Document Document Title
US08552205B2 Derivatives of 6,7-dihydro-5H-imidazo[1,2-alpha]imidazole-3-carboxylic acid amides
Derivatives of 6,7-dihydro-5H-imidazo[1,2-α]imidazole-3-carboxylic acid amide exhibit good inhibitory effect upon the interaction of CAMs and Leukointegrins and are thus useful in the treatment of inflammatory disease.
US08552202B2 Furo[3, 2-B] pyrrol-3-ones as cathespin S inhibitors
A first aspect of the invention relates to a compound of formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, hydrate, complex or pro-drug thereof, wherein: one of R3 and R4 is H, and the other is selected from C1-6-alkyl, C1-6-haloalkyl, C1-6-alkoxy, and C6-12-aralkyl; or R3 and R4 are each independently selected from C1-6-alkyl and halo; R9 is a substituted 5 or 6-membered aryl or heteroaryl group or a 6,5- or 6,6-fused biaryl or heterobiaryl group. Compounds of formula (I) exhibit surprisingly high efficacies for human cathepsin S, excellent selectivity verses other mammalian cathepsins and are useful for treatment of diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, transplant rejection, diabetes, Sjogrens syndrome, Grave's disease, systemic lupus erythematosis, osteoarthritis, psoriasis, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, allergic rhinitis, asthma, atherosclerosis, obesity, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and chronic pain.
US08552198B2 Benzimidazole compound crystal
A novel crystal of (R)-2-[[[3-methyl-4-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)-2-pyridinyl]methyl]sulfinyl]-1H-benzimidazole or a salt thereof of the present invention is useful for an excellent antiulcer agent.
US08552191B2 Process and intermediates for the synthesis of 8-[{1-(3,5-bis-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-ethoxy}-methyl]-8-phenyl-1,7-diaza-spiro[4.5]decan-2-one compounds
This application discloses a novel process to synthesize 8-[{1-(3,5-Bis-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-ethoxy}-methyl]-8-phenyl-1,7-diaza-spiro[4.5]decan-2-one compounds, which may be used, for example, as NK-1 inhibitor compounds in pharmaceutical preparations.
US08552190B1 Tristhiourea tripodal metal complexes
The tristhiourea tripodal metal complexes are a group of coordination compounds having a transition metal linked by coordinate covalent bods to a chelating agent. The chelating agent has a tris-(6-amino-2-pyridylmethyl)amine (TAPA) backbone and three thiourea ligands bonded to the three legs of the TAPA backbone, respectively. The transition metal bonds to the amino groups of the TAPA backbone, and the thiourea ligands hydrogen bond to the anion guest remote from the transition metal. The chelating agent has a symmetrical C3v tripodal cavity that is selective for tetrahedral anions. The transition metal is selected from the group consisting of cadmium, manganese, cobalt, nickel, copper, and zinc. The tristhiourea tripodal metal complexes may be used in colorimetric sensors, selectively permeable membranes, filtration media for separating tetrahedral anions (such as phosphate and perchlorate) from mixtures, and similar applications.
US08552184B2 Compounds and methods for treating disorders related to glucose metabolism
The present invention relates to compounds and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, and compositions comprising the same, that are useful in modulating lyn kinase activity, treating obesity, type II diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and in reducing blood glucose level, weight gain, or fat depot level, or treating a disease or condition associated with the same.
US08552183B2 Process for the covalent coupling of two molecules by means of a diels-alder reaction with inverse electron requirement
The present invention relates to a process for linking two molecules by means of a Diels Alder reaction with inverse electron requirement (DARinv), comprising the following steps: reaction of a (a) triazine or tetrazine with one or more electron-attracting substituents on the ring as a diene component, the electron-attracting substituents being selected from: COOR C(O)NR2 CX3 (X=halogen) halogen CN SO2—R or SO3—R PR2 wherein R═H, alkyl, aryl, heterocycle, which in turn may be substituted, where appropriate, with alkyl, OH, SH, halogen, aryl, heterocycle, nitro, carboxyamido or amine group. —heterocyclic rings having 1, 2 or 3 N, O or S atoms with a ring size of 5 or 6 ring members, which are substituted with at least one carboxyl, sulfonic acid or phosphone group with (b) an isolated double bond or triple bond in a (hetero)carbocyclic ring or an isolated olefinic double bond or triple bond in a linear or branched hydrocarbon chain which may also contain heteroatoms, where appropriate, as a dienophile component.
US08552179B2 Organic compound, photovoltaic layer and organic photovoltaic device
The present invention relates generally to the field of organic chemistry and particularly to the organic compound for organic photovoltaic devices. More specifically, the present invention is related to the organic compounds and the organic photovoltaic devices based on these compounds. In one preferred embodiment, this organic compound has the general structural formula (I) where Het1 is a predominantly planar polycyclic molecular system of first type; Het2 is a predominantly planar polycyclic molecular system of second type; A is a bridging group providing a lateral bond of the molecular system Het1 with the molecular system Het2 via strong chemical bonds; n is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8; B1 and B2 are binding groups; i is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8; j is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8; S1 and S2 are groups providing solubility of the organic compound; k is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8; m is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8; D1 and D2 are substituents independently selected from a list comprising —CH3, —C2H5, —NO2, —Cl, —Br, —F, —CF3, —CN, —OH, —OCH3, —OC2H5, —OCOCH3, —OCN, —SCN—NH2, —NHCOCH3, —C2Si(CH3)3, and —CONH2; y is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8; and z is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8. Said organic compound absorbs electromagnetic radiation in at least one predetermined spectral subrange within a wavelength range from 400 to 3000 nm and is capable to form supramolecules. The molecular system Het1, the bridging group A, and the molecular system Het2 are capable to form a donor-bridge-acceptor system providing dissociation of excited electron-hole pairs. A solution of the organic compound or its salt is capable of forming a solid photovoltaic layer on a substrate.
US08552177B2 Room temperature stable agarose solutions
A method for making functionalized porous crosslinked polysaccharide gel coated structures used as liquid chromatography media is provided. The method includes impregnating a porous substrate with a room temperature stable aqueous polysaccharide solution containing water, 0.1% to 20% of a polysaccharide, 18% to 54% of a gel-inhibiting agent to prevent the gel from re-gelling, and 0.001% to 10% of an anionic fluorosurfactant for optimum solution coatability onto the substrate, each concentration is by total weight of the aqueous solution. Next water is evaporated from the coating, followed by exposing the dehydrated coating to a gelling agent thereby forming a porous polysaccharide gel coated substrate. Next the gel coated substrate is exposed to a crosslinking agent forming a porous crosslinked polysaccharide gel coated substrate. Next, the gel coated substrate is functionalized by contacting the porous polysaccharide gel coated substrate with sodium 3-bromopropanesulfonate, thereby attaching sulfopropyl ligands to the gel coated substrate, resulting in a functionalized porous absorptive polysaccharide gel coated chromatography structure. When the functionalized gel coated chromatography structure is used as liquid chromatography media, and a protein (e.g. lysozyme) containing solution contacts the media, the sulfopropyl ligands attached to the gel coated chromatography structure will bond to the protein, thereby removing the protein from the protein containg solution.
US08552176B2 Glycosylated chlorambucil analogs and uses thereof
A library of glycosylated chlorambucil analogs which are useful as anti-tumor and/or anti-metastatic agents is disclosed. The glycosylated chlorambucil analogs have the general formula wherein represents a reducing sugar moiety.
US08552171B2 RNA sequence-specific mediators of RNA interference
The present invention relates to a Drosophila in vitro system which was used to demonstrate that dsRNA is processed to RNA segments 21-23 nucleotides (nt) in length. Furthermore, when these 21-23 nt fragments are purified and added back to Drosophila extracts, they mediate RNA interference in the absence of long dsRNA. Thus, these 21-23 nt fragments are the sequence-specific mediators of RNA degradation. A molecular signal, which may be their specific length, must be present in these 21-23 nt fragments to recruit cellular factors involved in RNAi. This present invention encompasses these 21-23 nt fragments and their use for specifically inactivating gene function. The use of these fragments (or chemically synthesized oligonucleotides of the same or similar nature) enables the targeting of specific mRNAs for degradation in mammalian cells, where the use of long dsRNAs to elicit RNAi is usually not practical, presumably because of the deleterious effects of the interferon response. This specific targeting of a particular gene function is useful in functional genomic and therapeutic applications.
US08552165B2 Immunostimulatory oligonucleotides
The invention relates to immunostimulatory oligonucleotides and methods of using immunostimulatory oligonucleotides to induce an antigen-specific immune response. The invention further relates to a vaccine that comprises an immunostimulatory oligonucleotide and an antigen, and comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The immunostimulatory oligonucleotides of the invention, in some embodiments, include one or more modified linkage(s).
US08552163B2 Liver-targeting agents and their synthesis
This invention provides novel liver targeting agents and their synthetic methods. A liver targeting agent, with a lysine based nitrilotriacetic acid structure as backbone which acquires multivalency with saccharide groups, to bind with a galactosamine chain or lactose chain is disclosed. In particular, only one amino acid L-lysine is involved to provide trivalency. All carboxyl groups in Nε-benzyloxycarbonyl-Nα-dicarboxymethyl-L-lysine can be conjugated with three glycosides of ahGalNAc or ahLac in one step. This invention also provides a hexa-lactoside. In particular, the TFA-AHA-Asp was used to conjugate 2 molecules of NTA(ahLac)3. This invention also provides a method for adding a spacer between NTA and DTPA. The extended hepatocyte-specific glyco-ligand has higher 111In-radiolabelling yield than those non-extended.
US08552160B2 Selective extraction of proteins from freshwater or saltwater algae
Methods for selective extraction and fractionation of algal proteins from an algal biomass or algal culture are disclosed. A method of selective removal of products from an algal biomass provides for single and multistep extraction processes which allow for efficient separation of algal proteins. These proteins can be used as renewable sources of proteins for animal feedstocks and human food. Further, lipids remaining in the algal biomass after extraction of proteins can be used to generate renewable fuels.
US08552158B2 Method for the production of insulin-like growth factor-1
Method for the production of IGF-I, characterized by cultivating a prokaryotic host cell comprising an expression vector containing a nucleic acid encoding a fusion protein comprising said IGF-I N-terminally linked to the C-terminus of a propeptide, whereby said propeptide ends C-terminally with amino acids -Y-Pro, wherein Y is selected from the group consisting of Pro, Pro-Ala, Pro-Gly, Pro-Thr, Ala-Pro, Gly-Pro, Thr-Pro, Arg-Pro, or Pro-Arg-Pro, recovering and cleaving said fusion protein with IgA protease, and recovering said IGF-I. IGF-I is useful for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's Disease.
US08552157B2 c-Kit antibodies and uses thereof
This invention is directed to antibodies that specifically bind to an extracellular domain of human c-Kit, pharmaceutical compositions comprising these antibodies, and their use in treating cancer.
US08552155B2 Anti-Pyk2 antibodies
This document provides methods and materials related to anti-Pyk2 antibodies. For example, anti-Pyk2 antibodies, methods for making anti-Pyk2 antibodies, and methods for using an anti-Pyk2 antibody to inhibit glioma cell migration are provided.
US08552154B2 Anti-PD-L1 antibodies and uses therefor
The present invention is based, in part, on the identification of novel human anti-PD-1, PD-L1, and PD-L2 antibodies. Accordingly, the invention relates to compositions and methods for diagnosing, prognosing, and treating conditions that would benefit from modulating PD-1, PD-L1, and/or PD-L2 activity (e.g., persistent infectious diseases, autoimmune diseases, asthma, transplant rejection, inflammatory disorders and tumors) using the novel human anti-PD-1, PD-L1, and PD-L2 antibodies described herein.
US08552148B2 TNF-α antagonists containing IGFBP5
The present invention relates to: TNF-α antagonists containing IGFBP5 protein, variants thereof, or fragments thereof; and the use of the TNF-α antagonists. More specifically, the present invention relates to: a polynucleotide encoding the protein, variants thereof, or fragments thereof; a vector containing the polynucleotide; a transformant containing the vector; and a method for screening a therapeutic agent for TNF-α overexpression-related diseases by checking whether the mutual reaction thereof is facilitated after treating with candidates to the cell expressing the IGFBP5 protein, variants thereof, or fragments thereof, and the TNFR1.
US08552147B2 Peptides and compositions for prevention of cell adhesion and methods of using same
Compositions comprising an isolated peptide, which may for example optionally comprise a sequence selected from the group consisting of FDYDWY (SEQ ID NO: 2), SFSQNKSVHSFDYDWYNVSDQADLKN (SEQ ID NO: 3) or CSFSQNKSVHSFDYDWYNVSDQADLKNC (SEQ ID NO: 1), or any cyclized version thereof, and methods of using same, including for treatment of or prevention of formation of microbial biofilms and against adhesion of a cell to a surface.
US08552144B2 Block copolymer with simultaneous electric and ionic conduction for use in lithium ion batteries
Redox reactions that occur at the electrodes of batteries require transport of both ions and electrons to the active centers. Reported is the synthesis of a block copolymer that exhibits simultaneous electronic and ionic conduction. A combination of Grignard metathesis polymerization and click reaction was used successively to synthesize the block copolymer containing regioregular poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) segments. The P3HT-PEO/LiTFSI mixture was then used to make a lithium battery cathode with LiFePO4 as the only other component. All-solid lithium batteries of the cathode described above, a solid electrolyte and a lithium foil as the anode showed capacities within experimental error of the theoretical capacity of the battery. The ability of P3HT-PEO to serve all of the transport and binding functions required in a lithium battery electrode is thus demonstrated.
US08552143B2 Method for the preparation of poly (disulfide) polymers and gels
High molecular weight disulfide polymers are synthesized in aqueous media by exposing dithiol compounds to a mild oxidizing environment in the presence of a tertiary amine catalyst. The unique oxidizing system polymerizes monomers through the formation of sulfur-sulfur bonds between dithiol compounds. The same oxidizing system may be used to make disulfide-crosslinked gels from compounds containing multiple thiol groups. The oxidizing system is comprised of oxygen at atmospheric concentration and dilute hydrogen peroxide. A filler such as carbon black may be incorporated into the polymer or cross-linked gel during polymerization. A polydisulfide polymer is provided having a weight average molecular weight of greater than about 100,000 g/mol and a polydispersity index of about 2 or less. A tetrathiol composition results from a reaction of a diacrylate with a trithiol. The tetrathiol composition may be subjected to an oxidizing environment with a tertiary amine catalyst to provide a polytetrathiol polymer network.
US08552138B2 Polyester resin, production process therefor and use thereof
Polyester resins (C) of the invention have a practically sufficient high molecular weight and a high crystallinity and have an amide group in the molecular chain. Processes for producing the polyester resins are also disclosed. In detail, the polyester resins (C) have a practically sufficient high molecular weight and a high crystallinity and have a biodegradable amide group in the molecular chain. Processes for producing the polyester resins are also disclosed.The polyester resins (C) are obtained by reacting an aliphatic polyester resin (A) and a polyisocyanate compound (B) in the presence of an amidation catalyst and contain a specific structural unit.
US08552137B2 Composition comprising silyl derivative as dehydrating agent
Disclosed is a compositions comprising isocyanate sub-composition comprising by weight not more than 5% of diisocyanate monomers, a dehydrating agent selected among compounds bearing dihydrocarbylsilyl groups bonded to a metalloid of the chalcogen column or to an atom of the nitrogen column. The invention is applicable to the coatings industry, in particular paints and adhesives.
US08552132B2 Rheology modifiers for modifying the rheological behaviour of coating compositions
The present invention provides rheology modifiers, which are water-soluble polymers having a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of at least 1,000,000 g/mol and an intrinsic viscosity of at least 2.5 dl/g, both as determined by size exclusion chromatography, and wherein the water-soluble polymers are in the form of solid particles. It also provides mixtures of rheology modifiers comprising a first rheology modifier, which is a water-soluble polymer having a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of at least 1,000,000 g/mol and an intrinsic viscosity of at least 2.5 dl/g, both as determined by size exclusion chromatography, and a second rheology modifier, which has a weight average molecular weight of from 2,000 g/mol to 800,000 g/mol. It also provides coating composition containing the rheology modifiers, respectively, mixtures of rheology modifiers, a process for their preparation, a process for coating a substrate using these coating compositions and substrates coated with these coating compositions.
US08552126B2 Aqueous polymer dispersions, processes for preparing them, and their use
The present invention relates to an aqueous polymer dispersion whose dispersed addition polymer P comprises, copolymerized in free-radically polymerized form, at least one polar monomer having a water solubility of greater than 50 g/liter (measured at 20° C.), and obtainable by free-radically initiated aqueous emulsion polymerization, the polar monomer being metered to the reaction mixture during the polymerization process at a variable, i.e., nonconstant rate, for example in the sense of a rate gradient. The present invention further relates to processes for preparing these aqueous polymer dispersions, to their use as binders and/or in coatings, and also to coatings comprising the polymer dispersion of the invention.
US08552120B2 Grafted and functionalized high 1,4-trans polybutadiene with aromatic organosulfur compound
The present invention relates to a process of preparing 1,4-trans polybutadiene grafted with an aromatic organosulfur compound, the process comprising (a) preparing 1,4-trans polybutadiene by polymerizing 1,3-butadiene or butadiene derivatives in a nonpolar solvent in the presence of a particular catalyst, and (b) preparing the 1,4-trans polybutadiene grafted with an aromatic organosulfur compound by reacting the trans polybutadiene with an aromatic organosulfur compound. The organosulfur molecule in the molecular chain minimizes ultra high molecular weight fraction and narrows the molecular weight distribution, thereby enabling this polymer to show improved processability and tensile properties.
US08552118B2 Polyisobutylenes and process for making same
The present invention generally relates to alcohol-terminated polyisobutylene (PIB) compounds, and to a process for making such compounds. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to primary alcohol-terminated polyisobutylene compounds, and to a process for making such compounds. In still another embodiment, the present invention relates to polyisobutylene compounds that can be used to synthesize polyurethanes, to polyurethane compounds made via the use of such polyisobutylene compounds, and to processes for making such compounds. In yet another embodiment, the present invention relates to primary alcohol-terminated polyisobutylene compounds having two or more primary alcohol termini and to a process for making such compounds. In yet another embodiment, the present invention relates to primary terminated polyisobutylene compounds having two or more primary termini selected from amine groups or methacrylate groups.
US08552117B1 Sealing elements and sealing element compositions
Polyolefin based sealing element compositions with good oxygen barrier properties particularly suitable for forming sealing elements, for example gaskets and cap liners that are especially useful for sealing containers having products such as liquids or food-stuffs therein. The compositions when formed as sealing elements do not appreciably contribute taste and/or odor to a packaged product including the sealing element. The compositions have desirable rheological properties and are thus readily processable at various temperatures.
US08552112B2 Weatherable thermoplastic resin composition having excellent low gloss characteristic and method of preparing the same
The present invention provides a weather resistant thermoplastic resin with low gloss and a method of preparing the same. The thermoplastic resin of the present invention comprises a (meth)acrylic acid alkyl ester-based polymer (A) and a (meth)acrylic acid alkyl ester-based oligomeric prepolymer (B), and an aromatic vinyl-cyanide vinyl based copolymer (C), wherein the (meth)acrylic acid alkyl ester-based polymer (A) and the (meth)acrylic acid alkyl ester-based oligomeric prepolymer (B) form a network-shaped disperse phase and the aromatic vinyl-cyanide vinyl based copolymer (C) forms a continuous phase.
US08552111B2 Environmentally friendly polymeric textile coating
A composition comprises a polyvinylchloride homopolymer, a biodegradable plasticizer and either a swelling agent or a carbohydrate coupled to the polyvinylchloride homopolymer or a combination thereof. The composition may further comprise a blowing agent. A coated fabric comprises a textile substrate and a biodegradable coating at least partially coating the textile substrate, wherein the biodegradable coating degrades at least 60% after 28 days under the ASTM D584 standard. A method of making a biodegradable coating comprises providing a polymer and blending a biodegradable plasticizer with the polymer to form a blend. A method of making a coated textile comprises providing a textile and a composition comprising a polymer, a biodegradable plasticizer, and at least one other component; applying the composition to the textile; and curing the composition, thereby making a coated textile.
US08552106B2 Dispersion of fluorosilicones and fluorine- and silicon-containing surface treatment agent
A fluorosilicone reaction product of a mercapto or vinyl functional organopolysiloxane and a fluorine-containing monomer, and methods of preparing the fluorosilicone are disclosed. The fluorosilicone products are suitable for application to substrates such as textiles, particularly fabrics, to impart oil repellent properties to the textile. The fluorosilicone reaction product is prepared from (A) a fluorine-containing monomer of the formula CH2═C(X)COOYRf, and (B) a mercapto or vinyl functional organopolysiloxane.
US08552102B2 Coating composition
The present invention relates to a novel resin composition useful as a coating agent or a binder for medicines, drugs for animals, agricultural chemicals, fertilizers, foods or the like, which contains a polyvinyl alcohol copolymer as a main component. More particularly, the present invention relates to a resin composition, characterized in that the composition is obtained by copolymerizing a polyvinyl alcohol having an average polymerization degree of 1300 or less, and at least one polymerizable vinyl monomer in a weight ratio of 6:4 to 9:1.
US08552097B2 Polymer vulcanizate and process for the production thereof
A new polymer composition comprising (i) a polymer having a main polymer chain derived from (ia) at least 30% by weight to 100% by weight based on the polymer of a first monomer which introduces at least one of a secondary carbon and a tertiary carbon to the main polymer chain, and (ib) in the range of from 0 to 70% by weight based on the polymer of at least one other monomer; (ii) at least one lithium salt; and (iii) at least one antioxidant is provided, as well as a process for producing a polymer vulcanizate comprising the step of vulcanizing the polymer composition mentioned above additionally comprising a vulcanization system. A method for improving the hot air aging and aqueous fluid resistance characteristics of the polymer mentioned above comprises the step of admixing said polymer with at least one lithium salt and at least one antioxidant is also provided.
US08552096B2 Flame-retardant reinforced polycarbonate compositions
A composition containing a polycarbonate, a polycarbonate-polysiloxane copolymer, an alicyclic hydrocarbon resin flow promoter, an inorganic filler, a flame retardant and an impact modifier. The compositions may include polycarbonate in an amount of 40% by weight or more of the combined weights of the polycarbonate, polycarbonate-polysiloxane copolymer, inorganic filler, flame retardant, flow promoter, and impact modifier compound wherein a molded sample of the thermoplastic composition is capable of achieving UL94 V0 rating at a thickness of 1.2 mm (±10%); wherein the polymer composition has a melt viscosity of 185 Pa·sec or less, when measured at 270° C. and 1500 sec−1; and wherein a molded sample of the thermoplastic composition has a flexural modulus determined in accordance with ASTM D790 within 3800-8000 MPa; and wherein a 3.2-mm thick molded NII bar comprising the composition has a notched Izod impact strength of 40 to 200 J/m determined in accordance with ASTM D256 at 23° C.
US08552095B1 Flame-retardant polymer composition and article
A flame-retardant polymer composition includes specific amounts of polyamide, acid-functionalized poly(phenylene ether), polyimide, and metal dialkylphosphinate. The composition, which exhibits improved flame retardancy and tensile modulus relative to known blends of poly(phenylene ether), polyamide, and polyimide, is useful for forming electrical components, such as photovoltaic junction boxes and connectors, inverter housings, automotive electrical connectors, electrical relays, and charge couplers.
US08552091B2 Multiphase acrylic adhesives
The invention relates to cured (meth)acrylate based adhesive composition, comprising at least two co-continuous phases of interpenetrating networks and at least two types of polymeric inclusions, in which one of the co-continuous phases comprises a polymer or copolymer based on at least one acrylic or methacrylic acid monomer or a derivative thereof. These compositions exhibit better facture toughness, especially at low temperatures.
US08552089B2 Ink composition for forming light shielding film of organic semiconductor device, method for forming light shielding film, and organic transistor device having light shielding film
There is provided an ink composition for forming a light shielding film in an organic semiconductor device which is capable of stably forming a fine pattern when forming a finely patterned light shielding film by the letterpress reverse printing method or microcontact printing method, which can be baked at a temperature equal to or less than the substrate heatproof temperature, and which is also capable of providing light shielding property and mechanical strength, the ink composition for forming a light shielding film in an organic semiconductor device which is an ink composition for forming a light shielding film in an organic semiconductor device comprising a black pigment; a resin component; a surface energy modifier; a quick-drying organic solvent; a slow-drying organic solvent; and a mold releasing agent, wherein the resin component comprises a solid resin that is in a solid state at 200° C. or less and a liquid resin that is in a liquid state at 10 to 50° C. at a ratio (solid resin/liquid resin) of 0.2 to 0.6.
US08552088B2 Cement for dental applications
A cement for dental use, containing a first agent and a second agent, wherein both of the first agent and the second agent contain a polymerizable monomer (a) and a filler (b), wherein the first agent and/or the second agent further contains a photopolymerization initiator (c), wherein further as a chemical polymerization initiator (d), either one of the first agent and the second agent contains an oxidizing agent (f) and the other contains a reducing agent (g), the oxidizing agent (f) and the reducing agent (g) constituting a redox polymerization initiator, wherein the photopolymerization initiator (c) contains an α-diketone, and the photopolymerization initiator (c) is contained in a total amount of from 0.010 to 0.100 parts by weight, based on 100 parts by weight of the total amount of the polymerizable monomer (a), wherein the chemical polymerization initiator (d) is contained in a total amount of from 0.001 to 20 parts by weight, based on 100 parts by weight of the total amount of the polymerizable monomer (a), and wherein a cured product has a compression modulus immediately after photocuring of from 100 to 400 MPa, and a compression modulus after 24 hours from photocuring of 500 MPa or more. The cement for dental use of the present invention is suitably used for adhering the dentine and a crowning restorative material in the field of dental therapy, or the like.
US08552081B2 High modulus bio-based polymer formulations
The present invention is a high modulus bio-based polymer plastic composition or mixture and methods of preparing the same. The composition is formed from the reaction of a bio-based epoxidized triglyceride oil, an energy activated catalyst and a bio-based non-aromatic cross-linking compound to form a structural polymer plastic. The bio-based epoxidized triglyceride oil is selected from a bio-based epoxidized triglyceride or a bio-based acrylated epoxidized triglyceride. The non-aromatic cross-linking compound is selected from itaconic acid or itaconic anhydride, and the energy activated catalyst is activated by UV radiation or heat.
US08552070B2 Metallic pigment preparation in compacted form, method for producing the same and use thereof
A pigment preparation with metallic effect pigments in compacted form, the pigment preparation including the following components: a) 60%-95% by weight of at least one metallic effect pigment which has at least one low-refractive-index layer (low-index layer) on the metallic core of the metallic effect pigment, the low-index layer comprising or consisting of at least one inorganic component, b) 0.5%-40% by weight of a binder which is free from styrene groups, has an acid number of 150-500 mg KOH/g binder, and a melting point or melting range which lies in the range of 120-200° C., c) a residual moisture content in the range of 0%-15% by weight of at least one of water, organic solvent and a solvent mixture and d) optionally neutralizing agent(s). The disclosure further relates to a method for producing the pigment preparation and also to the use thereof.
US08552068B2 Compositions and methods
Gaseous nitric oxide (NO) can be delivered to a mammal for prophylactic or therapeutic purposes using a composition capable of delivering NO, comprising a compound capable of forming a reversible bond or association with NO. Methods for the manufacture and use of said composition are disclosed.
US08552067B2 Macromolecular conjugates of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator protein inhibitors and uses therefor
Provided herein are bioactive agents comprising a compound that inhibits the ion transport activity of a cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) and that is linked to a macromolecule that interacts with a cell that expresses CFTR. The bioactive agents described herein are useful for treating diseases, disorders, and sequelae of diseases, disorders, and conditions that are associated with aberrantly increased CFTR activity, for example, secretory diarrhea.
US08552066B2 Modified chalcone compounds as antimitotic agents
Antimitotic agents comprising a modified chalcone or modified chalcone derivative are disclosed. The modified chalcone or modified chalcone derivative compounds are of the general formula CHAL-LIN-COV, wherein CHAL is a chalcone or chalcone derivative portion, LIN is an optional linker portion, and COV is a covalent bonding portion (e.g., an α,β-unsaturated thiol ester group). The modified chalcone or modified chalcone derivative compounds provide an improved method of interference with tubulin polymerization, for example by covalent (and essentially irreversible) bonding between tubulin and the covalent bonding portion, potentially resulting in a decrease in tumor size and/or disappearance of the cancer, to the benefit of cancer patients.
US08552065B2 Biarylamide derivative and compositions containing the derivative as an active ingredient
The present invention relates to a novel biarylamide derivative and a pharmaceutical composition or a cosmetic composition comprising the same as an active ingredient. More particularly, the present invention relates to a novel biarylamide derivative, a pharmaceutical composition or a cosmetic composition for preventing or treating a pigmentation disorder caused by an abnormal excess of melanin or a disease caused by melanocyte hyperplasia comprising the same as an active ingredient. The biarylamide derivative of the present invention inhibits melanin production and thus inhibits melanocyte hyperplasia. Therefore, a cosmetic composition comprising the biarylamide is excellent in a whitening effect, and a pharmaceutical composition comprising the biarylamide is effective in the prevention or treatment of pigmentation disorders of skin such as lentigo, melasma, freckle, etc. and malignant melanoma.
US08552064B2 Suramin and derivatives thereof as topical microbicide and contraceptive
The present invention is directed to methods of inhibiting STDs by topically administering suramin or a derivative thereof to actual or potential sites of infection, and methods of preventing pregnancy by topically applying suramin or a derivative thereof intravaginally. Suramin compositions that include an antimicrobial agent and/or a sperm-function inhibitor are also provided and may advantageously be used in the methods of the invention. A method of simultaneously inhibiting STDs and preventing pregnancy is also provided. Devices impregnated or coated with the topical suramin compositions are further disclosed and may be used to apply the compositions described herein.
US08552061B2 Locally active “soft” antiandrogens
The present invention relates to antiandrogenic compounds which may be administered for the treatment of androgen excess in the skin and by way of consequence, the treatment of acne, baldness or hirsuitism in subject or patient. These compounds have the general chemical structure (I, II, III or IV).
US08552060B2 Methods for treatment of sexual dysfunction
This invention is directed to a method of treating sexual dysfunction in a subject, comprising the step of administering a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of Formula (I): or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or ester thereof wherein Rx is a member selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, lower alkyl of 1 to 8 carbon atoms, halogen selected from F, CI, Br and I, alkoxy containing 1 to 3 carbon atoms, nitro, hydroxy, trifluoromethyl, and thioalkoxy containing 1 to 3 carbon atoms; x is an integer of 1 to 3, with the proviso that R may be the same or different when x is 2 or 3; R1 and R2 can be the same or different from each other and are independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, lower alkyl of 1 to 8 carbon atoms, aryl, arylalkyl, cycloalkyl of 3 to 7 carbon atoms; R1 and R2 can be joined to form a 5 to 7-membered heterocycle substituted with a member selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, alkyl, and aryl groups, wherein the cyclic compound can comprise 1 to 2 nitrogen atoms and O to 1 oxygen atom, wherein the nitrogen atoms are not directly connected with each other or with the oxygen atom.
US08552058B2 Application of L-n-butylphthalide in preventing and treating dementia
The invention discloses the application of l-n-butylphthalide as formula (I) in preparing a medicine for preventing and treating dementia, in special Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia.
US08552051B2 Use of pharmaceutical compositions containing mesembrenone
The use of mesembrenone and medicaments and dietary supplements containing mesembrenone. The applicant has surprisingly found that mesembrenone exhibits potent PDE-4 inhibition properties and, in addition to being useful in treating conditions that respond to treatment with a PDE-4 inhibitor, has dual activity on account of its serotonin-uptake inhibition properties. Mesembrenone is extracted and isolated, for example as a pure compound, from plant material of the plant family Mesembryanthemaceae. Preferably a plant or plants from the genus Sceletium, more preferably, Sceletium tortuosum(L) N.E.Br is used.
US08552049B2 Pyrazolecarboxamide derivatives and their use as microbiocides
Compounds of Formula (I) wherein R1 is C1-C4alkyl or C1-C4 haloalkyl; R2 is C1-C4alkyl; R3 is hydrogen or halogen; R4 is hydrogen, C1-C4alkyl or C1-C4halogenalkyl; R5 is hydrogen, halogen, C1-C4alkyl or C1-C4halogenalkyl; R6 is hydrogen, halogen, C1-C4alkyl, C2-C6alkenyl or C3-C6alkinyl; R7 is hydrogen, halogen, C1-C6alkyl, C2-C6alkenyl, C3-C6alkinyl, C3-C6cycloalkyl-C3-C6alkinyl, halophenoxy, halophenyi, C1-C6haloalkyl, C1-C6haloakoxy, C2-C6haloalkenyl, or C2-C6haloalkenyloxy; R8 is hydrogen, halogen, C1-C4alkyl, C2-C6alkenyl or C3-C6alkinyl; with the provisio that at least one of R6, R7 and R8 is different from hydrogen; n is 0 or 1, are suitable for use as microbriocides.
US08552047B2 Hepatitis C virus inhibitors
The present disclosure relates to compounds, compositions and methods for the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds and methods for using these compounds in the treatment of HCV infection.
US08552045B2 Tricyclic imidazole compounds as PDE10 inhibitors
This invention is directed to compounds with the structure which are PDE10A enzyme inhibitors. The invention provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of the invention and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The present invention also provides processes for the preparation of the compounds of formula 1. The present invention further provides a method of treating a subject suffering from a neurodegenerative disorder comprising administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of formula 1. The present invention also provides a method of treating a subject suffering from a drug addiction comprising administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of formula 1. The present invention further provides a method of treating a subject suffering from a psychiatric disorder comprising administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of formula 1.
US08552044B1 Coatings for disease control
The present invention relates to coatings for disease control. More particularly, the present invention relates to coatings that are effective against toxins, precursors to these coatings and methods of forming the coatings.
US08552042B2 Use of combination preparations comprising antifungal agents
The invention relates to the use of an antimycotic agent and an epithelial cell or endothelial cell adhesion inhibitor for producing a combination drug for the topical treatment of Candida mycoses selected from vulvovaginal candidiasis, oropharyngeal candidiasis (oral thrush), diaper dermatitis (diaper thrush) and intertriginous (Candida) eczema.
US08552040B2 Isoxazoline compounds having MIF antagonist activity
Methods of use and pharmaceutical compositions for a genus of low molecular weight compounds comprising optionally substituted isoxazoline ring systems that act as inhibitors of MIF (macrophage migration inhibitory factor) are disclosed. Specifically, the compounds are useful for treating a variety of diseases involving inflammatory activity or pro-inflammatory cytokine responses, such as autoimmune diseases (including rheumatoid arthritis, insulin-dependent diabetes, multiple sclerosis, graft versus host disease, lupus syndromes), asthma, arthritis, ARDS, psoriasis, interleukin-2 toxicity, proliferative vascular disease, and various forms of sepsis and septic shock, and other conditions characterized by underlying MIF responses including, for instance, tumor growth and neovascularization (angiogenesis).
US08552038B2 Crystalline forms of thiazolidinedione compound and its manufacturing method
A crystalline form of a hydrate of a dihydrochloride 5-(4-{[6-(4-amino-3,5-dimethylphenoxy)-1-methyl-1-H-benzimidazol-2-yl]methoxy}benzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2,4-dione represented by the following formula: wherein the crystalline form shows main peaks at interplanar spacings of 10.42, 5.85, 5.52, 3.84, 3.46 and 2.95 angstroms in X-ray powder diffraction obtained with Cu Kα line radiation (wavelength λ=1.54 angstroms).
US08552037B2 Tricyclic compound and pharmaceutical use thereof
The present invention provides a compound represented by the formula which is useful as an agent for the prophylaxis or treatment of diseases related to the action of melatonin, or a salt thereof and the like.
US08552036B2 Polymorph of atazanavir sulfate
The present invention provides a novel crystalline form of atazanavir sulfate, process for its preparation and to pharmaceutical composition containing it. In accordance with the present invention atazanavir sulfate was dissolved in methanol, to the solution was added ethyl acetate, the solid obtained was collected by filtration and dried to give atazanavir sulfate crystalline form H1.
US08552035B2 Phenanthrenone compounds, compositions and methods
The present invention is directed to compounds of Formula I: or salt thereof, which are modulators of the glucocorticoid receptor. The compounds and salts of the invention are useful in the treatment of conditions mediated by glucocorticoid receptor activity.
US08552032B2 Bicyclic derivatives useful as inhibitors of DPP-1
The present invention is directed to novel bicyclic derivatives, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use in the treatment of disorders and conditions modulated by DPP-1.
US08552031B2 3-ethylidenehydrazino substituted heterocyclic compounds as thrombopoietin receptor activators
A compound represented by the formula (1): wherein A, B, R1, L1, R2, L2, L3, Y, L4, R3 and X are the same as defined in the description, a tautomer, prodrug or pharmaceutically acceptable salt of the compound or a solvate thereof.
US08552029B2 Quinoline derivatives and uses of the same
Provided is a quinoline derivative of Chemical Formula (I): wherein, R1 is a substituted or unsubstituted phenyl group, R2 is a halogen, and R3 is a substituted or unsubstituted phenyl group, and one of the carbon atoms in the phenyl ring of the phenyl group is optionally substituted by a nitrogen atom (N). The quinoline derivative can efficiently inhibit cancer cell proliferation and can be used for treating cancer, especially for treating cancers related to the Janus kinase-signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK-STAT) pathway and/or the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway.
US08552027B2 Luminescent compounds
Dyes and photoluminescent compounds based on polymethine dyes that contain at least one alkyl-phosphonate or substituted alkyl-phosphonate group, including the synthetic precursors, methods of synthesis, and applications thereof. Certain embodiments include heterocyclic ring systems and polymethine linkage are selected such that the resulting polymethine dye is a cyanine dye, a merocyanine dye, or a styryl dye.
US08552026B2 Isatin derivatives, medicaments containing the isatin derivatives and method for its preparation
The present invention relates to an isatin derivative having the formula (I), a medicament for treatment of tuberculoses containing that isatin derivative as well as a method for preparing isatin derivative according to formula (I).
US08552025B2 Stable methylnaltrexone preparation
Stable pharmaceutical compositions useful for administering methylnaltrexone are described, as are methods for making the same. Kits, including these pharmaceutical compositions, also are provided.
US08552022B2 Substituted cyclopropyl compounds, compositions containing such compounds and methods of treatment
Substituted cyclopropyl compounds of the formula I: are disclosed as useful for treating or preventing type 2 diabetes and similar conditions. Pharmaceutically acceptable salts are included as well. The compounds are useful as agonists of the g-protein coupled receptor GPR-119.
US08552017B2 2-amino-3-sulphonyl-tetrahydro-pyrazolo[1,5-A]pyrido-pyrimidine antagonists of serotonin 5-HT6 receptors, methods for the production and use thereof
The invention relates to serotonin 5-HT6 receptor antagonists—novel 2-amino-3-arylsulfonyl-6,7,8,9-tetrahydropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrido[4,3-e]pyrimidines and substituted 2-amino-3-arylsulfonyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrido[4,3-d]pyrimidines, drug substances and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the said drug substances as the said compounds, and also to method of prophylaxis and treatment of various diseases of central nervious system in humans and animals pathogenesis of which is associated with serotonin 5-HT6 receptors including cognitive and neurodegenerative diseases.Substituted 2-amino-3-arylsulfonyl-6,7,8,9-tetrahydropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrido[4,3-e]pyrimidines of the general formula 1 and substituted 2-amino-3-arylsulfonyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrido[4,3-d]pyrimidines of the general formula 2 and pharmaceutically acceptable salts and/or hydrates thereof. wherein: Ar is optionally substituted aryl or optionally substituted heteroaryl; R1 is hydrogen, optionally substituted C1-C3 alkyl, C1-C4 alkyloxycarbonyl; R2 is hydrogen, halogen or optionally substituted C1-C3 alkyl; R13 and R23 represent optionally alike: hydrogen, optionally substituted C1-C3 alkyl or R13 and R23 together with the nitrogen atom to which they are attached form an optionally substituted azaheterocycle.
US08552013B2 Heterocyclic compounds based on N6-substituted adenine, methods of their preparation, their use for preparation of drugs, cosmetic preparations and growth regulators, pharmaceutical preparations, cosmetic preparations and growth regulators containing these compounds
Novel heterocyclic derivatives based on N6-substituted adenine, having anticancer, mitotic, immunosuppressive and antisenescent properties for plant, animal and human cells and methods of their preparation. Included are also pharmaceutical compositions, cosmetic preparations and growth regulators, which contain these derivatives as active compound and the use of these derivatives for the preparation of drugs, cosmetic preparations, in biotechnological processes, in cosmetics and in agriculture.
US08552003B2 (S)-N-((S)-1-cyclohexyl-2-{(S)-2-[4-4-(4-fluorobenzoyl)-thiazol-2-yl]pyrrolidin-1-yl}-2-oxoethyl)-2-methylamino-propionamide, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof and their uses
The present invention is directed to a compound of the formula: or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof and use of such compounds for treating proliferative diseases such as cancer, in mammals.
US08552002B2 Compounds and compositions as protein kinase inhibitors
The invention relates to compounds of formula (I) wherein the substituents X1, R1, R2, R3 and R4 have the meaning as set forth and explained in the description of the invention, to processes for the preparation of these compounds, pharmaceutical compositions containing same, the use thereof optionally in combination with one or more other pharmaceutically active compounds for the therapy of a disease which responds to an inhibition of protein kinase activity, and a method for the treatment of such a disease.
US08551998B2 Delta opioid receptor agonist compounds
Compositions and methods for treatment of sexual dysfunctions by administering to a subject a pharmaceutical composition comprising a delta opioid receptor agonist in an amount effective to delay the onset of ejaculation in the subject during sexual stimulation.
US08551997B2 Structural-based inhibitors of the glutathione binding site in aldose reductase, methods of screening therefor and methods of use
Provided herein are methods of treating a pathophysiological state or symptoms thereof resulting from aldose reductase-mediated signaling in a cytotoxic pathway in a subject using an inhibitor of aldose reductase. Particularly, specific inhibitors may be a small-interfering RNA (siRNA) or may be inhibitors of glutathione-aldehyde binding to aldose reductase which are designed via at least computer modeling of the ternary AR:NADPH:DCEG structure. Also, methods of treating a cancer or suppressing metastasis thereof using the siRNAs and aldose reductase inhibitors are provided.
US08551992B2 Aminooxazole inhibitors of cyclin dependent kinases
Oxazole derivatives are described. The inventive compounds are useful as kinase inhibitors, and may be used in the treatment of cancer, such as prostate cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer, colon cancer, leukemia, CNS cancer, melanoma, ovarian cancer, and renal cancer.
US08551991B2 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoxaline derivative having glucocorticoid receptor binding activity
An object of the present invention is to synthesize a novel 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoxaline derivative represented by formula (1) and to find a pharmacological action of the derivative. In the formula, the R1 represents a halogen, an alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl or heterocyclic group, or the like; p represents 0 to 5; R2 represents a halogen, an alkyl, hydroxyl or alkoxy group, or the like; q represents 0 to 2; R3 represents hydrogen, an alkyl, alkenyl, alkylcarbonyl or arylcarbonyl group, or the like; R4 and R5 independently represent hydrogen, a halogen, an alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, aryl or heterocyclic group, or the like; R6 represents hydrogen, an alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, aryl or heterocyclic group, or the like; A represents an alkylene; R7 represents OR8, NR8R9, SR8, S(O)R8, S(O)2R8; and X represents O or S.
US08551985B2 Carbinol derivatives having heterocyclic linker
[Object]It is to provide a novel LXRβ agonist useful as a preventative and/or therapeutic agent for atherosclerosis; arteriosclerosis such as those resulting from diabetes; dyslipidemia; hypercholesterolemia; lipid-related diseases; inflammatory diseases that are caused by inflammatory cytokines; skin diseases such as allergic skin diseases; diabetes; or Alzheimer's disease.[Solving Means]A carbinol compound represented by the following general formula (I) or salt thereof, or their solvate: (wherein, each V and W independently show N or C—R7; each X and Y independently show CH2, C═O, SO2, etc; Z shows CH or N; each R1, R2 and R7 independently show a hydrogen atom, C1-8 alkyl group, etc.; R3 shows C1-8 alkyl group; R4 shows an optionally substituted C6-10 aryl group or an optionally substituted 5- to 11-membered heterocyclic group; R5 and R6 show a hydrogen atom, etc.; L shows a C1-8 alkyl chain optionally substituted with an oxo group, etc.; and n shows any integer of 0 to 2.)
US08551984B2 Aminopyrimidines as SYK inhibitors
The present invention provides novel pyrimidine amines of formula (I) which are potent inhibitors of spleen tyrosine kinase, and are useful in the treatment and prevention of diseases mediated by said enzyme, such as asthma, COPD and rheumatoid arthritis.
US08551983B2 Nicotinic receptor agonists for the treatment of inflammatory diseases
Nicotine receptor agonists or analogs or derivatives thereof for treating inflammatory pulmonary diseases, and pharmaceutical compositions including nicotine receptor agonists or analogs or derivatives thereof. Compounds of formula wherein R1, R2, Xa and Ya are as defined herein are also provided.
US08551982B2 Benzodioxane inhibitors of leukotriene production
The present invention relates to compounds of formula (I): wherein R1 to R3, A, X and n are as defined herein. The compounds of formula (I) are useful as inhibitors of leukotriene A4 hydrolase (LTA4H) and treating LTA4H related disorder. The present invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds of formula (I), methods of using these compounds in the treatment of various diseases and disorders, and processes for preparing these compounds.
US08551980B2 Substituted triazolopyridines
The present invention relates to triazolopyridine compounds of general formula (I) which are Monopolar Spindle 1 kinase (Mps-1 or TTK) inhibitors: Formula (I), in which R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5 are as given in the description and in the claims, to methods of preparing said compounds, to pharmaceutical compositions and combinations comprising said compounds, to the use of said compounds for manufacturing a pharmaceutical composition for the treatment or prophylaxis proliferative of diseases, as well as to intermediate compounds useful in the preparation of said compounds.
US08551977B2 Use of perifosine in combination with antimetabolites for the treatment of benign and malignant oncoses in humans and mammals
The invention relates to the use of alkylphosphocholines in combination with antimetabolite antitumor substances for the treatment of benign and malignant oncoses in humans and animals. It is possible in this connection for the alkylphosphocholines to be employed in a combination according to the invention with one or more antimetabolite antitumor substances. Preferred alkylphosphocholines are described by the Formula II. One such preferred alkylphosphocholine is perifosine.
US08551975B1 Hyaluronic acid in soft gel form
An orally administered soft gelatin formulation preparation of low molecular weight Hyaluronic Acid (HA) for use as a nutritional supplement to provide the primary benefit of internally causing the softening of the human skin.
US08551971B2 Composition for treatment of pancreatic cancer
Disclosed is a composition for treating pancreatic cancer. The composition comprises a pharmaceutically effective amount of an antisense nucleic acid or siRNA that inhibits expression of at least one gene selected from the group consisting of SON gene, MCM5 gene, WDR5 gene, PBK gene and CENPA gene. The composition inhibits the expression of a specific gene to provide the effect of inhibiting the proliferation, survival and tumorigenicity of pancreatic cancer cells.
US08551969B2 Methods to identify compounds useful for tumor sensitization to DNA damage
Cdc25A is herein identified as a substrate for β-TrCP1- or β-TrCP2-mediated ubiquitination and subsequent degradation via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. In particular, it has been found that interfering with β-TrCP expression or function, or increasing β-TrCP degradation, leads to accumulation of Cdc25A in a cell. Since degradation of Cdc25A is a key feature of the response to DNA damage, leading to a stall in the cell cycle during which the cell can repair the damage, Cdc25A accumulation can abolish this response, thereby sensitizing the cell to DNA damage. Described herein are assays for identifying β-TrCP inhibitors, and method of using such inhibitors for modulating Cdc25A degradation, sensitization of tumor cells, and as adjuvants in cancer therapy based on DNA damaging agents.
US08551960B2 Uses of D-mannopyranose derivatives activating angiogenesis
The invention relates to the use of certain derivatives of D-mannopyranoside for controlling angiogenesis. These compounds have a pro-angiogenic activity, and can particularly be used for preparing a pharmaceutical composition for treating cardiovascular diseases or for treating muscular atrophy. The invention also relates to certain D-mannopyranoside derivatives, to a pharmaceutical or cosmetic composition containing said derivatives, and to the use of such a cosmetic composition for preventing and/or treating hair loss.
US08551959B2 Glycolipid and use thereof
The invention provides a glycolipid effective for cancer treatment and the like and a synthetic intermediate therefor, as well as a medicament containing the glycolipid and the like. The glycolipid is represented by the formula (1) or a salt thereof
US08551957B2 Pharmaceutical composition comprising a glucopyranosyl-substituted benzene derivate
The invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition according to the claim 1 comprising a glucopyranosyl-substituted benzene derivative in combination with a DPP IV inhibitor which is suitable in the treatment or prevention of one or more conditions selected from type 1 diabetes mellitus, type 2 diabetes mellitus, impaired glucose tolerance and hyperglycemia. In addition the present invention relates to methods for preventing or treating of metabolic disorders and related conditions.
US08551956B2 Compositions containing peptides with non-natural amino acids and methods of use
The invention relates generally to peptides comprising one or more non-natural amino acids residues and their use in cosmetic and personal care compositions.
US08551954B2 Antimicrobial peptides with heparin binding activity
An antimicrobial peptide with heparin binding activity is described. It can be derived from endogenous mammalian proteins being substantially free from antimicrobial activity selected from the group consisting of laminin isoforms, complement factor C3, histidin rich glycoprotein and kininogen and having from 10 to 36 amino acids residues, wherein the antimicrobial peptide consists of at least four amino acid residues selected from the group consisting of K,R, and H. Also described are pharmaceutical compositions comprising said antimicrobial peptide and use of the antimicrobial peptide and/or antimicrobial/pharmaceutical composition.
US08551953B2 Treatment of T-cell mediated diseases
The invention provides a method of treating T-cell mediated diseases and a method of inhibiting the activation of T-cells using certain diketopiperazines. The invention also provides methods of synthesizing diketopiperazines and pharmaceutical compositions comprising certain diketopiperazines. The invention further provides methods of making improved pharmaceutical compositions of proteins and peptides by either increasing or decreasing the content of diketopiperazines in the compositions and the resultant improved pharmaceutical compositions.
US08551952B2 Methods for the treatment and prevention of ocular disorders
Provided herein are methods for treatment of ocular diseases. The methods comprise administering a compound of general Formula (I): wherein R1, R2, R3, R4 and Ak are as defined in the specification.
US08551951B2 Pharmaceutical preparations and methods for inhibiting tumors
The invention provides pharmaceutical compositions and method for inhibiting growth of prostatic adenocarcinoma, stomach cancer, breast cancer, endometrial, ovarian or other cancers of epithelial secretion, or benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). In one embodiment the pharmaceutical composition includes human rHuPSP94, antigenic portions thereof, and functionally equivalent polypeptides thereof. In another embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition includes a mixture of human rHuPSP94, antigenic portions thereof, and functionally equivalent polypeptides thereof and an anticancer drug which may be administered in an appropriate dosage form, dosage quantity and dosage regimen to a patient suffering from, for example of prostatic adenocarcinoma, stomach cancer, breast cancer, endometrial, ovarian or other cancers of epithelial secretion, benign prostate hyperplasia, or (BPH) gastrointestinal cancer. The anticancer drug of the latter mixture may be one selected from the group of drugs including mitomycin, idarubicin, cisplatin, 5-fluoro-uracil, methotrexate, adriamycin, daunomycin, taxol, taxol derivative, and mixtures thereof.
US08551947B2 Treatment of hibernating myocardium with an exendin peptide
Hibernating myocardium is characterized by viable myocardium with impaired function due to localized reduced perfusion. Hibernating myocytes retain cellular integrity, but cannot sustain high-energy requirements of contraction. High plasma levels of catecholamines, such as norepinepherine, are believed to be predictive of mortality from hibernating myocardium. Likewise, high levels of catecholamines lead to cardiomyopathy in patients with diabetes. GLP-1 reduces plasma norepinepherine levels, and it thus is useful in a method of treating hibernating myocardium or diabetic cardiomyopathy.
US08551946B2 Glucagon antagonist-GIP agonist conjugates and compositions for the treatment of metabolic disorders and obesity
Provided herein are peptide combinations comprising a GIP agonist peptide and a glucagon antagonist peptide. In some embodiments, the peptide combination is provided as a composition, e.g., a pharmaceutical composition, while in other embodiments, the peptide combination is provided as a kit. In yet other embodiments, the peptide combination is provided as a conjugate, e.g., a fusion peptide, a heterodimer. In specific aspects, the GIP agonist peptide is an analog of native human glucagon. In specific aspects, the glucagon antagonist peptide is an analog of native human glucagon. In some embodiments, the GIP agonist peptide is covalently attached to the glucagon antagonist peptide via a linker. Methods of treating a disease, e.g., a metabolic disorder, such as diabetes and obesity, comprising administering the peptide compositions described herein are further provided.
US08551938B2 NPR-B agonists
Disclosed are novel compounds having NPR-B agonistic activity. Preferred compounds are linear peptides containing 8-13 conventional or non-conventional L- or D-amino acid residues connected to one another via peptide bonds.
US08551937B2 Peptide having an extending action for half-life of object peptide in plasma
An isolated chimeric peptide consisting of one or two added peptides and an object peptide wherein the added peptide is bonded to the N-terminus, the C-terminus or both of the object peptide, wherein if the added peptides are bound to both terminals, the two added peptides may be the same or different; and physiological activity of the object peptide is still retained, wherein the object peptide is a natural physiologically active peptide selected from the group consisting of an atrial natriuretic peptide, a brain natriuretic peptide, a C-type natriuretic peptide, motilin, a glucagon-like peptide 1, parathyroid hormone, and calcitonin, or a derivative of any thereof, wherein the derivative has one or more amino acid(s) deleted from the amino acid sequence of a natural physiologically active peptide and has the desired physiological activity.
US08551936B2 Defensin-antigen fusion proteins
The present invention relates to a vaccine for increasing the immunogenicity of a tumor antigen thus allowing treatment of cancer, as well as a vaccine that increases the immunogenicity of a viral antigen, thus allowing treatment of viral infection, including immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. In particular, the present invention provides a fusion protein comprising a defensin fused to either a tumor antigen or viral antigen which is administered as either a protein or nucleic acid vaccine to elicit an immune response effective in treating cancer or effective in treating or preventing viral infection.
US08551929B2 Unit dose detergent compositions and methods of production and use thereof
The present invention provides unit dose detergent products, such as those in the form of compositions comprising: a water-soluble single-chamber container, such as a pouch; and a cleaning system comprising at least one detersive surfactant, and optionally one or more additional components. The invention also provides methods of production of such compositions, and methods use of such compositions in processes for cleaning dishware and/or fabrics, including garments, by introducing one or more of the unit dose products of the invention into an automatic washing machine suitable for washing dishware or laundry, whereby the cleaning system is released such that it comes into contact with a soiled article (e.g., dishware or fabrics) under conditions favoring the removal of one or more soils from the article.
US08551928B2 Multi-agent type cleaning kit for semiconductor substrates, cleaning method using the same and method of producing semiconductor element
A multi-agent type cleaning kit for applying to semiconductor substrates, which contains a foaming agent having an alkylene carbonate and a carbonic acid salt, a foaming aid having an acidic compound, and an oxidizing agent; at least the foaming agent is mixed with the foaming aid upon using for the cleaning of a semiconductor substrate, in combination with the oxidizing agent.
US08551926B2 Stabilizing emulsified acids for carbonate acidizing
Emulsified acids have been used to increase production rates of oil and gas in carbonate reservoirs through acid fracturing and matrix acidizing operations. An emulsifier is used to emulsify the aqueous acid with an oil, usually diesel. Very small particles, such as colloidal clay particles and/or nanoparticles increase the stability of the emulsified acids over an elevated temperature range.
US08551918B2 Herbicidal composition
A herbicidal composition comprising, in addition to customary inert formulation excipients, as a mixture of at least one soil-applied herbicide and a lipophilic additive consisting of a paraffin oil derived from the refined fraction of petroleum oil with a distillation range at 10 mm Hg of about 190 °C. to about 280 °C. and with a carbon number distribution from about C13 to about C55.
US08551917B2 Use of prolines for improving growth and/or yield
The present invention describes a composition including a mixture of L- and D-pyroglutamate stereoisomers in a ratio of L to D of from about 80:20 to about 97:3, and, a carrier medium for application of the L- and D-pyroglutamate stereoisomers to a target plant. The composition can also be used as a germination medium and may be incorporated into a seed coat for assisting in germination. The present invention further describes a method of increasing the agronomic performance of a target plant by treating a target plant with a composition including a mixture of L- and D-pyroglutamate stereoisomers in a ratio of L to D of from about 80:20 to about 97:3 and a carrier medium for said L- and D-pyroglutamate stereoisomers.
US08551916B2 Method for preparation of aqueous emulsion using interfacially active organic compound as emulsifying agent
The present invention provides a method for obtaining O/W emulsions by emulsifying various to-be-emulsified material without the use of any organic solvent, and drying and making into powder the O/W emulsion. The invention relates to a method for producing an O/W emulsion including after preliminarily dispersing a to-be-emulsified material and an interfacially active organic compound in water, heating the preliminary dispersion to a temperature equal to or higher than the melting point of the to-be-emulsified material and equal to or higher than the phase transition temperature of a self-assembled product of the interfacially active organic compound in the absence of an organic solvent, and performing emulsification under a pressure.
US08551914B2 Pesticidal compositions
Molecules having the following structure are disclosed. Processes of using such molecules are disclosed.
US08551910B2 Alumina titanate porous structure
The invention relates to a porous structure comprising a ceramic material comprising mainly or consisting of an oxide material of the pseudobrookite type comprising titanium, aluminum, magnesium and zirconium in proportions such that the phase of the pseudobrookite type substantially satisfies the formula: (Al2TiO5)x(MgTi2O5)y(MgTiZrO5)z. This material satisfies the following composition, in mol % on the basis of just the oxides Al2O3, TiO2, MgO and ZrO2: 90<2a+3m<110; 100+a<3t<210−a; and a+t+m+zr=100, in which: a is the molar content of Al2O3; t is the molar content of TiO2; m is the molar content of MgO; and zr is the molar content of ZrO2.
US08551908B2 Exhaust gas purification catalyst
An exhaust gas purification catalyst includes: a lower catalyst layer that contains a ceria-zirconia mixed oxide having 50 to 70 mass % of CeO2 and 5 mass % or more of Pr2O3 and carries at least one of Pt and Pd; and an upper catalyst layer that contains at least zirconia and carries at least Rh, wherein the total amount of CeO2 per liter of the carrier base is 15 to 30 g. Because the amount of CeO2 is small, formation of H2S is suppressed and a high capability of adsorbing and releasing oxygen is brought out in spite of the small amount of CeO2.
US08551907B2 Dispersed metal sulfide-based catalysts
The invention provides a catalyst composition, which includes an emulsion of an aqueous phase in an oil phase, wherein the aqueous phase comprises an aqueous solution containing a group 6 metal and a group 8, 9 or 10 metal. The metals can be provided in two separate emulsions, and these emulsions are well suited for treating hydrocarbon feedstocks.
US08551905B2 Metal-carbon compositions
A gold-carbon compound that is a reaction product of gold and carbon, wherein the gold and the carbon form a single phase material that is meltable. The compound is one in which the carbon does not phase separate from the gold when the single phase material is heated to a melting temperature.
US08551904B2 High surface area ceramic catalysts and the manufacture thereof
A process for making a ceramic catalyst material includes mixing a catalyst precursor material with a mineral particulate to form a mixture; adding a binder, silicon carbide, and a parting agent to the mixture to form unfired spheroids; and heating the unfired spheroids at a temperature effective to oxidize the silicon carbide and the catalyst precursor material to form the ceramic catalyst material. In another embodiment, the process includes the addition of a catalyst metal oxide salt to an aluminosilicate hydrogel aggregate mixture. Once the mixture sets, the set mixture is heated to a temperature to effective to produce a high surface area ceramic catalyst material.
US08551903B2 Amide ester internal electron donor and process
Disclosed is a process for producing a procatalyst composition having an amide ester internal electron donor. The process includes pre-halogenating a procatalyst precursor before reaction with the amide ester and forming the procatalyst composition. Ziegler-Natta catalyst compositions containing the present procatalyst composition exhibit improved catalyst activity and/or improved catalyst selectivity and produce propylene-based olefins with broad molecular weight distribution.
US08551899B2 Dark neutral green gray soda-lime glass composition
The present invention relates to a dark neutral green gray soda-lime glass composition comprising, as a colorant ingredient per 100 weight parts of a base glass composition, 1.4 to 2.5 weight parts of total Fe2O3, 0.02 to 0.04 weight parts of CoO, 0.0001 to 0.004 weight parts of Se, 0.005 to 0.5 weight parts of MnO2, and 0.05 to 1 weight parts of CeO2. The glass composition of the present invention has a visible light transmittance (LTA) of 15% or less, an ultraviolet ray transmittance (Tuv) of 0 to 1%, and a solar transmittance (Tsol) of 15% or less, measured for a reference thickness of 4 mm. As described above, the glass composition of the present invention is excellent in absorbing ultraviolet rays and solar heat, and therefore can be valuably used in privacy glass or a sunroof of a motor vehicle, or in glass used for construction.
US08551897B2 Inorganic fiber
Provided are inorganic fibers containing calcium and alumina as the major fiber components. According to certain embodiments, the inorganic fibers containing calcia and alumina are provided with a coating of a phosphorous containing compound on at least a portion of the fiber surfaces. Also provided are methods of preparing the coated and non-coated inorganic fibers and of thermally insulating articles using thermal insulation comprising the inorganic fibers.
US08551895B2 Nonwoven webs having improved barrier properties
A laminate is generally provided having alcohol repellency properties. In one particular embodiment, the laminate includes a meltblown web bonded to a spunbond web (e.g., a SM laminate, a SMS laminate, a SMMS laminate, etc.). A fluorinated polymeric coating is attached to the surface of the spunbond web (e.g., grafted). The fluorinated polymeric coating comprises a perfluoroalkyl(alkyl) (meth)acrylate monomer polymerized on the surface of the spunbond web via exposure to a low frequency energy source. The perfluoroalkyl(alkyl) (meth)acrylate monomer has a perfluoroalkyl side groups comprising —(CF2)z—F, where z is an integer from 1 to 6. The laminate has an alcohol repellency of greater than 80%.
US08551894B2 Ligand graft functionalized substrates
Polyethyleneimine and polyalkylene biguanide ligand functionalized substrates, methods of making ligand functionalized substrates, and methods of using functionalized substrates are disclosed.
US08551893B2 Semiconductor device and manufacturing method thereof
An object is to provide a semiconductor device of which a manufacturing process is not complicated and by which cost can be suppressed, by forming a thin film transistor using an oxide semiconductor film typified by zinc oxide, and a manufacturing method thereof. For the semiconductor device, a gate electrode is formed over a substrate; a gate insulating film is formed covering the gate electrode; an oxide semiconductor film is formed over the gate insulating film; and a first conductive film and a second conductive film are formed over the oxide semiconductor film. The oxide semiconductor film has at least a crystallized region in a channel region.
US08551890B2 Showerhead for CVD depositions
A CVD showerhead that includes a circular inner showerhead and at least one outer ring showerhead. At least two process gas delivery tubes are coupled to each showerhead. Also, a dual showerhead that includes a circular inner showerhead and at least one outer ring showerhead where each showerhead is coupled to oxygen plus a gas mixture of lead, zirconium, and titanium organometallics. A method of depositing a CVD thin film on a wafer. Also, a method of depositing a PZT thin film on a wafer.
US08551889B2 Manufacture method for photovoltaic module
In a manufacture method for a photovoltaic module, a plurality of strips of resin adhesive film having a desired width and unwound from a single feeding reel is simultaneously pasted on a solar cell. In particular, the manufacture method is implemented by performing the steps of: unwinding a resin adhesive film sheet from a reel on which the resin adhesive film sheet is wound; splitting the unwound resin adhesive film into two or more film strips in correspondence to lengths of wiring material to bond; pasting the strips of resin adhesive film on an electrode of the solar cell; and placing the individual lengths of wiring material on the electrode of the solar cell having the plural strips of resin adhesive film pasted thereon and thermally setting the resin adhesive film by heating so as to fix together the electrode of the solar cell and the wiring material.
US08551886B2 CMP process for processing STI on two distinct silicon planes
A method for semiconductor processing is provided wherein a workpiece having an underlying body and a plurality of features extending therefrom, is provided. A first set of the plurality of features extend from the underlying body to a first plane, and a second set of the plurality features extend from the underlying body to a second plane. A protection layer overlies each of the plurality of features and an isolation layer overlies the underlying body and protection layer, wherein the isolation has a non-uniform first oxide density associated therewith. The isolation layer anisotropically etched based on a predetermined pattern, and then isotropically etched, wherein a second oxide density of the isolation layer is substantially uniform across the workpiece. The predetermined pattern is based, at least in part, on a desired oxide density, a location and extension of the plurality of features to the first and second planes.
US08551883B2 Masking method
The invention relates to a method for masking a semiconductor substrate including the following steps: providing a planar semiconductor substrate having a first side and a second side lying opposite thereto, applying a mask to at least one of the sides, an extrusion printing method being used for applying the mask.
US08551882B2 Back-side contact formation
In one embodiment, a semiconductor is provided comprising a substrate and a plurality of wiring layers and dielectric layers formed on the substrate, the wiring layers implementing a circuit. The dielectric layers separate adjacent ones of the plurality of wiring layers. A first passivation layer is formed on the plurality of wiring layers. A first contact pad is formed in the layer and connected to the contact pad. A through silicon via (TSV) is formed through the substrate, the plurality of wiring and dielectric layers, and the passivation layer. The TSV is electrically connected to the wire formed on the passivation layer. The TSV is electrically isolated from the wiring layers except for the connection provided by the metal wire formed on the passivation layer.
US08551878B2 Metal interconnection method of semiconductor device
A metal interconnection method of a semiconductor device includes forming a copper layer on a semiconductor substrate and planarizing the copper layer. Two thermal treatments are performed at different temperatures between formation of the copper layer and planarization of the copper layer.
US08551872B2 Low series resistance transistor structure on silicon on insulator layer
A transistor structure includes a channel located in an extremely thin silicon on insulator (ETSOI) layer and disposed between a raised source and a raised drain, a gate structure having a gate conductor disposed over the channel and between the source and the drain, and a gate spacer layer disposed over the gate conductor. The raised source and the raised drain each have a facet that is upwardly sloping away from the gate structure. A lower portion of the source and a lower portion of the drain are separated from the channel by an extension region containing a dopant species diffused from a dopant-containing glass.
US08551871B2 Method of fabricating semiconductor device
A method of fabricating a semiconductor device according to one embodiment includes: exposing a surface of a semiconductor substrate to a halogen-containing gas that contains at least one of Si and Ge, the semiconductor substrate being provided with a member comprising an oxide and consisting mainly of Si; and exposing the surface of the semiconductor substrate to an atmosphere containing at least one of a Si-containing gas not containing halogen and a Ge-containing gas not containing halogen after starting exposure of the surface of the semiconductor substrate to the halogen-containing gas, thereby epitaxially growing a crystal film containing at least one of Si and Ge on the surface.
US08551864B2 Method of manufacturing semiconductor device
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device comprises the steps of forming a film on a main face of a semiconductor substrate having a plurality of device forming regions for forming semiconductor devices, the film having a coefficient of thermal expansion different from that of the semiconductor substrate and including a cutout on a region between the plurality of device forming regions; forming the semiconductor devices in the respective device forming regions by using the film; and dividing the semiconductor substrate into the respective device forming regions.
US08551861B2 Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same
A semiconductor device and a method for manufacturing the same are disclosed. A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device includes forming a trench for defining an active region over a semiconductor substrate, forming a doped region by implanting impurities into the trench, forming an oxide film in the trench by performing an oxidation process, forming a nitride film at inner sidewalls of the trench, and forming a device isolation film in the trench.
US08551860B2 Semiconductor devices having through electrodes and methods of fabricating the same
Provided are semiconductor devices having through electrodes and methods of fabricating the same. The method includes providing a substrate including top and bottom surfaces facing each other, forming a hole and a gap extending from the top surface of the substrate toward the bottom surface of the substrate, the gap surrounding the hole and being shallower than the hole, filling the hole with an insulating material, forming a metal interconnection line on the top surface of the substrate on the insulating material, recessing the bottom surface of the substrate to expose the insulating material, removing the insulating material to expose the metal interconnection line via the hole, filling the hole with a conductive material to form a through electrode connected to the metal interconnection line, recessing the bottom surface of the substrate again to expose the gap, and forming a lower insulating layer on the bottom surface of the substrate.
US08551858B2 Self-aligned SI rich nitride charge trap layer isolation for charge trap flash memory
A method for fabricating a memory device with U-shaped trap layers over rounded active region corners is disclosed. In the present invention, an STI process is performed before the charge-trapping layer is formed. Immediately after the STI process, the sharp corners of the active regions are exposed, making them available for rounding. Rounding the corners improves the performance characteristics of the memory device. Subsequent to the rounding process, a bottom oxide layer, nitride layer, and sacrificial top oxide layer are formed. An organic bottom antireflective coating applied to the charge trapping layer is planarized. Now the organic bottom antireflective coating, sacrificial top oxide layer, and nitride layer are etched, without etching the sacrificial top oxide layer and nitride layer over the active regions. After the etching the charge trapping layer has a cross-sectional U-shape appearance. U-shaped trap layer edges allow for increased packing density and integration while maintaining isolation between trap layers.
US08551856B2 Embedded capacitor and method of fabricating the same
Methods are provided for forming a capacitor. In one embodiment, a method comprises providing an insulator material layer over a substrate, etching at least one via in the insulator material layer and depositing a contact material fill in the at least one via to form a first set of contacts. The method further comprises etching the insulator material layer adjacent at least one contact of the first set of contacts to form at least one void, depositing a dielectric material layer over the at least one void and over the first set of contacts and depositing a contact material fill in the at least void to form a second set of contacts.
US08551852B2 Semiconductor memory device and method for manufacturing same
A semiconductor memory device includes a word line interconnect layer having a plurality of word lines extending in a word line direction and a bit line interconnect layer having a plurality of bit lines extending in a bit line direction alternately stacked on a silicon substrate. A variable resistance film is disposed between the word line and the bit line. A first pin diode extending in the word line direction is provided between the word line and the variable resistance film, and a second pin diode extending in the bit line direction is provided between the bit line and the variable resistance film. A region of an upper surface of the pin diode other than an immediately underlying region of the variable resistance film is located lower than the immediately underlying region.
US08551851B2 Titanium-based high-K dielectric films
This disclosure provides (a) methods of making an oxide layer (e.g., a dielectric layer) based on titanium oxide, to suppress the formation of anatase-phase titanium oxide and (b) related devices and structures. A metal-insulator-metal (“MIM”) stack is formed using an ozone pretreatment process of a bottom electrode (or other substrate) followed by an ALD process to form a TiO2 dielectric, rooted in the use of an amide-containing precursor. Following the ALD process, an oxidizing anneal process is applied in a manner is hot enough to heal defects in the TiO2 dielectric and reduce interface states between TiO2 and electrode; the anneal temperature is selected so as to not be so hot as to disrupt BEL surface roughness. Further process variants may include doping the titanium oxide, pedestal heating during the ALD process to 275-300 degrees Celsius, use of platinum or ruthenium for the BEL, and plural reagent pulses of ozone for each ALD process cycle. The process provides high deposition rates, and the resulting MIM structure has substantially no x-ray diffraction peaks associated with anatase-phase titanium oxide.
US08551850B2 Methods of forming a reversible resistance-switching metal-insulator-metal structure
A method of forming a reversible resistance-switching metal-insulator-metal structure is provided, the method including forming a first non-metallic conducting layer, forming a non-conducting layer above the first non-metallic conducting layer, forming a second non-metallic conducting layer above the non-conducting layer, etching the first non-metallic conducting layer, non-conducting layer and second non-metallic conducting layer to form a pillar, and disposing a carbon material layer about a sidewall of the pillar. Other aspects are also provided.
US08551844B1 Methods of forming semiconductor constructions
Some embodiments include methods in which first insulative material is formed across a memory region and a peripheral region of a substrate. An etch stop structure is formed to have a higher portion over the memory region than over the peripheral region. A second insulative material is formed to protect the lower portion of the etch stop structure, and the higher portion is removed. Subsequently, at least some of the first and second insulative materials are removed. Some embodiments include semiconductor constructions having a first region with first features, and a second region with second features. The first features are closer spaced than the second features. A first insulative material is over the second region and an insulative structure is over the first insulative material. The structure has a stem joined to a bench. The bench has an upper surface, and the stem extends to above the upper surface.
US08551841B2 IO ESD device and methods for forming the same
A method includes forming an ESD diode including performing an epitaxy growth to form an epitaxy region comprising silicon and substantially free from germanium. The epitaxy region is doped with a p-type impurity to form a p-type region, wherein the p-type region forms an anode of the ESD diode.
US08551840B2 Methods of forming phase-change memory devices and devices so formed
A method of forming can be provided by forming a metal silicide layer that includes a diffusion metal on a substrate. A native oxide layer can be formed on the metal silicide layer and forming a metal oxide layer by reacting the native oxide layer with the diffusion metal. A phase-change layer and an upper electrode can be formed on the metal oxide layer. A phase-change memory device can include a substrate and a conductive region on the substrate with a lower electrode on the conductive region, where the lower electrode can include a metal silicide layer on the conductive region and a metal silicon nitride layer having a resistivity of about 10 to about 100 times that of the metal silicide layer. A metal oxide layer can be located between the metal silicon nitride layer and the metal silicide layer, the metal oxide layer comprising a resistivity that is greater than that of the metal silicide layer and less than the resistivity of the metal silicon nitride layer. A phase-change layer and an upper electrode can be located on the lower electrode.
US08551830B2 Semiconductor integrated circuit switch matrix
There is provided a small-type semiconductor integrated circuit whose circuit area is small and whose wiring length is short. The semiconductor integrated circuit is constructed in a multi-layer structure and is provided with a first semiconductor layer, a first semiconductor layer transistor formed in the first semiconductor layer, a wiring layer which is deposited on the first semiconductor layer and in which metal wires are formed, a second semiconductor layer deposited on the wiring layer and a second semiconductor layer transistor formed in the second semiconductor layer. It is noted that insulation of a gate insulating film of the first semiconductor layer transistor is almost equal with that of a gate insulating film of the second semiconductor layer transistor and the gate insulating film of the second semiconductor layer transistor is formed by means of radical oxidation or radical nitridation.
US08551824B2 Method for manufacturing semiconductor device
In a transistor including an oxide semiconductor layer, an oxide insulating layer is formed so as to be in contact with the oxide semiconductor layer. Then, oxygen is introduced (added) to the oxide semiconductor layer through the oxide insulating layer, and heat treatment is performed. Through these steps of oxygen introduction and heat treatment, impurities such as hydrogen, moisture, a hydroxyl group, or hydride are intentionally removed from the oxide semiconductor layer, so that the oxide semiconductor layer is highly purified.
US08551820B1 Routable single layer substrate and semiconductor package including same
In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a routable substrate that may be used, for example, in relation to the manufacture of Dual and Quad Flat No-Lead (DFN/QFN) style semiconductor packages as a substrate or interposer of such packages. The method of fabricating the substrate effectively removes metal from the saw streets and provides a more stable surface structure for wire bonding. The substrate fabrication method also utilizes existing etching techniques which are implemented in a prescribed sequence to achieve no metal in the saw streets and to completely electrically isolated features. Further, the substrate fabrication method includes a molding step intended to replace pressure sensitive adhesive tapes.
US08551816B2 Direct edge connection for multi-chip integrated circuits
The present invention allows for direct chip-to-chip connections using the shortest possible signal path.
US08551815B2 Stack packages using reconstituted wafers
A stacked microelectronic unit is provided which has a top surface and a bottom surface remote from the top surface and a plurality of vertically stacked microelectronic elements therein, including at least one microelectronic element having a front face adjacent to the top surface and a rear face oriented towards the bottom surface. Each of the microelectronic elements has traces extending from contacts at the front face beyond edges of the microelectronic element. A dielectric layer contacts edges of the microelectronic elements and underlies the rear face of the at least one microelectronic element. Leads are connected to the traces extending along the dielectric layer. Unit contacts, exposed at the top surface, are connected to the leads.
US08551814B2 Method of fabricating a semiconductor device that limits damage to elements of the semiconductor device that are exposed during processing
A wafer structure (88) includes a device wafer (20) and a cap wafer (60). Semiconductor dies (22) on the device wafer (20) each include a microelectronic device (26) and terminal elements (28, 30). Barriers (36, 52) are positioned in inactive regions (32, 50) of the device wafer (20). The cap wafer (60) is coupled to the device wafer (20) and covers the semiconductor dies (22). Portions (72) of the cap wafer (60) are removed to expose the terminal elements (28, 30). The barriers (36, 52) may be taller than the elements (28, 30) and function to prevent the portions (72) from contacting the terminal elements (28, 30) when the portions (72) are removed. The wafer structure (88) is singulated to form multiple semiconductor devices (89), each device (89) including the microelectronic device (26) covered by a section of the cap wafer (60) and terminal elements (28, 30) exposed from the cap wafer (60).
US08551811B2 Composite dielectric material doped with rare earth metal oxide and manufacturing method thereof
A composite dielectric material doped with rare earth metal oxide and a manufacturing method thereof are provided. The composite dielectric material is doped with nano-crystalline rare metal oxide which is embedded in silicon dioxide glass matrix, and the composite dielectric material of the nano-crystalline rare metal oxide and the silicon dioxide glass matrix is synthesized by the manufacturing method using sol-gel route. The dielectric value of the glass composite dielectric material is greater than that of pure rare metal oxide or that of silicon dioxide. In presence of magnetic field, the dielectric value of the composite dielectric material is substantially enhanced compared with that of the composite dielectric material at zero field.
US08551808B2 Methods of patterning a substrate including multilayer antireflection coatings
Multi-layer antireflection coatings, devices including multi-layer antireflection coatings and methods of forming the same are disclosed. A block copolymer is applied to a substrate and self-assembled into parallel lamellae above a substrate. The block copolymer may optionally be allowed to self-assemble into a multitude of domains oriented either substantially parallel or substantially perpendicular to an underlying substrate.
US08551805B2 Methods of manufacturing phase-change memory devices
A phase-change memory device includes a word line on a substrate and a phase-change memory cell on the word line and comprising a phase-change material pattern. The device also includes a non-uniform conductivity layer pattern comprising a conductive region on the phase-change material pattern and a non-conductive region contiguous therewith. The device further includes a bit line on the conductive region of the non-uniform conductivity layer pattern. In some embodiments, the phase-change memory cell may further include a diode on the word line, a heating electrode on the diode and wherein the phase-change material layer is disposed on the heating electrode. An ohmic contact layer and a contact plug may be disposed between the diode and the heating electrode.
US08551804B2 Method of manufacturing optical component, optical component, method of manufacturing display device, and display device
A method and optical component prevent external light reflection and increase light extraction efficiency. In one example embodiment, an optical component is provided on a light extraction side of a light-emitting panel. After a shielding film shaped like a lattice or a mesh is formed on a transparent substrate, a resist film is formed, the resist film is irradiated with ultraviolet light UV from the back side of the substrate by using the shielding film as a mask, and development is carried out, so that an optical functional element is formed. The planar shape of the undersurface of the optical functional element is the same as the planar shape of the lattice or the mesh of the shielding film, and a positioning error between the optical functional element and the shielding film becomes extremely small.
US08551803B2 Solar battery module manufacturing method
Provided is a process of producing a solar battery module 1 including plural solar battery cells 4 sealed by a resin 5 between a transparent panel 2 of the light reception surface side and a back face panel 3, which is characterized by arranging plural solar battery cells 4 at a prescribed interval and mutually connecting them to each other by a conductor 8; arranging a first sealing resin sheet 12 substantially covering the entire surface of the transparent panel 2 of the light reception surface side between the transparent panel 2 of the light reception surface side and the solar battery cells 4; arranging a second sealing resin sheet 10 substantially covering the entire surface of the back face panel 3 between the back face panel 3 and the solar battery cells 4; arranging sealing resin sheet pieces 18, 19 which are thicker than the solar battery cells 4 at a space 9 between the solar battery cells 4 so as to be sandwiched by the first sealing resin sheet 12 and the second sealing resin sheet 10; discharging air between the transparent panel 2 of the light reception surface side and the back face panel 3; and heating the resin 5 for melting and then cooling down it for sealing. According to this, when the plural solar battery cells 4 are arranged and sealed by the resin 5, breakage of the solar battery cells 4 can be prevented from occurring.
US08551795B2 Mask
Disclosed is a mask which can be used for forming a pattern on a substrate in a deposition apparatus, and a method for manufacturing a display device using the same. The mask includes a mask pattern and a frame. The mask has a tapered shape where the inner surface of the frame tapers in a direction from an upper end to a lower end. A thin film pattern is formed on a substrate using the mask pattern of the mask. The frame supports an outer of the mask pattern, and includes an inclined plane which tapers in an inner direction where the mask pattern is disposed.
US08551792B2 Dicing a semiconductor wafer
A method of dicing a semiconductor wafer comprises scribing at least one dielectric layer along dice lanes to remove material from a surface of the wafer using a laser with a pulse-width between 1 picosecond and 1000 picoseconds and with a repetition frequency corresponding to times between pulses shorter than a thermal relaxation time of the material to be scribed. The wafer is then diced through a metal layer and at least partially through a substrate of the semiconductor wafer.
US08551789B2 Frizzled-binding agents and their use in screening for WNT inhibitors
Novel anti-cancer agents, including, but not limited to, antibodies and other polypeptides, that bind to human frizzled receptors are provided. Novel epitopes within the human frizzled receptors which are suitable as targets for anti-cancer agents are also identified. Methods of using the agents or antibodies, such as methods of using the agents or antibodies to inhibit Wnt signaling and/or inhibit tumor growth are further provided. Screening methods are also provided.
US08551788B2 Method for selecting pipetting parameters for a liquid
A method of selecting pipetting parameters of a pipetting device for dispensing or pipetting a specific volume of a liquid sample, includes a fluid column of a fluid chamber of the pipetting device set into oscillation at the beginning of the aspiration, the pressure is monitored with the pressure transducer in the fluid chamber, and the pressure changes generated during aspiration into measuring signals are recorded. These measuring signals are processed by a computer or micro-processor and reproduced as a pressure curve, which is characteristic for the fluid column with the aspirated liquid sample, and which is compared with known pressure curves. Based on this comparison, pipetting parameters of the pipetting device are selected for the dispense or for pipetting a specific volume of the liquid sample. Selectable pipetting parameters include a speed of a movement of a pump piston of the pipetting device.
US08551786B2 Systems and methods for enhancing fluorescent detection of target molecules in a test sample
Systems and methods for enhancing fluorescent detection of target molecules in a test sample are for use with an irradiating device. First fluorophores are provided for absorption of EMF radiation, and emission of a first signal. Second fluorophores are provided for partial absorption of the first signal, and emission of a second signal distinguishable from the first signal. The fluorophores are combined with the test sample, and secured to the target molecules and relative to one another. After the first fluorophores receive the EMF radiation from the irradiating device, the first signal is detected, together with the second spectral signal if the target molecules are present in the test sample.
US08551785B2 Dual angle radiation scanning of objects
In one example, a method of examining contents of an object is disclosed comprising scanning an object by first and second radiation beams at least first and second angles, detecting radiation at the first and second angles, and determining whether the object at least potentially comprises high atomic number material, which may be nuclear material or shielding material, based, at least in part, on the detected radiation. In one example, the detected radiation at both angles must be indicative of a region of high atomic number material by the presence of corresponding high density regions, in order for it to be concluded that high atomic number material that may be nuclear material may be present. The determination may be further based on the size of a high density region in one of the images. Systems are also disclosed.
US08551782B2 Methods for promoting HSC engraftment
The present invention provides for compositions and methods for modulating hematopoetic stem cell populations by using HCS modulators, which are agents that either increase HSC numbers or decrease HSC numbers as desired by a particular indication. For example, HSC modulators found to increase HSC numbers include prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and agents that stimulate the PGE2 pathway. Conversely, HSC modulators that prevent PGE2 synthesis decrease HSC numbers. HCS modulators may be used in vitro, in vivo, or ex vivo.
US08551779B2 DDR1-mediated cell purification of pancreatic endocrine cells through their progenitors
The invention relates to a method of identifying, obtaining and/or quantifying a culture of pancreatic cells selected from the group consisting of ductal/endocrine progenitor cells, endocrine progenitor cells, early endocrine cells, and fully differentiated endocrine cells. Also contemplated is a method of expanding the numbers of such cells as well as sorting such cells. The invention further relates to a selective cell surface marker, DDR1, that permits the selection of a unique subset of cells with pancreatic endocrine progenitor phenotype. Furthermore, the invention relates to isolated cells selected from such cells and compositions thereof.
US08551777B2 In vitro tumor angiogenesis model
Provided is a method of inducing tubulogenesis in normal endothelial cells comprising co-culturing the normal endothelial cells with tumor cells and forming tubules from the normal endothelial cells.
US08551776B2 Estrogen receptors and methods of use
The present invention provides isolated polypeptides having an amino acid sequence having at least 70% identity to SEQ ID NO:20, wherein the polypeptide has ER-α36 activity. The invention further provides methods for identifying agents that bind to such polypeptides, methods for detecting such polypeptides, and methods for altering the activity of such polypeptides. Also provided are antibodies that specifically bind to an amino acid sequence depicted at SEQ ID NO:1, or an immunogenic fragment thereof, and methods for making and using such antibodies.
US08551775B2 Subpopulations of spore-like cells and uses thereof
Subpopulations of spore-like cells expressing specific cell surface and gene expression markers are provided. In one embodiment, the cells express at least one cell surface or gene expression marker selected from the group consisting of Oct4, nanog, Zfp296, cripto, Gdf3, UtF1, Ecat1, Esg1, Sox2, Pax6, nestin, SCA-1, CD29, CD34, CD90, B1 integrin, cKit, SP-C, CC10, SF1, DAX1, and SCG10. Also provided are methods for purifying a subpopulation of spore-like cells of interest from a population of spore-like cells, and methods for inducing differentiation of the isolated spore-like cells into cells of endodermal, mesodermal or ectodermal origin. The spore-like cells can be used to generate cells originating from all three germ layers and can be used to treat a patient who has a deficiency of functional cells in any of a wide variety of tissues, including the retina, intestine, bladder, kidney, liver, lung, nervous system, or endocrine system.
US08551774B2 Expression vectors containing a truncated epstein barr nuclear antigen 1 lacking the Gly-Gly-Ala domain for enhanced transient gene expression
This invention relates to the unexpected discovery that nucleotide coding sequences coding for a truncated Epstein Barr Nuclear Antigen 1 (EBNA1t) protein (lacking the Gly-Gly-Ala domain), when in cells of mammalian origin, are associated with improved growth and increased transient gene expression when compared with cells expressing a complete EBNA1 coding sequence. The expression of EBNA1t also appear to be more stable over time.
US08551769B2 Method and apparatus for cultivation of algae and cyanobacteria
The invention relates to a method of cultivation of algae or cyanobacteria in the presence of a luminous material that converts light of a first wavelength to a second wavelength more suitable for use in photosynthesis by the algae or cyanobacteria, and apparatus for performing the method. In one embodiment the apparatus (50) is of flexible plastic with fluorescent light concentrator or light guide (76) and perforated pipe (56) for bubbling carbon dioxide through the culture. The algae or cyanobacteria may be used to produce biofuels.
US08551764B2 Devices for the detection of the presence and/or activity of proteases in biological samples
The subject invention provides novel devices and methods for the detection of the presence and/or activity of proteases in biological samples.
US08551762B2 System and apparatus for feeding, solubilizing, growing and discharging a biological material
Apparatus useful for feeding a particulate starter material comprising nutrient and bacteria to a mixing tank, for solubilizing the starter material inside the mixing tank, for promoting growth of the bacteria and for discharging an aqueous slurry comprising the bacteria from the mixing tank. The apparatus preferably has a gravity-flow feeder and discharge port, does not require a pump, and comprises disposable parts.
US08551759B2 Oligomer probe array and method of producing the same
An oligomer probe array having improved reaction yield is provided. The oligomer probe array includes a substrate, an immobilization layer on the substrate, a plurality of nano particles coupled with a surface of the immobilization layer, and a plurality of oligomer probes coupled with surfaces of the nano particles.
US08551756B2 Avian influenza chimeric VLPS
This invention discloses a method of increasing production of virus-like particles comprising expressing an avian influenza matrix protein. The invention also comprises methods of making and using said VLPs.
US08551753B2 Method of removing nucleic acid contamination in reverse transcription and amplification reactions
The invention provides methods of removing nucleic acid contamination from reverse transcription reactions and hot-start PCR, wherein said hot-start PCR is a barrier hot-start PCR set up and/or involves a hot-start DNA polymerase, which methods comprise use of a DNase that is substantially irreversibly inactivated by heating at a temperature of about 50° C. for 5 minutes, and that is substantially specific for double stranded DNA. The invention further provides a DNase that is substantially irreversibly inactivated by heating at a temperature of about 50° C. for 5 minutes, and that is substantially specific for double stranded DNA, nucleic acids encoding said DNase and kits or compositions comprising said DNase or said nucleic acid.
US08551749B2 Device including bone cage and method for treatment of disease in a subject
Devices, methods, and systems are described for controlling pathogenic condition or disease in a subject. Devices are described that include one or more bone cages. The device including one or more bone cages can be configured to include one or more immunogens and one or more adjuvants. The device including one or more bone cages can be configured to, and/or structured to at least partially or completely surround one or more cells or tissues that produce one or more immunogens and/or one or more adjuvants. The device is useful in a method for treating a pathogenic condition or disease in the subject.
US08551744B2 Method of preparing a fatty acid composition
The present invention provides a fatty acid composition obtained by culturing a host which is transformed with a recombinant vector comprising a nucleic acid of SEQ ID NO: 1 or a nucleic acid encoding a protein having the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 2 or a mutant functionally equivalent to the nucleic acid. The present invention also provides a method of making such a fatty acid composition.
US08551741B2 Method for producing an L-amino acid
An L-amino acid is produced by culturing a bacterium of the Enterobacteriaceae family which has an L-amino acid-producing ability in a medium containing fatty acids as the carbon source, particularly fatty acids which have been subjected to emulsification or homogenization, to thereby produce and accumulate the L-amino acid in a culture medium; and collecting the L-amino acid from the culture medium.
US08551733B2 Production of oligoclonal mixtures of immunoglobulins in single cells
The present invention provides methods to produce mixtures of exogenous proteins in single cells. Preferably said exogenous proteins are heteromeric and multimeric proteins, such as immunoglobulins. The method enables the controlled expression of proteins, thereby allowing the correct formation and assembly of multimeric proteins, such as immunoglobulins.
US08551729B2 Mutants of Lactobacillus casei defective in carbon catabolism regulation
The invention relates to the use of mutants of L. casei having at least a mutation impairing the regulation of a carbon catabolite repression (CCR) mechanism involving the PTS protein HPr, for the preparation of a food product.The use of said mutants allows for instance to impart to said food products an improved texture and flavor, and/or a higher content in aroma compounds.
US08551727B2 Gold nanoparticle based protease imaging probes and use thereof
Disclosed are a metal nanoparticle onto which a peptide substrate specifically degraded by protease and fluorophore are chemically modified for selectively imaging protease expressed in cell and in tissue in a human body, and the use thereof. Also, a quantitative analysis method of protease using the metal nanoparticle, a cell imaging method and a drug screening method of inhibiting a protease overexpression are provided. In detail, the present invention is directed to a metal nanoparticle having a peptide substrate and fluorophore coupled thereto, the peptide substrate and the fluorophore being specifically degraded by due to a protease activated in various ways in cell and in a human body to exhibit fluorescence. Hence, the metal nanoparticle can be used to rapidly screen activation and inhibition of the protease in the imaging manner. Also, the metal nanoparticle is capable of being selectively absorbed into a cell and a tissue so as to be possibly used as a sensor for real-time cell imaging and early diagnosis of non-invasive diseases.
US08551722B2 Time-course measurement of enzymatic activity corrected for impacts of disturbances relating to the reaction of the enzyme with a substrate
A method of determining the course of enzyme activity that is variable in time, wherein the activity is probed by conversion of a substrate of the enzyme, includes, in a selected test set up and for a determined substrate of the enzyme, determining the velocity of signal production (dFdiag/dt) resulting from a time curve of the signal (Fdiao=f(A)) obtained from splitting the substrate when it is contacted with a determined initially fixed concentration of the enzyme (E) and providing a “diagnostic plot” with the values of (dFdiag/dt) against the signal (Fdiag) and determining whether the diagnostic plot is either a straight line or a parabola and in the same test conditions, for a given test sample, determining the signal production (Fexp) resulting from splitting the substrate by the enzyme generating in and/or disappearing from the sample and providing the time curve of signal Fexp=f(t); and transforming the obtained experimental value of the signal (Fexp) into an ideal value (Ftransf).
US08551718B2 Functional assay for 5-HT2A, histamine H1 or adrenergic alpha 1B receptors
The present invention provides novel functional assay for 5-HT2A, histamine H1 or adrenergic alpha 1b receptors, by measuring intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels utilizing reporter gene driven cell based assay. The novel assay provides both binding affinity as well as mode of action of compounds in a single set. The novel assay of the invention is useful in identification of compounds acting through 5-HT2A, histamine H1 or adrenergic alpha 1b receptors. Furthermore, the assay offers utility in categorizing compounds in to agonist, partial agonist, inverse agonist and antagonist classes. The novel assay can be scaled up to any high throughput format.
US08551715B2 Methods for identifying and isolating cells expressing a polypeptide
The invention relates to novel polypeptides and cells comprising the polypeptides. The polypeptides and cells are used in methods to identify and/or isolate cells producing a protein with specific biological functions. In particular, the methods may be used for identifying, selecting, and isolating cells producing antigen-specific monoclonal antibodies.
US08551707B2 Nucleic acid-based tests for RhD typing, gender determination and nucleic acid quantification
The invention in part provides nucleic acid-based assays, which are particularly useful for non-invasive prenatal testing. The invention in part provides compositions and methods for RhD typing, detecting the presence of fetal nucleic in a sample, determining the relative amount of fetal nucleic acid in a sample and determining the sex of a fetus, wherein each of the assays may be performed alone or in combination.
US08551705B2 Use of haploid genomes for genetic diagnosis, modification and multiplication
Methods for propagating haploid genomes of male or female origina and genetic screening and modification thereof are provided. These haploid genomes may be used to produce haploid embryos, and embryonic stem-like cells and differentiated cells. Also, these haploid genomes and cells containing, may be used as nuclear transfer donors to produce diploid nuclear transfer units. These diploid NT units e.g., human NT units, may be used to obtain pluripotent cells and differentiated cells and tissues.
US08551694B2 Isolation and use of ryanodine receptors
The genes encoding ryanodine receptor homologs have been characterized from multiple insect families. The genes and their corresponding polypeptides have a number of uses including but not limited to the development of screens to identify insecticidally active compounds. Methods are outlined for overcoming toxic effects of expressing recombinant proteins in host cells.
US08551688B2 Photosensitive resin laminate and thermal processing of the same
A method of developing a photocurable printing blank to produce a relief pattern comprising a plurality of relief dots. The photocurable printing blank comprises a backing layer having at least one photocurable layer disposed thereon, a barrier layer disposed on the at least one photocurable layer, and a laser ablatable mask layer disposed on top of the barrier layer. The method includes the steps of (1) imaging the at least one photocurable layer by ablating the laser ablatable mask layer to create the relief pattern on the photocurable printing blank the printing blank to actinic radiation through the barrier layer and mask layer to one or more sources of actinic radiation to selectively crosslink and cure portions of the at least one photocurable layer, wherein the at least one photocurable layer is crosslinked and cured in the portions not covered by the mask layer, thereby creating the relief pattern; (3) developing the printing blank to remove the barrier layer, the laser ablated mask layer and uncured portions of the photocurable layer and reveal the relief pattern. The presence of the barrier layer produces printing dots having desired characteristics. The method can also be used with an analog platemaking process that uses a negative instead of an ablatable mask layer.
US08551686B2 Antireflective composition for photoresists
The invention relates to an antireflective coating composition for a photoresist layer comprising a polymer, a crosslinking agent and an acid generator, where the polymer comprises at least one unit of structure 1, where, X is a linking moiety selected from a nonaromatic (A) moiety, aromatic (P) moiety and mixture thereof, R′ is a group of structure (2), R″ is independently selected from hydrogen, a moiety of structure (2), Z and W—OH, where Z is a (C1-C20) hydrocarbyl moiety and W is a (C1-C20) hydrocarbylene linking moiety, and, Y′ is independently a (C1-C20) hydrocarbylene linking moiety, where structure (2) is where R1 and R2 are independently selected from H and C1-C4alkyl and L is an organic hydrocarbyl group. The invention further relates to a process for imaging the antireflective coating composition.
US08551683B2 Illumination sources and subjects having distinctly matched and mismatched narrow spectral bands
A light source is configured to emit narrow peaks at discrete spectral bands, especially primary color wavelengths, added to simulate the effect of a broadband light source. A subject is provided with a pigment, examples being certain rare earth lanthanides, with a strong absorption peak at a corresponding narrow spectral band. The pigment has a nominal hue under true broadband light. When illuminated by the narrow band source, the absorption peak eliminates the contribution of one of the primary colors, producing a distinct shift in hue of the pigmented subject. The change in hue cannot be anticipated from the appearance of illuminated subjects that lack the pigment, which remain normal. The narrow absorption peak is not noticeable under unmatched light sources or true broadband light sources, e.g., sunlight. The hue shift effect is useful for security authentication, informational and decorative applications.
US08551680B2 Toner
Toner characterized in that assuming that the glass transition point of the toner measured by a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) is represented by T1(° C.), in a micro compression test at T1−10 (° C.), when a load from 0.00N (0.00 mgf) to 7.85×10−4 N (80.00 mgf) is applied at the intervals of 7.85×10−7 N (0.08 mgf) to a single particle of the toner, the strain value A80a(%) at 7.85×10−4 N is 35.0 to 75.0%; and in a load (x-axis)-strain (y-axis) curve obtained by the micro compression test, the ratio of an area (S1a) of a specific region, relative to an area (S2a) of a specific region, (S1a/S2a), is 1.5 to 3.5.
US08551679B2 Toner, method of preparing the same, method of forming images using the toner and image forming device using the toner
A toner including a plurality of fine particles includes a core including first latex particles, a wax and a pigment, or a first latex particle-wax complex and a pigment, and a first shell layer including second latex particles and covering at least a portion of the surface of the core, a method of preparing the toner, a method of forming images using the toner, and an image forming device including a toner transferring unit. The toner can have improved fixing and charging properties, preserving properties at a high temperature and high humidity, glossness and anti-offset properties by reducing a domain size of a wax dispersed in the toner and improving dispersibility of the wax.
US08551677B2 Lithographic CD correction by second exposure
Correction of critical dimension variation is accomplished with a second exposure, e.g. using a second reticle. Embodiments include exposing a first wafer with a first dose using a first reticle, having a pattern corresponding to a target pattern for a wafer, identifying CD variations between the exposed wafer and the target pattern for different features in the target pattern, exposing a second wafer with the first reticle using a second dose, less than or equal to the first dose, and correcting the CD variations by applying an additional exposure of the second wafer. Embodiments further include using one or more additional exposures to prevent printing unwanted structures on the reticle or to deliberately vary the sizes of selected structures on the wafer for development purposes.
US08551676B2 Pigment-dispersed composition, curable composition, and color filter and production method thereof
There are provided a pigment-dispersed composition comprising at least a resin having a pendant group containing a nitrogen-containing heterocyclic ring and an ethylenic unsaturated double bond in the main chain skeleton, a pigment, and a solvent, and a curable composition using this, a color filter having a colored pattern formed from the curable composition, and a production method thereof.
US08551670B2 Electrochemical device comprising composite bipolar plate and method of using the same
An electrochemical device and methods of using the same. In one embodiment, the electrochemical device may be used as a fuel cell and/or as an electrolyzer and includes a membrane electrode assembly (MEA), an anodic gas diffusion medium in contact with the anode of the MEA, a cathodic gas diffusion medium in contact with the cathode, a first bipolar plate in contact with the anodic gas diffusion medium, and a second bipolar plate in contact with the cathodic gas diffusion medium. Each of the bipolar plates includes an electrically-conductive, chemically-inert, non-porous, liquid-permeable, substantially gas-impermeable membrane in contact with its respective gas diffusion medium, as well as a fluid chamber and a non-porous an electrically-conductive plate.
US08551663B2 Power generator with additional hydrogen storage
A power generator includes a hydrogen producing fuel and a hydrogen storage element. A fuel cell having a proton exchange membrane separates the hydrogen producing fuel from ambient. A valve is positioned between the hydrogen storage element and the hydrogen producing fuel and the fuel cell. Hydrogen is provided to the fuel cell from the hydrogen storage element if demand for electricity exceeds the hydrogen producing capacity of the hydrogen producing fuel.
US08551658B2 Process for producing lithium-containing composite oxide
To provide a process for a lithium-containing composite oxide for a positive electrode for a lithium secondary battery, which has a large volume capacity density and high safety, and is excellent in the charge and discharge cyclic durability and low temperature characteristics.A process for producing a lithium-containing composite oxide represented by the formula LipNxMyOzFa (wherein N is at least one element selected from the group consisting of Co, Mn and Ni, M is at least one element selected from the group consisting of Al, alkaline earth metal elements and transition metal elements other than N, 0.9≦p≦1.2, 0.95≦x≦2.00, 0
US08551654B2 Secondary batteries with treated bentonite cathodes
Provided herein is an electrochemical cell for a secondary battery, which includes a positive electrode having an active intercalation cathode material of treated bentonite; a negative electrode material having an active anode material containing one of magnesium and sodium; an electrolyte positioned in contact with at least one of the positive electrode and the negative electrode; wherein, when the active anode material contains magnesium, the electrolyte is a solid gel polymeric electrolyte; and wherein, when the active anode material is sodium, the electrolyte is a salt electrolyte, both the anode material and the electrolyte are molten at the operating temperature of the battery, and the cell further comprises a beta alumina solid electrolyte separator between the negative electrode and the electrolyte.
US08551653B2 Secondary battery anode material with selenium
Disclosed herein is a composite material for use as an anode for Li-ion batteries and its preparation method and use. The composite material comprises the components represented by the following formula: Ma1-Xa2—Sed1—Zd2—Cc, in which, M represents one or more selected from Sn, Al, Pb, Sb, Si and Bi; X represents one or more selected from Cu, V, Co, Ti, Mo, Mg, W and Zn; Z represents Si and/or Ge; and a1, a2, d1, d2 and c represent the weight ratio of M, X, Se, Z and C to the total amount of M, X, Se, Z and C, respectively, wherein a1+a2 is equal to 0.4-0.7, d1+d2 is equal to 0.05-0.6, c is equal to 0.01-0.25, d2/d1 ranges from 0 to 1/1.4, and a2/a1 ranges from 0 to 1/1.5.
US08551652B2 Electricity storage material and electricity storage device
An electricity storage material according to the present invention contains a copolymer compound of first units and second units, each first unit having a side chain which is an oxidation-reduction site having a it conjugate electron cloud and being of a structure represented by general formula (1) below, and each second unit having no oxidation-reduction reaction site as a side chain. In general formula (1), X1 to X4 are, independently, a sulfur atom, an oxygen atom, a selenium atom, or a tellurium atom; R1 and R2 are, independently, an acyclic or cyclic aliphatic group including at least one kind selected from the group consisting of a carbon atom, an oxygen atom, a nitrogen atom, a sulfur atom, a silicon atom, a phosphorus atom, and a boron atom, each including at least one or more double bonds; and one of R1 and R2 includes a bonding hand for binding to another portion which is a main chain or a side chain of the copolymer compound.
US08551651B2 Secondary cell having negative electrode base member
The present invention aims to realize a battery having high output voltage, high energy density and excellent charge and discharge cycle characteristics through a constitution different from those of conventional batteries. Specifically, one of the following negative electrode base members is used as a negative electrode base member for lithium ion secondary batteries: a negative electrode base member wherein a metal film is formed on a support having an organic film; such a negative electrode base member wherein the surface layer of the organic film is covered with a metal oxide film; a negative electrode base member wherein a metal film is formed on a support having a composite film formed from a composite film-forming material containing an organic component and an inorganic component; and a negative electrode base member wherein a silica coating is formed, on a support having a photoresist pattern, from a silica film-forming coating liquid and a metal film is formed on the support after removing the photoresist pattern.
US08551648B2 Electrode structure and battery device manufacturing method
An electrode is provided with a metal terminal extending from a battery module main body, a bolt which has an expanded section configuring a retaining section at a rear end portion and penetrates the metal terminal upward, and an insulating body which insulates the metal terminal and the battery module case one from the other. The insulating body is provided with a drop preventing section which abuts at least a lower surface of the expanded section of the bolt and prevents the bolt from dropping from the metal terminal.
US08551643B2 Battery pack
A battery pack includes a battery housing, a battery cell having a tubular negative electrode having an opening part at one end and a positive electrode fixed to the negative electrode in such a way as to close the opening part, the battery cell being housed in the battery housing, and a protrusion disposed between the battery cell and the inner wall of the battery housing in an area other than an area where the positive electrode and the negative electrode of the battery cell are fixed.
US08551639B2 Battery pack with waterproof and heat-dissipating case
A battery pack including a core pack having a number of battery cells; a waterproof and heat-dissipating case formed of a flexible material that surrounds the core pack; and wiring that is electrically connected to the core pack and is drawn out of the waterproof and heat-dissipating case. A waterproof structure that prevents water penetration is formed in a portion of the waterproof and heat-dissipating case from where the wiring is drawn. Accordingly, water from the outside is effectively prevented from entering the battery pack and heat of the battery cells may be effectively dissipated out of the battery pack.
US08551637B2 Membranes and electrochemical cells incorporating such membranes
One aspect of the invention provides an ion-conducting membrane comprising an ion-conducting region and a non-ion-conducting region. The ion-conducting region is formed by a plurality of ion-conducting passageways that extend through the membrane. The passageways are filled with ion-conducting material and may be surrounded by non-ion conducting material. The membrane may comprise a substrate of non-ion-conducting material that is penetrated by openings, each opening providing a corresponding one of the passageways.
US08551636B2 Describing a temperature-control request in one byte
A plurality of types of heat-treatment requests are described in a signal in a single byte.
US08551634B2 Computer enclosure with battery holding structure
A computer enclosure includes a frame portion and a battery holding structure. The frame portion defines a battery receiving groove for receiving a battery, a first sliding groove and a second sliding groove communicating with the battery receiving groove. The battery holding structure includes a first locking member movably received in the first sliding groove, a second locking member movably received in the second sliding groove, and a spring. The first locking member includes a first latching block. The second locking member includes a second latching block. The spring is compressed between the second locking member and an inner surface of the second sliding groove and configured to provide a force to push the second latching block into the battery receiving groove. The first and second latching members can be pushed into the battery receiving groove to cooperatively latch the battery in the battery receiving groove.
US08551629B2 Photoelectromethanogenic microbial fuel cell for co-generation of electricity and methane from carbon dioxide
A photoelectromethanogenic microbial fuel cell apparatus for processing a carbon dioxide flow into electricity and methane. The apparatus comprises: (a) a photosynthetic microbial fuel half-cell component having an electron-conductive anode and a photosynthetic microbial culture for converting light and water into oxygen, protons and electrons; (b) an electromethanogenic microbial fuel half-cell component having an electron-conductive cathode and a methanogenic microbial culture for converting a flow of carbon dioxide into methane using electrons and protons produced in the photosynthetic microbial fuel half-cell; (c) an electrical coupling interconnecting the two microbial fuel half-cells; and (d) an ionic coupling with an ionic separator interconnecting the two microbial fuel half-cells for selectively transporting ions between the microbial fuel half-cell components. A photobiological integrated carbon capture and recycle technology comprising a photoelectromethanogenic microbial fuel cell apparatus for converting carbon dioxide and water vapor captured from gas streams from a gas-emitting facility, into electricity and methane.
US08551628B2 Composite material, high-frequency circuit substrate made therefrom and making method thereof
A composite material, a high-frequency circuit substrate made from the composite material, and a method of making the high-frequency circuit substrate. The composite material includes: a thermosetting composition including a butadiene styrene copolymer resin with a molecular weight less than 11,000 containing more than 60 percent of vinyl, a polybutadiene resin with polarity groups containing more than 60 percent vinyl, and a maleic anhydride grafted polybutadiene styrene copolymer with a molecular weight of more than 50,000; a fiberglass cloth; a powder filler; and a cure initiator. The composite material permits easy manufacture of the prepreg and high bonding of the copper foil. The high-frequency circuit substrate made from the composite material has low dielectric constant, low dielectric loss tangent, and excellent heat resistance, and is convenient for the processing operation. The composite material is suitable for making the circuit substrate.
US08551627B2 Magnetic disk and method of manufacturing the same
This invention provides a magnetic disk which can satisfactorily suppress the elution of internal components from an end face of a magnetic disk, and corrosion damage. The magnetic disk comprises a disk substrate, and a thin film including a magnetic layer, a carbon-based protective layer, and a lubricating layer provided in that order on the disk substrate. The main surface and the end face of the magnetic disk are covered with the carbonaceous protective layer. The carbon-based protective layer contains nitrogen at a part adjacent to the lubricating layer. The content of nitrogen atoms relative to the content of carbon atoms in the protective layer formed on the end face is equal to or more than the content of nitrogen atoms relative to the content of carbon atoms in the protective layer formed on the main surface.
US08551626B2 CCP-CPP magnetoresistive reader with high GMR value
A magnetoresistive device having a high giant magnetoresistance (GMR) value and a moderate low resistance area product (RA) includes a first magnetic layer, a second magnetic layer, and a current confined path (CCP) spacer layer positioned between the first magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer. The spacer layer includes copper current confined paths extending between the first magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer in a matrix of magnesium oxide. The spacer layer is formed by a mixture copper and magnesium oxide, which is heattreated to form the copper current confined paths within the magnesium oxide matrix.
US08551625B2 Derivative with heteroaromatic ring, and light-emitting element, light-emitting device, lighting device, and electronic device using derivative with heteroaromatic ring
A derivative with a heteroaromatic ring represented by General Formula (G1) is provided. R11 to R20 in the formula independently represent a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or an aryl group having 6 to 10 carbon atoms in a ring. J represents a substituted or unsubstituted arylene group having 6 to 12 carbon atoms in a ring. Note that α and β may be bonded to each other to form a carbazole skeleton. Het is a substituent represented by General Formula (S1-1) or (S1-2). In General Formulae (S1-1) and (S1-2), Ar1 to Ar4 are independently a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group having 6 to 10 carbon atoms in a ring. R1 is a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or an aryl group having 6 to 10 carbon atoms in a ring.
US08551616B2 Adhesive compositions with multiple tackifiers
Adhesive compositions and articles that contain these adhesive compositions are described. More particularly, the adhesive compositions include (a) a block copolymer prepared from monoethylenically unsaturated monomers and (b) a tackifier mixture. The adhesives compositions can be adhered to many substrates including those having a non-polar surface.
US08551612B2 Polarizing plate, manufacturing method thereof, optical film and image display
A polarizing plate of the present invention includes a polyvinyl alcohol-based polarizer; and transparent protective films provided on both sides of the polarizer with an adhesive layer interposed between the polarizer and each transparent protective film, wherein the transparent protective film on one side comprises a lactone ring structure-containing (meth)acrylic resin and has an in-plane retardation of less than 40 nm and a thickness direction retardation of less than 80 nm, and the transparent protective film on the other side is a retardation plate that comprises a cellulose ester and satisfies the relation: nx>ny>nz, wherein nx is a refractive index in an X-axis direction where the in-plane refractive index is maximum, ny is a refractive index in a Y-axis direction perpendicular to the X-axis, and nz is a refractive index in a Z-axis direction corresponding to the thickness direction. The polarizing plate can satisfy durability and display uniformity (unevenness).
US08551602B2 Sport-technical layer for use in an artificial lawn system, as well as such an artificial lawn system
The invention relates to a sport-technical layer for use in an artificial lawn system in particular intended for sports fields, which artificial lawn system is built up at least of a substrate to which artificial grass fibres are attached as well as the sport-technical layer extending under said substrate, which sport-technical layer comprises at least one damping sublayer made of a synthetic foam, which damping sublayer made of a synthetic foam is built up of an essentially rigid flat plate, which plate is provided with flatness-enhancing means. The invention further relates to an artificial lawn system provided with such a sport-technical layer. According to the invention, the sport-technical layer is to that end characterised in that said flatness-enhancing means comprise at least one first slot assembly of at least two closely spaced slots formed in a respective upper surface or bottom surface of the plate, which slots extend in a first direction of the plate. As a result, the sport-technical layer is constructionally guaranteed to be a flat layer not exhibiting any warped or overlapping portions. On the one hand this leads to improved functional characteristics of the artificial lawn system to be ultimately constructed, but in addition this prevents the unnecessary work and expenses involved in repairing a non-level sport-technical layer, which currently takes place with the artificial lawn system according to the prior art.
US08551601B2 Stone, metal and tar laminate for exterior cladding
An exterior cladding that combines the benefits of stone, metal and tar in a laminate form that makes the most with the least expensive forms of each of these three base materials. A construction laminate having an asphaltic core body covered with a metallic facing on a top side and part of a bottom side. A granular coating is applied to the metallic facing on the top side and front edge. The laminate is useful as exterior cladding such as a roofing shingle, siding etc. . . . and is durable and easy to install.
US08551598B1 Armoring panel for resisting edge impact penetrations by ballistic projectiles
An armoring panel for resisting edge impact penetrations by ballistic projectiles, the armoring panel including a strata having an outer stratum, an inner stratum, and a plurality of intermediate stratums, each stratum among the plurality of intermediate stratums being composed of ballistic fibers, having a lateral end, and having an oppositely lateral extension; at least a first durable sheet having an outer oppositely lateral extension, an inner oppositely lateral extension, and a delamination resisting tie section which spans between lateral ends of the outer and inner oppositely lateral extensions and laterally overlies the intermediate stratums' lateral ends, the outer stratum including the at least first durable sheet's outer oppositely lateral extension, and the inner stratum including the at least first durable sheet's inner oppositely lateral extension; and a bonding matrix interconnecting the strata's stratums.
US08551597B2 Airflow pad
An airflow pad is disclosed that includes first and second external facings of paper material extending between edge portions of the panel and having interior portions disposed remotely from the edge portions. A low-density core of paper material disposed between and associating the external facings to provide stiffness to the panel. The pad defines a network of channels open at least one of the edge portions and at the interior portion of the first facing allowing airflow therebetween.
US08551594B2 Sealing tape for sealing a joint
A sealing tape for sealing a joint has an elastically expanding foam strip of approximate rectangular cross section and a foil-type wrapping at least partially surrounding the foam strip. Foil wrapping holds the foam strip in a compressed state and comprises a tear-open tab extending in the longitudinal direction of the sealing tape for opening the wrapping to allow the foam strip to expand, and includes an adhesive tape located in the area of the bottom surface of the foam strip. The wrapping surrounds the two lateral surfaces and the top surface of the foam strip, has a first edge strip, which covers a first edge area of the bottom surface of the foam strip, and a second edge strip, which covers a second edge area of the bottom surface of the foam strip opposite the first edge area. The adhesive tape is bonded adhesively to the two edge strips and holds them in place but can be separated from them by pulling. The adhesive tape adheres at least in the middle area of the bottom surface of the foam strip directly to the foam strip.
US08551590B2 Multilayer film and packaging material
An object of the present invention is to provide a multilayer film and a package body of which the thickness can be reduced than that of a conventional multilayer film, by having a good impact resistance, flex resistance, and anti-pinhole property. A multilayer film 100 according to the present invention includes a repeatedly laminated part 130. The repeatedly laminated part 130 is formed by alternately and repeatedly laminating a first layer 131 and a second layer 132. The first layer 131 consists mainly of a polyamide resin (excluding elastomers). The second layer 132 consists mainly of a copolymer of an olefin-based hydrocarbon having carbon number of 2 to 4 and a vinyl group-containing monomer.
US08551588B2 Resealable laminate for heat sealed packaging
A resealable and disposable package assembly is described. The assembly includes a container and a multilayer cover laminate that are bonded to one another to initially seal the contents of the package. The package can then be easily opened by at least partially separating the cover laminate along a predesignated interface. The package can be reliably and effectively sealed by recontacting the previously separated cover portions to one another.
US08551586B2 Polylactic acid shrink films and methods of casting same
A heat-shrinkable polylactic acid (PLA) film and a method of its manufacture are provided. In an exemplary embodiment, the PLA films exhibit heat-induced shrinkage in the transverse direction with little to no concomitant shrinkage in the machine direction. The films may comprise any grade of PLA polymer, optionally including additives, such as antiblock, slip, plasticizers, viscosity enhancers and combinations thereof. A method of cast and tenner manufacture is disclosed, which includes a temperature conditioning step.
US08551580B2 Method for producing polycrystalline silicon
A polycrystalline silicon producing method with preventing meltdown and maintaining a high growing rate and a high yield by increasing temperature of raw material gas before supplying them to a reactor in a high pressure state so as to lower convection heat transfer from a silicon rod, including: supplying electric current to a silicon seed rod in a reactor to make the silicon seed rod to generate heat; and supplying a large amount of preheated raw material gas including chlorosilanes to the silicon seed rod in the reactor in the high pressure state.
US08551566B2 Directed material assembly
Methods of directing assembly of materials using a surface-modified substrate are disclosed. A modified surface is created on a substrate by applying a first surface agent to the substrate. Energy is applied to the modified surface to form an imaged surface having an imaged portion and a non-imaged portion. The imaged portion is characterized by a surface energy that is different from the surface energy of the non-imaged portion. For example, the applied energy can remove at least a portion of an attached surface agent from the imaged portion to modify the surface energy. In some preferred embodiments the energy also modifies the surface agent without causing oxidation. To avoid oxidation, for example, the surface modification and/or energy appliement can take place in a low oxygen environment (e.g., having an oxygen content lower than that present in about 0.01 Torr of air). The imaged surface can then be exposed to a self assembling material, such as a block copolymer, such that the surface can direct assembly of the self assembling material by preferential attachment of certain moieties of the block copolymer to imaged or non-imaged portions of the surface in order to form a selected pattern.
US08551563B2 Coating method
A coating method includes holding a substrate in a horizontal state on a substrate holding member; supplying a coating liquid onto a front side central portion of the substrate held on the substrate holding member; rotating the substrate holding member about a vertical axis to spread the coating liquid supplied on the front side central portion of the substrate toward a front side peripheral portion of the substrate by a centrifugal force; and damping a wobble of the substrate being rotated, by a wobble damping mechanism including a gas delivery port and a suction port both disposed to face a back side of the substrate, while delivering a gas from the delivery port and sucking the gas into the suction port.
US08551561B2 Non-electrolytic deposition method
The invention relates to a method for the non-electrolytic deposition of a compound, preferably an electrochromic compound, comprising the following successive steps: (a) an electroconductive layer is deposited on a non-conductive solid substrate; (b) a reducing agent or an oxidizing agent (=redox agent) is deposited on an area of said electroconductive layer, said area covering only a portion of the surface of said electroconductive layer; and (c) a solution of a precursor of the compound to be deposited is brought into contact both with the redox agent and with at least a portion of the area of said electroconductive layer not covered by the redox agent, said precursor being chosen from those having an oxidation-reduction potential higher or lower than the redox agent and forming, after an oxidation-reduction reaction, a compound insoluble in the solution of the precursor of the compound to be deposited.
US08551553B2 Grain endosperm extraction system
Specifically, a dry corn fractionation system which operates to produce an endosperm fraction which can be concurrently of greater purity at greater yield than obtainable from corn milling or dry corn milling processes.
US08551552B2 Oil or fat composition
Provided is an oil or fat composition including the following components (A) and (B): (A) a tetracyclic triterpene alcohol selected from the group consisting of 24-methylene cycloartanol and cyclobranol; and (B) an oil or fat containing diacylglycerol at 5 weight % or more.
US08551544B2 Protein isolate compositions and uses thereof
The various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a protein-based binder or coating system for particulate- and/or powder-type food systems, for example, to form nutritive ready-to-eat food bars, protein bars, snack pieces, or cereal clusters, where the binder comprises a modified wheat protein isolate. Other non-limiting embodiments relate to food compositions comprising a modified wheat protein isolate binder, and at least one of food particulates; powdered food ingredients, such as protein powders; and combinations thereof. In addition, methods for forming the various non-limiting embodiments of the food compositions and the modified wheat protein isolate binder systems are also disclosed.
US08551543B2 Symbiotic maple product compositions and methods
The present invention relates to novel maple product compositions. In particular, the present invention relates to new compositions comprising maple sap, maple concentrate, maple syrup or diluted maple syrup, and probiotics, prebiotics or combinations thereof. The present invention also discloses methods for the production of maple based products, including functional drinks, comprising a composition comprising maple sap, maple concentrate, maple syrup or dilutated maple syrup, and probiotics, prebiotics or combinations thereof, as a vehicle for the delivery of probiotics and prebiotics to the gastrointestinal tract.
US08551537B2 Rhus verniciflua stokes extract having increased content of active flavonoid compound and method for preparing same
The present invention relates to Rhus verniciflua Stokes extract having an increased content of an active flavonoid compound through a gas bubbling treatment, a method for preparing the Rhus verniciflua Stokes extract, and a method for converting fustin into fisetin through the gas bubbling treatment of a solution containing fustin. The method for preparing the Rhus verniciflua Stokes extract of the present invention can convert the conventional Rhus verniciflua Stokes extract having high content of fustin and low content of fisetin into a Rhus verniciflua Stokes extract having high content of fisetin. Therefore, the Rhus verniciflua Stokes extract of the present invention can be commercialized into natural anticancer agents, anticancer and cancer prevention food products, and health functional foods due to the excellent bioactivity thereof, and promote the development of relevant industries through the high added-value of Rhus verniciflua Stokes. In addition, the method for converting fustin into fisetin can be applied to other natural substances and be used as a method for enhancing the functionality thereof by increasing the content of a high active flavonoid, thereby becoming an enabling technology that can lead high-functionalization of natural substances.
US08551535B1 Homeopathic remedies and methods for enhancing weight loss
Homeopathic compositions and formulations are disclosed. In one embodiment, compositions and formulations are disclosed that aid in weight loss and maintenance of a healthy weight. In another embodiment, methods are disclosed for producing homeopathic compositions and formulations. In still another embodiment, methods are disclosed for helping an individual lose weight.
US08551529B2 Composition for the production of tablets, and method for the production of said composition
The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of a composition for the production of tablets and to a composition obtained thereby. This composition is a directly compressible composition which results both in improved tabletting properties and in improved tablet properties.
US08551523B2 Sustained release aminopyridine composition
A pharmaceutical composition which comprises a therapeutically effective amount of a aminopyridine dispersed in a release matrix, including, for example, a composition that can be formulated into a stable, sustained-release oral dosage formulation, such as a tablet which provides, upon administration to a patient, a therapeutically effective plasma level of the aminopyridine for a period of at least 12 hours, preferably 24 hours or more and the use of the composition to treat various neurological diseases.
US08551517B2 Substrates providing multiple releases of active agents
The present disclosure comprises a polymeric substrate that provides multiple releases of active agents. A substrate for multiple phase delivery of active agents is provided having a first polymer matrix layer having a first active agent disposed therein, a second polymer matrix layer having a second active agent disposed therein, and a coacervate layer disposed between the first polymer matrix layer and the second polymer matrix layer. Selected first and second active agents are included in the first and second polymer matrices such that as the first and second polymer matrices dissolve, the active agents are released. Multiple phase active agent release is achieved by constructing multiple layers of a polymer matrix containing an active agents formed with polymers having different solubility characteristics or with active agents at different concentration levels.
US08551512B2 Polyethylene glycol/poly(butylene terephthalate) copolymer coated devices including EVEROLIMUS
Methods for making coatings on an implantable device such as a drug-eluting stent comprising a polymer and nano or microparticles of a drug in slow-dissolving polymorph, implantable devices produced by the methods and methods of using the coatings are provided.
US08551511B2 Phase-separated biocompatible polymer compositions for medical uses
A variety of phase-separated biocompatible polymer compositions are described. In preferred embodiments the polymers are bioresorbable and/or biodegradable, and have desirable mechanical properties, such as fracture and/or fatigue toughness, that have previously not been a primary design criteria for such polymers. The polymer compositions are useful in a variety of medical applications, such as in the fabrication of medical devices.
US08551510B2 Bed bug control and repellency
Control or repellency of bed bugs by bringing the bed bugs into contact with a bed bug control formulation containing at least one compound selected from the group consisting of certain alkyl ketones and cyclic ketones wherein the total number of carbon atoms in the alkyl ketones and cyclic ketones is from 10 to 16 carbon atoms and method for achieving such control or repellency.
US08551507B2 Terpene glycosides and their combinations as solubilizing agents
Several terpene glycosides (e.g., mogroside V, paenoiflorin, geniposide, rubusoside, rebaudioside A, steviol monoside and stevioside) were discovered to enhance the solubility of a number of pharmaceutically and medicinally important compounds, including but not limited to, paclitaxel, camptothecin, curcumin, tanshinone HA, capsaicin, cyclosporine, erythromycin, nystatin, itraconazole, celecoxib, clofazimine, digoxin, oleandrin, nifedipine, and amiodarone. The use of the diterpene glycoside rubusoside and monoterpene glycoside paenoiflorin increased solubility in all tested compounds. The terpene glycosides are a naturally occurring class of water solubility-enhancing compounds that are non-toxic and that will be useful as new complexing agents or excipients in the pharmaceutical, agricultural (e.g., solubilizing pesticides), cosmetic and food industries.
US08551503B2 Topical anti-inflammatory compositions comprising O/W emulsions containing pro-penetrating glycols
Topically applicable compositions in the form of oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions contain a pro-penetrating system including at least one glycol and at least one additional pro-penetrating agent, a suitable emulsifying system and at least one active agent of the family of steroidal anti-inflammatory agents, and are useful e.g., for the treatment of psoriasis.
US08551497B2 Microbial vaccine and vaccine vector
The present invention includes cold-adapted, acid-fast bacterium for use as a vaccine and a vaccine vector. In preferred embodiments, the cold-adapted, acid-fast bacterium is a Mycobacteria, for example, Mycobacteria shottsii.
US08551494B2 Methods of immune modulation with death receptor-induced apoptosis
This invention provides chimeric proteins comprising an apoptosis-inducing molecule fused to a member of a binding pair that is capable of binding to a selected cell that expresses a death receptor. When the selected cell is exposed in vivo or ex vivo to the chimeric protein, the selected cell undergoes apoptosis. The preferred embodiment is FasL protein fused to streptavidin. The methods of using the chimeric proteins are especially beneficial in causing activated lymphocytes to undergo apoptosis, thus modulating the immune response. Patients with conditions such as asthma or allergy, or patients undergoing transplantation with allogeneic or xenogeneic tissue are examples of patients who benefit from the methods of this invention.
US08551489B2 Methods for the treatment of cancers
Methods for the treatment of cancers involving dysregulation of thromboxane receptor β (TP-β) are provided, including in certain aspects methods for diagnosing such cancers. Specific cancers included are genitourinary cancers, gastrointestinal cancers and leukemias.
US08551484B2 Human antibodies against hepatitis C virus (HCV) and uses thereof
Isolated human monoclonal antibodies which bind to hepatitis C virus (HCV), and related antibody-based compositions and molecules, are disclosed. The human antibodies can be produced in a transfectoma or in a non-human transgenic animal, e.g., a transgenic mouse, capable of producing multiple isotypes of human monoclonal antibodies by undergoing V-D-J recombination and isotype switching. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions comprising the human antibodies, non-human transgenic animals, and hybridomas which produce the human antibodies, and therapeutic and diagnostic methods for using the human antibodies.
US08551481B2 Anti-cancer vaccine composition comprising an anti-CD223 antibody and kit comprising an anti-cancer vaccine and an anti-CD223 antibody
Regulatory T cells (Treg) limit autoimmunity but can also attenuate the magnitude of anti-pathogen and anti-tumor immunity. Understanding the mechanism of Treg function and therapeutic manipulation of Treg in vivo requires identification of Treg selective receptors. A comparative analysis of gene expression arrays from antigen specific CD4+ T cells differentiating to either an effector/memory or a regulatory phenotype revealed Treg selective expression of LAG-3 (CD223), a CD4-related molecule that binds MHC class II. LAG-3 expression on CD4+ T cells correlates with the cells' in vitro suppressor activity, and ectopic expression of LAG-3 on CD4 T cells confers suppressor activity on the T cells. Antibodies to LAG-3 inhibit suppression both in vitro and in vivo. LAG-3 marks regulatory T cell populations and contributes to their suppressor activity.
US08551476B2 SP35 antibodies and uses thereof
Endogenous Sp35 is a negative regulator for neuronal survival, axon regeneration, oligodendrocyte differentiation and myelination (Negative Regulator). Molecules that block endogenous Sp35 function, such anti-Sp35 antibodies can be used as therapeutics for the treatment of neuron and oligodendrocyte dysfunction. The present invention provides antibodies specific for Sp35, and methods of using such antibodies as antagonists of endogenous Sp35 function. The invention further provides specific hybridoma and phage library-derived monoclonal antibodies, nucleic acids encoding these antibodies, and vectors and host cells comprising these antibodies. The invention further provides methods of promoting oligodendrocyte survival and myelination in a vertebrate, comprising administering to a vertebrate in need of such treatment an effective amount of an anti-Sp35 antibody.
US08551474B2 Antitumor vaccination using allogeneic tumor cells expressing alpha (1,3)-galactosyltransferase
The invention relates to methods and compositions for causing the selective targeting and killing of tumor cells. Through ex vivo gene therapy protocols tumor cells are engineered to express an α(1,3)galactosyl epitope. The cells are then irradiated or otherwise killed and administered to a patient. The α-galactosyl epitope causes opsonization of the tumor cell enhancing uptake of the opsonized tumor cell by antigen presenting cells which results in enhanced tumor specific antigen presentation. The animal's immune system thus is stimulated to produce tumor specific cytotoxic cells and antibodies which will attack and kill tumor cells present in the animal.
US08551470B2 Use of substance P for mobilization of Mesenchymal stem cells or proliferation of Mesenchymal stem cells and for wound healing or facilitating wound healing
The present invention relates to a use of Substance-P for the manufacture of a medicament for mobilization or proliferation of Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from the bone marrow, or facilitating said mobilization or proliferation, and use of Substance-P for the manufacture of a medicament for wound-healing or facilitating wound-healing.
US08551468B2 Absorption enhancers for intranasal interferon administration
A composition including a surfactant and at least one alkyl glycoside and/or saccharide alkyl ester and a drug. The surfactant composition(s) when admixed with a drug is non-toxic and non-irritating, while stabilizing and increasing the bioavailability of the drug. The invention also provides compositions that enhance absorption of drugs via the oral, ocular, nasal, nasolacrimal, inhalation or pulmonary, oral cavity (sublingual or Buccal cell) or CSF delivery route of a patient, including but not limited to insulin, glucagon and exendin-4.
US08551466B2 Hydrating compositions
The present invention is directed to compositions including at least one sugar silicone surfactant, at least one polyamine; at least one oil-soluble polar modified polymer, and water.
US08551464B2 Hair styling method
Provided is a method for styling mammalian hair that includes contacting the hair with a composition that includes a poly(vinylamine-vinylformamide) copolymer and a first carrier, contacting the hair with a composition that includes a bisulfite and a second carrier, and styling the hair. The method of the present invention promotes improved hair styling properties such as improved curl retention and straightness retention, e.g., under conditions of high relative humidity and temperature. The method can be used for semi-permanently straightening or curling the hair. Also provided is a method for controlling fizz by applying the copolymer and bisulfite compositions.
US08551463B2 Hair care compositions and methods of treating hair
The present invention provides compositions, kits and methods for treating scalp hair. The compositions include fluorinated (but not perfluorinated), non-polymeric compounds in a suitable excipient to provide beneficial effects on hair.
US08551461B2 Moisturizing and shine-imparting emulsion lip compositions
An emulsion lip composition, in solid or stick form, comprising: (a) a reaction product of (i) at least one polyamine with (ii) an oil-soluble polar modified polymer comprising at least one C2-C20 monomer; (b) water; (c) at least one non-volatile solvent; and (d) at least one colorant; and a method of using thereof.
US08551460B2 Enhanced shine and moisture lip composition
The present invention is directed to enhanced shine and moisturizing aqueous lip compositions with a unique texture and feel. The compositions include: (a) at least one sugar silicone surfactant; (b) at least one polyamine; (c) at least one high carbon polar modified polymer; and (d) water.
US08551457B2 Oral care compositions comprising spherical fused silica
An oral care composition comprising fused silica, wherein at least 95% of the fused silica particles are spherical.
US08551456B2 Combination therapy and methods for treating bacterial biofilms
A combination therapy for treating a bacterial biofilm comprises a therapeutically effective amount of an antibiotic comprising an aminoglycoside or tetracycline, or a combination of two or more thereof, and a cationic porphyrin in an amount effective for enhancing the effectiveness of the antibiotic in treating the bacterial biofilm. A method of treating a bacterial biofilm comprising Pseudomonas aeruginosa comprises contacting the bacterial biofilm with a combination therapy comprising a therapeutically effective amount of an antibiotic, and a cationic porphyrin in an amount effective for enhancing the effectiveness of the antibiotic in treating the bacterial biofilm. A method of treating a bacterial biofilm comprising Pseudomonas aeruginosa in a patient comprises administering to the patient a combination therapy comprising a therapeutically effective amount of an antibiotic, and a cationic porphyrin in an amount effective for enhancing the effectiveness of the antibiotic in treating the bacterial biofilm.
US08551453B2 Aromatic triamide-lanthanide complexes
The present invention provides luminescent lanthanide metal chelates comprising a metal ion of the lanthanide series and a complexing agent comprising at least one phthalamidyl moiety. Also provided are probes incorporating the phthalamidyl ligands of the invention and methods utilizing the ligands of the invention and probes comprising the ligands of the invention.
US08551451B2 Combination vaccine with acellular pertussis
The present invention relates to a combination vaccine comprising a mixture of antigens for protection against diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis, and infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae and polio viruses. The present invention also relates to inclusion of antigens for protection against infections caused Hepatitis virus and other pathogens, such that administration of the vaccine can simultaneously immunize a subject against more than one pathogen. The invention in particular relates to a fully liquid stable combination vaccine comprising the antigens as indicated above and the methods for manufacturing the same.
US08551449B2 Contrast agents
The present invention relates to a class of compounds and to diagnostic compositions containing such compounds where the compounds are iodine containing compounds of the formula R—Y—X—Z—R where each R denotes a triiodinated phenyl residue further substituted by hydrophilic moieties, Y and Z are urea and urethane groups and X is a alkylene group which may be further substituted. The invention also relates to the use of such diagnostic compositions as contrast agents in diagnostic imaging and in particular in X-ray imaging, and to contrast media containing such compounds.
US08551444B2 Compact pressure swing reformer
Embodiments of a compact pressure swing reformer are disclosed. Certain embodiments have a construction comprising multiple rotating reformer beds, high temperature rotary valves at the bed ends, and E-seals to seal the beds to the valves. Several possible designs for introducing reactants into the beds also are disclosed. The multiple reformer beds are configured to provide for pressure equalization and ‘steam push’. The compact pressure swing reformer is suitable for use in fuel cell vehicle applications.
US08551443B2 Modified zinc ferrite catalyst and method of preparation and use
A catalyst for oxidative dehydrogenation of organic compounds is provided by forming a solution of catalyst precursor components comprised of Fe+3 and Zn+2 cations and at least one other modifier element cation in water to form an aqueous solution of the catalyst precursor components. The modifier element cation has a standard reduction potential of from greater than about −2.87 E° (V) to less than about −0.036 E° (V) with a valence of +2. A base is separately and simultaneously added to the aqueous solution in amounts to maintain the pH of the aqueous solution at a pH of from about 8.5 to about 9.5 as the catalyst precursor components. The catalyst precursor components are allowed to react and precipitate out of solution as a precipitate. The resulting precipitate is calcined to form a modified zinc ferrite catalyst compound.
US08551441B1 Control of crystallographic texture and grain size in bulk thermoelectric materials through constrained deformation
New methods for improving thermoelectric properties of bismuth telluride based materials are described. Constrained deformation, such as by canned/sandwich, or encapsulated, rolling and plane strain channel die compression, particularly at temperatures above 80% of the melting point of the material on an absolute temperature scale, changes the crystallographic texture and grain size to desirably increase the values of both the thermoelectric power factor and the thermoelectric figure of merit ZT for the material.
US08551437B2 Process for the manufacture of P4O6 with improved yield
A process for the production of a reaction product consisting essentially of P4O6 is carried out by reacting oxygen with phosphorus in an exothermic reaction in a reaction unit. Heat created by the exothermic reaction is removed by feeding P4O6 and/or by-products of the process into the reaction unit. The generated reaction product is then quenched to a lower temperature where no essential decomposition of the reaction product occurs, and at least part of P4O6 is separated from the reaction product obtained after quenching. The resulting yield of P4O6 based on the phosphorus used is improved and the heat of the exothermic reaction can be controlled in an economic way.
US08551435B2 Process for reducing contaminants in an industrial fluid stream
This invention provides novel processes utilizing compositions comprising substituted polyamines as acid gas scrubbing solutions and methods of using the compositions in an industrial system. The invention relates to the use of such polyamine compounds in industrial processes to remove acidic contaminants from natural and industrial fluid streams, such as natural gas, combustion gas, natural gas, synthesis gas, biogas, and other industrial fluid streams. The compositions and methods of the invention are useful for removal, absorption, or sequestration of acidic contaminants and sulfide contaminants including CO2, H2S, RSH, CS2, COS, and SO2.
US08551434B1 Method of forming a syngas mixture
A method for making a syngas mixture is accomplished by introducing a gaseous feed mixture containing carbon dioxide and hydrogen into a reactor containing a non-zinc catalyst. The catalyst contacts the gaseous feed mixture to form syngas mixture reaction products. The reaction takes place in the presence of nickel-containing and/or iron-containing materials. The gaseous feed mixture is introduced into the reactor at a reactor inlet temperature of from 700° C. to 800° C., with the reaction being carried out at substantially adiabatic conditions or wherein the syngas mixture reaction products are removed from the reactor at a reactor outlet temperature of from 500° C. to 600° C.
US08551430B2 Method for the selective catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides in exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine, and exhaust system
A method for the selective catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine includes providing an exhaust system having: an SCR catalytic converter, a reagent addition point upstream of the SCR catalytic converter for adding at least one of a reducing agent and a reducing agent precursor, and a structure which the exhaust gas can at least flow around and is disposed immediately downstream of the reagent addition point. The method determines a nitrogen oxide content of the exhaust gas, determines a temperature of the structure, determines a quantity of reagent required for reduction of the nitrogen oxide content which is determined, determines a temperature of the structure after addition of the quantity of reagent, compares the temperature of the structure with a predeterminable target temperature, calculates the temperature of the structure using at least one of the following measures, if the temperature is lower than the target temperature: adding a reduced quantity of reagent, and increasing at least one of the temperature of the structure and an exhaust gas temperature until the temperature of the structure, after addition of the quantity of reagent, is greater than or equal to the target temperature, and adds the quantity of reagent through the reagent addition point and, if appropriate, increases the temperature.
US08551423B2 Liquid supply device using check valve and reactive liquid chromatography system
It is possible to correctly determine whether a change in the pressure or flow rate is caused by normal opening and closing operations of a check valve and to monitor in real time whether an operation of a check valve is normal or abnormal in a liquid supply device. Light is introduced in the check valve and a change in the quantity of light transmitted through or reflected by the check valve, caused by the opening and closing of the valve is detected, so that the opening and closing operations of the check valve can be directly detected. The check valve is arranged in a pipe in the liquid supply device, and a change in the pressure in the pipe is monitored on the basis of a signal from a pressure sensor and a signal which represents the opening and closing of the check valve.
US08551420B2 Water absorbing material and manufacturing method therefor
Provided is a water absorbing material having a granular core portion and a coating layer portion coating the granular core portion, which does not produce color before use and with which a test result can be determined only after use. In the water absorbing material, the coating layer portion is composed of 90 wt % to 96 wt % of a substrate and 10 wt % to 4 wt % of an excretion test material, the excretion test material contains a porous adsorbent having an adsorbance of 25 wt % or greater and including micropores, and an excretion test indicator adsorbed on the micropores of the porous adsorbent, and the excretion test indicator is added in an amount in the range of 0.015 wt % to 0.10 wt % relative to the total amount of the coating layer portion.
US08551418B2 System and method for repositioning a diagnostic test strip after inoculation
A system for analyzing the concentration of an analyte in a fluid sample comprises a test strip and a meter. The test strip is capable of being inoculated by the fluid sample. The test strip includes a test element, which contains at least one reagent adapted to cause a reaction when brought into contact with the analyte. The meter includes a read-head, a repositioning device, and a display. The read-head is capable of producing a signal indicative of the reaction between the analyte and the at least one reagent. The display is capable of displaying the analyte concentration. The repositioning device is adapted to move the test strip from a loading position to a testing position. The testing position positions the test element proximate to the read-head.
US08551417B2 Reactor and reaction plant
In order to provide, when a plurality of fluids each containing a different kind of substance are mixed and reacted, a reactor having a mixing channel capable of forming a multi-layered flow in a radial direction in the cylindrically-shaped mixing channel; improving mixing performance by synergizing swirling effects of mixture of turbulent flows and a swirling flow; and producing a reaction product with a high yield as well as high efficiency, a mixing channel 1 which mixes fluids 4 and 5 each containing the different kind of substance is cylindrically shaped, and inlet passages 2 and 3 which introduce the fluids 4 and 5, respectively, are plurally arranged in a manner offset from a central axis of the mixing channel 1.
US08551403B2 Disc substrates for combinatorial chemistry
A combinatorial chemical formation and assay disc (1) having a base (20) and an upper surface (26) and a lower surface, one of the upper or lower surfaces being an assay surface and a data surface (40) spaced from the assay surface wherein the data surface is on or within the assay disc. The assay surface has a conductive layer (64) on the base, a dielectric or photo-conductive layer (66) on the conductive layer and a chemically functional layer (68, 69) on the dielectric or photo-conductive layer. The assay surface may be planar or include three dimensional features (100, 168).
US08551401B1 Sample preparation assembly
A sample preparation assembly includes a torch configured for use with an inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy instrument. The torch includes at least two approximately cylindrical tubes arranged substantially concentrically. The sample preparation assembly also includes an injector configured for use with the inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy instrument. The injector includes an injection nozzle and a spray chamber. The sample preparation assembly further includes a heat sink element. The heat sink element includes a securing element. The securing element is configured to mate with a mounting element of the torch to mechanically support the heat sink element.
US08551400B2 Analyte sensors, testing apparatus and manufacturing methods
In some aspects, an analyte sensor is provided for detecting an analyte concentration level in a bio-fluid sample. The analyte sensor may include a first sensor member coupled to a base, wherein the first sensor member includes a semiconductor material, a second sensor member coupled to the base; and an active region in contact with at least the first sensor member. In some aspects, the first sensor member may be a fiber, and may have a conductive core and a semiconducting cladding surrounding the core. Manufacturing methods and apparatus utilizing the sensors are provided, as are numerous other aspects.
US08551397B2 Process for manufacturing steel blanks
The invention relates to a manufacturing process for steel blanks. The invention relates in particular to a manufacturing process of a steel blank comprising electroslag remelting (ESR—ElectroSlag Remelting) or vacuum arc remelting (VAR—Vacuum Arc Remelting) to obtain very good mechanical properties. The blanks obtained can be used especially in the field of the manufacture of pressurized equipment elements and especially cannon tubes.
US08551392B2 Method for manufacturing transmission electron microscope micro-grid
A method for manufacturing a transmission electron microscope (TEM) micro-grid is provided. A sheet of carbon nanotube structure comprising a plurality of carbon nanotubes is first provided. Some carbon nanotubes are removed from selected portions of the sheet of carbon nanotube structure to form a plurality of electron transmission portions. Each of the electron transmission portions includes a hole defined in the sheet of carbon nanotube structure and a plurality of residual carbon nanotubes in the hole. The sheet of carbon nanotube structure having the electron transmission portions is cut into pieces to form the TEM micro-grid.
US08551390B2 Electrospinning apparatus, methods of use, and uncompressed fibrous mesh
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide electrospinning devices, methods of use, uncompressed fibrous mesh, and the like, are disclosed.
US08551386B2 Imparting texture to cured powder coatings
Methods for imparting a texture to a cured powder coated surface are provided. These methods involve heating the cured powder coating to a temperature greater than its glass transition point (Tg), then imparting a texture to the cured powder coating under pressure using a release medium having a replicative surface. After the texture is imparted to the cured powder coating, the release medium can be removed. Examples of suitable release media include, for example, engraved plates, engraved rolls, release papers, release films, and release webs.
US08551385B2 Resin molding apparatus, resin molding method, and resin container
A resin molding apparatus of a simplified structure is provided that offers high handling efficiency by a work robot, thereby improving a throughput. The resin molding apparatus (200) that retains a hollow molded body (10) including a closed-bottom cylindrical main body (12) and a cylindrical open neck portion (20), the open neck portion (20) including a helical ridge portion (22) formed on an outer circumferential surface thereof and divided into a plurality of helical segments by a slit (24) extending in an axial direction of the open neck portion (20), and that overmolds a resin sheathing body (30) on an outer surface of the main body (12), includes a first recess in which the open neck portion (20) is to be fitted, and a rib (216) formed on a circumferential surface of the recess so as to extend in a depthwise direction thereof, and to be engaged with the slit (24).
US08551384B2 Permanent-magnet rotor for an external-rotor electric motor particularly for washing machines and similar household appliances and relevant manufacturing method
A permanent-magnet rotor for external-rotor electric motor (1) particularly for washing machines of unusual silence comprising a cup-shaped support structure (6) having a bottom (7) and a side wall (10) and a plurality of magnetic poles (12) arranged in the support structure (6) and arranged along said side wall (10), with elastomeric material interposed between said magnetic poles (12) which forms with them a massive structure (14) of uniform thickness.
US08551383B2 Method for the localized working of a structural component at a working location
The present invention provides a method for the localized working of a structural component that comprises a foam material reinforced by at least one strut at a working location. Firstly, the foam material is selectively removed, while leaving the at least one strut, within a strut connecting zone in the region of the working location. Subsequently, the strut connecting zone is filled with a filling material and the at least one strut is connected to the filling material in the strut connecting zone. From a further aspect, a sandwich component which comprises a foam core is provided. An embedding part is at least partially embedded in the foam core and at least partially surrounded by a layer of filling material. At least one strut is incorporated in the foam material, fastened at one end to the surface of the foam core and integrated at another end in the layer of filling material.
US08551378B2 Nanospinning of polymer fibers from sheared solutions
Nanofibers are fabricated by introducing a polymer solution into a dispersion medium and shearing the dispersion medium. Droplets of the polymer solution are spun into elongated fibers that are insoluble in the dispersion medium.
US08551377B2 Forming touch fasteners on substrates
A touch fastener strip includes a sheet-form material substrate having a front face, an array of fastener elements integrally molded with a resin base layer on the front face of the substrate and an array of discrete regions of resin (e.g., gripping elements) integrally molded with a resin base layer through apertures in the sheet-form material on the back face of the substrate. The array of fastener elements forms a discrete band of fastener elements extending longitudinally along the front face of the fastener strip, and the array of gripping elements forms a discrete band of gripping elements extending longitudinally along the back face of the fastener strip.
US08551376B2 Method for growing carbon nanotube forests, and generating nanotube structures therefrom, and apparatus
The present invention provides apparatus and methods for growing fullerene nanotube forests, and forming nanotube films, threads and composite structures therefrom. In some embodiments, an interior-flow substrate includes a porous surface and one or more interior passages that provide reactant gas to an interior portion of a densely packed nanotube forest as it is growing. In some embodiments, a continuous-growth furnace is provided that includes an access port for removing nanotube forests without cooling the furnace substantially. In other embodiments, a nanotube film can be pulled from the nanotube forest without removing the forest from the furnace. A nanotube film loom is described. An apparatus for building layers of nanotube films on a continuous web is described.
US08551374B2 Method for producing continuous expanded polystyrene foam parts
The invention relates to a novel, innovative industrial method for producing polystyrene (EPS) foam parts of arbitrary length and having a constant cross-section, with mixed densities located in accordance with the mechanical and thermal properties required for each application. The invention also relates to a machine (apparatus) for producing said solid parts having localized densities defined by the mechanical and thermal requirements of the application. The aforementioned products are produced by joined both longitudinally and transversely. The invention can be used to reduce the standard method to three steps, thereby resulting in a significant saving in terms of production. Moreover, unlike with the standard method, variants can be produced using the above-mentioned method, thereby increasing the range of application said type of products.
US08551372B2 Process for producing an optical film
This invention provides a process for producing an optical film, which, even when a film is produced by casting using a melt casting film forming method so that the central part in the widthwise direction is thick, can finally realize a flat film having an even thickness and good flatness and possessing excellent optical properties. The production process of an optical film can meet recent demands for reduced film thickness, increased film width, and improved film quality in protective films for liquid crystal polarizing plates. The production process of an optical film by a melt casting film forming method is characterized in that, in an MD stretching step, an unstretched film after nipping is stretched in a transfer direction (MD direction) of the same film by a factor of not less than 1.1 and not more than 3.0, and, in an extruding step, the following relationship is satisfied: 10 μm≦T1−T2≦200 μm wherein T1 represents the film thickness at the central part in the widthwise direction of an extruded web, μm; and T2 represents the film thickness at both ends in the widthwise direction of the extruded web, μm.
US08551368B2 Conductive paste for forming a solar cell electrode
A conductive paste for forming a solar cell electrode, including: a conductive powder containing silver as a main component; glass frit; and an organic vehicle, wherein the glass frit contains tellurium glass frit having tellurium oxide as a network-forming component. The conductive paste of the present invention makes it possible to form a solar cell electrode having a low dependence on firing temperature without causing problems due to fire-through into the substrate, and to thereby obtain a solar cell having good solar cell characteristics.
US08551366B2 Conductive composition and conductive cross-linked product, capacitor and production method thereof, and antistatic coating material, antistatic coating, antistatic film, optical filter, and optical information recording medium
A conductive composition comprises a π conjugated conductive polymer, a dopant, and a nitrogen-containing aromatic cyclic compound. A capacitor comprises an anode composed of a porous material of valve metal, a dielectric layer formed by oxidizing the surface of the anode, and a cathode provided on the dielectric layer and having a solid electrolyte layer containing a π conjugated conductive polymer, which comprises an electron donor compound containing an electron donor element provided between the dielectric layer and the cathode. Another capacitor is based on the above-described capacitor, wherein the solid electrolyte layer further comprises a dopant and a nitrogen-containing aromatic cyclic compound. An antistatic coating material comprises a π conjugated conductive polymer, a solubilizing polymer containing an anion group and/or an electron attractive group, a nitrogen-containing aromatic cyclic compound, and a solvent. An antistatic coating is formed by applying the antistatic coating material.
US08551363B2 Method of producing group II-VI compound semiconductor, method of producing group II-VI compound semiconductor phosphor, and hexagonal group II-VI compound semiconductor
A method of producing a Group II-VI compound semiconductor. The method involves generating a pulsed electrical discharge plasma between metallic electrodes in sulfur to produce a Group II-VI compound semiconductor. A method of producing a Group II-VI compound semiconductor phosphor using a pulsed electrical discharge plasma. A hexagonal crystal of Group II-VI compound semiconductor composed of a plurality of twin crystals.
US08551358B2 Liquid-crystalline medium
The present invention relates to a liquid-crystalline medium, characterised in that it contains a polymerisable component (A) containing one more polymerisable compounds and a liquid-crystalline component (B) containing one more compounds of the general formula I in which R, rings A1 and A2, Z1, Z2, Y1, Y2, X0 and r are as defined in Claim 1.
US08551357B2 Composite film and method for manufacturing a composite film
There is provided a method for manufacturing a thin polarizing film having an absorption axis oblique to a width direction of the film which comprises the steps of: performing an orientation treatment in two directions in a plane of a support film; applying a solution containing a lyotropic liquid crystal compound onto a surface of the support film; and causing a column-shaped aggregate of the lyotropic liquid crystal compound to be oriented in a direction (orientation direction) equal to the vector sum of a direction of first orientation treatment and a direction of second orientation treatment.
US08551353B2 Hierarchical structure and manufacturing method thereof
Provided are a shape of a hierarchical structure, an engineering effect of the hierarchical structure according to the shape, an increasing method of the engineering effect, an application method of the hierarchical structure for novel material or parts, and a mass-manufacturing method of the hierarchical structure. The present invention relates to a hierarchical structure and a manufacturing method thereof, and includes a hierarchical structure in which at least one nano-object that has a characteristic length of a nanoscale region in an internal matrix is arranged in a predetermined pattern. According to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, an excellent characteristic that is generated in a nanoscale region may be used in a structure of a macroscopic scale region, and structures that have different scales may be simply interconnected or interfaced regardless of the different scales.
US08551352B2 Method for producing a device with a fluid-encapsulating membrane
The invention relates to a method for producing a device with a membrane used to encapsulate a fluid contained in a cavity, in which: two substrates (110, 120) are provided; a membrane (111) is placed on one and/or on the other of the substrates; one or more walls (113) are formed, helping to laterally define the cavity (114), in which said walls are located on or in one of the substrates and/or on or in the other of the substrates, and said cavity is intended to contain the fluid, the two substrates (110, 120) are assembled together by superimposing one on the other so as to complete the cavity, in which the or each membrane (111) also helps to define the cavity, the fluid (117) is encapsulated in the cavity between the substrates, and the or each membrane is soaked by the fluid, at least a portion of one of the substrates and/or the other of the substrates is removed insofar as one and/or the other of the substrates are equipped with a membrane, in order to release the membrane at least in the central portion thereof.
US08551351B2 Method of manufacturing nozzle plate
A nozzle plate has a nozzle hole for ejecting liquid, which penetrates in a thickness direction of the nozzle plate. An ejection face of the nozzle plate having an ejection opening of the nozzle hole is covered with a water-repellent coat having a through hole communicating with the nozzle hole. The through hole has a straight portion and a diameter expansion portion. The straight portion is contiguous to the nozzle hole and having the same diameter as the ejection opening. The diameter expansion portion is provided to interpose the straight portion with the nozzle hole and gradually expanding so that a part thereof farther from the straight portion has a larger diameter than a part thereof closer to the straight portion.
US08551350B2 Method of manufacturing liquid crystal display device
In one embodiment, a first substrate having a plurality of array regions is prepared. A seal material is formed in each of the array regions. A peripheral seal material is arranged outside the array regions extending in a first direction. The peripheral seal material has an exhaust opening provided at a portion of the peripheral seal material extending in a second direction. A dummy seal material is formed between the peripheral seal material extending in the first direction and the seal material formed in the array region. A second substrate is arranged on a surface of the first substrate in a jig. The inside of the jig is decompressed, and the atmosphere between the first and second substrates is exhausted while applying a pressure to the first and second substrates. Then, the first and second substrates are attached by curing the seal material, the peripheral seal material and the dummy seal material.
US08551349B2 Method for producing magnetic recording medium, and magnetic recording/reproducing apparatus
A method for producing a magnetic recording medium having a magnetically partitioned magnetic recording pattern on at least one surface of a nonmagnetic substrate, characterized by comprising a step of reacting portions of a magnetic layer, formed on the non-magnetic substrate, with ozone to modify magnetic properties of said portions of the magnetic layer for forming the magnetically partitioned magnetic recording pattern. The magnetic layer can be a two-layer structure comprising a magnetic layer having a granular structure and formed thereon a magnetic layer having a non-granular structure. The produced magnetic recording medium exhibits a greatly enhanced recording density while recording/reproducing characteristics equal to or better than those of the heretofore proposed magnetic recording mediums are maintained, and it can be produced with an enhanced efficiency.
US08551347B2 Methods for creating a stepped perpendicular magnetic pole via milling and/or metal liftoff
A method in one embodiment includes forming a layer of a nonmagnetic material above an upper surface of a substrate; forming a resist structure above the layer of nonmagnetic material, wherein the resist structure has an undercut; removing a portion of the layer of nonmagnetic material not covered by the resist structure; depositing a layer of magnetic material above the substrate adjacent a remaining portion of the layer of nonmagnetic material such that at least portions of the layer of magnetic material and the remaining portion of the layer of nonmagnetic material lie in a common plane; removing the resist structure; and forming a write pole above the layer of magnetic material and the remaining portion of the layer of nonmagnetic material. Additional methods are also presented.
US08551346B2 Photomask-forming glass substrate and making method
A photomask-forming glass substrate having a square major surface is provided wherein two strip regions are defined on the major surface near a pair of opposed sides such that each region spans between 2 mm and 10 mm inward of the side and excludes end portions extending 2 mm inward from the opposed ends of the side, a least squares plane is computed for each of the two strip regions, the angle included between normal lines to the least squares planes of two strip regions is within 10 seconds, and the height difference between two strip regions is up to 0.5 μm.
US08551344B2 Method and apparatus for producing autologous clotting components
A method and apparatus for obtaining various components of a multi-component material. Generally, a component of a whole blood sample may be concentrated from a patient and re-introduced to the same patient. For example, a clotting component, such as thrombin, from a whole blood sample may be extracted and concentrated in an apparatus and collection to be reapplied or reintroduced into a patient.
US08551342B2 Method of operating a blood treatment apparatus, and blood volume monitor and blood treatment apparatus for implementing the method
The present invention proposes a method of operating a blood treatment apparatus for the extracorporeal blood treatment of a patient, a blood volume monitor for monitoring an extracorporeal blood treatment of the patient by means of a blood treatment apparatus, and a blood treatment apparatus.
US08551341B2 Suspended media membrane biological reactor system including suspension system and multiple biological reactor zones
A wastewater treatment system is provided comprising a biological reactor having a separation subsystem, a suspension system and a membrane operating system. The separation subsystem is constructed and arranged to maintain adsorbent material in the biological reactor with a mixed liquor. The suspension system is positioned in the biological reactor and is constructed and arranged to maintain adsorbent material in suspension with mixed liquor. The membrane operating system is located downstream of the biological reactor and is constructed and arranged to receive treated mixed liquor from the biological reactor and discharge a membrane permeate. In addition, a wastewater treatment system is provided comprising a first biological reaction zone, a second biological reaction zone and a membrane operating system. The first biological reaction zone is constructed and arranged to receive and treat the wastewater. The second biological reaction zone includes a separation subsystem and is constructed and arranged to receive effluent from the first biological reaction zone. A suspension system for adsorbent material is provided in the second biological reaction zone. The membrane operating system is located downstream of the second biological reaction zone and is constructed and arranged to receive treated wastewater from the second biological reaction zone and discharge a membrane permeate.
US08551336B2 Extraction of proteins by a two solvent method
A method for separating proteins from plant material, in particular, intact algal cells, using an amphipathic solvent set and a hydrophobic solvent set. Some embodiments include dewatering intact algal cells and then extracting proteins from the algal cells. The methods provide for single and multistep extraction processes which allow for efficient separation of algal proteins from a wet algal biomass. These proteins are high value products which can be used as renewable sources of food and food additives. Neutral lipids remaining in the algal biomass after extraction of proteins can be used to generate renewable fuels.
US08551335B2 Dual stage filtration with barrier for fuel water separation
A dual stage filter includes an outer filter with a first media and an inner filter with a second media. A barrier is between the first media and the second media. The barrier directs fluid flow between the first and second media. The barrier creates a flow path between the first and second media, such that a working fluid, which is desired to pass through the first and second media, is directed by the barrier and flows through the second media, and such that another fluid, which is not desired to pass through the second media, is directed by the barrier and separates from the working fluid. Using the barrier, the dual stage filter can employ either or both upward flow and downward flow to achieve efficient fluid separation, for example fuel water separation in an engine fuel filter.
US08551334B2 Filter capsule
A filter capsule has a filter housing which, on at least one end face, has an end cap with an air release valve. A protective wall is formed on the end cap at a distance from the air release valve and protrudes beyond the air release valve.
US08551332B2 Affinity particle and affinity separation method
The present invention is affinity particles that are characterized by having phosphorylcholine groups represented by the following formula (1) covalently bonded onto the surface of inorganic powder and also by having ligands having specific affinity with a certain target substance covalently bonded or adsorbed onto the surface of inorganic powder.The object of the present invention is to provide an affinity separation method that uses affinity particles utilizing inexpensive inorganic particles and is capable of separating the target substance easily and with high accuracy.
US08551331B2 Automatic cooking medium filtering systems and methods
An automatic filtering system for filtering a cooking medium in a fryer, includes a frypot; a filter manifold having removable filter; a pump, that supplies cooking medium from the filter manifold to the frypot; a pressure sensor that senses a pressure of the cooking medium supplied by the pump; and a controlling mechanism that controls an operation of the pump in response to the sensed pressure data. The control mechanism halts the operation of the pump after sensing a drop in the pressure of the cooking medium pressure that is greater than or equal to a predetermined pressure drop threshold. The systems and methods of the invention provide automatic filtering that may reduce or eliminate an incorrect refilling operation after the filtering of cooking medium, so that the filtering process may be performed correctly each time.
US08551328B2 Organic chloride adsorbent
Chemically combined chlorides are removed from intermediate and product streams of a hydrocarbon reforming process by contacting the streams with zeolite 13X, having a Si/Al ratio of less than 1.25.
US08551325B2 Process for producing hydrocarbon oil
A method for manufacturing a hydrocarbon oil, comprising: a first step wherein a feedstock oil containing an oxygen-containing organic compound and a water-insoluble chlorine-containing compound is brought into contact with a hydrogenation catalyst comprising a support containing a porous inorganic oxide and one or more metals selected from Group VIA and Group VIII of the periodic table supported on the support in the presence of hydrogen to generate a hydrocarbon oil and water in a vapor state by the hydrodeoxygenation of an oxygen-containing organic compound and convert the water-insoluble chlorine-containing compound into a water-soluble chlorine-containing compound; a second step wherein the water in the reaction product of the first step is maintained in a vapor state and the reaction product of the first step is brought into contact with a nitrogen-containing Brønsted base compound which has a boiling point at normal pressure of 100° C. or less and is water-soluble to obtain a product to be treated; and a third step wherein the product to be treated is cooled to a temperature not higher than the temperature at which water in a vapor state is liquefied to form an aqueous phase containing a water-soluble chlorine-containing compound and a nitrogen-containing Brønsted base compound and then separate the aqueous phase from an oil to be treated to obtain a product oil containing a hydrocarbon oil.
US08551323B2 Systems and methods for hydroprocessing a heavy oil feedstock
Systems and methods for hydroprocessing a heavy oil feedstock are disclosed. The system employs a plurality of contacting zones and at least one separation zone, wherein a solvating hydrocarbon having a normal boiling point less than 538° C. (1000° F.) is employed. In the system, a mixture of heavy oil feedstock and solvating hydrocarbon is provided to a contact zone along with a slurry catalyst feed in a hydrocarbon diluent. The contacting zone operates at a temperature and pressure near the critical temperature and pressure of the heavy oil and solvating hydrocarbon mixture to convert at least a portion of the heavy oil feedstock to lower boiling hydrocarbons, forming upgraded products.
US08551322B2 Nitric oxide microsensors via fluorosilane-based xerogel membranes
The presently disclosed subject matter relates to sensors for measuring an amount of a gaseous species in a sample. The sensors comprise a gas permeable polysiloxane network membrane, comprising both alkyl and fluorinated alkyl groups. In some embodiments, the polysiloxane network can be formed from the co-condensation of a mixture of an alkylalkoxysilane and a fluorosilane. The presently disclosed subject matter also relates to methods of making the sensors, methods of selectively measuring an amount of a gaseous species, such as nitric oxide, in a sample, and to compositions comprising the polysiloxane networks.
US08551318B2 Ion detector and system
Apparatus and method for detecting current or potential generated in a liquid sample suitable for use in a chromatography or other liquid sample analytical system. One embodiment is an electrolytic ion transfer device with a signal detector in communication with the electrodes of the transfer device. Another is a combination ion transfer device/electrolyte generator. Another substitutes a detector for the ion transfer device in the combination.
US08551316B2 Method of electrodepositing a metallic coating layer containing nickel and molybdenum
This invention relates to a method for producing a metallic coating layer comprising nickel and molybdenum on an electrically conductive substrate by electrodeposition from an aqueous solution including nickel salts, gluconate anions and citrate anions wherein the substrate acts as the cathode and wherein molybdate is added and wherein the pH of the aqueous solution is adjusted between 5.0 and 8.5. The invention also relates to an electrically conductive substrate provided with such a metallic coating layer electrodeposited from the aqueous solution.
US08551315B2 Method for electromechanical fabrication
An electroplating method that includes: a) contacting a first substrate with a first article, which includes a substrate and a conformable mask disposed in a pattern on the substrate; b) electroplating a first metal from a source of metal ions onto the first substrate in a first pattern, the first pattern corresponding to the complement of the conformable mask pattern; and c) removing the first article from the first substrate, is disclosed. Electroplating articles and electroplating apparatus are also disclosed.
US08551314B2 Mesoscale and microscale device fabrication methods using split structures and alignment elements
Various embodiments of the invention are directed to formation of mesoscale or microscale devices using electrochemical fabrication techniques where structures are formed from a plurality of layers as opened structures which can be folded over or other otherwise combined to form structures of desired configuration. Each layer is formed from at least one structural material and at least one sacrificial material. The initial formation of open structures may facilitate release of the sacrificial material, ability to form fewer layers to complete a structure, ability to locate additional materials into the structure, ability to perform additional processing operations on regions exposed while the structure is open, and/or the ability to form completely encapsulated and possibly hollow structures.
US08551312B2 Process to prepare amino acid-N, N-diacetic acid compounds
The invention relates to a process for the production of an amino acid having at least one secondary or tertiary amino group and three or more carboxyl groups or its salt with less than an equivalent of alkaline metal based on the number of carboxyl groups, said process comprising reducing alkali metal ions from an aqueous solution of an alkali metal salt of an amino acid having at least one secondary or tertiary amino group and three or more carboxyl groups and acidifying the amino carboxylate starting material by first performing a chemical acidification step using an organic or inorganic acid to get a compound in which at least one of the groups is protonated, and in a subsequent step further acidifying the amino carboxylate starting material and reducing alkali metal ions from an aqueous solution of the partially acidified alkali metal salt of the amino acid having at least one secondary or tertiary amino group and three or more carboxyl groups by electrodialysis, wherein the electrodialysis is performed using a hydrogen ion permselective membrane on the anode side and a cation-permeable membrane on the cathode side.
US08551310B2 Method for making a nano-composite gas sensor
There is disclosed a method for making a nano-composite gas sensor. At first, there is provided a substrate. Then, electrodes are provided on the substrate in an array. Finally, a gas-sensing membrane is provided on the electrodes. The gas-sensing membrane includes a nano-conductive film and a peptide film.
US08551309B2 Amperometric biosensor for histamine determination
There is provided by this invention a simple and rapid amperometric biosensor for determining the level of histamine in seafood or fish. The biosensor combines the technology of screen-printing with immobilized diamine oxidase as the bioreceptor. IQ one embodiment of the present invention, the biosensor incorporates potassium hexacyanoferrate (III) as a mediator.
US08551308B2 Biosensor and method of making
An electrochemical biosensor with electrode elements that possess smooth, high-quality edges. These smooth edges define gaps between electrodes, electrode traces and contact pads. Due to the remarkable edge smoothness achieved with the present invention, the gaps can be quite small, which provides marked advantages in terms of test accuracy, speed and the number of different functionalities that can be packed into a single biosensor. Further, the present invention provides a novel biosensor production method in which entire electrode patterns for the inventive biosensors can be formed all at one, in nanoseconds—without regard to the complexity of the electrode patterns or the amount of conductive material that must be ablated to form them.
US08551307B2 Sputtering target apparatus
A sputtering target apparatus is provided. The sputtering target apparatus includes a first target assembly including a first target array having a first target, a second target disposed adjacent to the first target, and a first target dividing region disposed between the first and second targets, the first target assembly extending along a first direction, wherein the first target dividing region has a longitudinal cross-section that is oblique with respect to the first direction.
US08551306B2 Permanent cathode
A permanent cathode that is to be used as electrode in the electro-refining and/or recovery of metals, such as copper, zinc, cobalt or nickel. The permanent cathode comprises a planar mother plate that is made of metal and comprises two sides. The mother plate comprises an edge, which at least partly surrounds the metal plate. The edge comprises a groove portion that is provided with a groove. The groove portion comprises at least one bridging section for joining together, over the groove portion of the edge of the metal plate at the at least one bridging section, the cathode metal halves, such as cathode copper halves, cathode zinc halves, cathode cobalt halves or cathode nickel halves, which are formed on the sides of the mother plate in the electro-refining of the metals.
US08551305B2 Apparatus for treating water or wastewater
A method and apparatus for treating water or wastewater for drinking and/or industrial use. The method and apparatus comprises of a plurality of vertically positioned electrodes, which are placed in a treating chamber and wherein the electrodes are interconnected to one another. The positive and negative electrodes are insulated there-between. The polarity of the direct current supply is changeable at regular intervals in order to prevent passivation of the electrodes when reaching an even abrasion. The current can preferably be pulsatory. In order to be able to keep the current density between the electrodes at a desired value, the most efficient possible electrolysis is achieved by means of a minimum total current and wherein the spacing between the electrodes are adjustable.
US08551298B2 Processes for purifying silane
Processes and systems for purifying silane-containing streams are disclosed with relatively less silane being lost in impurity streams by use of distillation and/or condensation operations.
US08551292B2 Methods for determining the degree of deposition of contaminants
Herein provided are methods for determining deposition of contaminants significantly influencing machine runnability or product quality in manufacturing processes of pulp and paper, especially determining the degree of deposition and the morphology of deposits of sticky contaminants or pitch and for evaluating the effect of chemicals for reducing deposition.In a manufacturing process of pulp and paper is used a method comprising: determining the degree of deposition of a contaminant from a liquid or slurry on a quartz crystal oscillator; and quantifying the morphology of deposits on the surface of the quartz crystal oscillator by image analysis. Further, a method comprising adding a chemical for reducing deposition to the liquid or slurry and then quantifying the degree of deposition and the morphology of deposits is used to evaluate the effect of the chemical.
US08551291B2 Debonding equipment and methods for debonding temporary bonded wafers
A debonder apparatus for debonding a temporary bonded wafer pair. The clam shell reactor includes first and second isolated chambers. An upper chuck is contained within the first chamber and has a lower surface protruding into the second chamber. A lower chuck is contained within the second chamber and has an upper surface oriented parallel and opposite to the lower surface of the upper chuck. The debonder includes means for holding an unbounded surface of the first wafer onto the lower surface of the upper chuck. The first chamber pressurizing means applies pressure onto an upper surface of the upper chuck and thereby causes the lower surface of the upper chuck and the attached wafer pair to bow downward. The debonder apparatus also includes means for initiating a separation front at a point of the bonding interface of the temporary bonded wafer pair.
US08551290B2 Apparatus for substrate processing with fluid
An apparatus for substrate processing, mainly includes a processing unit and a fluid supply unit. The processing unit includes a platform for laying a substrate. The platform includes a plurality of injection holes defined thereon, the injection holes obliquely and downwardly extend from a top surface of the platform. The fluid supply unit includes a plurality of containers containing fluids for supplying to the processing unit and fluid-connected to the injection holes of the platform. The fluids from the fluid supply unit can be obliquely injected out from the injection holes and slightly floats and moves the substrate over the platform and reacts with the substrate.
US08551288B2 Apparatus and method for removing a photoresist structure from a substrate
In an apparatus and method for removing a photoresist structure from a substrate, a chamber for receiving the substrate includes a showerhead for uniformly distributing a mixture of water vapor and ozone gas onto the substrate. The showerhead includes a first space having walls and configured to receive the water vapor, and a second space connected to the first space so that the water vapor is supplied to and partially condensed into liquid water on one or more walls of the first space. Ozone gas and water vapor without liquid water may be supplied to the second space to form the mixture therein. The showerhead may be heated to vaporize the liquid water on a given surface of the first space.
US08551287B2 Hybrid adhesive
A hybrid adhesive incorporating cyanate ester and/or epoxy materials and utilizing atmospheric plasma treatment provides stronger, more reliable joints in structural composite parts.
US08551283B2 Offset control for assembling an electronic device housing
Housings for electronic devices are disclosed. According to one aspect, adjoining surfaces of electronic device housings can be mounted or arranged such that adjoining surfaces are flush to a high degree of precision. The electronic devices can be portable and in some cases handheld.
US08551280B2 Solid-core panel incorporating decorative and/or functional material
A panel includes a fiberglass substrate encapsulating an aesthetic material. The fiberglass substrate and the aesthetic material are both impregnated with resin to form the solid-core of the panel. The solid-core panel can be manufactured by arranging multiple layers of a fiberglass material between multiple plates, interleaving aesthetic material between at least two of the layers of fiberglass material, applying resin to the multiple layers of fiberglass material and the aesthetic material, and then allowing the combination of the resin, multiple layers of fiberglass material, and the aesthetic material to cure between the plates, forming a solid-core panel encapsulating the aesthetic material.
US08551279B2 Multilayer articles and methods of making and using the same
Multilayer articles comprising a thermoformable substrate, a base layer and an optional transparent protective layer. Methods of making and paint film composites, and shaped articles made thereby, are also disclosed.
US08551278B2 Methods for controlled application of adhesive
A method of manufacturing a garment is provided that includes applying an adhesive layer to a first ply and/or a second ply in a first amount in a first zone where structural support is desired and in a second amount in a second zone where breathability is desired; arranging the first and second plies with respect to one another so that the adhesive layer is therebetween; and activating the adhesive layer to secure the first and second plies to one another.
US08551277B2 Method for producing light emitting diode device
A method for producing a light emitting diode device includes the steps of preparing a laminate including, in order, a supporting layer, a constraining layer and an encapsulating resin layer, each formed in a thickness direction; cutting the encapsulating resin layer and the constraining layer in the laminate into a pattern corresponding to the light emitting diode element; removing a portion which does not correspond to the light emitting diode element in the encapsulating resin layer and the constraining layer that are cut into the pattern; allowing the encapsulating resin layer corresponding to the light emitting diode element to be opposed to the light emitting diode element to be pressed in the direction where they come close to each other so as to encapsulate the light emitting diode element by the encapsulating resin layer; and removing the supporting layer and the constraining layer from the laminate.
US08551273B2 Method for forming fluoroplastic articles
The present invention relates to a method for forming fluoroplastic articles including inner and outer fluoroplastic layers and a metal meshwork, the metal meshwork being arranged between the inner and outer fluoroplastic layers, characterized by the meshwork being stretchable and compressible in an axial direction.
US08551272B2 Method for producing a ceramic filter body
The invention concerns a method for producing a ceramic filter body (1) for filtering an exhaust gas stream (2) of a diesel engine. The filter body (1) has planar and porous filter sections (3) that are designed to be passed by the exhaust gas flow (2) in a direction transverse to the face of the filter sections (3). A planar permeable fiber web (4, 4′), in particular of filter paper, is first impregnated with finely ground ceramic material (6) only across sections under formation of a non-impregnated section (12). The only partially ceramic-impregnated fiber web (4, 4′) is subsequently brought into the shape of a blank of the filter body (1) in such a way that the impregnated areas of the fiber web (4, 4′) assume the shape of the filter body (1). The fiber web (4, 4′) impregnated section-wise with the ceramic material (6) and shaped is subsequently sintered under heat in such a way that the fibers (5) of the fiber web are burned off and the ceramic material (6) is sintered under formation of the filter body (1) with filter sections (3) that are continuously porous and gas-permeable between their two faces (7, 8).
US08551271B2 Method for providing hermetic electrical feedthrough
A method for fabricating a hermetically sealed electrical feedthrough. The method provides a ceramic sheet and forming at least one via hole in the ceramic sheet, inserting a conductive thickfilm paste into the via hole, laminating the ceramic sheet that has a paste filled via hole between an upper ceramic sheet and a lower ceramic sheet to form an integral ceramic substrate, firing the laminated ceramic substrate to sinter the ceramic substrate and cause the paste filled via hole to form a metalized via while the laminated ceramic substrate form a hermetic seal around the metalized via. The upper ceramic sheet and the lower ceramic sheet are removed from the fired ceramic substrate to expose the upper and lower surface of the metalized via.
US08551269B2 Method for controlling a labelling device
A method for controlling a labelling device, that is part of a block system including a supply device for supplying articles to be labeled, includes supplying, by the supply device, a predetermined number of the articles such that the labelling device and the supply device are each operated at a first operating speed. The predetermined number of the articles are delivered, in an automated manner, to the labelling device. A drive of the labelling device is decoupled from a corresponding drive of the supply device. The labelling device is then operated at a second operating speed.
US08551268B1 Electric primer
Improved electric primer compositions, structures, and methods that are compatible with existing munitions and in particular an exemplary electric primer composition including carbon nanotubes along with energetic primer mixture(s) and an exemplary primer structure including layers of energetic materials wherein a layer exhibiting the most energetic character is positioned proximate to a primer button. Alternative embodiments include both conductive and non-conductive layers.
US08551260B2 Fuel injection flush tool
A fuel injection flush tool adapted to be connected to a conventional fuel injection flush canister in which a supply of combustible liquid fuel injection cleaner is stored. Liquid cleaner is delivered from the flush canister to a gasoline or diesel-driven engine being serviced by which to burn off carbon deposits from the fuel injectors and related parts during a tune-up or service. During one embodiment, air is applied to the flush canister so that the liquid cleaner is delivered from the canister at a pressure which corresponds to the operating pressure of the engine running at idle. In this case, the fuel injectors can advantageously be cleaned (i.e., decarbonized) in a relatively short time and at reduced cost without having to turn off the engine, disable the fuel pump, or remove seats, fuses, relays, etc.
US08551255B2 Rapid heat system for a multi-tub dishwasher
A dishwasher includes a first washing chamber and a second washing chamber capable of performing a washing operation separately and/or concurrently. Each washing chamber includes a wash pump, a drain pump and a heating unit that are operatively connected to a controller. When initiating a washing fluid in one washing chamber, the controller determines if the other washing chamber is active. If the other washing chamber is active, the heating unit for the one washing chamber is operated at a low power level. However, if the other washing chamber is inactive, the one washing chamber is operated at a high power level to rapidly heat the washing fluid and thus shorten the duration of the washing operation.
US08551253B2 Post polish disk cleaning process
A method for cleaning plated polished disks used in hard drive media is provided. The method includes positioning plated polished disks in a first batch scrubber having multiple first brushes, wherein each of the plated polished disks is positioned between two of the first brushes, and scrubbing the plated polished disks with the first brushes. The method further includes positioning the plated polished disks scrubbed in the first batch scrubber in a second batch scrubber having multiple second brushes, wherein each of the plated polished disks is positioned between two of the second brushes, and scrubbing the plated polished disks with the second brushes.
US08551248B2 Showerhead for CVD depositions
A CVD showerhead that includes a circular inner showerhead and at least one outer ring showerhead. At least two process gas delivery tubes are coupled to each showerhead. Also, a dual showerhead that includes a circular inner showerhead and at least one outer ring showerhead where each showerhead is coupled to oxygen plus a gas mixture of lead, zirconium, and titanium organometallics. A method of depositing a CVD thin film on a wafer. Also, a method of depositing a PZT thin film on a wafer.
US08551244B2 Self adaptive cement systems
A self-adaptive cement system includes cement, water and at least one additive that reacts or/and expands in contact with oil and gas. Several chemical products have been identified including rubber alkylstyrene, polynorbornene, resins such precrosslinked substituted vinyl acrylate copolymers and diatomaceous earth. These additives have the effect of making the cement self-healing in the event of physical failure or damage such as micro-annuli. The self healing property is produced by the contact with subterranean hydrocarbon fluids, the potential repair mechanism is thus activated if and when needed in case of start of loss of zonal isolation. In another embodiment, the expansion is deliberately induced by pumping a hydrocarbon fluid in the vicinity of the set cement.
US08551243B2 Concrete reinforced with hybrid nanomaterials
Concrete reinforced with nanostructures and reinforcing concrete methods are provided having cement and dispersion including water, a surfactant, carbon nanotubes having on the external surfaces thereof carbon atoms substituted by atoms of another element or other elements, and carbon nanotubes possessing chemical groups on the surface thereof.
US08551242B2 Low heat of hydration cement compositions and methods of using same
A method of servicing a wellbore in a subterranean formation, comprising preparing a cement composition comprising water and a cementitious material, wherein the cementitious material further comprises blast furnace slag, vitrified shale, calcium sulfate hemi-hydrate or combinations thereof, and placing the cement composition in the wellbore. A cement composition comprising water and a cementitious material, wherein the cementitious material further comprises blast furnace slag, vitrified shale, calcium sulfate hemi-hydrate or combinations thereof. A cement composition comprising water and a cementitious material, wherein the cementitious material further comprises blast furnace slag.
US08551240B2 Cement retarder systems, and retarded cement compositions
A cement retarder system for use in underground wells included a borate compound, an organophosphonate salt, and a copolymer formed from AMPS and a monomer selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid, acrylamide and mixtures thereof. A method of using the retarder system in an underground well having a borehole drilled therein with a borehole wall, and further including a casing disposed in said borehole, such that an annulus exists between said casing and said borehole wall, comprising the steps of providing a cement composition and a liquid carrier, providing a retarder system for said cement composition comprising a borate compound, an organophosphonate salt, and a copolymer formed from AMPS and a monomer selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid, acrylamide, and mixtures thereof, mixing a sufficient amount of said retarder system to create a desired induction period with said cement composition and said liquid carrier to form a cement slurry, pumping the cement slurry from the surface down the casing, and causing said slurry to return to the surface in the annulus between the casing and the borehole wall.
US08551237B2 Synthesis of colorants in mixing apparatus
A process for preparing colorants of the general formula (Ia), (Ib) or (Ic) or mixtures thereof, comprises reacting (a) tetracarboxylic acids or their functional derivatives with (b) at least one compound selected from i. aliphatic amines, ii. aromatic amines, iii. aliphatic diamines, iv. aromatic diamines, (c) optionally in the presence of further additives, (d) optionally in the presence of wetting agents in a mixing apparatus. These colorants are useful for coloration of macromolecular organic and inorganic materials of natural and synthetic origin.
US08551236B1 Phase change inks comprising crystalline-amorphous mixtures
A phase change ink composition suitable for ink jet printing, including printing on coated paper substrates. In embodiments, the phase change ink composition comprises an amorphous compound and a crystalline compound which is derived from bio-renewable materials. The composition provides for a robust, rapid crystallization ink composition.
US08551235B2 Algae based fire resistant materials and method of making same
A process for manufacturing fire resistant materials comprising the steps of recovering an alga having a mineral component wherein said alga is selected form the group consisting of Chara algae and Cladophora algae; mixing said algae with water to form an aqueous mixture; mixing a chlorine based solution to the mixture to kill the algae and any bacteria and to form an algae-based product; separating the algae-based product from the aqueous mixture; and recovering the algae-based product from the surface of the mixture.
US08551232B2 Dry carbon dioxide capture apparatus
Disclosed is a dry carbon dioxide capture apparatus with improved carbon dioxide capture efficiency through preventing gas backflows into vertical transport lines. The dry CO2 capture apparatus includes a capture reactor having a capture buffer chamber on the bottom side, a capture diffusion plate on top of the capture buffer chamber, and adsorbent particles in a space above the capture diffusion plate; a first separator connected to the capture reactor through a vertical transport line; a regenerator having a regeneration buffer chamber on the bottom side, a regenerating diffusion plate on top of the regeneration buffer chamber, and adsorbent particles in a space above the regenerating diffusion plate; a second separator connected to the regenerator through a gas separation line; and a second particle transfer line connected to the regenerator at one end and connected to the capture reactor at the other end.
US08551230B2 PH2OCP—portable water and climatic production system
The present invention “PH2OCP” relates to a portable water and climatic production system. In the preferred embodiment, the system uses a combination of heating coils assemblies, cooling coils and more specifically the desiccant rotor technology for the extraction, collection of water vapor molecules from the air stream and transformation in to condensate for the production of clean filtered potable water. The portable water and climatic production system or “PH2OCP” is designed to operate and produce water in a wide range of global climatic conditions, including the most arid of environments. This is made possible due to the highly effective performance capabilities of the desiccant rotor technology in the extraction of water vapor molecules from any existing ambient air. The desiccant technology is designed in the “PH2OCP” to operate in combination with the microwave reactivation system in the regeneration or reactivation section and cooling coils assembly located in the condensation section.
US08551229B2 Gas purification by adsorption of hydrogen sulfide
Hydrogen sulfide is removed from a hydrogen rich gas stream using adsorbents having a low loss of carbon dioxide adsorption capacity upon sulfur loading including high purity silica gels, titania or highly cross-linked, non-chemically reactive resins. The adsorbents may be used to adsorb both carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide, or may be used as a guard bed upstream of a separate carbon dioxide adsorbent.
US08551223B2 Method of removing unburned carbon from fly ash
Unburned carbon is efficiently removed from fly ash, and effective utilization of the fly ash and removed unburned carbon is attained. Water is added to fly ash to thereby obtain a slurry. A collector is added to the slurry, and shearing force is applied to the slurry and collector to thereby attain a surface modification. The mixture is subjected to flotation operation at which unburned carbon of fly ash is attached to froths and surfaced. The application of shearing force to the slurry and collector can be carried out by means of a submerged agitator whereby an agitation power of 0.7 to 10 kWh/m3 is applied per unit quantity of slurry. The fly ash concentration of the slurry is in the range of 3 to 50 wt. %, and the amount of collector added is in the range of 5 to 100 wt. % based on the amount of unburned carbon of fly ash. The unburned carbon separated by flotation can be used as fuel, and the fly ash (product) having its unburned carbon content reduced to 1 wt. % or below can be used as a cement mixing material or a raw material for production of lightweight aggregate.
US08551221B2 Method for combining desalination and osmotic power with carbon dioxide capture
Carbon Dioxide capture processes utilizing ammonia, or ammonia in water as the capture fluid for carbon dioxide generate concentrated solutions of ammonium carbonate species in water, which are subsequently decomposed to capture the carbon dioxide and recycle the ammonia. Forward osmosis processes utilize ammonium carbonate species as draw solutions to pull water from saline solutions such as seawater in the ammonium carbonate solution. The ammonium carbonate solution is then heated to decompose the ammonium carbonate to ammonia and CO2 which are both reused, while a portion of the aqueous stream is recovered as pure water. Combination of carbon capture process with an integrated forward osmosis process provide great economies over standalone operations. Furthermore, the very high concentrations of ammonium carbonate provide a further opportunity to include osmotic power recovery cycles with the integrated forward osmosis and carbon capture process.
US08551220B2 Sulfur dioxide absorbent comprising ionic liquid
A sulfur dioxide absorbent comprising an ionic liquid comprised of alkyl ether-substituted imidazolium cation and an alkanesulfonate anion moieties possesses a high thermal/chemical stability, high SO2 absorption rate and low regeneration temperature, and is useful for an effective separation of SO2 from a combustion exhaust gas mixture or the like.
US08551215B2 System and method of operation for controlled atmosphere storage
A nitrogen-flush scrubber system for a controlled atmosphere room in which the amount of nitrogen required to flush the regenerated scrubber beds is significantly reduced. The present invention provides a dual-bed scrubber system in which low oxygen air salvaged from the active scrubber bed is used to flush high oxygen air from the regenerated scrubber bed prior to nitrogen flush. The scrubber system may include two scrubber beds that are used alternately to scrub air from the CA room. One scrubber bed is used as an active scrubber bed to remove carbon dioxide from the air. The inactive scrubber bed may be regenerated while it is inactive. When the active scrubber bed becomes sufficiently saturated, the control system may switch the active scrubber bed, using the regenerated bed as the active scrubber bed and allowing the saturated bed to be regenerated.
US08551213B2 Method of coal gasification and direct ironmaking and system therefor
A system of coal gasification and direct ironmaking attains both heat recovery in a coal-based direct ironmaking process and a reduction in equipment investment in a coal gasification process. A waste heat boiler in the system recovers heat of gas exhausted from a coal gasification furnace. A heater in exhaust gas lines of a heat reduction furnace in the coal-based direct ironmaking process superheats the steam generated by and exhausted from the waste heat boiler. A superheated steam line supplies the steam superheated by the heater as an oxidant to the coal gasification furnace.
US08551212B1 System and process for recovering base and precious metals
A system for recovering precious metals. A container is configured to receive recyclable materials. The recyclable materials include non-metallic materials, base metals and precious metals. A separating solution is disposed in the container and is configured to separate the base metals and the precious metals from the non-metallic materials. The non-metallic materials, base metals, and precious metals are subsequently separated from each other.
US08551209B2 Method and apparatus for improved process control and real-time determination of carbon content during vacuum degassing of molten metals
Methods and apparatuses for improved process control in metal smelting through measurement of off-gas profiles in real time. A tunable laser source is projected across a volume of off-gas and detected to provide a real time profile of gas concentrations. The real time gas concentration profile may be compared with known profiles to identify problems in the smelting process or to identify when the process is complete.
US08551206B2 System and method for securing gas turbine air filters
A gas turbine air filter system includes a frame and at least one guide attached to the frame. A first lever is attached to the frame and can pivot with respect to the frame to engage a first filter. A second lever is attached to the frame and can pivot with respect to the frame to engage a second filter. A method for securing gas turbine air filters includes inserting a first filter into a frame inside at least one guide and pivoting a first clamp connected to the frame to engage at least a portion of the first clamp with the first filter. The method further includes inserting a second filter into the frame inside the at least one guide and pivoting a second clamp to engage at least a portion of the second clamp with the second filter.
US08551205B2 Gas filter insert
The invention relates to a gas filter insert (1), particularly an air filter insert for a fresh air system of an internal combustion engine, having a filter body (2) which extends in its longitudinal direction (4) in a U-shape around an inner chamber (5), and having a connector (3) which communicates with the inner chamber (5) and is arranged on the filter body on the open end-face side (7) thereof. In order to simplify the construction of the filter insert (1), the filter body (2) is sealed transversally to its longitudinal direction (4), with an end plate (9) on at least one end side (8).
US08551202B2 Iodate-containing chemical-mechanical polishing compositions and methods
The invention provides compositions and methods for planarizing or polishing a substrate. The composition comprises an abrasive, iodate ion, a nitrogen-containing compound selected from the group consisting of a nitrogen-containing C4-20 heterocycle and a C1-20 alkylamine, and a liquid carrier comprising water.
US08551200B2 Fluid bed direct contact steam generator system and process
The present invention is a method and system for vertically producing a steam and combustion gas mixture, typically used in enhanced oil recovery processes. The system is a fluid bed up-flow combustor system, including a vertical vessel with fours sections. In a first section, fuel, oxidizer, and possibly water are supplied to the high pressure combustor at a combustion section of a vertical vessel. The combustion gas from the first section flows to a second section for steam generation, where low quality water is injected and turned into steam. Next, the third section is a homogenizer vessel, where any remaining water drops are converted to steam and solid particles and discharged from the vessel. The fourth section located at the bottom of the vessel is a fluid bed, receiving and processing the falling solids from the combustion and the steam generation sections.
US08551198B2 Catalytic secondary reforming process and reactor for said process
A catalytic secondary reforming process, for the production of synthesis gas, comprises the successive steps of: feeding a first gas flow comprising hydrocarbons and a second gas flow comprising oxygen into a reforming reactor, at least one of such gas flows being fed into the reactor in a predetermined feed direction substantially parallel, preferably coaxial, to a longitudinal axis of the reactor, mixing the gas flows in the reactor, with substantially simultaneous oxidation of the hydrocarbons of the first gas flow by the oxygen of the second flow.
US08551197B2 Steam reforming unit
A hydrogen generation system is disclosed that includes an integrated steam reforming reactor. The reactor has an overall cylindrical shape, receives a reformate and separately receiving a combustion gas mixture. The reactor includes a plurality of reforming stages arranged in a stacked series of disc shaped stage configuration, wherein each reforming stage has a disc shaped combustion portion adjacent a disc shaped catalyst pack through which the reformate passes, wherein the reformate is directed axially between stages and radially within each stage; and the combustion mixture is directed radially between groups of stages and circumferentially within each stage.
US08551186B1 Audible alert for stolen user devices
A user device determines that the user device has been stolen and generates an audible alert when the user device has been stolen.
US08551185B2 Mounting plate system, vacuum reservoir plate and electronic pump system for prosthetic socket and related methods
The mounting plate system is for use with a prosthetic socket, the socket having at least one aperture in a distal end thereof and in fluid communication with an interior portion of the socket which receives a residual limb. The mounting plate system includes a mounting plate having a top face to interface with the socket, and a bottom face for attachment to lower portions of a prosthetic limb. An opening in the mounting plate extends from the top face to the bottom face thereof, and a valve housing is positioned in the opening and has a channel therein for fluid communication with the interior portion of the socket via the at least one aperture. A one-way expulsion valve is secured between the valve housing and the socket adjacent the aperture and for regulating fluid communication between the interior portion of the socket and the channel in the valve housing. A vacuum reservoir seal plate is also provided.
US08551182B2 Retrievable urethra sparing prosthetic stent and kidney stone intervention system
The present invention provides devices, a system, and a method for removing kidney stones from the urinary system of a patient with reduced pain and expenses. The system includes expandable, elongated balloon sheaths that deliver and retrieve forceps and a urethral sparing prosthetic stent. The stent is reconstrainable with interwoven nylon strands that are strategically positioned amongst the struts to ensure smooth collapse for removal. An atraumatic coating of PTFE or PET lining on the stent extends from the struts through the tip of the penis to assist patients in passing stones while the stent is in place at the bladder neck. The stent can stay in place for several days while permitting urine drainage. The basket-shaped forceps device has multiple curved, rigid arms to dilate the urethra and capture occluded or embedded stones with a built-in camera. The method is for removing stones through a protected urethral canal.
US08551181B2 Method and apparatus for acetabular reconstruction
A trial system for a prosthesis is described. The prosthesis can include an acetabular prosthesis generally for implantation in an acetabulum and the surrounding pelvis. The acetabular prosthesis includes an acetabular cup having a substantially concave inner surface and a substantially convex outer surface. One trial shell or a collection of trial shells are provided to trial a range of motion of the hip joint before implanting a shell prosthesis into the acetabular prosthesis.
US08551175B1 Method and apparatus for retaining a fusion member while delivering the fusion member between two vertebral bodies
Some embodiments of the invention provide an apparatus that (1) delivers a fusion member between two vertebral bodies after at least a portion of the fibrocartilaginous disc between the vertebral bodies has been removed, and (2) affixes the fusion member to the vertebral bodies. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes (1) a fusion member that is delivered and positioned between the vertebral bodies, (2) a delivery mechanism that delivers and positions the fusion member between the vertebral bodies, and (3) an anchoring member that affixes the fusion member to the vertebral bodies.
US08551173B2 Expandable intervertebral implant and associated method of manufacturing the same
An expandable intervertebral implant (10) includes superior (20) and inferior (30) bone contacting members and at least one vertical wire netting (50) interconnecting the superior and inferior bone contacting members. The superior and inferior bone contacting members include at least two bone contacting components interconnected via one or more lateral wire nettings such that the implant is vertically and laterally expandable in situ from a first insertion configuration to a second expanded configuration. The vertical and lateral wire netting are preferably constructed of a plurality of individual link members. The present invention also preferably relates to an associated method of manufacturing the intervertebral implant such that the intervertebral implant can be manufactured as an integral component or part.
US08551171B2 Methods of stabilizing the sacroiliac joint
Methods of stabilizing the sacroiliac joint by placing an expandable device in the joint to generate laterally opposing forces against the iliac and sacral surfaces of the SI joint to securely seat the device in a plane generally parallel to the SI joint. The expandable device is coated with or otherwise contains a bone material to promote fusion of the joint. The expandable device used in methods of the present invention can be, for example, an expandable cage, a balloon, a balloon-expandable stent or a self-expanding stent.
US08551170B2 Method for producing an implantable bone composition
Disclosed are methods for producing implantable bone compositions suitable for attaching stem cells thereto, characterized in that bone particles are contacted with an albumin comprising solution. Said bone particles can be mineralized and/or lyophilized bone particles of animal or human origin. Preferably the non-immunogenic albumin comprising solution is lyophilized onto said bone particles. The invention further concerns bone compositions suitable for use in graft implantation obtainable by said methods.
US08551164B2 Refractive intraocular implant lens and method
A refractive intraocular lens (104) and method of locating the lens within the eye and attaching the lens to the iris. The refractive intraocular lens (104) may be attached via a staple (230), a fastener (312), anchor (412) or by the tip of the haptic (118). The intraocular lens (104) works in combination with the human crystalline lens to treat conditions selected from the group consisting of myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism.
US08551161B2 Cardiac valve annulus restraining device
A catheter based system for treating mitral valve regurgitation includes a reshaping device having a body and a plurality of movable anchoring barbs attached to the body of the device. The reshaping device can be made from a biocompatible material having suitable shape memory properties. The devices of the current invention can be self expandable, balloon expandable, or a combination self expandable and balloon expandable. One embodiment of the invention includes a method for attaching a reshaping device to the annulus of a mitral valve, moving the body of the device from a fully expanded configuration to a resting configuration, and thereby reshaping the mitral valve annulus.
US08551160B2 Device for the implantation and fixation of prosthetic valves
A device for the transvascular implantation and fixation of prosthetic heart valves having a self-expanding heart valve stent (10) with a prosthetic heart valve (11) at its proximal end is introducible into a patient's main artery. With the objective of optimizing such a device to the extent that the prosthetic heart valve (11) can be implanted into a patient in a minimally-invasive procedure, to ensure optimal positioning accuracy of the prosthesis (11) in the patient's ventricle, the device includes a self-expanding positioning stent (20) introducible into an aortic valve positioned within a patient. The positioning stent is configured separately from the heart valve stent (10) so that the two stents respectively interact in their expanded states such that the heart valve stent (10) is held by the positioning stent (20) in a position in the patient's aorta relative the heart valve predefinable by the positioning stent (20).
US08551158B2 Steerable iliac branch device
A prosthesis may be used for treatment of an aneurysmal body vessel. The prosthesis may include a prosthetic trunk and a prosthetic branch. The prosthetic trunk may include a graft body, an open first end, an open second end, and a trunk lumen extending therebetween. The prosthetic branch may include a graft body, an open first end, an open second end, and a branch lumen extending therebetween. The first end of the prosthetic branch may be attached to the prosthetic trunk, and the branch lumen may be in fluid communication with the trunk lumen. The prosthetic branch may be movable in relation to the prosthetic trunk between neutral, right biased, and left biased configurations. First and second releasable steering members may be associated with the respective first and second biased configurations and may cooperatively retain the prosthetic branch in the neutral configuration.
US08551157B2 Endoluminal prosthetic conduit systems and method of coupling
A modular prosthetic conduit system such as a stent or stent graft system tailored for the repair of aneurysms or other compromised vessel walls. The stent or stent graft system incorporates various means to interlock the multiple modular components used in the repair procedure. The present invention further provides a modular stent graft system tailored for the repair of aneurysms or other compromised vessel walls that cross or are adjacent to a branch or bifurcation in a vessel.
US08551154B2 Intraluminal medical device having asymetrical members of unequal length
This invention relates generally to expandable intraluminal medical devices for use within a body passageway or duct, and more particularly to an optimized stent having asymmetrical strut and loop members, wherein at least one pair adjacent radial strut members have unequal axial lengths.
US08551147B2 Hypertension therapy instrument and method for treating hypertension
A hypertension therapy instrument comprises an infrared ray generator that can radiate infrared ray onto a human body; a heart rhythm signal generator sensing heart rhythm of the human body and outputs a heart rhythm signal containing heart rhythm information; a controlling device receiving the signal outputted by the heart rhythm signal generator and controlling a radiation intensity of the infrared ray generator based on the heart rhythm of the human body, so that the radiation intensity of the infrared ray generator changes with the heart rhythm of the human body, so as to treat hypertension; and a power supply supplying power to the infrared ray generator, the heart rhythm generator, and the controlling device.
US08551146B2 Spinal fixation system
A fastener assembly for a spinal fixation system that is particularly useful in treatment of pediatric and small-statured patients includes a fastener, an attachment member, and a locking member. The fastener has a lower portion for contacting a bone and an upper portion integral with the lower portion. The upper portion has two open channels. Each channel is configured and dimensioned to receive a portion of a longitudinal or connecting member along its circumference. The attachment member is positionable on the fastener and at least partially covers the channel that receives the longitudinal or connecting member. The locking member is operatively associated with the upper portion of the fastener and secures the attachment member and the longitudinal or connecting member to the fastener.
US08551145B2 Anterior adherent thoracolumbar spine plate
The implant is a fixation device shaped in the form of a plate for use in the fixation and stabilization of the thoracolumbar spine. The design and the configuration of the device allows for an anatomic fit of the plate in the spine. The improved fixation allows for an anatomical and biomechanicat advantage in stabilizing thoracolumbar spine trauma both in a primary fashion and/or in conjunction with vertebral body replacement. Its anatomic design allows the application of an ingrowth surface at the host/implant interface and encourages an additional point of fixation in cases at high risk for delayed or non-union such as severe trauma or malignancy. The thoracolumbar spine plate is anatomically designed to fit snugly against the thoracolumbar vertebral bodies through a twist around the Z (longitudinal) axis of the generally rectangular plate.
US08551144B2 Bone plate system configurable as static or dynamic implant
Bone plate systems and methods for implanting. A bone plate system includes a bone plate having a first surface, a second, bone contacting surface opposed to the first surface, and at least one aperture extending through the first and second surfaces. The system includes a bone screw having a threaded shank along a distal end portion thereof, the threaded shank configured to pass through the aperture. A dynamic member is configured to fit between portions of the screw and the bone plate and allow movement of the dynamic member and the screw relative to the bone plate in a first direction, while preventing movement of the dynamic member relative to the bone plate in a direction opposite to the first direction.
US08551141B2 Minimally invasive surgical system
A multi-stage minimally invasive surgical procedure and associated instruments are disclosed. First, the surgical site is prepared. After preparation, the bone screws or anchors are attached to the bone. Subsequent to insertion of the screws, a rod or connecting member is positioned within the yoke portion of the bone screw. Caps are then placed in a pre-lock position within the yokes. The bone screws may be compressed together or distracted along the rod or connecting member, thereby setting the final spacing of the bones or bone segments. Finally the caps are moved to a final lock position to fix the screws to the rod or connecting member to maintain the bones in position relative to each other.
US08551137B2 Double threaded tissue tack
There is disclosed a threaded tissue tack for use in approximating and securing a pair of tissue sections together. The threaded tissue tack has a central body portion and first and second screws extending from opposite ends of the central body portion. The first screw includes a left-hand thread and the second includes a right-hand thread. Engagement structure is provided on the central body portion to rotate the threaded tissue tack about its longitudinal axis and into the pair of tissue sections. There is also disclosed a tack driver for rotating the threaded tissue tack into the tissue. Guards are provided intermediate first and second ends of the central body portion and the first and second screws to protect surrounding tissue from the tack driver.
US08551134B2 Wound site management and wound closure device
A staple, a stapler, and an introducer are disclosed for closing a wound and for wound site management. The staple is deformable, and includes a plurality of tissue-piercing prongs which are expanded outwardly, inserted into tissue and collapsed inwardly to close the wound. The stapler includes a plurality of mechanisms to deform the staple into various positions. An introducer is provided that includes a plurality of spaced-apart wire guides for securing and centering the wound opening during a medical procedure, and during closure of the wound.
US08551129B2 Treatment of coronary stenosis
The invention describes includes a device and method for dilating a coronary arterial stenosis and for creating a transection in the myocardium. The transection creates a new artery composed partially of the old artery and partially of the normal healing tissue and myocardium. Several dilating means are described, as well as several cutting means and alignment means by which the cutting means may be located and properly oriented. In operation, the dilating means, cutting means and alignment means are advanced in the distal end of a catheter, which may be guided into position by a guidewire.
US08551127B2 Sutureless vascular anastomosis connection
Techniques for sutureless vascular anastomosis are described, including an incision seal including a base configured to partially house an outer surface of a main vessel, the base being formed using a material that is configured to be penetrated by a barb disposed on a connector the main vessel being secured to the base when the base is at least partially pierced by the barb, an upper lumen configured to guide a graft vessel, and a housing opening configured to receive the graft vessel.
US08551125B2 Implantable mesh prostheses and method of manufacturing same
Implantable prostheses for reinforcing and repairing defects in a muscular or tissue wall and a method for fabricating the prostheses that minimizes wasted mesh material and reduces the labor and time required for fabrication. The prosthesis may include a plug body formed of surgical mesh material having a closed end, a larger open end, and a cavity extending therebetween, and a filler body formed of the surgical mesh material comprising a plurality of petals extending radially outwardly from and spaced laterally about a common base disposed in the plug body with the common base attached to the closed end of the plug body. The plug bodies are cut as circular pieces, and the filler bodies are cut as hour-glass shaped pieces from the same sheet of material so as to leave virtually no wasted mesh material. The filler pieces may be attached to the plug body piece by welding.
US08551122B2 Handheld safety suturing device
Needle-stick injuries are associated with considerable risk of morbidity for healthcare workers and patients. The present invention of a handheld surgical suturing device allows for visualization of surgical field and better control of the suture needle with possible one-hand operation The device also provides active safety features that protect the surgeon from needle-stick injury.
US08551121B2 Bi-directional suture passer
A bi-directional suture passing instrument is disclosed. The suture passing instrument may include a housing having a first cannulation and a second cannulation that is spaced from the first cannulation by a tissue receiving gap. The instrument may also include a shuttling element movable across the tissue receiving gap between the first and second cannulations. The shuttling element is configured to carry a strand of suture. A first pusher disposed in the first cannulation is configured to push the shuttling element from the first cannulation toward the second cannulation, and a second pusher disposed in the second cannulation is configured to push the shuttling element from the second cannulation toward the first cannulation.
US08551118B2 Hybrid endoscopic/laparoscopic method for forming serosa to serosa plications in a gastric cavity
A method for treating obesity by reducing the volume and/or alter the functioning of the gastric cavity to limit food consumption and induce early satiety. The method includes accessing the cavity endoscopically to visualize the interior of the cavity. The peritoneal cavity is accessed through a small incision in the abdominal wall. Using endoscopic visualization, suture anchoring devices are introduced into the peritoneal cavity through the incision and deployed from the exterior surface through the gastric cavity wall. Suture from pairs of the anchoring devices is drawn through the gastric cavity wall and tightened outside of the cavity to form a serosa to serosa plication. Any number of plications may be formed in the cavity wall and the contacting tissue within a plication may be treated to promote healing and a more durable bond.
US08551116B2 In vivo accessories for minimally invasive robotic surgery
Surgical accessories are presented in vivo and used by surgical tools in the surgical site to perform additional tasks without the need to remove the tools from the surgical site for tool change or instrument loading. The accessories can be introduced into the surgical site by a dedicated accessory introducer, or can be supported on the body of a surgical tool inserted into the surgical site and be manipulated using another surgical tool in the surgical site. The accessory introducer can be resiliently biased to bias the accessories toward a predetermined position in the surgical site.
US08551115B2 Curved cannula instrument
A robotic surgical system is configured with rigid, curved cannulas that extend through the same opening into a patient's body. Surgical instruments with passively flexible shafts extend through the curved cannulas. Force isolation elements within the flexible shafts prevent shaft bending from affecting end effector actuation elements that extends through the shafts. The cannulas are oriented to direct the instruments towards a surgical site. Various port features that support the curved cannulas within the single opening are disclosed. Cannula support fixtures that support the cannulas during insertion into the single opening and mounting to robotic manipulators are disclosed. A teleoperation control system that moves the curved cannulas and their associated instruments in a manner that allows a surgeon to experience intuitive control is disclosed.
US08551107B2 Bending tool and method for reshaping a bone plate
A bending tool is provided for reshaping a bone plate that is preassembled with a pair of spaced-apart threaded, cylindrical elements removably attached to the bone plate and extending above the top surface of the bone plate. The bending tool has a handle and a distal head attached to the distal end of the handle. The distal head has a cavity that is sized and shaped to fit over the pair of spaced-apart threaded, cylindrical elements. The user, while holding the bone plate, may manually apply a leverage force to the bending tool while the cavity of the distal head is fitted over the pair of spaced-apart threaded, cylindrical elements to transmit a sufficient, regionalized bending moment to the bone plate through the pair of threaded, cylindrical elements to reshape the bone plate.
US08551102B2 Joint arthroplasty devices and surgical tools
Disclosed herein are methods, compositions and tools for repairing articular surfaces repair materials and for repairing an articular surface. The articular surface repairs are customizable or highly selectable by patient and geared toward providing optimal fit and function. The surgical tools are designed to be customizable or highly selectable by patient to increase the speed, accuracy and simplicity of performing total or partial arthroplasty.
US08551100B2 Instrumentation for knee resection
Disclosed is a method and apparatus for performing a procedure relative to a selected portion of the anatomy, for example, preparing a portion of a joint, such as a knee, for implantation of a prosthesis. The manner of preparing the selected portion of the anatomy can be assisted with the various apparatuses disclosed.
US08551095B2 Bone plate having combination locking and compression screw holes
A bone plate including a combination locking and compression screw hole having a top opening and a bottom opening, the top opening being generally circular and including a widthwise dimension and a lengthwise dimension normal to the widthwise dimension, where an interior wall of the bone plate extends between the top opening and the bottom opening, where at least a portion of the interior wall proximate the top opening is threaded, and where at least one of the widthwise dimension and the lengthwise dimension is decreased between the top opening to the bottom opening, while the other of the widthwise dimension and the lengthwise dimension does not substantially decrease between the top opening and the bottom opening. The instant disclosure also includes a method of forming a bone plate comprising: (a) fabricating a bone plate to include a first through hole, where at least one of a width and a length of the hole changes along a depth of the hole; (b) plunge milling an interior surface of the bone plate demarcating the first through hole to remove at least a portion of the bone plate to increase at least one of the width and the length of the through hole; and (c) threading at least a portion of the first through hole.
US08551094B2 Distal bone anchors for bone fixation with secondary compression
Disclosed is a bone fracture fixation device, such as for reducing and compressing fractures in the proximal femur. The fixation device includes an elongate body with a helical cancellous bone anchor on a distal end. An axially moveable proximal anchor is carried by the proximal end of the fixation device. The device is rotated into position across the fracture or separation between adjacent bones and into the adjacent bone or bone fragment, and the proximal anchor is distally advanced to apply secondary compression and lock the device into place. The device may also be used for soft tissue attachments.
US08551090B2 Bipolar coagulation forceps
A bipolar coagulation forceps with a fixed forceps leg, a pivot support, and a pivoting forceps leg, which can pivot relative to the fixed forceps leg via a pivot element and which is electrically insulated from the fixed forceps leg is provided, with the forceps legs essentially being made from biocompatible metal. The pivot element is likewise essentially made from biocompatible metal and attaches directly to the moving forceps leg. An insulating body electrically insulating the pivot element and the moving forceps leg from the fixed forceps leg is arranged on or fixed to the fixed forceps leg as a pivot support, on which the moving forceps leg is supported by the pivot element.
US08551087B2 Apparatus and method for cooling and moving ablation elements
A medical device comprising a cell including an ablation element and a carrier configured to receive at least a portion of said ablation element is disclosed. The medical device further comprises a tube enclosing the cell. At least a portion of the tube includes a membrane and the tube includes at least one hole proximate the ablation element for facilitating fluid flow. The medical device further comprises a fluid inlet for providing fluid to the interior of the tube. A method of using the medical device is also disclosed.
US08551085B2 Ablation electrode assembly with insulated distal outlet
The present invention relates to improved ablation electrodes (10, 10′) and catheter assemblies (12), as well as methods useful in conjunction with irrigated ablation catheters. An irrigated ablation electrode assembly (10, 10′) includes a proximal member (18, 18′) having an outer surface (22), an inner lumen (26, 26′) and a proximal passageway (24). The proximal passageway (24) extends from the inner lumen (26, 26′) to the outer surface (22) of the proximal member (18, 18′). The assembly (10, 10′) further includes a distal member (20) having a distal end (30) and a distal passageway (28) extending from the inner lumen (26, 26′) through the distal member (20) to the distal end (30). Embodiments of the present invention include an irrigated catheter assembly (12) configured to direct irrigation fluid to target areas where coagulation is more likely to occur to, among other things, better minimize blood coagulation and associated problems.
US08551082B2 Radio-frequency generator for powering an ablation device
An apparatus and method for use in performing ablation of organs and other tissues includes a radio frequency generator which provides a radio frequency signal to ablation electrodes. The power level of the radio frequency signal is determined based on the subject area of ablation. The radio frequency signal is coupled with the ablation electrodes through a transformation circuit. The transformation circuit includes a high impedance transformation circuit and a low impedance transformation circuit. The high or low impedance transformation circuit is selected based on the impedance of the ablation electrodes in contact with the subject tissue. Vacuum level, impedance level, resistance level, and time are measured during ablation. If these parameters exceed determinable limits the ablation procedure is terminated.
US08551081B2 Cryogenic system
A cryosurgical system and method for supplying cryogen to a probe. The system including a container filled with cryogen and having bellows of a pump submerged within said cryogen. Conduits fluidly interconnect the bellows and a probe that is outside the container to permit the cryogen to be forced from the bellows to the probe upon activation of pump. A pressure relief valve is fluidly coupled to the conduits and positioned between the bellows and the probe. After initially forcing cryogen to the probe at a pressure that establishes a colligative-based sub-cooling of the liquid cryogen, the pressure relief valve is activated to lower the pressure of the cryogen to a running pressure.
US08551080B2 System and device for heating or cooling shape memory surgical devices
A system for heating a heat-transformable shape memory surgical device. The system includes a sealed, sterilizable housing, a thermal probe for heating the shape memory surgical device, the thermal probe being connected with the housing, and a printed circuit board positioned within the housing. The printed circuit board includes a system controller having a power circuit for controlling the receipt and distribution of heating power to the thermal probe, a feedback circuit for measuring a condition of the shape memory surgical device via the thermal probe, and a control circuit for receiving data from the feedback circuit and adjustably controlling an amount of heating power that the power circuit distributes to the thermal probe. The control circuit includes an automatic-cutout circuit for terminating the distribution of heating power to the thermal probe after a specific amount of time or upon the occurrence of a predetermined condition.
US08551079B2 Surgical instrument with electrical connector
A surgical instrument shaft roll drive mechanism includes an electrical conductor that electrically couples the surgical instrument shaft to an electrical connector. The electrical conductor is routed adjacent to a roll drive tendon between a roll drive input capstan and a roll drive output capstan on the shaft. The electrical conductor allows an electrically conductive instrument shaft to be electrically coupled to surgical equipment for use, e.g., as a shield for electrocautery equipment.
US08551078B2 Laparoscopic scaffold assembly
A scaffold assembly includes an instrument pod and a plurality of actuable movers. The instrument pod may include one or more instruments operably coupled thereto. The instrument pod is inserted through a tissue tract into the body cavity. Each actuatable mover includes an insertion member extending therefrom therefrom for insertion within tissue. Each mover has one or more lines removably attachable to the instrument pod that are configured to move the instrument pod between different positions relative to each mover upon the actuation of one or more of the movers to move the instrument pod within the body cavity.
US08551076B2 Retrograde instrument
A minimally invasive surgical instrument includes a U-turn mechanism that transmits actuating forces around a U-turn. The U-turn mechanism is coupled between segments of the instrument and has a bend radius that is smaller than flexible arms having a similar cross section diameter. The actuating forces transmitted by the U-turn mechanism are used to move distal components of the instrument, such as an end effector and a wrist mechanism.
US08551070B2 User profile backup system for an infusion pump device
Some embodiments of an infusion pump system can include a controller device that communicates with a pump device, the pump device having a memory device. The controller device can be configured to record controller-related data, such as user profile data on the memory device of the pump device. This user profile data that is stored in the memory of the pump device can serves as a data backup system that permits the user to program a new controller device in a situation where the original controller device is lost or damaged. In addition or in the alternative, the controller device can be configured to receive controller-related data, such as software update programs or backup controller data, from the memory device of the pump device.
US08551069B2 Methods and apparatus for treating contrast nephropathy
Methods and apparatus are provided for treating contrast nephropathy, e.g., via a pulsed electric field, via a stimulation electric field, via localized drug delivery, via high frequency ultrasound, via thermal techniques, etc. Such neuromodulation may effectuate irreversible electroporation or electrofusion, necrosis and/or inducement of apoptosis, alteration of gene expression, action potential attenuation or blockade, changes in cytokine up-regulation and other conditions in target neural fibers. In some embodiments, neuromodulation is applied to neural fibers that contribute to renal function. In some embodiments, such neuromodulation is performed in a bilateral fashion. Bilateral renal neuromodulation may provide enhanced therapeutic effect in some patients as compared to renal neuromodulation performed unilaterally, i.e., as compared to renal neuromodulation performed on neural tissue innervating a single kidney.
US08551065B2 Closure element with elastic side panels for absorbent sanitary products, absorbent sanitary product and respective manufacturing method
A closure element (10) with elastic side panels for absorbent pant-like sanitary products (52), said element (10) being formed starting from a strip (12) at least partially made of elasticised material (16) folded in transverse direction so as to form two parts (22, 24), symmetrical relative to a central transverse plane (26), each of said parts (22, 24) being able to form a side panel (76) of an absorbent sanitary product (52), said closure element (10) comprising: —a first branch (28) that extends continuously through said central transverse plane (26); —two second branches (30) connected to respective opposite ends of the first branch (28) by means of respective first folds (32), distal relative to said central transverse plane (26), in which the first branch (28) and the two second branches (30) have respective mutually facing surfaces (34, 36) permanently fastened to each other; —two third branches (40) connected to respective ends of second branches (30) by means of respective second folds (42), proximal and distanced relative to said central transverse plane (26); —two fourth branches (44) connected to respective ends of the two third branches (40) in distal positions relative to said central transverse plane (26); and—two fifth branches (46) connected to respective ends of the fourth branches (44) by means of respective third folds (48), proximal and distanced relative to said central transverse plane (26).
US08551064B2 Absorbent article
A disposable absorbent article comprising an absorbent assembly comprising an absorbent core. The chassis may also comprise a water-impermeable backsheet and laterally opposing side flaps. Each of the side flaps may have a longitudinally extending first elastic gathering member attached at or adjacent to its proximal edge. The chassis may also comprise a second elastic gathering member attached at or adjacent the side edge of the chassis. The chassis may further comprise a first activation pattern in the front waist region and/or the back waist region, but the crotch region of the chassis may not be activated or may, alternatively, comprise a second activation pattern which is different from the first activation pattern. The article may further comprise at least one abdominal stretch panel attached to the interior surface or the exterior surface of the chassis in the front waist region or the back waist region. The abdominal stretch panel may provide a circumferential contractive force around the waist opening when the chassis is stretched circumferentially.
US08551062B2 Male external incontinence device
A male external incontinence device includes a first seal formed of adhesive leaves carried by a housing and a second seal attached to the housing to be at a fixed position relative to the first seal and having a length to extend around the first seal after the leaves are secured to a penis.
US08551061B2 Wound treatment apparatus with exudate volume reduction by heat
Apparatus (130) for use in wound therapy of mammals is described, the apparatus (130) comprising: a dressing covering the wound, the dressing being substantially sealed to prevent ingress of ambient atmospheric air to the wound; aspiration means (132) operably connected to a space between the dressing and the wound by an aspiration conduit (142) sealed to the point of entry between wound and dressing against ingress of ambient atmosphere, said conduit (142) being for aspiration of said wound and for removal of fluid from said space between said wound and said dressing; a waste container (148) for receiving aspirated fluid to be discarded operably connected to said aspiration conduit; and heating means (144) for heating said fluid in order to increase the vapor pressure thereof and to cause evaporation to reduce the volume of the fluid in the waste container (148). In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the waste fluid is also provided with a sparge gas.
US08551052B2 Patch-sized fluid delivery systems and methods
A patch-sized fluid delivery device may include a reusable portion and a disposable portion. The disposable portion may include components that come into contact with the fluid, while the reusable portion may include only components that do not come into contact with the fluid. Redundant systems, such as redundant controllers, power sources, motor actuators, and alarms, may be provided. Alternatively or additionally, certain components can be multi-functional, such a microphones and loudspeakers that may be used for both acoustic volume sensing and for other functions and a coil that may be used as both an inductive coupler for a battery recharger and an antenna for a wireless transceiver. Various types of network interfaces may be provided in order to allow for remote control and monitoring of the device.
US08551049B2 Device and method for evacuating surgical vapor and mist from a body cavity
Devices and methods for vacuum-assisted removal of surgically contaminated gas from an insufflated body cavity, the contaminants comprising smoke, aerosols, vapor, mist and the like generated during surgical procedures in order to clear the surgeon's vision of the surgical site and prevent exposure of the surgical staff to the gas. One embodiment of the present invention comprises a series of flow restriction devices to enable stepping down of the flow rate generated by an external vacuum. This reduced flow rate allows safe yet rapid removal of the toxic and vision-obstructing surgical byproducts from the patient's body cavity. The initial flow restriction device may comprise a perforated trocar sleeve in fluid communication with the vacuum source that allows retention of the surgical instrument within the trocar sleeve's inner lumen with concurrent smoke removal. A series of additional flow restriction devices located downstream of the perforated sleeve's intake ports are employed to safely limit the flow rate to a manageable and known value.
US08551048B2 Surgical sealing apparatus
A sealing apparatus includes a housing mountable to an elongate shaft having an axial lumen, a sealing element mounted within the housing and having a dome portion with an opening for passage of an object and at least partially defining an arcuate pathway within the housing, and a sealing member defining a cavity for receiving the object in sealing relation therewith. The sealing member is partially disposed within the housing, and is supported in direct contact with the dome portion of the sealing element. The sealing member is adapted to form a substantial seal with the sealing element, and to spherically move through the arcuate pathway relative to the sealing element upon offset manipulation of an object.
US08551036B2 Insufflation system
An aerosol generator is positioned adjacent to a patient as an attachment to a trocar. The trocar has an entry port for insufflation gas. Aerosol generated by a vibrating element is entrained in the insufflation gas and the mixture is delivered through the trocar. The aerosol may contain a medicament. The trocar may be a conventional trocar. Such trocars are typically used for a camera. The delivery of the aerosolized medicament can occur at the start of the procedure and be delivered in bolus. At the start of the procedure, the peritoneum is being inflated by means of the flow of insufflator gas. This gas flow will help to entrain the aerosolized medicament to the pneumoperitoneum regions. The surgeon can temporarily remove the camera from the trocar port to facilitate insertion and positioning of the aerosolizing unit.
US08551028B2 Force sensing mechansim of a massage machine
A force sensing mechanism of the massage machine contains: a frame, a swing seat, a connecting member, and at least one sensing apparatus. The frame includes a rotary shaft fixed thereon and displaces vertically on a second sliding rail of a massage chair. The swing seat is connected with the rotary shaft and includes at least one roller. A first end of the connecting member is coupled with the swing seat, and a second end of the connecting member is connected with a first end of the stopping member, a second end of the stopping member is coupled on the frame. The at least one sensing apparatus is arranged on the frame relative to the stopping member so as to sense a movement of the stopping member, and the sensing apparatus is connected with a controller to transmit a sensing signal toward the controller so that the controller calculates a massage force of the at least one roller.
US08551026B2 Method and system for the derivation of human gait characteristics and detecting falls passively from floor vibrations
The gait monitor system and method provides various basic gait parameters including step count, cadence, and step duration, in addition to its ability to distinguish between normal, limping and shuffling gait modes, as well as determine falls. Moreover, this gait monitor may be provided with additional sensors, e.g. beam break at the beginning and end of a corridor to estimate average walking velocity (with the distance between the beams known or determined); this enables the calculation of additional gait characteristics such as average step length and average stride length. These parameters can additionally be used to detect various gait anomalies and other diagnostic information.
US08551021B2 Guidewire with an improved flexural rigidity profile
Medical devices and methods for making and using the same are disclosed. An example medical device may include a guidewire. The guidewire may include a core wire having a distal portion. A tubular member may be disposed over the distal portion. The tubular member may have a plurality of slots formed therein and may have a longitudinal axis. The tubular member may include a variably spaced slot section that has a flexural rigidity that varies from a first flexural rigidity to a second flexural rigidity. The transition from the first flexural rigidity to the second flexural rigidity may be a function of a fourth power equation. The first flexural rigidity may be in the range of about 1×10−6 to about 9×10−5 lbs-inches2. The second flexural rigidity may be in the range of about 1×10−3 to about 5×10−3 lbs-inches2.
US08551019B1 Variable stiffness guide wire
A guide wire is heated by application of electricity to change the stiffness of at least a portion of the guide wire. That portion of the guide wire may thus be selectively softened wherever that portion needs to be bent to facilitate routing the guide wire through curves or obstacles in a desired path.
US08551004B2 Dual mode ultrasound transducer
A curved array ultrasound transducer is described which is usable in both sector and curved linear modes. The transducer includes a central portion (40) of elements and lateral portions (44) of elements on either side of the central portion. In the sector mode the central portion of elements is operated to perform phased array scanning. In the curved linear mode both the central and lateral portions of elements are operated to perform curved linear array scanning. The transducer elements of the central portion have a finer pitch than the pitch of the transducer elements of the lateral portions. In the sector mode, the elements of the central portion are operated individually, and in the curved linear mode the transducer elements of the central portion are operated in pairs. In the sector mode, the number of transducer elements of the central portion that participate in the active aperture of the transducer may be varied according to the number of transducer elements in acoustic contact with the patient.
US08551003B2 Ultrasonic probe and ultrasonic diagnosis device
An ultrasonic probe and an ultrasonic diagnosis device which can improve electrical safety for an operator are provided. The ultrasonic probe 2 has an insulating portion 62 between a mounting board 43 and a case 25. Since electrical leakage from the internal device of the ultrasonic probe 2 can be prevented, electrical safety of the ultrasonic probe 2 for the operator can be improved. A conductive film 61 is provided on the ultrasonic wave radiation side of a cMUT chip 20, and a conductive member 63 is provided along the insulating member 62. A conductive film 61 and a conductive member 63 are connected by a conductive member 64. A closed space having a ground potential is formed by the conductive film 61, the conductive member 63 and a coaxial cable 55 connected to ground. Main components or the body circuits of the ultrasonic probe 2 are contained in the closed space having the ground potential and shielded electrically from the outside.
US08551000B2 Ultrasound 3D imaging system
The present invention relates to an ultrasound imaging system in which the scan head either includes a beamformer circuit that performs far field subarray beamforming or includes a sparse array selecting circuit that actuates selected elements. When used with second stage beamforming system, three dimensional ultrasound images can be generated.
US08550996B2 Medical vital sign indication tool, system and method
A vital sign evaluation tool (100, 200, 300) for evaluating a measure of severity of illness associated with a patient is provided, where the tool comprises a displayed grid (102) divided into a plurality of coded regions (104 to 106, 206, 306) each assigned to a vital sign associated with the patient. Each of the plurality of coded regions are scaled according to one of a plurality of age ranges (136, 202, 302) associated with the patient and adapted to generate a score value corresponding to a measurement of the vital sign. The score value within the plurality of the coded regions is summed to produce a total score (156), where the total score is adapted to provide an indication of the severity of illness of the patient.
US08550994B2 Surgical access system and related methods
A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site.
US08550992B2 Two-part access assembly
An assembly for accessing a body cavity through an opening in tissue is provided. The access assembly includes a flexible outer sleeve configured to be received through an opening in tissue. The outer sleeve defines a passageway therethrough. The access assembly further includes an inner core configured for selective reception within the passageway of the outer sleeve. The inner core defines at least a first lumen configured to receive a surgical instrument therethrough.
US08550987B2 Electronic endoscope apparatus
An electronic endoscope apparatus having a scope and a processor. The processor includes a plurality of image processing means and a first setting means. Each of the image processing means performs different image processing. ON/OFF of functions and/or parameters used for the processing are set individually with respect to each of the image processing means. The scope includes a memory having at least one area configured to store ON/OFF setting of the function of each of the image processing means and/or a value of the processing parameter used for each processing. The first setting means of the processor reads information stored in the area of the memory of the scope to set the function of each of the image processing means to ON or OFF and supply a predetermined parameter to each of the image processing means based on the information.
US08550985B2 Applications of LIPSS in polymer medical devices
Medical devices have material that that has a laser induced periodic surface structure (LIPSS) pattern on at least a portion thereof. The LIPSS pattern is provided by exposing a material surface to a pulsed polarized laser energy fluence below the ablation threshold. The LIPSS pattern is useful for purposes such as reducing contact areas on sliding surfaces, increasing total surface area for adhesions, providing anisotropic reinforcement of a material layer or layers, and to provide multiple channels for directing cell growth.
US08550984B2 Insertion auxiliary implement
An insertion auxiliary implement of the present invention includes: a tubular part into which a flexible endoscope insertion part which is insertable into a body cavity, and one of a treatment tool and a channel into which the treatment tool is insertable, are insertable; and a sealing member which has through holes for supporting the endoscope insertion part and one of the treatment tool and the channel in the tubular part, and which airtightly and movably contacts each of a periphery of the endoscope insertion part, a periphery of the treatment tool or a periphery of the channel, and an inner surface of the tubular part, and thereby maintains airtightness between a distal end and a proximal end inside the tubular part.
US08550981B2 Implantable port with vibratory feedback
A system includes an adjustable gastric band coupled with an injection port. The port includes sensors, a plate beneath a septum, and a vibration generator in communication with the sensors. A first sensor detects palpation through a patient's skin when the injection port is implanted in the patient. The vibration generator provides a vibratory response to detected palpation, thereby providing haptic feedback to a physician who is attempting to locate the injection port by palpating the patient. A second sensor detects a needle striking the plate, and the vibration generator provides a vibratory response to a detected needle strike. The vibration generator thereby provides haptic feedback to a physician to confirm that the needle has been successfully inserted through the septum. A pressure sensor may be used to provide vibratory feedback to the patient to indicate that an adjustment to the band is needed.
US08550980B2 Kit for levator avulsion repair
Kits for treating pelvic conditions such as levator avulsion, by placing an implant between an anterior incision and a posterior incision to support the levator tissue are described. A kit comprises an implant (70) comprising a support portion and two end portions extending from the support portion, two insertion tools comprising a needle comprising a helical curve and one insertion tool (54) comprising a needle (58) comprising a two-dimensional curve.
US08550978B2 System for and method of controlling playback of audio signals
A system (1) and method for controlling the reproduction of audio signals via the monitoring of the state of relaxation of a person, wherein at least one physiological characteristic of the person is detected by means of a sensor (14), which characteristic assumes different values depending on different sleep phases of the person and wherein different sleep phases are recognized on the basis of at least one detected changing physiological characteristic by means of an analysis device (19) and wherein the speed for the reproduction of audio signals is changed on the basis of the at least one detected changing physiological characteristic and wherein the reproduction of the audio signals is terminated by a control unit (22) after a certain sleep phase of the person has commenced.
US08550977B2 Integrated implantable hearing device, microphone and power unit
An implantable hearing unit is provided that includes an implantable microphone, a rechargeable power storage device and a speech signal processor. The hearing unit further includes a signal coupling device that is adapted for electrical interconnection to an implantable auditory stimulation device, which is operative to stimulate an auditory component of a patient. Such a stimulation device may include cochlear implants, brain stem stimulation systems, auditory nerve stimulation systems, and middle or inner ear transducer systems. The signal coupling device is operative to provide processed drive signals from the signal processor to the stimulation device as well provide power from the power storage device to operate the stimulation device. In one arrangement, the signal coupling device is a wireless coupling between first and second coils. In such an arrangement, the hearing unit may be utilized with an existing implanted stimulation device to make that device a fully implanted hearing system.
US08550975B2 Heart assist apparatus
The apparatus for implantation into a human heart comprises a pump (1) having an electrical motor (12), an inlet (9) for blood to be located in a first chamber of the heart; an outlet (10) for blood to be located in a second chamber of the heart; fixing means (2) for fixing the apparatus to a wall of the heart with the inlet in the first chamber and the outlet in the second chamber, an elongate conduit (7) which extends from the fixing means to the pump, and an electrical conductor (18) for connecting to the motor, the conductor extending along the conduit.
US08550974B2 Sub-miniature electromechanical medical implants with integrated hermetic feedthroughs
Highly miniaturized electromechanical medical implants for certain applications cannot be fit into the available anatomic space unless their diameter can be made small enough. With devices such as rotary blood pumps or linear actuators, using rotary or linear electric motors, a thin motor stator that provides sufficient power must be encased in a corrosion resistant hermetically sealed enclosure into which electric wires must pass. Hermetic feedthroughs of the prior art are not structurally suited to maximal miniaturization with optimal electrical properties because of the need for welding of ferrules or other support components. The sub-miniature medical implants having the robust feedthrough of the present invention integrate the feedthrough wires, insulators, and sealing within a radially extending flange that is part of the end wall of the motor enclosure. This permits the largest feedthrough wire and thickest insulator to be built into the limited available space.
US08550965B2 Abdominal exercise device
An exercise device that allows a user to strengthen the entire anatomical core muscles with a lightweight, compact, and portable design. A device includes a housing that is substantially spherical in shape with a hollow portion therein. The housing has at least one protrusion. A ball that is substantially spherical in shape is positioned within said hollow portion such that said housing at least partially encloses the ball therein. A plurality of bearings are disposed between said housing and said ball. The bearings contact the housing and the ball, thereby allowing said housing to rotate about said ball. A plurality of handles detachably connect to the at least one protrusion.
US08550963B1 Leg exercise assembly
An assembly is structured to facilitate exercise of at least the legs of a user especially, but not exclusively, when the user is in an at least partially seated orientation. A plurality of support members are disposed and structured to movably and at least partially support a different foot of the user. Drive linkage is driven by a drive member and interconnected drive motor and is interconnected in driving relation to one or both of the support members by connector structure associated therewith. Cooperative structuring between drive member, drive linkage and connector structure results in linear, oppositely directed, reciprocal travel of the support members relative to one another, while engaging and supporting the feet of the user, upon actuation of the drive motor.
US08550961B2 Active damping tip-in clutch control of a vehicle transmission
A method for controlling an input clutch of a vehicle transmission during a tip-in includes using a current gear and rate of change of transmission input speed to determine a first torque modifier, if a peak or trough occurred in input speed, using the current gear and a difference between measured input speed and expected input speed to determine a second torque modifier, and changing a torque capacity of the clutch using said modifiers.
US08550960B2 Method for the operation of a clutch of a hydrodynamic torque converter
A clutch of a hydrodynamic torque converter, which connects the drive input of the hydrodynamic torque converter to the drive output of the hydrodynamic torque converter, is actuated in a disengaging direction when a power at an auxiliary power take-off in a vehicle exceeds a predefined value.
US08550956B2 Planetary gear unit
A planetary gear unit inside a case includes coaxial sun and ring gears, a planetary pinion gear that meshes with the sun and ring gears, and a carrier that holds the planetary pinion gear, the ring gear being fixed with respect to the case, and a flange disposed inward of the ring gear. The ring gear is fixed to a case wall, via the flange, the wall extending radially inward, and the flange being prevented from rotating with respect to the wall by a rotation prevention mechanism. The rotation prevention mechanism includes a plurality of case holes on the same circle in the wall, flange holes in the flange at positions corresponding to the case holes, and rotation prevention members fitted into the case and flange holes to prevent rotation of the flange with respect to the wall with the flange relatively movable axially with respect to the wall.
US08550955B2 Pin for planetary gear system
A pin for coupling a planet gear to a carrier in a planetary gear system is disclosed. The pin includes a first end, a second end, and an outer surface extending between the first end and the second end. In some embodiments, the pin further includes means for modifying the compliance of the pin at an interface between the pin and the carrier. In other embodiments, the pin further include a compliance feature defined in the outer surface, the compliance feature allowing greater compliance of the pin in the tangential direction than in the radial direction.
US08550952B2 Self-contained hydraulic torque modulating device
A torque modulating coupling device for operatively linking two shafts has a clutch and a piston disposed in a case. The piston selectively applies force to the clutch in response to hydraulic pressure, and a keyed feature adapted to couple with a corresponding keyed feature associated with at least one of the shafts. The coupling device can be formed with two cases that form an enclosure for the clutch and the piston, trapping the piston forces between the cases. This embodiment allows the device to also act as an axle housing cover. In another embodiment, the case is designed to bolt directly to an axle housing cover, trapping piston forces between the case and the cover.
US08550944B2 Multi-speed sprocket assembly
A multi-speed sprocket assembly configured to receive a bicycle chain including a plurality of pairs of inner link plates, a plurality of pairs of outer link plates and plurality of rollers connecting the pairs of inner and outer link plates. The multi-speed sprocket assembly generally includes a smaller diameter sprocket and a larger diameter sprocket rotated about a rotation axis in a driving direction. The smaller and larger diameter sprockets include first and second pluralities of teeth spaced about their peripheries, respectively. The larger diameter sprocket has an inboard side including first and second projections axially extending therefrom. The second projection is disposed circumferentially aft, opposite the driving direction, and radially outwardly of the first projection. The first and second projections simultaneously support one outer link plate as the bicycle chain shifts from the smaller diameter sprocket to the larger diameter sprocket.
US08550931B1 Golf club head with alignment markings
A golf club putter having an alignment pattern is disclosed herein. The alignment pattern has first and second long lines that approach each other as they extend from an aft region of the putter to a front region of the putter and, when the putter is properly aligned with a golf ball, create an optical illusion of convergence of said lines at or near a center of the golf ball without actually intersecting.
US08550930B1 Relative hip motion athletic training device and method
A sport training device wearable by a human user, includes an oblong resilient, flexible member diagonally connecting one side of a shoulder harness to the opposite side of a separate hip harness. The member is tensioned in the user's upright, untwisted standing position. During a swing or a baseball-type pitching action, as the user's hips properly rotate with respect to the user's shoulders, the tension reduces thus encouraging and indicating to the user the preferred relative hip rotation action. Adjustments are provided adjust the length and tension of the resilient member. A member which deflects uniformly under a compressive load can be used as a measuring device of the relative angle between the hip and shoulder.
US08550921B2 Network gaming system
A gaming system is disclosed that provides an opportunity to win a prize in response to game play, each game being played in exchange for monetary input. The gaming system includes a game server and a plurality of game units connected via a network. The game server stores one or more games. The game units each include a web browser. The game system enables a player to receive a prize at a game unit in response to winning game play. The gaming system enables game units to request games from the game server over the network. The games may be downloaded over the network from the game server to the requesting game unit to be executed at the game unit and to be displayed in one or more web browsers.
US08550919B2 Game control program, game device, game server, and game control method
A game server includes: a multiplayer play request acknowledging unit operative to acknowledge, from a game device of a player, a request for a multiplayer play where a game is played between a game device of a requesting player and a game device of another player; a selection unit operative to select a first mode or a second mode of multiplayer play, the first mode being a mode where a multiplayer play is played with a player accepting the request for a multiplayer play, and the second mode being a mode where a selected player is forced to play in a multiplayer play; a friendly mode matching unit and a hostile mode matching unit operative to refer to a player database storing information on players and select a player to play the requested multiplayer play; and a requesting unit operative to notify the selected player's game device of the selected mode and requests the game device thus notified to start the requested multiplayer play.
US08550917B2 System for downloading real-time interaction data through mobile and broadcast converged networks and method thereof
A system for downloading real-time interaction data and a method thereof are provided. The system includes a real-time interaction data management server farm, a network equipment, a carousel server, and at least one terminal device. The real-time interaction data management server farm processes real-time interaction data and manages a plurality of real-time data packages thereof. The network equipment provides a unidirectional broadcast network and a bidirectional mobile network as media for transmitting the real-time data packages. The carousel server receives the real-time data packages and transmits the real-time data packages in a carousel delivery method, a single-pass delivery method or a carousel and single-pass delivery method through the unidirectional broadcast network. The terminal device receives the real-time data packages through the unidirectional broadcast network or requests and receives the real-time data packages through the bidirectional mobile network. Thereby, the real-time interaction data can be quickly downloaded in a mobile environment.
US08550916B2 Interactive game systems and methods including a transceiver and transponder receptor
A game system comprises a computer manager system adapted to manage gaming activity of one or more players, a transceiver in operative communication with the computer manager system and one or more transponders or transponder/receptor units in operative communication with the transceiver. Each transponder/receptor unit includes a transponder and a receptor. The transceiver is adapted to enable wireless communication between each transponder or transponder/receptor unit and the computer manager system within a distance that is within a range detectable by said transponder/receptor units and the computer manager system.
US08550915B2 Game controller with adapter duplicating control functions
A video game controller for a video game and a receptor assembly may include a controller core unit including a housing formed with a top, bottom and opposite sides, at least the top having a plurality of control buttons thereon; and a base portion provided with a first connector; a receptor having a shape substantially similar to a component appearing in the video game. The receptor may be a gun-shaped sub-unit with a barrel portion and a gripper portion with an open slot adapted to receive the core unit.
US08550913B2 Gaming machine having a curved display with a video switcher and touch router system
Gaming machines projecting video images onto a curved display are disclosed herein. A display manager receives one or more video signals from a controller and one or more video signals from the system device and displays one or multiple video signals on the curved display. The display manager sends the multiple video signals to a projector which projects the multiple video signals on the curved display. The curved display may be split between multiple signals, or one or more signals may overlay one or more background signals. The overlaid signals may completely obscure the background signals, or they may provide a level of transparency by allowing the background signal to be partially or completely visible. The display manager the video signals regarding how to split, overlay, superimpose, and otherwise share the display among the video input signals.
US08550912B2 Gaming machine having a display and speaker system with light piping material
Gaming machines having video depictions of one or more mechanical reels projected onto a curved display are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the gaming machine includes a curved transparent material having an outer surface, an inner surface, and a radius of curvature similar to a mechanical reel. The gaming machine also includes a light emitting diode projector for projecting video images of one or more reels onto the inner surface of the curved transparent material. The gaming machine also includes a light piping material positioned in front of the curved transparent material for illumination of the display. The gaming machine further includes light piping material placed in front of speakers associated with the gaming machine for illumination of the speakers. The illumination of the display or speakers may be synchronized with sound.
US08550909B2 Geographic data acquisition by user motivation
Architecture that motivates and utilizes users as the means for capturing geographical data of a desired location. The architecture incentivizes users (e.g., large numbers of mobile-phone and mobile-computer users) to provide the data in the form of geolocation information trails and images captured by user devices. Thus, users take multiple pictures, for example, and can validate existing coverage of specific points of interest based on variable needs of the requestor. One motivational technique is by using augmented reality (AR) games, which include shooting targets associated with the point of interest (e.g., a street). Thus, the game can be designed for the data accumulation, which includes visual data. Additionally, the architecture can determine the areas or points of interest for validation and/or additional coverage by comparing live video data to an image database to decide of the need for update.
US08550905B2 Temperature feedback motion controller
Methods and systems for providing thermal feedback are presented. In one embodiment, a controller for interfacing with an interactive program includes an outer surface having a plurality of first surface regions and one or more second surface regions. The second surface regions are arranged in an alternating and adjacent fashion with the first surface regions. A heating source is coupled to the plurality of first surface regions, and a cooling source is coupled to the second surface regions. A thermal controller is provided for determining when to activate the heating source to heat the first surface regions and when to activate the cooling source to cool the second surface regions, based on thermal trigger data generated by the interactive program.
US08550904B2 Gaming system and method comprising asynchronous trigger of the N-th unit prize
A wagering game system includes a game controller configured to determine an eligibility threshold trigger for an n-th unit prize and add, for each connected wagering game machine, a set of discrete eligibility units to a discrete eligibility units counter responsive to an input wager at the respective wagering game machine. The game controller evaluates a subset of the set of discrete eligibility units at a selected wagering game machine against the eligibility threshold trigger to determine if the eligibility threshold trigger is satisfied by that wagering game machine and to subtract the subset of the discrete eligibility units from the discrete eligibility units counter at the selected wagering game machine. The game controller evaluates the subset of discrete eligibility units against the eligibility threshold trigger and awards the n-th unit prize if the discrete eligibility units in the subset of discrete eligibility units satisfies the eligibility threshold trigger.
US08550902B2 Gaming system and a method of gaming
A method of gaming comprising: receiving a bet from a player; awarding to the player an entitlement to a plurality of game outcomes in exchange for the bet; determining that the player has exhausted the entitlement; and determining, subsequent to exhaustion of the entitlement, whether the player is entitled to an award based, at least in part, on at least one of the game outcomes.
US08550895B2 Wagering a potential future award for a greater award opportunity
A wagering game has an overall payback percentage and a portion of the wagering game has a default expected value. A gamble feature is offered to the player prior to play of the portion of the wagering game but after a wager has been received. The gamble feature has a possibility of a successful outcome or an unsuccessful outcome. The outcome of the gamble feature affects the default expected value for the portion of the wagering game. The default expected value of the portion of the wagering game is altered based on the outcome of the gamble feature. The portion of the wagering game is conducted using the altered expected value.
US08550894B2 Method and system for networked bingo
Methods and systems for facilitating networked bingo matches are presented. Bingo cards may be generated by distributing symbols from a set of symbols into grid positions on each card. One or more patterns of marked positions on a bingo card may be pre-defined. An example embodiment includes the ability for a client devices to join a networked bingo game, each being associated with one or more potentially different special symbols. When a client device achieves a pre-defined pattern of marked positions on one or more of the client device's cards where one of the client device's special symbols is used to complete the pre-defined pattern(s), the client device may be awarded a prize.
US08550893B2 Trajectory-based 3-D games of chance for video gaming machines
Trajectory-based games of chance are described that may be implemented on a video gaming machine. In a trajectory-based game of chance, a trajectory of a game object may be generated in a 3-D gaming environment. A wager may be made on an aspect of the game object's trajectory in the gaming environment such as a termination location for the trajectory of the game object. The aspect of the game object's trajectory may occur according to a known probability. Hence, an award for the trajectory-based game of chance may be proportional to the probability of the aspect of the game object's trajectory occurring.
US08550892B2 Casino game with pay line multipliers
A pay line multiplier is randomly selected for each active pay line. The pay line multiplier varies for each round of play. An extra wager may be required from the player to activate this feature during the play of a casino game. A player makes a wager to activate at least two pay lines to be played in the casino game. For each active pay line, a multiplier is randomly selected from a group of various multipliers and the selected multiplier is assigned to the activated pay line. The casino game is then played to achieve an outcome on each pay line. Each pay line that has a winning outcome has any associated award increased by the multiplier for that pay line.
US08550890B1 Electronic fantasy sports system and method
A system that includes a processor, and computer executable instructions readable by the processor and operative to solicit or receive a selection to fill a coach position on a fantasy team, wherein the selection comprises a selection of a coach of a sports team, a member of the sports team, or a unit of the sports team to fill the coach position on the fantasy team, and determine a coach's score based on at least one on-field or off-field action or statistic of the sports team, the member of the sports team, or the unit of the sports team.
US08550889B2 Game device, method and information storage medium for controlling game device based on game situations
A display control section (72) controls a display unit to display an image on which a first axis corresponding to first information about a situation of a game and a second axis corresponding to second information about a situation of the game are set. A receiving section (74) receives an operation for specifying a position or an area in the image. A first condition relating to the first information and a second condition relating to the second information are acquired based on the results of reception by the receiving section (74). A game-character control section (84) controls the action of the at least one game character in a case where the results of determinations of whether or not the first information and the second information about the current situations of the game respectively satisfy the first condition and the second condition are predetermined results.
US08550888B2 Actuator for a fan-powered damper
An HVAC (heating, ventilating and air conditioning) damper includes a series of pivotal damper blades that are opened by an air pressure differential across opposite sides of the damper. In some embodiments, a fan discharging against the damper blades provides the necessary air pressure to open the damper. To control how far the damper opens, an actuator moves a variable position abutment that obstructs the damper blades to limit how far they can pivot in the open direction. The position of the abutment is infinitely adjustable to provide the damper with infinite adjustment over a range of open positions. In some embodiments, the abutment applies a unidirectional torque to the damper blades regardless of whether the damper is opening or closing.
US08550886B2 Ventilation device for a vehicle interior
A ventilation device is for ventilating a motor vehicle interior. The ventilation device comprises an air supply channel and an outflow region. The outflow region is provided with a first component and a second component which can be brought into at least one first state of displacement and a second state of displacement in relation to each other, in order to generate a first air flow and a different second air flow. The first component and the second component have a first lamella structure and a second lamella structure, according to the state of displacement, for producing a first air flow and a second air flow with different opening angles.
US08550884B2 Chain saw sharpener
A chain saw sharpening device having a generally U-shaped frame defined by an upper web and first and second parallel side walls for overlying the chain and the guide bar of the chain saw. The frame includes an open area near the center of the upper web defining a sharpening area. Clamping screws are associated with the frame to secure the frame to the cutting bar and an additional clamping screw is associated with the frame for engaging the link of the tooth to be sharpened in order to fix its position with respect to the sharpening area of the frame. A rotary burr having an abradant surface is receivable in either of two diagonally disposed, independently removable bore guides for sharpening left-hand and right-hand cutting teeth.
US08550883B2 Abrasion apparatus
An apparatus for machining a spectacle lens by abrasion of material in the area of a joining surface to be formed is provided. The apparatus comprises a tool provided with a cutting end face whose axis of rotation is movable in a forward direction relative to a holding device and covers a reference plane. The holding device comprises a support surface, a contact surface aligned perpendicularly thereto and a stop edge. The support surface and the contact surface extend perpendicularly to the reference plane and the stop edge extends perpendicularly to the support surface and in parallel to the reference plane and has a distance from the reference plane which is variable. The support surface is interrupted such that the projecting end face of the tool can be moved along the interruption. When provided at its machining position the lens rests on the support surface, contacts the contact surface and abuts with its edge against the stop edge. When the distance of the stop edge from the reference plane is adjusted to a value predetermined for the lens to be machined, the joining surface is formed by means of the tool exactly at the location of the joining surface predetermined for the lens.
US08550878B2 Method of manufacture of constant groove depth pads
Processing pads for mechanical and/or chemical-mechanical planarization or polishing of substrates in the fabrication of microelectronic devices, methods for making the pads, and methods, apparatus, and systems that utilize and incorporate the processing pads are provided. The processing pads include grooves or other openings in the abrading surface containing a solid or partially solid fill material that can be selectively removed as desired to maintain the fill at an about constant or set distance from the abrading surface of the pad and an about constant depth of the pad openings for multiple processing and conditioning applications over the life of the pad.
US08550865B2 Spark plug manufacturing method
A spark plug manufacturing method provides a reduction in the cost of raw material preparation and the cost of the disposal of unused powder by recycling powder not used in forming a filler layer of another spark plug. The method is used to make a spark plug that includes a metal shell having a through hole, and an insulating body held inside the through hole, and a filler layer containing talc in a space surrounded by an inner peripheral surface of the through hole and an outer peripheral surface of the insulating body. The powder not used in a process of forming a filler layer of another spark plug is recycled for forming the filler layer of the present spark plug, where the forming process is performed after talc and a binder are mixed.
US08550859B2 Close proximity panel mount connectors
Close proximity panel mount connectors include a first and a second connector body, each provided with a connection interface at an interface end, a mounting flange with a planar surface at a mounting end, a fastener tab of the mounting flange provided with a tab fastener hole at a male side of the connector body and a fastener slot of the mounting flange formed at a female side of the connector body, a slot fastener hole provided through the mounting flange to the fastener tab slot. The fastener tab of the first connector body seats within the fastener slot of the second connector body when the male side of the first connector body is seated adjacent to the female side of the second connector body, coaxially aligning the tab fastener hole of the first connector body and the slot fastener hole of the second connector body.
US08550856B2 Transfer plug assembly
A transfer plug assembly includes a first plug, first flexible link, second flexible link, and a second plug. A first end of each the first flexible link and the second flexible link are connected to two lateral sides of the first plug respectively. A second end of each the first flexible link and the second flexible link are connected to two lateral sides of the second plug respectively. The second plug serves to connect the first plug. Through the linking of the first and second flexible links, the second plug will hang around the first plug and is accessible nearby. The flexible linking of the first and second links will provide free movability between the first plug and the second plug.
US08550854B2 Edge connector
An edge connector is disclosed, having a configuration in which board contacting portions of terminals coming into contact with both ends of the board are displaced, an overall spring portion of each terminal applying an biasing force to the board contacting portions are displaced, and the surface of a cover member displacing the spring portion is configured as a sloped surface. Due to this configuration, it is possible to apply a stable biasing force to the board contacting portion without plastically deforming the terminals and to bring the board contacting portion of the terminal into secure contact with the board even when the thickness of the board varies greatly.
US08550853B2 Electrical connector
In one aspect, provided is an electrical connector that can improve reliability of signal connection by ensuring insulation between adjacent terminals. In one aspect, connector housing 2 has front housing 3 and rear housing 4 that are combined together during assembly and that have respective partition walls 10 and 11 to define terminal accommodation chambers 8 and 9, respectively, and wherein movable wall 15 is provided to extend from partition wall 11 of rear housing 4 to displace and connect to partition wall 10 of front housing 3 when both housings 3 and 4 are combined together.
US08550849B2 Connector and connecting object
A connector is configured to be mated with and connected to a mating connector in a state where the connector is attached to an FPC having a principal surface on which a signal terminal and a ground terminal are arranged. The connector comprises a housing, a plurality of contacts held by the housing, a cover shell partially covering the housing and a lock bar supported by the housing and/or the cover shell so as to be turnable. Each of the contacts has an exposed portion connectable to the signal terminal of the connecting object. The cover shell has a grounded portion connectable to the ground terminal of the connecting object. The lock bar is configured to lock a mating state where the connector is mated with the mating connector.
US08550847B2 Electrical connector
An electrical connector includes an insulation pedestal, an outer cover, an enhanced shell and a plurality of terminals partially embedded in the insulation pedestal. The insulation pedestal includes a main body and a tongue section. The enhanced shell includes a fixed side and a support side. The fixed side is embedded in the main body; and the tongue section is partially covered by the support side such that the support side can support the tongue section. The insulation pedestal is integratedly formed together with the terminals and the enhanced shell to strengthen the structure of the tongue section.
US08550844B2 Fluidproof connector
A waterproof (10) is provided with a capacitor (40); two busbars (35) connected via the capacitor (40). Each busbar (35) includes tabs (36), a coupling (37) connecting the tabs (36), and a connecting portion (38) connected to an electrode of the capacitor (40). A housing (11) houses the busbars (35) and the capacitor (40) and is open only in one direction. The housing (11) holds the terminal fittings inserted through an opening (12) of the housing (11) to be connected to the tabs (36) of the busbars (35). A seal (50) is press-fit into the housing (11) through the opening (12) and has through holes (51) through which the wires are closely inserted. A holder (60) having wire insertion holes (63) corresponding to the through holes (51) is mounted to cover the opening (12) of the housing (11) to retain and hold the seal (50).
US08550843B2 Tabbed connector interface
An electrical connector interface has a male portion and a female portion. The male portion provided with at least three outer diameter radial projecting connector tabs and a conical outer diameter seat surface at an interface end. A lock ring provided with a stop shoulder and at least three radial inward coupling tabs at the interface end seats around the male portion, the stop shoulder abutting the connector tabs, a tab seat provided between the coupling tabs and the stop shoulder. The female portion provided with at least three outer diameter radial projecting base tabs and an annular groove open to the interface end with an outer sidewall dimensioned to mate with the conical outer diameter seat surface. The base tabs engage the coupling tabs when the lock ring is rotated to insert the base tabs into the tab seat, retaining the outer diameter seat surface against the outer sidewall.
US08550840B2 Plug and receptacle arrangement with connection sensor
An electrical connector monitoring system for a plug and receptacle assembly, that includes a plug connected to the plug assembly, a recess located within the plug, an electrically insulative layer disposed in the recess, a wear member disposed on the plug that at least partially traverses the insulated recess and in electrical contact with the plug, a contact member movably connected with a receptacle of the receptacle, and a signal device in electrical connection through a circuit with the plug, wear member, and contact member when the plug is fully seated within the receptacle.
US08550837B2 Electrical connector and electrical connector assembly
A configuration in which a stand-alone plug connector is directly fitted to the wall of a product case, and in the fitting state of the stand-alone plug connector, the contact part of a contact comes in contact with the contact part of a wiring pattern conductive path exposed on the surface of a fit connecting hole, and the electrical connection of a signal transmitting medium can be performed in a simple configuration.
US08550835B2 Connector having a nut-body continuity element and method of use thereof
A connector having a nut-body continuity element is provided, wherein the nut-body continuity element electrically couples a nut and a connector body, thereby establishing electrical continuity between the nut and the connector body. Furthermore, the nut-body continuity element facilitates grounding through the connector, and renders an electromagnetic shield preventing ingress of unwanted environmental noise.
US08550831B2 Connector housing with an opening for holding another connector housing for providing movements in three mutually perpendicular directions
A collective connectors housing includes a first housing having a connector insertion opening to receive one or more connectors and configured to hold the one or more connectors in the connector insertion opening so as to be movable in a first direction perpendicular to a connector insertion direction; and a second housing having a housing insertion opening to receive the first housing and configured to hold the first housing so as to be movable in a second direction perpendicular to both the connector insertion direction and the first direction.
US08550830B1 Connector for interconnecting three busway at its three ends
A connector for interconnecting three busway sections is described. The connector includes a stack of substantially “T” shaped plate conductors. At least two of the plate conductors are separated from one another by an insulator plate. The stack has a first end configured to couple to a first busway section, a second end configured to couple to a second busway section, and a third end configured to couple to a third busway section. The connector includes a top cover plate, a bottom cover plate, a top insulator plate, and a bottom insulator plate. The top insulator plate couples the top cover plate to the stack and the bottom insulator plate couples the bottom cover plate to the stack.
US08550827B1 Multi-sleeve power tips
Consolidated power tips allow a power adaptor to be connected to disparately sized input ports of electronic devices. The consolidated power tips may be sized to balance insertion and pull-out forces for the disparately sized input ports. Deformable members may be added to the consolidated power tips for more desirable insertion and pull-out forces and improved electrical contact. The consolidated power tips may be combined into a multi-sleeve power tip. Each sleeve comprises a device interface for a different set of input ports. Unused sleeves may be retracted into the housing of the power tip. Manual or automatic extension mechanisms may be provided for extending the device interfaces from the housing. The multi-sleeve power tip allows users to interface with a large number of disparate devices without changing power tips.
US08550825B2 Electrical interconnect device
An electrical interconnect device includes a substrate that has opposite first and second outer surfaces. Arrays of conductive elastomeric columns are held by the substrate. Each of the columns has opposite first and second ends. The elastomeric columns are internally conductive between the first and second ends. A shield is mounted exterior of the first outer surface of the substrate with the shield having an insulative carrier that holds an array of conductive pads arranged in a complementary pattern as the array of elastomeric columns. The conductive pads have inner surfaces and outer surfaces. The shield is positioned relative to the substrate such that the inner surfaces of the conductive pads engage the first ends of corresponding elastomeric columns. The outer surfaces are configured to engage corresponding mating contacts of an electrical component.
US08550822B2 Method for estimating examinee attribute parameters in cognitive diagnosis models
A method of determining a mastery level for an examinee from an assessment is disclosed. The method includes receiving one or more of an overall skill level for an examinee, a weight for the overall skill level, a covariate vector for an examinee, and a weight for the covariate vector. An examinee attribute value is computed using one or more of the received values for each examinee and each attribute. The computation of the examinee attribute values can include estimating the value using a Markov Chain Monte Carlo estimation technique. Examinee mastery levels are then assigned based on each examinee attribute level. Dichotomous or polytomous levels can be assigned based on requirements for the assessment.
US08550818B2 System and method for providing and modifying a personalized face chart
A system and method for providing a personalized digital face chart. A digital image of a subject's face is obtained. A facial region of the digital image is identified from a background region of the digital image. A line drawing is generated based on at least the facial region of the digital image. The line drawing is stylized to generate a personalized digital face chart. A user interface configured to accept at least one face chart modification from a user is provided. The personalized digital face chart is modified based on the at least one face chart modification.
US08550816B2 Mandibular manipulator and related methods
Described is a mandibular manipulator instrument as a standalone tool or with associated mouthpiece that includes two interlocking laterally sliding frames including a movable upper and a lower incisor pull, shaped for receiving a patient's central incisor teeth and a pair of pinion shafts for driving the upper and lower incisor pulls. A screw thread is used to provide a precise lateral motion for the sagittal measurement. The mouthpiece is constructed of resilient rubber. The manipulator is positioned and held in the resilient rubber mouthpiece by the two pinions protruding through acoustically tight apertures respective to each pinion's position. The manipulator can be used for other applications in an embodiment without the mouthpiece and/or in combination with a bite registration shape that is part of the manipulator frame.
US08550815B2 Tooth templates for bracket positioning and other uses
Templates are disclosed that permit an orthodontist to accurately place appliances such as bracket shims or brackets on a tooth or teeth at a desired position. The templates can be used for accurately locating the position of other dental or orthodontic procedures, such as varnishing, tooth etching and root canals. The templates are made from a flexible sheet of material adapted to be adhered directly to the surface of the tooth or teeth. The sheet of material is formed with the outline of the tooth or teeth or in the shape of the tooth to allow the template to be posited in a proper, reference position. The sheet of material is also formed with one or more marks indicating the location of the bracket on the tooth, for example one mark indicting the bracket base location and other marks indicating the orientation of the base and bracket slot. The mark indicating the bracket base is punched out or otherwise removed from the sheet to provide a void in the template, enabling the user to directly bond the bracket to the tooth at the location of the void. Also disclosed is a method of verifying the accuracy of the placement of the template on the teeth of a patient.
US08550813B2 No touch pour torch top
An apparatus having a shrouded funnel for fueling. A flow barrier is provided in the funnel that controls vapor release from a fuel canister and allows for refueling of liquid fuel without touching the apparatus.
US08550810B2 Method of controlling a boiler plant during switchover from air-combustion to oxygen-combustion
A method of controlling a boiler plant during a switchover period from an air-combustion mode to an oxygen-combustion mode. The method includes steps of feeding fuel into a furnace of the boiler plant at a rate determined by a fuel feeding scheme, feeding air into the furnace at a rate determined by a descending air feeding scheme, feeding substantially pure oxygen into the furnace at a rate determined by an ascending oxygen feeding scheme, and recirculating flue gas into the furnace at a rate determined by an ascending flue gas recirculating scheme. The fuel feeding scheme, the air feeding scheme and the oxygen feeding scheme are such that the fuel is combusted and the flue gas containing residual oxygen is produced. Also, the fuel feeding scheme, the air feeding scheme and the oxygen feeding scheme are such that the content of residual oxygen in the flue gas is, during at least a portion of the switchover period, greater than during any of the air-combustion mode and the oxygen-combustion mode. The method makes it possible to reduce CO2 emissions and O2 consumption quickly during the short switchover period.
US08550807B2 In-mold punch apparatus and methods
A mold is provided for forming a continuously-extruded parison into a corrugated pipe. The mold includes a mold housing having a plurality of bores, a mold cavity having a plurality of annular corrugations, and a plurality of punches. Each punch is disposed in one of the bores and aligned with one of the annular corrugations of the mold cavity. Each punch is also configured to form an aperture in a corrugation of a corrugated pipe in the mold. A continuous extrusion blow molding system and a method are also provided for forming a hollow plastic product and punching a continuously-extruded, blow molded product before it is released from a mold.
US08550806B2 Molding apparatus
Described herein is a mold. The mold includes a first mold half and a second mold half. A molding cavity is definable between the first mold half and the second mold half within which a molded article is moldable. The mold also includes a core configured to form a seal on the molded article. The first mold half and the second mold half are configured to remain in a mold closed configuration with molding and stripping of the molded article.
US08550802B2 Stacked-layers forming device
There is provided a stacked-layers forming device including a powder layer-forming part for forming a powder layer, an optical device for forming a solidified layer by irradiating a predetermined portion of the powder layer with a light beam and a powder replenishing means for supplying the powder material to above a base on which the powder layer and the solidified layer are stacked or onto an upper surface of a base frame which surrounds the base. The powder replenishing means includes an approximately cylindrical member in which the powder material is charged and a screw member which is installed within the approximately cylindrical member wherein a rotation of the screw member conveys the powder material in the approximately cylindrical member. The stacked-layers forming device of the present invention enables it to not only curb its height since the powder material can be conveyed in a screw manner, but also achieve an improved cycle of the material since the powder material can be conveyed in one direction.
US08550801B2 Imprint apparatus and method
In one embodiment, an imprint apparatus includes a template holding part configured to hold a template for imprint. The apparatus further includes a template moving part configured to move the template to press the template onto a light curing resin on a transfer target substrate or to demold the template from the light curing resin. The apparatus further includes a light source configured to irradiate the light curing resin with light to cure the light curing resin. The apparatus further includes a demold control part configured to control a demold speed or a demold angle of the template, based on a position of a shot region from which the template is to be demolded, when demolding the template from the light curing resin.
US08550799B2 Sterile de-molding apparatus and method
At least one of first and second mold portions defines a mold cavity to receive molten plastic and form therefrom at least one molded part, and is movable relative to the other between (i) a closed position for sealing the mold cavity or cavities and molding at least one part therein, and (ii) an open position defining a fluid passageway between the mold portions and permitting the passage of a fluid sterilant therein. A fluid sterilant source is connectable in fluid communication with the fluid passageway for introducing the sterilant therein in the open position, contacting with the sterilant the surfaces of the first and second mold portions forming the fluid passageway and located adjacent to the at least one mold cavity, but not contacting an interior surface of a molded part within the mold cavity, to sterilize the exposed mold surfaces and thereby prevent contamination of the molded part.
US08550796B2 Variable capacity fluidic machine
An internal gear fluidic machine, in particular a pump for the lubrication circuit of a motor vehicle engine, comprises an operating part including an external gear (2) and an internal gear (4), which is housed within an axial cavity (25) of the external gear (2) and meshes with the latter. The external gear (2) is associated with a translating mechanism (8, 22), arranged to cause an axial sliding thereof relative to the internal gear (4) in order to vary the capacity and the fluid flow rate of the machine. The translating mechanism (8, 22) defines a first capacity, adjustment space (24) in communication with a high pressure chamber (48) of the machine, and a second capacity adjustment space (15) where pressure conditions exist that are dependent on the operating conditions of an element, different from the high pressure chamber (48), of a fluidic circuit in which the machine (1) is connected. The translating mechanism (8, 22) causes the sliding of the external gear (2) in response to the pressure conditions existing in the first or the second capacity adjustment spaces (24, 15), or in response to the combination of the pressure conditions existing in both spaces. The invention also concerns a method of varying the capacity of an internal gear fluidic machine.
US08550792B2 Energy conversion device and method of reducing friction therein
A device configured for converting energy includes a first surface, a second surface configured for moving with respect to the first surface during operation of the device, and a coating disposed on at least one of the first surface and the second surface. The coating includes a first layer of a ceramic alloy represented by the general formula AlMgB14—X, wherein X is present in an amount of from 0 to 70 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the ceramic alloy and is a doping agent selected from the group of Group IV elements and borides and nitrides thereof, and a second layer disposed on the first layer and including carbon in a gradient concentration. The coating has a hardness of from 10 to 20 GPa and a coefficient of friction of less than or equal to 0.12.
US08550791B2 Torsional restraint for jet pump assembly
Disclosed are various torsional restraint systems for torsionally restraining a jet pump assembly, wherein the jet pump assembly includes a riser pipe, a transition assembly on the riser pipe, and a restrainer bracket connecting a first and a second inlet mixer to the riser pipe. The torsional restraint system includes a first contact member operatively attached to a side of the jet pump assembly and a second contact member operatively attached to the side of the jet pump assembly and disposed from the first contact member such that the first and second contact members restrain the riser pipe from rotating about a centerline of the riser pipe.
US08550779B2 Assembly for sealing a roller bearing
An assembly for sealing an inlet into a to-be-sealed space, comprising the following features: at least one charging electrode that is connectable to one pole of a high voltage source is disposed in a first area of the inlet, an opposing electrode is disposed in a second area of the inlet that lies opposite of the first area, and the electrodes are disposed in a manner aligned with each other such that an influencing zone, which is formed between the electrodes, acts on influencible particles that penetrate from the outside in the direction towards the to-be-sealed space, such that these particles are accelerated in the direction away from the to-be-sealed space.
US08550776B2 Composite vane mounting
A vane includes a composite airfoil having chordwise spaced apart forward and aft dovetail feet at or near leading and trailing edges of the airfoil. Each foot includes a shank connecting a dovetail root to an airfoil base and each root is slidably received in a dovetail slot in an inner vane mount. The dovetail slot has a triangular slot cross section and a flat slot bottom and flat slot pressure and suction side crush faces corresponding to pressure and suction sides of the airfoil. The dovetail root having a triangular root cross section and a flat root bottom and flat dovetail root pressure and suction side crush faces. A biasing means urges the root bottom of the dovetail roots away from the slot bottom and presses and preloads the dovetail root pressure and suction side crush faces against the slot pressure and suction side slot crush faces.
US08550771B2 Inducer for centrifugal pump
An inducer for vertical flow, cryogenic liquid centrifugal pumps comprising a stationary outer housing portion having an inlet and an outlet, the inlet located at a lower end and the outlet located at an upper end, the housing further having an inner wall portion with one or more spiral grooves formed in the inner wall portion, the grooves defining a hollow opening in the inner wall portion that spiral in a first direction, and an inner rotating impeller mounted on a rotating center shaft, the impeller having at least one curved blade which defines a curved, helicoid plane surface in which the slope of the plane increases as the distance from the center axis increases, the impeller rotating in a second direction which is in counter rotation to the first direction.
US08550770B2 Supersonic compressor startup support system
A supersonic compressor includes a fluid inlet, fluid outlet, and a fluid conduit extending therebetween with a supersonic compressor rotor disposed therein. The supersonic compressor rotor includes a first endwall and a plurality of vanes coupled thereto. Each pair of the vanes defines a fluid flow channel. The fluid flow channel defines a flow channel inlet opening and a flow channel outlet opening and includes a throat portion. The supersonic compressor rotor also includes a second endwall and at least one axially translatable fluid control device positioned adjacent to the rotor. The axially translatable fluid control device is configured to obstruct the throat portion and includes at least one axially translatable protrusion insertable into at least a portion of the throat portion.
US08550769B2 Wind turbine with a yaw system and method for the yaw adjustment of a wind turbine
A wind turbine comprising a tower and a nacelle which is rotatably mounted on the tower and whose alignment is adjustable by way of a yaw system, wherein the yaw system has at least one adjusting drive, a rotatable yaw bearing, at least one brake disk and at least two brake units which can exert a braking torque on the brake disk, wherein the at least one of the brake units has a first brake pad with a first coefficient of friction, and at least one of the brake units has a second brake pad with a second coefficient of friction, wherein the first and the second coefficient of friction are different from each other.
US08550765B2 Apparatus and method for receiving and transferring glass substrate plates
An apparatus for transferring and accepting glass substrate plates includes a double fork gripper having two superimposed, individual fork grippers that are movable relative to one another perpendicular to their extension planes. The fork grippers may be inserted simultaneously therewith into a receiving station having at least two depositing planes so that relative movement of the individual fork grippers perpendicular to their extension planes transfers a glass substrate plate to the receiving station and receives another plate from the receiving station.
US08550761B2 Drill pipe handling and moving system
A pipe handling system includes a frame removably coupled to a drilling mast, a gripping arm moveably coupled to the frame, and a grip jaw extending from the gripping arm to engage a drill pipe, wherein the gripping arm and the grip jaw are operable to move a drill pipe from within the drilling mast to a pipe storage area adjacent the drilling mast. Other embodiments include a pipe racker and a setback handling system disposed below the pipe racker to engage a lower end of the drill pipe, the setback handling system including a moveable pipe guide and a rotating table supporting the pipe guide. In some embodiments, the rotating table also supports a pipe mover for moving the drill pipe to desired storage positions in a setback rack. Pipe handling methods are also disclosed.
US08550759B2 Joining element equipped with a plurality of recesses and energy concentrating elements
A joining element to be anchored in an object with the aid of a thermoplastic material and mechanical vibration comprises a sealing portion and a wall anchoring portion. The sealing portion is substantially cylindrical and has a smooth circumferential surface. The wall anchoring portion has a circumferential surface which comprises the thermoplastic material and energy directors. A cross section of the sealing portion envelops the cross section (including energy directors) of the wall anchoring portion and is arranged adjoining to the latter on its proximal side. The joining element is anchored in an opening provided in the object wherein a cross section of the opening corresponds to the cross section of the sealing portion of the joining element such that the latter can be forced into a mouth of the opening resulting in a press fit. For anchoring the joining element in the opening, mechanical vibrations e.g. ultrasonic vibrations are coupled into the joining element and the latter is forced into the opening until at least a distal part of the sealing portion is positioned within the opening. Thereby, the thermoplastic material of the circumferential surface of the wall anchoring portion is liquefied and pressed into the opening wall, wherein the sealing portion prevents the liquefied material to penetrate through the mouth and therefore the mouth remains clear cut, i.e. does not get blurred by the liquefied material.
US08550758B2 Device and method for restraining cargo
A stackable device for engaging an elongated support for restraining cargo in a container having a pair of opposed walls and configured to transfer to shear stress at least some of the tensile force applied by the elongated support. The stackable device invertably stackable with an other stackable device.
US08550757B2 Flexible truck bed tie-down system
A flexible cargo bed tie-down system allows the user to easily change, adjust, customize, and adapt his or her vehicle to specific needs at any given moment, and interfaces with the rest of the vehicle in an optimum manner from a functional, structural, and aesthetic standpoint. One embodiment of the invention provides a vehicle having a side wall construction enclosing a cargo bed at a side of the cargo bed. The side wall construction includes an outer portion which runs generally vertically at an outer portion of the vehicle, and a top portion which runs generally horizontally from the outer portion toward a longitudinal center of the vehicle. A tie-down rail is mounted adjacent to the top portion such that a part of the top portion overhangs at least a portion of the tie-down rail. The tie-down rail is configured to accept a tie-down fitting and includes a slotted opening generally aligned with an interior edge of the top portion.
US08550756B2 Drill bit for drilling having at least two cutting edges, each with two cutting portions and a non-cutting portion between the two cutting portions
A drill bit for drilling having at least two cutting edges, each with two cutting portions and a non-cutting portion between the two cutting portions. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.
US08550755B2 Tap driver for rigid/synchronous tapping
Disclosed is a tap driver and tap driver system for rigid tapping, which includes a unique flexure system. In some embodiments, an integrated flexure component and housing configuration provides and may provide both a more economical and a universal configuration of the tap driver flexure component that allows the central body to be integrated with and into different types of tap drivers.
US08550754B2 Fully indexable single-sided cutting insert and milling tool
A single-sided tangential cutting insert has a peripheral side surface with N identical major sides. The cutting insert has 360°/N rotational symmetry about an insert axis passing through top and bottom surfaces of the insert, where N is an integer greater than 2 and each major side is located between and merges with an adjacent major side. A cutting edge is formed at the intersection of a relief surface and a rake surface. The rake surface is located in the peripheral side surface and extends in an inward direction of the cutting insert from its associated cutting edge to a side surface of the associated major side. At least a portion of the relief surface is located in the top surface.
US08550750B2 Bioremediation process using liquefied petroleum gas
A method is provided for stimulating anaerobic degradation of a subsurface contaminant, comprising the steps of vaporizing liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to form a treating gas and directing the treating gas to at least one subsurface injection site that includes the subsurface contaminant; wherein the treating gas stimulates anaerobic degradation of at least a portion of the subsurface contaminant.
US08550742B2 Anti-unlock device for connector
An anti-unlock screw device (100) for connector designed to maintain the connection between two connection elements (1, 2), includes a cylindrical sleeve (101) provided with a row of saw-tooth notches (105) arranged on an internal circumference of a rear portion. The device also has an internal ring (106) mounted in the rear portion of the cylindrical sleeve so that it can be positioned between the cylindrical sleeve and the first connection element, the internal ring including at least one catch (107) capable of cooperating with the saw-tooth notches of the cylindrical sleeve. A blocking device (110, 111, 112, 113) keeps the internal ring fixed relatively to the cylindrical sleeve in a first sense of rotation (V) and inversely keeps the internal ring free in rotation relatively to the cylindrical sleeve in a second sense of rotation (DV).