, capable of deforming it.
US08388193B2	Lens with TIR for off-axial light distribution A lens for directing light from a light emitter in a preferential-side off-axial direction with respect to the emitter axis. The lens includes an emitter-adjacent base end forming an opening, an inner surface extending from the base end and forming a void, an output-end surface configured to direct light toward the preferential side, and an outer lateral surface configured for TIR to direct light toward the output-end surface, whereby substantially all light from the emitter exits the output-surface predominantly toward the preferential side. Another aspect of this invention is a recessed lighting fixture utilizing the inventive lens.
US08388190B2	Illumination system and method for recycling light to increase the brightness of the light source An illumination system for increasing the brightness of a light source comprises an optical recycling device coupled to the light source, preferably light emitting diode (LED), for spatially and/or angularly recycling light. The optical recycling device spatially recycles a portion of rays of light emitted by the LED back to the light source using a reflector or mirror and/or angularly recycles high angle rays of light and transmits small angle rays of light, thereby increasing the brightness of the light source's output.
US08388185B2	Image display device An image display device comprises a light-emitting unit (1), an optical fiber (2) which transmits light emitted from the light-emitting unit, and a plurality of spheres (3) disposed so as to be coupled to the optical fiber (2) by evanescent coupling and having optical transparency. Each of the spheres (3) produces an optical mode in which light entering each sphere from the optical fiber (2) by the evanescent coupling is confined inside, and are so formed that predetermined resonant frequencies of the spheres for producing the optical mode are different from one another, so that an image is displayed by the light emitted from the spheres (3). This provides a simply structured image display device having a high response speed and capable of achieving power saving, a high luminance, a wide view angle, and a high contrast.
US08388180B2	Variable shaped lamp shade of LED lamp In a variable shaped lamp shade of an LED lamp, the lamp shade is made of a translucent material matched with an LED lamp strip and a lamp holder and includes at least one strip-shaped optical refraction unit having an external refractive surface, an internal refractive surface corresponding to the external refractive surface, and an assembling structure for matching the lamp holder. The external refractive surface or internal refractive surface is a curved surface without an inflection point and the curved surface has a constant or gradually changing curvature; and a non-curved surface is formed on the other side. The variable shaped lamp overcomes the problems of conventional LED lamp strips having a low illumination and a non-uniform illumination caused by a direct projection or an installation of a conventional lamp shade, and a low light utility caused by a too-large illumination range.
US08388179B2	Lighting systems The invention disclosed relates to a light housing adapted to retain a light source. The light housing has a first reflector and a second reflector mounted to rotate concentrically about a main axis. A transmission system is present between the first and second reflector. Rotation of the first reflector in a first direction about the main axis rotates the second reflectors via the transmission system at the same angular velocity as the first reflector about the main axis to retain the same relative angular position between the first and second reflectors. Rotation of the first reflector in a second direction of rotation, opposite to the first direction, rotates the second reflector, via the transmission system to vary the relative angular position between the first and second reflector.
US08388176B2	Light source device and display device A light source device and a display device in which wrinkle or warpage of sheet-shaped or film-shaped optical members is prevented or minimized. A light source device (2b) includes sheet-shaped or film-shaped optical members (26a, 26b, 26c) arranged to control properties of light that passes therethrough and a chassis (11b) to which the sheet-shaped or film-shaped optical members (26a, 26b, 26c) are attached, the chassis (11b) includes a plurality of fitting protrusions (hooks) (114a, 114b, 114c) that are vertically movable and are pushed upward by pushing mechanisms in a normal usage state, a plurality of fitting holes (261) each having a through hole shape are disposed adjacent to upper sides of the sheet-shaped or film-shaped optical members (26a, 26b, 26c) in the normal usage state, and the optical members (26a, 26b, 26c) are hung on the fitting protrusions (114a, 114b, 114c) of the chassis (11b) in the fitting holes (261).
US08388175B2	Lighting device A lighting device (100, 200, 300, 400) is disclosed. The device comprises a plurality of light sources (111, 119, 120, 211, 219, 220) providing light in different wavelengths, a collimating means (104, 204) having a receiving end (103, 203, 407) and an output end (114, 214, 409), wherein said light sources are arranged at said receiving end. The collimating means comprises a set of wavelength selective filters (109, 110, 115, 116, 117, 118, 215, 217) arranged as sub-collimators (106, 107, 108, 206, 207, 208) to each of said plurality of light sources such that, for each light source, said sub-collimator collimates the light from its light source, and said wavelength selective filter of said each light source is translucent for light from adjacent light sources of different wavelength, and a second set of wavelength selective filters comprising compensation filters (222, 224, 226, 228, 230, 232) wherein each compensation filter is arranged symmetrically with respect to corresponding part of the wavelength selective filter of said first set around a general light direction of the corresponding light source.
US08388168B1	Solar extendable tray mailbox A mailbox with a slidable tray to withdraw the contents therein and a solar powered illuminable, configurable display to enhance visibility of the dwelling number after nightfall.
US08388166B2	Lighting apparatus with a boost Lighting apparatus and structures are described to space electrical drivers from a light panel. In this way, a driver box housing the driver can be spaced from the light panel to communicate with pre-existing facilities (e.g. electrical wiring) and can serve the additional advantage of keeping the driver box out of standing water that may accumulate on the structure.
US08388163B2	Marine LED lighting system and method A method and apparatus of lighting a marine habitat for growth utilizing an LED light system. The light system includes an LED light source, a power supply for such light source and a controller for controlling the activation status and the intensity of the LED light source.
US08388158B2	Appliance with an improved solid state device lighting An appliance includes a cabinet, a solid state lighting device assembly integrated in the cabinet, and a power controller coupled to the solid state lighting device assembly for supplying electrical power to the solid state lighting device lighting assembly. The power controller is configured to provide a pulse modulated power signal to the solid state lighting device assembly that has a duty cycle. Each solid state lighting device in the solid state lighting device assembly cycles on and off in accordance with duty cycle.
US08388156B2	Backlight apparatus and keyboard A backlight apparatus includes a light-guiding plate, two first light-emitting members and two second light-emitting members. The light-guiding plate has a first edge and a second edge parallel to the first edge. The light-guiding plate has two first recesses and two second recesses. The two first light-emitting members are disposed in the two first recesses respectively, and the two second light-emitting members are disposed in the two second recesses respectively. The two first light-emitting members are rotated at a predetermined angle respectively, such that first light-emitting axes of the two first light-emitting members tend toward the first edge and the second edge of the light-guiding plate respectively. Besides, second light-emitting axes of the two second light-emitting members are parallel to the first edge and the second edge of the light-guiding plate.
US08388154B2	Cube-corner retroreflective article A cube-corner retroreflective article is provided with a number of cube-corner retroreflective element pairs each formed by a pair of cube-corner retroreflective elements sharing one side. Each of the cube-corner retroreflective elements has reflective lateral surfaces including two trapezoidal reflective lateral surfaces and one pentagonal or isosceles-triangular reflective lateral surface, and a projection shape of a quadrangle when projected onto a common plane, wherein ratios (rHA/rHC and rHB/rHC) between a length (rHC) of a ridge (HC) shared by the trapezoidal reflective lateral surfaces (HAFC and HBGC) and lengths (rHA and rHB) of other ridges (HA and HB) are in a range of 0.5 to 1.5.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10