| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08618477B2 |
Method and apparatus for chemical and biological sample separation
The present invention involves a series of shifting reagents that selectively interact with a targeted functional group of biological molecules, pharmaceutical drugs, small molecules, chemicals, chemical agents, or explosives resulting in a structure selective based drift time shift in the IMS. Additional energy is used to enhance the mobility based separation; in particular, the energy level can be tuned. |
| US08618475B2 |
Ion mobility spectrometer with one or more integral ion activation regions
An ion mobility spectrometer comprises a drift tube defining a drift tube inlet configured to receive ions and a drift tube outlet. The drift tube is configured to separate ions in time as a function of ion mobility. The drift tube defines a first ion activation region between the drift tube inlet and the drift tube outlet. The first ion activation region is configured to selectively induce structural changes in at least some of the ions. |
| US08618464B2 |
Device and method for detecting broken glass in a conveyor sterilization tunnel
The invention relates to a device and a method for detecting broken glass in a continuous furnace provided for sterilizing or depyrogenating glass containers, comprising a transport device for the glass containers, wherein the detection device comprises at least one transmission and receiving unit. The receiving unit is designed to detect electromagnetic radiation that can be emitted by the transmission unit. The transport device and the transmission unit and receiving unit are positioned and aligned in relation to each other such that the glass particles or pieces of broken glass resulting from glass breakage cross the radiation path between transmission and receiving unit during or after leaving a substantially horizontal transport plane predetermined by the transport device. |
| US08618462B2 |
Photoelectric transducer device having a rectifier is a second transistor with diode-connected and normally on
An object is to obtain a diode having a small voltage drop and to reduce the fabrication cost of a converter circuit. A photoelectric transducer device including: a photoelectric transducer element; and a converter circuit stepping up or stepping down an output of the photoelectric transducer element and including a switching element and a rectifier, in which the switching element is a first insulated gate bipolar transistor that is normally off and in which the rectifier is a second insulated gate bipolar transistor that is diode-connected and normally on. |
| US08618460B2 |
Solid-state imaging device, manufacturing method thereof, and electronic apparatus
A solid-state imaging device includes: pixels each including a hybrid photoelectric conversion portion and pixel transistors, wherein the hybrid photoelectric conversion portion includes a semiconductor layer having a p-n junction, a plurality of columnar or cylindrical hollow-shaped organic material layers disposed in the semiconductor layer, and a pair of electrodes disposed above and below the semiconductor layer and the organic material layers, wherein charges generated in the organic material layers through photoelectric conversion move inside the semiconductor layer so as to be guided to a charge accumulation region, and wherein the solid-state imaging device is configured as a back-illuminated type in which light is incident from a surface opposite to the surface on which the pixel transistors are formed. |
| US08618459B2 |
Image sensor array for the back side illumination with junction gate photodiode pixels
The present invention relates to a junction gate photo-diode (JGP) pixel that includes a JGP for accumulating charge in response to impinging photons. The JGP is positioned on a substrate and includes a top n layer, a middle p layer and a bottom n layer forming a n-p-n junction, and a control terminal coupled to the top n layer. Also included is a floating diffusion (FD) positioned on the substrate and coupled to a pixel output line through an amplifier. Also included is a pinned barrier (PB) positioned on the substrate between the JGP and the FD, the PB temporarily blocks charge transfer between the JGP and the FD. The accumulated charge is transferred from the JGP to FD by applying a control voltage to the JGP control terminal. |
| US08618458B2 |
Back-illuminated CMOS image sensors
A back-illuminated image sensor includes a sensor layer disposed between an insulating layer and a circuit layer electrically connected to the sensor layer. An imaging area includes a plurality of photodetectors is formed in the sensor layer and a well that spans the imaging area. The well can be disposed between the backside of the sensor layer and the photodetectors, or the well can be a buried well formed adjacent to the backside of the sensor layer with a region including formed between the photodetectors and the buried well. One or more side wells can be formed laterally adjacent to each photodetector. The dopant in the well has a segregation coefficient that causes the dopant to accumulate on the sensor layer side of an interface between the sensor layer and the insulating layer. |
| US08618452B2 |
Energy management of household appliances
A microwave oven comprises a cooking cavity and a RF generation module configured to deliver microwave energy into the cooking cavity. A controller is operatively associated with the RF generation module. The controller receives and processes a signal indicative of current state of an associated energy supplying utility for determining whether to operate the microwave oven in one of a normal operating mode and an energy savings mode in response to the received signal. The controller is configured to at least temporarily block the signal when the RF generation module is activated if a frequency of the signal is at least partially degraded by a frequency of the RF generation module. |
| US08618449B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling phase of AC power and method of controlling heating element of fixing unit
A method of controlling a phase of an alternating current (AC) power having an AC voltage waveform having a predetermined cycle includes counting a number of times a zero crossing signal has been generated, the zero crossing signal being generated whenever a level of the AC voltage waveform becomes “0”; calculating a half cycle of the AC voltage waveform based on times at which the counted number of times the zero crossing signal has been generated changes; detecting phases that divide an area surrounded by a waveform corresponding to the half cycle of the AC voltage waveform into a predetermined number of equal areas; and generating control pulse signals based on the detected phases. |
| US08618448B2 |
Heated or cooled dishwasher safe dishware and drinkware
An actively heated mug or travel mug is provided. The mug or travel mug can include a body that receives a liquid therein and a heating system at least partially disposed in the body. The heating system can include one or more heating elements that heat a surface of the receiving portion of the body and one or more energy storage devices. The mug or travel mug can include a wireless power receiver that wirelessly receives power from a power source and control circuitry configured to charge one or more power storage elements and to control the delivery of electricity from the one or more power storage elements to the one or more heating elements. The mug or travel mug also can have one or more sensors that sense a parameter of the liquid or sense a parameter of the heating system and communicates the sensed information to the control circuitry. The control circuitry can turn on, turn off, and/or operate the heating element to actively heat at least a portion of the body to maintain the liquid in a heated state generally at a user selected temperature setting based at least in part on the sensed parameter information. The mug or travel mug can also be paired with a remote device or mobile electronic device to send or receive communications or commands. |
| US08618444B2 |
Rotary door heater system
A revolving door deicer/dryer system including a floor grate having a bottom side and a heating system associated with the bottom side of the floor grate. The heating system includes at least one shaped plate and at least one heating element serpentinely routed on the at least one shaped plate. |
| US08618442B2 |
Nozzle housing assembly
A nozzle housing assembly, which is used in a convection heating furnace for a heat treatable glass sheet. The nozzle housing assembly comprises an elongated enclosure, at least one elongated heating resistance in the enclosure for heating convection air, and orifices in a bottom surface of the enclosure for blasting heated convection air against the glass sheet. The enclosure is divided with a flow-throttling partition into a top supply duct and a bottom nozzle box, the heating resistances being housed in the latter. Flow-throttling openings present in the partition are positioned to comply with the location and shape of the heating resistances. |
| US08618438B2 |
Apparatus and method to machine holes
The present invention relates to an apparatus for machining holes, especially to machine holes in a surface of a coated gas turbine airfoil, which apparatus comprises a laser device for laser drilling and an electrode for electrical discharge machining. Further the invention relates to a method to machine a hole into a coated surface with an apparatus of the incipiently mentioned type. Known methods make use of a machine with separate machine heads for laser drilling and electrical discharge machining. By combining these two devices in one machine head the invention gives the possibility to save time and obtain very accurate results. |
| US08618437B2 |
Optical apparatus and manufacturing method thereof
An optical apparatus is disclosed which is capable of adjusting spacing between an optical member and a holding member or between optical members virtually without changing irradiation conditions of laser, and thus achieving reduction of joining time and improvement of positional accuracy at low cost. The apparatus includes an optical member, a thermomelting member, a spacing adjustment member and a holding member in this order. A first weld portion welding the spacing adjustment member and the holding member is formed therebetween, the first weld portion having been formed by heat generation of the holding member irradiated with the laser light transmitted through the optical member, the thermomelting member and the spacing adjustment member, and a second weld portion welding the spacing adjustment member and the optical member is formed therebetween, the second weld portion having been formed by the thermomelting member melted with heat transferred from the holding member. |
| US08618434B2 |
Superalloy repair welding using multiple alloy powders
A method of welding a gas turbine engine substrate composed of a gamma prime precipitation strengthened nickel based superalloy, including the steps of: applying weld beads on the substrate to form a continuous layer the thickness of the weld beads; using a filler material made of a first material exhibiting comparable strength and ductility as the substrate, and a second material exhibiting greater ductility than the substrate; and creating crack propagation mitigating regions within the continuous layer by increasing the percentage of the second material in the crack propagation mitigating regions over the percentage of the second material in the remainder of the continuous layer. |
| US08618433B2 |
Workpiece part discharge system
A machine tool for separative machining of preferably plate-like workpieces, for example, metal sheets, has a workpiece support and a discharge device on the workpiece support. The discharge device discharges workpiece parts produced as products of the separative machining. The discharge device includes two opening sections are adjustable relative to one another in the horizontal Y direction to form a through-opening for discharge of workpiece parts. The opening sections are adjustable into different positions relative to one another in the horizontal Y direction, to form through-openings of different widths for discharge of workpiece parts. |
| US08618432B2 |
Separation system for recyclable material
A separation system includes an air separator that, in one embodiment, primarily receives Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) containing a mixture of relatively light MSW recyclable materials such as plastic, paper, cardboard, plastic containers, and/or metal containers and relatively heavy MSW such as textiles, food waste, yard debris, etc. The air separator blows the relatively light MSW recyclable materials up though a chamber and onto a first conveyor while the other relatively heavy MSW material drops down a chute onto a second conveyor. A separation screen receives the relatively light MSW recyclable materials from the air separator and separates the relatively flat fiber and plastic film materials from the other paper, plastic and metal containers. In another separation stage, an electrostatic emitter is positioned adjacent to a conveyor for applying an electrostatic charge to the fiber and plastic materials. The electrostatic charge causes at least some of the plastic materials to at least partially cling to the conveyor belt while being carried over an end of the conveyor so that the plastic materials do not drop out as far from the conveyor as the fiber materials. |
| US08618430B2 |
Spring operated actuator for an electrical switching apparatus
A spring operated actuator for an electrical switching apparatus. The actuator has a main shaft transmitting the actuation movement to the switching apparatus and has opening spring means and closing spring means. The opening spring means includes an opening torsion spring and the closing means includes a closing torsion spring. The axes of the torsion springs extend in the same direction and at a distance from each other that is less than 20% of the external opening spring diameter. |
| US08618429B2 |
Keypad assembly, and image forming device and data processor incorporating the same
A keypad assembly includes a first keypad element including a first frame element, first elastic elements connecting with the first frame element, keycaps swingably connected to the first frame element via the first elastic elements, and pressing elements protruding downward from the keycaps, and a second keypad element including a second frame element, second elastic elements connecting with the second frame element, keycaps swingably connected to the second frame element via the second elastic elements, and pressing elements protruding downward from the keycaps. |
| US08618424B2 |
Multilayer wiring substrate and method of manufacturing the same
The multilayer wiring substrate includes: a first insulating layer comprising a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; a second insulating layer on the first surface of the first insulating layer; a first wiring pattern on the second surface of the first insulating layer; a second wiring pattern on a surface of the second insulating layer; a first via formed through the first insulating layer; a second via formed through the second insulating layer; and a third wiring pattern formed on the first surface of the first insulating layer and embedded in the second insulating layer, the third wiring pattern having a hole therethrough. A diameter of the hole is smaller than each diameter of the first and second vias. The first via and the second via are connected to each other through a metal filled in the hole of the third wiring pattern. |
| US08618421B2 |
Electronics component embedded PCB
An electronic component embedded printed circuit board is disclosed. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the electronic component embedded printed circuit board is a printed circuit board in which an electronic component is embedded in a core board, and the electronic component includes a silicon layer and a passivation layer, which is formed on one surface of the silicon layer. Here, a center line of the silicon layer and a center line of the core board are placed on a same line. |
| US08618415B2 |
Portable electronic device and method of manufacturing parts thereof
A method of manufacturing a portion of a portable electronic device includes forming a glass fiber laminate sheet to provide a formed glass fiber laminate body, and overmolding a rim on the body. The rim includes a connector for coupling with a complementary part of the portable electronic device. |
| US08618414B2 |
Holding device for an overhead line and overhead line configuration
A holding device has a supporting frame with at least two carrying legs at the respective ends of which is arranged a holding element for accommodating a conductor wire. A holding insulator extends in a longitudinal direction which is mounted between the carrying legs of the supporting frame and which has a free end for fixing to a mast crossbeam. The supporting frame is sized in such a way that the carrying legs extend in the longitudinal direction beyond the free end of the holding insulator. Furthermore, an overhead line configuration has such a specified holding device. With this device, masts which are configured for low rated voltages to be made accessible for carrying conductor wires at high rated voltages. |
| US08618412B2 |
High voltage cable and insulator shield
A plastic shield for a cable and insulator is described having a center section for covering the insulator. The center section has an opening at both its ends for the cable. Proximate each opening is a pivotable flange, where the flange pivots at one end of the flange. An arm extends from each of the cable openings of the center section, and each arm covers the cable exiting the center section. Each arm is pivotally attached to the other end of the associated flange. The length of the flange will typically be about 2-3 inches. The flange allows its associated arm to be moved over a wide range of lateral angles (e.g., up to 45 degrees) and allows the arms to have a lateral offset relative to the center line of the center section and insulator to accommodate a cable that is offset from the center line. |
| US08618405B2 |
Free-space gesture musical instrument digital interface (MIDI) controller
The free-space gesture MIDI controller technique described herein marries the technologies embodied in a free-space gesture controller with MIDI controller technology, allowing a user to control an infinite variety of electronic musical instruments through body gesture and pose. One embodiment of the free-space gesture MIDI controller technique described herein uses a human body gesture recognition capability of a free-space gesture control system and translates human gestures into musical actions. Rather than directly connecting a specific musical instrument to the free-space gesture controller, the technique generalizes its capability and instead outputs standard MIDI signals, thereby allowing the free-space gesture control system to control any MIDI-capable instrument. |
| US08618398B2 |
Stringed instrument practice device
The present invention extends to practice devices for practicing to play stringed instruments. More specifically, the present invention relates to a practice device that may assist a user in learning how to properly finger and play a stringed musical instrument. A user can hold an elongate handle and place one or more of his or her fingers on strings to practice fingerings that are used to play chords/notes. Real instrument strings can be used, helping to strengthen a user's fingertips and get the fingertips accustomed to holding/pinching the instrument strings. Further, the stringed instrument practice device can be portable and sized to fit within the user's hand. Accordingly, a user can realize advantages of the invention and utilize practice methods while the user is “on the go,” riding on a bus, watching television, waiting in line, etc. |
| US08618390B2 |
Adjustable strap-on capotasto with replaceable strap and method of use
Generally disclosed is a capo and related methods of use. Operably, the capo may be secured to the neck of stringed musical instruments to barre its strings. Suitably, the capo may (1) generally feature a replaceable and adjustable strap, (2) be configured for quick relocation among the frets of a stringed musical instrument with a tapering neck, and (3) be configured for quick adjustment of the pressure applied to strings barred thereby. |
| US08618384B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH952833
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH952833. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH952833, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH952833 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH952833. |
| US08618382B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH934079
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH934079. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH934079, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH934079 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH934079. |
| US08618381B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH673389
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH673389. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH673389, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH673389 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH673389. |
| US08618380B2 |
Plants and seeds of corn variety CV963558
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV963558. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV963558, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV963558 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV963558 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV963558. |
| US08618378B1 |
Maize variety hybrid X8M227
A novel maize variety designated X8M227 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X8M227 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X8M227 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X8M227, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X8M227. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X8M227. |
| US08618374B1 |
Maize variety hybrid 10856790
A novel maize variety designated 10856790 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing maize variety 10856790 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into 10856790 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety 10856790, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety 10856790. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety 10856790. |
| US08618373B1 |
Maize variety hybrid 10854130
A novel maize variety designated 10854130 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing maize variety 10854130 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into 10854130 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety 10854130, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety 10854130. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety 10854130. |
| US08618371B1 |
Maize variety hybrid 10924670
A novel maize variety designated 10924670 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing maize variety 10924670 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into 10924670 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety 10924670, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety 10924670. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety 10924670. |
| US08618368B2 |
Soybean variety A1026729
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated A1026729. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety A1026729. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety A1026729 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety A1026729 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods. |
| US08618363B2 |
Soybean cultivar S100322
A soybean cultivar designated S100322 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar S100322, to the plants of soybean cultivar S100322, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar S100322, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar S100322. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S100322. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S100322, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar S100322 with another soybean cultivar. |
| US08618360B2 |
Rice transgenic event 17314 and methods of use thereof
The present invention provides a transgenic rice event 17314 and plants, plant cells, seeds, plant parts, and commodity products derived from event 17314. The present invention also provides polynucleotides specific for event 17314 and plants, plant cells, seeds, plant parts, and commodity products comprising polynucleotides specific for event 17314. The invention also provides methods related to event 17314. |
| US08618358B2 |
Transgenic maize event MON 87427 and the relative development scale
The invention provides transgenic maize event MON 87427 and plants, plant cells, seeds, plant parts, and commodity products derived from event MON 87427. The invention also provides nucleotides specific for transgenic maize event MON 87427 and plants, plant cells, seeds, plant parts, and commodity products comprising nucleotides specific for transgenic maize event MON 87427. The invention also provides methods related to transgenic maize event MON 87427 and to the Roundup® Hybridization System (RHS). The invention also provides a Relative Development Scale useful for monitoring and determining reproductive development in maize that reconciles developmental differences across various maize varieties. This is useful for determining the optimal timing of a treatment regimen in which tassel development stage is an important factor, including various methods in making hybrid seed. |
| US08618354B2 |
Generation of haploid plants and improved plant breeding
Methods and compositions for generating haploid organisms are described. |
| US08618351B2 |
Absorbent articles with improved acquisition rate
A disposable absorbent product (20) such as, e.g. a baby diaper, an adult incontinence pad, a sanitary napkin or the like, includes a liquid pervious topsheet (24), a liquid impervious backsheet (26), and an absorbent core (28) positioned between the topsheet (24) and the backsheet (26). The absorbent core (28) has a liquid receiving surface directed towards said topsheet (24), and the absorbent core (28) is provided with at least one embossing (50) forming a channel for liquid drainage at said receiving surface. Preferably an acquisition layer (40) is provided between the topsheet (24) and the absorbent core (28). The acquisition layer preferably extends into the embossing (50), while a resilient absorbent member (30) is preferably provided between the absorbent core (28) and the acquisition layer (40) in the form of stripes arranged longitudinally spaced along the upper longitudinal sides of the channel (50) formed by the embossing. |
| US08618350B2 |
Absorbent articles with tear resistant film
A disposable absorbent article that includes an elastic film material. The elastic film resists the growth of a tear and include an SEEPS block copolymer having a Tm of between about 10° C. and about 20° C. The film has a time-to-fail of greater than 1 hour. |
| US08618348B2 |
Dressings with a foamed adhesive layer
A dressing suitable for topical application to the body, including a carrier substrate having a first side and opposing second side; and a layer of a foamed adhesive composition applied to the second side of the carrier substrate, where the layer of foamed adhesive composition includes a substantially homogeneous distribution of closed cells having an inert gas contained therein. |
| US08618346B2 |
Process for the destruction of sulfur and nitrogen mustards and their homologous/analogous at ambient conditions
The subject invention provides a potentially economically viable process for the destruction of small to large quantities of sulfur and nitrogen mustards and lewisite, their homologous/analogues, and similar chemical warfare agents at ambient conditions without producing any toxic by-products. The process uses the superoxide ion that is either electrochemically generated by the reduction of oxygen in ionic liquids or chemically by dissolving Group 1 (alkali metals) or Group 2 (alkaline earth metals) superoxides, e.g. potassium superoxide, in ionic liquids. |
| US08618345B2 |
Method of detoxifying a methyl compound
It is an object of the present invention to provide a method of detoxifying a methyl compound comprising arsenic etc., effectively and systematically. The method of detoxifying a methyl compound according to the present invention is characterized in that an organic halogenated compound is reacted with a methyl compound comprising at least one element selected from the groups comprising arsenic, antimony and selenium to convert the methyl compound into more harmless substances. Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment of the method of detoxifying a methyl compound according to the present invention, the method is characterized in that the element is arsenic. |
| US08618342B2 |
Process for the production of alkylbenzenes from an olefinic feedstock produced by oligomerization that is catalyzed homogeneously
A process for the production of a mixture of alkylbenzenes in the presence of an aromatic feedstock and an olefinic stream produced from an ethylene feedstock is described, with said process comprising at least: a) A first stage for oligomerization of said ethylene feedstock that consists of at least one hydrocarbon effluent that comprises a mixture of olefins having a number of carbon atoms that is for the most part between 4 and 30, whereby said mixture of olefins comprises a C10-C24 olefinic fraction that has a mean linearity that is greater than 60%, in the presence of a homogeneous catalytic system, b) A second stage for oligomerization of the effluent that is obtained from said stage a) that consists of at least one hydrocarbon effluent that comprises a mixture of olefins having a number of carbon atoms that is for the most part between 4 and 30, whereby said mixture of olefins comprises a C10-C24 olefinic fraction that has a mean linearity that is less than 50%, in the presence of a homogeneous catalytic system that is identical to or different from the one that is used in said stage a), c) A stage for fractionation of the effluent that is obtained from said oligomerization stage b) in such a way as to recover at least one olefin-enriched olefinic stream having a number of carbon atoms that is greater than or equal to 9, d) A stage for alkylation of said olefinic stream by an aromatic feedstock. |
| US08618341B2 |
Process of producing liquid fuel from cellulosic biomass
A liquid fuel production process from cellulosic biomass comprises the following steps: (1) providing a mixture of cellulose and water; (2) subjecting the obtained mixture to hydrolysis and catalytic hydrogenation under the presence of acid to obtain mono-sugar alcohol and optional solid material lignin, or subjecting the obtained mixture to hydrolysis to obtain monosaccharide; (3) esterifying the obtained mono-sugar with C2-C5 organic acid to obtain a liquid fuel II, or subjecting the obtained mono-sugar alcohol or monosaccharide to dehydration/hydrogenation to obtain an organic liquid fuel I consisting of alkanes. This process avoids the loss of organic carbon atoms during fermentation, and the sugar derived from cellulosic biomass can be converted to organic carbon in the liquid fuel. The lignin produced by the process can be used for preparing aromatics. |
| US08618336B2 |
Process for long-term operation of a heterogeneously catalyzed partial gas phase oxidation of propene to acrolein
A process for long-term operation of a heterogeneously catalyzed partial gas phase oxidation of propene to acrolein, in which the propene present in the reaction gas input mixture is partially oxidized as this gas mixture passes through the fixed catalyst bed which is accommodated in two spatially successive temperature zones A, B, and, in long-term operation, as a measure to counteract the reduction in the quality of the fixed catalyst bed, the temperature of at least one of the two temperature zones is increased such that the difference TB−TA becomes increasingly greater, where TB is the temperature of temperature zone B, and TA the temperature of temperature zone A. |
| US08618334B2 |
Cyclohexanone production process with modified post-distillation
Methods for continuously preparing cyclohexanone from phenol make use of a catalyst having at least one catalytically active metal selected from platinum and palladium. The process includes enriching phenol in a distillation fraction as compared to a subsequent fraction, wherein the subsequent fraction includes phenol and side-products having a higher boiling point than phenol. Distillation is carried out in a vacuum distillation column equipped with trays in the lower part of the column. In an upper part of the column, i.e., in the part above the feed inlet, packing material is present instead of trays in at least part thereof. The packing material has a comparable or improved separating efficiency, and provides a reduction of the pressure drop by at least 30%, preferably more than 50%, as compared to the case with trays in the upper part, under otherwise similar distillation conditions. |
| US08618331B2 |
Polycyclic heteroaryl substituted triazoles useful as axl inhibitors
Polycyclic heteroaryl substituted triazoles and pharmaceutical compositions containing the compounds are disclosed as being useful in inhibiting the activity of the receptor protein tyrosine kinase Axl. Methods of using the compounds in treating diseases or conditions associated with Axl activity are also disclosed. |
| US08618329B2 |
Iminopropene compound and use thereof
The compound (I) or a salt thereof has an excellent controlling activity against pests. Then the compound (I) or a salt thereof is useful for an active ingredient of a pesticidal composition. |
| US08618320B2 |
Lewis acid catalyzed halogenation of activated carbon atoms
A practical and efficient method for halogenation of activated carbon atoms using readily available N-haloimides and a Lewis acid catalyst has been disclosed. This methodology is applicable to a range of compounds and any halogen atom can be directly introduced to the substrate. The mild reaction conditions, easy workup procedure and simple operation make this method valuable from both an environmental and preparative point of view. |
| US08618313B2 |
Intermediates for the preparation of analogs of Halichondrin B
Intermediates and methods of their use in the synthesis of analogs of halichondrin B are provided. |
| US08618310B2 |
Process for preparing n-protected 4-ketoproline derivatives
The present invention is concerned with a process for preparing compounds of the general formula (I). These compounds can preferably be used to prepare bioactive agents. The reaction of the invention starts from the corresponding hydroxy compounds which are oxidized, with Ru catalysis, in a one-phase aqueous system. |
| US08618309B2 |
Sunitinib and salts thereof and their polymorphs
Process for the preparation of sunitinib malate form I via sunitinib acetate and polymorphs of said intermediate. |
| US08618302B2 |
Methods and compositions of targeted drug development
Provided herein are compounds having anti-proliferative effect. Also provided are compounds that can modulate the activity of multi-domain proteins comprising a dimerization arm and interdomain tether, such as EGFR, where an untethered, extended conformation is the active state and a tethered conformation is the inactive state, resulting in an autoinhibited configuration. Also provided are methods and pharmacophores for identifying such compounds. Other aspects provide methods or therapeutic treatment for proliferative diseases, disorders, or conditions, such as those associated with EGFR. |
| US08618300B2 |
Indolizine inhibitors of leukotriene production
The present invention relates to compounds of formula (I): and pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein X1 to X4, R1 to R4, A, B, D and m are as defined herein. The invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds, methods of using these compounds in the treatment of various diseases and disorders, processes for preparing these compounds and intermediates useful in these processes. |
| US08618299B2 |
Azinone-substituted azapolycycle MCH-1 antagonists, methods of making, and use thereof
MCH-1 receptor antagonists are disclosed having the general formula These compounds are used in the treatment of various disorders, including obesity, anxiety, depression, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and psychiatric disorders. Methods of making these compounds are also described in the present invention. |
| US08618296B2 |
Arylethynyl derivatives
The present invention relates to ethynyl compounds of formula I wherein R1, R2, R2′, R3, R3′, R4, R4′, U, V, W, Y, m, and n are as defined herein and to a pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salts, to a racemic mixtures, or to its corresponding enantiomers and/or optical isomers and/or stereoisomers thereof. Compounds of formula I are allosteric modulators of the metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 5 (mGluR5). |
| US08618295B2 |
Preparation of luminescent iridium complexes and precursors thereof
Synthetic processes for preparing luminescent iridium complexes and precursors thereof are provided. The method employs water as the reaction solvent to prepare luminescent iridium complexes in two different ways. In the first way, a precursor [Ir2(C11NR8)4I2] (Formula I) is prepared from one of IrCl3, M3IrCl6 (M=Li, Na, K) and [Ir2(C11NR8)4Cl2], and then the precursor [Ir2(C11NR8)4I2] is converted into one of the two luminescent iridium isomeric complexes [Ir(C11NR8)2(C11NR′8)] (Formula II). In the second way, a metal complex IrCl3 or M3IrCl6 (M=Li, Na, K), HC11NR8 and a base are converted selectively into one of the two iridium isomeric complexes [Ir(C11NR8)3] (Formula VIII). Herein, R and R′ are defined the same as the specification. |
| US08618294B2 |
Dye for dye-sensitized solar cells, method of preparing the same, and solar cell including the dye
A dye for dye-sensitized solar cells includes an organometallic complex represented by M(L)pX2:(Z)q. In the organometallic complex, M is a Group 8 through Group 10 metallic element, L is a bidentate ligand, X is a co-ligand, and Z is a counter-ion. The ratio of the bidentate ligand (L) to the counter-ion (Z) is about 1.1 to about 1.4. A method of preparing an exemplary dye includes mixing the organometallic complex with tetrabutylammonium thiocyanate and tetrabutylammonium hydroxide to prepare a solution, and purifying the solution at a pH of about 3.8 to about 4.1. A dye-sensitized solar cell includes a first electrode with a light absorbing layer, a second electrode and an electrolyte between the first and second electrodes. The light absorbing layer includes the dye. |
| US08618288B2 |
Pyrimidine compounds as serotonin receptor modulators
Certain pyrimidine-containing compounds are serotonin receptor modulators useful in the treatment of serotonin-mediated diseases. |
| US08618287B2 |
Derivatives of triazines and uracils, their preparation and their application in human therapeutics
The present invention relates to derivatives of general formula I wherein: —W represents nitrogen, —R1 represents: •a hydrogen or a linear or branched C1-C5 alkyl radical or, •a C1-C3 alkyl radical substituted with groups such as trifluoromethyl, nitrile, hydroxy, C1-C3 alcoxy, C3-C6 alkoxyalkoxy, indolyl, thiophenyl, oxothiophenyl, C1-C3 N-alkylcarbamoyl groups or, •a phenyl or pyridyl or naphthyl, or thiophenyl group optionally substituted with one or more groups such as halogen atoms, nitro, nitrile, trifluoromethyl, vinyl, methylsulfanyl, linear branched C1-C4 alkyl, linear or branched C1-C3 alkoxy groups, •a C6 2-oxocycloalkyl radical—R2 represents a methyl or heptyl, -m, n are equal to 1, —V represents CH2, —X—Y represents —N— (C═O)—, —CH—O—, —Z represents a phenyl group substituted with one or more trifluoromethyl groups, halogen atoms or linear C1-C4 alkyl groups. |
| US08618282B2 |
Process for preparing benzothiazepines from gamma-aminoalkylbenzenes
The invention provides a process for preparing a 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro[1,4]benzothiazepine of formula: by reacting a [2-(acylaminoethyl)thio]arene of formula with an aldehyde or a multimer thereof, and with an acid. The invention also provides for first reacting the [2-(acylaminoethyl)thio]arene with the aldehyde or multimer thereof and a base to form an [N-hydroxymethyl-2-[acylaminoethyl)thio]arene of formula then treating the [N-hydroxymethyl-2-(acylaminoethyl)thio]arene with the acid to form the 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro[1,4]benzothiazepine. |
| US08618280B2 |
Biorefinery process for extraction, separation, and recovery of fermentable saccharides, other useful compounds, and yield of improved lignocellulosic material from plant biomass
Non-food plant biomass is subjected to hot-water extraction in a pressurized vessel at an elevated temperature up to about 250° C. and at a pH below about 7.0, to yield an aqueous extract containing hemicellulosic components, other wood-derived compounds, and a lignocellulosic residue. The separated aqueous extract or liquor is purified and concentrated through a multi-step process producing fermentable sugars. At each stage, inhibitory chemicals such as acetic acid, lignin, and furfural are separated and eventually recovered as commercial chemicals. The lignocellulosic residue may be further processed, as a material with enhanced resistance to sorption of water, for manufacture of improved pulp and paper, construction materials, pellet fuel, and/or other useful products. |
| US08618276B2 |
Distinguishing PCA3 messenger RNA species in benign and malignant prostate tissues
This invention concerns the discovery of two distinct PCA3 mRNA sequences. One of these sequences corresponds to a short PCA3 mRNA molecule whereas the other PCA3 RNA molecule is longer as it comprises an additional sequence between exon 3 and exon 4a. The short RNA is associated with prostate cancer whereas the long RNA sequence is associated with a non-malignant state of the prostate. Based on the differential expression levels of these two PCA3 RNA sequences, protocols for the diagnosis of prostate disease are provided. The invention also relates to therapeutic approaches to prostate cancer. |
| US08618275B2 |
Efficient cell culture system for hepatitis C virus genotype 5A
The present inventors developed 5a/2a intergenotypic recombinants in which the JFH1 structural genes (Core, E1 and E2), p7 and all of or part of NS2 were replaced by the corresponding genes of the genotype 5a reference strain SA13. Compared to the J6/JFH control virus, after transfection of in vitro transcripts in Huh7.5 cells, production of infectious viruses was delayed. However, in subsequent viral passages efficient spread of infection and HCV RNA titers as high as for J6/JFH were obtained. Infectivity titers were at all time points analyzed comparable to J6/JFH control virus. Sequence analysis of recovered 5a/2a recombinants from 2 serial passages and subsequent reverse genetic studies revealed adaptive mutations in p7, NS2 and/or NS3. Infectivity of the 5a/2a viruses was CD81 and SR-BI dependant, and the recombinant viruses could be neutralized by chronic phase sera from patients infected with genotype 5a. Conclusion: The developed 5a/2a viruses provide a robust in vitro tool for research in HCV genotype 5, including vaccine studies and functional analyses of an increasingly important genotype in South Africa and Europe. |
| US08618274B2 |
Nucleic acid encoding apoptotic anti-IgE antibodies
The present application relates to apoptotic anti-IgE antibodies, nucleic acid encoding the same, therapeutic compositions thereof, and their use in the treatment of IgE-mediated disorders. |
| US08618267B2 |
PEG-urate oxidase conjugates and use thereof
A naturally occurring or recombinant urate oxidase (uricase) covalently coupled to poly(ethylene glycol) or poly(ethylene oxide) (both referred to as PEG), wherein an average of 2 to 10 strands of PEG are conjugated to each uricase subunit and the PEG has an average molecular weight between about 5 kDa and 100 kDa. The resulting PEG-uricase conjugates are substantially non-immunogenic and retain at least 75% of the uricolytic activity of the unmodified enzyme. |
| US08618265B2 |
Haptens, hapten conjugates, compositions thereof and method for their preparation and use
A method for performing a multiplexed diagnostic assay, such as for two or more different targets in a sample, is described. One embodiment comprised contacting the sample with two or more specific binding moieties that bind specifically to two or more different targets. The two or more specific binding moieties are conjugated to different haptens, and at least one of the haptens is an oxazole, a pyrazole, a thiazole, a nitroaryl compound other than dinitrophenyl, a benzofurazan, a triterpene, a urea, a thiourea, a rotenoid, a coumarin, a cyclolignan, a heterobiaryl, an azo aryl, or a benzodiazepine. The sample is contacted with two or more different anti-hapten antibodies that can be detected separately. The two or more different anti-hapten antibodies may be conjugated to different detectable labels. |
| US08618263B2 |
Antibodies against tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI)
The invention relates to antibodies that specifically bind to tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI) and that reduce clotting time in (a) human FVIII-deficient plasma and/or (b) human whole blood. Such antibodies have utility in the treatment of bleeding disorders and in the stimulation of blood clotting. |
| US08618258B2 |
Freeze-dried fibrin matrices and methods for preparation thereof
Methods for treating diseased or injured tissue by implanting into the tissue at a site of the disease or injury a porous freeze-dried fibrin matrix formed from plasma proteins. The proteins include fibrinogen cleaved by the action of thrombin at varying concentrations sufficient to cleave the fibrinogen and Factor XIII. The matrix has less than 10% residual moisture and is devoid of exogenous anti-fibrinolytic agents, plasminogen and of organic chelating agents. Alternatively, the plasma proteins comprise partially purified plasma proteins that are devoid of plasminogen. |
| US08618255B2 |
Spider silk proteins and methods for producing spider silk proteins
The invention provides an isolated major ampullate spidroin protein, which consists of from 150 to 420 amino acid residues and is defined by the formula REP-CT. REP is a repetitive, N-terminally derived protein fragment having from 80 to 300 amino acid residues. CT is a C-terminally derived protein fragment having from 70 to 120 amino acid residues. The invention further provides an isolated fusion protein consisting of a first protein fragment, which is a major ampullate spidroin protein, and a second protein fragment comprising a fusion partner and a cleavage agent recognition site. The first protein fragment is coupled via said cleavage agent recognition site to the fusion partner. The invention also provides a method of producing a major ampullate spidroin protein and polymers thereof. |
| US08618252B2 |
Neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn)-binding polypeptide variants, dimeric Fc binding proteins and methods related thereto
The compositions and methods of the present invention are based, in part, on our discovery that an effector function mediated by an Fc-containing polypeptide can be altered by modifying one or more amino acid residues within the polypeptide (by, for example, electrostatic optimization). The polypeptides that can be generated according to the methods of the invention are highly variable, and they can include antibodies and fusion proteins that contain an Fc region or a biologically active portion thereof. |
| US08618248B2 |
Phosphopeptide compositions and anti-phosphopeptide antibody compositions and methods of detecting phosphorylated peptides
The present invention relates to phosphopeptide compositions and anti-phosphopeptide antibody compositions. Also provided are methods of identifying phosphorylation sites in phosphorylated peptides and phosphorylation site motifs. |
| US08618239B2 |
Solid-stage polymerization system for a liquid crystalline polymer
A multi-stage process for forming a liquid crystalline polymer is provided. More particularly, the process includes acetylating one or more precursor monomers and melt-polymerizing the acetylated monomers to form a prepolymer in the form of a solid particulate material. Thereafter, the prepolymer is solid-state polymerized in a fluidized bed reactor that contains a porous surface (e.g., bed, plate, grate, etc.) on which the prepolymer is supported. While supported by this porous surface, the prepolymer can become “fluidized” with a heated stream of a gas (e.g., nitrogen). In this manner, a sufficient degree of turbulence is created to distribute heat evenly around the prepolymer and cause it to rapidly reach the target reaction temperature. |
| US08618238B2 |
Shape memory epoxy polymers
One embodiment includes compositions of shape memory epoxy polymers. |
| US08618237B2 |
Non-crystallizing bis-oxazolidines
Non-crystallizing oxazolidines as curing agents for polyisocyanates and polyurethanes. The curing agents are mixtures of at least one polyoxazolidine POU having at least two urethane groups and at least one polyoxazolidine POC having at least one carbonato group. |
| US08618235B2 |
Silicone composition
The present invention relates to silicone compositions which comprise at least one ketoximosilane-terminated polydiorganosiloxane and also at least one alkoxysilane. These compositions are neutrally crosslinking and combine a low odor with high adhesion and good storage stability. |
| US08618232B2 |
Infrared absorbing thin film containing rutile-type titanium oxide crystal and method for producing the same
There are provided an infrared absorbing thin film that efficiently absorbs infrared rays and has good versatility by controlling the absorption intensity of titanium oxide in an infrared region and a method for producing the infrared absorbing thin film. The infrared absorbing thin film containing a rutile-type titanium oxide crystal. |
| US08618229B2 |
Catalyst compositions containing transition metal complexes with thiolate ligands
The present invention discloses catalyst compositions employing transition metal complexes with a thiolate ligand. Methods for making these transition metal complexes and for using such compounds in catalyst compositions for the polymerization of olefins also are provided. |
| US08618227B2 |
Process for improving the devolatilization of polymer slurry produced in a polymerization reactor
The present invention relates to a process for improving the devolatilization of polymer slurry produced in an olefin polymerization reactor. The process is characterized in that it involves an adjustment of the temperature of the interior surface of the flash line for periodically transferring polymer slurry from the polymerization reactor to a downstream processing unit. In particular, in accordance with the present process, the temperature of the interior surface of the flash line is adjusted to a temperature which is equal to or higher than the softening temperature of the polymer passing through said flash line whereby said temperature is higher in a first half of the length of the flash line than in the remaining length of the flash line. |
| US08618222B2 |
Curable fluoroelastomer composition
Fluoroelastomer compositions comprising fluoroelastomers having copolymerized units of a nitrile group-containing cure site monomer are cured with certain hydroxylamine derivatives. The hydroxylamine derivative is of formula R1(C(O))nNHOR2 wherein n is 0 or 1; R1 is H, C(O)R3, C(O)R4, C(O)OR3, or C(O)SR3; R2 is H, C(O)R3, or C(O)OR3; R3 is C1-C20 alkyl group, aryl, heterocycle, benzyl, 9-fluorenylmethyl, or CH2R4; and R4 is a fluoroalkyl group, with the proviso that R1 and R2 cannot simultaneously be H. |
| US08618221B2 |
Directed assembly of triblock copolymers
Methods of directed self-assembly of multi-block (i.e., triblock and higher-order) copolymers on patterned substrates and related compositions are provided. According to various embodiments, the methods involve depositing copolymer materials on substrates configured to drive the assembly of micro-phase separated films that exhibit the same morphology as that copolymer materials in the bulk. In certain embodiments, binary patterns are used to drive the triblock copolymer films. The binary two-dimensional surface patterns are transformed into three-component and three-dimensional structures throughout the thickness of the overlying copolymer films. |
| US08618219B2 |
Propylene copolymers for adhesive applications
Disclosed herein is an in-reactor produced multi-component copolymer comprises a semi-crystalline component having a crystallinity of 20% or more, and an amorphous component having a crystallinity of 5% or less. The copolymer comprises at least 80 wt % of units derived from propylene and from about 1 to about 20 wt % of units derived from at least one C6 to C12 alpha-olefin. The copolymer has a viscosity at 190° C. of at least 530 mPa sec and a heat of fusion between about 10 and about 70 J/g. An adhesive containing the copolymer exhibits a good balance of adhesive properties and mechanical strength. |
| US08618216B1 |
Method of making silane coupled polymers
A functionalized polymer includes a directly bonded moiety, which can be located at a terminus of the polymer, defined by the formula CR1R2NH—OSi where each R1 and R2 independently is a substituted or unsubstituted hydrocarbyl group and where the Si atom can be bonded through similar moieties to up to three other polymers and/or to the appropriate number of non-interfering groups. The polymer can be provided by introducing a ketoximesilane compound into a system that includes carbanionic (living) polymer. Such polymers can be used in the production of compositions that include particulate fillers. |
| US08618210B2 |
Aqueous polymer dispersions and products from those dispersions
A method for forming a heat sealable coating on a substrate, wherein the substrate is formed from at least one oriented polymer is shown. The method includes depositing an aqueous polymer dispersion on the substrate, wherein the aqueous polymer dispersion includes (A) at least one thermoplastic resin; (B) at least one dispersing agent; and (C) water; wherein the dispersion has a pH of less than 12, and drying the dispersion to form a first layer. |
| US08618202B2 |
Polymer blends including surface-modified nanoparticles and methods of making the same
The present invention relates to the use of surface-modified nanoparticles to alter the morphology and microstructure of polymer blends. The addition of surface modified nanoparticles to polymer blends comprised of immiscible polymers facilitates the uniform distribution of the dispersed phase of the polymer blend. In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a polymer blend comprising (1) a continuous phase comprising at least one polymer, monomer or oligomer, and a plurality of surface-modified nanoparticles, having a particle diameter of less than about 100 nanometers, distributed in the continuous polymer phase; and (2) a dispersed phase comprising at least one polymer, monomer or oligomer, wherein the continuous polymer phase and the dispersed polymer phase are immiscible. |
| US08618200B2 |
Electrode lead for medical use, insulating tube and method for producing the same
An insulating tube for an electrode lead for medical use, particularly a cardiac pacemaker electrode lead, defibrillator electrode lead, electrode lead for nerve stimulation or the like, including a base material made of at least one material of the group consisting of silicones, polyurethanes, polyimide, PTFE, ETFE, and copolymers made of silicones and polyurethanes. In order to improve the functionality of such an insulating tube during friction of the tube with friction partners, at least in one volume region, which preferably forms the lateral surface of the insulating tube, the tube, in addition to the base material, includes a fibrous and/or particulate filler material having a higher abrasion resistance than the respective base material. A corresponding electrode lead is also provided, and a simple and cost-effective method for producing such an insulating tube and such an electrode lead. |
| US08618199B2 |
Functionalized high cis-1,4-polybutadiene prepared using novel functionalizing agents
A method for preparing a functionalized polymer comprising the steps of preparing a polymer by polymerizing conjugated diene monomer with a lanthanide-based catalyst, wherein the lanthanide-based catalyst comprises (a) a lanthanide compound, (b) an alkylating agent, and (c) a source of halogen, and reacting the pseudo-living polymer with at least one amide-containing functionalizing agent. |
| US08618197B2 |
Highly-neutralized thermoplastic copolymer center for improved multi-layer core golf ball
Multi-layer golf balls comprising a center, intermediate layer, and cover are disclosed. The center is formed from a highly-neutralized acid copolymer composition. |
| US08618186B2 |
Increase in the toughness of a material obtained from a curable composition comprising at least one vinyl ester monomer
A method increases the toughness of a material obtained by curing a composition that includes at least one vinyl ester monomer. The method includes the incorporation into the composition of a sulfonated polyaromatic thermoplastic polymer, which is achieved by dissolving the vinyl ester monomer and the thermoplastic polymer in a reactive diluent in which they are both soluble. The resulting curable composition includes at least one vinyl ester monomer, and very high toughness materials can be made from it. A curable composition can include at least one vinyl ester monomer, a sulfonated polyaromatic thermoplastic polymer and a N-vinyl lactam. The compositions can be used in the aeronautical, space, railway, nautical, automotive industries, arms and other industries. |
| US08618185B2 |
Self-lubricating pharmaceutical syringe stoppers
In one aspect, a self-lubricating component is provided for a pharmaceutical packaging assembly. The self-lubricating component comprises a polymer composition and an effective amount of a lubricating additive such as, for example, boron nitride. In another aspect, a pharmaceutical packaging assembly may be provided having a surface thereof coated with a lubricating composition comprising boron nitride. The pharmaceutical packaging composition may be, for example, a pre-filled syringe comprising a body (barrel) and a plunger assembly. |
| US08618184B2 |
Polyurethane foams containing branched poly(trimethylene ether) polyols
Disclosed is branched poly(trimethylene ether)polyols prepared from the acid catalyzed polycondensation reaction of 1,3-propanediol, and at least one triol comonomer selected from 1,1,1-tris(hydroxymethyl)ethane and 1,1,1-tris(hydroxymethyl)propane. Also disclosed is a branched poly(trimethylene ether)polyol with an equivalent hydroxyl functionality of about 2.1 to about 3.2 and a Mn of about 200 to about 6000. The polyols are useful in the preparation of polyurethane rigid and flexible foams. |
| US08618183B2 |
Materials containing voids with void size controlled on the nanometer scale
A method of forming a porous composite material in which substantially all of the pores within the composite material are small having a diameter of about 5 nm or less and with a narrow PSD is provided. The porous composite material includes a first solid phase having a first characteristic dimension and a second phase comprised of pores having a second characteristic dimension, wherein the characteristic dimensions of at least one of said phases is controlled to a value of about 5 nm or less. |
| US08618181B2 |
Chemical production processes utilizing syngas from plasma pyrolysis
Chemical production processes are described herein. The chemical production processes generally include providing municipal solid waste; subjecting the municipal solid waste to plasma pyrolysis to form an intermediate for chemical production, wherein the intermediate includes carbon monoxide and hydrogen; and transferring the intermediate from the plasma pyrolysis to a chemical or liquid fuel production process. |
| US08618180B2 |
Hyperbranched polyesters and polycarbonates as demulsifiers for cracking crude oil emulsions
The invention relates to the use of nondendrimeric, high-functionality hyperbranched polyesters and polycarbonates which are obtainable by reacting (i) at least one aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, araliphatic or aromatic dicarboxylic acid (A2) or derivatives thereof, or organic carbonates (A2′) with (ii) at least one x-hydric aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, araliphatic or aromatic alcohol (Cx) which has more than two OH groups, where x is a number greater than 2, preferably from 3 to 8, more preferably from 3 to 6, even more preferably from 3 to 4 and especially 3, and (iii) at least one fatty acid amide alkoxylate (D) of saturated or unsaturated C2-C30 fatty acid amides with an average of from 1 to 40 alkylene oxide units as demulsifiers for splitting crude oil emulsions. |
| US08618177B2 |
Method of treating pain caused by inflammation
A method of treating or inhibiting, in particular, pain caused by inflammation in a mammal by administering to the mammal an effective inflammatory pain alleviating amount of a (1R,2R)-3-(3-dimethylamino-1-ethyl-2-methyl-propyl)-phenol compound or a physiologally acceptable salt thereof, such as the hydrochloride or citrate salt. |
| US08618175B2 |
Ultrasound medical gel composition etherified hydroxyethylcellulose
Ultrasound medical gel composition, the compositions comprising: (a) a gelling agent comprising etherified hydroxyethylcellulose; (b) an antimicrobial agent, specifically the quaternary ammonium compound benzalkonium chloride; (c) a solvent, 1,3-propanediol being preferred; and (d) water. |
| US08618173B2 |
Insecticidal compounds
Novel aromatic compounds of formula (I): wherein A1, A2, A3, A4, R1, R2, R5, G1, G2, Q1, Q2, Y1, Y2, Y3 and Y4 are as defined in claim 1; or a salt or N-oxide thereof. Furthermore, the present invention relates to processes for preparing compounds of formula (I), to insecticidal, acaricidal, nematicidal or molluscicidal compositions comprising them and to methods of using them to combat and control insect, acarine, nematode or mollusc pests. |
| US08618169B2 |
Derivatives of N-phenylanthranilic acid and 2-benzimidazolone as potassium channel and/or neuron activity modulators
Compounds, compositions and methods are provided which are useful in the treatment of conditions such as central or peripheral nervous system disorders through the modulation of potassium ion flux through voltage-dependent potassium channels and/or depressing cortical and/or peripheral neuron activity are disclosed. Novel derivatives of N-phenylanthranilic acid are also disclosed. |
| US08618166B2 |
Methods of treating mixed dyslipidemia
The present disclosure relates to, inter alia, methods of treating mixed dyslipidemia with ethyl eicosapentaenoate. |
| US08618165B2 |
Compounds
Compounds of formula (I); wherein R1 and R2 are the same or different and may be selected from the group consisting of a hydrogen atom, a hydroxy group, an alkyl group, a halogen atom, an alkoxy group, an acyloxy group, an acyl group, an alkenyl group, an alkynyl group, an aryl group, an alkylthio group, an alkoxycarbonyl group, an alkylsulfinyl group, an alkylsulfonyl group, an amino group, and an alkylamino group; and X represents a carboxylic acid group, a carboxylate group, or a carboxamide group; or any pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, complex or pro-drug thereof, with the provisos that the compound of formula (I) is not (all-Z)-4,7,10,13,16,19-docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), alpha-methyl DHA, alpha-methyl DHA methyl ester, alpha-methyl DHA ethyl ester or alpha-hydroxy DHA ethyl ester, are disclosed. A fatty acid composition and a pharmaceutical composition comprising such compounds are also disclosed. The use of such compounds as medicaments, in particular for the treatment of diabetes type 2, is also disclosed. |
| US08618163B2 |
Derivatives of cycloalkyl- and cycloalkenyl-1,2-dicarboxylic acid compounds having formyl peptide receptor like-1 (FPRL-1) agonist or antagonist activity
The invention provides well defined compounds having FPRL-1 agonist or antagonist activity. As such, the compounds of the invention are useful for treating a variety of ocular disorders. |
| US08618161B2 |
Fluorescent polymeric materials containing lipid soluble rhodamine dyes
Fluorescent polymeric materials are disclosed comprising a polymeric particle and one or more lipid soluble rhodamine dyes, comprising the following core structure: wherein R11 and R15 are each H or are each F or Cl; R12, R13, and R14 are each H or are each F or Cl; and wherein at least one of R3′, R3″, R6′ and R6′ is a (C4-C20) alkyl. The materials are especially useful in the preparation of multicolored microparticles, especially multicolored polystyrene microparticle, for use in the multiplexed analysis of a plurality of analytes in a single sample. When excited by a light source, the materials give off a unique emission based on the nature, concentration and ratio of the dyes therein. Methods of preparing and using said materials are also disclosed. |
| US08618153B2 |
Hepatitis C virus inhibitors
This disclosure concerns novel compounds of Formula (I) or as defined in the specification and compositions comprising such novel compounds. These compounds are useful antiviral agents, especially in inhibiting the function of the NS5A protein encoded by Hepatitis C virus (HCV). Thus, the disclosure also concerns a method of treating HCV related diseases or conditions by use of these novel compounds or a composition comprising such novel compounds. |
| US08618144B2 |
Pyrrolidine-derived beta 3 adrenergic receptor agonists
The present invention provides compounds of Formula (I), pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and method of using the same in the treatment or prevention of diseases mediated by the activation of β3-adrenoceptor. |
| US08618142B2 |
Process for the preparation of roflumilast
A composition comprising: roflumilast having a purity of greater than or equal to 99% by weight, and N-(3,5-dichloropyrid-4-yl)-3-cyclopropylmethoxy-4-hydroxybenzamide present (relative to roflumilast) in an amount greater than zero and less than 0.1% by weight. |
| US08618141B2 |
Aryl ureas with angiogenesis inhibiting activity
This invention relates to methods of using aryl ureas to treat diseases mediated by the VEGF induced signal transduction pathway characterized by abnormal angiogenesis or hyperpermeability processes. |
| US08618139B2 |
Oxadiazole derivatives as sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulators
The present invention relates to novel oxadiazole derivatives, processes for preparing them, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use as pharmaceuticals as modulators of sphingosine-1-phosphate receptors. |
| US08618135B2 |
Methods for treating disorders or diseases associated with hyperlipidemia and hypercholesterolemia while minimizing side effects
The present invention provides methods and compositions for treating hyperlipidemia and/or hypercholesterolemia comprising administering to the subject an effective amount of an MTP inhibitor to inhibit hyperlipidemia and/or hypercholesterolemia in said subject, wherein said administration comprises an escalating series of doses of the MTP inhibitor. In some embodiments the method comprises administering at least three step-wise, increasing dosages of the MTP inhibitor to the subject. In some embodiments, the method further comprises the administration of one or more other lipid modifying compounds. |
| US08618134B2 |
Method and composition for treating a serotonin receptor-mediated condition
A method and composition for treating serotonin receptor-mediated conditions. |
| US08618130B2 |
Selective serotonin 2A/2C receptor inverse agonists as therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases
Behavioral pharmacological data with the compound of formula (I), a novel and selective 5HT2A/2C receptor inverse agonist, demonstrate in vivo efficacy in models of psychosis and dyskinesias. This includes activity in reversing MK-801 induced locomotor behaviors, suggesting that this compound may be an efficacious anti-psychotic, and activity in an MPTP primate model of dyskinesias, suggesting efficacy as an anti-dyskinesia agent. These data support the hypothesis that 5HT2A/2C receptor inverse agonism may confer antipsychotic and anti-dyskinetic efficacy in humans, and indicate a use of the compound of formula (I) and related agents as novel therapeutics for Parkinson's Disease, related human neurodegenerative diseases, and psychosis. |
| US08618129B2 |
Substituted 1-oxo-dihydroisoquinoline-3-carboxamides as KCNQ2/3 modulators
The invention relates to substituted 1-oxo-dihydroisoquinoline-3-carboxamides, to pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds and also to these compounds for use in the treatment and/or prophylaxis of pain and further diseases and/or disorders. |
| US08618122B2 |
Compound having acidic group which may be protected, and use thereof
A compound represented by general formula (I): a salt thereof, a solvate thereof, or a prodrug thereof wherein all symbols are as defined in the specification. The compound of the present invention has antagonistic activity against CXCR4 and is therefore useful as a preventive and/or therapeutic agent for CXCR4-mediated diseases, for example, inflammatory and immune diseases (for example, rheumatoid arthritis, arthritis, systemic erythematosus, retinopathy, macular degeneration, pulmonary fibrosis, transplanted organ rejection, etc.), allergic diseases, infections (for example, human immunodeficiency virus infection, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, etc.), psychoneurotic diseases, cerebral diseases, cardiovascular disease, metabolic diseases, cancerous diseases (for example, cancer, cancer metastasis, etc.), or an agent for regeneration therapy. |
| US08618119B2 |
Fused cyanopyridines and the use thereof
The present application relates to novel substituted fused cyanopyridine derivatives, to processes for their preparation, to their use for the treatment and/or prevention of diseases and to their use for preparing medicaments for the treatment and/or prevention of diseases, preferably for the treatment and/or prevention of cardiovascular disorders. |
| US08618112B2 |
Crystalline forms of an inhibitor of 11-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1
Novel crystalline salts of 3-[4-(3-ethanesulfonyl-propyl)-bicyclo[2.2.2]oct-1-yl]-4-methyl-5-(2-trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-4H-1,2,4-triazole are potent inhibitors of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase Type 1 and are useful for the treatment of conditions associated with Metabolic Syndrome as well as cognitive impairment. The invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing these novel salts, processes to prepare these salts and their pharmaceutical compositions as well as uses thereof for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes, hyperglycemia, obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and cognitive impairment. |
| US08618109B2 |
Piperazine-substituted benzothiophenes for treatment of mental disorders
The present invention provides a heterocyclic compound represented by the general formula (1): The compound of the present invention has a wide treatment spectrum for mental disorders including central nervous system disorders, no side effects and high safety. |
| US08618108B2 |
Methods of making cyclic, N-amino functional triamines
The present invention provides strategies for making cyclic triamines. Reactant media including certain precursors and/or certain types of catalysts can be converted into cyclic triamines with improved conversion and selectivity. The strategies can be incorporated into reactions that involve transamination schemes and/or reductive amination schemes. In the case of transamination, for instance, using transamination to cause ring closure of higher amines in the presence of a suitable catalyst leads to desired cyclic triamines with notable conversion and yield. In the case of reductive amination, reacting suitable polyfunctional precursors in the presence of a suitable catalyst also yields cyclic triamines via ring closure with notable selectivity and conversion. Both transamination and reductive amination methodologies can be practiced under much milder temperatures than are used when solely acid catalysts are used. Preferred embodiments can produce reaction mixtures that are generally free of salt by-products. |
| US08618104B2 |
Salts of methyl (R)-7-[3-amino-4-(2,4,5-trifluoro-phenyl)-butyryl]-3-trifluoromethyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-imidazo[1,5-A]pyrazine-1-carboxylate
The pharmaceutically acceptable salts of methyl (R)-7-[3-amino-4-(2,4,5-trifluoro-phenyl)-butyryl]-3-trifluoromethyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-imidazo[1,5-a]pyrazine-1-carboxylate, their preparation methods and their use for preparing anti-diabetic medicaments are disclosed. |
| US08618100B2 |
Compounds with antibacterial activity against Clostridium
The present invention is related to novel compounds of formula (I) having antibacterial activity against Clostridium bacteria, in particular Clostridium perfringens, pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds, and chemical processes for preparing these compounds. |
| US08618091B2 |
Composition and method for treatment of MRSA
The present invention provides a photosensitizing composition for treatment of MRSA comprising a photosensitizer and chlorhexidine and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The present invention also provides a method for reducing disease causing microbes comprising: applying the composition comprising a photosensitizer, chlorhexidine at a concentration of more than about 0.01% and less than about 2% v/v, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier to a treatment site; and applying light to the treatment site at a wavelength absorbed by the photosensitizer so as to reduce the microbes at the treatment site. |
| US08618086B2 |
Compositions and methods for treating hair loss using C16-C20 aromatic tetrahydro prostaglandins
A method for treating hair loss in mammals uses compositions containing prostaglandin F analogs. The compositions can be applied topically to the skin. The compositions can arrest hair loss, reverse hair loss, and promote hair growth. |
| US08618080B2 |
Immunomodulatory compounds and treatment of diseases related to an overproduction of inflammatory cytokines
Method of using immunomodulatory compounds for treating diseases related to an overproduction of inflammatory cytokines, including diseases selected from asthma, atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, prostatitis, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis, the compounds being of general formula (I): wherein: m and n, independently from each other, are an integer ranging from 1 to 4, X and Y represent —COON, —O—P(O)(OH)2, —O—S02(OH), —NH2, —OH, —CONH(CH2)n1—NH2, —CO—NH—CH(COOH)—(CH2)n1—COOH, —CO—NH—CH(COOH)—(CH2)n1—NH2, —O—CO—(CH2)n1—NH2, —O—CO—(CH2)n1—CHOH—CH2OH, —O—CO—(CH2)n1—OH, —O—CO—(CH2)n1—COOH, —O—CO—(CH2)n1—CHO, —O—CO—(CH2)n1—NH—CO—(CH2)n2—COOH, R1 and R2 each designate an acyl group derived from a saturated or unsaturated, straight-or branched-chain carboxylic acid having from 2 to 18 carbon atoms, which is unsubstituted or bears one to three substituents selected among hydroxyl, dihydroxyphosphoryloxy, alkyl of 2 to 18 carbon atoms, alkoxy of 2 to 18 carbon atoms, acyloxy of 2 to 18 carbon atoms in the acyl moiety, amino, acylamino. |
| US08618079B2 |
Imidazo[1,2-a] pyridinyl bisphosphonates
Novel imidazo[1,2-α]pyridinyl bisphosphonate compounds are disclosed, as well as methods of preparing the compounds, pharmaceutical compositions including the compounds, and administration of the compounds in methods of treating abnormal calcium and phosphate metabolism, including bone and joint diseases and other disorders. |
| US08618078B2 |
Foods and drinks having health benefits and method for adding health benefits to foods and drinks
A method for controlling intestinal function, blood sugar level, body fat or serum lipid, or maintaining and improving glucose tolerance. The method comprises giving to human body or animal foods and drinks, having health benefits, or enriched with health benefits, wherein the foods and drinks comprise as an active ingredient a hydrogenated, indigestible dextrin that is obtained by digesting pyrodextrin with an enzyme to obtain an indigestible dextrin, and then hydrogenating the indigestible dextrin. |
| US08618075B2 |
Certain compounds, compositions and methods
The present invention provides certain tetrahydrouridine derivative compounds, pharmaceutical compositions and kits comprising such compounds, and methods of making and using such compounds. |
| US08618071B2 |
Oligonucleotides for suppressing cancer cell invasion and migration
Provided herein is a method for detection of migratory and invasive cancer cells based on a number of marker nucleic acids differentially expressed in migratory/invasive cancer cells relative to nonmigratory/noninvasive cancer cells. Also disclosed are antisense oligonucleotides of the marker nucleic acids and uses thereof for suppressing cancer cell migration and invasion. |
| US08618068B2 |
Methods and low dose regimens for treating red blood cell disorders
Disclosed herein are methods and low dose regimens for increasing fetal hemoglobin levels in patients with red blood cell disorders, such as beta thalassemia, sickle cell disease, other anemias, or blood loss. Fetal and total hemoglobin levels and red blood cell counts are increased by administering 2,2-dimethylbutyrate (DMB) alone or in combination with hydroxyurea, decitabine or an HDAC inhibitor. Treatment can be continued for at least two weeks. |
| US08618067B2 |
L-sugar colon cleansing agent and uses thereof
Disclosed is L-glucose monohydrate and compositions thereof. Also disclosed are methods for making L-glucose monohydrate and compositions thereof. Further disclosed are methods for colonic cleansing using L-sugars, such as L-glucose monohydrate, and compositions and kits useful for colonic cleansing. |
| US08618066B1 |
Coating compositions having peptidic antimicrobial additives and antimicrobial additives of other configurations
Coating compositions having a peptidic antimicrobial additive and an antimicrobial additive of another configuration are provided. The concentrations of the antimicrobial agents within the coating composition are sufficient to synergistically inhibit microbial growth on an inanimate surface coated with the surface coating composition or within a container storing the coating composition. Methods for making and using such compositions to inhibit microbial growth in stored coatings and on susceptible surfaces are also provided. |
| US08618064B2 |
Methods of providing therapeutic effects using cyclosporin components
Methods of treating an eye of a human or animal include administering to an eye of a human or animal a composition in the form of an emulsion including water, a hydrophobic component and a cyclosporin component in a therapeutically effective amount of less than 0.1% by weight of the composition. The weight ratio of the cyclosporin component to the hydrophobic component is less than 0.8. |
| US08618062B2 |
Method of modulating integrin mediated cellular activity and agents useful for same
There is disclosed agents capable of inhibiting the binding of a MAP kinase to a binding domain of an integrin for the MAP kinase, and methods of modulating the activity of a cell utilizing the agents. The methods are particularly suitable for inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. |
| US08618056B2 |
Methods and compositions for treating conditions related to lack of blood supply, shock and neuronal injuries
A pharmaceutical composition comprising a lipid component; an amphiphilic emulsifier; and a polar liquid carrier. The lipid component and the amphiphilic emulsifier form free-moving lipid-carrying micelles (LMs) in the polar liquid carrier. The pharmaceutical composition is free of hemoglobin and fluorocarbon and can be used for treating conditions related to lack of blood supply and to raise the blood pressure. |
| US08618051B2 |
Vesiculins
The inventions relate generally to vesiculin peptides and vesiculin peptide chains, and fragments, variants and derivatives thereof, related compositions and formulations and their preparation and use, nucleic acids encoding such vesiculin peptides and vesiculin peptide chains, and fragments, variants and derivatives thereof and related vectors and host cells, hybridomas and antibodies, and methods for the prevention and treatment of conditions, diseases and disorders that would be improved, eased, or lessened by the administration of a composition of the invention, including but not limited to glucose metabolism diseases. |
| US08618050B2 |
Lipid preparation for enhancing mineral absorption
Disclosed is a dietary ingredient comprising at least one edible lipid which does not inhibit mineral absorption, enhances mineral absorption and intake, particularly a chemically or enzymatically synthesized synthetic oil, particularly glyceride-based lipid with high levels of mono- or polyunsaturated fatty acids at positions sn-1 and sn-3 of the glycerol backbone, vegetable- and plant-derived oil, such as flax and canola oils, short and medium chains lipid, preferably MCT and an oil mimicking the triglyceride composition of human mother's milk fat and its various uses.The dietary ingredient is particularly intended for use in enhancing calcium absorption and in the prevention and/or treatment of disorders associated with depletion of bone calcium and bone density, prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, for the enhancement of bone formation and bone mass maximization and for the enhancement of bone formation in infants and young children. |
| US08618047B2 |
Liquid enteral nutritional composition suitable for tube feeding, minimizing lower and upper tract digestive conditions
The invention is directed to liquid enteral nutritional compositions comprising a protein fraction comprising more than 25 weight % and up to 80 weight % of a vegetable protein comprising at least a source of pea protein, and a fat fraction comprising (a) 8 to 15 weight % of linoleic acid; (b) 3.0 to 6.0 weight % of a combination of alpha-linolenic acid, docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid, wherein the amount of ALA is >2.5 weight % and the combined amount of DHA and EPA is ≦2.5 weight %; (c) 10 to 20 weight % of at least one medium-chain fatty acid; and (d) 35 to 79 weight % of at least one mono-unsaturated fatty acid. The compositions provide for a healthy and balanced diet, which is well-tolerated and minimises clinical complications that are frequently associated with the administration of enteral nutrition in patients using tube feeding, especially with respect to a reduced gastric emptying. |
| US08618046B2 |
Treatment of atherosclerosis with cholesterol ester transport protein mimotopes
The present invention relates to a method for treating atherosclerosis and/or atherosclerosis sequelae with a compound that includes FX8(F)oPX9HX10X11X12DX2X3X4X5X6X7 where X8 is G, A, F, Y or K, X9 is E, Y, A, Q, K or S, X10 is H, V, L, F or I, X11 is L, W, S, I, F or Y, X12 is V, T, F or I, X5 is S or Y, X6 is L, A or I, X7 is S, N or T, and o is 0 or 1. |
| US08618044B2 |
Thrombopoietic compounds
The invention relates to the field of compounds, especially peptides or polypeptides, that have thrombopoietic activity. The peptides and polypeptides of the invention may be used to increase platelets or platelet precursors (e.g., megakaryocytes) in a mammal. |
| US08618035B2 |
Soap bar containing hydrogel phase particles
A millable solid soap. The millable solid soap contains a solid phase soap base and hydrogel phase particles dispersed in said soap base. The hydrogel phase particles act as fillers to render a low total fatty matter solid soap. |
| US08618030B2 |
1,3,2-dioxaphosphorinane, 2-sulfide derivatives for use as anti-wear additives in lubricant compositions
The present disclosure relates to a non-acidic, sulfur-containing, phosphorus-containing compound of the formula I where R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, and R7 are as defined herein. Such a compound may exhibit improved antiwear performance and thermal stability in lubricating compositions. |
| US08618028B2 |
Fire resistant lubricating grease composition
Fire resistant lubricating grease compositions resistant to self ignition and/or capable of self extinguishment when contacted with surfaces having temperatures of up to 900° C. are disclosed. The invention provides for grease compositions comprising (1) base oil (which can be mineral, vegetable, synthetic or combinations thereof), (2) at least one grease thickener (selected from calcium sulfonates or lithium-based soaps), and (3) water as major components. The invention also provides a method for the preparation of the grease composition and a method for lubrication of bearings, gears, surfaces and other lubricated components comprising use of the grease composition of the present invention. The grease compositions of this invention display excellent fire resistance properties and still have outstanding physical and performance characteristics for applications where temperatures and loads are high, shock loading is significant and in the presence of significant amounts of water. |
| US08618027B2 |
Corrosion inhibitors for oil and gas applications
A corrosion inhibitor composition and method of inhibiting corrosion on a surface in an oil or gas application is disclosed and claimed. The corrosion inhibitor includes at least one fatty acid; at least one alkanolamine; at least one alkylamine; and at least one organic sulfonic acid. The method of inhibiting corrosion includes on a surface in an oil or gas application comprises contacting an effective dosage of the corrosion inhibitor with the surface. |
| US08618021B2 |
Method of manufacturing compositions for removing halogenated hydrocarbons from contaminated environments
The present invention provides a supported reactant for in situ remediation of soil and/or groundwater contaminated with a halogenated hydrocarbon consisting essentially of an adsorbent impregnated with zero valent iron, wherein the adsorbent is capable of adsorbing the halogenated hydrocarbon. In one embodiment, the adsorbent is activated carbon. |
| US08618017B2 |
Irregularly shaped non-spherical supported catalyst, and a process for hydroconversion heavy oil fractions
A catalyst for hydrotreating and/or hydroconverting heavy metal-containing hydrocarbon feeds, comprises a support in the form of mainly irregular and non-spherical alumina-based agglomerates the specific shape. The catalyst is prepared by a specific order of steps: crushing, calcining, acidic autoclaving, drying, further calcining and impregnation with catalytic metals. |
| US08618015B2 |
High activity hydrodesulfurization catalyst, a method of making a high activity hydrodesulfurization catalyst, and a process for manufacturing an ultra-low sulfur distillate product
A method of making a high activity catalyst composition suitable for use in the hydrodesulfurization of a middle distillate feed, such as diesel fuel, having a high concentration of sulfur, to thereby provide a low sulfur middle distillate product. The method comprises heat treating aluminum hydroxide under controlled temperature conditions thereby converting the aluminum hydroxide to gamma-alumina to give a converted aluminum hydroxide, and controlling the fraction of converted aluminum hydroxide that is gamma-alumina. A catalytic component is incorporated into the converted aluminum hydroxide to provide an intermediate, which is heat treated to provide the high activity catalyst composition. The high activity catalyst composition can suitably be used in the hydrodesulfurization of a middle distillate feed containing a high sulfur concentration. |
| US08618013B2 |
Method of producing particles by physical vapor deposition in an ionic liquid
A method for forming a coating on an ionic liquid includes placing an ionic liquid on a surface of a substrate, thereby forming an ionic liquid coated substrate. The ionic liquid coated substrate is introduced into a physical deposition chamber having a physical deposition target. One or more materials are directed from the physical deposition target onto the ionic liquid of the ionic liquid coated substrate by physical vapor deposition to form a coating on the ionic liquid of the ionic liquid coated substrate. |
| US08618008B2 |
Ca—La—F based transparent ceramic, Ca—La—F based transparent ceramic, optical element, optical system, and ceramic-forming composition
A Ca—La—F based transparent ceramic, including: mixing CaF2 particles and LaF3 particles that are prepared separately from the CaF2 particles to form a mixed body of particles, and sintering the mixed body of particles and making the mixed body transparent, thereby producing a transparent ceramic. |
| US08618002B2 |
Resist pattern formating method
The present invention provides a pattern formation method capable of preventing formation of surface defects. In the method, a resist surface after subjected to exposure is coated with an acidic film and then subjected to heating treatment. This method is suitably adopted in a process employing liquid immersion lithography and/or light of short wavelength, such as ArF excimer laser beams, for producing a very fine pattern. |
| US08618000B2 |
Selective wet etching of hafnium aluminum oxide films
Methods and etchant compositions for wet etching to selectively remove a hafnium aluminum oxide (HfAlOx) material relative to silicon oxide (SiOx) are provided. |
| US08617996B1 |
Fin removal method
Methods for removal of fins from a semiconductor structure are provided. A fin liner is applied to the fins. The fin liner is then removed from the fins that are to be removed. The fin liner is of a material that is selective compared to the semiconductor fins. Hence, the fins can be removed without significant damage to the fin liner. The subsets of fins that are to be removed are then removed, while the fin liner protects the adjacent fins that are to be kept. |
| US08617991B2 |
Method of manufacturing semiconductor device
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device includes forming an interlayer dielectric film that has first and second trenches on first and second regions of a substrate, respectively, forming a first metal layer along a sidewall and a bottom surface of the first trench and along a top surface of the interlayer dielectric film in the first region, forming a second metal layer along a sidewall and a bottom surface of the second trench and along a top surface of the interlayer dielectric film in the second region, forming a first sacrificial layer pattern on the first metal layer such that the first sacrificial layer fills a portion of the first trench, forming a first electrode layer by etching the first metal layer and the second metal layer using the first sacrificial layer pattern, and removing the first sacrificial layer pattern. |
| US08617989B2 |
Liner property improvement
Methods of forming a dielectric liner layer on a semiconductor substrate are described. The method may include flowing a phosphorus-containing precursor with a silicon-containing precursor and an oxygen-containing precursor over the substrate to deposit a dielectric material. The dielectric material may be deposited along a field region and within at least one via on the substrate having a depth of at least 1 μm. The method may also include forming a liner layer within the via with the dielectric material. The liner may include a silicon oxide doped with phosphorus, and the thickness of the liner layer at an upper portion of the via sidewall may be less than about 5 times the thickness of the liner layer at a lower portion of the via sidewall. |
| US08617988B2 |
Through-substrate vias
A method of etching through-substrate vias comprising depositing a layer of embossable material on a first side and a second side of a thin-film stack, the thin-film stack including a base substrate, embossing the embossable material deposited on the first side and the second side of the thin-film stack with a pattern, hardening the embossable material, and etching the first and second sides of the thin-film stack, the etching of the second side of the thin-film stack forming vias through the base substrate. |
| US08617987B2 |
Through hole via filling using electroless plating
An embedded wafer level ball grid array (eWLB) is formed by embedding a semiconductor die in a molding compound. A trench is formed in the molding compound with a laser drill. A first layer of copper is deposited on the sidewall of the trench by physical vapor deposition. A second layer of copper is then formed on the first layer of copper by an electroless process. A third layer of copper is then formed on the second layer by electroplating. |
| US08617986B2 |
Integrated circuits and methods for forming the integrated circuits
A method for forming an integrated circuit includes forming a first dielectric layer over a gate electrode of a transistor. An etch-stop layer is formed over the first dielectric layer. An opening is formed through the first dielectric layer and the etch-stop layer, exposing a source/drain (S/D) region of the transistor. A metal layer is formed in the opening, contacting the S/D region of the transistor. The metal layer has a surface that is at least partially substantially level with a first top surface of the etch-stop layer. A damascene structure is formed and coupled with the metal layer. |
| US08617984B2 |
Tungsten metallization: structure and fabrication of same
A local interconnect structure is provided in which a tungsten region, i.e., tungsten stud, that is formed within a middle-of-the-line (MOL) dielectric material is not damaged and/or contaminated during a multiple interconnect patterning process. This is achieved in the present disclosure by forming a self-aligned tungsten nitride passivation layer within a topmost surface and upper sidewalls portions of the tungsten region that extend above a MOL dielectric material which includes a first interconnect pattern formed therein. During the formation of the self-aligned tungsten nitride passivation layer, a nitrogen enriched dielectric surface also forms within exposed surface of the MOL dielectric material. A second interconnect pattern is then formed adjacent to, but not connect with, the first interconnect pattern. Because of the presence of the self-aligned tungsten nitride passivation layer on the tungsten region, no damaging and/or contamination of the tungsten region can occur. |
| US08617980B2 |
Semiconductor device including capacitor
A substrate is provided with a first wiring layer 111, an interlayer insulating film 132 on the first wiring layer 111, a hole 112A formed in the interlayer insulating film, a first metal layer 112 covering the hole 112A, a second metal layer 113 formed in the hole 112A, a dielectric insulating film 135 on the first metal layer 112, and second wiring layers 114-116 on the dielectric insulating film 135, wherein the first metal layer 112 constitutes at least part of the lower electrode, an area, facing the lower electrode, of the second wiring layers 114-116 constitutes the upper electrode, and a capacitor 160 is constructed of the lower electrode, the dielectric insulating film 135 and the upper electrode P1. |
| US08617973B2 |
Semiconductor device fabrication methods with enhanced control in recessing processes
Semiconductor device fabrication methods having enhanced control in recessing processes are provided. In a method for fabricating a semiconductor device or plurality of them, a structure is formed. The method includes preparing a limited amount of the structure having a depth of less than ten atomic layers for removal. Further, the method includes performing a removal process to remove the limited amount of the structure. The method repeats preparation of successive limited amounts of the structure for removal, and performance of the removal process to form a recess at an upper portion of the structure. |
| US08617971B2 |
Semiconductor substrates using bandgap material between III-V channel material and insulator layer
Improved semiconductor substrates are provided that employ a wide bandgap material between the channel and the insulator. A semiconductor substrate comprises a channel layer comprised of a III-V material; an insulator layer; and a wide bandgap material between the channel layer and the insulator layer, wherein a conduction band offset (ΔEc) between the channel layer and the wide bandgap material is between 0.05 eV and 0.8 eV. The channel layer can be comprised of, for example, In1−xGaxAs or In1−xGaxSb, with x varying from 0 to 1. The wide bandgap material can be comprised of, for example, In1−yAlyAs, In1−yAlyP, Al1−yGayAs or In1−yGayP, with y varying from 0 to 1. |
| US08617967B2 |
Vertically oriented nanostructure and fabricating method thereof
A vertically oriented nanometer-wires structure is disclosed. The vertically oriented nanometer-wires structure includes a non-crystalline base and many straight nanometer-wires. The straight nanometer-wires are uniformly distributed on the non-crystalline base, and the angle between each of the straight nanometer-wire and the non-crystalline base is 80-90 degrees. The straight nanometer-wires structure can be widely applied in semiconductor, optoelectronic, biological and energy field. What is worth to be noticed is that the non-crystalline base can be glass, ceramics, synthetic, resin, rubber or even metal foil, and the straight nanometer-wires and the non-crystalline base are still orthogonal to each other. |
| US08617962B2 |
Method for finishing a substrate of the semiconductor-on-insulator type
The invention relates to finishing a substrate of the semiconductor-on-insulator (SeOI) type comprising an insulator layer buried between two semiconducting material layers. The method successively comprises routing the annular periphery of the substrate so as to obtain a routed substrate, and encapsulating the routed substrate so as to cover the routed side edge of the buried insulator layer by means of a semiconducting material. |
| US08617958B2 |
Methods of forming diodes
Some embodiments include methods of forming diodes. A stack may be formed over a first conductive material. The stack may include, in ascending order, a sacrificial material, at least one dielectric material, and a second conductive material. Spacers may be formed along opposing sidewalls of the stack, and then an entirety of the sacrificial material may be removed to leave a gap between the first conductive material and the at least one dielectric material. In some embodiments of forming diodes, a layer may be formed over a first conductive material, with the layer containing supports interspersed in sacrificial material. At least one dielectric material may be formed over the layer, and a second conductive material may be formed over the at least one dielectric material. An entirety of the sacrificial material may then be removed. |
| US08617956B2 |
Method and structure for forming high-K/metal gate extremely thin semiconductor on insulator device
A semiconductor device is provided that includes a gate structure present on a substrate. The gate structure includes a gate conductor with an undercut region in sidewalls of a first portion of the gate conductor, wherein a second portion of the gate conductor is present over the first portion of the gate conductor and includes a protruding portion over the undercut region. A spacer is adjacent to sidewalls of the gate structure, wherein the spacer includes an extending portion filling the undercut region. A raised source region and a raised drain region is present adjacent to the spacers. The raised source region and the raised drain region are separated from the gate conductor by the extending portion of the spacers. |
| US08617953B2 |
Memory having a vertical access device
Semiconductor memory devices having vertical access devices are disclosed. In some embodiments, a method of forming the device includes providing a recess in a semiconductor substrate that includes a pair of opposed side walls and a floor extending between the opposed side walls. A dielectric layer may be deposited on the side walls and the floor of the recess. A conductive film may be formed on the dielectric layer and processed to selectively remove the film from the floor of the recess and to remove at least a portion of the conductive film from the opposed sidewalls. |
| US08617952B2 |
Vertical transistor with hardening implatation
A method includes providing a semiconductor wafer having a plurality of pillar structures extending orthogonally from the semiconductor wafer. Each pillar structure forms a vertical pillar transistor having a top surface and a side surface orthogonal to the top surface. Then a hardening species is implanted into the vertical pillar transistor top surface. Then the vertical pillar transistor side surface is oxidized to form a side surface oxide layer. The side surface oxide layer is removed to form vertical pillar transistor having rounded side surfaces. |
| US08617949B2 |
Capacitor and method for making same
A system-on-chip device comprises a first capacitor in a first region, a second capacitor in a second region, and may further comprise a third capacitor in a third region, and any additional number of capacitors in additional regions. The capacitors may be of different shapes and sizes. A region may comprise more than one capacitor. Each capacitor in a region has a top electrode, a bottom electrode, and a capacitor insulator. The top electrodes of all the capacitors are formed in a common process, while the bottom electrodes of all the capacitors are formed in a common process. The capacitor insulator may have different number of sub-layers, formed with different materials or thickness. The capacitors may be formed in an inter-layer dielectric layer or in an inter-metal dielectric layer. The regions may be a mixed signal region, an analog region, and so forth. |
| US08617946B2 |
Integrated circuits including metal gates and fabrication methods thereof
A method of forming an integrated circuit is provided. The method includes forming a gate electrode of an NMOS transistor over a substrate by a gate-first process. A gate electrode of a PMOS transistor is formed over the substrate by a gate-last process. |
| US08617945B2 |
Stacking fault and twin blocking barrier for integrating III-V on Si
A stacking fault and twin blocking barrier for forming a III-V device layer on a silicon substrate and the method of manufacture is described. Embodiments of the present invention enable III-V InSb device layers with defect densities below 1×108 cm−2 to be formed on silicon substrates. In an embodiment of the present invention, a buffer layer is positioned between a III-V device layer and a silicon substrate to glide dislocations. In an embodiment of the present invention, GaSb buffer layer is selected on the basis of lattice constant, band gap, and melting point to prevent many lattice defects from propagating out of the buffer into the III-V device layer. In a specific embodiment, a III-V InSb device layer is formed directly on the GaSb buffer. |
| US08617942B2 |
Producing transistor including single layer reentrant profile
A method of producing a transistor includes providing a substrate including a first electrically conductive material layer. A resist material layer is deposited over the first electrically conductive material layer. The resist material layer is patterned to expose a portion of the first electrically conductive material layer. Some of the first electrically conductive material layer is removed to create a reentrant profile in the first electrically conductive material layer and expose a portion of the substrate. The first electrically conductive material layer and at least a portion of the substrate are conformally coated with an electrically insulating material layer. |
| US08617939B2 |
Enhanced thin film field effect transistor integration into back end of line
A semiconductor chip has self aligned (where a gate electrode and associated spacers define the source/drain implant with respect to the gate electrode) Field Effect Transistors (FETs) in a back end of the line (BEOL) portion of the semiconductor chip. The FETs are used to make buffer circuits in the BEOL to improve delay and signal integrity of long signal paths on the semiconductor chip. |
| US08617938B2 |
Device and method for boron diffusion in semiconductors
A device and method for semiconductor fabrication includes forming a buffer layer on a semiconductor substrate and depositing an amorphous elemental layer on the buffer layer. Elements of the elemental layer are diffused through the buffer layer and into the semiconductor layer. |
| US08617937B2 |
Forming narrow fins for finFET devices using asymmetrically spaced mandrels
A method of forming fins for fin-shaped field effect transistor (finFET) devices includes forming a plurality of sacrificial mandrels over a semiconductor substrate. The plurality of sacrificial mandrels are spaced apart from one another by a first distance along a first direction, and by a second distance along a second direction. Spacer layers are formed on sidewalls of the sacrificial mandrels such that portions of the spacer layers between sacrificial mandrels along the first direction are merged together. Portions of the spacer layers between sacrificial mandrels along the second direction remain spaced apart. The sacrificial mandrels are removed. A pattern corresponding to the spacer layers is transferred into the semiconductor layers to form a plurality of semiconductor fins. Adjacent pairs of fins are merged with one another at locations corresponding to the merged spacer layers. |
| US08617934B1 |
Methods of manufacture of top port multi-part surface mount silicon condenser microphone packages
The present invention relates to a surface mount package for a silicon condenser microphone and methods for manufacturing the surface mount package. The surface mount package uses a limited number of components which simplifies manufacturing and lowers costs, and features a substrate that performs functions for which multiple components were traditionally required, including providing an interior surface on which the silicon condenser die is mechanically attached, providing an interior surface for making electrical connections between the silicon condenser die and the package, and providing an exterior surface for surface mounting the package to a device's printed circuit board and for making electrical connections between package and the device's printed circuit board. |
| US08617925B2 |
Methods of forming bonded semiconductor structures in 3D integration processes using recoverable substrates, and bonded semiconductor structures formed by such methods
Methods of forming bonded semiconductor structures include forming through wafer interconnects through a layer of material of a first substrate structure, bonding one or more semiconductor structures over the layer of material, and electrically coupling the semiconductor structures with the through wafer interconnects. A second substrate structure may be bonded over the processed semiconductor structures on a side thereof opposite the first substrate structure. A portion of the first substrate structure then may be removed, leaving the layer of material with the through wafer interconnects therein attached to the processed semiconductor structures. At least one through wafer interconnects then may be electrically coupled to a conductive feature of another structure, after which the second substrate structure may be removed. Bonded semiconductor structures are formed using such methods. |
| US08617923B2 |
Semiconductor device manufacturing apparatus and method for manufacturing semiconductor device
A semiconductor device manufacturing method is provided. First and second semiconductor chips are prepared, including first and second electrodes on first and second surfaces respectively. The second semiconductor chip includes a third electrode on a third surface opposite to the second surface. The third electrode overlaps the second electrode. The second surface includes an electrode-free region that is free of any electrode. A sealing resin is applied on the first surface of the first semiconductor chip. A second surface of the first semiconductor chip is held by a bonding tool including a pressing surface and a supporting-portion projected from the pressing surface. The pressing surface is made into contact with the second electrode. The supporting-portion is arranged at a position facing the electrode-free region. The second semiconductor chip is stacked over the first semiconductor chip by the bonding tool to electrically connect the third electrode to the first electrode. |
| US08617922B2 |
Method of manufacturing semiconductor device
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device includes the steps of forming a plurality of first integrated circuits on the surface side of a first semiconductor substrate; forming a plurality of second integrated circuits in a semiconductor layer that is formed on a release layer provided on a second semiconductor substrate; bonding the two semiconductor substrates so that electrically bonding portions are bonded to each other to form a bonded structure; separating the second semiconductor substrate from the bonded structure at the release layer to transfer, to the first semiconductor substrate, the semiconductor layer in which the plurality of second integrated circuits are formed; and dicing the first semiconductor substrate to obtain stacked chips each including the first integrated circuit and the second integrated circuit. |
| US08617921B2 |
Package substrate dynamic pressure structure
Devices and methods for their formation, including electronic assemblies having a shape memory material structure, are described. In one embodiment, a device includes a package substrate and an electronic component coupled to the package substrate. The device also includes a shape memory material structure coupled to the package substrate. In one aspect of certain embodiments, the shape memory material structure is formed from a material selected to have a martensite to austenite transition temperature in the range of 50-300 degrees Celsius. In another aspect of certain embodiments, the shape memory material structure is positioned to extend around a periphery of the electronic component. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US08617919B2 |
Organic light emitting diode display and manufacturing method thereof
A manufacturing method of an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display according to an exemplary embodiment includes: forming a thin film transistor panel; forming a deposition mask on the thin film transistor panel by a photolithography process; obliquely spraying an organic material to the deposition mask from a linear deposition source to form an organic emission layer on the thin film transistor panel; and removing the deposition mask by using an adhering film, wherein the deposition mask includes a plurality of deposition walls configured to block the organic material sprayed at an angle that is less than a blocking angle. Accordingly, the deposition mask is formed by the photolithography process such that alignment of the deposition mask is straightforward when manufacturing the organic light emitting diode (OLED) display of a large size. |
| US08617918B2 |
Thermoelectric converter and method thereof
A thermoelectric converter is made of a first thermoelectric conversion material in which at least one type of second thermoelectric conversion material particles having an average size of 1 to 100 nm is dispersed. At least a part of the second thermoelectric conversion material particles is dispersed at a distance not more than the mean free path of the phonons of the first thermoelectric conversion material. |
| US08617917B2 |
Consumable adhesive layer for thin film photovoltaic material
A method for forming a thin film photovoltaic device may include providing a transparent substrate and forming a multi layered structure including at least a thin layer of indium material, copper material, and another layer of indium. A heat treatment may be performed that consumes substantially all of the thin layer of indium material into a portion of a copper indium disulfide alloy material. The method causes formation of a copper sulfide material overlying the copper indium disulfide alloy material during at least the thermal treatment process. |
| US08617912B2 |
Method for manufacturing semiconductor laser
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor laser includes the steps of preparing a mold with a pattern surface having recesses, forming a stacked semiconductor layer including a grating layer, forming a resin part on the grating layer, forming a resin pattern portion on the resin part, forming a diffraction grating by etching the grating layer using the resin part as a mask, and forming a mesa-structure on the stacked semiconductor layer. Each of the recesses includes two end portions and a middle portion between the two end portions. A depth of at least one of the two end portions from the pattern surface is greater than that of the middle portion. The step of forming the mesa-structure includes the step of etching the stacked semiconductor layer so as to remove end portions of the diffraction grating in a direction orthogonal to a periodic direction thereof. |
| US08617910B2 |
Display device and a method of manufacturing the same
A display device includes an array substrate, a driving film and an adhesive member. The array substrate includes a first base substrate, a plurality of first signal pads formed on the first base substrate and a first dummy pad formed adjacent to the first signal pads. The driving film includes a base film, a plurality of output terminals formed on the base film and a first alignment mark formed adjacent to the output terminals. The adhesive member adheres the first signal pads to the output terminals, and adheres the first dummy pad to the first alignment mark. |
| US08617908B2 |
Method for producing a substrate including a step of thinning with stop when a porous zone is detected
A method for producing a substrate, the method including: forming a porous zone in an inner layer of the substrate; progressively thinning a thickness of the substrate towards the inner layer including the porous zone; completing the progressively thinning by polishing; and controlled stopping of the polishing by detecting the porous zone during the polishing, the detecting including measuring at least one measurable physical parameter admitting a significant variation during a transition between two layers. |
| US08617896B1 |
Evaluating mixtures of low molecular weight heparins by chain profiles or chain mapping
Methods for analyzing mixtures of polysaccharides, for example heparin such as unfractionated heparin and enoxaparin are described. In some instances, the mixtures are analyzed using fast performance liquid chromatography (FPLC) and high liquid performance chromatography (HPLC), e.g., strong anion exchange HPLC. |
| US08617893B2 |
Analgesic and anti-inflammatory composition
The present invention discloses a composition that contains (1) an effective amount of an analgesically and/or anti-inflammatory active fraction separated from a mixture of plasma and/or serum, and (2) at least one metal, metal ion or metal salt, in which the mixture has been denatured. Also disclosed are methods of producing the composition for treating a subject afflicted with inflammation and/or pain. |
| US08617887B2 |
Method of generating oligodendrocytes from neurosphere cells
The present invention is generally in the field of neurological diseases and disorders, particular in the field of neurodegenerative diseases in which the myelin cover of nerves is lost. IL6R/IL6 chimera is used to promote the formation of oligodendrocytes from embryonic stem cells for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases or posttraumatic nerve damage. |
| US08617883B2 |
Mesenchymal stem cell for promoting neovascularisation
The Eph (erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular carcinoma) receptors and their cell surface anchored ligands, the Ephrins, comprise the largest of the receptor tyrosine kinases families with 14 receptors and 8 ligands. The receptors are subdivided into Eph-A and Eph-B categories and have known actions in the development of the vascular and nervous system. The present invention relates to an isolated mesenchymal stem cell selected from the group consisting of an isolated mesenchymal stem cell that expresses Ephrin-B2, an isolated mesenchymal stem cell that over-expresses Ephrin-B2, and an isolated mesenchymal stem cell that is genetically modified to increase Ephrin-B2 expression. The invention further relates to the various applications of the isolated mesenchymal stem cells of the present invention. |
| US08617882B2 |
Skin-derived precursor cells and uses thereof
The invention features methods of inducing hair follicle formation in a mammal by transplantation of skin-derived precursors (SKPs) and keratinocytes into the skin of the mammal. The invention also features compositions and kits including SKPs and keratinocytes. In other aspects, the invention features methods for producing dermal sheets from SKPs, methods for using such sheets and dermal sheets produced by SKPs. |
| US08617880B2 |
Chimeric toll-like receptor/MD-2 polypeptides and methods of use thereof
This invention provides monoclonal antibodies that recognize the Toll-like Receptor 4/MD-2 receptor complex, and monoclonal antibodies that recognize the TLR4/MD2 complex as well as TLR4 when not complexed with MD-2. The invention further provides methods of using the monoclonal antibodies as therapeutics. This invention also provides soluble chimeric proteins, methods of expressing and purifying soluble chimeric proteins, and methods of using soluble chimeric proteins as therapeutics, in screening assays and in the production of antibodies. |
| US08617879B2 |
Apparatus for cell or tissue culture
The apparatus for cell or tissue culture comprises a base plate (1), an intermediate face (2) and a top plate (3). The intermediate face (2) is removably sandwiched between the base plate (1) and the top plate (3). The base plate (1) has a circumferential wall (13), a base (14) and a top wall (16). The top wall (16) of the base plate (1) comprises a plurality of recesses (12) arranged in n lines, wherein n is an integer from 1 to about 25. Each line of recesses (12) ranges from a first recess to a last recess. Each recess has a circumferential recess wall (15), which has one recess inlet and one recess outlet (40, 41). The circumferential wall (13) comprises a number of 2 n ports (11). Each port (11) is coupled to a single line of recesses (12). The recesses (12) of each line of recesses are in fluid communication with (i) each other via the recess inlets and a recess outlets (40, 41) and (ii) with a first and a second port (11) of the 2 n ports, such that the first recess of each line of recesses is coupled to a first port and the last recess of each line of recesses is coupled to a second port. The intermediate face (2) has a plurality of recesses (21) arranged in m lines, fitted into the plurality of recesses (12) of the top wall (16) of the base plate (13). m is an integer from 1 to about 25 equal to or smaller than n. The recesses (21) of the intermediate face (2) have water permeability. The top plate (3) is reversibly sealed to the intermediate face (2) and the intermediate face (2) is reversibly sealed to the base plate (1). Thus the recesses (12) of the top wall (16) of the base plate (1) define culture chambers. Each culture chamber has a circumferential wall defined by the recess wall (15) and a removable top, which is defined by a portion of the top plate (3). |
| US08617878B2 |
Production of glycoproteins using manganese
Culture media comprising manganese and methods of culturing cells to improve sialylation and glycosylation of glycoproteins are provided. |
| US08617876B2 |
Rhodopsin gene conserved regions in a viral vector enhance expression
The invention relates to gene suppression and replacement. In particular, the invention relates to enhanced expression of suppression agents for suppressing gene expression in a cell and in vivo and replacement nucleic acids that are not inhibited by the suppression agent. Regulatory elements are included in expression vectors to optimize expression of the suppression agent and/or replacement nucleic acid. |
| US08617868B2 |
Asparaginase enzyme variants and uses thereof
The present invention relates to newly identified asparaginase polypeptide variants of SEQ ID NO: 3 and to polynucleotide sequences that encode such novel asparaginase variants. Furthermore the invention relates to the use of these novel asparaginase variants in industrial processes. |
| US08617866B2 |
Robust multi-enzyme preparation for the synthesis of fatty acid alkyl esters
Disclosed is an enzymatic process for the preparation of fatty acid alkyl esters, particularly fatty acids methyl esters (biodiesel) in a solvent-free microaqueous system, from a fatty acid source and an alcohol or alcohol donor, employing a robust lipase preparation that comprises at least two lipases separately or jointly immobilized on a suitable support, where one of the lipases has increased affinity to partial glycerides, another is sn-1,3 positional specific, and an optional third lipase has high selectivity towards sn-2 position of the glycerol backbone of the fatty acid source. |
| US08617860B2 |
Method for producing sclareol
The present invention provides a method of producing sclareol, the method comprising contacting a particular polypeptide having a sclareol synthase activity with labdenediol diphosphate (LPP). In particular, the method may be carried out in vitro or in vivo to produce sclareol, a very useful compound in the fields of perfumery and flavoring. The present invention also provides the amino acid sequence of the polypeptide used in the method. A nucleic acid derived from Salvia sclarea and encoding the polypeptide of the invention, an expression vector containing the nucleic acid, as well as a non-human organism or a cell transformed to harbor the same nucleic acid, are also part of the present invention. |
| US08617859B2 |
C4 dicarboxylic acid production in filamentous fungi
The present invention relates to methods of producing C4 dicarboxylic acids, such as malic acid, comprising: (a) cultivating a host cell comprising a polynucleotide encoding a C4 dicarboxylic acid transporter; and (b) recovering the C4 dicarboxylic acid. The present invention also relates to methods for increasing C4 dicarboxylic acid production, as well as host cells comprising the polynucleotides. |
| US08617855B2 |
Identification and processing of secondary materials for the cosmetics-, pharmaceutical-, and fuel-producing industries and also further industrial fields of application
A method for producing starting materials or additives for cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and/or hydrocarbon-based fuels, especially for heating systems or internal combustion engines, takes organic residues or waste materials and decontaminates or sterilizes them with a hydrogenation process. In particular, the materials classified as K1, K2 or K3 according to EU Directive 1774/2002 are used for generating or producing the cited starting materials or additives, whereby an adequate decontamination of the residues or waste materials that are classified as being hazardous to health is ensured. |
| US08617845B2 |
Sequence diversity generation in immunoglobulins
Compositions and methods are disclosed for generating immunoglobulin structural diversity in vitro, and in particular, for reducing biases in V region and J segment gene utilization, and for generating immunoglobulin V-D-J recombination events in a manner that does not require D-J recombination to precede V-DJ recombination. Selection of advantageous combinations of immunoglobulin gene elements, including introduction of artificial diversity (D) segment genes and optimization of recombination signal sequence (RSS) efficiency, are disclosed. |
| US08617844B2 |
Use of cytokine receptors as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in human cancer
Nucleic acids encoding erythropoietin receptor isoforms are described, as well as the encoded isoforms, methods of detecting the same, and methods of screening for and treating cancer. |
| US08617843B2 |
Recombinant peptide production using a cross-linkable solubility tag
The invention relates to the recombinant expression of a peptide of interest in the form of a fusion protein comprising a solubility tag. The fusion protein comprises at least two portions separated by a cleavable peptide sequence wherein one portion is devoid of cysteine residues and the second portion comprises an effective number of cross-linkable cysteine residues. After cell lysis and isolation of the fusion protein, the fusion protein is subsequently cleaved into a mixture of first and second portions. Oxidative cross-linking is used to selectively precipitate one of the two portions to facilitate simple and effective separation of the peptide of interest. |
| US08617838B2 |
Fluorescent proteins and related methods and compounds
The invention includes fusion polypeptides including a first fluorescent protein, e.g., a FRET donor protein, a second fluorescent protein, e.g., a FRET acceptor protein, and, linked to at least one of the fluorescent (e.g., FRET donor or FRET acceptor) proteins, an Fc-region of an immunoglobulin. The polypeptide can be immobilized with respect to a surface via the Fc-region even in the absence of antibodies to either the FRET donor protein or FRET acceptor protein, and can be used as a calibration standard for fluorescence resonance energy transfer includes a polypeptide. |
| US08617837B2 |
Method of hydrolyzing soluble starch with an alpha-amylase variant
The present invention relates to variants (mutants) of parent Termamyl-like alpha-amylases, which variant has alpha-amylase activity and exhibits altered properties relative to the parent alpha-amylase. |
| US08617828B2 |
Glutathione S-transferase omega 1 wild type specific antibody
The invention relates to a novel antibody which binds to wild type (wt) Glutathione S-transferase Omega 1 (wtGSTO1) but not to mutant (mut) GSTO1 and methods and uses based on the antibody. The antibody is based on novel haptens and immunogens. |
| US08617825B2 |
Predicting mortality and detecting severe disease
Measurement of circulating ST2 and/or IL-33 concentrations is useful for the prognostic evaluation of subjects, in particular for the prediction of adverse clinical outcomes, e.g., mortality, and the detection of severe disease. |
| US08617822B2 |
Method of inhibiting binding or activity of MIF by administering a MIF antagonist
Methods and compositions for using the MHC class II invariant chain polypeptide, Ii (also known as CD74), as a receptor for macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), are disclosed. These include methods and compositions for using this receptor, as well as agonists and antagonists of MIF which bind to this receptor, or which otherwise modulate the interaction of MIF with CD74 or the consequences of such interaction, in treatment of conditions characterized by locally or systemically altered MIF levels, particularly inflammatory conditions and cancer. |
| US08617818B2 |
Compositions and methods for diagnosis and prognosis of cancer and progression, and for screening anti-cancer agents
MicroRNA (miRNA) profiling of cells showed unique miRNA signatures for each of three Akt isoforms. Among differentially regulated miRNA species, the miR-200 family was downregulated in Akt2-expressing cells. Akt1 knockdown inhibited expression of miR-200 and promoted TGFβ-induced epithelial-mesenchymal-transition (EMT) and a stem cell like phenotype. Carcinomas developing in MMTV-cErb2/Akt1−/− mice exhibited increased invasiveness because of EMT induced by miR-200 downregulation. EMT was found to be controlled by miRNA species that are regulated by the balance between Akt1 and Akt2, rather than overall Akt levels. |
| US08617817B2 |
Whole transciptome sequencing
Methods for preparing strand-specific sequencing libraries of oligonucleotides using an RNA polymerase promoter to re-transcribe antisense cDNA which has been reverse transcribed from mRNA are provided. The transcription step linearly amplifies sRNA prior to production of double-stranded cDNA to be sequenced and may be sufficient to eliminate the conventional PCR amplification step prior to sequencing. The methods incorporate anchor sequences, amplification sequences and other sequences required for a particular sequencing system or reaction by hybridization and extension of primers, and transcription of RNA, rather than ligation, thus reducing the number of steps and the time required for sample preparation for sequencing of RNA. Use of primer hybridization and transcription reactions in the methods also results in a library that exhibits reduced 3′ sequence bias. |
| US08617816B2 |
System and method for detection of HIV drug resistant variants
In one embodiment of the invention a method for detecting low frequency occurrence of one or more HIV sequence variants associated with drug resistance is describe that comprises generating cDNA species from RNA molecules in an HIV sample population; amplifying first amplicons from the cDNA species, wherein each amplicon comprises amplified copies and is amplified with a pair of nucleic acid primers that define a locus; clonally amplifying the amplified copies of the first amplicons to produce second amplicons that comprise an immobilized population of substantially identical copies from one of the amplified copies of first amplicons; determining a nucleic acid sequence composition from at least 100 of the immobilized populations in parallel on a single instrument; detecting one or more sequence variants that occur at a frequency of 5% or less in the nucleic acid sequence composition of the at least 100 immobilized populations; and correlating the detected sequence variants with variation associated with HIV drug resistance. |
| US08617815B2 |
Molecules with effects on cellular development and function
This invention relates to methods to stabilize and/or improve the function of parenchymal cells. Also provided are systems of co-cultures of hepatocyte-stabilizing non-parenchymal cells used in bioreactor microenvironments to identify hepatic stabilizing factors by gene-expression profiling. |
| US08617811B2 |
Methods and compositions for efficient base calling in sequencing reactions
The present invention is directed to methods and compositions for acquiring nucleotide sequence information of target sequences. In particular, the present invention provides methods and compositions for improving the efficiency of sequencing reactions by using fewer labels to distinguish between nucleotides and by detecting nucleotides at multiple detection positions in a target sequence. |
| US08617806B2 |
Method to measure and characterize microvesicles in the human body fluids
This disclosure provides a method to capture, detect, characterize and quantify human exosomes in small volumes of human body fluids by using a sandwich ELISA test. This method allows a full characterization of an exosome preparation, thus providing a tool to distinguish a disease-related condition from a healthy state, by the use of a non-invasive assay. In fact, this method may be useful in screening, diagnosis and prognosis of tumors, with a simple plasma sample. At the same time measurement of circulating exosomes may provide information on the level of tumor mass present in a patient. The method provided here is suitable to evaluate presence of some infectious and/or transmissible agents, such as viral proteins or prion proteins, within circulating exosomes. |
| US08617801B2 |
Film with blue dye
A radiographic X-ray film comprising a polymer support. One or more silver halide emulsion layers are coated on each side of the support. A blue dye is contained within at least one of the polymer support or in an adjacent hydrophilic layer in a sufficient amount to result in a CIELAB measurement of L* less than or equal to 80 and b* less than or equal to −25. This configuration provides, after imaging and development, radiographic images having desirable visual contrast, image tone, b*, and image quality. |
| US08617799B2 |
Post arrays and methods of making the same
In general, in one aspect, the invention features a method that includes forming layer of a mask material on a surface of a first layer, patterning the layer of the mask material to obtain a mask feature, the mask feature having a surface comprising a depression, inducing mass transport of the mask material of the mask feature to obtain a modified mask feature, and transferring a profile of the modified mask feature into the first layer to form a first structure. In general, in another aspect, the invention features a method that includes forming layer of a mask material on a surface of a first layer, patterning the layer of the mask material to obtain a mask feature, inducing mass transport of the mask material of the mask feature to obtain a modified mask feature, and transferring a profile of the modified mask feature into the first layer to form a first structure. The first layer is composed of an amorphous material and the first structure is a post having a base side-wall angle of in a range from about 60 degrees to about 80 degrees. |
| US08617798B2 |
Customized lithographic particles
A method of producing particles includes providing a substrate structure that comprises a solid substrate; forming a target structure on said substrate structure, said target structure comprising a radiation-reactive material; forming a spatially patterned beam of radiation using a patterned mask; exposing at least a portion of the target structure to the spatially patterned beam of radiation to which the radiation-reactive material reacts while leaving other portions of the target structure unexposed to the radiation; removing substantially all of one of the exposed or the unexposed patterned portions of the target structure to provide a plurality of non-contiguous structures that include at least a portion of the radiation-reactive material; and separating the plurality of non-contiguous structures comprising the radiation-reactive material from the substrate structure into a fluid material. Each non-contiguous structure of the radiation-reactive material provides at least a portion of a separate particle after the separation. |
| US08617795B2 |
Photosensitive resin composition and pattern forming method using the same
Problem: Providing a photosensitive resin composition that has high sensitivity, sustains a slight shrinkage in volume when cured under heating and can form resist patterns having high-aspect profiles, and a pattern forming method using such a composition.Means for Resolution: A photosensitive resin composition characterized by containing (a) a polyfunctional epoxy resin, (b) a cationic polymerization initiator and (c) an aromatic polycyclic compound as a sensitizer (such as 2,3-dihydroxynaphthalene, 1,5-dihydroxynaphthalene or 2,6-dihydroxynaphthalene), which has at least two substituents capable of forming cross-links with component (a). |
| US08617793B2 |
Waterless planographic printing plate precursor
A waterless planographic printing plate precursor is capable of plate inspection without a post-dyeing step, capable of being handled in a light room and excellent in coloring matter fixing in silicone rubber layer. The waterless planographic printing plate precursor has at least a photosensitive layer or heat sensitive layer and a silicone rubber layer on a substrate, which is a waterless planographic printing plate precursor characterized in that a color pigment is contained in the above-mentioned silicone rubber layer, and it is possible to obtain a more excellent effect by further incorporating, in the above-mentioned silicone rubber layer, a pigment dispersant containing an organic complex compound comprising of a metal and an organic compound. Furthermore, when aluminum and/or titanium is contained as the above-mentioned metal, a more excellent effect can be obtained. |
| US08617791B2 |
Fluorine-free fused ring heteroaromatic photoacid generators and resist compositions containing the same
The present invention relates to a fluorine-free photoacid generator (PAG) and a photoresist composition containing the same. The PAG is characterized by the presence of an onium cationic component and a fluorine-free fused ring heteroaromatic sulfonate anionic component containing one or more electron withdrawing substituents. The onium cationic component of the PAG is preferably a sulfonium or an iodonium cation. The photoresist composition further contains an acid sensitive imaging polymer. The photoresist composition is especially useful for forming material patterns on a semiconductor substrate using 193 nm (ArF) lithography. |
| US08617789B2 |
Photoacid generator, method for producing the same, and resist composition comprising the same
A photoacid generator represented by the following formula (1), a method for producing the photoacid generator, and a resist composition containing the photoacid generator are provided. wherein in the formula (1), Y1, Y2, X, R1, R2, n1, n2 and A+ have the same meanings as defined in the detailed description of the invention. The photoacid generator can maintain an appropriate contact angle at the time of ArF liquid immersion lithography, can reduce defects occurring during liquid immersion lithography, and has excellent solubility in resist solvents and excellent compatibility with resins. Furthermore, the photoacid generator can be produced by an efficient and simple method using an epoxy compound that is industrially easily available. |
| US08617783B2 |
Electrophotographic ink, liquid toner producing methods, and digital printing methods
An ink contains dispersed particles, individually including at least one thermoplastic first resin exhibiting a MFI less than or equal to 100, at least one thermoplastic second resin exhibiting a MFI greater than 100, and a white pigment. A liquid toner producing method includes forming a paste containing the resins, combining the paste with a white pigment, and after combining the paste and pigment, applying a shear force, encapsulating the pigment, and dispersing the encapsulated pigment. A digital printing method includes providing a liquid marking agent containing charged particles dispersed in a carrier liquid, individual particles including at least one thermoplastic first resin and at least one thermoplastic second resin encapsulating a white pigment, and printing a hard image on a substrate. At least a portion of the image has a white color. |
| US08617782B2 |
Liquid developer
A liquid developer includes at least toner particles and an insulating liquid. The toner particles include a resin and a color material dispersed in the resin. 90 mass % or more of the insulating liquid is aliphatic saturated hydrocarbon having a carbon number of 11 to 16, and 20 to 60 mass % of the insulating liquid is aliphatic saturated hydrocarbon having a carbon number of 11 to 12. |
| US08617778B2 |
Image bearing member, image forming apparatus, and process cartridge
An image bearing member including an electroconductive substrate, a charge generation layer, a charge transport layer and, a cross-linked type charge transport layer, the cross-linked type charge transport layer having a structure unit deriving from a first component, a second component, and a third component, the first component containing a copolymer having a cyclic structure and/or a structure represented by a Chemical structure 1 as a repeating unit, where Ra represents a hydrogen atom or methyl group and Rb represents a straight-chained saturated aliphatic hydrocarbon group having 8 to 34 carbon atoms, the second component containing at least one of a radical polymerizable monomer and a radical polymerizable oligomer without a charge transport structure, and the third component containing one or more kinds of radical polymerizable compounds having a charge transport structure. |
| US08617774B2 |
Method and calibration mask for calibrating a position measuring apparatus
A method for calibrating an apparatus for the position measurement of measurement structures on a lithography mask comprises the following steps: qualifying a calibration mask comprising diffractive structures arranged thereon by determining positions of the diffractive structures with respect to one another by means of interferometric measurement, determining positions of measurement structures arranged on the calibration mask with respect to one another by means of the apparatus, and calibrating the apparatus by means of the positions determined for the measurement structures and also the positions determined for the diffractive structures. |
| US08617770B2 |
Electrodes containing oxygen evolution reaction catalysts
One embodiment of the invention includes a method including providing a cathode catalyst ink comprising a first catalyst, an oxygen evolution reaction catalyst, and a solvent; and depositing the cathode catalyst ink on one of a polymer electrolyte membrane, a gas diffusion medium layer, or a decal backing. |
| US08617767B2 |
Methods and systems for determining and controlling fuel concentrations in fuel cells
Methods and systems for electrical determination and adjustment of the fuel concentration in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC) are provided. |
| US08617766B2 |
Method for co-generation of electric energy and hydrogen
A method for simultaneous co-generation of electric energy and hydrogen by totally electrochemical means which includes an electricity storage phase by electrolysis of an electrolysable metal solution and formation of a hydrogen-electrolysable metal battery cell and, an electricity recovery and hydrogen generation phase by operation of said battery cell. The electrolysable metal is chosen from zinc, nickel and manganese. |
| US08617765B2 |
Chemically stabilized ionomers containing inorganic fillers
Ionomeric polymers that are chemically stabilized and contain inorganic fillers are prepared, and show reduced degradation. The ionomers care useful in membranes and electrochemical cells. |
| US08617760B2 |
Localized deactivation of a membrane
A method including providing an ion conductive membrane and deactivating a selected region of the membrane. |
| US08617758B2 |
Humidity regulation fuel cell
A hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell including a main cell and an auxiliary cell sharing a common electrolyte and having at least one separate electrode, circuitry for measuring the humidity ratio of the electrolyte, and control and switching circuitry for operating the main and auxiliary cells in parallel on a same load or separately on two different loads. |
| US08617757B2 |
Fuel cell system
A fuel cell system includes a storage device, a fuel cell, a power circuit, a controller, and a memory. The memory stores a favorable combination range in which the combination of a water distribution condition of the fuel cell and the state of charge of the storage device is suitable for the required power of the vehicle, and the controller includes a water distribution condition estimating and acquiring unit that acquires the water distribution condition of the fuel cell, a state-of-charge acquiring unit that acquires the state of charge of the storage device, a combination status determining unit that determines whether the combination of the acquired water distribution condition and the acquired state of charge is within the favorable combination range, and a combination status improving unit that improves the water distribution condition of the fuel cell when the combination is not within the favorable combination range. |
| US08617755B2 |
Fuel cell and heating device of a fuel cell
The invention relates to a fuel cell comprising a separator, plate that is positioned between electrolyte-electrode units, said plate consisting of two embossed panels with contact surfaces that rest against one another. A fluidic chamber for a coolant is configured between the two pans and a fluidic chamber for a gas is configured between each panel and the respective adjacent electrolyte-electrode unit. The fluidic chamber for the coolant comprises two sub-chambers, each facing a respective panel, and said coolant traverses the fluidic chamber exclusively in an alternate manner through the two sub-chambers. |
| US08617752B2 |
Cold start compressor control and mechanization in a fuel cell system
A fuel cell system is disclosed, wherein the fuel cell system is heated by a fluid during a starting operation to mitigate against vapor condensation and ice formation in a fuel cell assembly and to decrease a warm up time of the fuel cell system. |
| US08617750B2 |
Metal air battery including a composite anode
Implementations and techniques for metal air batteries including a composite anode are generally disclosed. |
| US08617745B2 |
Lithium secondary cell with high charge and discharge rate capability and low impedance growth
A lithium-ion battery is provided that has a fast charge and discharge rate capability and low rate of capacity fade during high rate cycling. The battery can exhibit low impedance growth and other properties allowing for its use in hybrid electric vehicle applications and other applications where high power and long battery life are important features. |
| US08617744B2 |
Electricity storage device
There can be provided an energy storage device comprising a positive electrode comprising a nitroxyl compound having a nitroxyl cation partial structure in an oxidized state and having a nitroxyl radical partial structure in a reduced state; a negative electrode comprising a carbon material which lithium ions can be reversibly intercalated into and deintercalated from; and an electrolytic solution comprising a lithium salt and an aprotic organic solvent, wherein the negative electrode is a negative electrode comprising the carbon material which lithium ions are previously intercalated into, apart from lithium ions associated with a capacity A of lithium capable of being intercalated and deintercalated in charge and discharge, thereby allowing the energy storage device to simultaneously achieve high energy density, high output characteristics, low environmental load, and high stability in charge and discharge cycles. |
| US08617743B2 |
Anode balanced lithium-iron disulfide primary cell
A primary electrochemical cell having an anode comprising lithium and a cathode comprising iron disulfide (FeS2) and carbon particles. The cell is balanced so that the anode is in theoretical capacity excess (mAmp-hrs) compared to the theoretical capacity of the cathode. The anode and cathode can be spirally wound with separator therebetween and inserted into the cell casing with electrolyte then added. The electrolyte comprises a lithium salt dissolved in organic solvent. |
| US08617741B2 |
Battery device and electronic apparatus
A battery charger includes a battery attachment section configured to have a rechargeable battery releasably attached thereto. The battery attachment section includes a flat attachment surface having a width corresponding to a width of a bottom surface of a case of the battery to be charged and a length greater than a length of the bottom surface of the case of the battery to be charged; a plurality of locking hooks provided on the attachment surface; a charger terminal configured to contact a terminal of the battery to be charged, the charger terminal including a plurality of plate-shaped contact pieces configured to be inserted into engaging grooves of the battery to be charged; and an attachment projection adjacent to the attachment surface and configured to secure the battery to the charger. |
| US08617734B2 |
Pressure-relief mechanism to improve safety in lithium-polymer battery cells
The disclosed embodiments relate to a battery cell which includes a weakness for relieving pressure. This battery cell includes a jelly roll comprising layers which are wound together, including a cathode with an active coating, a separator and an anode with an active coating. The jelly roll also includes a first conductive tab coupled to the cathode and a second conductive tab coupled to the anode. The jelly roll is enclosed in a flexible pouch, wherein the first and second conductive tabs extend through seals in the pouch to provide terminals for the battery cell. This pouch includes a weakness which yields when internal pressure in the pouch exceeds a threshold to create a hole which releases the internal pressure. |
| US08617730B2 |
Battery for electric vehicle
A battery configured as a plurality of battery cells for an electric vehicle with one board for supplying electric power to an electric motor. Each battery cell is provided with positive and negative electrodes on the side of the board. The board is provided with a plurality of cell connecting parts for transmitting cell information of each battery cell corresponding to each electrode. Sensor wiring connects each electrode and each cell connecting part. Wiring is formed are arranged over the board that radiates heat via an insulating adhesive. A heating element is mounted on a first heat-conduction member formed on a top face of the uppermost wiring board. A second heat-conduction member is formed on the downside of the lowermost wiring board. The first heat-conduction member and the second heat-conduction member are touched via a third heat-conduction member arranged in a through hole bored through each wiring board. |
| US08617722B2 |
Polymer compound and organic electroluminescence element using the same
The present invention provides a polymer material capable of preparing organic EL elements having low driving voltage and high durability. The polymer compound of the present invention includes a constituting unit derived from a monomer represented by the formula (1); (in the formula (1), each of A1's is independently a condensed polycyclic aromatic group optionally having a heteroatom as a ring-constituting atom; the condensed polycyclic aromatic group links to A2 at the meta position to the bonding position of the ring represented by the following formula; each of A2's is independently a six-membered ring aromatic group optionally having a heteroatom as a ring-constituting atom; at least one of A1 and A2 has a substituent having a polymerizable functional group; at least one of X's is a nitrogen atom, and n's are independently 1 or 2). |
| US08617717B2 |
Heat sealable films from propylene and α-olefin units
A film structure having a base layer comprising a film-forming thermoplastic polymer; and a heat-seal layer having a seal-initiation temperature less than or about 130° C. and comprising from about 50 to about 98 wt % of a first polymer component and about 2 to about 50 wt % of a second polymer component. The first polymer component comprising propylene-derived units and, optionally, up to about 20 wt % of comonomer units derived from a C2 and/or C4-C20 α-olefin, and having a heat of fusion greater than 75 J/g and a melting point greater than or equal to 105° C. The second polymer component comprising at least 75 wt % propylene-derived units, and having a melting point less than 105° C. and a heat of fusion less than 75 J/g. |
| US08617716B2 |
Film-coated glazing having a protective layer of mixed titanium oxide
The present invention relates to essentially transparent glazings comprising a system of films deposited under vacuum by magnetron, and having antisun and/or low-emission properties, comprising as protective surface layer a layer based on titanium oxide and on at least one other metal oxide of high hardness from the group comprising: ZrO2, SiO2, Cr2O3. The glazings according to the invention are of a nature to withstand a heat treatment at 550° C. for 5 minutes without giving rise to the presence of optical effects, especially of coloration or iridescence. These glazings are termed toughenable. |
| US08617715B2 |
Fire retardant shades
A fire retardant solar control sun shade comprising as the shade material, a clear transparent film composite comprising a first transparent film layer, preferably with a metallized layer on one side, and a further transparent film layer adhered to said one side of the first film layer using an adhesive, the adhesive and at least one of said two polymeric film layers contain fire retardant material. |
| US08617707B2 |
Magic size nanoclusters and methods of preparing same
Disclosed herein are magic size nanoclusters comprising lead and one or more chalcogens. The disclosed magic size nanoclusters have both spectrally narrow fluorescence and ultra-high quantum efficiencies. Further disclosed herein is a method for preparing PbS, PbSe, and PbTe magic size nanoclusters. The yield of magic size nanoclusters can be increased by using anion sources enriched for secondary phosphines. The use of enriched secondary phosphine anion sources also increases the yield of quantum nanostructures. |
| US08617706B2 |
Pellets comprising polymer and package containing the same
First pellets according to the present invention is characterized by satisfying all of the following requirements (Z), (1), (2), and (3): (Z) the pellet comprises a polymer (A) having an elastic modulus in tension of 100 MPa or less, (1) the pellets have an average weight per 30 pellets in the range of 0.80 to 2.00 g; (2) the pellets have a particle size distribution obtained by sieving in which pellets providing a maximum weight fraction account for 90 to 100% of the pellets; and (3) the pellets have a Lave/Dave value in the range of 1.00 to 1.70. Second pellets according to the present invention is characterized by satisfying the requirements of the (Z) and the following (4): (4) the pellets have a blocking force of 35 N or less that is measured after the pellets are left under a load at 35° C. for 24 hours and further at −10° C. for 7 days. |
| US08617705B2 |
Adhesive composition and sheet for forming semiconductor wafer-protective film
There is disclosed an adhesive composition containing: (A) 100 parts by mass of a phenoxy resin; (B) 5 to 200 parts by mass of an epoxy resin; (C) 1 to 20 parts by mass of an alkoxysilane-partial hydrolytic condensate which is a partial hydrolytic condensate of alkoxysilane including one kind or two or more kinds of alkoxysilane represented by the following general formulae (1) and (2) Si(OR3)4 (1) R1Si(OR3)3 (2), wherein the weight average molecular weight is 300 or more and 30,000 or less and an amount of residual alkoxy is 2 wt % or more and 50 wt % or less; (D) a curing catalyst for an epoxy resin; (E) an inorganic filler; and (F) a polar solvent having a boiling point of 80° C. to 180° C. and a surface tension of 20 to 30 dyne/cm at 25° C. There can be a sheet for forming a semiconductor wafer-protective film and an adhesive composition capable of forming a protective film excellent in evenness, cutting characteristics and adhesiveness. |
| US08617704B2 |
Surface modification for enhanced silanation of ceramic materials
A coated medical implant, such as a coated dental component, is provided, the coated medical implant including a substrate surface formed of a material comprising available hydroxyl groups and a silicon oxide coating layer chemisorbed on the substrate surface. A method for the preparation of such coated implants is also provided, the method involving application of the silicon oxide coating layer to the substrate surface by chemical vapor deposition. A dental structure is also provided, which includes a first dental component having a substrate surface formed of a material comprising available hydroxyl groups; a silicon oxide coating layer chemisorbed on the substrate surface; a silane coupling agent overlying and covalently attached to the silicon oxide layer; a dental cement overlying and coupled to the silane coupling agent; and a second dental component having a surface bonded to the dental cement. |
| US08617703B2 |
Gas barrier layered product and method for producing the same
The gas barrier layered product of the present invention includes a base and a gas barrier layer. The gas barrier layer is formed of a composition that includes a hydrolyzed condensate of a compound (L) and a neutralized product of a polymer (X) containing a carboxyl group or a carboxylic acid anhydride group. The compound (L) includes a specific compound (A) that contains M1 (Al, Ti, or Zr) to which a hydrolyzable characteristic group is bonded and a specific compound (B) that contains Si to which a hydrolyzable characteristic group is bonded. At least part of —COO— group of the polymer (X) is neutralized with a metal ion having a valence of at least two. At least 80 mol % of the compound (B) is a compound expressed by a specific formula. The ratio of [the number of moles of M1 in the compound (A)]/[the number of moles Si in the compound (B)] is in the range of 0.1/99.9 to 30.0/70.0. |
| US08617701B2 |
Dark type fluororesin film and back sheet for solar cell module
A fluororesin film usable as the outermost layer of a back sheet for a solar cell module, which is a dark type fluororesin film having a sufficient electric insulation property and weather resistance, and which is particularly excellent in thermal resistance; and a back sheet for a solar cell module employing such a film, which dark type fluororesin film, which is a fluororesin film contains an ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene copolymer as the main component and contains from 1.0 to 4.5 parts by mass of a carbon black having a pH of from 8 to 10 as measured according to JIS K6221 section 6.4.2 based on 100 parts by mass of the ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene copolymer. |
| US08617700B2 |
Thermoplastic composition having improved X-ray contrast, method of making, and articles prepared therefrom
Disclosed herein is an article and thermoplastic composition comprising a polysiloxane-polycarbonate, optionally, a polycarbonate, and an X-ray contrast agent comprising X-ray scattering atoms having an atomic number of greater than or equal to 22, wherein a 3.2 mm thick article molded from the thermoplastic composition has a notched Izod impact strength of greater than or equal to about 620 J/m, when measured at a temperature of 0° C. according to ASTM D256-04, and has an Equivalent Al Thickness of greater than 0.51 mm, when irradiated with 50 kV X-ray radiation, and wherein melt volume rates determined under a load of 1.2 kg at 300° C. (ASTM D1238-04), a melt volume rate measured at a dwell time of 18 minutes increases relative to that measured at 6 minutes by less than or equal to 31%. A method of improving contrast in a polycarbonate composition, and specific articles are also disclosed. |
| US08617699B2 |
Manufacturing and assembly of roofing components
A method includes dispensing a first polymer or predominantly polymer material foam precursor and allowing the precursor to rise and at least partially set to form a foam core layer for an insulation board, the foam core layer having a first density. The method further comprises dispensing a second polymer or predominantly polymer material foam precursor and allowing the second precursor to rise and set to form a core layer for a cover board, the core layer for the cover board having a second density greater than the first density. The second foam precursor may include polyisocyanurate. The method may also include feeding facer materials over the precursors to form facers on the core layers. Such insulation boards and cover boards may be cut to length and installed on a roof. |
| US08617695B2 |
Multivariate color system with texture application
Implementations of the present invention relate to a translucent and/or transparent polymer-based panel system that incorporates multi-colored insert layers that enable manipulation of color, transparency or light transmission of the finished panel system. Implementations of the present invention also relate to the construction of such panels to avoid the capture and retention of air within the panels through the use of textured surfaces at the lamination interfaces. In addition, implementations of the present invention provide a method of quantifying the optical response achieved in a given panel system and describes types of construction that enable the multiplicity of color and optic manipulation. Furthermore, implementations of the present invention provide methods for applying texture in an efficient, uniform manner. |
| US08617692B2 |
Moisture resistant container
A sheet of cellulose based material having enhanced strength, particularly the dry strength, substantially unaffected repulpability is disclosed. The sheet of cellulose based materials generally includes a first cellulose based material connected with a second cellulose base material element. The first cellulose based material is formed by separating a portion of the fiber from a furnish, treating the separated portion with a cationic wet strength resin which is allowed to bond to the fiber. The treated fiber is then mixed with the untreated balance of the fiber at some point before the paper machine. The fiber that is separated may be secondary fiber, virgin fiber or combinations thereof. The second cellulose base material element is substantially free from any treatment. The second cellulose base material element may be include substantially all untreated fibers. |
| US08617690B2 |
Directly laminated plate
The invention relates to a directly laminated plate that is produced by heat pressing a core with absorbing, resin-impregnated layers, wherein at least one plate surface has a decorative layer with a graphic representation of the surface of an imitated material, in addition to a resin-impregnated, transparent cover layer place on the decorative layer, having a relief-like imitation of the surface structure of the imitated material. An intermediate ply containing resin is provided between the decorative layer and the core. |
| US08617689B2 |
Bonding of substrates including metal-dielectric patterns with metal raised above dielectric and structures so formed
Bonding of substrates including metal-dielectric patterns on a surface with the metal raised above the dielectric, as well as related structures, are disclosed. One method includes providing a first substrate having a metal-dielectric pattern on a surface thereof; providing a second substrate having a metal-dielectric pattern on a surface thereof; performing a process resulting in the metal being raised above the dielectric; cleaning the metal; and bonding the first substrate to the second substrate. A related structure is also disclosed. The bonding of raised metal provides a strong bonding medium, and good electrical and thermal connections enabling creation of three dimensional integrated structures with enhanced functionality. |
| US08617685B2 |
Cleaning sheet
Conventional cleaning sheets having brush parts provided on a surface of substratum sheet have been satisfactory in the trapping of dirt or dust at the brush parts but unsatisfactory in the trapping of dirt or dust at areas between brush parts where no brush is present. It is intended to provide a cleaning sheet with which any dirt or dust having sneaked through areas between brush parts and remaining untrapped can be trapped by brush parts provided in alternately positioning relationship adjacent to the brush parts, thereby attaining effective cleaning. The cleaning sheet comprises a sheet substratum and, disposed on at least one major surface thereof, multiple brush part lines each provided with multiple brush parts arranged intermittently along one direction of the sheet substratum, the multiple brush part lines arranged in a direction intersecting with the one direction, and that mutually adjacent brush part lines are provided so that the respective brush parts are alternately positioned. |
| US08617681B2 |
Method and apparatus for producing labeled, plastic foam containers, and product of same
A method and apparatus for producing labeled, plastic foam containers, such as a labeled EPS cup uses a heated pocket to thermally bond a label to a plastic cup. Also described is a labeled plastic foam container, such as a labeled EPS cup, having high quality printing capabilities, sufficient stiffness, acceptable insulation and barrier properties and reduced production cost. |
| US08617679B2 |
Large-volume packing container for bitumen
The invention relates to a large-volume packing container for bitumen, the container being made of flexible material and having approximately a truncated pyramid-like basic shape prior to filling, wherein the container is closed at the top by a cover wall (6) extending parallel to the bottom surface and having a preferably central filling opening (10). In order to achieve self-stabilization during filling, or stability during storage, in the temperature range from 100° to 110° C. the woven fabric forming the walls (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) has a stretching capacity of 10-25%, preferably 15-20%, in the direction of the warp and weft, wherein stabilizing means (14), such as pleats, seams, strips or the like are drawn or sewn into the lower region of the fabric panels forming the lateral walls (1, 2, 3, 4) in order to stabilize the woven fabric to forces occurring obliquely to the warp and weft. |
| US08617676B2 |
Preform for producing plastic containers in a two-stage stretch blow-moulding process
A preform is disclosed for producing plastic flasks in a two-stage stretch blow-molding process, including a preform base, an elongated preform body, including one longitudinal end sealed to the preform base and another longitudinal end sealed to the neck portion a neck portion with threaded sections or positive protrusions, wherein the preform is manufactured from a plastic that is suitable for the stretch blow-molding process, which has a refractive index of 1.3 to 1.6 at a temperature of 10° C. to 120° C., and in that an outside wall and an inside wall of the preform base bound a flat divergent lens, and in each case have radii of curvature (c, b) that are larger by at least a factor 1.4 than a related radius of curvature (s) of an outside wall or a radius of curvature (R) of an inside wall of the preform in the area of the preform body. |
| US08617674B2 |
Sealing of a cap on a glass container
A multi-layer sheet designed for the sealing of a container (10) made of glass by heat sealing on the sealing ring (12) of the container treated by means of oxides and/or of metal salts comprises at least a support layer (21) and a lower layer (22) made of a polymeric heat-sealable material onto which is grafted an unsaturated carboxylic acid. |
| US08617673B1 |
Thermoformable heat-sealable PET sheet material
A sheet for thermoforming is comprised of a material which is compatible with PET and which has slower crystallinity and a crystallization temperature which is at least 77° C. greater than its glass transition temperature, more preferably a crystallization temperature greater than 151° C. The material may be coextruded into a sheet with a first PET material, such that when thermoformed into a formed part the layers of second material are engaged with each other in the molded parts and for being subjected to heat sealing. |
| US08617669B1 |
Laser formation of graphene
An apparatus and method is disclosed for synthesizing graphene comprising the steps of providing a substrate and focusing a laser beam in the presence of a carbon doping gas to induce photolytic decomposition of the gas to atomic carbon. The carbon is photolytically reacted with the substrate to grow graphene. |
| US08617668B2 |
Method of using nitrogen based compounds to reduce contamination in beam-induced thin film deposition
A method of depositing a material on a work piece surface. The method comprising providing a deposition precursor gas at the work piece surface; providing a purification compound including a nitrogen-containing compound at the work piece surface; and directing a beam toward a local region on the work piece surface, the beam causing decomposition of the precursor gas to fabricate a deposit on the work piece surface, the deposited material including a contaminant, the purification compound causing a reduction in the concentration of the contaminant and providing a deposited material that includes less contamination than a material deposited using the same methodology but without using a purification compound. |
| US08617661B2 |
Systems and methods for fabricating a direct metal deposition structure having fully forged structural qualities
A method for fabricating a direct metal deposition (DMD) structure having substantially fully forged structural qualities is provided. In various embodiments, the method includes depositing a layer of metallic material onto an existing metallic structure having a microstructure that provides the existing metallic structure with substantially fully forged structural qualities. The DMD layer has a microstructure that provides the DMD layer with non-forged structural qualities. The method additionally includes applying a friction stir process to the deposited DMD layer utilizing a friction stir device such that the deposited DMD layer and at least a DMD affected zone of the existing metallic structure are friction stirred to refine and homogenize the microstructure of the deposited DMD layer and at least the DMD affected zone of the existing metallic structure, thereby producing a non-forged aggregate structure having a microstructure that provides the aggregate structure substantially fully forged structural qualities. |
| US08617657B2 |
Small block copolymer of polyimide
A method of making a block polyimide copolymer containing a first small block copolymer segment and a second larger block segment includes the steps of (a) reacting a first aromatic acid dianhydride with an aromatic diamine in a molar ratio from about 10:100 to about 50:100, respectively, to obtain the small block copolymer, (b) reacting the small block copolymer and excess amount of diamine with a second acid dianhydride in such a quantity that a total aromatic acid dianhydride and a total aromatic diamine are equimolar to obtain a precursor solution containing the first small block copolymer segment and the second larger block segment, (c) forming a film, laminate, or coating on a substrate, and (d) cyclodehydrating the film, laminate, or coating by chemical or thermal imidization. |
| US08617653B2 |
Over-coating agent for forming fine patterns and a method of forming fine patterns using such agent
It is disclosed an over-coating agent for forming fine patterns which is applied to cover a substrate having photoresist patterns thereon and allowed to shrink under heat so that the spacing between adjacent photoresist patterns is lessened, with the applied film of the over-coating agent being removed to form fine patterns, further characterized by comprising a water-soluble polymer which contains a monomeric component and a dimeric component, wherein the total content of the monomeric component and the dimeric component in the water-soluble polymer is reduced to 10 mass % or less, and a method of forming fine patterns using the same. By the present invention, even in reducing the pattern size on a substrate having thereon patterns having different pitches, the heat shrinkage of the over-coating agent can be controlled, irrespective whether the pitch is dense or isolate, thus achieving the pattern size reduction. |
| US08617648B2 |
Imaging members and method of treating an imaging member
A method for treating a metal substrate or a metallized substrate of an imaging member including providing a metal or metallized substrate of an imaging member; treating the metal or metallized substrate with a sol-gel composition comprising a rare earth metal to form a passivation layer on the metal or metallized substrate using a sol-gel process. |
| US08617647B2 |
Water-absorbent adhesive compositions and associated methods of manufacture and use
An adhesive composition is provided that is water-insoluble yet water-absorbent, i.e., capable of absorbing up to 15 wt. % water or more. The composition in composed of a film-forming hydrophilic polymer with at least one linear segment having a plurality of recurring polar groups along the polymer backbone, a complementary multifunctional polymer with a plurality of recurring functional groups that noncovalently bind to the polar groups on the film-forming polymer, and plasticizer. A method for manufacturing the adhesive composition is provided as well. |
| US08617646B2 |
Metallic ink composition and writing instrument containing same
Metallic ink compositions for use in capillary-action markers are provided. More particularly, a metallic ink composition including an aliphatic solvent, a metallic pigment, and a resin combination including at least a fixing resin and a priming resin is provided. |
| US08617642B2 |
Preparation of thin film for solar cell using paste
A preparation method of a CIS-based or CIGS-based thin film for a light absorption layer of a solar cell, which uses a paste prepared by mixing precursors of Cu, In, Se, and optional Ga in a solvent, minimizes the raw material loss, does not produce a toxic gas during the process, and is suitable for producing a large scale film at a low production cost. |
| US08617641B2 |
Coated article comprising colloidal silica inclusive anti-reflective coating, and method of making the same
Certain example embodiments of this invention relate to coated articles that include anti-reflective (AR) coatings produced from colloidal silica with variable size particles in formulation, and/or methods of making the same. In certain example embodiments, the AR coatings advantageously exhibit high transmission, high transmission gain with respect to uncoated articles, and high b* values, before and/or after heat treatment. The AR coatings of certain example embodiments may be temperable or otherwise heat treatable (e.g., at temperatures of 500 degrees C. or greater) together with their supporting substrates. In certain example embodiments, the particle size for the colloidal silica is 10-110 nm, and the b* values are at least about 0.8. Certain example embodiments may be used in connection with photovoltaic devices and/or the like. |
| US08617639B2 |
Golf ball manufacturing method
A method of manufacturing golf balls having a highly transparent cover includes, prior to formation of the cover, a preformed body fabricating step wherein a fluorescent material that emits light when exposed to ultraviolet radiation is included in or coated onto the preformed body. In this way, a preformed body which matches a cover to be formed can be easily and reliably identified from among a plurality of types of preformed bodies stored at a temporary storage place. This manufacturing method enables golf balls of excellent visibility and stylishness to be efficiently produced. |
| US08617638B2 |
Method of manufacturing photoluminescent pavers at a paver manufacturing facility
A method is disclosed of manufacturing photoluminescent paving blocks or pavers at a paver manufacturing facility. A curable paver composition is provided at a mixing station for mixing. The mixed composition is shaped into uncured pavers having upper surfaces at a forming station. A curable liquid coating composition is applied to the upper surfaces of the uncured pavers at one or more coating stations. The uncured pavers and the coating composition applied thereon are heated in a kiln at a curing station to cure the uncured pavers. After leaving the kiln, the coating composition is cured to form a photoluminescent pigment layer having a binder with photoluminescent particulate pigment essentially uniformly dispersed in the binder and an optically transmissive clear coat layer in overlying relationship with the pigment layer. |
| US08617634B2 |
Sn-2 myristate-containing edible oil
A nutritional fat or oil-based composition for increasing HDL cholesterol, decreasing LDL cholesterol and decreasing the LDL/HDL cholesterol ratio in human plasma is described. The composition can advantageously include at least 1% by weight myristic acid esterified at the sn-2 position in triglyceride molecules, includes between 10% and 40% by weight linoleic acid, and further includes between 30% and 65% by weight oleic acid and between 15% and 40% by weight total saturated fatty acids. The ratio of sn-2 myristic acid to sn-2 palmitic acid is typically greater than 1:1 and the sum of weight percentages for saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids equals 100%. In desirable cases, the composition is substantially cholesterol-free. |
| US08617631B2 |
Oligosaccharide ingredient
An oligosaccharide ingredient comprising glycosylated amino acids and peptides of the general formula RnSacm where R is an amino acid residue, Sac is a monosaccharide selected from the group comprising N-acetyl-neuraminic acid, N-acetyl galactosamine and galactose, n has a value between (1) and (10) with the proviso that if n has the value (1) R is a threonine residue or a serine residue and if n has a value between (2) and (10) the peptide contains at least one threonine or serine residue, m has a value between (2) and (4) and at least (20) mol % of the ingredient is N-acetyl-neuraminic acid. |
| US08617627B2 |
Form-retaining pad for preparing a beverage suitable for consumption
A form-retaining pad for preparing a beverage suitable for consumption includes a first covering and a form-providing stiffening body, and a substance which is soluble in a liquid. The covering includes a top sheet and a bottom sheet that are manufactured from a material non-transmissive to the soluble substance, but transmissive to the substance dissolved in a liquid. The form-providing stiffening body is between the top sheet and the bottom sheet. The stiffening body has a compartmenting wall configuration having a grid structure which is transmissive to liquid from the top side to the bottom side. At least a part of the soluble substance is accommodated in the grid structure, and each compartment is surrounded by the wall configuration, the top sheet and the bottom sheet. At least the bottom side of the stiffening body includes a bulging part extending away from the top sheet. |
| US08617626B2 |
Dietay supplement composition
The present invention provides a composition containing water-soluble dietary fiber and an organic calcium salt. The composition is freely flowable and dissolves quickly. The composition provides dietary fiber and calcium in a convenient delivery format. |
| US08617623B2 |
Chewing gum with delayed-interaction modifier
A chewing gum comprises a primary chewing gum composition comprising gum base, a sweetener and a flavoring agent and a food acceptable delayed-release modification agent. The delayed-release modification agent reacts with the primary chewing gum composition after a chewed cud of the gum composition is formed, causing the primary gum to exhibit increased environmental acceptability after the chewed cud is discarded. |
| US08617610B2 |
Compositions and methods for increasing the stability of food product additives
Disclosed are compositions including powdered green tea extract and a powdered preparation comprising polyunsaturated fatty acids. Also disclosed are methods of preparing the compositions and using the compositions in food products, as well as food products containing or that are prepared from the compositions. |
| US08617602B2 |
Immediate release compositions and methods for delivering drug formulations using weak acid ion exchange resins in abnormally high pH environments
Multi-layer solid oral dosage immediate release and extended release compositions and methods for delivering drug formulations using weak acid ion exchange resins in abnormally high pH environments. |
| US08617597B2 |
Pharmaceutical composition containing a tetrahydrofolic acid
The present invention relates to solid pharmaceutical compositions, in particular to oral contraceptives, comprising a progestogen, such as drospirenone; an estrogen, such as ethinylestradiol; a tetrahydrofolic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, such as calcium 5-methyl-(6S)-tetrahydrofolate; and at least one pharmaceutical acceptable excipient or carrier. The compositions of the invention provide good stability of the tetrahydrofolic acid upon storage while still ensuring a fast and reliable release of the estrogen and the progestogen present in the composition. |
| US08617593B2 |
Stable pharmaceutical composition and methods of using same
The present invention relates to, inter alia, pharmaceutical compositions comprising a polyunsaturated fatty acid and to methods of using the same to treat or prevent cardiovascular-related diseases. |
| US08617590B2 |
Method for increasing muscle strength
A method of increasing strength using a nutrient holding device (pedal device, hat band, necklace, locket, belt, etc.) which contains at least one nutrient which has the ability to stimulate reflex zones on the skin resulting in improved performance when worn during athletic endeavors (exercise). |
| US08617586B2 |
Hydrophilic coating that reduces particle development on ester-linked poly(ester-block-amide)
Articles such as catheters or balloons that have an ester-linked poly(ester-block-amide) substrate have a lubricious hydrogel coating which suppresses particle development under accelerated aging conditions. A polymerizable coating composition is applied to the substrate without application of an intervening primer layer and cured. The coating composition comprises an uncrosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone polymer that is free of attached photoinitiator groups and at least one polyfunctional ethylenically unsaturated monomer. |
| US08617584B2 |
Adhesive tissue repair patch and collagen sheets
The present invention relates generally to synthetic polymer compositions that form interpenetrating polymer networks. In a preferred embodiment, the compositions comprise two multifunctionally activated synthetic polymers, along with a tensile strength enhancer. Such compositions form matrices that exhibit superior cohesive strength and in many instances can serve as adequate replacements for surgical means of attaching tissues, such as sutures, sponges and medical staples. |
| US08617575B2 |
Methods for conferring immunity against protozoans in an animal
Immunity against protozoan is conferred on an animal by a method comprising orally administering to an animal a transformed plant cell comprising a polynucleotide encoding a protective antigen against protozoiasis development, a transformed plant or its progeny or clone comprising the transformed cell, a propagation material of the plant or its progeny or clone, a processed material or extract of the above cell, plant, or its progeny or clone, or propagation material, or a protective antigen against protozoiasis development isolated from the transformed plant cell or the transformed plant or its progeny or clone. |
| US08617573B2 |
Botulinum neurotoxin B receptors and use thereof
It is disclosed here that synaptotagmin I (syt I) and synaptotagmin II (syt II) are the cellular receptors for botulinum neurotoxin B (BoNT/B) that mediate the cellular entry and toxicity of BoNT/B. The BoNT/B binding domains of syt I and II are also disclosed. While syt I needs gangliosides for BoNT/B binding, syt II can bind to BoNT/B in the absence of gangliosides. Various nucleic acids and polypeptides that relate to the BoNT/B binding domain of syt I or II are disclosed. Further disclosed are methods of reducing BoNT/B toxicity, methods of identifying agents that can block the binding between BoNT/B and syt I or II, methods of identifying agents that can bind to the BoNT/B binding domain of syt I or II, methods of detecting BoNT/B or Clostridium botulinum and kits for use thereof. |
| US08617570B2 |
Method for treating premature ejaculation with a botulinum neurotoxin
Methods for prolongation of climax time in a patient in need thereof are presented, as are methods for treating premature ejaculation by local administration of a Clostridial neurotoxin, such a botulinum neurotoxin, to the patient, are provided. |
| US08617568B2 |
Pharmaceutical liquid composition of botulinum toxin with improved stability
Disclosed herein is a liquid pharmaceutical composition of botulinum toxin which is improved in stability. It comprises botulinum toxin, polysorbate 20, and methionine and optionally isoleucine. Employing, instead of the animal-derived protein albumin or gelatin, a combination of polysorbate 20 and methionine and optionally isoleucine as botulinum toxin stabilizers, the liquid pharmaceutical composition eliminates the risk of contaminating the body with serum-derived pathogens or microorganisms and can be administered safely to the body. Also, the composition is convenient for use as a direct injection for patients. Superior to conventional compositions employing either detergents or amino acids in terms of the storage stability of botulinum toxin at 25˜370C as well as at refrigerated temperatures, the liquid pharmaceutical composition of the present invention is very useful for storing botulinum toxin under an emergency condition such as an environment without maintaining low temperature. The liquid pharmaceutical composition can be readily prepared because it employs a detergent and an amino acid(s) without a lyophilization process. |
| US08617567B2 |
Fungus polyose composition with immunity enhancing effect and application thereof
The present invention relates to a compound fungus polyose with the effect of enhancing immunity. The compound is prepared with raw material as follows: Lentinus edodes 8˜100, Poria cocos 15˜100, Dictyophora indusiata 10˜200, Tremella fuciformis 15˜80, Paecilomyces hepiali mycelium 2˜50. The present invention also relates to the use of compound fungus polyose in preparing health dietary supplements for enhancing immunity. The compound fungus polyose of present invention is characterized in that it uses the edible (medicinal) fungus rich in activity polyose as the main raw material and matches various kinds of polyose components, enhances body's immunity in multiple ways, and has beneficial health effects on those who are sub-health. The health dietary supplements prepared with compound fungus polyose of present invention as the main effective component has an evident effect on enhancing immunity and a satisfactory effect on the health of those who are sub-health. |
| US08617563B2 |
Antichlamydial agents
An antichlamydial agent comprising an inhibitor of Chlamydial Protease-like Activity Factor (CPAF). The inhibitor of CPAF can comprise a CPAF inhibitory segment and can optionally include one or more additional residues or domains. Also provided are compositions comprising an inhibitor of CPAF, methods of identifying an inhibitor of CPAF, and methods of treating a Chlamydia infection in a subject comprising administering an inhibitor of CPAF or a composition comprising an inhibitor of CPAF to the subject. |
| US08617562B2 |
FOXM1 peptides and immunogenic compositions containing them
The present invention provides isolated peptides having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 34 or fragments thereof, which bind to HLA antigen and induce cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL). The present invention further provides peptides which include one, two, or several amino acid insertions, substitution or addition to the aforementioned peptides or fragments, but still have the cytotoxic T cell inducibility. Further provided are nucleic acids encoding any of these aforementioned peptides as well as pharmaceutical substances or compositions including any of the aforementioned peptides or nucleic acids. The peptides, nucleic acids, pharmaceutical substances or compositions of the present invention may be used for treating cancer or tumor. |
| US08617560B2 |
Peptides for vaccination against human CMV
The present invention relates to peptides or pretide derivatives of the 65kD lower matrix phosphoprotein of human cytomegalovirus. The peptides disclosed are useful for determining whether subjects have een exposed to human cytomegalovirus. Methods for using these peptides or derivatives thereof to determine the peptide-induced production of interferon-γ and/or TNF-α in CD8+ T cells isolated from subjects are also disclosed. |
| US08617556B2 |
Gram-positive bacteria specific binding compounds
The present invention provides improved binding compounds capable of specifically binding Gram-positive bacteria. Binding compounds are provided that are fully human, enabling therapeutic applications in human individuals. |
| US08617555B2 |
Pharmaceutical compositions comprising activated-potentiated antibodies to human insulin receptor and endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase
The present application provides a pharmaceutical composition for administration to a patient suffering from diabetes and other metabolic disorders, the composition comprises a) an activated-potentiated form of an antibody to human insulin receptor, and b) an activated-potentiated form of an antibody to endothelial NO-synthase. |
| US08617552B2 |
IL-17 antibodies
An IL-17 binding molecule, in particular an antibody to human IL-17, more preferably a human antibody to human IL-17 is provided, wherein the hypervariable regions of the heavy and light chains have amino acid sequences as defined, for use in the treatment of an IL-17 mediated disease or disorder, e.g. rheumatoid arthritis. |
| US08617548B2 |
Methods of preventing or treating anthrax using anti-anthrax antibodies
The present invention provides an antibody which binds to B. anthracis with toxin, formulations for administration of such antibodies intramuscularly, and methods of administering such antibodies prophylactically or therapeutically. |
| US08617544B2 |
Compositions and methods for controlling lipid metabolism
The present invention provides a neutraceutical formulation having unexpected optimizing effects on the release of various gastric hormones and which acts unexpectedly and synergistically to inhibit various metabolic reactions such as oxidation and glycation of lipoproteins, especially LDLs. An enhancement in the release of gastric hormones optimizes the release of various gastric juices, gastric enzymes, and endocrine secretion levels of hormones that have key roles in the metabolism, digestion, assimilation of caloric and non-caloric nutrients, the storage of body fats, and appetite satiety. The present composition has further effects as an antioxidant formulation and as an enhancer and stabilizer of the activity of other antioxidants. |
| US08617540B2 |
Combinational chemotherapy treatment
Disclosed is a composition comprising a therapeutically effective amount of (a) at least one compound from the group of 5-fluorouracil, 5-fluorodeoxyuridine, capecitabine or a prodrug of such compounds; and (b) 5-hydroxymethyl-2′-deoxyuridine, or a prodrug of such compound, as well as kits comprising such composition and methods of use thereof for treating neoplasia. |
| US08617537B2 |
Controlled activation of the reuterin-production machinery of lactobacillus
Methods for the controlled activation of the reuterin-production machinery of Lactobacillus reuteri by adding glycerol and other substances during the manufacture of cell-cultures and keeping the produced reuterin in the bacterial cell during preservation and storage. In particular this invention relates to the manufacture of large amounts of L. reuteri that are loaded with reuterin, and the use of such loaded bacteria for applications such as prevention and treatment of diseases, for food applications and the like. |
| US08617536B2 |
Prevotella histicola preparations and the treatment of autoimmune conditions
This document provides methods and materials related to Prevotella histicola preparations. For example, Prevotella histicola preparations in the form of an oral medicament or dietary supplement (e.g., a pill, tablet, capsule) are provided. In addition, methods and materials for using a Prevotella histicola preparation provided herein as an anti-inflammatory agent are provided. |
| US08617533B2 |
Multi-antigenic alphavirus replicon particles and methods
Viral replicon selected nucleic acid expression libraries are useful for analyzing multiple antigens associated with a parasite, pathogen or neoplasia or for preparing immunogenic compositions for generating immune responses specific for the parasite, pathogen or neoplasia. Alphavirus replicon particles representative of the nucleic acid expression library are preferred. The nucleic acid library can be a random library, or it can be prepared after a selection step, for example, by differential hybridization prior to cloning into the replicon vector. |
| US08617532B2 |
Therapeutic use of interferon-polymer conjugates
This invention relates to use protein-polymer conjugates described in the specification to treat various diseases, including disease is idiopaic myelofibrsis, polycythaemia vera, and essential thromobocythaemia. |
| US08617529B2 |
Use of organomodified siloxane block copolymers as care active ingredient for the care of human or animal body parts
The present invention relates to the use of organomodified siloxane block copolymers as care active ingredient for the care of human or animal body parts. |
| US08617525B2 |
Cosmetics having excellent usability and stability and a method for making the same
In the prior cosmetics, the cosmetic product provided with sufficient storage stability together with excellent usability can not be realized, and it has been an actual state that a cosmetic product having sense of non-tackiness etc. and excellent usability has poor storage stability. The present invention provides a cosmetic for providing a cosmetic product having more excellent usability and storage stability as a cosmetic, and a method for making the same.The cosmetic of the present invention is characterized by comprising an amino acid oil gelling agent and a polyamide resin, thereby a cosmetic product having excellent usability and sufficient storage stability in combination can be realized. |
| US08617522B2 |
Multimodal nanoparticles for non-invasive bio-imaging
Multimodal nanoparticles are nanoparticles containing contrast agents for PAT and one or more of luminescence imaging, x-ray imaging, and/or MRI. The multimodal nanoparticles can have a dielectric core comprising an oxide with a metal coating on the core. The particles can be metal speckled. The multimodal nanoparticles can be used for therapeutic purposes such as ablation of tumors or by neutron capture in addition to use as contrast agents for imaging. |
| US08617519B2 |
Injectable cross-linked hydrogels for biomaterial applications
An injectable hydrogel composition comprising: water; and poly(vinyl alcohol) chemically cross-linked with a second polymer to form a cross-linked resin, wherein the second polymer is selected from the group consisting of: a polyhydric alcohol compound, a polyvalent epoxy compound, a polyvalent amine compound, a dialdehyde compound, a diisocyanate compound, and mixtures thereof, wherein the cross-linked resin has a degree of cross-linking of from about 0.0001 mol/mL to about 0.002 mol/mL, and wherein the hydrogel is flowable when heated above its melting point. |
| US08617516B2 |
Universal anchor peptide for nanoparticles
The present invention provides a substantially non-lytic, non-cytotoxic anchor peptide that is capable of stably inserting into lipid membranes. In particular, the invention provides nanoparticles comprising stably inserted anchor peptides, which may be conjugated to a variety of different cargo complexes. |
| US08617515B2 |
Imaging of myelin basic protein
The present invention relates to methods for myelin basic protein detection comprises identifying a subject at risk of or diagnosed with a myelin-associated neuropathy, parenterally administering to the subject the agent, and determining myelination in the subject by detecting binding to myelin basic protein. Methods for the detection of myelin and a quantitative measurement of its local concentration in a sample using an agent with specific binding to myelin basic protein are also provided as is a kit containing the agent or its derivatives for use in detecting myelin basic protein. |
| US08617513B2 |
Mesostructured zeolitic materials and methods of making and using the same
One aspect of the present invention relates to mesostructured zeolites. The invention also relates to a method of preparing mesostructured zeolites, as well as using them as cracking catalysts for organic compounds and degradation catalysts for polymers. |
| US08617508B2 |
Carbon material for negative electrode of lithium secondary battery and method for producing the same
To provide a negative electrode carbon material capable of suppressing capacity degradation which will occur due to repetition of a charge/discharge cycle, storage under a charged state, float charging, or the like. An artificial graphite for a negative electrode of a lithium secondary battery having a c-axis crystallite size L (112) of from 2.0 to 4.2 nm as calculated from a (112) diffraction line obtained by X-ray wide-angle diffractometry and having a half-value width ΔνG of from 15 to 19 cm−1 for a peak appearing in a wavelength region of from 1580 cm−1±100 cm−1 in the Raman spectroscopy using an argon ion laser light having a wavelength of 5145 angstrom. |
| US08617503B2 |
Process for production of spheroidized boron nitride
Disclosed is a process for producing spheroidized boron nitride which enable the further improvement in the heat conductivity of a heat dissipative member. Specifically disclosed is a process for producing spheroidized boron nitride, which is characterized by using spheroidized graphite as a raw material and reacting the spheroidized graphite with a boron oxide and nitrogen at a high temperature ranging from 1600 to 2100° C. to produce the spheroidized boron nitride. The boron oxide to be used in the reaction is preferably boron oxide (B2O3), boric acid (H3BO3), or a substance capable of generating a boron oxide at a higher temperature. A gas to be used in the reaction is preferably nitrogen or ammonia. |
| US08617499B1 |
Minimization of steam requirements and enhancement of water-gas shift reaction with warm gas temperature CO2 removal
The disclosure utilizes a hydroxide sorbent for humidification and CO2 removal from a gaseous stream comprised of CO and CO2 prior to entry into a water-gas-shift reactor, in order to decrease CO2 concentration and increase H2O concentration and shift the water-gas shift reaction toward the forward reaction products CO2 and H2. The hydroxide sorbent may be utilized for absorption of CO2 exiting the water-gas shift reactor, producing an enriched H2 stream. The disclosure further provides for regeneration of the hydroxide sorbent at temperature approximating water-gas shift conditions, and for utilizing H2O product liberated as a result of the CO2 absorption. |
| US08617493B2 |
Corrosion control in and selenium removal from flue gas wet scrubber systems
A method and composition for the reduction of the emission of selenium into the environment from the burning of fossil fuels with the use of two chemistries, either individually or in combination with each other. The method uses polydithiocarbamic compounds, including polydithiocarbamic compounds derived from a polymer produced from acrylic-x and alkylamine in conjunction with a scrubber process to capture selenium and reduce its emission in aqueous phase blowdown. The method and composition also helps reduce corrosion in the scrubber process. |
| US08617488B2 |
Microfluidic mixing and reaction systems for high efficiency screening
Microfluidic devices are described that include a rigid base layer, and an elastomeric layer on the base layer. The elastomeric layer may include at least part of a fluid channel for transporting a liquid reagent, and a vent channel that accepts gas diffusing through the elastomeric layer from the flow channel and vents it out of the elastomeric layer. The devices may also include a mixing chamber fluidly connected to the fluid channel, and a control channel overlapping with a deflectable membrane that defines a portion of the flow channel, where the control channel may be operable to change a rate at which the liquid reagent flows through the fluid channel. The devices may further include a rigid plastic layer on the elastomeric layer. |
| US08617485B2 |
Sensor strip device for measuring protein in the blood
A sensor strip apparatus includes: a top plate having an entrance opening downward and a joint formed downward; a pad section including a support having a window opening downward, a reaction pad attached to the window of the support and reacting with a specimen, first and second hemolysis inhibition pads attached to the reaction pad to filter hemocytes from the specimen, a specimen pad attached to the first and second hemolysis inhibition pads to diffuse the specimen crosswise, and an adhesive film attached to the support around the first and second hemolysis inhibition pads to increase adhesion strength of the specimen pad; and a bottom plate having a second joint forcibly coupled with to the joint of the top plate, and a window configured to indentify the reaction pad through the window of the support. |
| US08617484B1 |
Iodine-dispensing antifoulant implemented with dispensing shutter
Sensors, such as optical sensors and other sensors used in an aqueous environment are protected from biological contamination by applying a biocide behind a shutter. The shutter is capable of covering a subject portion of the sensor or surrounding mounting surface adjacent the sensor in at least a semi-sealing manner. A well or reservoir forms a chamber in the shutter that is capable of holding a biocide having a limited water solubility and a low environmental toxicity in the aqueous environment, for example, anhydrous iodine crystals. The reservoir is in communication with the portion of the sensor while positioned against the portion of the sensor or surrounding mounting surface adjacent the sensor. |
| US08617480B2 |
Concentrated acid treatment unit, concentrated acid treatment method, phase-separation system plant for botanical resource, and conversion method
A concentrated acid treatment unit is composed of a reaction section and an agitation extraction section. A phenol sorped raw material obtained by defatting botanical resource-derived raw material by solvent to subject sorption phenols to sorption is introduced, thus obtaining mixed solution of phenol solution including a lignophenol derivative and concentrated acid solution including a cellulose hydrolysate. The reaction section agitates and mixes the phenol sorped raw material and concentrated acid to cause cellulose to be swollen to thereby convert lignin to lignophenol. A part of the cellulose is subjected to hydrolysis. The agitation extraction section receives the treated liquid sent from the reaction section and adds phenols for extraction thereto to cause lignophenol dispersed in the concentrated acid solution to be dissolved and extracted in phenols for extraction. |
| US08617474B2 |
Systems utilizing non-zeolitic metal-containing molecular sieves having the CHA crystal structure
Systems for treating exhaust gas incorporating catalysts comprising metal-loaded non-zeolitic molecular sieves having the CHA crystal structure, including Cu-SAPO-34, and methods for preparing such catalysts are disclosed. The catalysts can be used to remove nitrogen oxides from a gaseous medium across a broad temperature range and exhibit hydrothermal stability at high reaction temperatures. |
| US08617473B2 |
Method and apparatus for reducing a nitrogen oxide
This invention relates to an apparatus for reducing a nitrogen oxide. In particular, it relates to the use of a gas analyzer to obtain information related to the compositional content of a multi-component gas mixture that contains a nitrogen oxide for the purpose of assisting in the control of the reduction. In particular, the apparatus provides control of the reaction of reduction, and, more particularly, control of the injection of a reducing agent into the gas mixture containing the nitrogen oxide. The apparatus enables the calculation of the amount of reducing agent to be injected in relation to information about the compositional content of the gas mixture, and a gas analyzer containing an array of chemo/electro-active materials may be used in conjunction therewith. |
| US08617470B2 |
System for label-free quantitative detection of biomolecules
Embodiments of apparatuses, systems, and methods for label-free detection of biomolecules. In one embodiment, a system includes a light source configured to emit broadband Gaussian light. The system may also include an optical fiber coupled to the light source. Additionally, the system may include an optical sensor. The optical sensor may include a fiber-interface surface configured to be coupled to the optical fiber and to receive broadband Gaussian light from the optical fiber. The optical sensor may also include a sensor body coupled to the fiber-interface surface, the sensor body having a refractive index different from a refractive index of the optical fiber, such that at least a portion of light received by the fiber-interface surface is reflected back to the optical fiber during use; and a binder-interface surface coupled to the sensor body, the binder-interface surface configurable to receive a chemical binder layer. Additional embodiments include coherence domain multiplexing and time division multiplexing. |
| US08617457B2 |
Apparatus and method for condensing metal vapor
An apparatus for condensing metal vapors has at least one inlet conduit that is cooled to cause a portion of the metal vapor to condense to liquid. The apparatus also has a holding tank that is connected to the inlet conduit that collects condensed liquid metal. The apparatus also has at least one outlet conduit connected to the holding tank that is cooled to cause a portion of the remaining metal vapor to condense to solid metal. The apparatus also has at least one heater that heats the at least one outlet conduit to cause the solid metal to melt to liquid metal and subsequently flow in to the holding tank. The apparatus also has at least one sealing mechanism located at a distal end of the at least one outlet conduit for preventing metal vapor and carrier gas from exiting the outlet conduit during heating of the outlet conduit. |
| US08617454B2 |
Manufacture of an acoustic silencer
A method for manufacturing a resonator is disclosed in which a sleeve insert is placed into a fixture within a blow molding apparatus. The sleeve insert has a wall with a first plurality of apertures in the wall at a first axial distance and a second plurality of apertures in the wall at a second axial distance. A parison is slid over the sleeve insert; the mold is clamped over the parison causing the parison to press into the sleeve insert at three locations: near the ends of the sleeve insert and at a location between the pluralities of apertures; and air is blown into the sleeve insert, via a blow pin, to expand the parison into the walls of the mold to form cavities proximate the first and second pluralities of aperatures. After cooling, the mold opens to release the newly formed resonator. |
| US08617451B2 |
Method of producing gypsum building boards
A method of producing gypsum building board, in which there is added, to an aqueous gypsum slurry containing a water swellable clay, a basic water-soluble polymer having preferential affinity for clay. The slurry is allowed to set so as to form a board. The basic water-soluble polymer may be, for example, a polyvinyl alcohol or a polymer consisting essentially of carbon, nitrogen and hydrogen and having amine groups (which may be primary, secondary, tertiary or quaternary) in the polymer backbone and/or in side chains thereof. |
| US08617449B2 |
Method of making an absorbent structure having three-dimensional topography
A method of making an absorbent structure having a three-dimensional topography includes placing at least a portion of the absorbent structure between opposed mold surfaces. At least one of the mold surfaces has a three-dimensional topography. The three-dimensional topography of the mold surface is imparted onto the absorbent structure so that the absorbent structure has a three-dimensional topography corresponding to the three-dimensional topography of the mold surface. |
| US08617448B2 |
Methods of making an endovascular prosthesis using a deformable matrix
A method of making an endovascular prosthesis comprises the steps of applying a first layer of polymer to a portion of a deformable matrix, contacting a stent with the polymer to deform the matrix, applying a second layer of polymer over at least a portion of the stent and first layer, solidifying the layers of polymer to form the endovascular prosthesis, and removing the matrix. |
| US08617441B2 |
Methods for making an encapsulated stent
A method for making an encapsulated stent includes providing a first seamless unsintered ePTFE tube, providing a second seamless unsintered ePTFE tube, positioning a balloon-expandable stent between the first and second ePTFE tubes to form an assembly, disposing an ePTFE interlayer member between the first and second ePTFE tubes, and joining the first ePTFE tube to the second ePTFE tube through openings in a wall of the stent by applying first pressure, and then heat, to the assembly. |
| US08617435B2 |
Photochromic composite material
Sol-gel process for producing a photochromic composite material includes successive stages of hydrolysis, condensation, and drying, in which an alkoxysilane is selected as a precursor, and a ruthenium complex with a nitrosyl ligand is selected as a photochromic complex, and, in combination, the sol-gel process is implemented starting from the selected precursor and photochromic complex, with successive stages of hydrolysis, arrangement in a container of a selected shape, condensation, curing and aging, whereby this latter stage includes a final drying cycle, and for, the curing and aging stages, the pH, temperature and duration are selected so that in the produced xerogel, whose shape is determined by that of the container, the photochromic ruthenium complex with a nitrosyl ligand, in the crystalline state and in the form of nanoparticles, is inserted into the nanopores of the silica matrix, distributed in an at least substantially homogeneous way. |
| US08617433B2 |
Conductive sintered oxide, thermistor element including the same, and temperature sensor including the same
A conductive sintered oxide including: a first crystal phase represented by RE14Al2O9 and a second crystal phase having a perovskite structure represented by (RE21-cSLc)(AlxM1y)O3. RE1 is a first element group consisting of Yb and/or Lu and at least one element selected from Group IIIA elements excluding Yb, Lu and La. RE2 is a second element group consisting of at least one element selected from Group IIIA elements excluding La and including at least one of the elements constituting the first element group RE1. SL is an element group consisting of at least one of Sr, Ca and Mg and which includes Sr as a main element, and M1 is an element group consisting of at least one element selected from Groups IVA, VA, VIA, VIIA and VIII excluding Cr. The coefficient c is in the range of 0.18 |
| US08617432B2 |
Electrically conductive oxide sintered compact, thermistor element employing the same, and temperature sensor employing the same
A sintered electroconductive oxide forming a thermistor element has a first crystal phase having a composition represented by RE14Al2O9 and a second crystal phase having a perovskite structure represented by (RE21-aSLa)MO3. The factor a of the second crystal phase is: 0.18 |
| US08617430B2 |
Amorphous and partially amorphous nanoscale ion storage materials
Amorphous or partially amorphous nanoscale ion storage materials are provided. For example, lithium transition metal phosphate storage compounds are nanoscale and amorphous or partially amorphous in an as-prepared state, or become amorphous or partially amorphous upon electrochemical intercalation or de-intercalation by lithium. These nanoscale ion storage materials are useful for producing devices such as high energy and high power storage batteries. |
| US08617428B2 |
Thick film resistive heater compositions comprising Ag and RuO2, and methods of making same
Thick film resistor paste compositions, and methods for making the thick film compositions are disclosed. The compositions include a resistor composition dispersed in an organic vehicle. The resistor composition has 3 to 60% by weight RuO2 conductive material, 5 to 75% by weight Ag conductive material, 15 to 60% by weight glass frit and optionally up to 10% by weight copper oxide or precursor thereof, and up to 20% by weight bismuth oxide or precursor thereof.The resistor composition when printed to a dry thickness and fired at a temperature between 750° C. and 950° C. achieves a sheet resistivity between 10 and 10,000 milliohms/square and a hot temperature coefficient of resistivity of 1000 ppm/C or higher. The fired resistor composition may achieve a resistance thickness ratio (Rtr) value between 0.75 and 1.50. |
| US08617426B2 |
Oxocarbon-, pseudooxocarbon- and radialene compounds and their use
The present invention relates to oxocarbon-, pseudooxocarbon- and radialene compounds as well as to their use as doping agent for doping an organic semiconductive matrix material, as blocker material, as charge injection layer, as electrode material as well as organic semiconductor, as well as electronic components and organic semiconductive materials using them. |
| US08617422B2 |
Use of codoping to modify the scintillation properties of inorganic scintillators doped with trivalent activators
Crystals with improved scintillation and optical properties are achieved by codoping with a trivalent dopant and a divalent and/or a monovalent dopant. Embodiments include codoping LSO, YSO, GSO crystals and LYSO, LGSO, and LYGSO crystals. Embodiments also include codoped crystals with a controlled monovalent or divalent:trivalent dopant ratio of from about 1:1 for increased light yield to about 4:1 for faster decay time. |
| US08617421B2 |
Lanthanide metal-organic frameworks and uses thereof
Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are crystalline porous materials that include metal ions linked together into periodic structures via organic ligands. MOFs that contain lanthanide ions are a new class of visible and near-IR luminescent materials, suitable for a broad range of applications. For example, the MOF framework afforded by 2,5-dimethoxy-1,4-phenylene)di-2,1-ethenediyl]bis-carboxylate is associated with unusually long luminescence lifetimes. Thus, a complex of this ligand with a lanthanide provides a sharp emission profile, coupled with a comparatively long signal lifetime, for an unusually high luminescence. More generally, lanthanide-MOF systems exhibit several advantages that are ideal for barcoded materials, due to the photophysical attributes of lanthanide cations and the well-defined organization of the MOF structure. |
| US08617415B2 |
Heat transfer fluids and corrosion inhibitor formulations for use thereof
Disclosed herein is a heat transfer fluid comprises: a freezing point-depressant; an aliphatic carboxylic acid, a salt thereof, or a combination of the foregoing; an inorganic phosphate; a magnesium compound; deionized water; and a component selected from the group consisting of azole compounds, copper alloy corrosion inhibitors, phosphonocarboxylates, phosphinocarboxylates, and combinations of two or more of the foregoing components. Also described is a heat transfer system comprising the heat transfer fluid. |
| US08617411B2 |
Methods and apparatus for atomic layer etching
Substrate processing systems and methods for etching an atomic layer are disclosed. The methods and systems are configured to introducing a first gas into the chamber, the gas being an etchant gas suitable for etching the layer and allowing the first gas to be present in the chamber for a period of time sufficient to cause adsorption of at least some of the first gas into the layer. The first gas is substantially replaced in the chamber with an inert gas, and metastables are then generated from the inert gas to etch the layer with the metastables while substantially preventing the plasma charged species from etching the layer. |
| US08617394B2 |
Asymmetric nanotube containing membranes
This invention relates to heterogenous pore polymer nanotube membranes useful in filtration, such as reverse osmosis desalination, nanofiltration, ultrafiltration and gas separation. |
| US08617387B2 |
Catalytic processes and systems for base oil production from light feedstock
Processes and catalyst systems are provided for dewaxing a light hydrocarbon feedstock to form a lubricant base oil. A layered catalyst system of the present invention may comprise a first hydroisomerization dewaxing catalyst disposed upstream from a second hydroisomerization dewaxing catalyst. Each of the first and second hydroisomerization dewaxing catalysts may be selective for the isomerization of n-paraffins. The first hydroisomerization catalyst may have a higher level of selectivity for the isomerization of n-paraffins than the second hydroisomerization dewaxing catalyst. |
| US08617386B2 |
Process for using supported molybdenum catalyst for slurry hydrocracking
A process is disclosed for converting heavy hydrocarbon feed into lighter hydrocarbon products. The heavy hydrocarbon feed is slurried with a catalyst comprising molybdenum supported on a base, such as boehmite or pseudo-boehmite alumina. Iron oxide may also be in the base. The base is preferably bauxite. The heavy hydrocarbon slurry is hydrocracked in the presence of the catalyst to produce lighter hydrocarbons. |
| US08617384B2 |
Integrated catalytic cracking gasoline and light cycle oil hydroprocessing to maximize p-xylene production
A process for maximizing p-xylene production begins by producing a naphtha fraction and a light cycle oil fraction from a fluid catalytic cracking zone. The gasoline and light cycle oil fractions are combined and hydrotreated to produce a hydrotreated product. Fractionation of the hydrotreated product in a fractionation zone makes a light ends cut, a naphtha cut, a hydrocracker feed and an unconverted oil fraction. The hydrocracker feed is sent to a hydrocracking zone to make a hydrocracker product, which is then recycled back to the fractionation zone, feeding the hydrocracker product above an outlet for the hydrocracker feed, but below an outlet for the naphtha cut. The naphtha cut goes to a dehydrogenation zone where hydrogen is removed to make aromatics from naphthenes to make a dehydrogenated naphtha. The dehydrogenated naphtha is fed to an aromatics recovery unit to recover p-xylene and other aromatics. |
| US08617383B2 |
Integrated hydrocracking and dewaxing of hydrocarbons
An integrated process for producing naphtha fuel, diesel fuel and/or lubricant base oils from feedstocks under sour conditions is provided. The ability to process feedstocks under higher sulfur and/or nitrogen conditions allows for reduced cost processing and increases the flexibility in selecting a suitable feedstock. The sour feed can be delivered to a catalytic dewaxing step without any separation of sulfur and nitrogen contaminants, or with only a high pressure separation so that the dewaxing still occurs under sour conditions. Various combinations of hydrotreating, catalytic dewaxing, hydrocracking, and hydrofinishing can be used to produce fuel products and lubricant base oil products. |
| US08617381B2 |
System and apparatus for determining temperatures in a fluid analyte system
A test sensor includes a body, a first conductive trace, a second conductive trace, and a third conductive trace. The body includes a first region that has a fluid-receiving area, a second region separate from the first region, and a first temperature sensing interface disposed at or adjacent to the fluid-receiving area. The fluid-receiving area receives a sample. The first trace is disposed on the body, and at least a portion of the first trace is disposed in the first region. The second and third traces are disposed on the body. The third trace extends from the first to the second regions. The third trace is connected to the first trace at the first temperature sensing interface. The third trace includes a different material than the first trace. A first thermocouple is formed at the first temperature sensing interface. The thermocouple provides temperature data to determine an analyte concentration. |
| US08617379B2 |
Electropolishing solution containing a sulfate salt and methods of use thereof
A substantially anhydrous electropolishing electrolyte solution that includes at least one sulfate salt. The substantially anhydrous electropolishing electrolyte solutions described herein do not use water as a solvent; instead, such electropolishing electrolyte solutions use anhydrous alcohols and/or glycols as a solvent. For example, an electropolishing electrolyte solution, as described herein, may include an alcohol, at least one mineral acid, and at least one sulfate salt. The at least one sulfate salt can act as a source of sulfate ions to replenish sulfate ions consumed in the electropolishing process. Anhydrous sulfate salts can also act as water scavengers by reacting with water to form sulfate salt hydrates. Methods of electropolishing metal articles using such electropolishing electrolyte solutions are disclosed herein as well. |
| US08617376B2 |
Process for the electrochemical preparation of gamma-hydroxycarboxylic esters and gamma-lactones
γ-Hydroxycarboxylic esters and γ-lactones which are suitable as flavors can be prepared by electrochemical reductive cross-coupling of α,β-unsaturated esters with carbonyl compounds in an undivided electrolysis cell having a cathode composed of lead, lead alloys, cadmium, cadmium alloys, mercury, steel, glassy carbon or boron-doped diamonds and a basic aqueous electrolyte comprising an electrolyte salt which suppresses the cathodic formation of hydrogen. |
| US08617375B2 |
Method for reducing carbon dioxide
The method for reducing carbon dioxide of the present invention includes a step (a) and a step (b) as follows. A step (a) of preparing an electrochemical cell. The electrochemical cell comprises a working electrode (21), a counter electrode (23) and a vessel (28). The vessel (28) stores an electrolytic solution (27). The working electrode (21) contains boron carbide. The electrolytic solution (27) contains carbon dioxide. The working electrode (21) and the counter electrode (23) are in contact with the electrolytic solution (27). A step (b) of applying a negative voltage and a positive voltage to the working electrode and the counter electrode, respectively, to reduce the carbon dioxide. |
| US08617373B2 |
Cathodic electrodeposition paint containing metal-organic compound
A cathodic electrodeposition coating material comprising (A) at least one water-dispersible organic binder containing cationic groups, where the cathodic electrodeposition coating material has been admixed with 0.005%-0.5% by weight, based on the solids content of the cathodic electrodeposition coating material, of (B) an organic, tetravalent titanium, zirconium or hafnium complex having one or more oxygen-containing ligands. |
| US08617368B2 |
Analysis implement with opening in insulation film
The present invention relates to an analytical tool (X) which includes a substrate (1), a flow path for moving a sample along the substrate (1), a reagent portion (14) provided in the flow path, and an insulating film (13) covering the substrate (1) and including an opening (15a) for defining a region for forming the reagent portion (14). The insulating film (13) further includes at least one additional opening (15b) positioned in a longitudinal direction (N1) relative to the opening (15a). For instance, the flow path is configured to move the sample by capillary force. |
| US08617365B2 |
Electrochemical assay device and related methods
An electrochemical test device is provided having a base layer with a first electrode thereon and a top layer with a second electrode thereon. The two electrodes are separated by a spacer layer having an opening therein, such that a sample-receiving space is defined with one electrode on the top surface, the other electrodes on the bottom surface and side walls formed from edges of the opening in the spacer. Reagents for performing the electrochemical reaction are deposited on one of the electrodes and on the side walls of the sample-receiving space. |
| US08617363B2 |
Magnetron sputtering apparatus
A magnetron sputtering apparatus where a target is disposed to face a substrate installed in a vacuum chamber and magnets are disposed on a rear surface of the target, including a power supply unit configured to apply a voltage to the target; and a magnet array body including a magnet group arranged on a base body provided at the rear surface of the target. In the magnet array body, rod-shaped magnets each having different polarities at opposite ends thereof are disposed in a mesh shape on a surface of the base body facing the target; the mesh has a 2n polygonal shape (n being an integer greater than or equal to 2); permeable core members are disposed at intersection points of the mesh surrounded by the ends of the rod-shaped magnets; and end portions of the rod-shaped magnets which surround each of the core members have a same polarity. |
| US08617359B2 |
Method for distilling a starting material and installation for carrying out said method
A method for distilling a starting material that includes a liquid Fd to be distilled, uses a gas-tight container system that is resistant to excess and/or negative pressure. The container system includes a condenser for condensing the liquid Fd, which has turned to vapor and whose temperature can be adjusted, to give the condensation product, and a vapor chamber connecting the evaporator and the condenser. The pressure and temperature in the vapor chamber are monitored and controlled so that distillation is always carried out in a range close to the saturation vapor pressure of the liquid Fd to be distilled. If the pressure is too high, it is reduced so that especially foreign gas is removed. An installation includes a container for distillation according to method. |
| US08617355B2 |
Method and apparatus for mixing a lignocellulosic material with enzymes
A method to treat a lignocellulosic material including: performing a steam explosion reaction on the lignocellulosic material and discharging a slurry from the; adding an alkali material to the slurry in a first conveyor; transferring the slurry with the alkali material from the first conveyor to a second conveyor; adding an enzyme solution to the slurry while in, entering or at the discharge of the second conveyor; transferring the slurry with the enzyme solution from the second conveyor slurry to a mixer; mixing the slurry in the mixer, wherein a second portion of the enzyme solution is added to the slurry during the mixing, and transferring the slurry with the enzyme solution from the mixer to a first reactor vessel wherein the slurry in the first reactor vessel undergoing enzymatic hydrolysis such that the viscosity of the slurry is reduced in the first reactor vessel. |
| US08617349B2 |
Showerhead assembly for plasma processing chamber
A showerhead for a plasma process apparatus for processing substrates, comprising a showerhead body comprising a top plate and a bottom plate defining a cavity in between; a gas inlet formed in the top plate; a perforated plate positioned between the top plate and the bottom plate and dissecting the cavity into an upper gas compartment and a lower gas compartment; and, wherein the bottom plate comprises a plurality of elongated diffusion slots on its lower surface and a plurality of diffusion holes on its upper surface, each of the diffusion holes making fluid connection from the lower gas compartment to more than one of the diffusion slots. |
| US08617343B2 |
Manufacturing method of flat-panel display device and bonding press apparatus therefor
An embodiment of manufacturing method of a flat-panel display device having a display panel and a transparent protector sheet; comprises: applying of adhesive resin onto the transparent protector sheet or the display panel to form dot patterns of applied adhesive resin; seizing the protector sheet and the display panel on upper and lower chucking parts; colliding of undermost tip of the applied resin onto the panel or the protector sheet at an approaching rate no more than a predetermined rate, preferably in a range of 0.01-0.5 mm/sec; and squeezing of the layer by moving the upper or lower chucking part at a rate no less than three times of the approaching rate at a time of the colliding, preferably in a range of 1-10 mm/sec. |
| US08617342B1 |
Air clamp
A portable air clamp for use during lamination of substrates is provided. The clamp includes a top clamp plate, a bottom clamp plate and at least one flexible, expandable tube within a housing of the clamp. The top clamp plate is adjacent to a top housing and the bottom clamp plate is adjacent to a bottom housing. An expandable tube or bladder may be disposed in the top housing or the bottom housing. The clamp may also include alignment devices and mechanisms for ensuring proper alignment of the substrates during the laminating procedure. The clamp is adapted to provide uniform pressure along the surfaces of the substrates to be laminated. |
| US08617338B2 |
Method and manufacturing line for manufacturing wind turbine blades
A method and a manufacturing line for manufacturing wind turbine blades having a composite shell structure comprising a matrix material and a fiber reinforcement material by use of a resin transfer moulding process. The method comprises a manufacturing line, where wind turbine blades are formed in a number of moulds. Each number of moulds comprising at least a first mould part comprising a first mould cavity. The manufacturing line further comprises a gantry means movable along the manufacturing line. The method comprises the following steps: a) arranging fiber reinforcement material in the first mould cavity of a first mould using the gantry means, b) moving the gantry means along the manufacturing line to a second mould, c) supplying curable matrix material into the first mould cavity of the first mould, while substantially simultaneously arranging fiber reinforcement material in the first mould cavity of a second mould using the gantry means. The manufacturing line comprises a plurality of moulds for forming wind turbine blades. Each of the number of moulds comprising at least a first mould part comprising a first mould cavity. |
| US08617336B2 |
Method for molding continuous fiber prepreg part
This invention provides a method for molding a continuous fiber prepreg part whereby a continuous fiber prepreg part comprising thermoplastic prepreg tape can be molded in a shape that allows the exhibition of desired physical properties without the sacrifice of productivity.Prepreg tape 11 is wound around a plurality of rods 21 so as to form a rolled continuous fiber prepreg part 12, slack is removed from the prepreg tape 11 by shifting the plurality of rods 21 in opposite directions so as to generate tension in the continuous fiber prepreg part 12, the continuous fiber prepreg part 12 is pressed with a press jig 41 so as to mold the prepreg part into the final shape, and the continuous fiber prepreg part 12 is cured by heating and cooling after heating. |
| US08617334B2 |
Method and apparatus for making a compartmentalized tire sealant strip
A method for making a compartmentalized sealant strip and barrier assembly 10 has the steps of co-extruding a barrier strip 9 of non-sealant elastomeric material with a plurality of projecting linear extending walls 9c and a sealant strip 11 wherein the sealant strip 11 is formed on one side of the barrier strip 9 filling the space between the plurality of projecting walls 9c to form a plurality of linearly extending rows of sealant 11 across the transverse width of the co-extrusion to form the compartmentalized sealant strip and barrier assembly 10. |
| US08617327B1 |
Method for controlling a high performance electrically controlled solution solid propellant
The present invention is an electrically controlled propellant comprising a binder, an oxidizer, and a cross-linking agent. The boric acid (the cross-linking agent) has been found to function as a cross-linking agent for the high molecular binder used to make the propellant, thereby improving the composition's ability to withstand combustion without melting. The present invention also may include 5-aminotetrazole (5-ATZ) as a stability-enhancing additive. The binder of the present invention may include polyvinylalcohol (PVA) and/or the co-polymer of polyvinylalcohol/polyvinylamine nitrate (PVA/PVAN). |
| US08617324B2 |
Method for producing high-strength hot-dip galvannealed steel sheet
Exemplary embodiments of the present invention can provide a method for producing hot dip galvannealed steel sheet which exhibits high strength, high ductility, and a significant degree of alloying. Such exemplary method can be applied to, e.g., a pickled hot rolled steel sheet or an annealed and pickled cold rolled steel sheet containing between about 0.02% and about 0.2% C and between about 0.15% and about 2.5% Mn, and may include one or more procedures for rinsing the sheet, preplating the sheet with Ni, rapidly heating the sheet in a nonoxidizing atmosphere to a sheet temperature of about 430° C. to 500° C., then hot dip plating the sheet in a galvanizing bath containing between about 0.05% and about 0.2% Al, and then immediately heating the sheet rapidly for an alloying treatment. Such exemplary method can provide an improved alloying speed, improved plating appearance and better plating adhesion. |
| US08617323B2 |
Process for protecting the surface of a substrate of intermetallic alloy with a titanium aluminide base against corrosion
The method according to the invention comprises the following operations: a) prepare a substrated formed of the said intermetallic alloy; b) deposit a coating of gold on the surface to be protected of the substrate; and c) subject the substrate thus equipped with the gold coating to annealing in controlled conditions in order to bring about limited diffusion of the gold into the surface to be protected. The invention is applicable in particular to parts of gas turbines, e.g. parts of aircraft engines. |
| US08617317B1 |
All-purpose cleaners with natural, non-volatile solvent
Renewable, non-volatile cleaning compositions incorporating ethyl ester solvents are disclosed. Preferred compositions employ non-volatile C8-16 ethyl ester solvents. All-purpose cleaning compositions incorporating the non-volatile C8-16 ethyl ester solvents, further include an alkyl polyglycoside surfactant, an alcohol ethoxylate surfactant, and water. Preferably the compositions are free of anionic, cationic and amphoteric surfactants and/or co-solvents. The invention also discloses methods employing the non-volatile solvent all-purpose cleaning compositions. |
| US08617313B2 |
Line scan sequential lateral solidification of thin films
A system for preparing a semiconductor film, the system including: a laser source; optics to form a line beam, a stage to support a sample capable of translation; memory for storing a set of instructions, the instructions including irradiating a first region of the film with a first laser pulse to form a first molten zone, said first molten zone having a maximum width (Wmax) and a minimum width (Wmin), wherein the first molten zone crystallizes to form laterally grown crystals; laterally moving the film in the direction of lateral growth a distance greater than about one-half Wmax and less than Wmin; and irradiating a second region of the film with a second laser pulse to form a second molten zone, wherein the second molten zone crystallizes to form laterally grown crystals that are elongations of the crystals in the first region, wherein laser optics provide Wmax less than 2×Wmin. |
| US08617312B2 |
Systems and methods for forming layers that contain niobium and/or tantalum
A method of forming (and system for forming) layers, such as calcium, barium, strontium, and/or magnesium, tantalates and/or niobates, and optionally titanates, on a substrate by employing a vapor deposition method, particularly a multi-cycle atomic layer deposition process. |
| US08617310B1 |
Method and system for perceiving a boundary between a first region and a second region of a superabrasive volume
Methods of evaluating a superabrasive volume or a superabrasive compact are disclosed. One method may comprise exposing a superabrasive volume to beta particles and detecting a quantity of scattered beta particles. Further, a boundary may be perceived between a first region and a second region of the superabrasive volume in response to detecting the quantity of scattered beta particles. In another embodiment, a boundary between a catalyst-containing region and a catalyst-diminished region of a polycrystalline diamond volume may be perceived. In a further embodiment, a boundary may be perceived between a catalyst-containing region and a catalyst-diminished region of a polycrystalline diamond compact. Additionally, a depth to which a catalyst-diminished region extends within a polycrystalline diamond volume of a polycrystalline diamond compact may be measured in response to detecting a quantity of scattered beta particles. A system configured to evaluate a superabrasive volume is disclosed. |
| US08617309B1 |
Cement compositions including resilient graphitic carbon fraction
A method for improving the thermal characteristics of cement compositions is provided in which fine resilient graphitic carbon particles (“RGC”) are substituted for a portion of the fine aggregate (typically sand) in the cement formulation. For the purposes of the present disclosure, “fine” is intended to describe particulates having a mesh size of less than about 8 mesh, or a particle size of less than about 2.38 mm, or, more preferably when referring to RGC, a mesh size of less than about 16 mesh and a particle size of less than about 1.19 mm. “Resilient” is intended to describe graphitic carbon particles that exhibit a rebound of at least about 20% after compression to 10,000 psi. |
| US08617306B2 |
Silica-alumina mixed oxide compositions
The present invention relates to hetero-coagulated silica-alumina mixed oxide compositions that have a sharp refractive index and narrow refractive index dispersion between about 1.46 and 1.60. |
| US08617299B2 |
Fuel vapor processing canister
A canister includes a first fuel vapor adsorption device and a second fuel vapor adsorption device. The second fuel vapor adsorption device can adsorb a part of fuel vapor that still remains in a gas after desorption by the first fuel vapor adsorption device. The second fuel vapor adsorption device includes a first passage containing a fuel vapor adsorption material and a second passage containing no fuel vapor adsorption material. The first passage and the second passage allow the gas to flow therethrough. A gas introduction device allows the fuel vapor to flow from the second passage into the first passage. |
| US08617293B2 |
Membranes suitable for gas separation, and related articles and processes
A porous membrane structure is disclosed, which includes a porous substrate, a mesoporous, aluminum oxide layer disposed on the substrate; and a relatively thin, continuous, microporous barrier layer disposed on the mesoporous aluminum oxide layer, also formed from aluminum oxide. The membrane is capable of improving hydrogen selectivity within a gas stream, e.g., a synthesis gas composition. Membrane supports containing these structures are also described, as well as gas separation modules, and related processes. Power plants which incorporate the gas separation modules are also disclosed herein. |
| US08617292B2 |
Method of obtaining carbon dioxide from carbon dioxide-containing gas mixture
Disclosed are methods of obtaining carbon dioxide from a CO2-containing gas mixture. The methods combine the benefits of gas membrane separation with cryogenic temperatures. |
| US08617291B2 |
Method of making a gas separation molecular sieve membrane
A method of preparing a supported gas separation membrane, comprising: preparing crystalline seeds from a synthesis mixture comprising an aluminum source, a phosphorous source, a silicon source, at least one organic templating agent and water; applying the seeds to a porous support to produce a seeded porous support; contacting the seeded porous support with a synthesis gel under hydrothermal synthesis conditions to produce a coated porous support; and calcining the coated porous support is described. A supported gas separation membrane made by this method is also described. |
| US08617288B2 |
Sintered material for valve guides and production method therefor
A sintered material for valve guides consists of, by mass %, 0.01 to 0.3% of P, 1.3 to 3% of C, 1 to 4% of Cu, and the balance of Fe and inevitable impurities. The sintered material exhibits a metallic structure made of pores and a matrix. The matrix is a mixed structure of a pearlite phase, a ferrite phase, an iron-phosphorus-carbon compound phase, and a copper phase, and a part of the pores including graphite that is dispersed therein. The iron-phosphorus-carbon compound phase is dispersed at 3 to 25% by area ratio, and the copper phase is dispersed at 0.5 to 3.5% by area ratio, with respect to a cross section of the metallic structure, respectively. |
| US08617286B2 |
Method for increasing crop yield
The method for increasing yield of crop plants uses foliar application to the plants during the plant growth stage of a granular fertilizer consisting essentially of urea, ammonium sulfate and a fertilizer stabilizing agent. The stabilizing agent regulates and slows down decomposition nitrogen in urea and/or ammonium sulfate to maximize use thereof. The granular fertilizer has a urea/ammonium sulfate weight ratio of about 4/1 and contains at least 40% nitrogen and at least 4% sulfur. The relatively high N—S fertilizer is applied at relatively high rates of about 100 to 150 pounds per acre to ensure that the fertilizer nutrients are always available to the plants at several stages of growth. |
| US08617283B2 |
Use of a solid mineral composition for increasing the fertility of a crop soil or that of a prairie soil
A solid mineral composition including the following formula (I): Calcium carbonate from 4.58% to 77.8%, Dolomite from 3.85% to 69.29%, Rock salt from 5.7% to 12.4%, Lignosulphate from 4.25% to 8.49%, Potassium sulphate from 0.37% to 2.44%, Magnesium oxide from 0.01% to 0.07%, and Elemental sulphur from 0.009% to 0.066%, the above percentages consisting of the weight percentages of each of the compounds, relative to the total weight of the the mineral composition dry matter, for increasing the fertility of a soil by causing an increase in at least one enzymatic activity contained in the soil, selected from (i) phosphatase, (ii) β-xylosidase, (iii) α-glucosidase and (iv) β-glucosidase. |
| US08617281B2 |
Methods and systems for feedstock production from sewage and product manufacturing therefrom
A cellulosic feedstock composition including an oil content of up to 15% of the composition, a cellulose content of 40-99% of the composition, a hemicellulose content of 2-20% of the composition, a lignin content of less than 15% of the composition, a nitrogen containing organic compound content of less than 20% of the composition, a protein containing organic compound content of less than 20% of the composition, a mineral content of less than 5% of the composition, a sand content of less than 5% of the composition, and a dirt content of less than 25% of the composition. |
| US08617279B2 |
Air box with two suction channels
The present disclosure relates to an air box for an internal combustion engine, including a housing, having two suction openings as well as an outlet. |
| US08617277B2 |
Pressure regulation control assembly; crankcase ventilation filter assembly including pressure regulation control assembly; components; and, methods
A pressure control valve assembly, (i.e. pressure regulator valve assembly) is described which is configured for at least a two stage operation including: a first stage in which flow is allowed through two sections of the valve frame; and, a second stage in which the valve member is biased against one of the sections of the valve frame and not the second section. Specific example features and configurations are depicted and described. A crankcase ventilation filter assembly including the pressure control valve assembly is described. |
| US08617275B2 |
Polishing agent and method for polishing substrate using the polishing agent
Disclosed is a polishing agent comprising: water; tetravalent metal hydroxide particles; and an additive, wherein the additive contains at least one of a cationic polymer and a cationic polysaccharide. The present invention can provide a polishing agent which is capable of polishing an insulating film at a high speed with less polishing flaws, and having a high polishing rate ratio of a silicon oxide film and a stopper film, in the CMP technology of flattening insulating film. The present invention can also provide a polishing agent set for storing the polishing agent, and a method for polishing a substrate using this polishing agent. |
| US08617265B2 |
Hydrogen generation apparatus incorporating a staged catalyst and method for using same
A method and apparatus for generation of hydrogen. The apparatus includes a hydrogen reactor chamber (99) and a plurality of catalysts within the chamber (99) forming distinct zones or portions (200, 202, and 204), each zone or portion comprising a distinct catalyst or combination thereof. The plurality of catalysts include at least one of a high-activity steam reformation catalyst, coke resistant steam reformation catalyst and steam reformation catalyst that promotes a water gas shift reaction. |
| US08617262B2 |
Condensation of glycols to produce biofuels
The present disclosure relates to methods for converting light glycol streams of biological origin into products suitable for use as oxygenated fuel additives. These methods involve the acidic condensation of light glycols to form larger products, termed low molecular weight poly-glycols. The remaining hydroxyl functional groups of the poly-glycol products are then modified to decrease the overall polarity of the products, and improve their suitability for use as an oxygenated fuel additive. |
| US08617258B2 |
Cable-type secondary battery and manufacturing method thereof
Provided is a method for manufacturing a cable-type secondary battery including preparing an electrode assembly having a horizontal cross section of a predetermined shape and extending longitudinally, the electrode assembly including an inner current collector, an anode active material layer, a cathode active material layer, and an electrolyte layer interposed between the anode active material layer and the cathode active material layer, preparing a heat-shrinkable protection coating by forming a thin-film outer current collector on the inner surface of a heat-shrinkable tube, and inserting the electrode assembly into the heat-shrinkable protection coating and heating to shrink the heat-shrinkable protection coating such that the shrunken protection coating is closely adhered to the outer surface of the electrode assembly.The manufacturing method may eliminate the need of post-processing such as drying, thereby simplifying the method and carrying out the method in a continuous manner. |
| US08617257B2 |
Device for stacking successive separator and sheet electrode
There is provided a simple-structured and inexpensive device for stacking a successive separator and sheet electrodes which can protect an end portion of a sheet electrode when folding the successive separator, and which enables smooth folding of the separator to improve the productivity. The device comprises a stacking stage 10 which adsorbs and holds a leading end of the tape-like separator S, and on which sheet electrodes P, N and the separator S are successively stacked, separator reciprocating means for reciprocating the tape-like separator S on the stacking stage 10 with the stacking stage 10 being as a center, and a folding guide member 20 which comes close/moves apart relative to the stacking stage 10, covers both side ends of the stacked sheet electrode P, N in the moving direction of the separator S, and guides folding of the separator S accompanied by a reciprocal movement of the separator S at both side ends of the sheet electrode. |
| US08617256B2 |
Hair colorant compositions comprising 3-amino-2,6-dimethylphenol and 4-aminophenol-type developers, methods, and kits comprising the compositions
A hair colorant composition comprises 3-amino-2,6-dimethylphenol in combination with a second dye coupler selected from the group consisting of 2,6-dihydroxyethylaminotoluene, 2,6-diaminopyridine and a developer selected from the group consisting of 4-aminophenol, 4-amino-3-methylphenol, 4-(methylamino)phenol. A kit for coloring hair comprises the hair colorant composition. A method of treating hair comprises applying the hair colorant composition to hair. |
| US08617251B2 |
Trapezium implant for thumb and method
An implant for the trapezium of the thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) joint comprising an integral elastomeric member configured to include a body portion having a tapered neck, having extending from one end thereof an elongated, longitudinally extending tapered portion adapted to be embedded into a reamed out-channel in the thumb metacarpal bone. After implantation, in the preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, a segment of a nearby tendon, for example, the APL or FCR tendons, may be wrapped around the tapered neck of the implant to secure it in position, thereby forming a reinforced structure to inhibit dislocation of the prosthesis. However, in other methods, various other securing elements, including, but not limited to acellular matrices, may be used to retain the implant in position. |
| US08617249B2 |
Graft prosthetic composite for proximal humerus
A proximal humeral prosthesis includes a humeral head having a distal end and a proximal end adapted to be coupled to a glenoid cavity of a scapula; a humeral stem core having an outer surface, a distal end, and a proximal end adapted to be coupled to the distal end of the humeral head; a humeral stem graft having an inner surface adapted to be coupled to at least a portion of the outer surface of the humeral stem core, a distal end, a proximal end, and an outer surface including at least one tendon attachment site; and an intramedullary stem having a proximal end adapted to be coupled to the distal end of the humeral stem core and a distal end adapted to be coupled to at least one bone of a skeleton. The prosthesis can be rendered modular and can further include a spacer segment. Resorption of bone from the humeral stem graft can be inhibited by compression of the humeral stem graft. Further, the prosthesis can include sites for attachment of soft tissues to the prosthesis, soft tissues for attachment to soft or bony tissues of the recipient, or both, which can improve function of the shoulder joint. |
| US08617246B2 |
Devices and methods for facilitating controlled bone growth or repair
Bone implantable devices and methodologies permit careful application of biologically active substances and management of bone growth processes. The device includes a body defining a carrier receiving area for locating adjacent bone. Carrier material is located in the carrier receiving area. Substance is delivered onto carrier material through a port. A pathway delivers substance from the carrier receiving area to the bone surface. The body may be in the form of a spinal fusion cage, facet fusion screw, artificial joint, bone fixation plate, interbody graft, IM nail, hip stem, or other bone-to-bone appliances or bone-to-device appliances. In use, carrier is installed in the carrier receiving area of the device. The device is then implanted adjacent a bone. The substance is applied to the carrier for subsequent delivery to the bone. By doping carrier material after device implantation, inadvertent contact of the substance with non-target bone is more easily eliminated. |
| US08617245B2 |
Intervertebral implant having extendable bone fixation members
An intervertebral implant is configured to be fixed in an intervertebral space defined by a first vertebral body and a second vertebral body. The intervertebral implant includes an implant body sized to be inserted into an intervertebral space, and a fixation assembly configured to be attached to the implant body. The fixation assembly includes a housing that defines a first vertebral body facing surface and a second vertebral body facing surface spaced from the first vertebral body facing surface along a transverse direction. The fixation assembly further includes at least one fixation member supported by the housing and movable from a retracted position to an extended position, whereby in the extended position the fixation member extends out from the housing and into one of the vertebral bodies. |
| US08617244B2 |
Intervertebral implant
An intervertebral implant that is configured to be inserted into an intervertebral space along a direction of insertion is provided. The intervertebral space is defined by a superior vertebral body and an inferior vertebral body that are opposed in a transverse direction. The intervertebral implant may include a body and a first keel. The body may have first and second opposing outer surfaces that are each configured to engage one of the superior and inferior vertebral bodies. The first keel may extend out from the first outer surface in an outward direction and may define a lateral width that increases with respect to an outward direction along the first keel such that an outer portion of the first keel is wider than an inner portion of the first keel. The lateral width may be substantially transverse to the insertion direction and the outward direction. |
| US08617242B2 |
Implant device and method for manufacture
A knee implant includes a femoral component having first and second femoral component surfaces. The first femoral component surface is for securing to a surgically prepared compartment of a distal end of a femur. The second femoral component surface is configured to replicate the femoral condyle. The knee implant further includes a tibial component having first and second tibial component surfaces. The first tibial component surface is for contacting a proximal surface of the tibia that is substantially uncut subchondral bone. At least a portion of the first tibial component surface is a mirror image of the proximal tibial surface. The second tibial component surface articulates with the second femoral component surface. |
| US08617241B2 |
Double bundle ACL repair
A system for single tunnel, double bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction includes implant constructs and instruments. The implant constructs provide a combination of cortical fixation and bone tunnel aperture fixation. The implant constructs separate a graft into distinct bundles. The instruments are used to prepare shaped bone tunnels to receive the implant constructs and graft bundles. Methods for reconstructing the antero-medial and postero-lateral bundles of the anterior cruciate ligament may rely on single femoral and tibial tunnels and a single strand of graft. |
| US08617238B2 |
Transluminal cardiac ball valve and method for deployment thereof
A transluminal cardiac valve includes an expandable generally tubular cage including when expanded a generally uniform central region, first and second ends each diametrically constricted relative to the central region, a blood impervious region extending from the first end of the cage to within the generally uniform central region, and an inflatable plunger freely disposed and captured within the cage when inflated. |
| US08617229B2 |
System for outer eyelid heat and pressure treatment for treating meibomian gland dysfunction
A system for treating meibomian gland dysfunction comprising a heating element that applies heat to the outside of the eyelid to provide conductive heat transfer to the meibomian glands, which assists in the expression of obstructions or occlusions in the meibomian glands to restore sufficient sebum flow to the lipid layer to treat dry eye. A force application device may also apply force to the patient's eyelid during the application of heat to improve conductive heat transfer and reduce blood flow in the eyelid that causes convective heat loss, and to help express obstructions from the meibomian gland, including from a channel of the meibomian gland. Reaching increased temperature levels may improve the melting, loosening, or softening of obstructions or occlusions in the meibomian glands while reducing the amount of time to reach desired temperature levels and/or aid in reducing discomfort to the patient during treatment. |
| US08617228B2 |
Method and system for preventing nerve injury during a medical procedure
A method of treating tissue is provided, including positioning a stimulation device proximate a phrenic nerve; stimulating the phrenic nerve with the stimulation device; measuring a physiological response to the stimulation; defining a threshold physiological response value based at least in part on the measured physiological response; positioning a thermal treatment element proximate to an arrhythmogenic cardiac tissue region; applying a thermal treatment regimen to the cardiac tissue region with the medical device; measuring a physiological parameter during the thermal treatment regimen application; and conveying the measured physiological parameter to a controller, the controller comparing the measured physiological parameter to the defined physiological response value threshold, the controller adjusting the thermal treatment regimen in response to the comparison of the measured physiological parameter to the defined physiological response value threshold. |
| US08617227B2 |
Bone connector with pivotable joint
System, including methods, apparatus, and kits, for connecting bones and/or bone portions using a bone connector with a pivotable joint. |
| US08617225B2 |
Spline drive for threaded post-type bone anchors
A threaded bone anchor includes a plurality of recesses formed lengthwise along an exterior cylindrical surface for engagement with a driver instrument through which a user applies clockwise or counterclockwise torque for the insertion or removal of the bone anchor into and from bone. The bone anchor includes a cross-sectional geometry that minimizes the anchor's outer diameter, survives high insertion/removal torque without compromising the anchor's bending/shear strength, and allows a mating clamp to be attached to the entire non-threaded surface, including the recessed portion. |
| US08617220B2 |
System and method for correction of a spinal disorder
A surgical system and method for fusionless correction of a spine disorder are provided. The method comprising the steps of: providing access to a spine; providing a longitudinal element extending between a first end including a first fixation element and a second end including a second fixation element; engaging the first fixation element with a first costovertebral surface and engaging the second fixation element with a second costovertebral surface such that the longitudinal element is disposed in a costotransverse orientation along a selected section of the spine; and preventing growth of the selected section of the spine with the longitudinal element. |
| US08617214B2 |
Spinal tension band
Medical apparatuses for restricting the motion of a vertebra relative to another vertebra and methods for using the apparatuses are provided herein. The medical apparatuses comprise a flexible element having two ends and a connector capable of securing the ends of the flexible element to a first vertebra disposed above or below a second vertebra or to a spinal device. The flexible element is disposed across at least a portion of one or more vertebral elements of the second vertebra and is tensioned to restrict the motion of the second vertebra relative to the first vertebra. |
| US08617210B2 |
Percutaneous access devices and bone anchor assemblies
A percutaneous access device includes an inner tube and an outer tube disposed about at least a portion of the inner tube. The outer tube may be sized to span from a skin incision in a patient to a site proximate the spine of the patient. The distal end of the outer tube may be adapted to releasably engage a bone anchor. The inner tube may be adjustable relative to the outer tube between a first position and a second position in which the distal end of the inner tube contacts the bone anchor. A bone anchor assembly includes a bone anchor having a distal bone engaging portion and a receiving member having a recess for receiving a spinal fixation element. The proximal end of the receiving member may have an arcuate groove formed on an exterior surface thereof to facilitate connection of an instrument to the receiving member. |
| US08617202B2 |
Medical tubular shaft instrument and method for producing a force transmission element of the same
A medical tubular shaft instrument having a tube and a force transmission element extending lengthwise through the tube. The tube includes a jaw member arrangement on a distal end, which is coupled with the force transmission element and actuated by sliding the force transmission element along the tube. The tube includes a handpiece on a proximal end. The force transmission element, over part of its length, has a smaller outer diameter than the inner diameter of the tube to configure a ring-shaped flushing canal, and, one section along its length, it is centered in the tube in this section. The force transmission element includes precisely one section in which it is centered in the tube, and the section is in the vicinity of the distal end of the force transmission element and is perpendicular to its longitudinal axis by reshaping the force transmission element. |
| US08617197B2 |
Introducer device
An introducer and method provides a surgical tool with a pathway through tissue to a surgical site, wherein the surgical tool includes at least one surgical instrument. The introducer comprises a flexible sheath having a distal portion including a distal end and is arranged for receiving the surgical tool. A tissue separation tip at the distal portion of the sheath advances the sheath into the tissue towards the surgical site. The tissue separation tip is arranged to form a tissue gap and provide the at least one surgical instrument access to the tissue gap for performing a medical procedure consonant with the formation of the tissue gap or the performance of work at the surgical site. |
| US08617186B2 |
Independent suture tensioning and snaring apparatus
In repairing soft tissue with a bone anchoring instrument (such as reattaching a tendon of a torn rotator cuff), the bone anchoring instrument may be used to anchor the soft tissue to a region of bone. The anchors inserted into the underlying bone may have one or more lengths of suture or wire attached thereto which may be tensioned independently of one another to affix the soft tissue to the bone by having a selector mechanism selectively engage and disengage ratcheted tensioning wheels from one another. Suture loading mechanisms may be employed for passing suture lengths into and/or through the anchors prior to deployment into the bone where such mechanisms may employ suture snares which are configured to reconfigure from an expanded shape through which suture lengths may be easily passed to a low-profile shape which secures the suture lengths within the snare. |
| US08617182B1 |
Surgical staple remover
A surgical staple remover apparatus includes a handle located at a rear of the apparatus, an upward sloped jaw element comprising a pair of parallel jaws, an arm having a hook element on a first end, a pivot point located along the arm, such that the arm pivots about the pivot point, a lever coupled to the arm, wherein moving the lever closer to the handle results in the arm pivoting about the pivot point, the hook element moving downwards towards the jaw element and the arm retracting toward the rear, thereby resulting in the hook element pressing against a crown of a surgical staple and moving the surgical staple towards the rear, and a strip element located on top of the jaw element, such that the surgical staple is moved under the strip element and held in place by same. |
| US08617178B2 |
Surgical extractor
A medical device for removing an object from a body includes a retrieval basket having a distal section and a proximal section, at least two strands extending through the proximal section of the retrieval basket, and at least three prestressed filaments extending from a distal end of each of the at least two strands through the distal section of the retrieval basket. The filaments are spaced from each other through the entire distal section of the retrieval basket between a proximal end of the filaments and a distal end of the filaments. The filaments also converge at a distal end of the distal section of the retrieval basket, and the filaments are entwined to form each of the at least two strands. |
| US08617177B2 |
Wire basket unit having fixing disk element
A wire basket includes a fixing disc element coupled with several wire strands. The wire strands extend between a front end of the wire basket and a rear end of the wire basket to define an orbital shape. The fixing disc element forms a front closure of the wire basket and has at least first and second through-openings. A first of the wire strands is formed from a first wire segment that is looped through the first of the through-openings of the fixing disc element along a path extending from the rear end of the wire basket forward through the fixing disc element to form a U-shaped deflection that is looped through a separate second of the through-openings of the fixing disc element along a path extending from the fixing disc element to the rear end of the wire basket. |
| US08617176B2 |
Cross pinning guide devices and methods
Methods and devices are provided for implanting a cross-pin through a bone tunnel, such as in an arthroscopic surgical procedure. In general, the methods and devices allow a cross-pin hole to be formed in a medial side of a knee bone such that it intersects a bone tunnel formed in the knee bone. In one embodiment, a cross-pinning guide device is provided that can be configured to angularly position the cross-pin hole relative to the bone tunnel to allow the cross-pin hole to intersect the bone tunnel without passing through another side, e.g., a lateral side, of the knee bone. The knee bone can be a femur or a tibia such that the cross-pin hole and the bone tunnel can each be entirely formed in the femur or in the tibia. |
| US08617173B2 |
System for assessing a fit of a femoral implant
A system for virtually planning a size and position of a prosthetic implant for a bone on a patient includes a database containing pre-defined form factor information for a plurality of different implants and a circuit for obtaining surface shape information of the bone. The system further includes a circuit for defining baseline location parameters for an implant location in relation to a virtual representation of the bone based on the surface shape information and a circuit for assessing a fit calculation of each implant in relation to the virtual representation of the bone based on the form factor in formation and a plurality of fit factors at each of a plurality of incremental positions in relation to the bone. Still further, the system includes a circuit for selecting a best fit implant size and position from all of the fit calculations. |
| US08617169B2 |
Adjustable surgical instrument
A surgical instrument is described which comprises an alignment guide having a first part including a distal end and a second part having a proximal end. The first part is attached to the second part by a pivot mechanism so that the first part can be tilted relative to the second part. A brace is attached toward the proximal end of the alignment guide for attaching the instrument to a limb of a patient. A component is attached toward the distal end of the alignment guide. The pivot mechanism is configured so that tilting the first part does not substantially change the separation between the component and the brace. |
| US08617166B2 |
Navigation and positioning instruments for joint repair and methods of use
An instrument for controlled delivery of a device to a target area near a defect of a bone is provided. The instrument comprises a guide frame having a plurality of device portals, each portal defining a trajectory. The guide frame further includes visual markers for aligning the guide frame to an anatomical landmark on the bone to be treated. The instrument also includes a holder for releasable attachment with the guide frame. Each device portal is configured to provide accurate and controlled delivery of the device to the target area. In one example, the markers are radiopaque, and are visualized through fluoroscopy. A method of using the instrument is also provided. |
| US08617164B2 |
Surgical rasping systems and methods
A surgical rasping system functional in multiple orthopedic applications, including but not limited to shoulder, knee, hip, wrist, ankle, spinal, or other joint procedures. The system comprises a rasping head which may be low profile and offer a flat cutting/rasping surface, and is configured to be driven by an attached hub that translates a rotational movement into a reciprocating motion. Suction for removal of bone fragments or other tissues is provided through an opening spaced apart from or adjacent to the rasping surface. |
| US08617161B2 |
Orthopaedic plate and fastener assembly
Systems, devices and methods are disclosed for treating fractures. The systems, devices and methods may include one or both of an implant, such as an intramedullary nail, and a fastening assembly, such as a lag screw and compression screw assembly. The implant in some embodiments has a proximal section with a transverse aperture and a cross-section that may be shaped to more accurately conform to the anatomical shape of cortical bone and to provide additional strength and robustness in its lateral portions, preferably without requiring significant additional material. The fastening assembly may be received to slide, in a controlled way, in the transverse aperture of the implant. In some embodiments, the engaging member and the compression device are configured so that the compression device interacts with a portion of the implant and a portion of the engaging member to enable controlled movement between the first and second bone fragments. This configuration is useful for, among other things, compressing a fracture. |
| US08617159B2 |
Surgical instrumentation for performing endoluminal and/or transluminal anastomosis
An instrumentation for performing an endoluminal or transluminal anastomosis, comprises an anastomotic ring device including a proximal ring (5) having two guide wire seats (22) adapted to slidably receive two guide wires (1, 2) and a distal ring (6) having two guide wire seats (25) adapted to slidably receive the two guide wires (1, 2), the proximal ring 5 and the distal ring 6 being snap-connectable to each other, a surgical probe (7) comprising an elongate insertion shaft (30) and a probe head (32) adapted to be endoluminally advanced to a proximal tissue portion (3), the insertion shaft (30) defining guide wire canals (8, 9) extending into two guide wire exit openings (31) defined in the probe head (32) and adapted to deliver the distal ends (1″, 2″) of said guide wires (1, 2) to said proximal tissue portion (3). The distance between the two guide wire exit openings (31) of the probe (7) is substantially equal to the distance between the two guide wire seats (22) of the proximal ring (5) and to the distance between the two guide wire seats (25) of the distal ring (6). |
| US08617158B2 |
Radio frequency ablation cooling shield
A medical assembly and method are provided to effectively treat abnormal tissue, such as, a tumor. The target tissue is thermally ablated using a suitable source, such as RF or laser energy. A cooling shield is placed in contact with non-target tissue adjacent the target tissue, and actively cooled to conduct thermal energy away from the non-target tissue. In one method, the cooling shield can be placed between two organs, in which case, one of the two organs can comprise the target tissue, and the other of the two organs can comprise the non-target tissue. In this case, the cooling shield may comprise an actively cooled inflatable balloon, which can be disposed between the two organs when deflated, and then inflated. The inflatable balloon can be actively cooled by pumping a cooling medium through it. In another method, the cooling shield can be embedded within the non-target tissue. In this case, the cooling shield can comprise one or more needles. If a plurality of needles is used, they can be embedded into the non-target tissue in a series, e.g., a rectilinear or curvilinear arrangement. The needle(s) can be actively cooled by pumping a cooling medium through them. |
| US08617157B2 |
Hernia repair system
A hernia repair system includes a surgical mesh, one or more electrosurgical instruments, and one or more return electrodes. The one or more electrosurgical instruments are configured to position the surgical mesh adjacent tissue in an underlying tissue site. The one or more return electrodes are positionable adjacent the tissue and externally relative to the underlying tissue site. The one or more electrosurgical instruments and the one or more return electrodes are configured to selectively apply an effective amount of pressure and electrosurgical energy to the surgical mesh such that upon the application of electrosurgical energy and pressure, the surgical mesh seals to one side of the tissue at the underlying tissue site. |
| US08617156B2 |
Low power tissue ablation system
Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for the ablation of tissue. Embodiments include an ablation catheter that has an array of ablation elements attached to a deployable carrier assembly. The carrier assembly can be constrained within the lumen of a catheter, and deployed to take on an expanded condition. The carrier assembly includes multiple electrodes that are configured to ablate tissue at low power. Additional embodiments include a system that includes an interface unit for delivering one or more forms of energy to the ablation catheter. |
| US08617147B2 |
Method for modifying the refractive index of ocular tissues
A method for providing vision correction to a patient. The method includes: (a) measuring the degree of vision correction needed by the patient and determining the location and shape of refractive structures that need to be positioned within the cornea to partially correct a patient's vision; (b) directing and focusing femtosecond laser pulses in the blue spectral region within the cornea at an intensity high enough to change the refractive index of the cornea within a focal region, but not high enough to damage the cornea or to affect cornea tissue outside of the focal region; and (c) scanning the laser pulses across a volume of the cornea or the lens to provide the focal region with refractive structures in the cornea or the lens. Again, the refractive structures are characterized by a change in refractive index, and exhibit little or no scattering loss. |
| US08617145B2 |
Methods of treating a cardiac arrhythmia by thoracoscopic production of a Cox maze III lesion set
Methods of treating a subject for a cardiac arrhythmia are provided. Aspects of the methods include thoracoscopically producing a cardiac Cox maze III set of lesions in cardiac tissue of the subject in a manner sufficient to treat the subject for the cardiac arrhythmia. |
| US08617142B2 |
Implantable adjustable valve
A valve unit capable of being implanted in a patient and having adjustable performance settings, such as pressure settings and/or flow control, to regulate passage of a bodily fluid. A casing defines a port for the bodily fluid, and a valve mechanism positioned at the port includes a movable valve member. The valve unit further includes a rotor disposed at a first location in the casing and having an axle which turns about an axis of rotation. The rotor defines a plurality of arcuate, radially flat cam surfaces. Each cam surface occupies an arc about the axis of rotation. A spring arm unit is disposed at a second location in the casing having a cam follower arm in slidable contact with the cam surfaces of the rotor and having a resilient spring element applying a closing effect with the movable valve member to establish a performance setting for the valve unit. Sufficient rotation of the rotor to change the cam surface in contact with the cam follower alters the closing effect with which the valve member moves relative to the port and thereby alters the performance setting of the valve unit. |
| US08617141B2 |
Remote controlled in situ reaction device
Embodiments of a system including a remotely controlled reaction device and associated controller are described. Methods of use and control of the device are also disclosed. According to various embodiments, a reaction device is placed in an environment in order to perform a chemical reaction in an environment. Exemplary environments include a body of an organism, a body of water, or an enclosed volume of a fluid. In selected embodiments, a magnetic field, an electric field, or electromagnetic control signal may be used. |
| US08617138B2 |
Connection system for multi-lumen catheter
A catheter connection system and a method of connecting the catheter connection system to a catheter. The catheter connection system includes a hub assembly and a collar. The hub assembly includes a cannula extending from a distal end thereof, and a collet defining an inner surface spaced apart from the cannula to permit passage of a catheter wall between the body and the cannula. |
| US08617137B1 |
Enteral feeding system
An enteral feeding system reduces medical risk for aspirational pneumonia when an angle of a head gatch section is outside a predetermined range of 30-45 degrees. The system comprises a hospital bed having the head gatch section and an intravenous pole connected to an enteral feeding pump. The pump has a fluid sensor which operates properly when the pump is positioned along a vertical axis. The pole is connected to the head gatch section at a 30 degree angle offset from the vertical axis. In operation, when the head gatch section is positioned less than 30 degrees, the pump will stop operating and when the head gatch section is positioned at 30 degrees, the pump will operate since the pump is positioned along the vertical axis to allow the fluid sensor to detect fluid. |
| US08617136B2 |
Balloon catheter devices with drug delivery extensions
A medical device is provided for dilatation of a vessel and delivery of a therapeutic agent to a wall of the vessel. The medical device comprises a catheter, a balloon located at a distal end of the catheter, and a drug delivery extension. The drug delivery extension is configured to extend beyond an outer surface of the balloon when the balloon is in an expanded configuration in order to deliver the therapeutic agent to an area beyond the outer surface of the balloon. The drug delivery extension may be one or more tubes, elongate members and/or expandable structures. The drug delivery extension may include a sheath for drug delivery. |
| US08617135B2 |
System and method for closed-loop patient-adaptive hemodynamic management
A system and method for patient-adaptive hemodynamic management is described. One embodiment includes a system for hemodynamic management including transfusion, volume resuscitation with intravenous fluids, and medications, utilizing monitored hemodynamic parameters including the described dynamic predictors of fluid responsiveness, and including an intelligent algorithm capable of adaptation of the function of the device to specific patients. |
| US08617134B2 |
Connector, container with such a connector and fluid preparation device with a mating connector for such a container
A connector for connecting a container with a fluid preparation device for preparing a fluid, in particular a container with a concentrate for the preparation of dialysis fluid, as well as the combination of the connector, the corresponding container and the fluid preparation device. In order to simplify the handling during both the manufacturing process of such containers and the connection of such containers to the fluid preparation devices, the connector connects a first and second fluid line of the container with a third and fourth fluid line of the fluid preparation device with two laterally spaced-apart mounting elements which each incorporate one of two orifices terminating the first and second fluid lines. |
| US08617131B2 |
Refastenable absorbent article and a method of applying thereof
Absorbent articles such as disposable diapers, incontinent briefs, diaper holders, training pants and the like, having elastomeric flaps and a fastening system that provides the user with options as to how the absorbent article may be fitted to and removed from the wearer. The absorbent articles can be pulled on and/or off as a pant. This feature is provided by the ear panels which maintain sufficient tension to hold the diaper on the wearer throughout the period of use without harming the wearer's skin, while providing enough stretch to allow the diaper to be pulled up or down over the wearer's hips. The fastening system is refastenable for convenience yet strong enough to maintain the diaper in a fastened configuration without becoming detached if the diaper is pulled on or off the wearer. |
| US08617129B2 |
Apparatus for topical negative pressure therapy
Apparatus and a method for the provision of topical negative pressure therapy to a wound site are described, the apparatus comprising: vacuum generating means for generating a negative pressure at said wound site said vacuum generating means being operably connected to a dressing at said wound site by aspiration conduit means; pressure sensing conduit means in fluid communication with said aspiration conduit means at a junction adjacent said dressing; first pressure sensing means between said junction and said vacuum generating means; second pressure sensing means operably associated with said pressure sensing conduit means; diagnostic means in communication with said first and second pressure sensing means; and control means in communication with said diagnostic means for controlling pressure in said aspiration and said pressure sensing conduit means. |
| US08617128B2 |
Labeling of medical devices
An interventional medical device, for example, a chronic implantable medical electrical lead or drug delivery catheter, or an acute medical therapy delivery and/or diagnostic tool, such as a guide catheter, includes a label formed by laser marking a TiO2-loaded silicone medical adhesive, which is primarily employed for filling and bonding in the device. A laser marking apparatus is employed to form marks of the label in the cured adhesive that forms a backfill and bond in the device. |
| US08617126B2 |
Painless injector
Apparatus for use with tissue (22) of a subject, including a substance (24) configured to be injected into the tissue, and first and second tissue-squeezing surfaces (20) configured to be placed on first and second sides of the tissue, to exert pressure on the tissue by being moved toward each other in response to a squeezing force (F), and to facilitate injection of the substance into the tissue by releasing the substance in response to application of the squeezing force. |
| US08617125B2 |
Medical delivery system comprising a container and a dosing assembly with radially moving fastening means
A medical delivery system wherein one of a container and a dosing assembly comprises a first fastening means (116) and the other one of the container and the dosing assembly comprises a second fastening means (114); and wherein the second fastening means is adapted to move at least a part of the first fastening means in a radial direction upon rotation of the container in a first rotational direction relative to the dosing assembly, whereby the first and second fastening means engage such that the container and the dosing assembly are locked for relative translational movement. A container and a dosing assembly for use in the medical delivery system. |
| US08617124B2 |
Medicament delivery device
The present invention relates to a medicament delivery device comprising an elongated housing arranged to contain a medicament container which medicament container contains a number of doses; a dose counter mechanism comprising a dose drum arranged with dose indicia on its outer surface and visible through a window on said housing; a rotatable driver connected to said dose drum; a plunger rod arranged to act on said medicament container for expelling a dose of medicament; an actuation mechanism connected to said rotatable driver and to said plunger rod when said medicament delivery device is actuated; wherein said dose drum is arranged with internal threads, in engagement with corresponding threads on said driver, wherein said threads have a certain pitch; wherein said dose drum is also arranged with external threads in engagement with corresponding threads arranged fixed in relation to said housing, wherein said threads have a certain pitch; and wherein the pitch of the threads between the dose drum and fixed in relation to the housing is lesser than the threads between the dose drum and the driver such that when said driver is rotated a certain angular distance, said dose drum is rotated a lesser angular distance. |
| US08617123B2 |
Pre-filled active vial having integral plunger assembly
A pre-filled vial assembly adapted for dispensing and delivering a fluid includes: a body member having a distal end, a proximal end, and a sidewall extending therebetween defining an interior; and a transitionable stopper disposed within the interior of the body member. At least a portion of the body member is engageable with a source of air or fluid for advancing the transitionable stopper from an initial position to an activated position in which at least a portion of a fluid contained within the interior of the body member is advanced therefrom. |
| US08617122B2 |
Syringe needle sheath
A syringe is provided which comprises a barrel (11) and a needle sheath (30) slidably located within the barrel, a plunger (20) with a plunger seal (23), a needle, a needle sheath (30) and a sheath seal (50), arranged so that depression of the plunger forces the needle sheath to move into a position where it covers or at least partly encloses the needle after delivery of fluid contents of the syringe. The needle sheath may be manually actuated or may be actuated by decompression of a spring. The syringe may further comprise a plunger disabling means operable to impede, prevent or otherwise hinder withdrawal of the plunger during or following depression of the plunger. The syringe may be a pre-filled syringe or a syringe which is filled by a user. |
| US08617121B2 |
Drug delivery device
Drug delivery device, comprising a body unit having a first opening and a second opening, a plunger arranged such that its distal end is positioned inside the body unit, wherein the plunger is moveable in the distal direction with respect to the body unit, a needle assembly, with a proximal end and a distal end comprising a needle, wherein the proximal end of the needle assembly and the distal end of the plunger are configured such that they can get into a vacuum connection. |
| US08617120B2 |
Integrated syringe device with self-capping connector
An embodiment in accordance with the present invention provides an integrated syringe-device which can store a volume of fluid for infusion, can connect via an air-tight connector to another device (such as a luer connector), can flush fluid through the connector into the other device, and can deliver a cap that forms an air-tight closure to the device connector. |
| US08617117B2 |
Medical tubing assembly to facilitate tube fixation
The invention concerns a medical tubing assembly (100) comprising: finned medical tubing (10) formed from an elongate tubular member (20) disposed with one or more longitudinal fins (21, 21′, 21″), a collar (200), slidably mountable on the finned tubing (10), equipped with a locking means and optionally one or more suture eyelets (250, 250′), said locking means configured to provide a locking force against one or more of the longitudinal fins (21, 21′, 21″). The invention allows securing of a medical tubing in situ that prevents slippage or damage to the tubing wall. |
| US08617116B2 |
Deformable medical implant
The present invention comprises an implantable subcutaneous port for anchoring a transcutaneous treatment component. The implantable subcutaneous port comprises a body portion and one or more frangible lines formed within the body portion. The body portion is adapted for receiving the transcutaneous treatment component beneath the point of entry into the physiology of a patient and routing the transcutaneous treatment component. The body portion is produced from a deformable material and has an area footprint and defines a support wall through which the transcutaneous treatment component enters the body portion. Fracturing the one or more frangible lines formed within the body portion enables removal of the body portion from the physiology of a patient through a transcutaneous opening defining an area of less than thirty percent of the area footprint of the body portion. |
| US08617114B2 |
Drug coated balloon catheter
The present invention relates to balloon catheters for treating a luminal system of a patient. Specifically, the invention relates to catheters having a flexible membrane positioned at a distal portion of the catheter, the flexible membrane retained in a substantially unexposed conformation prior to deployment. Preferably the flexible membrane is capable of delivering a therapeutic agent to a localized environment when deployed to an exposed conformation. |
| US08617113B2 |
Insertion head with a handle
An insertion head for medical or pharmaceutical applications includes a base having a lower side which can be positioned on organic tissue; an insertion means movably mounted by the base and insertable into the tissue; where the insertion means is movable relative to the base from a protective position in which a free end of the insertion means is short of the lower side of the base, into an insertion position in which the free end protrudes beyond the lower side; a handle which projects from the base and includes a first handle component and a second handle component movable relative to the base and the first handle component; and a coupling that transmits a movement of the second handle component into a movement of the insertion means. |
| US08617112B2 |
Indwelling needle assembly
An indwelling needle assembly has a hollow outer needle, an outer-needle hub fixed to the base end of the outer needle, an inner needle inserted into the outer needle, an inner-needle hub fixed to the base end of the inner needle, a tube connected to the base end (or a side section) of the outer-needle hub so that the inner cavity of the tube is communicated with the inner cavity of the outer needle, and a protector that, when the inner needle is removed from the outer needle, covers at least the point of the inner needle and disconnectably connected to the outer-needle hub. A finger hold is formed in a projecting manner on a protector cover of the protector, and the finger hold is pressed by a finger to move the outer needle in the direction of its tip relative to the inner needle. The finger hold is formed in a shape that, when the outer needle is moved in the direction of its tip relative to the inner needle, causes force applied in the direction in which the finger hold projects relative to the center axis of the outer needle to act on the finger hold. |
| US08617110B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for detecting occlusions in an ambulatory infusion pump
An improved pump, reservoir and reservoir piston are provided for controlled delivery of fluids. A motor is operably coupled to a drive member, such as a drive screw, which is adapted to advance a plunger slide in response to operation of the motor. The plunger slide is removably coupled to the piston. Methods, systems, and articles of manufacture for automatically detecting an occlusion in a medication infusion pump are provided. The electrical current to an infusion pump may be measured. Based on measurements of one or more variables, such as force, the infusion pump detects whether there is an occlusion in the system. The methods of detecting occlusions may be dynamic. |
| US08617100B2 |
Device for delivery of a foamable composition
A device for delivery of a foamable composition to a body cavity includes a pressurized composition reservoir; a hollow body having a longitudinally extending wall and having at least one aperture provided through a wall of said body, the proximal end in fluid communication with the reservoir for receiving a foamable composition from said composition reservoir; and an actuator operatively connected to the composition reservoir for effecting release of a foamable composition from said composition reservoir into a body cavity through said hollow body; wherein said body has a length less than about 125 mm and internal diameter in the range of about 1.5 mm to about 3.5 mm, wherein said length and internal diameter are selected to provide a delivery of at least about 70% of the foamable composition during operation. The foam delivery device can have multiple apertures. |
| US08617098B2 |
Retrofittable aspiration prevention mechanism for patients
A device is employed that can be retrofit onto existing feed pumps to remediate the problem of fluid aspiration in patients being fed through a feeding tube from the pump. In one embodiment the feeding pump is plugged into the device which is plugged into a power outlet. A patient angle sensor triggers power cutoff to the pump and stoppage of fluid flow. The angle sensor and operating program may be part of a smart phone. Power to the pump may be shut off due to a BLUETOOTH® signal from the smart phone to a BLUETOOTH® controlled power strip into which the pump is plugged to receive power. |
| US08617097B2 |
Drug-delivery accessory for an implantable medical device
An implantable drug-delivery sleeve for an elongate component of an implantable medical device. The sleeve includes a tubular substrate having a lumen configured to receive the elongate component so as to allow relative displacement of the substrate and the elongate component, wherein the substrate is shaped so as to be retained stationary at a desired position along the elongate component, and a drug releasably carried by the substrate. |
| US08617094B2 |
Fluid infusion methods for glaucoma treatment
Methods of treating ocular disorders are disclosed, such as a method that includes inserting an implant in eye tissue, using a delivery instrument, such that an inlet portion of the implant is in an anterior chamber of an eye and an outlet portion of the implant is in a physiological outflow pathway; removing the delivery instrument from the eye without removing the implant; and conducting fluid comprising a therapeutic substance through the implant and into the physiological outflow pathway. Another method includes inserting an instrument into a physiologic outflow pathway through which aqueous humor drains from an anterior chamber of an eye; separating first and second walls of tissues which comprise the physiologic outflow pathway by injecting a fluid comprising a drug from the instrument while the instrument remains in the physiologic outflow pathway; and withdrawing the instrument following the injection with said fluid remaining within the eye such that the drug has a therapeutic effect on the eye. |
| US08617093B2 |
Method and device for monitoring a fluid system of an extracorporeal blood treatment device
The present invention relates to a method and a device for monitoring a fluid system of an extracorporeal blood treatment device. In the method according to the present invention and the device according to the present invention, the pressure in a ventilation line branching off the venous drip chamber in the venous blood line is measured, a hydrophobic filter being disposed in the ventilation line. A fault in the fluid system is determined in the absence of pressure variations in the segment of the ventilation line remote from the venous drip chamber. The pressure variations in the ventilation line can be generated downstream of the hydrophobic filter by alternately ventilating the ventilation line that is closed downstream of the hydrophobic filter during blood treatment. |
| US08617091B2 |
Animal spine brace
An animal spine brace is described. In one or more implementations, a brace is comprised of an upper panel and a lower panel that extends from the upper panel. The lower panel is configured to be releasably secured to the upper panel to form a sleeve around an animal. The upper and lower panels may be made of a breathable material that is configured to stretch, wick moisture from the animal, and/or control odor. Additionally, both the upper panel and lower panel are configured to include supportive stays, which may be arranged on a respective panel to fan out. |
| US08617087B2 |
Control handle with rotational cam mechanism for contraction/deflection of medical device
A medical device has a distal member with a configuration that can be changed by means of a control handle with a control assembly employing a rotational cam, a shaft, and a pulley, where the rotational cam is rotationally mounted on a portion of the control handle for rotation by a user. The rotational cam operates on the shaft to move it proximally or distally depending on the direction of rotation which in turn rotates the pulley to draw or release a puller wire to change the configuration of the distal member of the medical device. The shaft is oriented along a diameter of the control handle. The shaft has two ends which extends through two axial guide slots in the portion of the control handle to sit two opposing helical tracks formed on inner surface of the rotational cam. The guide slots are parallel with the longitudinal axis of the control handle and therefore maintain the shaft's diametrical orientation as the rotational cam is rotated to move the shaft proximally or distally. Actuation of the puller wire by means of the control assembly can result in a change of the distal member's configuration, including deflection, contraction and/or expansion. |
| US08617085B2 |
Bone tissue extracting device and method
A bone tissue extracting device operable with one hand comprises an ergonomic handle containing a forward and reverse cannula driver and a vacuum source. The device uses a disposable sterile single use cannula/trocar and disposable vacuum containers. The device and method for use improve the ability of a physician to locate accurately the target tissue in a patient, increase the probability that one or more suitable samples will be recovered from the patient at a single attempt, decrease attendant tissue trauma and patient discomfort, and decrease the chance of infection. |
| US08617083B2 |
Method and apparatus for predicting work of breathing
A method of creating a non-invasive predictor of both physiologic and imposed patient effort from airway pressure and flow sensors attached to the patient using an adaptive mathematical model. The patient effort is commonly measured via work of breathing, power of breathing, or pressure-time product of esophageal pressure and is important for properly adjusting ventilatory support for spontaneously breathing patients. The method of calculating this non-invasive predictor is based on linear or nonlinear calculations using multiple parameters derived from the above-mentioned sensors. |
| US08617081B2 |
Estimating cardiac pulse recovery from multi-channel source data via constrained source separation
What is disclosed is a system and method for recovering a patient's cardiac pulse rate from a sequence of video images recording of that patient. In one embodiment, a reference signal of a particular frequency is generated at predetermined frequency intervals and a constrained source separation is performed on the source data to obtain an estimation of the source signal intended to be recovered. The reference signal is updated and constrained source separation is again performed. These operations are repeated for all frequencies of the reference signal. The frequency at which a minimum error is achieved is determined to be the subject's recovered cardiac pulse frequency. In such a manner, the source signal is extracted and recovered reliably from captured multi-channel RGB signals or multispectral signals. The teachings hereof find their uses in a variety of medical solutions including various military, security and telemedicine applications. Various embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08617076B2 |
Maternal contribution detection during fetal heart monitoring
A fetal heart signal contribution is determined from an ultra sound signal by suppressing any maternal contribution from the ultrasound signal. The fetal heart signal contribution is canceled or subtracted from the ultrasound signal. An alarm is outputted based upon a result of the cancellation. |
| US08617064B2 |
Adjustable rail clamp with clamp locking device
An adjustable surgical retractor clamping mechanism for attaching mechanism to an operating table. The mechanism includes an upper jaw, lower jaw, a drive member, an adjustable frame support post and a releasable clamp for adjusting the height of the surgical retracting frame. The upper portion of the lower jaw has a plurality of slots cut into the sidewalls of upper jaw to form at least one flexible finger. The clamp is in close sliding relationship to the upper portion of lower jaw member. The clamp includes a cam lever. Movement of the cam lever to its closed position compresses the clamp causing the flexible fingers to grip the adjustable post locking its longitudinal movement. Rotation of the cam lever to the open position releases the compressive force on the clamp, unlocking the adjustable post allowing the post to be longitudinally adjusted relative to the clamping mechanism. |
| US08617063B2 |
Retractor component system and method comprising same
A blade assembly has a blade body and a blade body surround. A retractor attachment structure is attached to the blade body at the first end portion thereof extending from an exterior surface thereof. The retractor attachment structure is configured for having one of the blade body mounting structures of the retractor engaged therewith in a manner whereby the blade body is independently pivotable about and translatable along the blade body mounting structure. An alignment member protrudes from an interior surface of the blade body adjacent its first end portion. A slot extends through the blade body at its first end portion. The blade body surround and the blade body jointly form a generally cylindrical-shaped structure when the blade body is in a seated position within the slot. The cylindrical structure defines a central passage extending between the first and second end portions of blade body surround. |
| US08617061B2 |
Device for measuring and analysing the colour of the outer ear and ear canal
The present application concerns a device for measurement and analysis of the middle ear and ear channel color for the diagnosis of ear infections. The device is composed of a otoscope (1), including two optical fibers (2a and 2b): one for ear illumination and another returning the reflected light. The electronic unit (3) can change linearly the power of emitted light, as well as, its color. The received light is also independently measured, enabling the determination of changes on color and texture associated with the ear inflammations. Command buttons in the otoscope handler (4) enable the user to save the values of the three color components. The combined value of the components is shown in the digital display (5) of the electronic unit, as well as, by a set of LEDs (6) green, yellow and red that gives a diagnosis in a simple and immediate way. The otoscope allows, simultaneously, directly ear view through a magnifying glass (7) applied in the head of the otoscope, with a standard white light. This device is also useful in food industry. |
| US08617059B2 |
Endoscopic apparatus and endoscope adapter
An endoscope adapter for use with an endoscope is provided. The endoscope includes an endoscopic insertion section subject to be inserted into an object subject to inspection and the endoscope adapter so that the endoscopic insertion section has an insertion section electrodes; the endoscope adapter comprises a lighting section for emitting light to the object and an adapter electrode section connected to the lighting section. The adapter electrode section comprises: an elongated hollow casing having an opening section at one end in the longitudinal direction of the casing; and a columnar electrode terminal configured to be movable in the longitudinal direction in the hollow casing and capable of projecting from the longitudinal direction end of the hollow casing. The inner diameter of the opening section is equalized to the outer diameter of the electrode terminal. It is possible to provide an endoscopic apparatus and an endoscope adapter having an endoscope adapter and an endoscopic insertion section not so significant in sizes; being capable of closing an opening section in a state where the endoscope adapter is attached to the endoscopic insertion section; and being capable of maintaining the electrode terminal clean for a prolonged period. |
| US08617055B2 |
Endoscope aparatus with priority-based driving control on identifiable plural connections
An endoscope apparatus includes: a plurality of connection portions to which an endoscope can be connected, respectively, wherein a priority setting portion sets a connection priority of the plurality of connection portions, a drive portion supplies a drive signal to one endoscope and a control portion that controls so that the drive portion supplies the drive signal to any one endoscope only based on the connection priority. The endoscope apparatus further includes an identification portion that identifies the kind of endoscope based on a resistance value of a specific resistance that differs according to a kind of the endoscope that is arranged in the endoscope, and that is detected by cancelling a contact resistance in the connection portion. |
| US08617053B2 |
Remote position control for surgical apparatus
A system for performing a minimally invasive surgical procedure includes a cannula, a surgical instrument for use through the cannula, and a remote positioning system to adjust the relative position between the surgical instrument and the cannula. By allowing a physician to perform the minimally invasive surgical procedure at a distance from the patient, the remote positioning system minimizes the radiation exposure of the physician while still providing accurate control over the procedure. |
| US08617050B2 |
Anatomical augmentation device
An anatomical augmentation device configured to augment a tubular member of a human body includes an inflatable bladder, a support coupled to the inflatable bladder, and a pump coupleable with the inflatable bladder. The support includes a first connection line and a second connection line that are each attachable to soft tissue to position the inflatable bladder relative to the tubular member of the human body. The device is a body-implantable device and the pump is configured to selectively inflate the inflatable bladder to occlude the tubular member of the human body. |
| US08617047B2 |
Apparatuses for the amelioration of urinary incontinence in females
An apparatus for treating urinary incontinence, comprising: a support section adapted for providing urethral support; an anchoring section for resisting movement of the apparatus; an insert, a portion of which is adapted to be positioned where the support section attaches to the node; and, wherein the insert urges the support section radially outwards from a central axis of the apparatus. |
| US08617046B2 |
Floating sling for treatment of incontinence
Improved methods and apparatuses for treatment of fecal and urinary incontinence are provided. Methods of placing mesh support strips adjacent the urethra or rectum (as in positions of support for levator ani muscles) through minimal number of incisions, with minimal amount of mesh, are disclosed. Methods combining such mesh support strip placement with injecting proliferative agents for support are disclosed. |
| US08617042B2 |
Methods for separating constituents of biologic liquid mixtures
Centrifuges are useful to, among other things, remove red blood cells from whole blood and retain platelets and other factors in a reduced volume of plasma. Platelet rich plasma (PRP) can be obtained rapidly and is ready for immediate injection into the host. Embodiments may include valves, operated manually or automatically, to open ports that discharge the excess red blood cells and the excess plasma while retaining the platelets and other factors. High speeds used allow simple and small embodiments to be used at the patient's side during surgical procedures. The embodiments can also be used for the separation of liquids or slurries in other fields such as, for example, the separation of pigments or lubricants. |
| US08617039B2 |
Packaging device
A method of and a device for folding a bottom of a package, which includes a sleeve of packaging material with a transversal seal in the end of the bottom forming portion of the package, the portion having the shape of a fin. The method includes folding the fin and forming primary flaps, breaking corners on the folded fin between the primary flaps and the edge between the part of the sleeve forming the bottom and the rest of the sleeve, such that secondary flaps are folded in between the primary flaps and the fin, the secondary flaps thereby being folded essentially towards each other, folding the primary flaps towards each other, and pressing the primary flaps towards the remaining part of the bottom forming part of the sleeve. |
| US08617036B2 |
Barbell assembly
A barbell assembly includes an axle having two connection holes respectively defined in two ends thereof and two outer tubes are respectively mounted to the two ends of the axle. Each outer tube has a space and two collars are respectively located in the two spaces of the two outer tubes. The two collars are respectively mounted to the two ends of the axle. Two locking units each include a control ring, a locking member and a cap. The control ring is located in the space of the outer tube corresponding thereto. Each locking member has an engaging portion which extends through the control ring and is connected with the connection hole of the axle. The cap is fixed to the outer tube and presses the control ring to contact against the collar and the axle. |
| US08617031B2 |
Method for controlling an automated friction clutch
A method for controlling an automated friction clutch arranged in a drive train between an internal combustion engine and a gearbox, including: operating the friction clutch by a clutch actuator controlled by means of a controller; transmitting actual clutch torque by means of the friction clutch; implementing actual clutch torque that can be transmitted by means of the friction clutch and that can be adapted to the transmission behavior of the friction clutch by means of a control variable of the clutch actuator associated with a target torque of the clutch torque to be transmitted; operating the friction clutch in an engaged state while the target torque is specified; and adapting the target torque depending on clutch torque estimated from the operating data of the engine. The target torque corresponds to an engine torque that is generated by the internal combustion engine and that is applied with a safety margin. |
| US08617028B2 |
System for managing torque in a vehicle driveline coupled to an internal combustion engine and an electric motor
A system is provided for managing torque in a vehicle driveline coupled to an internal combustion engine and to a hybrid motor/generator. An engine control circuit provides to a transmission control circuit an engine torque value corresponding to torque applied by the engine to the driveline. A hybrid control circuit provides to the transmission control circuit a motor torque value corresponding to torque applied by the hybrid motor/generator to the driveline. The transmission control circuit controls operation of at least one friction device and controls shifting of the transmission, and also manages torque applied to the drive line by the engine and by the hybrid motor/generator based on the engine torque value and the motor torque value such that the friction device control and shift schedule instructions do not require modification to accommodate inclusion of the hybrid motor/generator in the system or exclusion of the hybrid motor/generator from the system. |
| US08617026B2 |
Face spline clutch
A mode shift assembly for a transmission comprises has a first side coupled to a rotational input, a second side coupled to a rotational output, and an actuator. The actuator acts on the first side to move the first side between a first position in which the first and second engagement surfaces are disengaged and a second position. In the first position, rotation between the first and second sides is independent. In the second position, the first and second engagement surfaces are engaged such that rotation is transferred from the first side to the second side. |
| US08617025B2 |
Planetary gearbox
The invention relates to a planetary gearbox comprising a drive shaft (1) and a driven shaft (2), which are mounted in a gearbox housing, and at least one first (4) and second (5) planetary stage. Furthermore, a single-piece gearbox housing casing (3) is provided, which encloses the first (4) and second (5) planetary stage and is closed at the end face via a housing cover (7). At least one separating wall (6) is arranged in the interior of the gearbox housing, said separating wall dividing the interior into two subchambers. Each subchamber accommodates a planetary stage. The planetary stages (4, 5) are connected to each other by a shaft that is guided through an opening in the separating wall. Ring gears (14, 24) of the planetary stages are fixed at the end face to the separating wall (6). This allows the use of a material for the ring gears (14, 24), which differs from that of the gearbox housing casing (3) or the separating wall (6), so that no high-grade material has to be used for components, the function of which does not require so. |
| US08617024B2 |
Axle final drive assembly
The invention relates to a final drive assembly. An axle final drive assembly includes an axle housing, and axially inner and outer axle bearings supported by the axle housing. An axle shaft has a flange and is supported for rotation by the outer axle bearing. A planetary transmission has a planet carrier fixed for rotation with the flange of the axle shaft. The planet carrier has a neck which is supported for rotation by the inner axle bearing. The planetary transmission also has a ring gear and a plurality of planet gears which are positioned axially between the inner and outer axle bearings. |
| US08617023B1 |
Planetary gear train of automatic transmission for vehicles
A planetary gear train of an automatic transmission may include a first planetary gear set including a first sun gear, a first planet carrier, and a first ring gear, a second planetary gear set including a second sun gear receiving an inverse rotation speed from the first ring gear, a second planet carrier, and a second ring gear selectively connected to the first planet carrier or the first ring gear, a third planetary gear set including a third sun gear selectively connected to the first planet carrier, the first ring gear, or the second ring gear, a third planet carrier, a third ring gear selectively connected to the first sun gear, three transfer gears engaging three rotation elements of the first planetary gear set with selected rotation elements, and five frictional elements selectively interconnecting the rotation elements or selectively connecting the rotation elements to a transmission housing. |
| US08617022B1 |
Multi-speed automatic transmission
An automatic transmission includes a first planetary gear set including a first sun gear, a first pinion, and a ring gear of the first planetary gear set. The transmission includes a second planetary gear set including a second sun gear, a second pinion, and a common gear. The transmission includes a third planetary gear set including a third sun gear, the second pinion, a third pinion, and the common gear. The transmission also includes a fourth planetary gear set including the common gear, a fourth pinion, and a ring gear of the fourth planetary gear set. The second planetary gear set and the third planetary gear set form a Ravigneaux gear set. The fourth planetary gear set is concentrically arranged with the second planetary gear set or the third planetary gear set, and the second and third planetary gear sets are radially inward of the fourth planetary gear set. |
| US08617020B2 |
Continuously variable transmission
A continuously variable transmission having a transmission input (60) and a transmission output (114) is described. The transmission has a variator (56). This is a device which transmits drive at steplessly variable ratio. It further comprises an epicyclic gear arrangement (58) incorporating a clutch arrangement (152). The epicyclic gear arrangement has three rotary members. One of these is coupled to a planet carrier (86) having at least one planet gear (94). Another of the rotary members is coupled to a main gear (90) meshing with the planet gear. The clutching arrangement serves to couple the remaining rotary member to either of first and second alternative gears (96, 98), both of which mesh with the planet gear and which rotate at different speeds. One of the aforesaid rotary members is coupled to the transmission input at a fixed drive ratio. One of them is coupled to the variator output. The last of the rotary members is coupled to the transmission output. By way of the clutching arrangement the transmission can be changed between first and second ratio ranges. |
| US08617018B2 |
Transmission for operating an auxiliary assembly
A transmission for operating an auxiliary assembly in a drivetrain of a hybrid vehicle, includes a first sun gear rotatable about a main axis on a drive input side of the transmission, a first planet gear in engagement with the first sun gear on the drive input side of the transmission, a second planet gear on a drive output side of the transmission and mounted with the first planet gear on a common shaft, and a second sun gear in engagement with the second planet gear on the drive output side of the transmission, for coupling to the auxiliary assembly. The first planet gear is connected to the shaft by a first freewheel, which generates a rotationally conjoint connection when the first planet gear overruns in a first direction of rotation, and generates a freewheeling connection when the first planet gear overruns in a second, opposite direction of rotation. The shaft is mounted in a second freewheel in a planet carrier, which second freewheel permits a rotation of the shaft when the shaft rotates about its axis in the first direction of rotation and blocks a rotation of the shaft in the second, opposite direction of rotation. |
| US08617015B2 |
Bicycle chain rings
Embodiments of the present invention include bicycle chain rings for bicycles having specially shaped ramps, tapers and profiled teeth for improved shifting performance. The embodiments of bicycle chain rings of the present invention may be configured for large chain rings on double cranksets and large and middle chain rings on triple cranksets. The embodiments of bicycle chain rings of the present invention may also be retrofitted to existing bicycle cranksets by replacing original chain rings. The embodiments of bicycle chain rings of the present invention may further be configured for any standard crankset mounting bolt configuration and for any suitable number of teeth. |
| US08617014B2 |
Drive means and chain drive with polygonal compensation
Drive means for the polygonally-compensated drive of a sprocket, comprising two pulling means wheels (1, 2), a pulling means (3) running on them with an top span (31) and a bottom span (32), and a tensioning means acting on the pulling means (3), wherein the tensioning means comprises a first non-circular compensation wheel (4), which can come into contact with the top span (31), a second non-circular compensation wheel (5), which can come into contact with the bottom span (32), a rocker (6) adapted for rotatably receiving the first compensation wheel (4) and the second compensation wheel (5), wherein the rocker (6) is pivotably supported on a fixed bearing. The invention also relates to a chain drive, comprising at least a sprocket (7), a drive means, wherein the sprocket (7) is driven by the drive means, wherein the drive means is a drive means according to at least one of the claims 1 to 17. |
| US08617013B2 |
Tensioner with expanding spring for radial frictional asymmetric damping
A tensioner is disclosed that may be part of a power system where the tensioner provides tension to an endless power transmitting element such as a belt, chain, or other continuous loop. The tensioner has an arm that is rotatable about a first axis and includes an arm arbor having a slot therethrough, a bushing having a protrusion and being positioned adjacent the arm arbor with the protrusion received in the arm arbor's slot, and a spring coupled to the arm urging the arm to rotate about the first axis into tensioning engagement with a power transmitting element. The spring is positioned where it can radially expand into contact with the protrusion of the bushing as the arm is rotated in a direction opposite the direction of tensioning engagement such that the bushing is urged radially outward relative to the arm arbor to provide frictional damping. |
| US08617010B2 |
Fletching system and method therefor
A fletching system and method that allows for quick and easy attachment of a fletching member to an arrow or cross bolt shaft provides a slotted fletch holder adapted to receive a fletching member projecting therethrough and an external end cap member to provide frictional fit engagement with a flanged base portion of the fletching member wherein the flanged base portion is secured between the end cap member and an internal surface of a sidewall of the fletch holder. |
| US08617003B2 |
Golf ball having specific spin, moment of inertia, lift, and drag relationship
Golf ball with a novel combination of spin rate, lift coefficient, drag coefficients, and optionally moment of intertia: a golf ball with a low spin rate, a high lift coefficient, a low drag coefficient, and optionally a high moment of inertia; and a golf ball with a high spin rate, a low lift coefficient, a low drag coefficient, and optionally a low moment of inertia. |
| US08617002B2 |
Wedge type golf club head with improved performance
A wedge type golf club head with improved performance characteristic is disclosed herein where at least a striking surface of the wedge type golf club head is coated with a polymer coating to decrease the coefficient of friction as well as create a hydrophobic surface to remove dirt and debris. More specifically, the present invention discloses a wedge type golf club head with a hydrophobic polymer coating that creates a contact angle of greater than about 90 degrees as well as decreases the coefficient of friction to be less than about 0.1. |
| US08616998B2 |
Club heads with contoured back faces and methods of manufacturing the same
Embodiments of club heads with contoured back faces and methods of manufacturing the same are described herein. Other embodiments and related methods are also disclosed herein. |
| US08616997B2 |
Multi-metal golf clubs
A composite material golf club head is provided having a body made from a first metal and a face insert press fitted to a portion of the body and made from a second metal The metals are chosen so that the first metal is heavier than the second metal. The second metal is disposed towards the front and top of the body, and is preferably hard-anodized. In addition, an interlocking structure, for example rectangular or dove tail shaped channels, is provided in the body so that the face insert becomes embedded in the interlocking structure to anchor the face insert to the body. Portions of the golf club head, such as the face insert or sole plate, are anodized to protect against corrosion. The anodized coating is colored to improve aesthetic characteristics or infused with a polymer to increase or reduce friction.Disclosed herein is a golf club head having a body portion and a face insert. The front of the body portion further comprises a cutout sized and dimensioned to receive the face insert. The body portion is preferably made from a high-strength metal such as stainless steel, titanium or titanium alloy. The face insert is preferably comprised of a metal having a lower density than that of the body portion. The face insert comprises an aluminum metal matrix composite (MMC) containing an amount of scandium and zirconium. The golf club head may also include a top line insert made of a lightweight material and at least one heavy weight member disposed to the back of the club head. |
| US08616995B2 |
Releasable and interchangeable connections for golf club heads and shafts
Golf club heads are releasably engaged with shafts so that the club heads and shafts can be readily interchanged and/or so that the shaft position with respect to the club head can be readily changed. Assemblies for connecting the club head and shaft may include: (a) a shaft engaging member including a rotation-inhibiting structure; (b) a club head engaging member including a shaft-receiving chamber and a retaining structure for engaging the rotation-inhibiting structure; and (c) a securing system for releasably securing the shaft engaging member with respect to the club head engaging member. The club head and shaft may be changed by releasing the securing system and exchanging the original parts with different parts. Furthermore, the shaft may be bent or otherwise extend at an angle from the shaft engaging member so as to allow adjustment of the shaft position with respect to the club head. |
| US08616993B2 |
Putter path detection and analysis
A putting stroke sensor assembly is cooperable with a putter head. The putting stroke sensor assembly includes a processor, a memory storing a preferred putting path, and an accelerometer configured to measure characteristics of a putting stroke. The processor is programmed to compare the characteristics of the putting stroke with the preferred putting path and to generate an output indicative of the comparison. |
| US08616992B2 |
Putter with alignment indicia
A putter includes a handle (2), a putter head (1) with a striking surface, and two alignment indicia (6) symmetrically arranged relative to a vertical plane (20) which is perpendicular to the striking surface and passes through a striking line. Wherein the visible part of the alignment indicia (6) are symmetrical to the vertical plane (20) when being viewed in the vertical plane (20), while not symmetrical to the vertical plane (20) when being viewed in a plane offsetting from the vertical plane (20). |
| US08616990B2 |
Golf club
A golf putter with an offset and shaft-attachment design is disclosed and claimed. The club includes a head having a strike surface, a sole, and a top line. A tube is coupled to the head, a coupling member is coupled to the distal end of the tube, and a shaft is also coupled to the coupling member. The coupling member connects the tube and the shaft such that they are relatively offset. The longitudinal axes of the tube and the shaft may be substantially parallel. An alignment indicia is provided on the club head. The tube is coupled to the head at an angle such that it blocks the indicia from a user's view at address when the head is aligned properly. If the club head is not properly aligned, the golfer will be able to see the indicia and therefore know to adjust the club head before putting. |
| US08616988B1 |
Golf simulation system
A green simulation apparatus may comprise a covering forming a configurable upper surface with a changeable contour and being flexible such that the covering is movable between a base condition in which the upper surface has a substantially planar configuration and a contoured condition in which the upper surface has a contoured configuration. The apparatus may also comprise a covering support assembly configured to support the covering in the base condition and the contoured condition. |
| US08616985B2 |
Coupling
A coupling that requires misalignment measures comprises a first hub and second hub, and a connection member that connects the first hub 10 and second hub 20 with each other, wherein the connection member has a plurality of columns, and beams that connect the respective columns with each other, wherein the beams that are next to each other among the respective beams are connected with the respective columns at the end of the first hub side on one side, and are connected with the respective columns at the end on the second hub side. |
| US08616982B2 |
Gaming terminal with improved latching for a cabinet
A gaming terminal for conducting a wagering game includes a main body having a cabinet door and a top box positioned above the main body. The cabinet door has a closed position and an open position. The top box includes a crown that is moveable from a first position that prohibits access to the top box to a second position that provides access to the top box. The gaming terminal further includes a latching assembly for securing and releasing the crown. The latching assembly is configured to release the crown in response to the cabinet door being in the open position so as to permit movement of the crown from the first position to the second position. The latching assembly is further configured to secure the crown in response to the crown being moved from the second position to the first position when the cabinet door is in the closed position. |
| US08616979B1 |
Interactive game system and method using location determining means
A system and method comprising of a social networking game system comprising of: a standalone, wearable gaming device configured for activating an application program stored on a mobile displaying device, wherein the application program is configured for activating location determining means to start a monitoring session, and wherein the location determining means is also configured for tracking a game player's moving parameters during the monitoring session; the application program is further configured for converting the game player's moving parameters into game player's statistics; and communication means positioned within the mobile displaying device for transmitting the game player's statistics to at least one remote server, wherein the at least one remote server includes at least one processor and computer executable instructions readable by the at least one processor and operative to conduct a game. |
| US08616972B2 |
Method for interacting a display with mechanical reels
Various methods for interacting with mechanical reels via a video screen are disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises providing a gaming machine having one or more mechanical reels positioned behind a video screen, wherein the video screen includes a touch screen and user interface for receiving user input. The mechanical reels spin and generate a game outcome, visible to the player through a video screen. A request is received, via the user interface, to rearrange the placement order of the mechanical reels, and the rearranged order of the mechanical reels is displayed on the video screen. |
| US08616971B2 |
Automated enhancements for billiards and the like
Position data is generated. The position data describes a respective current position of each of one or more billiard game objects in relation to a billiard table having a playing surface. A state of a billiards game being played is determined based on the position data. One or more perceptible effects associated with the determined state of the billiards game are selected. The one or more perceptible effects are produced in connection with the billiards game. |
| US08616968B2 |
Secure tower for a gaming system
A secure slot tower that is configured to be fixedly coupled to a gaming machine is described. The secure tower comprises a top housing component, a hollow tube, a collar, a second window segment, a printed circuit board, and a base. The hollow tube is coupled to the top housing component. Additionally, the secure tower includes pressing the base, the second window segment, the collar, the first window segment, the hollow tube, and the top housing component together. The printed circuit board is disposed between the first window segment and the second window segment and the printed circuit board comprises at least one light. |
| US08616966B2 |
Method of gaming, a gaming system and a game controller
A method of gaming with multiple players comprising: determining a set of eligible multi-player game players; assigning each eligible multi-player game player a number of multi-player game turns depending on a wager amount; and conducting the multi-player game turns with the eligible multi-player game players and determining multi-player game turn outcomes until a multi-player game end condition occurs. |
| US08616964B2 |
Open-ended betting pool
Methods and systems for hosting a betting pool are disclosed. The betting pool can be hosted by a lead participant. Pool participants can be maintained through a partner relationship module. The betting pool lead participant manages events associated with the betting pool through an event manager and through a pool manager. Winning participants in the betting pool are determined and payouts can be processed. |
| US08616960B2 |
Method of gaming, a gaming system and a game controller
A gaming system in which a prize value for a current game is determined. A minimum prize value is determined based on a previous game outcome. A provisional prize value is determined based on a current game outcome. An award is made based on a comparison of the minimum prize value and the provisional prize value. |
| US08616957B2 |
Slot machine game for two players
Disclosed are two-player games, gaming machines, gaming systems and methods including one or more shared feature games. Each player has a respective base game, game board and a token movable on his game board in response to his base game outcomes. Certain combinations of token positions on the two game boards may trigger play of one or more feature games shared by the players. |
| US08616953B2 |
Reel symbol resizing for reel based gaming machines
Gaming machines, systems and methods for sizing or resizing visible reel symbols are disclosed. Gaming machines include an exterior housing, master gaming controller, display device and mechanical or virtual reels. Reels include a plurality of reel stops, each containing a visible reel symbols or a blank or ghost region. Visible reel symbols are expanded into adjacent reel stops, which can be ghosts or blank reel stops, such that blank areas are reduced. A reel configurator sizes or resizes the visible reel symbols, which reel configurator can be located at a remote host or within the gaming machine itself. A remote host can provide downloadable virtual reel strips and visible reel symbols to gaming machines within a system including processor-based machines. Resizing of visible reel symbols can involve stretching the symbols in a direction that extends into one or both reel stops adjacent to the reel stop containing the stretched reel symbol. |
| US08616943B2 |
Passenger air vent
A passenger air vent is provided for a cockpit of a motor vehicle. The passenger air vent includes, but is not limited to a nozzle which has adjustable blades on the air outlet side, a control element for adjusting the blades, a separate bezel for the control element, and the bezel and nozzle are formed as two pieces. |
| US08616942B2 |
Modular bulk coin dispenser with hopper removal from drive and control mechanism
A bulk coin dispenser bin holds nonaligned coin inventory even when removed from a base containing drive mechanisms and control electronics. A rotor assembly at the bin outlet retains coin inventory during separation, with a rotating disk dispensing coins through a discharge slot in a controlled manner. Optional adjustment of the rotor assembly's angular positioning changes the coin size/denomination dispensed by the bin. Uniqueness required to dispense coins of a given size/denomination is embodied in the bin, such that any base may operate with the bin without adjustment other than update of bin denomination in the dispensing system controller. Bin location and the combination of coin denominations dispensed may thus be readily altered within the dispensing system. Optional bin memory and optical level sensing improve inventory management functionality. |
| US08616941B2 |
Pin bone remover
A pin bone removing apparatus for removing pin bones from fish fillets includes a drive train and a rotatable cylinder head coupled to the drive train. The apparatus includes a torque limiter, which for a preset torque value will uncouple the rotatable cylinder head from the drive train. A method is also provided for removing pin bones from fish fillets, by pinching the pin bone in question between a rotating cylinder with recesses and a resilient tongue in contact with the cylinder. During the pinching, the pulling force is applied to the fish pin bone until the force reaches a preset level, at which the pulling is interrupted for a short period of time, unless the pin bone immediately comes loose, and if it does not come loose the pulling force is applied again until it reaches the preset level, and this process is repeated until the bone comes loose. |
| US08616940B2 |
Apparatus and method for cleaning peeling machines
Methods and apparatus for cleaning the peeling section of a roller-type peeling machine. The apparatus includes an x-y robot disposed above the peeling section of the peeling machine. The robot has a cleaning tool, such as a liquid spray nozzle, as an end effector. A controller commands the robot to control the movement of the cleaning tool along a predetermined cleaning path to clean the peeling section. One such cleaning path follows each of the insert rollers in the peeling section of a peeling machine. |
| US08616928B2 |
Terminal fitting and a method for forming a fluid-proof terminated wire assembly
A terminal fitting (10) includes a wire barrel (12) to be crimped and connected to a core (61) at an end portion of a wire (60). An insulation barrel (13) is located behind the wire barrel (12) and is to be crimped and connected to an insulation coating (62) at the end portion of the wire (60). The inner surface of the insulation barrel (13) is formed with a close-contact portion (18) to be held in close contact with the insulation coating (62) and a recessed groove (19) spaced from the insulation coating (62) and extending over the entire circumference. The recessed groove (19) has an opening (21) that is open at the front end of the insulation barrel (13) and a waterproof material (40) flows into the recessed groove (19) through the opening (21). The waterproof material (40) adheres to the outer surface of the core (61). |