Document Document Title
US08624271B2 Light emitting devices
Light emitting devices for light emitting diodes (LEDs) are disclosed. In one embodiment a light emitting device can include a substrate and a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) disposed over the substrate in patterned arrays. The arrays can include one or more patterns of LEDs. A light emitting device can further include a retention material disposed about the array of LEDs. In one aspect, the retention material can be dispensed.
US08624269B2 Radiation-emitting thin-film semiconductor chip and method of producing a radiation-emitting thin film semiconductor chip
A radiation-emitting thin film semiconductor chip is herein described which comprises a first region with a first active zone, a second region, separated laterally from the first region by a space, with a second active zone which extends parallel to the first active zone in a different plane, and a compensating layer, which is located in the second region at the level of the first active zone, the compensating layer not containing any semiconductor material.
US08624261B2 Nitride semiconductor device
According to one embodiment, a nitride semiconductor device includes a first, a second, a third and a fourth transistor of n-type channel and a resistor. The first transistor has a first gate, a first source, and a first drain. The second transistor has a second gate, a second source electrically connected to the first gate, and a second drain. The third transistor has a third gate, a third source electrically connected to the first source, and a third drain electrically connected to the first gate and the second source. The fourth transistor has a fourth gate electrically connected to the third gate, a fourth source electrically connected to the first source and the third source, and a fourth drain electrically connected to the second gate. The resistor has one end electrically connected to the second drain and one other end electrically connected to the second gate and the fourth drain.
US08624258B2 Semiconductor device
Semiconductor elements deteriorate or are destroyed due to electrostatic discharge damage. The present invention provides a semiconductor device in which a protecting means is formed in each pixel. The protecting means is provided with one or a plurality of elements selected from the group consisting of resistor elements, capacitor elements, and rectifying elements. Sudden changes in the electric potential of a source electrode or a drain electrode of a transistor due to electric charge that builds up in a pixel electrode is relieved by disposing the protecting means between the pixel electrode of the light-emitting element and the source electrode or the drain electrode of the transistor. Deterioration or destruction of the semiconductor element due to electrostatic discharge damage is thus prevented.
US08624253B2 Contact structure and semiconductor device
To improve the reliability of contact with an anisotropic conductive film in a semiconductor device such as a liquid crystal display panel, a terminal portion of a connecting wiring on an active matrix substrate is electrically connected to an FPC by an anisotropic conductive film. The connecting wiring is made of a lamination film of a metallic film and a transparent conductive film. In the connecting portion with the anisotropic conductive film, a side surface of the connecting wiring is covered with a protecting film made of an insulating material, thereby exposure to air of the metallic film can be avoided.
US08624251B2 Electronic panel
An electronic panel includes insulation films that cover metal wirings and have plated through holes which expose parts of the respective metal wirings, oxide semiconductor films that electrically conducted with the metal wirings via the plated through holes formed on the insulation films, and an electrical component that includes electrodes which are electrically connected to the oxide semiconductor films. The oxide semiconductor film includes first and second portions in which the widths thereof are different from each other. The width of the first portion is wider than the width of the second portion. A portion faces a part of the metal wiring which is exposed from the plated through hole, and the portion is electrically connected to the part of the metal wiring. At least a part of the second portion faces the electrode of the electrical component and is electrically connected to the electrode.
US08624248B2 Semiconductor device and manufacturing method thereof
By providing appropriate TFT structures arranged in various circuits of the semiconductor device in response to the functions required by the circuits, it is made possible to improve the operating performances and the reliability of a semiconductor device, reduce power consumption as well as realizing reduced manufacturing cost and increase in yield by lessening the number of processing steps. An LDD region of a TFT is formed to have a concentration gradient of an impurity element for controlling conductivity which becomes higher as the distance from a drain region decreases. In order to form such an LDD region having a concentration gradient of an impurity element, the present invention uses a method in which a gate electrode having a taper portion is provided to thereby dope an ionized impurity element for controlling conductivity accelerated in the electric field so that it penetrates through the gate electrode and a gate insulating film into a semiconductor layer.
US08624243B2 Display panel
A display panel includes an insulation substrate having a display area and a peripheral area, wires disposed on the insulation substrate in the display area, first and second testing lines disposed on the insulation substrate and aligned substantially parallel to each other, and a diode unit disposed between the wires and one of the first testing line and the second testing line. The wires extend from the display area into the peripheral area and through diodes included in the diode unit, and the wires are electrically connected to the one of the first testing line and the second testing line.
US08624241B2 Semiconductor chip, stack-type semiconductor package
A semiconductor chip includes: a first substrate having a first surface and a second surface facing away from the first surface; a first test through silicon via (TSV) passing through the first substrate from the first surface to the second surface; and a conductive protrusion coupled to the first test TSV and protruding from the second surface.
US08624240B2 Top gate thin film transistor and display apparatus including the same
Provided is a top gate thin film transistor, including on a substrate: a source electrode layer; a drain electrode layer; an oxide semiconductor layer; a gate insulating layer; a gate electrode layer including an amorphous oxide semiconductor containing at least one kind of element selected from among In, Ga, Zn, and Sn; and a protective layer containing hydrogen, in which: the gate insulating layer is formed on a channel region of the oxide semiconductor layer; the gate electrode layer is formed on the gate insulating layer; and the protective layer is formed on the gate electrode layer.
US08624238B2 Thin-film transistor substrate and method of fabricating the same
A thin-film transistor (TFT) substrate having reduced defects is fabricated using a reduced number of masks. The TFT substrate includes gate wiring formed on a substrate. The gate wiring includes a gate electrode. A semiconductor pattern is formed on the gate wiring. An etch-stop pattern is formed on the semiconductor pattern. Data wiring includes a source electrode which is formed on the semiconductor pattern and the etch-stop pattern. Each of the gate wiring and the data wiring includes a copper-containing layer and a buffer layer formed on or under the copper-containing layer.
US08624235B2 Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing same
A FET is formed on a semiconductor substrate, a curved surface having a radius of curvature is formed on an upper end of an insulation, a portion of a first electrode is exposed corresponding to the curved surface to form an inclined surface, and a region defining a luminescent region is subjected to etching to expose the first electrode. Luminescence emitted from an organic chemical compound layer is reflected by the inclined surface of the first electrode to increase a total quantity of luminescence taken out in a certain direction.
US08624234B2 Light-emitting element, light-emitting device, and electronic device
Disclosed is a light-emitting element with a good carrier balance and manufacturing method thereof which does not require the formation of the heterostructure. The light-emitting element includes an organic compound film containing a first organic compound as the main component (base material) between an anode and a cathode, wherein the organic compound film is provided in contact with the anode and with the cathode. The first organic compound further includes a light-emitting region to which a light-emitting substance is added and includes a hole-transport region to which a hole-trapping substance is added and/or an electron-transport region to which an electron-trapping substance is added. The hole-transport region is located between the light-emitting region and the anode, and the electron-transport region is located between the light-emitting region and the cathode.
US08624232B2 Ambipolar polymeric semiconductor materials and organic electronic devices
There is provided compounds of formula I, ambipolar semiconductor material derived from such compounds and devices comprising such ambipolar semiconductor material. [Da-Acore-Db-Ac-]n  (I)
US08624231B2 Benzopyrene compound and organic light-emitting element containing the same
A benzopyrene compound represented by a general formula [1] below, where one of X1 and X2 represents a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group; another one of X1 and X2 represents a hydrogen atom; R represents an alkyl group; and n represents 0 or 1.
US08624225B2 Methods of forming structures having nanotubes extending between opposing electrodes and structures including same
A semiconductor structure including nanotubes forming an electrical connection between electrodes is disclosed. The semiconductor structure may include an open volume defined by a lower surface of an electrically insulative material and sidewalls of at least a portion of each of a dielectric material and opposing electrodes. The nanotubes may extend between the opposing electrodes, forming a physical and electrical connection therebetween. The nanotubes may be encapsulated within the open volume in the semiconductor structure. A semiconductor structure including nanotubes forming an electrical connection between source and drain regions is also disclosed. The semiconductor structure may include at least one semiconducting carbon nanotube electrically connected to a source and a drain, a dielectric material disposed over the at least one semiconducting carbon nanotube and a gate dielectric overlying a portion of the dielectric material. Methods of forming the semiconductor structures are also disclosed.
US08624214B2 Semiconductor device having a resistance variable element and a manufacturing method thereof
A semiconductor device (100) of the present invention has a structure in which an interlayer insulating layer (115) is formed on an uppermost wire (114), contacts (116, 117) penetrate the interlayer insulating layer (115), a lower electrode (118a) of the resistance variable element is formed on the interlayer insulating layer (115) to cover the contact (116), and resistance variable layer (119) is formed on the interlayer insulating layer (115) to cover the lower electrode (118a) and the contact (117). The contact (116) and the lower electrode (118a) serve as a first terminal, while the contact (117) serves as a second terminal.
US08624212B2 Radiation resistant clothing
A radiation resistant clothing includes a first radiation resistant layer for directly reflecting electromagnetic radiation (EMR) and a second radiation resistant layer for absorbing EMR which penetrates through or under the edges of clothing worn over the human body. The second radiation resistant layer is positioned on an inside of the first radiation resistant layer and has radiation absorbing material which dissipates indirect EMR in the form of heat or other energy.
US08624211B2 Neutron shielding material, method of manufacturing the same, and cask for spent fuel
In one embodiment, a neutron shielding material is formed of boron-adding stainless steel of either austenite-ferrite two-phase stainless steel or ferritic stainless steel, the austenite-ferrite two-phase stainless steel containing, in mass %, B: 0.5% to 2.0%, Ni: 3.0 to 10.0%, and Cr: 21.00 to 32.00%, the ferritic stainless steel containing, in mass %, B: 0.5% to 2.0%, Ni: 4.0% or less, and Cr: 11.00 to 32.00%, and the boron-adding stainless steel being well in ductility and thermal conduction property.
US08624208B2 Extreme ultraviolet light generation system
An extreme ultraviolet light generation system is an extreme ultraviolet light generation system which is used with a laser apparatus and is connected to an external device so as to supply extreme ultraviolet light thereto, and the extreme ultraviolet light generation system may include: a chamber provided with at least one inlet through which a laser beam is introduced thereinto; a target supply unit provided to the chamber for supplying a target material to a predetermined region inside the chamber; a discharge pump connected to the chamber; at least one optical element disposed inside the chamber; an etching gas introduction unit provided to the chamber through which etching gas passes, the etching gas being introduced to etch debris of the target material which is emitted when the target material is irradiated with the laser beam inside the chamber and adheres to the at least one optical element; and at least one temperature control mechanism for controlling a temperature of the at least one optical element.
US08624207B2 Array-type-transducer-based high-power ultrasound delivery system
The present invention is disclosed an array-type-transducer-based high-power ultrasound delivery system which includes a support bracket, an array-type ultrasound transducer, and a plurality of containers. The support bracket includes a plurality of grooves, and the array-type ultrasound transducer includes a clamp and N ultrasound transducers. The clamp includes a plurality of wedges configured for engaging in the grooves of the support bracket and thereby connecting the array-type ultrasound transducer to the support bracket. The containers are arranged in a two-dimensional matrix so that the ultrasound transducers of the array-type ultrasound transducer can dip into and leave the ultrasound-conducting medium in the containers vertically. The disclosed system features high operation speed and low labor requirement. Moreover, the depth by which and the time for which the ultrasound transducers dip into the ultrasound-conducting medium in the containers can be controlled and quantified.
US08624204B2 Serial irradiation of a substrate by multiple radiation sources
A system for configuring and utilizing J electromagnetic radiation sources (J≧2) to serially irradiate a substrate. Each source has a different function of wavelength and angular distribution of emitted radiation. The substrate includes a base layer and I stacks (I≧2; J≦I) thereon. Pj denotes a normally incident energy flux on each stack from source j. In each of I independent exposure steps, the I stacks are concurrently exposed to radiation from the J sources. Vi and Si respectively denote an actual and target energy flux transmitted into the substrate via stack i in exposure step i (i=1, . . . , I). t(i) and Pt(i) are computed such that: Vi is maximal through deployment of source t(i) as compared with deployment of any other source for i=1, . . . , I; and an error E being a function of |V1−S1|, |V2−S2|, . . . , |VI−SI| is about minimized with respect to Pi (i=1, . . . , I).
US08624203B2 Conveyor sterilization
A sterilizing system for sterilizing a continuous loop conveyor belt of a conveyor system is provided. The conveyor system includes a drive operatively connected to the conveyor belt and operative to move the belt between upper and lower flight paths. The upper flight path includes an exposed surface for receiving items. The sterilizing system includes a housing that is configured to at least partially cover the lower flight path. An ultraviolet light source is positioned in the interior of the housing. The light source is operative to emit ultraviolet light on the belt at the lower flight path to sanitize the belt.
US08624201B2 Fluorescence detecting optical system and multi-channel fluorescence detection apparatus having the same
A fluorescence detecting optical system, and a multi-channel fluorescence detection apparatus comprising same, comprising a light source that emits excitation light, a polarizer that transmits light having a predetermined polarization component, a polarizing beam splitter that transmits light having a predetermined polarization component and reflects light having a different polarization component than the predetermined polarization component, and a quarter-wave plate converting linearly polarized to circularly polarized light or vice versa.
US08624198B2 Neutron detection systems with radiation portal monitors
A neutron detection system comprising a radiation portal monitor is disclosed. The radiation portal monitor includes a neutron moderator sheet and a neutron-sensing panel and is configured to receive incoming neutrons through a neutron collection portal area. The neutron-sensing panel comprises a neutron-sensing material optically coupled to a plurality of optical fibers such that the neutron moderator sheet and the neutron-sensing panel are disposed substantially parallel to the neutron collection portal area.
US08624193B2 Timing response improvement in light-sharing detectors
A method for improving timing response in light-sharing scintillation detectors is disclosed. The method includes detecting an event, by a plurality of photo sensors, from a scintillation crystal. The method then includes sampling and digitizing the photo sensor outputs by an analog-to-digital converter. Then the method includes correcting associated timing data, by a processor, for each of the photo sensor outputs based on a lookup table. The method then includes selectively time shifting the photo sensor outputs based on the lookup table to generate corrected photo sensor outputs. The method then includes summing the corrected photo sensor outputs by the processor. The method then includes generating an event time, by the processor, for the detected event based on the sum of the corrected photo sensor outputs.
US08624187B2 Imaging detector array with optical readout
The present invention relates to thermal detectors and the application of such to devices and methods of detecting the infrared images using thermal detectors. For example, by using optical measuring systems in combination with at least one light source to measure changes position of a movable anchored surface coupled to an absorption surface such that the movable anchored surface changes position due to absorption of infrared radiation by the absorption surface. In another example, by combining a detector pixel (infrared radiation sensitive) with an optical measuring device such as an interferometer.
US08624184B1 Methods for spatially resolved alignment of independent spectroscopic data from scanning transmission electron microscopes
Methods for spatially resolved alignment of independent spectroscopic data from scanning transmission electron microscopes (STEMs) are provided. One such method includes performing a first scan of a first area of a first sample using a STEM configured to capture a first signal having a first image profile, performing a second scan of a second area of a second sample using the STEM configured to capture a second signal having a second image profile, selecting a subset region from one of the first and second profiles, correlating the selected subset region from the one of the first and second profiles and the other of the first and second profiles, and selecting, based on the correlating, a portion of the other of the first and second profiles such that the selected subset region and the portion of the other of the first and second profiles are about equal.
US08624182B2 Electro-optical inspection apparatus and method with dust or particle collection function
An electro-optical inspection apparatus prevents adhesion of dust or particles to a sample surface, wherein a stage on which a sample is placed is disposed inside a vacuum chamber that can be evacuated, and a dust collecting electrode is disposed to surround a periphery of the sample. The dust collecting electrode is applied with a voltage having the same polarity as a voltage applied to the sample and an absolute value that is the same or larger than an absolute value of the voltage. Because dust or particles adhere to the dust collecting electrode, adhesion of the dust or particles to the sample surface can be reduced. Instead of using the dust collecting electrode, it is possible to form a recess on a wall of the vacuum chamber, or to dispose on the wall a metal plate having a mesh structure to which a predetermined voltage is applied.
US08624181B1 Controlling ion flux into time-of-flight mass spectrometers
A time-of-flight mass spectrometer (TOF MS) includes an ion gate, an ion guide downstream of the ion gate, and a TOF analyzer downstream of the ion guide. The TOF MS is operated with an adjustable duty cycle to limit the amount of ions entering a TOF analyzer and avoid saturating a detector system of the TOF MS. The duty cycle is adjusted by controlling the ion gate. The ion guide emits ions as a continuous beam, without trapping the ions. The ion guide may be operated as a collision cell. The TOF MS may also include a mass filter upstream of the ion guide.
US08624179B2 Method of charge reduction of electron transfer dissociation product ions
A mass spectrometer is disclosed wherein highly charged fragment ions resulting from Electron Transfer Dissociation fragmentation of parent ions are reduced in charge state within a Proton Transfer Reaction cell 35 by reacting the fragment ions with a neutral superbase reagent gas such as Octahydropyrimidolazepine.
US08624177B2 Refined optical system
Selected scene regions are imaged. IMAGING CHANNEL: mirrors (preferably MEMS) address an imaging sensor to regions. CALIBRATION CHANNEL: the mirrors direct radiation from a source to a calibration sensor, along an imaging-channel segment. Beam splitter(s) let the channels share optical path at the mirrors. To minimize imaging-channel diffractive blur, the calibration channel modifies wavefront angle and smoothness at the mirrors—measuring (and setting mirrors to optimize) PSF sharpness, then applying these measurements (and settings) to optimize imaging-channel settings by iterative multidimensional gradient search. An afocal lens receives scene radiation, magnifying deflection at the scene. An FOR is imaged on the imaging sensor; the mirrors address the sensor to a narrow FOV within the FOR; the lens enlarges deflections to cover the FOR. Plural diffraction-grating orders communicate between calibration source and sensor when the selected region is in plural scene portions, regardless which FOV is addressed.
US08624170B2 Inverter controller and high-frequency dielectric heating apparatus
An inverter controller controls an inverter. The inverter converts direct current into alternating current of a predetermined frequency. The inverter includes a resonance circuit for fluctuating output of a predetermined object to be controlled. The inverter controller comprises an output fluctuating unit which fluctuates output of the inverter in response to an output value of a temperature detection section which detects a temperature of a switching element of the inverter. The inverter controller further comprises an output increase suppressing unit which suppresses an increase in the output of the inverter for a predetermined time after decrease control in the output of the inverter performed by the output fluctuating unit.
US08624168B2 Heating plate with diode planar heater zones for semiconductor processing
A heating plate for a substrate support assembly in a semiconductor plasma processing apparatus, comprises multiple independently controllable planar heater zones arranged in a scalable multiplexing layout, and electronics to independently control and power the planar heater zones. Each planar heater zone uses at least one diode as a heater element. A substrate support assembly in which the heating plate is incorporated includes an electrostatic clamping electrode and a temperature controlled base plate. Methods for manufacturing the heating plate include bonding together ceramic or polymer sheets having planar heater zones, power supply lines, power return lines and vias.
US08624164B2 Shut-off timer for a heating blanket
A blanket for warming patients during surgery and other medical procedures. The blanket includes one or more temperature sensors and a shut-off timer to prevent prolonged exposure of excessive heat to a patient. Embodiments of the present invention provide a safety feature that cuts power to a heating blanket after a certain period of time has elapsed, irrespective of the feedback provided by a temperature sensor concerning the blanket temperature. That period of time is longer than it takes for the blanket to reach its threshold temperature but shorter than it takes to cause thermal burn injury.
US08624158B2 Manipulation apparatus for system that removes material from a surface of a structure
A manipulation system controllably moves a head relative to a surface of an inhabitable structure for irradiating the surface with energy waves from the head. The manipulation system includes a positioning mechanism coupled to the head. The positioning mechanism includes a first-axis position system adapted to move the head along a first direction substantially parallel to the surface. The positioning mechanism further includes a second-axis position system coupled to the first-axis position system and adapted to move the head along a second direction substantially parallel to the surface. The manipulation system further includes an anchoring mechanism coupled to the positioning mechanism and releasably coupled to the structure.
US08624156B2 Manufacturing method of laser processed parts and protective sheet for laser processing
Providing a method of manufacturing a laser processed part by using a protective sheet for laser processing capable of effectively suppressing contamination of surface of workpiece by decomposition product, and processing at high precision, when processing the workpiece by optical absorption ablation of laser beam. It is also an object to present a protective sheet for laser processing for use in the manufacturing method of laser processed part.
US08624148B2 Anti-collision device for plasma vertical cutting gun
An anti-collision device for a plasma vertical cutting gun including a lifting frame of a plasma cutting machine; a connection mechanism; a fixing plate of a cutting gun fixed on the connection mechanism; a concave support plate connected with the lifting frame of the plasma cutting machine; and a proximity switch mounted on the concave support plate. The connection mechanism is mounted between the lifting frame of the plasma cutting machine and the fixing plate of the cutting gun. A contact surface between the connection mechanism and the concave support plate matches. One side of a joint plane between the connection mechanism and the concave support plate is of ferromagnetic materials and the other side is provided with a magnet, thereby attracting each other to realize a magnetic connection. The anti-collision device has comprehensive functions, convenient installation, reasonable structure, and short response time in case of impact.
US08624146B2 Metal-encapsulated, gas-insulated, combined switch disconnector and earthing switch
An exemplary switch having a housing that includes one contact bolt per phase. Each contact bolt moving along a longitudinal axis. In a first position on the axis, the contact bolt connects two active parts to one another. In a second position on the axis, the contact bolt is connected to a fixed earthing contact piece. A drive motor actuates the contact bolts via a drive spindle. The lines of movement of each contact bolt all phases lie in a common plane, wherein each contact bolt is driven by one insulating spindle, which is aligned with the line of movement. The drive spindle lies in the plane of the lines of movement and runs perpendicular to the insulating spindles and is coupled to each insulating spindle via a respective deflecting gear mechanism. The deflecting gear mechanism for the drive of the contact bolts is accommodated in the earthing contact pieces.
US08624141B2 Illuminated button assembly
Illuminated button assemblies are provided that can be secured to a mounting surface by any of a locking member such as a snap tab, a securing member such as a nut, or a combination of both. The securing member is adapted to enclose the locking member when it is fully secured. A variety of illumination assemblies are similarly sized and shaped such that they can be interchanged within the same assembly housing. A switch and the illumination assembly are directly connected to the assembly housing without the need for a lamp holder.
US08624139B2 Key button mechanism and electronic device using same
A key button mechanism includes a retaining board, a sliding board, a key button and a stopping member. The sliding board is slidably mounted to the retaining board. The sliding board is capable of sliding between a first configuration and a second configuration. The key button is fixed to the sliding board so the key button can be slid relative to the retaining board. The stopping member is located between the retaining board and the sliding board. The stopping member, which can be overcome with fingernail pressure, holds the sliding board in either the first configuration or the second configuration.
US08624137B2 Device with a micro electromechanical structure
A device has a micro electromechanical structure (10) with a first arm (102), at least one second arm (104a, b) connected to each other via a connection (100). Both arms (102, 104a, b) and the connection (100) are preferably made of a single crystalline body. The first and second arm (102, 104a, b) have end portions attached to a substrate, but otherwise the arms and their connection are free to move relative to the substrate. The first and second arm (102, 104a, b) extending from the end portions to the connection (100) along different directions, preferably perpendicularly to each other. An electrode (12) is provided on the substrate, adjacent to the micro electromechanical structure (10) to excite vibration of the structure. The two arms in different directions make it possible to reduce the nonlinearity of the stiffness during vibrations of the structure.
US08624135B2 Switch unit
A switch unit for detecting movement of a target object in a first direction and in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction includes a first movable body arranged to move in the first direction together with the movement of the target object in the first direction, a first substrate provided with a first detecting unit for detecting a position of the first movable body in the first direction, a second movable body arranged to move in the second direction together with the movement of the target object in the second direction, and a second substrate provided with a second detecting unit for detecting a position of the second movable body in the second direction.
US08624131B2 Chip-on-film panel structure
The present invention relates to a chip-on-film panel structure, which has a panel body and fan-out leads, first metal sheets, array leads and second metal leads thereon. The array leads are disposed at two sides of the fan-out leads, the second metal sheets are disposed at two sides of the first metal sheets, and the length of each of the second metal sheet is less than the length of each of the first metal sheet to form a lead-out area that the array leads are led out from the second metal sheets via the lead-out area. The chip-on-film panel structure having an arranged fan-out area for array leads can settle the problem of being difficult to narrow the frame of the panel because the array leads occupy available room for fan-out leads and force the fan-out area to expand longitudinally.
US08624129B2 Method of attaching a high power surface mount transistor to a printed circuit board
A power device that includes a printed circuit board having one or more dielectric and copper layers between a top and a bottom metal layer. The power device includes an area extending through all metal and dielectric layers of the printed circuit board except the bottom metal layer. A semiconductor device is positioned within the area and mounted to the bottom metal layer of the printed circuit board.
US08624127B2 Wiring board and method for manufacturing the same
A wiring board includes a substrate having first and second surfaces and a first penetrating hole through the substrate, a first conductive circuit on the first surface of the substrate, a second conductive circuit on the second surface of the substrate, an interlayer insulation layer on the substrate and the first or second circuit, and a third conductive circuit on the interlayer layer. The interlayer layer has a via conductor in the interlayer layer and connecting the third circuit and the second conductor. The substrate has a first through-hole conductor connecting the first and second circuits and on the inner wall of the first hole, a filler filled inside the first conductor and forming a second penetrating hole, and a second through-hole conductor in the second hole. The via conductor is shifted from the center of the second conductor in the direction parallel to the first surface of the substrate.
US08624122B2 Circuit board structure having measures against heat
To achieve efficient heat spreading and heat releasing by using a metal core of a circuit board, a terminal block includes an insulating block body and terminals. At least one of the terminals is provided with terminal portions for a connection with a circuit board. The terminal portions are inserted into respective through holes of the circuit board, the circuit board having a pattern circuit at a surface layer thereof and a conductive metal core at an intermediate portion in a thickness direction, so that heat of the metal core or of both the metal core and the pattern circuit is absorbed and transferred to the terminals. A bus-bar block includes an insulating block body and several parallel bus-bars with different lengths. Terminal portions at a tip end of the bus-bars are inserted, near heat-generating component on the circuit board, into the through holes of the circuit board.
US08624114B2 Wiring harness
A buffering part 34 is formed by turning an end side of a wiring harness 30 in a U-shape, and by detachably holding a neighbor of an end of the wiring harness 32 with a retainer 29 of a protector 24 disposed on a middle of the wiring harness 33. A circular portion of the buffering part 34 can work as a buffer. The buffer performance of the buffering part 34 depends on flexibility and resiliency of a corrugate tube 25 and on a circular shape formed between a holding position of the retainer 29 and the neighbor of the end of the wiring harness 32.
US08624113B2 Device housing and manufacturing method
A housing includes a transparent panel and a housing body. The housing body includes a main body and a flange portion extending from the main body. The filler is formed between the transparent panel and the housing body. The filler includes a first connecting portion, a second connecting portion, and a support portion integrally formed together, the first connecting portion connecting the transparent panel to the flange portion, the support portion supporting the transparent panel, and the second connecting portion connected to the housing body.
US08624109B2 Termination unit
This invention relates to a termination unit comprising an end-section of a cable. The end section of the cable defines a central longitudinal axis and comprising end-parts of N electrical phases, an end-part of a neutral conductor and a surrounding thermally insulation envelope adapted to comprising a cooling fluid. The end-parts of the N electrical phases and the end-part of the neutral conductor each comprising at least one electrical conductor and being arranged in the cable concentrically around a core former with a phase 1 located relatively innermost, and phase N relatively outermost in the cable, phase N being surrounded by the neutral conductor, electrical insulation being arranged between neighboring electrical phases and between phase N and the neutral conductor, and wherein the end-parts of the neutral conductor and the electrical phases each comprise a contacting surface electrically connected to at least one branch current lead to provide an electrical connection: The contacting surfaces each having a longitudinal extension, and being located sequentially along the longitudinal extension of the end-section of the cable. The branch current leads being individually insulated from said thermally insulation envelope by individual electrical insulators.
US08624108B1 Photovoltaic cells based on nano or micro-scale structures
Novel structures of photovoltaic cells (also treated as solar cells) are provided. The cells are based on nanometer-scaled wires, tubes, and/or rods, which are made of electronic materials covering semiconductors, insulators or metallic in structure. These photovoltaic cells have large power generation capability per unit physical area over the conventional cells. These cells will have enormous applications in space, commercial, residential, and industrial applications.
US08624107B2 Photovoltaic cells based on nanoscale structures
Novel structures of photovoltaic cells (also known as solar cells) are provided. The Cells are based on the nanometer-scaled wire, tubes, and/or rods, which are made of the electronics materials covering semiconductors, insulator or metallic in structure. These photovoltaic cells have large power generation capability per unit physical area over the conventional cells. These cells can have also high radiation tolerant capability. These cells will have enormous applications such as in space, in commercial, residential and industrial applications.
US08624106B2 Electrode for dye sensitized solar cell, method of manufacturing the same, and dye sensitized solar cell using the electrode
An electrode for a dye sensitized solar cell, the electrode including platinum having a controlled surface roughness and a specific surface area of platinum, a method of manufacturing the electrode, and a dye sensitized solar cell having excellent photoelectric conversion efficiency by including the electrode.
US08624099B2 Musical effects foot control
A foot control for control of musical effects from a musical instrument, the instrument having an electrical signal output operable to send signals to a speaker system, the control having a housing with at least one side wall; a roller rotatably mounted in the housing, a roller surface portion exposed and extending away from the housing for contact by a foot, to enable rotation of the roller by the foot; and, circuitry within the base connectable with the instrument and operable in response to rotation of the roller, to vary signals from the instrument.
US08624098B2 Media playback queuing for playback management
Management or coordination of playback of digital media assets by an electronic device (e.g., a computing device), that supports media playback is disclosed. According to one embodiment, the electronic device can be controlled such that a user is able to schedule playback of distinct digital media assets.
US08624094B2 Plants and seeds of corn variety CV912719
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV912719. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV912719, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV912719 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 CV912719 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 CV912719.
US08624088B1 Soybean variety 95R51
A novel soybean variety, designated 95R51 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety 95R51, cells from soybean variety 95R51, plants of soybean 95R51, and plant parts of soybean variety 95R51. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety 95R51 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety 95R51, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety 95R51, and methods of characterizing soybean variety 95R51. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety 95R51 are further provided.
US08624084B2 Pericycle-specific expression of microrna 167 in plants
Provided herein are compositions and methods for producing transgenic plants. In specific embodiments, transgenic plants comprise a construct comprising a polynucleotide encoding microRNA167 (miR167), or precursor thereof, operably linked to a plant pericycle-specific promote, wherein the miR167 is ectopically overexpressed in the transgenic plants, and wherein the promoter is optionally a constitutive or inducible promoter. In some embodiments, the transgenic plant has an improved agronomic or nutritional characteristic when cultivated in nitrogen-rich conditions as compared to a wild type plant cultivated in the same conditions. Also provided herein are commercial products (e.g., pulp, paper, paper products, or lumber) derived from the transgenic plants (e.g., transgenic trees) produced using the methods provided herein.
US08624079B2 Knockin mouse with a disruption in a PXR gene expressing human PXR
The present invention relates to transgenic non-human animals, tissues or cells derived therefrom and methods of producing them. The transgenic non-human animals or tissues or cells derived therefrom provide a system capable of expressing human proteins responsible for drug metabolism in place of the homologous endogenous non-human animal proteins and for the controlled expression of human genes introduced into the animal so that the expression of the human genes is regulated in a manner more closely analogous to that seen in vivo in humans. One aspect of the invention relates to the use of a human DNA sequence comprising at least part of introns 6 and/or 7 of the human PXR gene.
US08624076B2 Dressing and an epidermal positioning mechanism and method for using same
A method for using a dressing mechanism on an epidermis. The dressing mechanism includes a first section, a second section, and a third section and the first section and the third section comprise an elastic material and include a first side having an adhesive located thereon. The second section is a laminated material.
US08624075B2 Isomerization of linear alpha-olefins
Process for isomerizing linear alpha-olefins having from 10 to 25 carbon atoms over a heterogeneous catalyst.
US08624072B2 Chemical reactors with annularly positioned delivery and removal devices, and associated systems and methods
Chemical reactors with annularly positioned delivery and removal devices, and associated systems and methods. A reactor in accordance with a particular embodiment includes a reactor vessel having a light-transmissible surface proximate to a reaction zone, and a movable reactant delivery system positioned within the reactor vessel. The reactor can further include a product removal system positioned within the reactor vessel and positioned annularly inwardly or outwardly from the delivery system. A solar concentrator is positioned to direct solar radiation through the light-transmissible surface to the reaction zone.
US08624070B2 Phosphorus recovery from hydrothermal treatment of biomass
Biomass based feeds are processed under hydrothermal treatment conditions to produce a hydrocarbon liquid product and a solids portion. The solids portion can contain a portion of the phosphorus from the biomass feed. The amount of phosphorus in the solids portion can be increased for some biomass feeds by adding a multivalent metal to the feed. The phosphorus from the solids portion can be recycled for further use, such as for growth of additional biomass.
US08624066B2 Process for preparing methylmercaptopropionaldehyde
A process for preparing methylmercaptopropionaldehyde in a single reaction unit, is provided. According to the preferred embodiment, the process comprises, simultaneously contacting a gaseous mixture comprising acrolein with a liquid mixture comprising methylmercaptopropionaldehyde, methyl mercaptan, a catalyst and methylmercaptopropionaldehyde methyl thiohemiacetal in the reactive absorber; absorbing the acrolein from the gaseous mixture into the liquid mixture; reacting the absorbed acrolein with the methyl mercaptan or the methylmercaptopropionaldehyde methyl thiohemiacetal to obtain methylmercapto-propionaldehyde; removing gaseous impurities and by-products from the liquid mixture; and separating the obtained methylmercaptopropionaldehyde product from the reactive absorber, directing a portion of the separated product to storage or further processing and recycling the remaining portion to the reactive absorber; wherein the methyl mercaptan optionally comprises dimethyl sulfide or dimethyl ether.
US08624065B2 Methods for producing oxidized cyclic phenol sulfides
A method for producing an oxidized cyclic phenol sulfide which comprises the step of oxidizing a cyclic phenol sulfide of the following formula (1) as a raw material: wherein R represents a straight or branched alkyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, and m is an integer from 4 to 8, in a solvent(s) other than a halogenated hydrocarbon in an amount of 2 or more and less than 10 parts by weight per 1 part by weight of the cyclic phenol sulfide, with an oxidizing agent(s) to obtain an oxidized cyclic phenol sulfide of the following formula (2): wherein R represents a straight or branched alkyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, m is an integer from 4 to 8, and n is 1 or 2.
US08624060B2 Process for preparing fluorocarboxylic acid
A process for preparing a fluorocarboxylic acid, which includes a dehydration step of removing from a mixture containing a fluorocarboxylic acid and water at least a part of the water to obtain a dehydrated fluorocarboxylic acid solution, and a purification step of purifying the dehydrated fluorocarboxylic acid solution.
US08624059B2 Processes for producing monoammonium succinate from fermentation broths containing diammonium succinate, monoammonium succinate and/or succinic acid, and conversion of monoammonium succinate to succinic acid
Processes for making monoammonium succinate (MAS) and/or succinic acid (SA) from either a clarified diammonium succinate (DAS)-containing fermentation broth or a clarified MAS-containing fermentation broth include (a) distilling the broth to form an overhead that includes water and optionally ammonia and a liquid bottoms that includes MAS or SA; (b) cooling and/or evaporating the bottoms and optionally adding an antisolvent to the bottoms to attain a temperature and composition sufficient to cause the bottoms to produce a solid portion that contains MAS or SA in contact with a liquid portion; (c) separating the solid portion from the liquid portion; and (d) recovering the solid portion.
US08624055B2 Process and catalyst for oxidizing aromatic compounds
Catalytic compositions for conversion of substituted aromatic feed materials to oxidized products comprising aromatic carboxylic acid derivatives of the substituted aromatic feed materials comprise solid particles comprising palladium in combination with at least one of antimony, bismuth and gold, and optionally, an additional metal or metalloid component effective to promote activity or selectivity of the palladium and antimony, bismuth or gold for oxidation to aromatic carboxylic acids. A process for oxidizing substituted aromatic feed materials comprises contacting the feed material with oxygen in the presence of such catalytic compositions in a liquid reaction mixture.
US08624054B2 Carbonylation process for the production of methyl acetate
A process for the production of methyl acetate by reacting dimethyl ether with carbon monoxide into a carbonylation reactor containing a mordenite catalyst in the presence of added methyl acetate and/or acetic acid.
US08624051B2 Process for the preparation of isoserine derivatives
This invention relates to a “one pot” process for the preparation of isoserine derivatives in high diastereoselective way. The process according to the invention includes the steps of reacting a protected glycidic acid with imines to yield isoserines protected both at the —OH and at the —COOH groups, deprotection of the obtained intermediates to isoserines or isoserine 1-4C— alkyl esters. Pure threo derivatives as the main isomer are obtained.
US08624049B2 Dopant group-substituted semiconductor precursor compounds, compositions containing the same, and methods of making such compounds and compositions
Dopant-group substituted (cyclo)silane compounds, liquid-phase compositions containing such compounds, and methods for making the same. Such compounds (and/or ink compositions containing the same) are useful for printing or spin coating a doped silane film onto a substrate that can easily be converted into a doped amorphous or polycrystalline silicon film suitable for electronic devices. Thus, the present invention advantageously provides commercial qualities and quantities of doped semiconductor films from a doped “liquid silicon” composition.
US08624048B2 Method of producing alkyl esters from vegetable or animal oil and an aliphatic monoalcohol with fixed-bed hot purification
The present invention relates to a method of producing alkyl esters and glycerin from a crude or semi-refined vegetable oil and an aliphatic monoalcohol, comprising a deep pretreatment purification stage to eliminate the species based on phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, zinc or iron, insoluble under the temperature conditions of the heterogeneous catalytic reactor.
US08624045B2 Process for olefin oxide production
A process for the epoxidation of an olefin is disclosed which includes: reacting a feed gas composition containing an olefin, oxygen, and a moderator selected from the group consisting of diatomic chlorine and perhalogenated hydrocarbons, in the presence of an epoxidation catalyst.
US08624042B2 Process for dimerization of ethylene to but-1-ene using a composition comprising a titanium-based complex and an alkoxy ligand functionalized by a heteroatom
The invention describes a process for the selective dimerization of ethylene to but-1-ene using a catalytic composition comprising at least one organometallic titanium complex, said organometallic complex containing at least one alkoxy type ligand functionalized by a heteroatom selected from nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, sulphur, arsenic and antimony or by an aromatic group.
US08624041B2 Process for the preparation of strontium ranelate
A process for the preparation of strontium ranelate or a hydrate thereof is provided comprising (a) reacting a tetraester compound of Formula II: wherein R, R1, R2, and R3 are independently a linear or branched C1-C6 alkyl group or a substituted or unsubstituted C3-C12 cyclic group, in the presence of a lithium base and in a solvent with an inorganic acid salt of strontium.
US08624039B2 Method for preparing [18F]fallypride with low base concentration
A method for preparing [18F]fallypride is disclosed, which comprises a first step for trapping a fluorine-18 to a polymer ion exchange cartridge; a second step for extraction of fluorine-18 by inputting low base concentrations: 5.0˜25 μL of 40% TBAHCO3 or K2.2.2./K2CO3 (5˜25 mg/0.5˜3.0 mg) as a phase-transfer catalyst in a mixture of alcohol/water (1.0/0.2 (v/v)) or alcohol as a solvent into the polymer ion exchange cartridge trapped by the fluorine-18; a third step for preparing a [18F]fallypride product by removing the solvent from the trapped fluorine-18, by inputting tosylate precursor in CH3CN as a solvent into a reactor and by reacting the same for 5˜35 minutes at 50˜120° C.; and a fourth step for preparing a pure [18F]fallypride by purifying the prepared [18F]fallypride product.
US08624038B2 Pyrrolidine-2,5-dione derivatives for use in friction modification
The present disclosure relates to a compound of the formula I or a tribologically acceptable salt, solvate, hydrate, or proadditive thereof, wherein R1, R2 and R4 are as defined herein. Such novel pyrrolidine, or succinimide, derivatives may be useful as friction modifiers in lubricant compositions. This disclosure also relates to a method of using such friction modifier compounds in lubricating fluid formulations to lubricate machine parts, including gear, axle, engine, and transmission parts, and to lubricant compositions containing such friction modifier compounds.
US08624034B2 Fluoro-pyridinone derivatives useful as antibacterial agents
The present invention is directed to a new class of hydroxamic acid derivatives, their use as LpxC inhibitors and, more specifically, their use to treat bacterial infections.
US08624033B2 Pleuromutilins and process for the preparation of pleuromutilins
A process for the preparation of 14-O—[(N-(3-methyl-2-amino-butyryl-piperidinyl)sulfanyl)acetyl]mutilins of formula feasible for large-scale production of high purity products, and wherein the carbon atom at the piperidine ring attached to the sulphur atom is either in the (S)-configuration or in the (R)-configuration, and a new crystalline form of 14-O—[(N-3-methyl-2-(R)-amino-butyryl-piperidine-3(S)-yl)sulfanyl)acetyl]mutilin-hydrochloride.
US08624023B2 Synthesis of carbamoylpyridone HIV integrase inhibitors and intermediates
A synthesis approach providing an early ring attachment via a bromination to compound I-I yielding compound II-II: whereby a final product such as AA: can be synthesized. In particular, the 2,4-difluorophenyl-containing sidechain is attached before creation of the additional ring Q.
US08624015B2 Probe set and method for identifying HLA allele
Provided is a probe set that is useful for identifying each allele of HLA individually, and a method of identification of an allele of HLA by the use thereof for each type.The probe set is composed of probes that cover all of the partial sequences that contain a unique base to each allele. Using this probe set HLA contained in a specimen is identified.
US08624011B2 Vaccines and immunotherapeutics comprising IL-15 receptor alpha and/or nucleic acid molecules encoding the same, and methods for using the same
Compositions, recombinant vaccines and live attenuated pathogens comprising one or more isolated nucleic acid molecules that encode an immunogen in combination with an isolated nucleic acid molecule that encodes IL-15Ra or a functional fragment thereof are disclosed. Methods of inducing an immune response in an individual against an immunogen, using such compositions are disclosed.
US08624010B1 Nucleic acids encoding B7RP1
Polypeptides comprising ligands and receptors involved in T-cell activation are disclosed. Nucleic acid molecules that encode such polypeptides, and vectors and host cells for expressing polypeptides are also disclosed. In certain embodiments, the polypeptides, agonists thereof, and antagonists thereof may be used to treat T-cell mediated disorders.
US08624005B2 Method of protein refolding with ion exchange resins and the application of the same
A method for protein refolding with an ion exchange resin. The method includes (a) choosing an ion exchange resin that having charged groups with the same sign as a net charge of a denatured protein to be refolded; (b) removing heterogeneous ions from the ion exchange resin by washing the ion exchange resin sequentially with saline solution and deionized water, to prepare the ion exchange resin; (c) mixing the ion exchange resin with a refolding buffer thoroughly, then adding the denatured protein to the refolding buffer and allowing the denatured protein to refold; and then (d) collecting the supernatant by centrifugation or settlement, to obtain a solution containing the refolded protein.
US08624002B2 Prostaglandin E2 binding proteins and uses thereof
The present invention encompasses prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) binding proteins. The invention relates to antibodies that are wild-type, chimeric, CDR grafted and humanized. Preferred antibodies have high affinity for prostaglandin E2 and neutralize prostaglandin E2 activity in vitro and in vivo. An antibody of the invention can be a full-length antibody, or an antigen-binding portion thereof. Methods of making and methods of using the antibodies of the invention are also provided. The antibodies, or antigen-binding portions, of the invention are useful for detecting prostaglandin E2 and for inhibiting prostaglandin E2 activity, e.g., in a human subject suffering from a disorder in which prostaglandin E2 activity is detrimental.
US08624001B1 Anti-CD19 antibodies
The present invention provides humanized, chimeric and human anti-CD19 antibodies, anti-CD19 antibody fusion proteins, and fragments thereof that bind to a human B cell marker. Such antibodies, fusion proteins and fragments thereof are useful for the treatment and diagnosis of various B-cell disorders, including B-cell malignancies and autoimmune diseases. In more particular embodiments, the humanized anti-CD 19 antibodies may comprise one or more framework region amino acid substitutions designed to improve protein stability, antibody binding and/or expression levels. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the substitutions comprise a Ser91Phe substitution in the hAl9 VH sequence.
US08623997B2 Variant Hhip1 protein and methods and uses thereof
The present invention is directed to derivatives of Hhip1 and methods of using the same for treatment and diagnosis of cancer in mammals.
US08623996B2 Cold active enzyme and method thereof
The objective of the present invention is to obtain a low temperature producing enzyme and more particularly, the enzyme provides a bifunctional purpose of varying its enzyme activity into activity of another enzyme. The present invention has overcome problems such as ability of obtaining an enzyme at low temperature.
US08623994B2 Method for producing water absorbent resin
With regard to a method for producing a water absorbent resin by drying a particulate hydrogel crosslinked polymer having a high solid content concentration (of 45% by weight or more, further 50% by weight or more, and particularly 55% by weight or more), to provide a method for efficient drying of a water absorbent resin having maintained/improved physical properties.A production method in which a through-circulation belt type dryer or a through-circulation stationary batch type dryer is used in the drying step and the drop and scatter ratio of a particulate hydrogel crosslinked polymer is set to 1% by weight or less.
US08623989B1 Polyurea/polythiourea coatings
Polyurea/polythiourea compositions comprising the reaction product of a first component comprising isocyanate and a second component comprising an amine, wherein the first component further comprises an isocyanate functional polythioether-polyurethane and/or polythiourethane, and/or the second component further comprises an amine/hydroxy functional polythioether, are disclosed. Methods for using the coating, and substrates coated therewith, are also disclosed.
US08623985B2 Silicone composition which is cross-linkable by dehydrogenative condensation in the presence of a metal catalyst
A silicone composition is described that includes components having SiH/SiOH groupings and that can be polymerized/cross-linked by a dehydrogenative condensation reaction in the presence of a zinc catalyst and requiring a low activation temperature.
US08623974B2 Branched vinyl terminated polymers and methods for production thereof
This invention relates to a process for polymerization, comprising (i) contacting, at a temperature greater than 35° C., one or more monomers comprising ethylene and/or propylene, with a catalyst system comprising a metallocene catalyst compound and an activator, (ii) converting at least 50 mol % of the monomer to polyolefin; and (iii) obtaining a branched polyolefin having greater than 50% allyl chain ends, relative to total unsaturated chain ends. The invention also relates to the branched polyolefins and functionalized branched polyolefins.
US08623973B1 Activator supports impregnated with group VIII transition metals for polymer property control
Methods for controlling properties of an olefin polymer using a Group VIII transition metal-modified activator-support are disclosed. The melt index of the polymer can be decreased and the molecular weight of the polymer can be increased via the addition of the transition metal-modified activator-support to the polymerization reactor system.
US08623961B2 Optical acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive composition and optical acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive tape
The present invention relates to an optical acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive composition, containing: 100 parts by mass of an acrylic polymer (A) which contains a vinylic monomer having a nitrogen atom in a skeleton thereof as a monomer unit and does not substantially contain a monomer containing a carboxyl group; 1-70 parts by mass of a (meth)acrylic polymer (B) having a weight average molecular weight of 1,000 or greater and less than 30,000; and 1-50 parts by mass of a hydrogenated tackifying resin (C), and an optical acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive tape including a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer containing the optical acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive composition.
US08623960B2 Resin composition for optical film, and polarizer protective film and liquid crystal display including the same
Provided are a resin composition including an acryl-based copolymer resin including an alkyl(meth)acrylate-based monomer and an imide-based monomer, additionally copolymerizable with a styrene-based monomer, and a polycarbonate-based resin having a melt index (MI) of 30 g/10 min or more under conditions of a load of 1.2 kg and a temperature of 300° C., a polarizer protective film including the resin composition, and a liquid crystal display including the polarizer protective film. The polarizer protective film according to the present invention has excellent heat resistance, transparency, and optical properties.
US08623959B2 Non-veining urethane resins for foundry sand casting
Described herein a method of manufacturing a metal shape that includes contacting a liquid metal and a surface of a foundry core under conditions wherein vein defects occur, the surface of the foundry core comprising a foundry aggregate, a combustible-organic material and a polyurethane resin, and the surface of the foundry core being free of or essentially free of an anti-veining agent; cooling the liquid metal to a temperature below its melting point thereby forming a metal shape; and then removing the foundry core from the metal shape.
US08623958B2 Oil-in-water silicone emulsion composition
An oil-in-water silicone emulsion composition comprising (A) 100 mass parts of a polyorganosiloxane that contains in each molecule at least two silicon-bonded hydroxyl or hydrolyzable groups, (B) 0.1 to 200 mass parts of a colloidal silica, (C) 1 to 100 mass parts of an ionic emulsifying agent, (D) 0.1 to 50 mass parts of a polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene copolymer-type nonionic emulsifying agent, and (E) 10 to 200 mass parts water. Such oil-in-water silicone emulsion composition exhibits an excellent storage stability, contains little low molecular weight silicone, and can form, even without the use of a tin catalyst, a cured film that exhibits a satisfactory elasticity, through the removal of the water fraction.
US08623943B2 Hydroxypolyamide gel forming agents
Hydroxypolyamides, hydroxypolyamide products, and post-hydroxypolyamides are disclosed as gel forming agents. Hydroxypolyamides and post-hydroxypolyamides are prepared from known methods. Hydroxypolyamide products are produced from a modified polymerization procedure which utilizes strong base for deprotonation of ammonium salts from the esterification of stoichiometrically equivalent polyacid:polyamine salts. The hydroxypolyamide products are capable of gel formation at lower concentrations than hydroxypolyamides and post-hydroxypolyamides from the known methods of preparation, and are therefore superior gel forming agents.
US08623941B2 Method of forming nanodielectrics
A method of making a nanoparticle filled dielectric material. The method includes mixing nanoparticle precursors with a polymer material and reacting the nanoparticle precursors mixed with the polymer material to form nanoparticles dispersed within the polymer material to form a dielectric composite.
US08623935B2 Antimicrobial compositions
Antimicrobial compositions are provided that include a hydroalcoholic solvent system comprising a lower C2-C5 alcohol and water; a cationic antimicrobial agent such as chlorhexidine gluconate; a hydrophobic polymer soluble in the lower alcohol; an emollient ester such as diesters of bibasic acids and triesters of citric acid; and an optional fatty component containing at least one free hydroxyl group, such as a C12-C21 fatty alcohol, a C12-C21 fatty ester, a C12-C21 fatty ether, a C12-C21 fatty amide, and combinations thereof. The compositions described herein display improved antimicrobial efficacy and improved cosmetic elegance.
US08623933B2 Process for producing polyether polyol and process for producing rigid foamed synthetic resin using same
A process for producing a polyether polyol which can form low viscosity rigid foamed synthetic resins excellent in strength, dimensional stability and flame retardancy, can give a low viscosity polyol system solution containing water instead of HFCs as a blowing agent with good miscibility with isocyanate compounds and can form good rigid foamed synthetic resins by spraying, which polyether polyol is produced by reacting a phenol component (molar ratio 1) selected from phenol and phenol derivatives having a hydrogen atom at one or more ortho-positions to the phenolic hydroxyl group, an aldehyde component (molar ratio 0.3 to 0.9) selected from formaldehyde and acetoaldehyde and an alkanolamine component (molar ratio 1.5 to 3.5) selected from monoethanolamine, diethanolamine and 1-amino-2-propanol and then adding an alkylene oxide to the resulting reaction product.
US08623930B2 Thermoplastic resin foam, method of producing the same, and light reflecting material thereof
{Problems}The present invention is contemplated for providing a thermoplastic resin foam and a light reflecting material having a high reflectivity when being made thin, as well as a method of producing the thermoplastic resin foam.{Means to Solve}A thermoplastic resin foam, prepared by using a thermoplastic resin composition containing a melt-type crystallization nucleating agent (B) in a crystalline thermoplastic resin (A), which foam comprises a bubble having a mean bubble diameter of less than 1 μm in the inside thereof.
US08623923B2 Process for the preparation of ajoene
A process for the preparation of ajoene, and of ajoene having a relatively high purity which may be obtained by the process. This invention also relates to processes for the preparation of allicin, and to a process for freeze concentrating allicin.
US08623922B2 Bronchodilating Beta-agonist compositions and methods
Bronchodilating compositions and methods are provided. The compositions are intended for administration as a nebulized aerosol. In certain embodiments, the compositions contain formoterol, or a derivative thereof. Methods for treatment, prevention, or amelioration of one or more symptoms of bronchoconstrictive disorders using the compositions provided herein are also provided.
US08623915B2 Cycloalkyl-hydroxyl compounds and compositions for cholesterol management and related uses
The present invention relates to novel cycloalkyl-hydroxyl compounds, compositions comprising hydroxyl compounds, and methods useful for treating and preventing a variety of diseases and conditions such as, but not limited to aging, Alzheimer's Disease, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetic nephropathy, diabetic retinopathy, a disorder of glucose metabolism, dyslipidemia, dyslipoproteinemia, hypertension, impotence, inflammation, insulin resistance, lipid elimination in bile, obesity, oxysterol elimination in bile, pancreatitis, Parkinson's disease, a peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-associated disorder, phospholipid elimination in bile, renal disease, septicemia, Syndrome X, thrombotic disorder. Compounds and methods of the invention can also be used to modulate C reactive protein or enhance bile production in a patient. In certain embodiments, the compounds, compositions, and methods of the invention are useful in combination therapy with other therapeutics, such as hypocholesterolemic and hypoglycemic agents.
US08623914B2 Medical composition
The object of the invention is to find the actions of the crude drugs contained in Daikenchuto or their components and the synergistic effect of the components with one another or with other pharmacologically active substances, and to provide new drugs or pharmaceutical compositions based on the findings. The invention is directed to intestinal peristaltic motility-enhancers comprising an effective amount of hydroxy-α-sanshool or a plant containing the same or an extract thereof; compositions comprising a combination of hydroxy-α-sanshool or a plant containing the same or an extract thereof and capsaicin or a plant containing the same or an extract thereof or bethanechol or a salt thereof; as well as a method for improving intestinal motility which comprises administering the composition to a patient.
US08623911B2 Boron-containing small molecules as anti-protozoal agent
This invention provides, among other things, novel compounds useful for treating protozoal infections, pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds, as well as combinations of these compounds with at least one additional therapeutically effective agent.
US08623910B2 Isoflavones for treating mucopolysaccharidoses
A method of treatment of mucopolysaccharidosis, the method including administering to a patient in the need of such treatment—a therapeutically effective amount of a natural isoflavone of formula (I), a derivative thereof, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. A pharmaceutical composition including a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient; and a natural isoflavone of formula (I), a derivative thereof, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, the natural isoflavone, the derivative thereof, or the pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof being in a therapeutically effective amount for the treatment of mucopolysaccharidosis.
US08623909B2 Prophylactic/therapeutic agents for lifestyle-related diseases
Disclosed is a method for screening a compound having an activity that selectively modulates an androgen receptor, comprising a step of measuring the mRNA expression level of prostate-specific antigen or the production level of prostate-specific antigen in prostate cancer cells by contacting a test substance with the prostate cancer cells, and a step of measuring the mRNA expression level of uncoupling protein 1 or the production level of uncoupling protein 1 in adipocytes by contacting a test substance with the adipocytes. Additionally disclosed is a selective androgen receptor modulator, comprising as an active ingredient thereof a compound represented by any of structural formulas (I) to (III), and a composition for preventing or treating a lifestyle-related disease, comprising as an active ingredient thereof said selective androgen receptor modulator.
US08623908B2 Use of tellurium compounds for inhibition of interleukin-converting enzyme
Use of tellurium-containing compounds for treating conditions in which inhibition of caspase-1/interleuFkin-1β enzyme (ICE) is beneficial is disclosed.
US08623904B2 Use of tetramic acid derivatives for controlling pests by watering or droplet application
Compounds of the formulae (I) and (II) for controlling pathogens by drenching or drip application.
US08623903B2 Indolecarboxylic acid derivative having PGD2 receptor antagonistic activity
The present invention provides an indolecarboxylic acid derivative having DP receptor antagonistic activity and a pharmaceutical composition comprising the said compound as an active ingredient, and further a therapeutic agent for treating allergic diseases.A compound of the general formula (I): wherein the ring A is an aromatic carbocyclic ring etc.; the ring B is a nitrogen-containing non-aromatic heterocyclic ring etc.; the formula of —X1═X2—X3═X4— is a formula of —C(R1)═C(R2)—C(R3)═C(R4)— etc.; X5 is C(R5) or N; R1, R2, R3, R4 and R5 is independently a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom etc; R6 is a formula of —Z—R10 etc. wherein Z is alkylene etc., and R10 is carboxy etc.; R7 is optionally substituted alkyloxy etc.; R8 is independently a halogen atom etc.; R9 is independently optionally substituted alkyl etc.; Y is a single bond etc.; n is 0 etc.; q is 0 etc.; a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or a solvate thereof.
US08623899B2 Bis-benzimidazole derivatives as hepatitis C virus inhibitors
Inhibitors of HCV replication of formula I including stereochemically isomeric forms, and salts, hydrates, solvates thereof, wherein R and R′ have the meaning as defined herein. The present invention also relates to processes for preparing said compounds, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use, alone or in combination with other HCV inhibitors, in HCV therapy.
US08623897B2 Methods and compositions for treatment of diabetes and dyslipidemia
The invention is directed to novel compounds of Formula I: as well as its stereoisomers and/or pharmaceutically acceptable salts, for the treatment of diabetes and diabetes associated dyslipidemia.
US08623896B2 Insecticidal compounds
A compound of formula (I), wherein A1, A2, A3, A4, G1, L, R1, R2, R3, R4, Y1, Y2 and Y3 are as defined in claim 1; or a salt or N-oxide thereof. Furthermore, the present invention relates to processes and intermediates for preparing compounds of formula (I), to insecticidal, acaricidal, molluscicidal and nematicidal compositions comprising them and to methods of using them to combat and control insect, acarine, mollusc and nematode pests.
US08623893B2 Pyridino-pyridinone derivatives, preparation and therapeutic use thereof
The present invention relates to derivatives of pyridino-pyridinones, and to their preparation and use thereof, having activity as inhibitors of kinase activity of receptors for PDGF (platelet derived growth factors) ligands and optionally of receptors for the FLT3 (fms-like tyrosine kinase receptor) ligand receptors, said derivatives comprising compounds of formula (I): wherein the various substituent groups are more specifically defined herein. The compounds are suitable as therapeutics for the treatment of various proliferative diseases.
US08623892B2 Metalloenzyme inhibitor compounds
The instant invention describes compounds having metalloenzyme modulating activity, and methods of treating diseases, disorders or symptoms thereof mediated by such metalloenzymes.
US08623891B2 Methods for treating cognitive disorders using 3-aryl-3-hydroxy-2-amino-propionic acid amides, 3-heteroaryl-3-hydroxy-2-amino-propionic acid amides and related compounds
Disclosed herein are methods of treating a patient suffering from a cognitive disorder using compounds of Formulas (1) and (2) wherein the variables have the meaning disclosed in the specification.
US08623885B2 Fused tricyclic dual inhibitors of CDK 4/6 and FLT3
Compounds of Formula I are useful inhibitors of CDK 4, CDK6, and FLT3. Such compounds are useful in treating cancer and various other disease conditions. Compounds of Formula I have the following structure: where R1 is a group of Formula IA, Formula IB, Formula IC, or Formula ID and the definitions of the other variables are provided herein.
US08623880B2 Fused pyrimidine-dione derivatives as TRPA1 modulators
The invention described herein relates to novel fused pyrimidinediones derivatives of formula (I) which are TRPA (Transient Receptor Potential subfamily A) modulators. In particular, compounds described herein are useful for treating or preventing diseases, conditions and/or disorders modulated by TRPA1 (Transient Receptor Potential subfamily A, member 1). This invention also provides processes for preparing compounds described herein, intermediates used in their synthesis, pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and methods for treating or preventing diseases, conditions and/or disorders modulated by TRPA1.
US08623879B2 1-heterocyclyl-1,5-dihydro-pyrazolo[3,4-D] pyrimidin-4-one derivates and their use as PDE9A modulators
The invention relates to novel 1,6-disubstituted pyrazolopyrimidinones, Formula (I) with is a mono-, bi- or tri-cyclic heterocyclyl group, the ring members of which are carbon atoms and at least 1, preferably 1, 2 or 3, heteroatom(s), which are selected from the group of nitrogen, oxygen and sulphur, which is in the form of —S(O)r— with r being 0, 1 or 2, and—said heterocyclyl group is or comprises 1 non-aromatic, saturated, or partly unsaturated monocyclic ring which comprises at least 1 heteroatom as ring member and—said heterocyclyl group is bound to the scaffold by said 1 non-aromatic, saturated, or partly unsaturated monocyclic ring which comprises at least 1 heteroatom as ring member. According to one aspect of the invention the new compounds are for the manufacture of medicaments, in particular medicaments for the treatment of conditions concerning deficits in perception, concentration, learning or memory. The new compounds are also for the manufacture of medicaments for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
US08623873B2 Substituted piperazines as CB1 antagonists
Compounds of Formula (I): or pharmaceutically acceptable salts, solvates, or esters thereof, are useful in treating diseases or conditions mediated by CB1 receptors, such as metabolic syndrome and obesity, neuroinflammatory disorders, cognitive disorders and psychosis, addiction (e.g., smoking cessation), gastrointestinal disorders, and cardiovascular conditions.
US08623872B2 Quinazolinone derivatives as PARP inhibitors
The present invention provides compounds of formula (I), their use as PARP inhibitors as well as pharmaceutical compositions comprising said compounds of formula (I) wherein R1, R2, R3, L, X, Y and Z have defined meanings.
US08623871B2 Substituted biaryl compounds for inflammation and immune-related uses
The invention relates to compounds of structural formula (I): or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, clathrate, or prodrug thereof, wherein A, Y, L, R1, W1 and W2 are defined herein. These compounds are useful as immunosuppressive agents and for treating and preventing inflammatory conditions, allergic disorders, and immune disorders.
US08623870B2 Pyridazinone derivatives
Compounds of the formula (I), in which D, R1, R2, R3, R4 have the meanings indicated in Claim 1, are inhibitors of tyrosine kinases, in particular of Met kinase, and can be employed, inter alia, for the treatment of tumors.
US08623865B2 Acylpiperazinones and their use as pharmaceuticals
The invention relates to novel acylpiperazinone compounds, to the preparation of the compounds and intermediates used therein, to the use of the compounds as antibacterial medicaments and pharmaceutical compositions containing the compounds.
US08623862B2 Derivatives of N-[(1H-pyrazol-1-yl)aryl]-1H-indole or 1H-indazole-3-carboxamide, preparation thereof and applications thereof in therapeutics
The present invention relates to compounds corresponding to formula (I): X represents a —CH— group or a nitrogen atom; R1 represents a (C1-C4)alkyl or a (C1-C4)alkoxy; R2 represents a group Alk; R5 represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom or a group Alk; R6 represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a cyano, a group —COOAlk or a —CONH2 group.
US08623858B2 Azetidinyl diamides as monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitors
Disclosed are compounds, compositions and methods for treating various diseases, syndromes, conditions and disorders, including pain. Such compounds are represented by Formula (I) as follows: wherein Y, Z, R1, and s are defined herein.
US08623854B2 Nuclear export inhibitors of topoisomerase II alpha
A method of treating cancer in a subject comprising the step of administering to the subject in need thereof an effective amount of a combination of a compound that binds a nuclear export signal (NES inhibitor) on topoisomerase IIα and a topoisomerase inhibitor. Twenty small molecule inhibitors (SMI) that bind to the two nuclear export sequences (NES) topo IIα have been identified from the NCI database using computer-generated molecular modeling. These SMI will improve the effectiveness of topo II directed therapeutics, particularly in the treatment of diseases such as multiple myeloma (MM). In vitro apoptosis assays indicate that these drugs may be effective as single agents or in combination with currently used cancer drugs that target topo II.
US08623852B2 Topical methods and compositions for the treatment of eye diseases and conditions
The present invention relates to a new therapeutic approach for the treatment of eye diseases or conditions that allows for the delivery of corticosteroids to the eye's surface but does not cause any of the usual side effects associated with topical administration of corticosteroids. More specifically, the present invention provides methods of treatment involving the administration of a corticosteroid prodrug, such as dexamethasone palmitate, to the surface of the eye. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions and kits for carrying out such methods of treatment.
US08623842B2 Hemostatic agent and method
One aspect of the invention is a method of treating a wound to clot blood. A sponge material is applied to the wound. The sponge comprises a starch having hemostatic properties and at least one binding agent. The sponge may further comprise a porous, flexible material.
US08623840B2 Methods and compositions for inducing satiety
The present invention provides a medicament or food supplement, that when ingested by an individual, forms a gel mass in the individual's stomach, said gel mass consisting essentially of methylcellulose and water, as well as methods for inducing satiety, reversibly reducing stomach void volume, and reducing caloric intake in an individual.
US08623838B2 Organic compositions to treat HSF1-related diseases
The present disclosure relates to methods of treating heat shock factor 1 (HSF1)-related diseases such as cancer and viral diseases, using a therapeutically effective amount of a RNAi agent to HSF.
US08623833B2 Compositions and methods for enhancing drug delivery across and into epithelial tissues
This invention provides compositions and methods for enhancing delivery of drugs and other agents across epithelial tissues, including the skin, gastrointestinal tract, pulmonary epithelium, ocular tissues and the like. The compositions and methods are also useful for delivery across endothelial tissues, including the blood brain barrier. The compositions and methods employ a delivery enhancing transporter that has sufficient guanidino or amidino sidechain moieties to enhance delivery of a compound conjugated to the reagent across one or more layers of the tissue, compared to the non-conjugated compound. The delivery-enhancing polymers include, for example, poly-arginine molecules that are preferably between about 6 and 25 residues in length.
US08623830B2 Compositions containing α-1-antitrypsin and methods for use
Methods and compositions for treating patients (e.g., patients who are insulin resistant, patients who have diabetes, or are at risk for developing diabetes) are disclosed herein. The methods can include administration of an a1 antitrypsin (AAT) polypeptide or an agent, such as a nucleic acid molecule or organic compound, that promotes the expression or activity of a1-antitrypsin.
US08623826B2 Compositions and methods for treating centrally mediated nausea and vomiting
Provided are methods for treating nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or surgery, comprising the co-administration of netupitant, palonosetron and dexamethasone.
US08623825B2 Edible fat composition for enhancing bone strength
Disclosed is describes a method of increasing bone strength and/or increasing bone resistance to bending and/or improving bone architecture and/or maintaining bone status in a human, comprising administering to said human a composition comprising a fat source, wherein said fat source is a triglyceride fat source comprising triglycerides with 15-55% palmitic acid moieties out of the total fatty acids, and wherein the level of palmitic acid moieties at the sn-2 position of the glycerol backbone is at least 30% (w/w) of total palmitic acid. Said method is particularly intended for subjects at risk of impaired bone strength. Further disclosed is said fat source, as well as food articles and a commercial package comprising the same.
US08623822B2 KDR and VEGF/KDR binding peptides and their use in diagnosis and therapy
The present invention provides polypeptides, peptide dimers, and multimeric complexes comprising at least one binding moiety for KDR or VEGF/KDR complex, which have a variety of uses wherever treating, detecting, isolating or localizing angiogenesis is advantageous. Particularly disclosed are synthetic, isolated polypeptides capable of binding KDR or VEGF/KDR complex with high affinity (e.g., having a KD<1 μM), and dimer and multimeric constructs comprising these polypeptides, particularly contrast agents. Also provided are methods for monitoring and evaluating the therapeutic effectiveness of treatment protocols for diseases associated with angiogenesis or endothelial cell hyperproliferation, such as cancer, using contrast agents of the invention.
US08623817B2 Method of treating diabetes type 2 by administering ultrarapid acting insulin
Disclosed herein are improved methods of treating hyperglycemia with a combination of an ultrarapid acting insulin and insulin glargine comprising prandial administration of the ultrarapid insulin, and administration of a first dose of insulin glargine within 6 hours of waking for a day.
US08623815B2 TRIM5alpha mutants and uses thereof
New mutant forms of TRIM5α comprising one or more mutations at amino acid positions corresponding to amino acids 324, 328, 330, 333, 335, 336 and/or 337 of wild-type human TRIM5α and which inhibit retrovirus replication are described. These mutants may be used, for example, in gene therapy applications for the prevention and/or treatment of retroviral infection and associated conditions, such as HIV-1 infection and AIDS.
US08623813B2 Synergistic combinations of polyene fungicides and non-ribosomal peptides and related methods of use
The present invention includes compositions comprising a synergistic fungicidal combination of a polyene fungicide and at least one lipopeptide and methods for using such compositions in controlling fungal pathogens.
US08623799B2 Marine diesel cylinder lubricant
A marine diesel cylinder is lubricated using a lubricant having a total base number (TBN) of at least about 25, comprising an oil of lubricating viscosity and a metal-containing detergent component. Forty to 90 percent of the TBN derived from the metal-containing detergent component is provided by calcium detergent; 5 to 40 percent of the TBN by sodium detergent; and 5 to 45 percent by magnesium detergent. At least 50 weight percent of the total detergent substrate is sulfonate and less than 50 weight percent is monomeric or oligomeric substrate comprising one or more units of alkyl-substituted phenol having an alkyl group of 8 to 14 carbon atoms. The lubricant is useful when the marine diesel engine is fueled with a liquid fuel containing at least 2 ppm vanadium.
US08623790B2 Method of drilling a subterranean well with crosslinked polyacrylic acid
A method of drilling a gas or oil well consists of use of a water-based drilling fluids containing high molecular weight crosslinked polyacrylic acid as viscosifying agent. The drilling fluid may further contain a lubricant, weighting agent and/or a wetting agent as well as a synthetic silicate or smectite clay. The aqueous based drilling fluid exhibits a coefficient of friction which is substantially close to the coefficient of friction of oil based drilling muds. The drilling fluid exhibits stability at well temperatures in excess of 150° C.
US08623788B1 Flux pinning of cuprate superconductors with nanoparticles
The present invention provides a method of making a high temperature superconductor having a doped, nanoparticulate pinning structure. The method includes providing a nanoparticulate pinning material, providing a cuprate material, doping the nanoparticulate pinning material with a dopant to form a doped nanoparticulate material, depositing a layer of the cuprate material on a substrate, and depositing a layer of the doped nanoparticulate material on the layer of cuprate material. The invention also provides a high temperature superconductor (HTS) having a doped, nanoparticulate pinning structure including a plurality of layers of a cuprate material and a plurality of layers of a doped nanoparticulate pinning material. At least one layer of the doped nanoparticulate pinning material is stacked between two layers of the cuprate material.
US08623785B2 Thermal recording material and method for producing the same
Provided is a thermal recording material comprising an intermediate layer and a heat-sensitive recording layer for color formation by heat stacked in this order onto a support, the thermal recording material being characterized in that the intermediate layer contains a bellows-shaped hollow resin and that the roughness of the surface on the color forming side is 1.0 μm or less as measured by Parker Print Surf. The method for producing such a thermal recording material comprises the steps of: applying a coating liquid containing heat-expandable resin particles to a support, drying the coated support at a temperature lower than the expansion starting temperature of the heat-expandable resin particle, and subjecting the coated support to thermoforming for formation of an intermediate layer; and applying, to the intermediate layer, heat-sensitive recording-related components which contribute to color formation by heat, for formation of a heat-sensitive recording layer.
US08623784B2 Polyaniline-graphite nanoplatelet materials
Nanocomposite adsorbent materials and methods for their preparation and use are described. As an example, a polyaniline-graphite nanoplatelet nanocomposite may be used to adsorb carbon dioxide.
US08623774B2 Printing blanket construction
A printing blanket construction is provided which includes a reinforcing fabric ply comprised of a weft insertion fabric or a heavy gauge fabric, where the reinforcing fabric ply provides all of the necessary tensioning properties to the blanket. The use of the reinforcing fabric ply eliminates the need for additional reinforcing fabric plies in the blanket construction, and provides high tensile strength, low stretch, and resistance to gauge loss.
US08623773B2 Etchant for metal layer including copper or a copper alloy, method of manufacturing a display substrate using the same and display substrate
An etchant includes about 50% by weight to about 70% by weight of phosphoric acid, about 1% by weight to about 5% by weight of nitric acid, about 10% by weight to about 20% by weight of acetic acid, about 0.1% by weight to about 2% by weight of a corrosion inhibition agent including an azole-based compound and a remainder of water.
US08623771B2 Method for fabricating micropattern of semiconductor device
A method for fabricating a micropattern of a semiconductor device is provided. The method includes forming a first hard mask over an etch target layer, forming a first sacrificial layer over the first hard mask, etching the first sacrificial layer to form a sacrificial pattern and forming spacers on both sidewalls of the sacrificial pattern, A second sacrificial layer is formed over the spacers and the first hard mask. A dummy mask is formed in a bent portion of the second sacrificial layer between the adjacent spacers. The sacrificial pattern and the second sacrificial layer are etched using the dummy mask and the spacers as an etch barrier layer to form a dummy pattern between the adjacent spacers. The first hard mask is etched using the spacers and the dummy pattern as an etch barrier layer to form a first hard mask pattern.
US08623767B2 Method for polishing aluminum/copper and titanium in damascene structures
The invention provides compositions and methods for planarizing or polishing a substrate. The composition comprises an abrasive consisting of alumina particles optionally treated with a polymer, an α-hydroxycarboxylic acid, an oxidizing agent that oxidizes at least one metal, polyacrylic acid, optionally, a calcium-containing compound, optionally, a biocide, optionally, a pH adjusting agent, and water. The method uses the composition to chemically-mechanically polish a substrate.
US08623762B2 Semiconductor device and a method for making the semiconductor device
An opening (9) is made in the substrate (1) over a terminal pad (7). A dielectric layer (10), a metallization (11), a compensation layer (13) and a passivation layer (15) are deposited so that the passivation layer is separated from the metallization by the compensation layer at least within the opening. A material that is suitable for reducing a mechanical stress between the metallization and the passivation layer is chosen for the compensation layer.
US08623760B2 Process for improving copper line cap formation
An integrated circuit includes a semiconductor substrate, a low-k dielectric layer over the semiconductor substrate, a first opening in the low-k dielectric layer, and a first diffusion barrier layer in the first opening covering the low-k dielectric layer in the first opening, wherein the first diffusion barrier layer has a bottom portion connected to sidewall portions, and wherein the sidewall portions have top surfaces close to a top surface of the low-k dielectric layer. The integrated circuit further includes a conductive line filling the first opening wherein the conductive line has a top surface lower than the top surfaces of the sidewall portions of the diffusion barrier layer, and a metal cap on the conductive line and only within a region directly over the conductive line.
US08623756B2 Reflow system and method for conductive connections
A system and method for forming conductive connections is disclosed. An embodiment comprises forming conductive material on to contacts of a semiconductor substrate. The semiconductor substrate is then inverter such that the conductive material is beneath the semiconductor substrate, and the conductive material is reflowed to form a conductive bump. The reflow is performed using gravity in order to form a more uniform shape for the conductive bump.
US08623753B1 Stackable protruding via package and method
A method of forming a stackable protruding via package including enclosing an electronic component and electrically conductive first traces on a first surface of a substrate in a package body. Protruding via apertures are formed through the package body to expose the first traces. The protruding via apertures are filled with solder to form electrically conductive vias in direct physical and electrical contact with the first traces. Via extension bumps are attached to first surfaces of the vias. The vias and the via extension bumps are reflowed to form protruding vias. The protruding vias extend from the first traces through the package body and protrude above a principal surface of the package body. The protruding vias enable electrical connection of the stackable protruding via package to a larger substrate such as a printed circuit motherboard. Further, the protruding vias in accordance with one embodiment are formed with a minimum pitch.
US08623745B2 Composition for forming gate insulating film for thin-film transistor
There is provided a novel composition for forming a gate insulating film taking into consideration also electrical characteristics after other processes such as wiring by irradiation with an ultraviolet ray and the like during the production of an organic transistor using a gate insulating film. A composition for forming a gate insulating film for a thin-film transistor comprising: a component (i): an oligomer compound or a polymer compound containing a repeating unit having a structure in which a nitrogen atom of a triazine-trione ring is bonded to a nitrogen atom of another triazine-trione ring through a hydroxyalkylene group; and a component (ii): a compound having two or more blocked isocyanate groups in one molecule thereof.
US08623744B1 Die singulation method
A method is disclosed for singulating die from a semiconductor substrate (e.g. a semiconductor-on-insulator substrate or a bulk silicon substrate) containing an oxide layer (e.g. silicon dioxide or a silicate glass) and one or more semiconductor layers (e.g. monocrystalline or polycrystalline silicon) located above the oxide layer. The method etches trenches through the substrate and through each semiconductor layer about the die being singulated, with the trenches being offset from each other around at least a part of the die so that the oxide layer between the trenches holds the substrate and die together. The trenches can be anisotropically etched using a Deep Reactive Ion Etching (DRIE) process. After the trenches are etched, the oxide layer between the trenches can be etched away with an HF etchant to singulate the die. A release fixture can be located near one side of the substrate to receive the singulated die.
US08623743B2 Semiconductor chips having guard rings and methods of fabricating the same
Provided is a semiconductor chip. The semiconductor chip includes a semiconductor substrate including a main chip region and a scribe lane region surrounding the main chip region. An insulating layer is disposed over the semiconductor substrate. A guard ring is disposed in the insulating layer in the scribe lane region. The guard ring surrounds at least a portion of the main chip region. The guard ring has a brittleness greater than a brittleness of the insulating layer.
US08623740B2 Method of detaching semi-conductor layers at low temperature
A method for producing a structure having an ultra thin buried oxide (UTBOX) layer by assembling a donor substrate with a receiver substrate wherein at least one of the substrates includes an insulating layer having a thickness of less than 50 nm that faces the other substrate, conducting a first heat treatment for reinforcing the assembly between the two substrates at temperature below 400° C., and conducting a second heat treatment at temperature above 900° C., wherein the exposure time between 400° C. and 900° C. between the heat treatments is less than 1 minute and advantageously less than 30 seconds.
US08623737B2 Sol-gel and mask patterning for thin-film capacitor fabrication, thin-film capacitors fabricated thereby, and systems containing same
A process of forming a thin-film capacitor that includes sol-gel patterning of a dielectric thin film on a first electrode, lift-off removal of unwanted dielectric thin film, and mating the dielectric thin film with a second electrode. The thin-film capacitor exhibits a substantially uniform heat-altered morphology along a line defined by a characteristic dimension thereof. A computing system is also disclosed that includes the thin-film capacitor.
US08623735B2 Methods of forming semiconductor devices having capacitor and via contacts
Disclosed herein are various methods of forming semiconductor devices that have capacitor and via contacts. In one example, the method includes forming a first conductive structure and a bottom electrode of a capacitor in a layer of insulating material, forming a layer of conductive material above the first conductive structure and the bottom electrode and performing an etching process on the layer of conductive material to define a conductive material hard mask and a top electrode for the capacitor, wherein the conductive material hard mask is positioned above at least a portion of the first conductive structure. This illustrative method includes the further steps of forming an opening in the conductive material hard mask and forming a second conductive structure that extends through the opening in the conductive material hard mask and conductively contacts the first conductive structure.
US08623723B2 Method for manufacturing a semiconductor device with a bit line contact hole
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device is disclosed. A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device includes forming a device isolation structure for defining an active region, forming a buried word line traversing the active region, forming one or more insulation film patterns over the buried word line, forming a line pattern including a first conductive material at a position between the insulation film patterns, and forming a plurality of storage node contacts (SNCs) by isolating the line pattern. As a result, when forming a bit line contact and a storage node contact, a fabrication margin is increased.
US08623720B2 Method of fabricating a thin film transistor from amorphous silicon and organic light emitting diode display device having the thin film transistor
A thin film transistor (TFT), a method of fabricating the same, and an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display device including the TFT. The TFT includes a substrate having a pixel region and a non-pixel region, a semiconductor layer, a gate insulating layer, a gate electrode, and source and drain electrodes disposed on the pixel region, at least one gettering site disposed on the non-pixel region, and at least one connection portion to connect the at least one gettering site and the semiconductor layer. The method of fabricating the TFT includes patterning a polycrystalline silicon (poly-Si) layer to form a plurality of semiconductor layers, connection portions, and at least one gettering site, the semiconductor layers being connected to the at least one gettering site via the connection portions, and annealing the substrate to getter the plurality of semiconductor layers.
US08623717B2 Side-gate defined tunable nanoconstriction in double-gated graphene multilayers
A method to fabricate a novel graphene based, electrically tunable, nanoconstriction device is described. The device includes a back-gate dielectric layer formed over a conductive substrate. The back-gate dielectric layer is, in one example, hexagonal boron nitride, mica, SiOx, SiNx, BNx, HfOx or AlOx. A graphene layer is an AB-stacked bi-layer graphene layer, an ABC-stacked tri-layer graphene layer or a stacked few-layer graphene layer. Contacts are formed over a portion of the graphene layer including at least one source contact, at least one drain contact and at least one set of side-gate contacts. A graphene channel with graphene side gates is formed in the graphene layer between the at least one source contact, the at least one the drain contact and the at least one set of side-gate contacts. A top-gate dielectric layer is formed over the graphene layer. A top-gate electrode is formed on the top-gate dielectric layer.
US08623713B2 Trench isolation structure
A trench isolation structure and method of forming the trench isolation structure are disclosed. The method includes forming a shallow trench isolation (STI) structure having an overhang and forming a gate stack. The method further includes forming source and drain recesses adjacent to the STI structure and the gate stack. The source and drain recesses are separated from the STI structure by substrate material. The method further includes forming epitaxial source and drain regions associated with the gate stack by filling the source and drain recesses with stressor material.
US08623712B2 Bulk fin-field effect transistors with well defined isolation
A fin field-effect-transistor fabricated by forming a dummy fin structure on a semiconductor substrate. A dielectric layer is formed on the semiconductor substrate. The dielectric layer surrounds the dummy fin structure. The dummy fin structure is removed to form a cavity within the dielectric layer. The cavity exposes a portion of the semiconductor substrate thereby forming an exposed portion of the semiconductor substrate within the cavity. A dopant is implanted into the exposed portion of the semiconductor substrate within the cavity thereby creating a dopant implanted exposed portion of the semiconductor substrate within the cavity. A semiconductor layer is epitaxially grown within the cavity atop the dopant implanted exposed portion of the semiconductor substrate.
US08623711B2 Integrated circuit packaging system with package-on-package and method of manufacture thereof
A method of manufacture of an integrated circuit packaging system includes: forming a peripheral lead; forming an interior conductive layer directly on the peripheral lead; forming a vertical connector directly on the interior conductive layer, the vertical connector having a connector top side; connecting an integrated circuit to the interior conductive layer; and forming an encapsulation over the integrated circuit, the encapsulation having an encapsulation top side coplanar with the connector top side.
US08623708B1 Integrated circuit packaging system with grid-array mechanism and method of manufacture thereof
A method of manufacture of an integrated circuit packaging system includes providing a lead-frame having an inner portion and a bottom cover directly on a bottom surface of the inner portion; forming an insulation cover directly on the lead-frame with the insulation cover having a connection opening; connecting an integrated circuit die to the lead-frame through the connection opening with the integrated circuit die over the insulation cover; forming a top encapsulation directly on the insulation cover; forming a routing layer having a conductive land directly on the bottom cover by shaping the lead-frame; and forming a bottom encapsulation directly on the conductive land with the bottom cover exposed from the bottom encapsulation.
US08623707B2 Method of fabricating a semiconductor package with integrated substrate thermal slug
To reduce the thermal stresses that may be caused by a difference in thermal expansion coefficients between a molded casing and an active side of a semiconductor device embedded in the molded casing, and thus reduce the number of corresponding failures caused by the thermal stresses, the active side of the semiconductor device is arranged face-down, towards a substrate supporting the semiconductor device. The semiconductor device includes a through via that electrically connects the active side of the semiconductor device to a passive side of the semiconductor device. A wire bond electrically connects the passive side of the semiconductor device to the substrate. To increase the dissipation of heat generated in the semiconductor device, a thermally conductive slug may be disposed in the substrate, and the active side of the semiconductor device may be attached to the thermally conductive slug.
US08623704B2 Adhesive/spacer island structure for multiple die package
An adhesive/spacer structure (52, 52A, 60) is used to adhere first and second die (14, 18) to one another at a chosen separation in a multiple-die semiconductor chip package (56). The first and second die define a die bonding region (38) therebetween. The adhesive/spacer structure may comprise a plurality of spaced-apart adhesive/spacer islands (52, 52A) securing the first and second die to one another at a chosen separation (53). The adhesive/spacer structure may also secure the first and second die to one another to occupy about 1-50% of the die bonding region.
US08623694B2 Methods of forming fast ion conductors and memory devices comprising diffused metal ions
Non-volatile, resistance variable memory devices, integrated circuit elements, and methods of forming such devices are provided. According to one embodiment of a method of the invention, a memory device can be fabricated by depositing a chalcogenide material onto a first (lower) electrode, sputter depositing a thin diffusion layer of a conductive material over the chalcogenide material, diffusing metal from the diffusion layer into the chalcogenide material, resulting in a metal-comprising resistance variable material, and then plating a conductive material to a desired thickness to form a second (upper) electrode. In another embodiment, the surface of the chalcogenide layer can be treated with an activating agent such as palladium, a conductive metal can be electrolessly plated onto the activated areas to form a thin diffusion layer, metal ions from the diffusion layer can be diffused into the chalogenide material to form a resistance variable material, and a conductive material plated over the resistance variable material to form the upper electrode. The invention provides a process for controlling the diffusion of metal into the chalcogenide material to form a resistance variable material by depositing the mass of the upper electrode by a metal plating technique.
US08623693B2 Solar cell system manufacturing method
A solar cell system making method includes steps of making a round P-N junction by (a) stacking a P-type silicon layer and a N-type silicon layer on top of each other, and (b) forming a P-N junction near an interface between the P-type silicon layer and the N-type silicon layer; cutting the round P-N junction into a plurality of arc shaped solar cell preforms; forming an arc shaped surface by stacking the plurality of arc shaped solar cell preforms along a first direction and forming an electrode layer between each adjacent two of the plurality of arc shaped solar cell preforms; and forming a first collection electrode and a second collection electrode to form an arc shaped solar cell system having a photoreceptive surface being on the arc shaped surface and being configured to receive incident light beams.
US08623691B2 Solid state image pickup device and method of producing solid state image pickup device
Forming a back-illuminated type CMOS image sensor, includes process for formation of a registration mark on the wiring side of a silicon substrate during formation of an active region or a gate electrode. A silicide film using an active region may also be used for the registration mark. Thereafter, the registration mark is read from the back-side by use of red light or near infrared rays, and registration of the stepper is accomplished. It is also possible to form a registration mark in a silicon oxide film on the back-side (illuminated side) in registry with the registration mark on the wiring side, and to achieve the desired registration by use of the registration mark thus formed.
US08623685B2 Method of manufacturing a light emitting diode
A method of manufacturing a light emitting diode is disclosed. In one aspect, the light emitting diode has a carrier, an active layer structure of III-nitride type materials, and a photonic crystal structure of III-nitride type materials. The active layer structure includes a first active layer with an n-type doped layer and a p-type doped layer and suitably a quantum well structure. The photonic crystal structure includes periodically distributed trenches or periodically distributed pillars spaced by one or more trenches. The photonic crystal structure includes an overgrowth layer within which a diameter of a trench gradually increases, and a directional photonic crystal layer in which the diameter of a trench is substantially constant. The diode may be formed in a method wherein the directional photonic crystal layer is provided on a three-dimensional pattern that exposes selected areas of the first surface of the substrate.
US08623681B2 Thin film transistor substrate, method for manufacturing the same, and liquid crystal display panel
An auxiliary capacitor (6a) includes a capacitor line (11ba), a gate insulating film (12) provided so as to cover the capacitor line (11ba), a semiconductor layer (13b) provided on the gate insulating film (12) so as to overlap with the capacitor line (11b), and a drain electrode (14ba) provided on the semiconductor layer (13b) and connected to a pixel electrode (16a). The semiconductor layer (13b) made of an oxide semiconductor and the pixel electrode (16a) made of an oxide conductor contact each other.
US08623679B2 Organic EL display unit, method of manufacturing the same, and solution used in method
An organic electroluminescence display unit including: a lower electrode for each device; a first hole injection/transport layer provided on the lower electrode for each device; a second organic light emitting layer of the first color provided on the first hole injection/transport layer for the second organic electroluminescence device; a second hole injection/transport layer provided on the entire surfaces of the second organic light emitting layer and the first hole injection/transport layer for the first organic electroluminescence device, and being made of a low molecular material; a blue first organic light emitting layer provided on the entire surface of the second hole injection/transport layer; and an electron injection/transport layer having at least one of electron injection characteristics and electron transport characteristics, and an upper electrode that are provided in sequence on the entire surface of first organic light emitting layer.
US08623676B2 Semiconductor light emitting device with light transmittable electrode and method for manufacturing same
According to one embodiment, a semiconductor light emitting device includes first and second conductive layers, a first semiconductor layer of a first conductivity type, a second semiconductor layer of a second conductivity type, and a light emitting part. The second semiconductor layer is provided between the first conductive layer and the first semiconductor layer. The light emitting part is provided between the first and second semiconductor layers. The second conductive layer is in contact with the second semiconductor layer and the first conductive layer between the second semiconductor layer and the first conductive layer. The first and second conductive layers are transmittable to light emitted from the light emitting part. The first conductive layer includes a polycrystal having a first average grain diameter. The second conductive layer includes a polycrystal having a second average grain diameter of 150 nanometers or less and smaller than the first average grain diameter.
US08623675B2 Beam homogenizer, laser irradiation apparatus, and method for manufacturing semiconductor device
The energy distribution of the beam spot on the irradiated surface changes due to the change in the oscillation condition of the laser or before and after the maintenance. The present invention provides an optical system for forming a rectangular beam spot on an irradiated surface including a beam homogenizer for homogenizing the energy distribution of the rectangular beam spot on the irradiated surface in a direction of its long or short side. The beam homogenizer includes an optical element having a pair of reflection planes provided oppositely for reflecting the laser beam in the direction where the energy distribution is homogenized and having a curved shape in its entrance surface. The entrance surface of the optical element means a surface of the optical element where the laser beam is incident first.
US08623674B2 Method of manufacturing liquid ejection head substrate
A liquid ejection head substrate including a silicon substrate having a liquid supply port as hollow and slots as through holes connecting the hollow and a liquid channel arranged opposite sides of the substrate. The method includes etching the substrate to form the hollow; forming a first resist on the hollow; etching the first resist on the bottom of the hollow under conditions of securing an equal etching rate to both the silicon substrate and the first resist; forming a second resist on the hollow; patterning the second resist into an etching mask; and etching the substrate using the etching mask to form the through holes.
US08623672B2 Prediction and scheduling server
A server creates a plurality of projects pertaining to providing manufacturing service results. Each of the plurality of projects specifies operations to be performed relating to providing the manufacturing service results and at least one of the plurality of projects generates a requested manufacturing service result. The server initiates the at least one project that generates the requested manufacturing service result, wherein the at least one project is associated with an execution engine. The initiation of the at least one project may include sending input data to the execution engine based on configuration data that is associated with the execution engine, and obtaining the requested manufacturing service result from the execution engine. The server provides the requested manufacturing server result to at least one recipient.
US08623669B2 Method of fabricating epitaxial semiconductor devices
A method of fabricating epitaxial semiconductor devices includes: (a) forming an etch limiting film that includes a sacrificial layer on an epitaxial substrate; (b) growing epitaxially layers of a semiconductor structure on the sacrificial layer; (c) forming on the semiconductor structure a layer of a device substrate that can be magnetized, and a patterned passage unit that extends from the device substrate to a depth as deep as the sacrificial layer such that a plurality of semiconductor units are defined in the semiconductor structure and the device substrate; and (d) separating the semiconductor units from the epitaxial substrate by etching laterally the sacrificial layer through the patterned passage unit while a magnetic attraction force is applied to the device substrate.
US08623665B2 Fecal sample collection and processing apparatus and method
A method for collecting and processing biological samples (e.g., fecal samples) is disclosed. The method may include obtaining a system comprising a container, a collector, and a lid. Using the collector, a user may collect a sample. The sample may be inserted within the container. The lid may be secured and the container and sample contained therewithin may be transported to a testing facility. At the testing facility, the container may be used throughout the processing of the sample. Accordingly, the risk of cross-contamination may be reduced.
US08623663B2 Reaction apparatus and process
A new reaction apparatus including a capillary having an inner surface to which a probe molecule that specifically binds to an analyte is immobilized, allowing a short throughput time for completing the binding reaction, and achieving a highly efficient reaction using a small amount of a sample and a process of the reaction are provided. The reaction apparatus includes a capillary having an inner surface to which a probe molecule that specifically binds to an analyte is immobilized; a columnar magnetic body that is disposed in a fluid containing the analyte in the state that the fluid is placed in the capillary; end-fixing means for fixing one end of the columnar magnetic body in the capillary by a DC magnetic field; and end-moving means for moving the other end of the columnar magnetic body by an AC magnetic field so as to transfer the fluid.
US08623661B2 Iron chelating agent, method for producing same, method for determining amount of iron ions and method for trapping iron ions
The present invention provides an iron chelating agent which can selectively chelate iron ions. The iron chelating agent of the present invention includes a compound represented by the following formula (1) or a salt thereof (wherein, ring Z represents an aromatic hydrocarbon ring or an aromatic heterocyclic ring; R1 represents an alkylene group; R2 and R3 each independently represent a hydrogen atom, a hydrocarbon group or a group having chelating ability; and the total coordination number of the groups represented by R2 and R3 is 1 or 2.)
US08623660B2 Hand-held test meter with phase-shift-based hematocrit measurement circuit
A hand-held test meter for use with an analytical test strip in the determination of an analyte in a bodily fluid sample includes a housing; a microcontroller block disposed in the housing; and a phase-shift-based hematocrit measurement block. The phase-shift-based hematocrit measurement block includes a signal generation sub-block, a low pass filter sub-block, an analytical test strip sample cell interface sub-block, a transimpedance amplifier sub-block, and a phase detector sub-block. In addition, the phase-shift-based hematocrit measurement block and microcontroller block are configured to measure the phase shift of a bodily fluid sample in a sample cell of an analytical test strip inserted in the hand-held test meter and the microcontroller block is configured to compute the hematocrit of the bodily fluid sample based on the measured phase shift.
US08623657B2 Flow cytometer apparatus and method
An apparatus and method for analyzing characteristics of particles in a fluid stream. The particles may be intermittently illuminated at an interrogation location with a pulsed laser. A time-varying signal produced in response to the illumination may be analyzed as a function of a timing signal in order to determine characteristics of the particles in the fluid stream.
US08623656B2 Screening method for test specimen
A test specimen that has one or more chemical substances fixed to prescribed plural independent positions on a substrate, and the quantities of the chemical substances fixed at the respective prescribed positions are the total of integer multiples of existence quantity units defined for the respective chemical substances in the range from 1 amol to 1 nmol (excluding the case in which the total quantity is zero).
US08623646B2 Volume exclusion agent to enhance formation of extracellular matrix
A method of enhancing the formation of extracellular matrix in culture. Cells in culture secrete most of the collagen into the media as unprocessed procollagen, i.e., the cells do not convert procollagen to collagen. In contrast, normal extracellular matrix deposition involves procollagen processing to collagen, fibril assembly and deposition into the cell layer to form a collagenous extracellular matrix. The addition of certain growth factors and the addition of a thin layer of a certain volume exclusion agent on top of the cells dramatically enhances the conversion of procollagen to collagen and will increase the amount of collagen and extracellular matrix associated with the cells. This invention advances bioengineering of connective tissues for medical applications that require an extensive and functional extracellular matrix with high tensile strength such as those in the cornea stroma, skin, tendons, ligaments, articular cartilage and the intervertebral disks.
US08623645B2 Definitive endoderm
Disclosed herein are cell cultures comprising definitive endoderm cells and methods of producing the same. Also disclosed herein are cell populations comprising substantially purified definitive endoderm cells as well as methods for enriching, isolating and purifying definitive endoderm cells from other cell types.
US08623643B2 Antisense oligonucleotide modulation of STAT3 expression
Compounds, compositions and methods are provided for inhibiting the expression of human STAT3. The compositions comprise antisense oligonucleotides targeted to nucleic acids encoding STAT3. Methods of using these oligonucleotides for inhibition of STAT3 expression and for promotion of apoptosis are provided. Methods for treatment of diseases, particularly inflammatory diseases and cancers, associated with overexpression or constitutive activation of STAT3 or insufficient apoptosis are also provided.
US08623642B2 Somatic stem cells
A population of somatic stem cells and a method of preparing same. Also disclosed are two subpopulations thereof and their various uses.
US08623641B2 Apparatus and method for washing biological material
In a general aspect, an apparatus for washing biological material is provided which includes an outer sleeve, and an inner sleeve disposed within the outer sleeve. The outer sleeve has an open end for receiving the biological material, and an opposed closed end. The inner sleeve is detachably and slidably positioned within the outer sleeve, and includes a first port for receiving and dispensing washing liquid, a second port defining a liquid flow path between an interior of the inner sleeve and an interior of the outer sleeve, and a filter disposed in the second port. The filter allows passage of washing liquid but not passage of the biological material therethrough. A chamber, formed between the filter and the closed end of the outer sleeve, is configured to permit flow of washing liquid via the filter while retaining the biological material therein.
US08623637B2 Nucleic acid amplification apparatus and thermal cycler
A thermal cycler is provided that may be used as a nucleic acid amplification apparatus. The cycler has at least three temperature zones that can be set at different temperatures, the temperature zones including a first temperature zone, an intermediate zone, and a second temperature zone. The cycler has a channel including a plurality of forward subchannels and a plurality of backward subchannels, with the forward subchannels being different from the backward subchannels in terms of cross-sectional area in the intermediate zone. The channel is configured to continuously flow a fluid alternately through one of the forward subchannels and one of the backward subchannels, so that the fluid travels repeatedly between the first temperature zone and the second temperature zone via the intermediate zone, whereby the fluid is thermally cycled while the fluid flows through the channel.
US08623636B2 Nanoparticle biosensor, method of preparing same and uses thereof
The invention relates to the field of biosensors and, more specifically, to nanoparticle biosensors comprising: a magnetic core, a silica layer, one or more outer metal layers which can be of different types and deposited in an alternating manner and immobilized on the outer surface, and a layer of synthetic or natural organic or inorganic biosensor molecules that can bind to biomolecules. The invention also relates to a method of obtaining the nanoparticle biosensors as well as to the different uses thereof.
US08623634B2 Growing aquatic biomass, and producing biomass feedstock and biocrude therefrom
A method for producing biomass and sequestering greenhouse gas includes providing a greenhouse gas, providing light energy, and growing algae in a growth container with the greenhouse gas and the light energy. The algae can be processed into a biomass feedstock. The biomass feedstock can be converted into a fuel or specialty chemical. At least a portion of the algae can be used as a fertilizer for a biomass growth source.
US08623632B2 Extracellular polyhydroxyalkanoates produced by genetically engineered microorganisms
The present invention is in the field of biosynthesis of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA). The invention relates to a genetically engineered microorganism having at least one gene involved in the metabolism, preferably in the production, of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA). This microorganism is useful in commercial production of polyhydroxyalkanoates. The present invention further relates to a method for the production of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA).
US08623616B2 Methods and materials for detecting contaminated food products
This document provides methods and materials for detecting contaminated food products. For example, methods and materials for using an enzymatic amplification cascade of restriction endonucleases to detect nucleic acid of a microorganism or virus (e.g., a pathogen) within a sample (e.g., food product sample) being tested, thereby assessing a food product for possible contamination are provided.
US08623613B2 Method to detect endothelial cell massive calcium accumulation death
Stains that are specific for calcium ion are used to assess and predict the effects of various treatments on the viability of cell types contained in a sample, wherein said stain detects endothelial cells that have massive calcium accumulation death.
US08623599B2 Method for methylation analysis
Aspects of the invention relate to composition and methods for the providing of DNA for methylation analysis that is in particular suitable to be applied in reference laboratories. Further 5 aspects of the invention relate to composition and methods for the highly specific and sensitive methylation analysis of the Septin 9 gene also in particular suitable to be applied in reference laboratories.
US08623593B1 GPR 17 agonists and screening assay
The present invention is related to a method of determining a test compound's ability to modify the biological activity of a GPR17. Said method comprises, among others, the step of contacting the test compound with a GPR17, or a functional GPR17 fragment in the presence of a suitable amount of a GPR17 agonist of formula I.
US08623591B2 Method for separating desired cells from tissue by freezing
Methods of isolating cellular products, such as pancreatic islets, may be used in diabetes research and therapeutic transplantation. The methods may involve providing a tissue having desired cells that are less prone to destructive freezing and undesired cells that are more prone to destructive freezing, or pre-treating a tissue to have such characteristics. The methods may involve freezing the tissue, disrupting the tissue, warming the tissue, and separating the desired cells from undesired cellular material to obtain the cellular product. The methods may thereby provide an enzyme-free or reduced-enzyme method of isolating a cellular product that is more consistent, reliable and less toxic than conventional methods. The methods may also yield an optimum quantity of cellular product that retain sufficient functional integrity to be useful as a transplantation resource.
US08623590B2 Pattern forming process
A resist pattern is formed by coating a first positive resist composition comprising a polymer comprising 20-100 mol % of aromatic group-containing recurring units and adapted to turn alkali soluble under the action of an acid onto a substrate to form a first resist film, coating a second positive resist composition comprising a C3-C8 alkyl alcohol solvent which does not dissolve the first resist film on the first resist film to form a second resist film, exposing, baking, and developing the first and second resist films simultaneously with a developer.
US08623586B2 Method for on-press developable lithographic plate utilizing light-blocking material
A method for applying a light-blocking material onto an imagewise exposed lithographic printing plate is disclosed. The exposed plate comprises on a substrate a photosensitive layer having hardened areas and non-hardened areas (for negative plate) or solubilized areas and non-solubilized areas (for positive plate). The non-hardened or solubilized areas of said photosensitive layer are removable with ink and/or fountain solution on a lithographic press. The light-blocking material is applied to the plate preferably from a solution or dispersion containing such material. The application of the light-blocking material prevents at least a portion of the room light in a certain wavelength (such as ultraviolet) range from reaching the photosensitive layer, thus allowing improved room light stability of the exposed plate.
US08623584B2 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.
US08623575B2 Liquid crystal display panel, color filter and manufacturing method thereof
A liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a color filter (CF) and a manufacturing method thereof are disclosed in the present disclosure. The CF comprises a transparent substrate, a black matrix, first CF units, second CF units and a conductive layer. The transparent substrate comprises an active area and a dummy area. The first CF units in the active area have a trapezoidal cross section, and the second CF units in the dummy area have an inverted trapezoidal cross section. The conductive layer covers the active area continuously but covers the dummy area discontinuously; and thus, the active area can perform normal electrical conduction functions while an insulating effect can be achieved in the dummy area. In this way, even if conductive particles are present in the dummy area during the assembling process of the CF and a TFT, the discontinuous conductive layer in the dummy area can still prevent occurrence of abnormal conditions that the CF and the TFT are at the same voltage level. Thereby, abnormal short-circuits occurring when the CF and the TFT are assembled together can be prevented to improve the product quality.
US08623571B2 Fuel cell system
The present invention discloses a fuel cell system that blocks the oxidant gas flow passage. This fuel cell system includes a fuel cell stack, the oxidant gas supply passage, the oxidant gas exhaust passage, the first valve and second valve of normally open type, the first motor that operates open and close operations of the first valve, the second motor that operates open and close operations of the second valve, and the ECU that controls the first motor and the second motor. This ECU controls the first valve and the second valve to be in the open state during the power generation in the fuel cell stack, thereby to open the cathode flow passage, and controls the first valve and the second valve to be in the close state after the power generation in the fuel cell stack is stopped, thereby to block the cathode flow passage. The fuel cell system of the present invention further includes the first solenoid device and the second solenoid device that lock the respective valve bodies of the first valve and the second valve so as to maintain the close state of the first valve and the second valve.
US08623570B2 Fuel cell stack
A fuel cell stack includes a casing containing a plurality of fuel cell units. A ridge is formed integrally at the center in the width direction of a side panel of the casing. The ridge contacts a load receiver to support the load of the fuel cell units. A plurality of separate reinforcement plates bridging a recess of the back surface of the ridge are provided on the side panel. The reinforcement plates are fixed to the side panel at welding points by spot welding.
US08623566B2 Aircraft fuel cell system
An aircraft fuel cell system includes a fuel cell which has an oxidant inlet for supplying an oxygen-containing medium to the fuel cell. An oxidant supply line has a first end which is connected to the oxidant inlet of the fuel cell. A second end of the oxidant supply line is connectable to a used air outlet of a cabin of the aircraft. A heat exchanger is located in the oxidant supply line and thermally couples the oxygen-containing medium flowing through the oxidant supply line and a second medium flowing through an air conditioning process air line of an air conditioning unit, the heat exchanger being located downstream of a cabin air compressor in the air conditioning process air line.
US08623565B2 Assembly of bifurcation and trifurcation bipolar plate to design fuel cell stack
A current producing cell has anode flow plates 22 and cathode flow plates 20. Each of the flow plates 20, 22 defines a membrane face 26, a collector face 24, and a center axis C perpendicular to the membrane face 26 and the collector face 24. Each of the collector faces 24 define a plurality of cooling channels 74, 76, 78 and a plurality of transport channels 62, 64. The cooling channels 74, 76, 78 of the cathode flow plates 20 extend radially relative to the center axis C thereof to overlap the transport channels 62, 64 of the anode flow plates 22. The cooling channels 74, 76, 78 of the anode flow plates 22 extend radially relative to the center axis C thereof to overlap the transport channels 62, 64 of the cathode flow plates 20 for providing cooling axially between the cooling channels 74, 76, 78 of the anode flow plate 22 to the transport channels 62, 64 of the cathode flow plate 20 and between the cooling channels 74, 76, 78 of the cathode flow plate 20 to the transport channels 62, 64 of the anode flow plate 22.
US08623563B2 Method for starting-up solid oxide fuel cell system
An SOFC system is started-up efficiently in a short time while letting a hydrogen concentration in a reformed gas high. A method for starting-up an SOFC system including a reformer having a reforming catalyst, and an SOFC which uses the reformed gas as a fuel, in which, catalyst A having POX function and catalyst B having SR function are used as the reforming catalyst, the method including the steps of: increasing the temperature of catalyst A, by combustion heat or electricity, to a temperature at which POX reaction can proceed; increasing the temperature of catalyst B by POX reaction heat, increasing the temperature of SOFC by feeding the reformed gas to an anode and heating catalyst B by combustion heat generated from combustion of a reformed gas discharged from the anode, or increasing the temperature of catalyst B by POX reaction heat, increasing the temperature of SOFC by feeding a combustion gas produced from combustion of the reformed gas to a cathode and heating catalyst B by this combustion gas; and reducing the proportion of POX reaction or stopping POX reaction and perform SR, after catalyst B is heated to a temperature at which SR reaction can proceed.
US08623562B2 Method and arrangement to reduce the consumption of safety gas in a fuel cell system
A method and system are disclosed for reducing the consumption of safety gas in a fuel cell system having at least one fuel cell unit whose fuel cells include an anode side and a cathode side, as well as an electrolyte interposed therebetween. A supply is provided for supplying the anode with a safety gas, and an exhaust is provided for exhausting the fuel cell unit of a spent safety gas coming from the anode side. The method can adapt a specific percentage of the spent safety gas flow coming from the anode side of the fuel cells to be re-supplied into the anode side of the fuel cells.
US08623561B2 Acid dilution device in condenser of phosphoric acid fuel cell
The condenser heat exchanger includes a housing that provides a gaseous stream flowpath and a bottom wall. A gaseous stream contains acid. The housing has a fluid inlet configured to introduce a liquid, such as water. A coolant tube is disposed within the housing in the gaseous stream flowpath and provides a coolant path. Acid condenses on and falls from the coolant tube into a collection area that is provided at the bottom wall near the coolant tube. The collection area is configured to maintain storage of a predetermined amount of fluid that includes the liquid, which dilutes the condensed acid.
US08623557B2 Lithium anodes for electrochemical cells
Provided is an anode for use in electrochemical cells, wherein the anode active layer has a first layer comprising lithium metal and a multi-layer structure comprising single ion conducting layers and polymer layers in contact with the first layer comprising lithium metal or in contact with an intermediate protective layer, such as a temporary protective metal layer, on the surface of the lithium-containing first layer. Another aspect of the invention provides an anode active layer formed by the in-situ deposition of lithium vapor and a reactive gas. The anodes of the current invention are particularly useful in electrochemical cells comprising sulfur-containing cathode active materials, such as elemental sulfur.
US08623555B2 Electrode useable in electrochemical cell and method of making same
In one aspect of the present invention, an electrode useable in an electrochemical cell includes an electrically conductive substrate, nanostructured current collectors in electrical contact with the conductive substrate, and nanoparticles of a ternary orthosilicate composite coated on the nanostructured current collectors. The ternary orthosilicate composite comprises Li2MnxFeyCozSiO4, where x+y+z=1.
US08623550B2 Secondary battery and method for manufacturing electrode of the same
Provided is a secondary battery including an electrode including silicon or a silicon compound. The electrode includes, for example, a current collector formed using metal and a silicon film as an active material provided over the current collector. The hydrogen concentration in the silicon film of the electrode may be higher than or equal to 1.0×1018 cm−3 and lower than or equal to 1.0×1021 cm−3. Such a silicon film is formed over a current collector by a plasma CVD method or the like for example, and hydrogen is contained as little as possible in the silicon film, which is preferable. In order to contain hydrogen as little as possible in the silicon film, the silicon film may be formed over the current collector under a high temperature environment.
US08623546B2 Electrode structure and battery device manufacturing method
An electrode is provided with a metal terminal extending from a battery module main body, a bolt which has an expanded section configuring a retaining section at a rear end portion and penetrates the metal terminal upward, and an insulating body which insulates the metal terminal and the battery module case one from the other. The insulating body is provided with a drop preventing section which abuts at least a lower surface of the expanded section of the bolt and prevents the bolt from dropping from the metal terminal.
US08623543B2 Electric vehicle propulsion system and method utilizing solid-state rechargeable electrochemical cells
A vehicle propulsion system comprising a plurality of solid state rechargeable battery cells configured to power a drivetrain. In accordance with once aspect of the invention, a transportation system that is powered at least in part by electricity stored in the form of rechargeable electrochemical cells. According to an embodiment of the present invention, these cells are combined in series and in parallel to form a pack that is regulated by charge and discharge control circuits that are programmed with algorithms to monitor state of charge, battery lifetime, and battery health.
US08623542B2 PCM of improved assembling type structure and battery pack employed with the same
Disclosed herein is a protection circuit module (PCM) including a protection circuit for controlling overcharge, overdischarge, and overcurrent of a battery, wherein a pair of connection members are attached to the bottom of the PCM, while the connection members are electrically connected to the protection circuit, the connection members being constructed by bending a sheet material into a predetermined shape, to form groove-shaped connection structures into which plate-shaped electrode terminals of a battery cell are inserted and coupled. Each of the connection members includes a lower connection plate, a pair of rear extensions, and front extensions.
US08623536B2 Battery module with partitioning wall therein
A battery module, including at least one unit battery having an electrode group and a battery casing, and at least one partitioning wall coupled to the at least one unit battery, wherein the at least one partitioning wall has a smaller size as compared to the at least one unit battery. The battery module may further include a plurality of alternating unit batteries and partitioning walls having at least one fixing member coupled to each unit battery.
US08623532B2 Rechargeable battery
In a rechargeable battery, a case is combined with an upper surface of a bare cell by being fixed to a lead plate electrically coupling a protection circuit board of a protection circuit module to the bare cell. Alternatively, the case is combined with the bare cell by being fixed to the protection circuit board so as not to be separated from the bare cell, thereby improving the reliability of the products.
US08623529B2 Method of producing a perpendicular magnetic recording medium and perpendicular magnetic recording medium
An object of the present invention is to provide a perpendicular magnetic recording medium including a suitable lubricating layer with sufficient durability, moisture resistance, and contamination resistance and also maintaining an R/W characteristic. In a typical structure of the present invention, a method of manufacturing a perpendicular magnetic recording medium 100 including a magnetic recording layer 122, a medium protective layer 126, and a lubricating layer 128 in this order on a base 110 includes: a CF bond density measuring step of measuring a CF bond density of a lubricant; and a lubricating layer forming step of forming a lubricating layer with the lubricant when the measured CF bond density is 2.0×1022 to 2.7×1022 atoms/cm3.
US08623528B2 Method of manufacturing perpendicular magnetic recording medium and perpendicular magnetic recording medium
An object of the present invention is to provide a method of manufacturing a perpendicular magnetic recording medium (100) in which both of a coercive force Hc and reliability can be achieved at a higher level even with heating at the time of forming a medium protective layer (126) and to provide the perpendicular magnetic recording medium (100). Thus, in a typical structure of the present invention, in the method of manufacturing the perpendicular magnetic recording medium (100) including at least a magnetic recording layer (122b), which is a ferromagnetic layer of a granular structure in which a non-magnetic grain boundary part is formed between crystal grains each grown in a columnar shape, and a medium protective layer (126) with carbon hydride as a main component in this order on a disk base (110), the method includes a magnetic recording layer forming step of forming the magnetic recording layer (122b) so that the grain boundary part contains oxides of a plurality of types and a medium protective layer forming step of forming the medium protective layer (126) in a state where the disk base (110) having the magnetic recording layer (122b) formed thereon is heated at 160 to 200 degrees Celsius.
US08623524B2 Organic electroluminescent device
An organic electroluminescence device comprising a cathode, an anode and at least one layer comprising a phosphorescent light emitting material and a host material which is sandwiched between the cathode and the anode and further comprising an electron injecting layer which is adhered to the light emitting layer and is capable of transporting electrons, wherein an ionization potential of the host material is 5.9 eV or smaller, and wherein an energy gap of the electron transporting material in the electron injecting layer is smaller than that of the host material in the light emitting layer or wherein a triplet energy of the electron transporting material in the electron injecting layer is smaller than that of the host material in the light emitting layer. It emits phosphorescent light with enhanced efficiency because it comprises a light emitting layer and an electron injecting layer both satisfying specified condition and employs a light emitting layer capable of electron transporting.
US08623520B2 Fused aromatic derivative and organic electroluminescence device using the same
A fused aromatic derivative shown by the following formula (1): wherein Ra and Rb are independently a hydrogen atom or a substituent, p is an integer of 1 to 8 and q is an integer of 1 to 11, and when p and q are two or more, Ras and Rbs may be independently the same or different, and adjacent substituents Ras may form a ring, L1 is a single bond or a substituted or unsubstituted divalent linking group, and Ar1 is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group having 6 to 50 ring carbon atoms or a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl group having 5 to 50 ring atoms, provided that when L1 is a single bond and at least one of Ras is not a hydrogen atom, Ar1 is not a triphenylenyl group, and provided that substituents of L1 and Ar1, and Ra and Rb contain no amino group.
US08623507B2 Increased bulk density powders and polymers containing them
The invention provides a treated powder having improved loose bulk density comprising a silanized inorganic powder treated with a long chain fatty acid or salts thereof, wherein the amount of the long chain fatty acid is about 0.25% to about 2 wt %, based on the total weight of the treated powder.
US08623503B2 Chromium-free rust-inhibitive surface treatment agent for metal parts with zinc surfaces and metal parts with zinc surfaces coated with rust-inhibitive surface coated film
Disclosed is a chromium-free rust-inhibitive surface treatment agent to form a siliceous film that rarely cracks or peels off and yields an excellent rust-inhibitive performance on zinc surfaces of a metal part. The chromium-free rust-inhibitive surface treatment agent is an alcoholic solution of alkoxysilane oligomer having weight-averaged molecular weight of 1,000 to 10,000, and 2.5 to 15% of silicon in molecules of the alkoxysilane oligomer has been replaced with titanium. To prepare partly titanium-replaced alkoxysilane oligomer, titanium compound, in which about a half of alkoxy groups in titanium tetraalkoxide has been chelated, is reacted with tetraalkoxysilane monomer or alkoxysilane oligomer in the alcoholic solution.
US08623502B2 Clear-coated stainless steel sheet with excellent pressure mark resistance and scratch resistance
This clear-coated stainless steel sheet includes: a stainless steel sheet; and a clear-coated film coated on either one or both of two main surfaces of the stainless steel sheet, wherein the clear-coated film contains a thermosetting resin composition (A) and resin beads (B) at a content in a range of 0.5 parts by mass to 4.0 parts by mass relative to 100 parts by mass of a solid content of the thermosetting resin composition (A), the thermosetting resin composition (A) includes an acrylic resin (A1) and a cross-linked curing resin (A2) composed of a blocked isocyanate resin and an amino resin which cross-link and cure the acrylic resin (A1), the acrylic resin (A1) includes one or more cross-linking functional groups selected from a hydroxyl group, a carboxylic group, and an alkoxy silane group, and the acrylic resin (A1) has a glass transition temperature of 30° C. to 90° C., and has a number average molecular weight of 3000 to 50000.
US08623501B2 Lignocellulose materials having good mechanical properties
A process for the production of a lignocellulose-containing material, in which, based in each case on the lignocellulose-containing material: A) from 30 to 95% by weight of lignocellulose particles; B) from 1 to 25% by weight of expanded plastic particles having a bulk density in the range from 10 to 150 kg/m3; C) from 1 to 50% by weight of a binder selected from the group consisting of aminoplast resin, phenol-formaldehyde resin and organic isocyanate having at least two isocyanate groups, and optionally D) additives are mixed and are then pressed at elevated temperature and under elevated pressure, wherein the component B) comprises a formaldehyde scavenger.
US08623499B2 Thin films including nanoparticles with solar reflectance properties for building materials
Disclosed are solar-reflective building materials, including roofing articles, that include nanoparticle-containing thin films; such articles display high reflectance of near-infrared radiation and high transmission of radiation in the visible light range so as to reduce the heat island effects experienced by the articles while also maintaining an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Also disclosed are related methods of fabricating such articles.
US08623498B2 Transparent electroconductive laminate and transparent touch panel
A transparent conductive laminate for obtaining a transparent touch panel improved in the durability in writing which has been required of conventional transparent touch panels and in durability in writing in marginal regions of the transparent touch panel (margin pushing durability). Also provided is a transparent touch panel employing the laminate. The transparent conductive laminate comprises a polymer film and, superposed on at least one side thereof in the following order, a cured resin layer, a transparent conductive layer (1), and another transparent conductive layer (2). The transparent conductive layer (1) is a crystalline transparent conductive layer containing no organic ingredient. The transparent conductive layer (2) comprises: an ionizing-radiation-cured resin, thermoplastic resin, polymer of a metal alkoxide other than alkoxysilanes, or thermally cured/crosslinked resin; and at least one kind of fine particles (A) of a conductive metal oxide or metal which have an average primary-particle diameter of 100 nm or smaller.
US08623497B2 Touch screen panel and fabricating method for the same
A touch screen panel, including a substrate having a plurality of sensing patterns thereon, and an anti-reflection layer on the substrate, the anti-reflection layer including at least two inorganic materials and having a stacked structure of at least two layers having different refractive indexes, layers of the anti-reflection layer being divided from a mixture by a difference in specific gravity of the least two inorganic materials.
US08623487B2 Modular synthetic grass turf assembly
A portable synthetic grass turf assembly—that is capable of being assembled, transported, disassembled, and stored—includes a plurality of synthetic grass module units that can be laid side by side atop a base surface to provide a continuous synthetic grass surface for various activities. Each module unit includes a synthetic grass turf with an infill layer of particulate materials disposed among the synthetic grass ribbons and atop a base sheet. A barrier of synthetic ribbons extends about the perimeter of the module unit to retain the particulate material within the module unit during its transportation and storage.
US08623485B2 Adhesive unit for emblem, method of producing the same, jig for adhering emblem and emblem for adhesion
The present invention provides an adhesive unit for emblem, which includes: a plurality of double-faced adhesive pieces each having a shape corresponding to a shape of a respective one of a plurality of emblem pieces; a first release film attached to a face of each of the plurality of double-faced adhesive pieces to be adhered to an emblem, so that a mutual positional relationship of the plurality of double-faced adhesive pieces is maintained; and a second release film attached to the other face of each of the plurality of double-faced adhesive pieces opposite to the face to be adhered to the emblem. The present invention also provides a method of producing the adhesive unit for emblem, a jig for adhering emblem, and an emblem for adhesion.
US08623482B2 Coated pipe with high throughput using multimodal ethylene copolymer
The present invention deals with coated pipes having a layer of multimodal polyethylene. The multimodal ethylene copolymer is a copolymer of ethylene with one or more alpha-olefin comonomers having from 4 to 10 carbon atoms and has a weight average molecular weight of from 70000 g/mol to 250000 g/mol, the ratio of the weight average molecular weight to the number average molecular weight, Mw/Mn, of from 15 to 50, a melt index MFR2 of from 0.05 g/10 min to 5 g/10 min, a melt index MFR5 of from 0.5 to 10 g/10 min and a density of from 930 kg/m to 955 kg/m3. Further, the multimodal ethylene copolymer comprises the multimodal ethylene copolymer comprises from 49 to 59% based on the weight of the multimodal ethylene copolymer a low molecular weight ethylene homopolymer component, said low molecular weight ethylene homopolymer having a weight average molecular weight of from 5000 g/mol to 70000 g/mol; and from 51 to 41% based on the weight of the multimodal ethylene copolymer a high molecular weight ethylene copolymer component, said high molecular weight ethylene copolymer having a weight average molecular weight of from 100000 g/mol to 700000 g/mol. The pipes can be coated with high throughput and good production economy. The coatings have good mechanical properties.
US08623481B2 Film with oxygen absorbing regions
A packaging material includes an oxygen scavenger material dispersed in bands in a polymer sheet.
US08623480B2 Hot melt adhesive compositions including olefinic polymer blends and articles including the same
A hot melt adhesive composition that includes a non functionalized amorphous poly alpha olefin polymer, a second polymer selected from the group including polypropylene homopolymers, polypropylene copolymers and combinations there of, a functionalized wax and a second wax.
US08623479B2 Packaging articles, films and methods that promote or preserve the desirable color of meat
Food packaging articles, food packaging films, and food packaging methods comprising a myoglobin blooming agent that promote or preserve the desirable appearance of food products are provided. The food contact layer of the packaging films comprises a myoglobin blooming agent.
US08623476B2 Polarizing element and method of producing the same
A polarizing element, containing: a transparent support; a light absorption anisotropic layer formed of a dichroic dye composition; and a transparent resin cured layer, with the layers being laminated in this order on the support, and with the composition containing at least one dichroic dye of formula (I) which has nematic mesomorphism but containing no liquid crystalline achromatic compound: wherein R1 to R4 are a hydrogen atom or a substituent; R5 and R6 are a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group; L1 represents —N═N—, —CH═N—, —N═CH—, —C(═O)O—, —OC(═O)— or —CH═CH—; A1 represents a phenyl, naphthyl or aromatic heterocyclic group; B1 represents a divalent aromatic hydrocarbon or divalent aromatic heterocyclic group; and n is an integer from 1 to 5.
US08623474B2 Liquid crystal display and method of manufacturing the same
A liquid crystal display utilizing a vertically aligned state of liquid crystal molecules when no voltage is applied and to a method of manufacturing the same. Objectives include providing a liquid crystal display and a method of manufacturing the same in which the existing step for forming vertical alignment films can be omitted to achieve a cost reduction. The liquid crystal display includes a monofunctional monomer having a structure expressed by X—R (where X represents an acrylate group or a methacrylate group, and R represents an organic group having a steroid skeleton). A liquid crystal material is sandwiched between substrates, which are then irradiated with ultraviolet rays to cure the monofunctional monomer, thereby forming a polymer film at an interface of a substrate. The monofunctional monomer has a hydrophobic skeleton such as an alkyl chain and a photoreactive group on one side of the skeleton.
US08623468B2 Methods of fabricating metal hard masks
Methods of fabricating a metal hard mask and a metal hard mask fabricated by such methods are described. The method includes flowing at least one metal reactant gas into a reaction chamber configured to perform chemical vapor deposition (CVD), wherein the at least one metal reactant gas includes a metal-halogen gas or a metal-organic gas. The method further includes depositing a hard mask metal layer by CVD using the at least one metal reactant gas.
US08623467B2 Tactile printing
A small home/office tactile printing system comprises a print head assembly and a paper feed assembly. The print head assembly includes a print head for printing with ink and an applicator for applying a liquid. The paper feed assembly moves paper (or any other medium suitable for printing) relative to the print head assembly and its components for printing the ink on the paper, applying the liquid to the medium and curing the liquid. The liquid is ultraviolet (UV) curable glue and curing is exposure of the UV liquid to UV light. The present invention also includes a variety of methods including a method for printing tactile information, a method for copying a document having tactile printing, a method for binding sheets of a media, a method for scratch-off printing and method for copying a bound document.
US08623462B2 Redispersible polymer powder composition
The present invention pertains to a water-redispersible polymer powder composition based on at least one synthetic polymer and at least one natural latex. Preferably, the polymer powder contains up to about 90 wt. % of at least one water-insoluble, synthetic polymer, up to about 90 wt. % of least one natural latex, about 0 to 50 wt. % of at least one protective colloid, about 2 to 50 wt. % of at least one filler and/or anti-caking agent, as well as optionally further additives. In addition, the invention pertains to a process for the preparation of the polymer powder composition, the use thereof as an additive in building material compositions, as well as building material compositions containing the polymer powder composition.
US08623460B2 Adhesion promoter
The present invention refers to a method of making an copper-free article having a metal coating deposited on a substrate comprising: providing a substrate; contacting a surface of said substrate with a solution comprising: at least one metal ion selected from the group consisting of Ce, Pr, Nd, Eu, Er, Ga, W, Al, Mn, Mo, Sb, Te, La, Sm or their mixtures; and applying a metal coating on said surface of said substrate. In another embodiment the present invention refers to a method of making a metal coated article: providing a substrate; contacting a surface of said substrate with a solution comprising a mixture of more than one metal ion selected from the same group as listed above; or contacting said surface of said substrate with more than one solution comprising in each solution at least one metal ion selected from the same group; and applying a metal coating on said surface of said substrate. Moreover, the present invention refers to a method of making a metal coated article comprising: providing a substrate; contacting a surface of said substrate with a solution comprising a Bi metal ion, and applying a metal coating on said activated surface of said substrate. Furthermore an article obtainable by any of said methods, is claimed.
US08623458B2 Methods of directed self-assembly, and layered structures formed therefrom
A layered structure comprising a self-assembled material is formed by a method that includes forming a photochemically, thermally and/or chemically treated patterned photoresist layer disposed on a first surface of a substrate. The treated patterned photoresist layer comprises a non-crosslinked treated photoresist. An orientation control material is cast on the treated patterned photoresist layer, forming a layer containing orientation control material bound to a second surface of the substrate. The treated photoresist and, optionally, any non-bound orientation control material are removed by a development process, resulting in a pre-pattern for self-assembly. A material capable of self-assembly is cast on the pre-pattern. The casted material is allowed to self-assemble with optional heating and/or annealing to produce the layered structure.
US08623456B2 Methods for atomic layer deposition
A method of depositing a thin film by atomic layer deposition (ALD) on a substrate surface is disclosed. The disclosed method includes placing an ALD deposition proximity head above the substrate with at least one gas channel configured to dispense a gas to an active process region of the substrate surface. The ALD deposition proximity head extends over and is being spaced apart from the active process region of the substrate surface when present. After a pulse of a first reactant gas is dispensed on the active process region of the substrate surface underneath the proximity head, a pulse of a second reactant gas is dispensed on the active process region of the substrate surface underneath the proximity head to react with the first reactant gas to form a portion of the thin layer of ALD film on the surface of substrate underneath the proximity head.
US08623450B2 Method for producing a flexible circuit configuration
For a method for producing a flexible circuit configuration in the form of a layer sequence of at least one insulating layer and at least one conductive layer, typically multiple insulating layers (N1, N2, N3, NF) and multiple structured conductive layers (L1, L2), the layer sequence for the flexible circuit configuration is deposited on a rigid substrate so that the adhesion of the layer sequence with respect to the substrate is less in an inner area, in which at least one, preferably multiple flexible circuit configurations are created, than in an edge area (RB) which surrounds the inner area (ZB). An intermediate layer can advantageously be deposited for this purpose in the edge area, which causes a stronger adhesion of the layer sequence over the edge area than the inner area, which is not provided with an intermediate layer.
US08623449B2 Method for producing laminated base material
A method for producing a laminated base material includes applying a liquid composition containing a solvent and a liquid crystal polyester to a substrate; and forming a covering material by removing the solvent. The substrate includes a conductor forming a circuit pattern on an insulating layer. The liquid composition covers the conductor. The polyester includes 30-50 mol % of (1), 25-35 mol % of (2), and 25-35 mol % of (3): -0-Ar1-00-  (1) —CO—Ar2-00-  (2) —X—Ar3—Y—  (3) wherein Ar1 is a phenylene or naphthylene group, Ar2 is a phenylene or naphthylene group, or (4), Ar3 is a phenylene group or (4), and X and Y each independently represent 0 or NH; and hydrogen atoms in Ar1, Ar2, or Ar3 are each substitutable with a halogen atom, or an alkyl or aryl group; —Ar11—Z—Ar12—  (4) wherein Ar11 and Ar12 each independently represent a phenylene or naphthylene group and Z represents 0, CO, or SO2.
US08623442B2 Palatable beverages and compositions with cocoa extract
The present subject matter relates to palatable beverages and compositions such as non-chocolate flavored water soluble dry powder compositions comprising a cocoa extract which comprises cocoa polyphenols, and an edible acid. The present subject matter further relates to processes for formulating said beverages and compositions.
US08623434B2 Astaxanthin-containing pet foods
There is provided pet food comprising astaxanthin and/or an ester thereof as an active component and having an effect of deodorizing excrement such as urine and feces, effects of improving sleep, sensibility such as perception and cognition, and visual sense, and an effect of treating, improving or preventing diabetes and diabetic complications. The pet food can deodorize excrement such as urine and feces, improve sleep, sensibility such as perception and cognition, and visual sense, and treat, improve or prevent diabetes and diabetic complications.
US08623424B2 Traditional Chinese medicinal compositions for treating depression, formulation thereof, method for preparing the same thereof
The present invention relates to a traditional Chinese medicinal composition for treating depression, which has a significant therapeutic effect and comprises as active components Fructus Gardeniae, Fructus Forsythiae, Rhizoma Pinelliae, and Cortex Magnoliae Officinalis. The present invention further concerns a method for the preparation of the composition, as well as a pharmaceutical formulation containing the composition.
US08623423B2 Boron-containing compositions
The present invention relates to boron-containing compositions. The invention relates to comminuted, heterogeneous boron-containing compositions which are obtainable by a process which comprises heating to a temperature sufficiently high that calcination occurs but insufficient for the formation of a homogeneous melt a mixture comprising components capable, under the conditions of heating, of forming the oxides B2O3 and SiO2 and optionally Al2O3, Na2O and/or CaO in proportions such that the relative percentages by weight of the said oxides, based on the total weight of said oxides, are as follows: 5 to 35% B2O3; 10 to 65% SiO2; 0 to 35% Al2O3; and up to 20% Na2O and/or up to 50% CaO; with the proviso that the said B2O3 content is not 10 to 18%, when the other contents are as follows: 40 to 65% SiO2, 17 to 32% Al2O3 4 to 9% Na2O, and 0 to 10% CaO, and then comminuting the resulting composition. By varying the proportions of the ingredients and the heating conditions, there may be obtained products of differing boron solubility characteristics according to the desired use of the products. Such compositions may be used as a source of boron in ceramics and heavy clay bodies, glass and fiberglass; in agriculture; as wood preservatives and pesticides; in polymers and rubbers; in wood, including wood-plastic composites; as flame retardant; in intumescent materials; in paints and coatings, in soaps and detergents; in cosmetics; in industrial fluids; in steel slag; in water treatment; and in gypsum wallboard as well as in glazes.
US08623422B2 Combination treatment with strontium for the prophylaxis and/or treatment of cartilage and/or bone conditions
A combination treatment, wherein a strontium-containing compound together with one or more active substances capable of reducing the incidence of bone fracture and/or increasing bone density and/or improving healing of fractured bone and/or improving bone quality are administered for use in the treatment and/or prophylaxis of cartilage and/or bone conditions.
US08623419B2 Technology for preparation of macromolecular microspheres
Microspheres are produced by contacting an aqueous solution of a protein or other macromolecule with an organic solvent and a counterion, and chilling the solution. The microspheres are useful for preparing pharmaceuticals of defined dimensions.
US08623418B2 Pharmaceutical composition
Provided herein is a pharmaceutical composition comprising an antagonist, an agonist, a seal coat, and a sequestering polymer, wherein the antagonist, agonist, seal coat and at least one sequestering polymer are all components of a single unit, and wherein the seal coat forms a layer physically separating the antagonist from the agonist from one another. Methods for manufacturing such a pharmaceutical composition are also provided. Methods for treating pain using such compositions is also demonstrated.
US08623414B2 Compositions comprising a lipid and copolymer of styrene and maleic acid
A composition comprising a lipid and copolymer of styrene and maleic acid, wherein the copolymer of styrene and maleic acid is non-alternating, and wherein the polymer and lipid are in the form of macromolecular assemblies.
US08623408B2 Cladribine formulations for improved oral and transmucosal delivery
Provided are compositions of cladribine and cyclodextrin which are especially suited for the oral and buccal administration of cladribine.
US08623407B2 Gabapentin-containing solid compositions and process for preparing the same
The present invention provides a stabilized solid composition containing a 4-amino 3-substituted-butanoic acid derivative which can be obtained by incorporating a humectant as a stabilizer.
US08623406B2 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.
US08623405B2 Finely divided composition containing poorly water soluble substance
The disclosed method involves preparation of a composition containing a poorly water soluble substance. The composition has a median diameter of not more than 1 μm, and includes (i) a poorly water soluble substance, (ii) polyvinylpyrrolidone or a vinylpyrrolidone-vinyl acetate copolymer, and (iii) an auxiliary dispersion stabilizer. By employing such constitution, a poorly water soluble substance is sufficiently micronized and a composition containing a poorly water soluble substance showing good absorbability of the poorly water soluble substance can be provided.
US08623403B2 Methods for regulating gelation of hydrogel solutions and uses thereof
The present invention provides a method for preparing chitosan and xylan composite thereto-gelling solutions to allow regulating the conditions in which the chitosan and xylan solution will gel. The present invention also provides methods for using chitosan/xylan solutions as compositions and for using chitosan/xylan solutions in vitro and in vivo. A thermally-responsive composite hydrogel has been developed and synthesized from the natural polymers chitosan and xylan. The new material is a viscous liquid at room temperature, but turns to a solid gel at physiological temperature (37 C). Rate of gelation is controlled with addition of a salt solution. Applications are for tissue engineering and local delivery of therapeutic agents, including proteins and drugs, as wells as cells.
US08623396B2 Compositions and methods for delivering clonidine and bupivacaine to a target tissue site
Effective treatments of pain for extended periods of time are provided. Through the administration of an effective amount of immediate release bupivacaine or lidocaine and a sustained release clonidine at or near a target site, one can relieve pain caused by diverse sources, including but not limited to spinal disc herniation (i.e. sciatica), spondilothesis, stenosis, discogenic back pain and joint pain. When appropriate formulations are provided within biodegradable polymers, this relief can be continued for at least three days. In some embodiments, the relief can be for at least twenty-five days, at least fifty days, at least one hundred days, at least one hundred and thirty-five days or at least one hundred and eighty days or longer.
US08623385B2 Solid oral formulations and crystalline forms of an inhibitor of apoptosis protein
The present disclosure relates to crystalline form of (S)—N—((S)-1-cyclohexyl-2-{(S)-2-[4-(4-fluoro-benzoyl)-thiazol-2-yl]-pyrrolidin-1-yl}-2-oxo-ethyl)-2-methylamino-propionamide, salts and hydrates thereof. This disclosure also relates to solid oral formulation of (S)—N—((S)-1-cyclohexyl-2-{(S)-2-[4-(4-fluoro-benzoyl)-thiazol-2-yl]-pyrrolidin-1-yl}-2-oxo-ethyl)-2-methylamino-propionamide, pharmaceutically acceptable salts, solvates (including hydrates) thereof, as well as methods of treatment using the same.
US08623380B2 Acellular pertussis vaccine with diphthriae- and tetanus-toxoids
The invention provides a diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis vaccine comprising a low dose of each of diphtheria toxoid (D), tetanus toxoid (T), pertussis toxin (PT), filamentous haemagglutinin (FHA) and pertactin (69K). The vaccine maintains an ability to prevent pertussis while showing exceptionally low reactogenicity. Combination vaccines comprising additional antigens are also provided.
US08623377B2 Joint-homing peptides and uses thereof
The present invention provides peptides that home to a joint of an animal, wherein said peptide comprises an amino acid motif selected from the group consisting of NQR and ADK. Also provided are methods of treating a subject having an arthritic joint, comprising the step of administering to said subject a pharmacologically effective dose of a composition provided herein.
US08623371B2 Targeting poly-gama-glutamic acid to treat Staphylococcus epidermidis and related infections
Immunogenic compositions and methods for eliciting an immune response against S. epidermidis and other related staphylococci are provided. The immunogenic compositions can include immunogenic conjugates of poly-γ-glutamic acid (such as γDLPGA) polypeptides of S. epidermidis, or related staphylococci that express a γPGA polypeptide. The γPGA conjugates elicit an effective immune response against S. epidermidis, or other staphylococci, in subjects to which the conjugates are administered. A method of treating an infection caused by a Staphylococcus organism that expresses cap genes is also disclosed. The method can include selecting a subject who is at risk of or has been diagonosed with the infection by the Staphylococcus organism which expresses γPGA from the cap genes. Further, the expression of a γPGA polypeptide by the organism can then be altered.
US08623367B2 Antibody formulation
The present invention relates to novel pharmaceutical formulations, in particular novel pharmaceutical formulations in which the active ingredient comprises human antibodies to human interleukin I beta (IL-1β), in particular ACZ885 antibody, pharmaceutical formulations which are stable and aggregate-free upon storage and delivery.
US08623366B2 Methods for treating visceral pain by administering antagonist antibodies directed against calcitonin gene-related peptide
The invention features methods for preventing or treating visceral pain, including pain associated with functional bowel disorder, inflammatory bowel disease and interstitial cystitis, by administering an anti-CGRP antagonist antibody.
US08623364B2 Antigenic GM-CSF peptides and antibodies to GM-CSF
Hybridoma lines that secrete human monoclonal antibodies with high binding specificity and biological activity, particularly neutralizing activity against granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor, and methods of generating the hybridoma lines are provided. Target antigens and epitopes are also provided. The antibodies may be used in therapeutic methods, for example in the treatment of cancer, infectious disease, or autoimmune disease.
US08623351B2 Compositions comprising vascular and myocyte progenitor cells and methods of their use
The invention provides compositions of adult cardiac vascular progenitor cells (VPCs) and adult cardiac myocyte progenitor cells (MPCs) useful for the treatment of various cardiac conditions. The invention also encompasses methods of generating a biological bypass, repairing damaged myocardium, and treating or preventing hypertensive cardiomyopathy and heart failure with the compositions of the invention. Methods of isolating the cardiac progenitor cells are also disclosed.
US08623349B2 Systems, methods and microrganisms for antibody production with type III secretion system
Exemplary embodiments disclosed herein include a microorganism that produces, secretes and injects recombinant antibodies into eukaryote cells said the described microorganisms can be used to prepare pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment of human or veterinary diseases.
US08623348B2 Interferon-α (IFN-α) fused proteins comprising IFN-α and a cytoplasmic transduction peptide (CTP)
Disclosed is an interferon-α (IFN-α) fused protein having IFN-α fused to a cytoplasmic transduction peptide (CTP). The disclosure relates to a fused protein wherein a CTP, which binds well to cell-membrane barriers and enables translocation into the liver, is genetically fused to a human IFN-α, thereby enhancing the conjugation capacity of cell membranes and antiviral activity, inhibiting CTP transport into the cell nucleus, and enhancing the translocation and settlement of the fused protein into the liver and of transduction to the liver tissue. Accordingly, it is possible to develop protein-based medicines effective for preventing or treating various liver diseases associated with viral infection at low doses.
US08623346B1 Animal attractant compositions, devices, systems and methods
Animal attractant compositions, devices, systems and methods that can be deployed to attract game animals, such as deer by stimulating several of the animal's senses to attract animals to a desired location. The invention can use a combination of ultraviolet brighteners for visual interest and one or more of deer urine based scents, foods, mineral or salt. The invention capitalizes on the link between many animals' ability to see ultraviolet light with their desire to visualize urine territory markers left by other animals of the same species.
US08623345B2 Terminally-functionalized conjugates and uses thereof
The present disclosure provides inter alia conjugates of formula (I): wherein n, R1, R2, Rx, Z, X, Y and Z are as defined herein. A conjugate of formula (I) can also be converted to a conjugate of formulae (II) or (III) as described herein. Without limitation, the conjugates can be used to make controlled release materials and chemical sensors.
US08623343B2 Highly cationic copolymers based on quaternized nitrogen-containing monomers
The present invention relates to a copolymer with high cationic charge based on quaternized nitrogen-containing monomers, to cosmetic or pharmaceutical compositions which comprise at least one such copolymer, and to further uses of these copolymers.
US08623342B1 Naturally derived citrate polyesters
The present invention is directed to a series of polymeric citrate esters that has very unique rheology properties. These materials find applications as additives to formulations in personal care products where there is a desire to have a structured film and flow properties. These compounds by virtue of their unique structure provide outstanding skin feel and outstanding waterproof properties in cosmetic formulations most notable sunscreens.
US08623329B1 Method for the treatment of lung tumors
The present invention provides a method of inhibiting cancer growth in the lungs of a mammal through the inhalation administration of aerosol particles of an anti-cancer drug formulation. Further, the present invention provides a formulation for aerosol delivery that comprises a combination of paclitaxel, α-tocopheryl succinate; sorbitan trioleate, ethanol, and carbon dioxide. Prior studies have indicated that aerosol administration of cancer drugs holds great potential as a treatment modality, both for lung cancer and for lung metastases of other cancers. Practice of the invention has been demonstrated using a mouse model of lung cancer, in which intrapulmonary deposition of paclitaxel by aerosol inhalation reduced lung tumor size and increased body weight in tumor-bearing mice.
US08623325B2 Azide modified charge sensitive channel proteins
The present invention describes the modification of polypeptides, more particularly channel proteins with a thiol reactive agent so as to introduce an azide group. The present invention further describes vesicles comprising channel proteins modified according to the invention, which upon reaction with a phosphine open up thereby releasing the content of the vesicles. The reagents, polypeptides and vesicles described in the present invention have in vivo and in vitro applications in both drug delivery and imaging.
US08623324B2 Luminescent dyes with a water-soluble intramolecular bridge and their biological conjugates
Chemically reactive dyes that are intramolecularly crosslinked with a water-soluble bridge, their bioconjugates and their uses are described. Reactive fluorescent dyes that have a water-soluble bridge are superior to those of conjugates of spectrally non-crosslinked dyes or the dyes that are crosslinked with a hydrophobic bridge. The invention includes reactive fluorescent dyes, their biological conjugates and uses.
US08623323B2 Thickened beverages for dysphagia
The present invention relates to thickened beverage compositions. More particularly the invention relates to beverage compositions thickened for the management of dysphagia. More particularly this invention relates to the production of thickened beverages by a dispensing machine that is also capable of dispensing non-thickened beverages.
US08623322B2 Non-invasive diagnostic agents and methods of diagnosing infectious disease
The present invention is directed to novel non-invasive diagnostic tools to diagnose numerous infectious disease states or conditions. The present invention represents a clear advance in the art which presently relies on tissue biopsy for diagnoses of these disease states. The novel imaging probe is capable of detecting infected cells, as well tissue. This represents a quantum step forward in the diagnosis and staging of NHL using non-invasively molecular imaging techniques. This novel probe will also be useful to monitor patients response to therapeutic treatments and other interventions or therapies used in the treatment of these disease states or conditions. Compounds according to the present invention may be used as diagnostic tools for a number of conditions and diseases states as well as therapeutic agents for treating such conditions and disease states. Pharmaceutical compositions are also described.
US08623321B1 UZM-44 aluminosilicate zeolite
A new family of aluminosilicate zeolites designated UZM-44 has been synthesized. These zeolites are represented by the empirical formula. NanMmk+TtAl1-xExSiyOz where “n” is the mole ratio of Na to (Al+E), M represents a metal or metals from zinc, Group 1, Group 2, Group 3 and or the lanthanide series of the periodic table, “m” is the mole ratio of M to (Al+E), “k” is the average charge of the metal or metals M, T is the organic structure directing agent or agents, and E is a framework element such as gallium. These zeolites are similar to IM-5 but are characterized by unique compositions and synthesis procedures and have catalytic properties for carrying out various hydrocarbon conversion processes and separation properties for carrying out various separations.
US08623320B2 Mg-Ti-Al composite metal hydroxide having a laminated structure, and a production method therefore
The present invention relates to a novel Mg—Ti—Al composite metal hydroxide and to production method therefor. Mg—Ti—Al composite hydroxide particles can be obtained by subjecting a solution containing a magnesium salt and a titanium salt to ultrasound processing and carrying out a high-temperature and high-pressure reaction with a solution containing an aluminum salt in the proportions of the metal elements comprised in the Mg—Ti—Al composite metal hydroxide, thereby giving the advantageous effects that the halogen capturing ability is excellent and, when used in a polymer, degradation and early-staining prevention properties and transparency are outstanding.
US08623319B2 Process for directly producing sulfur trioxide and sulfuric acid using gypsum as raw material
Provided is a process for directly producing sulfur trioxide and sulfuric acid from gypsum. Sulfur trioxide is directly substituted with silicon dioxide by thermal or light-quantum activation, which is assisted with catalytic activation, while restraining reducing atmosphere and removing the resultant sulfur trioxide in time. The resultant sulfur trioxide is then used as raw material to produce sulfuric acid by a well-known method in prior art. The process has the advantages of simplified operational steps, little investment, low energy consumption and manufacturing cost, and low environmental pollution.
US08623316B2 Combined solid waste, carbon dioxide quicklime sparging, brine water, and reverse osmosis/ion exchange processes for the production of soda chemicals
The proposed invention uses a classical chemical equation where carbon dioxide CO2 is reacted with quick lime Ca(OH)2 to produce soda carb NaHCO3 and concentrating it to 6% using advanced membrane and resin technology. The invention requires three chemicals CO2, Ca(OH)2, and sodium chloride NaCl to produce NaHCO3. The output of many industrial processes lacks waste heat and in many instances CO2 and the present invention combines a solid waste processing unit to the above processes which allows the production of solid products or high % liquors. Availability of waste heat sources can lead to high efficiency in NaHCO3, Na2CO3, and NaOH production. The process is not chloro-alkali electrochemical or Solvay column ammonia processing technique. Advanced membrane uses technologies of reverse osmosis and nanofiltration systems while resin technology uses ion exchange systems. Therefore, we conveniently call it the solid waste-quicklime membrane SWQM process.
US08623309B2 Methods of preparing clusterboron
The invention provides new methods for synthesis of ClusterBoron (B18H22). Preferred methods of the invention include in situ generation of the conjugate acid of B20H182− and degradation of the acid in solution to produce B18H22 in high yields and high purity. The invention further provides isotopically enriched boranes, particularly isotopically enriched 10B)18H22 and 11B18H22.
US08623305B2 Method for controlling an injection device for feeding an ammonia-releasing reducing agent into an exhaust-gas purification system of an internal combustion engine
The present disclosure relates to a method for controlling an injection device for feeding an ammonia-releasing reducing agent into an exhaust-gas purification system of an internal combustion engine for the purpose of reducing the nitrogen oxide emissions, wherein the exhaust-gas purification system comprises at least one SCR catalytic converter with n cells which are arranged in series in the exhaust-gas throughflow direction and in which ammonia can be stored.
US08623302B2 Barium containing granules for sorption applications
A method for preparation of a getter material on the basis of intermetallic compounds of barium is described. The method comprises preparing a melt of a ternary mixture containing barium, metal and sodium; directionally solidifying the melt to produce a textured ingot; granulating the textured ingot, thereby obtaining granules having open-ended voids extending therethrough; and evaporating the sodium from the granules by applying a thermovacuum treatment to the granules. The textured ingot comprises a getter body made of intermetallic compounds of barium; and open-ended voids within the getter body.
US08623300B2 Biopsy support with sectionable resilient cellular material
A histologic tissue sample support device includes a tissue support formed of material that can be successfully sectioned in a microtome and is resistant to degradation from solvents and chemicals used to fix, process and stain tissue. A resilient cellular material is coupled to the tissue support and is configured to engage and retain tissue in place during processing and embedding. The resilient cellular material is also capable of successful sectioning in the microtome and porous to allow infiltration of the solvents and chemicals used to fix, process and stain tissue, and of embedding material used to embed the tissue while the tissue is retained by the resilient cellular material.
US08623299B2 Tissue treating apparatus
The present invention solves a problem of conventional tissue treating apparatuses: liquid chemicals which have been used given times and have become useless in a tissue specimen infiltration treatment and a cleaning liquid which has been used given times and has decreased in cleaning ability are required to be separately discarded/replaces. The tissue treating apparatus (10), which supplies given liquid chemicals to and discharges the same from a processing chamber (12) containing a tissue specimen so as to perform the tissue specimen infiltration treatment, comprises: liquid-chemical reservoirs (14, 16) for storing the liquid chemicals to be used in the infiltration treatment; cleaning-liquid reservoirs (19, 21) for storing the liquid chemicals which have become useless in the tissue specimen infiltration treatment and which are usable as cleaning liquids for removing a residual liquid chemical remaining in the processing chamber (12); and cleaning means for supplying the liquid chemicals in the cleaning-liquid reservoirs (19, 21) to and discharging the same from the processing chamber (12) so as to clean the inside of the processing chamber (12).
US08623296B2 Microfluidic size-exclusion devices, systems, and methods
Microfluidic devices, assemblies, and systems are provided, as are methods of manipulating micro-sized samples of fluids. Microfluidic devices having a plurality of specialized processing features are also provided.
US08623295B2 Microfluidic system including a bubble valve for regulating fluid flow through a microchannel
A microfluidic system includes a bubble valve for regulating fluid flow through a microchannel. The bubble valve includes a fluid meniscus interfacing the microchannel interior and an actuator for deflecting the membrane into the microchannel interior to regulate fluid flow. The actuator generates a gas bubble in a liquid in the microchannel when a sufficient pressure is generated on the membrane.
US08623294B2 Flow passage control mechanism for microchip
A channel control mechanism for a microchip has a laminated structure formed of members including elastic members, and includes: a sample reservoir for packing a sample therein; a reaction reservoir in which mixture and reaction of the sample are performed; and a channel formed in a middle layer of the laminated structure, for bringing the sample reservoir and the reaction reservoir into communication with each other. The channel control mechanism performs the reaction and analysis in such a manner that the sample is delivered into the reaction reservoir through the channel. A shutter channel (pressurizing channel) is provided in a layer different from a layer in which the channel is formed so that the pressurizing channel partially overlaps the channel. The channel is closed through applying a pressurized medium to the shutter channel (pressurizing channel), and the channel is opened through releasing a pressure of the pressurized medium.
US08623291B2 Multiple analyte assay device
The present invention relates to an assay device capable of testing for multiple analytes such as drugs using individual test strips for each analyte.
US08623290B2 Color-changing materials and multiple component materials having a color-changing composition
The present invention relates to a color-changing material and to a multiple-component material that includes a color-changing composition. The color-changing materials and color-changing compositions are capable of changing color in order to indicate a change in condition, such as a change in pH. The color-changing materials and color-changing compositions include a hydrogel-forming composition, a charged colorant and a pH adjuster. The hydrogel-forming composition includes at least one charged species.
US08623288B1 Apparatus and methods for high density nanowire growth
Methods and apparatus for high density nanowire growth are presented. Methods of making a nanowire growth cartridge assembly are also provided, as are nanowire growth cartridge assemblies.
US08623286B2 System for collecting carbon dioxide in flue gas
A system for collecting carbon dioxide in flue gas includes a stack that discharges flue gas discharged from an industrial facility to outside, a blower that is installed at the downstream side of the stack and draws the flue gas therein, a carbon-dioxide collecting device that collects carbon dioxide in the flue gas drawn in by the blower, and a gas flow sensor arranged near an exit side within the stack. A drawing amount of the flue gas by the blower to the carbon-dioxide collecting device is increased until an flow rate of the flue gas from the stack becomes zero in the gas flow sensor, and when the discharged amount of flue gas from the stack becomes zero, drawing in any more than that amount is stopped, and the carbon dioxide in the flue gas is collected while the flue gas is drawn in by a substantially constant amount.
US08623285B2 Ammonia flame cracker system, method and apparatus
Apparatus, methods and systems reside in the decomposition of ammonia into a hydrogen-containing product mixture. An ammonia-rich gaseous mixture containing ammonia and oxygen enters a conduit, within which combustion and decomposition of the mixture is initiated, thereby liberating hydrogen. A mixture of products, resulting from the reactions, is expelled from the outlet of the conduit, the mixture including non-combusted hydrogen gas, which may then be used for other purposes. The incoming reactants, including ammonia and oxygen, are heat exchanged with the outgoing product mixture containing non-combusted hydrogen gas.
US08623282B2 Device and methods for quantifying analytes
The present invention relates to devices and methods for measuring the quantity of multiple analytes in a sample. The device is designed such that each of the analyte sensing elements is configured to measure the quantity of a predetermined analyte and where the machine executable instructions are configured to select the proper analyte sensing element corresponding to the analyte to be measured.
US08623280B2 Method and apparatus for monitoring alteration of flow characteristics in a liquid sample
A device for measuring blood coagulation time is formed from a first substrate; a second substrate; a spacer layer disposed between the first and second substrates, said spacer layer having an opening formed therein defining a sample receiving chamber, a vented sink chamber, and an elongated reservoir forming a conduit for liquid movement between the sample receiving chamber and the sink chamber; a first electrode disposed on the first substrate, said first electrode being exposed in the reservoir portion through a first opening in the spacer layer; and a second electrode disposed on the second substrate, said second electrode being exposed in the reservoir portion through a second opening in the spacer layer. The device of the invention is used in combination with an apparatus that is connected to the first and second electrodes for measuring current flow between the first and second electrodes. Changes in observed current are indicative of flow through the device, and a cessation of flow indicates coagulation.
US08623279B2 Ionic liquid mediated sol-gel sorbents
Ionic liquid (IL)-mediated sol-gel hybrid organic-inorganic materials present enormous potential for effective use in analytical microextraction. One obstacle to materializing this prospect arises from high viscosity of ILs significantly slowing down sol-gel reactions. A method was developed which provides phosphonium-based, pyridinium-based, and imidazolium-based IL-mediated advanced sol-gel organic-inorganic hybrid materials for capillary microextraction. Scanning electron microscopy results demonstrate that ILs can serve as porogenic agents in sol-gel reactions. IL-mediated sol-gel coatings prepared with silanol-terminated polymers provided up to 28 times higher extractions compared to analogous sol-gel coatings prepared without any IL in the sol solution. This study shows that IL-generated porous morphology alone is not enough to provide effective extraction media: careful choice of the organic polymer and the precursor with close sol-gel reactivity must be made to ensure effective chemical bonding of the organic polymer to the created sol-gel material to be able to provide the desired sorbent characteristics.
US08623278B2 System and method for the continuous extraction of a liquid phase of microsamples, and automated installation for taking them, for carrying out the extraction and taking measurements
A continuous automated extraction system and method for physically extracting at least one liquid phase of a series of liquid microsamples which are taken beforehand in discrete packets, both in space and in time, and are in stored is provided. The method may include an extraction system having a centrifuge provided with a plurality of microholders, at least one of which is filled with the corresponding microsample and includes a filling upper portion that is extended by a separating lower portion of smaller cross section than that of the upper portion. Each filled microholder has a mass which is more than ten times the mass of this microsample, in such a way that it is possible to extract, by centrifugation, at a given instant, only a single microsample contained in a single microholder, or several microsamples contained in some or all of these microholders, progressively as the latter are filled.
US08623275B2 Medical instrument disinfecting system
This disinfection system for medical instruments of the type comprising a disinfection chamber adapted to implement a cycle for disinfecting instruments, is characterized in that each instrument is associated with a radiofrequency label containing identification information and in that the chamber is associated with radiofrequency means for acquiring identification information about the or each instrument when put in place and removed from the chamber at the start and end of a disinfection cycle, with means of acquiring information characterizing the disinfection cycle and with means for combining identification information about the or each instrument with information characterizing the disinfection cycle in order to generate traceability information on the disinfection of the or each instrument.
US08623274B2 Chitosan-based hemostatic textile
A microfibrillar high molecular weight chitosan-based textile can be used as a hemostat. The chitosan has been treated in a nitrogen field by applying energy to ionize nitrogen in and around the chitosan textile. A single or multiple such treatments may be employed. For example, the chitosan textile may be irradiated under nitrogen using γ-irradiation, treated under a nitrogen plasma, or both.
US08623273B2 Methods for prevention and reduction of scale formation
Disclosed herein are methods of preventing or reducing scale formation or corrosion by combining at least one scale-forming fluid comprising at least one scaling compound with at least one anti-scale material chosen from at least one scale-adsorbent agent. The methods may reduce or prevent the formation of scale on surfaces of liquid-related process equipment, such as boilers and heat exchangers.
US08623272B2 Non-magnetic cobalt-palladium dental alloy
A non-magnetic cobalt based “noble” metal dental alloy is provided. The alloy generally contains at least 25 wt. % palladium, from 15 to 30 wt. % chromium and a balance of cobalt, where to ensure the alloy is non-magnetic the concentration of chromium in the alloy is at least 20 wt. %, or if the concentration of chromium is less than 20 wt. % the combined concentration of chromium, molybdenum, tungsten, niobium, tantalum vanadium and rhenium is greater than 20 wt. %.
US08623270B2 Dual outlet injection system
A dual outlet injector is disclosed for use in a dual lance or dual port desulfurization station, whereby reagent from a given injector vessel may be injected into two separate supply pipes respectively corresponding to the dual lances or dual ports. The dual outlet injector enables a desulfurization station to be configured comprising only one supply vessel for powdered magnesium reagent and only one supply vessel for a carrier reagent such as powdered lime.
US08623267B2 Pressure vessel
An improved molded, reinforced pressure vessel having a winding foot on the liner tank which includes a head, disposed away from the tank and a narrowed neck extending between the head and the tank wherein outer radial dimensions of the head are greater than outer radial dimension of the neck. The improved foot design allows windings to cover more of the liner tank that maximizes the reinforcement provided by the winding and in blow molded liner tanks, the narrow neck restricts the migration of material out of and away from the foot, thus producing a stronger liner tank.
US08623262B2 Method, system and molding tool for manufacturing components from composite fiber materials
In a method for manufacturing components from composite fiber materials, at least one placeholder is inserted into a recess in a molding tool, wherein the unfinished component is subsequently produced, the placeholder is removed, at least one lifting pad is inserted into the recess and the unfinished component is removed from the molding tool by inflating the lifting pad. In a system for manufacturing components from composite fiber materials, the component removal process is monitored and controlled by a computer unit in order to prevent predetermined maximum component loads from being exceeded. The gentle component removal process makes it possible to avoid consequential costs for repairing or reworking the components.
US08623261B2 Transforming process
A method of preparing a thermoformed article which is relatively isotropic in terms of shrinkage of the final thermoformed article along the sheet extrusion flow path (the longitudinal direction) and the transverse direction. The article is prepared from an isotactic polypropylene produced by the polymerization of propylene with an isospecific metallocene catalyst. The polymer has a melt flow rate within the range of 1-5 grams/10 minutes and a melting temperature of no more than 160° C. The polypropylene is extruded to provide a sheet which is oriented in at least one direction and has a thickness of 10-100 mils. The sheet is heated to a temperature of 135-160° C, and thermoformed in contact with a template having the desired configuration to produce the thermoformed article. The thermoformed article is then cooled and retrieved from the template to arrive at the final product.
US08623257B2 Formliner and method of use
A formliner, sheet, system, and methods of use and manufacture are provided in order to provide a product that can minimize and/or eliminate visible seaming between interconnected formliners during fabrication of a pattern on a curable material. In some embodiments, the formliner can comprise raised sections that define interrelated inner and outer dimensions. Thus, a plurality of formliners can be interconnected by overlaying raised sections thereof. Further, the formliner can comprise one or more detents and one or more protrusions to enable engagement between interconnected formliners without requiring adhesives. In this manner, formliners can be interconnected in a nested manner such that visible seaming between the interconnected formliners is reduced and/or eliminated.
US08623252B2 Method for manufacturing thermoplastic resin pre-impregnated fiber structure
A process of manufacturing a fibrous article includes submerging a fiber substrate in a bath of first thermoplastic resin to impregnate the fiber substrate with the first thermoplastic resin; heating the fiber substrate until the fiber substrate becomes a thick continuous fiber substrate; cutting the thick continuous fiber substrate into units; stacking the fiber substrate units; pressing and heating the stacked fibrous structure units until a stacked fibrous structure is formed; heating a mold; conveying the stacked fibrous structure to the mold to melt; cooling the mold to shape the molten fibrous structure into a half-finished article; removing the half-finished article out of the mold; eliminating burrs and sharp edges of the half-finished article; conveying the half-finished article to the mold; and uniformly applying a molten second thermoplastic resin on an inner surface of the half-finished article by injection molding to produce the finished fibrous article.
US08623249B2 Method for producing leather pellets and compound granules, and use thereof
A method for producing leather pellets, and a method for producing compound granules from leather pellets and a polymer material, for use in molded parts or films. The leather pellets are produced through the following steps: Shavings, crust leather remnants and finished leather waste are obtained as waste products in leather production and finished leather processing; the shavings, crust leather remnants and finished leather waste are milled into ground leather stock comprising leather fibers; the ground stock is pressed into leather pellets; and the leather pellets are dried to a residual moisture content of no more than 30% by weight. The leather pellets can be mixed with a polymer material at a ratio of 10-95% by weight and bonded to one another and shaped forming compound granules. The compound granules can be used to produce molded parts by injection molding or films by calendering.
US08623245B2 Process of making colored high strength polyethylene fiber
A colored high strength polyethylene fiber, preparation method and use thereof are provided, which are in the high molecular material field. The surface of said high strength polyethylene fiber is chromatic, grey or black. The strength of said high strength polyethylene fiber is 15-50 g/d, its modulus is 400-2000 g/d. The product of the present invention is colored, so it can be well applied to civil and military field. The preparation method of present invention has some advantages that technological process is simple, production efficiency is high, cost of production is low, performance of made fiber is excellent, and use-cost is reduced, compared with the prior art.
US08623242B2 Particulate nanoparticles and nanowires of silver and method for large scale producing the same
Disclosed is a method suitable for large-scale producing silver nanostructures including nanoparticles and nanowires with high crystallization and purity in a short period of time. In this method, silver particles with mean diameter less than 200 nm and silver nanowires with length in micrometers are produced through a microwave-assisted wet chemistry method. Tens to hundreds grams of silver nanoparticles and nanowires are obtained in minutes by microwave irradiation treatment to a precursor pre-made by highly concentrated silver salt solution and other additives. These silver nanoparticles and nanowires have good dispersibility and are ideal for forming conductive adhesives.
US08623241B2 Oxygen transport membrane system and method for transferring heat to catalytic/process reactors
A method and apparatus for producing heat used in a synthesis gas production process is provided. The disclosed method and apparatus include a plurality of tubular oxygen transport membrane elements adapted to separate oxygen from an oxygen containing stream contacting the retentate side of the membrane elements. The permeated oxygen is combusted with a hydrogen containing synthesis gas stream contacting the permeate side of the tubular oxygen transport membrane elements thereby generating a reaction product stream and radiant heat. The present method and apparatus also includes at least one catalytic reactor containing a catalyst to promote the steam reforming reaction wherein the catalytic reactor is surrounded by the plurality of tubular oxygen transport membrane elements. The view factor between the catalytic reactor and the plurality of tubular oxygen transport membrane elements radiating heat to the catalytic reactor is greater than or equal to 0.5.
US08623239B2 Compound and functional luminescent probe comprising the same
Disclosed is a compound characterized by comprising a linker, an oxygen-concentration-responsive phosphorophore which is linked to a first end of the linker, and a fluorophore which is lined to a second end of the linker. In the compound, it is preferred that the triplet level of the phosphorophore be lower than that of the fluorophore. The compound can be used as an oxygen-responsive luminescent probe.
US08623236B2 Titanium nitride-stripping liquid, and method for stripping titanium nitride coating film
A titanium nitride-stripping liquid for stripping a titanium nitride coating film, the titanium nitride-stripping liquid being capable of stripping a titanium nitride coating film even in a semiconductor multilayer laminate having particularly a layer that includes tungsten or a tungsten alloy, without corrosion of this layer is provided, and furthermore, a titanium nitride-stripping liquid which can strip a titanium nitride coating film without affecting an insulating layer is provided. A titanium nitride-stripping liquid including hydrofluoric acid, hydrogen peroxide and water, and further including an inorganic acid other than hydrofluoric acid. According to the present invention, since the titanium nitride-stripping liquid includes an inorganic acid other than hydrofluoric acid, a titanium nitride coating film can be stripped even in the case in which a semiconductor multilayer laminate has a layer that includes tungsten or a tungsten alloy, without corrosion of the layer by the titanium nitride-stripping liquid.
US08623232B2 Method and device for treating silicon wafers
A method and device for treating silicon wafers. In a first step, the silicon wafers (22) are conveyed flat along a continuous, horizontal conveyor belt (12, 32) and nozzles (20) or the like spray an etching solution (21) from the top onto the wafers to texture them, only little etching solution (21) being applied to the silicon wafers (22) from below. In a second step, the silicon wafers (22), which are aligned as in the first step, are wetted exclusively from below with the etching solution (35) to etch-polish them.
US08623230B2 Methods and systems for removing a material from a sample
The present method relates to processes for the removal of a material from a sample by a gas chemical reaction activated by a charged particle beam. The method is a multiple step process wherein in a first step a gas is supplied which, when a chemical reaction between the gas and the material is activated, forms a non-volatile material component such as a metal salt or a metaloxide. In a second consecutive step the reaction product of the first chemical reaction is removed from the sample.
US08623228B2 Freely mounted wheel set made of micro-machinable material and method of fabricating the same
The invention relates to a gear train (51, 51′) including an arbour (53, 53′) a first end of which is fitted with an integral collar (52, 52′), a first wheel set (55, 55′) made of micro-machinable material being fitted onto the second end of the arbour (53, 53′). According to the invention, the gear train (51, 51′) includes a second wheel set (57, 57′) made of micro-machinable material, which is independent of the movements of said first wheel set and which includes an aperture (58, 58′) whose wall is mounted opposite said arbour so that the second wheel set (57, 57′) is freely mounted on said first end of the arbour (53, 53′).
US08623227B2 Transmission electron microscope grid and method for making same
The present disclosure relates to a method for making a transmission electron microscope grid. The method includes: (a) providing a substrate with a graphene layer on a surface of the substrate; (b) applying a carbon nanotube film structure to cover the graphene layer; (c) removing the substrate, to obtain a graphene layer-carbon nanotube film composite structure; and (d) placing the graphene layer-carbon nanotube film composite structure on a grid.
US08623226B2 Making stacked pancake motors using patterned adhesives
A method of making a shaped electrical conductor (610, 630) includes providing a first sheet of metal (319) and applying a first and second thermoplastic adhesive pattern (311, 312) to a first and a second surface thereof. The second pattern is are fully justified with the applied first pattern. The first sheet is etched to remove metal not covered by the patterns so that no metal bridges remain between disconnected coated portions. A second sheet of metal (339) is provided and a third and fourth thermoplastic adhesive pattern (333, 334) is applied to a first and second surface thereof. The third and fourth patterns are fully justified. The second sheet is etched as for the first sheet. Contact regions (315, 335) in the second and third patterns are joined to form electrical contact between the first and second sheets.
US08623223B2 Method using block copolymers for making a master disk with radial binary encoded nondata marks for nanoimprinting patterned magnetic recording disks
A method using directed self-assembly of BCPs enables the making of a master disk for nanoimprinting magnetic recording disks that have patterned data islands and patterned binary encoded nondata marks. The method uses guided self-assembly of a BCP to form patterns of sets of radial lines and circumferential gaps of one of the BCP components, which can be used as an etch mask to make the master disk. The sets of radial lines and circumferential gaps can be patterned so as to encode binary numbers. The pattern is replicated as binary encoded nondata marks into the nanoimprinted disks, with the marks functioning as binary numbers for data sector numbers and/or servo sector numbers. If the disks also use a chevron servo pattern, the binary numbers can function to identify groups of tracks associated with the chevron servo pattern.
US08623219B2 Fluid purification level control apparatuses and methods
Apparatuses and methods for level control in a fluid purification apparatus. The apparatuses and methods include a fluid purification apparatus and a level sensor that regulates operation of the fluid purification apparatus. The level sensor may further operate a bypass valve or a heater.
US08623212B2 Water treatment and revitalization system and method
A system and method are provided in at least one embodiment to filter water through a vortex leading into a disk-pack turbine having an expansion chamber and outlets into a discharge chamber that leads to at least one discharge port. In a further embodiment, the system includes an intake module, a vortex module, a disk-pack module, and a motor for driving the disk-pack turbine. The intake module brings water into the system and routes the water to the vortex module that speeds up the water into a vortex that flows into the disk-pack turbine that discharges into a discharge chamber that leads to at least one discharge port. The disk-pack turbine includes a plurality of disks that are spaced apart forming chambers between the disks that provide at least one passageway between the expansion chamber and the discharge chamber.
US08623210B2 Pore diffusion type flat membrane separating apparatus
A pore diffusion type flat membrane separation apparatus X including a plurality of flat membranes 7 and a plurality of flat plate-like supports 1 arranged alternately with each other, each flat membrane 7 defining a plurality of pores and configured to separate a predetermined dispersed substance contained in a solution by a pore diffusion technique, each flat plate-like support 1 having a flow conduit 2 on one or both faces thereof. A ratio between a spatial volume of the flow conduit 2 and a membrane area of the flat membrane 7 is set from 0.04 to 0.4 cm. The flat plate-like support 1 includes, in at least two positions in a lateral face thereof water conduits 3 in communication with the flow conduit 2, so that flow directions of the solution in the flow conduits 2 of upper and lower flat plate-like supports 1 across the flat membrane 7 may be substantially same directions. The flat plate-like support 1 and the flat membrane 7 can be assembled with and disassembled from each other.
US08623208B2 Hollow fiber membrane module and puller used therefor
A hollow fiber membrane module and a puller used therefore is disclosed, wherein each individual hollow fiber membrane module can be easily pulled out from a filtering apparatus provided with a plurality of hollow fiber membrane modules if it is required to be replaced or repaired. At this time, the hollow fiber membrane module comprises a hollow fiber membrane; and at least one header to which the hollow fiber membrane is potted, wherein the header includes a first lateral side to which the hollow fiber membrane is potted and a second lateral side opposite to the first lateral side, and wherein an engaging plate is formed at the second lateral side. Also, the puller comprises a main body; and a hooking member, extending from an end of the main body, formed in a shape suitable for being caught in the engaging plate.
US08623206B2 Gravitational filter and liquid purification device
A system, that may be portable, for purifying liquid flowing gravitationally from a source/reservoir into a purified liquid receptacle is described. The system includes a housing with a generally horizontal filtering space. More than one liquid inlet disposed at a top portion of the filter is provided as well as one or more liquid outlets disposed at a bottom portion. The liquid flows in a generally lateral direction through the liquid treatment medium. Two or more first walls extending upwardly into the filtering space from a bottom wall thereof and ending with an apex are provided inside the device. One or more second walls downwardly extending into the filtering space from a top wall thereof are also provided. Each of the walls defines a closed path. The first and second walls jointly cause the liquid to flow in a curvilinear flow path from the inlet to the outlet. Apexes of the first walls may be defined such that each apex more distal along the liquid flow path is at a lower level than an apex of a first wall more proximal along the flow path. One or more venting ports may be formed at a top wall portion of the housing for releasing gas from the filter.
US08623205B2 Ballasted anaerobic system
A ballasted anaerobic system for treating wastewater including at least one anaerobic treatment reactor. A weighting agent impregnation subsystem is configured to mix weighting agent with the biological flocs to form weighted biological flocs to create a weighted anaerobic sludge blanket in the at least one anaerobic treatment reactor. A weighting agent recovery subsystem is configured to recover the weighting agent from excess sludge and reintroduce the weighting agent to the weighting agent impregnation subsystem.
US08623203B2 Stormwater treatment system
A stormwater treatment system includes water treatment media that defines a helical flow path within a conduit. The water treatment media may include a plurality of helical water treatment media components that are constructed and arranged to seal against an inside surface of the conduit. The individual helical water treatment media components may be installed in situ within the conduit when the conduit is positioned within a chamber having an access opening, and periodically removed and replaced by passing the components to the access opening. The components further may have a flexible frame, which allows the water treatment media to dynamically adjust to swelling of the filtration media and other forces that may occur during use. The performance of the system may be adjusted by adjusting the helical pitch of the helical water treatment media components.
US08623201B2 Pool cleaning vehicle having improved logic
A swimming pool cleaning vehicle including a housing having a body shell, a frame, and an interior with the housing. The housing having an outlet for releasing air from the shell. The shell being removably attached to the frame, and the frame including a base. The vehicle including a filtration system having a pump motor for pumping pool water through a filtration system, the pump creating a suction force, and the suction force being sufficient to allow the vehicle to climb the pool walls. The vehicle being capable of climbing the pool walls and breaking the surface of the water as it climbs the pool walls. The vehicle including logic for first, initiating vehicle movement, second, shutting off the pump motor, and third, re-starting the pump motor.
US08623199B2 Clay additive for reduction of sulfur in catalytically cracked gasoline
Compositions and processed for their use as additives for reducing the sulfur content of FCC gasoline employ a support material having deposited on its surface (a) a first metal component from Group IIB of the Periodic Table and (b) a second metal component from Group III or Group IV of the Periodic Table. The additive composition is preferably made of a montmorillonite clay support containing zinc and gallium, zinc and zirconium. Alternatively, the additive composition includes support material having deposited on its surface a metal component from Group III of the Periodic Table, preferably a montmorillonite clay support containing gallium. The clay is impregnated with the metal(s) using the known incipient wetness method and the dried powdered additive composition is preferably formed into shapes suitable for use in the FCC unit.
US08623198B2 Systems, devices, and methods for improving accuracy of biosensors using fill time
Methods for determining a concentration of an analyte in a sample, and the devices and systems used in conjunction with the same, are provided herein. In one exemplary embodiment of a method for determining a concentration of an analyte in a sample, the method includes detecting a presence of a sample in an electrochemical sensor including two electrodes. A fill time of the sample is determined with the two electrodes and a correction factor is calculated in view of at least the fill time. The method also includes reacting an analyte that causes a physical transformation of the analyte between the two electrodes. A concentration of the analyte can then be determined in view of the correction factor with the same two electrodes. Systems and devices that take advantage of the fill time to make analyte concentration determinations are also provided.
US08623197B1 Testing workpiece overcoat
A method and apparatus for testing workpiece overcoats is described.
US08623196B2 Nanostructured biosensor containing neuropathy target esterase activity
The present invention provides compositions, devices and methods for detecting esterase activity. The present invention also provides devices and methods of detecting esterase inhibitors, for example, organophosphates. In particular, the present invention provides a biosensor comprising Neuropathy Target Esterase (NTE) polypeptides. Further, the present invention relates to medicine, industrial chemistry, agriculture, and homeland security.
US08623195B2 High pressure electrolyser
An electrolyser (100) comprising an electrolysis cell stack (101) inside a pressure vessel (115), wherein the first terminal end plate (107a) of the cell stack is integral with one a closed ends of the pressure vessel, thus forming a stationary head (107) of the cell stack equipped with the fluid and electric connections, and the second terminal end plate (108a) of the cell stack is inside the vessel and is free to move in a longitudinal direction in response to thermal expansion or contraction, thus forming a floating head (108) of the stack. The pressure vessel (115) is preferably pressurized using a gaseous product obtained in the process of electrolysis.
US08623191B2 Non-volatile addressable electronic paper with gray level capability
A device and method for displaying grey levels on electronic paper is provided. According to various embodiments, a system for electronic paper can include an electret substrate embedded with at least one first capsule containing a first plurality of charged pigment particles and at least one second capsule containing a second plurality of charged pigment particles. The system can further include a first electrode interfacing with one side of the electret substrate and a second electrode interfacing with a second side of the electret substrate. The first plurality of charged pigment particles can move in the direction of one of the first and second electrodes having a polarity that is opposite to that of the first plurality of the charged pigment particles in response to a voltage applied to the first and second electrodes that is greater than a first threshold. The second plurality of charged pigment particles can move in the direction of one of the first and second electrodes having a polarity that is opposite to that of the second plurality of the charged pigment particles in response to a voltage applied to the first and second electrodes that is greater than a second threshold, the second threshold differing from the first threshold.
US08623184B2 Device for supporting a rotatable target and sputtering apparatus
It is provided a device for supporting a rotatable target of a deposition apparatus for sputtering material onto a substrate, wherein the device includes a drive unit for rotating the rotatable target; a ring-shaped part connected to the drive unit for attaching the drive unit to the rotatable target; and, a shield for covering the ring-shaped part. The shield is adapted for rotating together with the ring-shaped part and includes a plurality of parts assembled together. Furthermore, a sputtering apparatus and a method for supporting a rotatable target are provided.
US08623183B2 Electrode module
An electrode module includes a working electrode, a counter electrode, a reference electrode and a well (container) for retaining an electrolytic solution and is used in electrochemical measuring instruments. This electrode module is produced by integrating the well with at least one of the working electrode, the counter electrode and the reference electrode. This integrated electrode includes a chip-like electrode having a thin membrane of an electrode material formed on the surface of a chip-like base metal. This chip-like electrode is disposed on and integrated with the bottom of the well in a detachable manner. There is provided the compact, low price electrode module of high repetition use efficiency with no need of maintenance and having easy handling.
US08623181B2 Seawater desalinization device
A seawater desalinization device includes a container portion and a heat conduction cover covering on the container portion. The container portion defines a receiving chamber and a slot. The receiving chamber is configured for receiving seawater, and the slot is defined around the receiving chamber for receiving fresh water evaporated from the seawater. The heat conduction cover defines a plurality of guiding slots facing the container portion for guiding the fresh water drop into the slot.
US08623180B2 Seawater desalinization system
A seawater desalinization system includes a container portion, a heat conduction cover, and a heating device. The container portion defines a receiving chamber and a slot. The heat conduction cover covers on the container portion and seals the receiving chamber and the slot. The container portion is heated by the heating device. The heating device can absorb solar energy to heat the seawater under the dark condition. Therefore, the seawater desalinization system can heat the seawater to obtain fresh water continually.
US08623178B2 Slitting-material slitting apparatus, inkjet paper manufacturing apparatus, method of manufacturing inkjet paper
There is provided a slitting-material slitting apparatus including: a rotatable male blade; a female blade that is provided below the male blade; and a wrap section that wraps a slitting-material around the female blade such that the slitting-material makes contact with the female blade on a coated layer side of the slitting-material configured by a support body with a coating layer on the support body harder than the support body; wherein the relative position of the male blade and the female blade are determined such that the male blade slits the slitting-material in a state in which the coating layer is wrapped against the female blade by the wrap section and in contact with the female blade.
US08623177B2 Process for the manufacture of paper products
The invention relates to a process for the manufacture of paper, paperboard and cardboard, wherein spray starch is applied to a moving, wet sheet of material and which is characterized in that the starch is sprayed onto the wet sheet of material in powder form by means of one or more nozzle(s).
US08623174B1 Liquid evaporation system with heated liquid
A liquid evaporation system for evaporating clean water from a reservoir of wastewater includes a liquid evaporator to evaporate and separate water vapor from the wastewater in a confined space, an air blower to supply air to the liquid evaporator, and a wastewater heating system arranged to collect heat to heat the wastewater in the reservoir.
US08623170B2 Moisture-curing compostion with improved initial strength
A composition including: i) at least one moisture-reactive silane-functional polymer which is liquid at room temperature; and ii) at least one silane-functional polyester of formula (I):
US08623169B2 Adhesive system for the direct bonding of a cured polyurethane to crude rubber
Adhesive composition usable in particular as an adhesion primer, based on a polyisocyanate compound and a polyester or vinyl ester resin comprising (in particular hydroxyl) functional groups which are reactive towards isocyanate groups of said polyisocyanate, the total number of said isocyanate groups being in excess relative to the total number of said functional groups of the polyester or vinyl ester resin. The polyisocyanate compound is preferably a diisocyanate, the resin is preferably an epoxy vinyl ester resin, in particular novolac- and/or bisphenol-based. Said composition is usable, as an adhesion primer, in combination with a secondary adhesion layer preferably based on a polyvinylpyridine/stirene/butadiene elastomer and a polyester or vinyl ester resin. Use of such an adhesive system for bonding a cured polyurethane to an uncured diene elastomer composition, in particular in the manufacture of rubber articles consisting of ground contact systems for motor vehicles, in particular pneumatic or non-pneumatic tires.
US08623166B2 Flexographic application of adhesive dispersions
A method of forming on a substrate an adhesive region that includes an adhesive composition employs steps of: a) applying a dispersion of the adhesive composition in a solvent to an anilox roller on a flexographic press, said adhesive composition comprising an adhesive polymer; b) contacting the anilox roller with a flexographic plate to transfer a portion of the dispersion thereto, said flexographic plate comprising an adhesive application region having a shape substantially matching that of the adhesive region on the substrate; c) contacting the flexographic plate with the substrate to transfer the dispersion to the substrate; and d) drying the dispersion on the substrate to form the adhesive region.
US08623165B2 Device and method for fixing a component in position on a component carrier
A device for fixing a component (4) in position on a component carrier (6) using a radiation-curing adhesive agent (8), in which case the radiation (30, 32) for curing the adhesive agent (8) located between the component carrier (6) and the component (4) is laterally introducible; as well as a method for fixing a component (4) in position in a component carrier (6) using an adhesive bond.
US08623163B2 Method for making touch panel
A method for making a touch panel is disclosed. A substrate having a surface including a touch-view area and a trace area is provided. An adhesive layer is applied on the surface of the substrate. A carbon nanotube layer is placed on the adhesive layer. The adhesive layer is solidified. The carbon nanotube layer and the adhesive layer on the trace area are removed to expose the trace area. An electrode and a conductive trace are formed on the trace area.
US08623162B2 Fabricating method of flexible display
A fabricating method of a flexible display device includes forming first and second jig substrates that have a first groove and a second groove formed in a lower part of an edge of the first groove; spreading an adhesive over the second groove; fixing first and second flexible substrates to the first groove and the adhesive; fabricating an upper array substrate on the first flexible substrate and a lower array substrate on the second flexible substrate; bonding the upper array substrate to the lower array substrate and injecting a liquid crystal; and peeling the first and second flexible substrates from the first and second jig substrates.
US08623155B2 Metastable beta-titanium alloys and methods of processing the same by direct aging
Metastable beta titanium alloys and methods of processing metastable β-titanium alloys are disclosed. For example, certain non-limiting embodiments relate to metastable β-titanium alloys, such as binary β-titanium alloys comprising greater than 10 weight percent molybdenum, having tensile strengths of at least 150 ksi and elongations of at least 12 percent. Other non-limiting embodiments relate to methods of processing metastable β-titanium alloys, and more specifically, methods of processing binary β-titanium alloys comprising greater than 10 weight percent molybdenum, wherein the method comprises hot working and direct aging the metastable β-titanium alloy at a temperature below the β-transus temperature of the metastable β-titanium alloy for a time sufficient to form α-phase precipitates in the metastable β-titanium alloy. Articles of manufacture comprising binary β-titanium alloys according to various non-limiting embodiments disclosed herein are also disclosed.
US08623152B2 Reduction of entrance and exit marks left by a substrate-processing meniscus
A substrate is moved in a linear direction simultaneously between a processing face of an upper proximity head and a processing face of a lower proximity head. As the substrate is moved, a first meniscus of processing liquid is generated between the processing face of the upper proximity head and a top surface of the substrate, and a second meniscus of processing liquid is generated between the processing face of the lower proximity head and a bottom surface of the substrate. The first meniscus has a meniscus protrusion extending in the linear direction in which the substrate is moved and positioned on a trailing side of the first meniscus relative to the linear direction in which the substrate is moved. The meniscus protrusion is centered on the substrate relative to a diameter of the substrate as measured perpendicular to the linear direction in which the substrate is moved.
US08623140B2 System and method for making a film having a matte finish
A system and a method for providing a film having a matte finish. The system includes means for providing a coated substrate, the coated substrate comprising a first coatable material applied to a substrate, the coatable material forming a first major surface of the coated substrate; means for changing the viscosity of the first coatable material from a first viscosity to a second viscosity; a face-side roller having an outer surface positioned to contact the first major surface of the coated substrate to impart a matte finish thereon; and optionally, means for hardening the first coatable material. The method of the invention includes the steps of (1) providing a coated substrate comprising a coatable material disposed on a substrate, the coatable material providing a first major surface of the coated substrate; (2) changing the viscosity of the coatable material from the initial viscosity to a second viscosity; (3) contacting the first major surface of the coated substrate with at least one face-side roller to impart a matte finish; and (4) optionally, hardening the coatable material to provide the film.
US08623139B2 Apparatus for producing polycrystalline silicon
An apparatus for producing polycrystalline silicon which heats a silicon seed rod in a reactor to which a raw material gas is supplied, and deposits polycrystalline silicon on the surface of the silicon seed rod, includes an electrode extending in a vertical direction to hold the silicon seed rod, an electrode holder having a cooling flow passage circulating a cooling medium formed therein, and inserted into a through-hole formed in a bottom plate of the reactor to hold the electrode, and an annular insulating material arranged between an inner peripheral surface of the through-hole and an outer peripheral surface of the electrode holder to electrically insulate the bottom plate and the electrode holder from each other.
US08623138B2 Crystal growth apparatus
A group-III nitride crystal growth method comprises the steps of: a) preparing a mixed molten liquid of an alkaline material and a substance at least containing a group-III metal; b) causing growth of a group-III nitride crystal from the mixed molten liquid prepared in the step a) and a substance at least containing nitrogen; and c) creating a state in which nitrogen can be introduced into the molten liquid prepared by the step a).
US08623137B1 Method and device for slicing a shaped silicon ingot using layer transfer
A method for slicing a shaped silicon ingot includes providing a single crystal silicon boule characterized by a cropped structure including a first end-face, a second end-face, and a length along an axis in an <100> crystallographic direction substantially vertically extending from the first end-face to the second end-face. The method further includes cutting the single crystal silicon boule substantially through an {110} crystallographic plane in parallel to the axis to separate the single crystal silicon boule into a first portion with a first surface and a second portion with a second surface. Additionally, the method includes exposing either the first surface of the first portion or the second surface of the second portion and performing a layer transfer process to form a single crystal silicon sheet from either the first surface of the first portion or from the second surface of the second portion.
US08623136B1 Asymmetrical wafer configurations and method for creating the same
The present invention consists of a method for imparting asymmetry to a truncated annular wafer by either rounding one corner of the orientation flat, or rounding one corner of a notch. This novel method of rounding corners impart a visual and/or tactile asymmetry which can be utilized by a person in order to differentiate between the two different sides of the wafer. This inventive wafer design and method for making an asymmetric wafer is especially useful in the field of semiconductor technology and may be used on sapphire crystal wafers or any other class of wafer.
US08623131B2 Surface treatment agent and surface treatment method
Provided are a surface treatment agent that can effectively suppress pattern collapse of an inorganic pattern or resin pattern provided on a substrate, a surface treatment method using such a surface treatment agent, as well as a surface treatment agent that can carry out silylation treatment to a high degree on the surface of a substrate, and a surface treatment method using such a surface treatment agent. A surface treatment agent is used that is employed in hydrophobization treatment of a substrate surface and includes a silylation agent containing at least one compound having a disilazane structure and a solvent containing a five- or six-membered ring lactone compound.
US08623123B2 CO2 absorption from gas mixtures using an aqueous solution of 4-amino-2,2,6,6-tetramethyl piperidine
CO2 is absorbed from a gas mixture by bringing the gas mixture into contact with an absorbent that comprises water and at least one amine of the formula (I), wherein R1 and R2, independently of each other, are hydrogen or an alkyl group. According to the invention, absorption media comprise sulfolane or an ionic liquid in addition to water and an amine of the formula (I). A device according to the invention for removing CO2 from a gas mixture comprises an absorption unit, a desorption unit, and an absorption medium according to the invention that is conducted in the circuit.
US08623119B2 Compressor lubricant reclaiming process and system
A system and method for reclaiming compressor lubricants wherein a gas stream containing a lubricant contaminant is compressed to produce a compressed gas stream containing lubricant, the compressed gas stream being separated to produce a lubricant stream containing contaminant, the lubricant/contaminant stream being sent through a separator wherein the contaminant is separated from the lubricant.
US08623117B2 HVAC air filter monitor with sensor compensation
Sensor offsets for an air filter monitor installed in an HVAC system may be determined by measuring a sensor offset differential pressure value across an air filter when substantially no air flow exists through the air filter. The sensor offset differential pressure value obtained at or near zero flow may represent the sensor offset for the air filter monitor. The sensor offset differential pressure value may be used to compensate an un-compensated differential pressure value obtained during flow conditions.
US08623107B2 Gas hydrate conversion system for harvesting hydrocarbon hydrate deposits
In one embodiment, a gas hydrate conversion system is provided comprising a floating factory, an appendage for harvesting a gas hydrate from an oceanic hydrate deposit, and one or more storage tanks. The floating factory comprises one or more heat exchange assemblies, one or more heat pump assemblies and an engine. In another embodiment, a method for harvesting hydrocarbon hydrate deposits is provided, the method comprising providing a gas hydrate conversion system; inducing release of methane from an oceanic hydrate deposit; capturing the methane from a primary methane capture zone and/or a secondary methane capture zone; and converting the methane to hydrogen and carbon.
US08623105B2 Fuel additives to maintain optimum injector performance
A diesel fuel, diesel fuel additive concentrate and method for improving the performance of fuel injectors for a diesel engine are provided. The diesel fuel includes a major amount of middle distillate fuel; and a reaction product of a hydrocarbyl substituted dicarboxylic acid or anhydride and an amine compound or salt. The amine compound has the formula wherein R is selected from the group consisting of a hydrogen and a hydrocarbyl group containing from about 1 to about 15 carbon atoms, and R1 is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen and a hydrocarbyl group containing from about 1 to about 20 carbon atoms. The reaction product contains at least one amino triazole group and is present in the fuel in an amount sufficient to improve the performance of diesel fuel injectors.
US08623099B2 System and method for securing data within a storage system
According to the present invention, there is provided a system for securing data with a storage system. The system includes at least one storage device. In addition, the system includes a security mechanism for recognizing an attempt to insert or remove the storage device. Moreover, the system includes a management unit to control the insertion and removal of the storage device.
US08623098B2 Systems and method for volitional control of jointed mechanical devices based on surface electromyography
Systems and methods for controlling a weight bearing member having at least one powered joint are provided. A system includes a velocity reference module for receiving myoelectric control signals from a user during a non-weight bearing mode for the powered joint and generating a velocity reference for the powered joint based on the myoelectric control signals. The system further includes a volitional impedance module for generating a torque control signal for actuating the powered joint based at least on the velocity reference.
US08623096B2 Double layer surgical prosthesis to repair soft tissue
A prosthesis for the treatment of hernias and/or laparoceles via an intraperitoneal route, having a mesh of filaments of non-resorbable and biocompatible polymer material having interstices permitting tissue growth and a sheet of polymer material having barrier properties and low adhesion to sensitive organs and tissues. The sheet is superimposed upon and joined to the mesh so as to form a stratified structure. In particular, the sheet is joined to mesh through a plurality of filaments located alongside each other at a spacing of not more than 5 mm. Each filament has a plurality of attachment sites to the mesh which are not more than 15 mm apart, and each length of filament between two successive attachment sites projects from the surface of the mesh facing sheet and is fused to the sheet.
US08623094B2 Devices and methods for treating defects in the tissue of a living being
An implant for deployment in select locations or select tissue for regeneration of tissue is disclosed. The implant comprising collagen and or other bio-resorbable materials, where the implant may also be used for therapy delivery. Additionally, the implant may be “matched” to provide the implant with similar physical and/or chemical properties as the host tissue.
US08623091B2 Distractible intervertebral implant
A distractible intervertebral implant configured to be inserted in an insertion direction into an intervertebral space that is defined between a first vertebral body and a second vertebral body is disclosed. The implant may include a first body and a second body. The first body may define an outer surface that is configured to engage the first vertebral body, and an opposing inner surface that defines a rail. The second body may define an outer surface that is configured to engage the second vertebral body, and an inner surface that defines a recess configured to receive the rail of the first body. The second body moves in a vertical direction toward the second vertebral body as the second body is slid over the first body and the rail is received in the recess.
US08623089B2 Subchondral treatment of joint pain of the spine
Methods for altering the natural history of degenerative disc disease and osteoarthritis of the spine are proposed. The methods focus on the prevention, or delayed onset or progression of, subchondral defects such as bone marrow edema or bone marrow lesion, and subchondral treatment to prevent the progression of osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease in the spine and thereby treat pain.
US08623088B1 Spinal fusion implant and related methods
A spinal fusion implant of non-bone construction to be introduced into any variety of spinal target sites. The spinal fusion implant of the present invention includes a top surface, a bottom surface, first and second lateral sides, a proximal (posterior) end and a distal (anterior) end. The spinal fusion implant of the present invention may be used to provide temporary or permanent fixation within an orthopedic target site. To do so, the spinal fusion implant may be introduced into a disc space while locked to a surgical insertion instrument and thereafter employed in the proper orientation and released. Once deposited in the disc space, the spinal fusion implant of the present invention effects spinal fusion over time as the natural healing process integrates and binds the implant.
US08623084B2 Soft intraocular lens
A soft intraocular lens is provided, with IRHD hardness thereof being 40 to 60, wherein distance L is in a range of 3.75 mm-4.50 mm, which is a distance from an optical central axis of the optical part to a reference point of a supporting part side edge of the transition part, and an angle θ is in a range of 35°-50°, which is formed by a surface including the optical central axis and a reference point of the supporting part side edge of the transition part, and a surface including the optical central axis and in contact with a tip of the supporting part, with a width of the transition part being larger than a width of the supporting part, and a width Wm of the transition part in a middle of the optical part side edge and the supporting part side edge of the transition part being 1.5 times to 3 times of a width Ws of the supporting part.
US08623080B2 Biologically implantable prosthesis and methods of using the same
A method of using a prosthetic heart valve assembly can include implanting a first prosthesis directly into a native annulus. The first prosthesis can have a central longitudinal axis and a first engagement element. The method can also include engaging the first engagement element of the first prosthesis with a second engagement element of a second prosthesis to securely couple the second prosthesis to the first prosthesis. The second prosthesis can have a prosthetic valve. The first engagement element engages the second engagement element by moving the second prosthesis towards the first prosthesis in a direction generally parallel to the central longitudinal axis until the first engagement element engages the second engagement element.
US08623077B2 Apparatus for replacing a cardiac valve
A prosthetic heart valve in combination with a delivery assembly that includes a first elongate component that is movably disposed to a second elongate component. The delivery assembly has a temporary valve location relative to the delivery assembly to which the prosthetic heart valve can be releasably mounted in position and a spaced implantation location relative to the delivery assembly to which the prosthetic heart valve can also be releasably mounted in position. The prosthetic heart valve and delivery assembly combination is configurable with movement of the first elongate component relative to the second elongate component from a delivery state with the prosthetic heart valve mounted in the temporary location to an implantation state with the prosthetic heart valve repositioned from the temporary, location to the implantation location so that the prosthetic heart valve can subsequently be deployed from the implantation location.
US08623067B2 Methods and apparatus for luminal stenting
Described herein are flexible implantable occluding devices that can, for example, navigate the tortuous vessels of the neurovasculature. The occluding devices can also conform to the shape of the tortuous vessels of the vasculature. In some embodiments, the occluding devices can direct blood flow within a vessel away from an aneurysm or limit blood flow to the aneurysm. Some embodiments describe methods and apparatus for adjusting, along a length of the device, the porosity of the occluding device. In some embodiments, the occluding devices allows adequate blood flow to be provided to adjacent structures such that those structures, whether they are branch vessels or oxygen-demanding tissues, are not deprived of the necessary blood flow.
US08623066B2 Cell seeded expandable body
Devices, systems and methods for treating medical conditions using cell therapy via body lumens. Localized delivery is achieved with the use of a stent-like expandable body seeded with cells. The expandable body is expanded to contact at least a portion of the inner walls of the body lumen and the cells, cellular products and/or other therapeutic agents are delivered to the surrounding tissue. The therapeutic benefit provided is dependent on the type of cells used and the features of the expandable body.
US08623062B2 System and method to stablize a spinal column including a spinolaminar locking plate
A system adapted to be implanted in a patient to stabilize a spinal column of the patient comprises an anchoring plate having a shape generally conformal with at least a portion of a lamina associated with a targeted vertebra of the spinal column. The anchoring plate is securable to the targeted vertebra by two or more screws. A mounting bracket adapted to receive an secure a rod is connected with the anchoring plate.
US08623059B2 System and method for dynamic vertebral stabilization
An intervertebral stabilization device and method is disclosed. The device preferably includes a planar spring enclosed within a housing. The housing is joined to an articulation component at either end, and the articulation components have couplings connectable to anchoring components which are securable to adjacent vertebrae. The planar spring can flex and retract providing relative motion between the adjacent vertebrae. The articulation components are ball and socket joints which allow the entire assembly to flexibly follow the curvature of the spine. A fusion rod with articulation components and couplings at either end may be substituted for the spring device. The couplings enable interchangeability between a fusion rod assembly and spring assembly, so that dynamic stabilization can occur at one vertebral level and fusion at the adjacent vertebral level. An overhung spring assembly with a sideways displaced housing which allows for a shorter pedicle to pedicle displacement is also disclosed.
US08623055B2 Spinous process fusion and orthopedic implants and methods
A spinal implant device immobilizes an attached vertebrae through a minimally invasive surgical approach while providing a compartment within the implant for the placement of bone graft or bone graft substitute. The bone graft material fuses the spinous processes and/or lamina portion of bone of the vertebral bone to which the device is attached.
US08623053B2 Method and apparatus for spinal facet fusion
A spinal facet fusion implant includes an elongated main body having a distal end, a proximal end and a longitudinal axis extending between the distal end and the proximal end. The main body has a cross-sectional profile characterized by a primary axis and a secondary axis. At least one stabilizer extends radially outwardly from the main body in the secondary axis. The main body has a length along the primary axis that is less than the combined width of the spinal facets making up a facet joint. The stabilizer has a width that is sized to make a press fit into the gap between the spinal facets making up a facet joint.
US08623051B2 Tissue repair device
A tissue repair device includes a closed knotless loop of multifilament flexible material, and a fixation member having a structure that defines a cavity that receives at least a part of the closed loop. The tissue repair device may include a flexible member traversing the loop. The loop may include a portion in which ends of the multifilament flexible material are thermally fused together. The multifilament flexible material may be braided or twisted.
US08623049B2 Soft tissue anchor and methods and apparatus for securing soft tissue
An apparatus for anchoring in soft tissue generally includes an elongate tensile member adapted to extend within the interior of soft tissue and a first helical anchor configured for insertion within the interior of the soft tissue. The first helical anchor extends along a lengthwise axis of rotation and includes a proximal coil extending around the axis and a distal coil portion ending in a distal tip. The proximal coil defines an outer diameter adjacent to the distal coil portion, and the distal tip is positioned radially outward of the outer diameter. A drive member is coupled with the first helical anchor such that the drive member may be used to rotate the first helical anchor into the soft tissue.
US08623042B2 Artificial gastric valve
An apparatus and method are disclosed for treating overweight and obese patients by applying a restrictive Artificial Gastric Valve (AGV) on part of the stomach. The apparatus includes a mechanism to control the opening of the AGV automatically on demand, dynamically and progressively. The controlled opening of the AGV inside the stomach controls and regulates the flow of food.
US08623038B2 Re-treatment for ophthalmic correction of refraction
A planning device generating control data for a treatment apparatus for refraction-correcting ophthalmic surgery is provided, said apparatus using a laser device to separate a corneal volume, which is to be removed for correction, from the surrounding cornea by at least one cut surface in the cornea of an eye, said planning device comprising an interface for receiving corneal data including information on pre-operative cuts which were generated in a previous ophthalmic operation, and computing means for defining a corneal cut surface which confines the corneal volume to be removed, said computing means defining the corneal cut surface on the basis of the corneal data and generating a control dataset for the corneal cut surface for control of the laser device.
US08623036B2 Magnamosis
A magnamosis system for auto-anastomosing a region of the body using implants with magnetic members that may be individually delivered to different locations in the body. The implants with their magnetic members have a mating surface and polar alignment that generates an attractive force to compress tissue in the region between them. The tissue in the region necroses as a result of the compressive force such that tissue surrounding the necrosed tissue heals together to form an anastomosis.
US08623032B2 Superelastic suture passing devices and methods
An embodiment of the invention includes a surgical device for passing suture through soft tissue. The surgical device can include at least one elongate superelastic member having a thickness and having a first resting configuration that defines at least one curve having a first radius of curvature greater than or equal to 3 times the thickness of the superelastic member. The surgical device also can include a thermally formed opening in the superelastic member, the opening adapted to receive at least one strand of suture. Moreover, the surgical device can include a superelastic member adapted to be straightened into a second configuration having a second radius of curvature larger than the first radius of curvature.
US08623031B2 System and method for transplantation of dermal tissue
A dermal tissue transplantation system combining a tissue particle harvester, a tissue particle collector, and a chambered dressing. The system provides a harvester capable of harvesting tissue from a donor site on the order of about 100 microns. The integrated tissue particle collector provides a means for collecting the harvested tissue for in situ cultivation in a chambered dressing at the wound site.
US08623030B2 Robotic arthroplasty system including navigation
A system for performing surgery on a joint. The system includes a robotic subsystem and a navigation subsystem. The navigation subsystem provides the robotic subsystem, during the surgery, with information relating to positions of the bones associated with the joint thereby enabling separate tracking of the bones when the bones move during the surgery. The robotic subsystem includes a base, a plurality of arms, and a cutting tool. The navigation subsystem may include a plurality of locating devices.
US08623027B2 Ergonomic surgical instruments
A surgical instrument handle assembly includes a housing having a proximal end and a distal end. A proximal opening is formed at the proximal end of the housing. A distal opening is formed at the distal end of the housing. The proximal and the distal openings define a longitudinal axis. A handle extends downwardly from the longitudinal axis. The handle defines a proximal contact surface, a saddle surface, and a stabilization tail. A trigger is pivotally attached to the housing and is pivotally moveable relative to the handle.
US08623025B2 Delivery apparatus and methods for vertebrostenting
The invention relates to a systems, devices and methods of delivering and deploying a stent into a curvilinear cavity within a vertebral body or other bony or body structure. In some instances, a system can include an elongate shaft for delivering a self-expanding, cement-directing stent. The elongate shaft can include at least one of an inner shaft, an outer shaft, a tubular sheath, a flexible guidewire, and an internal polymer extrusion. A rotational handle can be used to control movement of the elongate shaft. The rotational handle can incorporate one or more pins in slots associated with each of the components (e.g., inner shaft, outer shaft, and tubular sheath), such that upon rotation of the handle, the pins are forced to move in the direction of their respective slots.
US08623020B2 Vertebral staples and insertion tools
Implantable vertebral staples and tools for use with the same are provided. In general, an exemplary vertebral staple according to the present invention includes a staple body having at least one long spike formed thereon for allowing rotation of the body when the long spike is partially inserted in bone. The staple body can also include one or more short spikes formed thereon and adapted to prevent rotation of the body when the long and short spikes are fully inserted into bone. The present invention also provides an inserter tool that can be used to implant the vertebral staple, and also a drill guide that can be used, preferably in combination with the inserter tool, to drill holes through the bone in alignment with one or more holes formed in the vertebral staple.
US08623017B2 Open vessel sealing instrument with hourglass cutting mechanism and overratchet safety
An open electrosurgical forceps includes a pair of first and second shaft members each having a jaw member disposed at its distal end. The jaw members are movable from a first position in spaced relation relative to one another to a subsequent position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue. Each of the jaw members includes an electrically conductive scaling plate for communicating electrosurgical energy through tissue. A curved knife channel is defined along the length of one of the jaw members and is dimensioned to reciprocate a cutting mechanism. An actuator selectively advances the cutting mechanism from a first position proximal to tissue held between the jaw members to a subsequent position distal to tissue held between the jaw members. The cutting mechanism includes a generally hourglass-shaped flexible blade having a mutually aggregating notch.
US08623015B2 Methods and devices for removing omental tissue
The invention relates to a method of treating obesity, insulin resistance and co-morbidities of these conditions by removing tissue from the abdomen. More specifically, it relates to a method of removing abdominal fat and omentum to which the fat is attached, in order to improve health. The invention includes a device for safely removing this tissue material.
US08623009B2 Endoscopic gastric bypass defect repair
The invention relates to systems or kits and methods for repairing defects in gastric bypass operations, e.g., methods of closing intragastric fistulas (18, 20) and dilated gastrojejunal anastomoses. In various embodiments, an endoscopic suturing device (23) is inserted through a patient's mouth, down through the esophagus, and positioned in the region of the defect, e.g., fistula. Adjacent tissue is then acquired, e.g., by vacuum, and one or more stitches are placed through the tissue and tightened to at least partially close the fistula, forming a suture line. One or more reinforcing clips (30) and sealant (32) can be endoscopically applied to the suture line.
US08623008B2 Adapter device
An adapter is provided for a power connection element between a handle and an electrosurgical instrument to be attached to it. This provides an adapter that makes it possible to reduce organizational effort and costs in the production of electrosurgical instruments with monopolar electrodes. To this end, the adapter includes an insulating portion for adapting an insulating section of the power connection element and an electrically conductive portion for adapting at least one electrically conductive section of the power connection element. The insulating portion and the electrically conductive portion are configured in such a way that the insulating section and the electrically conductive section have their dimensions increased.
US08623007B2 Electrosurgical generator to ablation device adaptor
An electrosurgical system is provided that includes an electrosurgical generator configured to output a first electrosurgical waveform and a probe configured to deliver a second electrosurgical waveform to tissue. The system also includes an adapter coupled between the electrosurgical generator and the probe and operable to convert the first electrosurgical waveform to the second electrosurgical waveform. The adapter includes a step down transformer configured to convert the first electrosurgical waveform to the second electrosurgical waveform.
US08623004B2 Method for determining proximity relative to a critical structure
A system for determining proximity of a surgical device relative to an anatomical structure includes at least one surgical device having a sensor assembly operably coupled to a processing unit and configured to transmit at least one electrical signal generated by the processing unit through a target anatomical structure to elicit a measurable response from the target anatomical structure. The processing unit is configured to calculate a signature property value of the target anatomical structure based on the measurable response. The processing unit is configured to identify the target anatomical structure based on a comparison between the signature property value and at least one other signature property.
US08622999B2 Clutch mechanism
A clutch mechanism for use with a carrier of a linear drive device includes a housing, a first gear, and a first clutch arrangement. The first gear coupled to the housing and has gear teeth to engage a threaded shaft of a linear drive device . Rotation of the shaft causes the housing to move along the shaft in a first mode of operation. The first clutch arrangement prevents substantial rotation of the first gear. The first gear permits rotation of the first gear with respect to the housing. The housing can be manually moved along a length of the shaft, in a second mode of operation, by exerting a force on the housing. The rotational force applied to the first gear through the interaction of the threaded shaft and the gear teeth exceeds the first threshold.
US08622998B2 Automated catheter length determination for implantable fluid delivery device
Disclosed are methods and systems for automatically estimating the length of an implantable catheter by measuring the pressure decay response to pumping fluid through the catheter. The decay time for a unit fluid pressure pulse generated within the catheter is proportional to the catheter length, i.e. as the catheter length increases so does the decay time. The catheter length can therefore be estimated based on, e.g., the decay time of the pressure pulse. The estimated catheter length can also be analyzed to determine if it is representative of the actual catheter length, or, e.g., is affected by one or more catheter malfunctions including cuts and occlusions. Systems for automatically estimating the catheter length include an implantable catheter, a pumping mechanism, a pressure sensor configured to measure pressure within the catheter, and a processor that calculates the catheter length from a pressure pulse measured while delivering fluid through the catheter.
US08622995B2 Method for delivery of antimicrobial to proximal end of catheter
Systems, methods, and articles for delivering an antimicrobial composition into the lumen of a trans-dermal catheter and to proximal elements of the transdermal catheter are disclosed. In an embodiment, the system comprises an elongate member configured for insertion into a lumen of a catheter, the elongate member containing an antimicrobial. In an alternative embodiment, an antimicrobial composition placed on an interior surface a cap element, and transfers antimicrobial to the exterior of the proximal end of the transdermal catheter.
US08622992B2 Devices and methods for perfusion therapy
Devices, methods, and assemblies for perfusion therapy including cerebral perfusion therapy such as those for use in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke. The treatment includes delivery of blood to or about the vicinity of a thrombus site.
US08622990B2 Activity sensing techniques for an infusion pump system
Some embodiments of a wearable infusion pump system can include a pump device having a drive system to dispense a medicine to a user, an activity sensor that detects a possible change in an activity level of the user, and a controller to activate the drive system to dispense the medicine to the user. The controller device can query the user to indicate whether a detected activity level of the user represents an actual change in the activity level of the user. The controller device can alter the medicine dispensing schedule based on the user indicated changes in activity level.
US08622987B2 Chemistrode, a plug-based microfluidic device and method for stimulation and sampling with high temporal, spatial, and chemical resolution
A method for sampling and/or introducing a matter to an environment comprises introducing a first array of plugs through a first microchannel of a device into an exchange region of the device in which mass transport between the environment and the plug fluid of at least one plug in the first array of plugs occurs and a second array of plugs is formed. The exchange region is in fluid communication with the first microchannel. The method further comprises directing the second array of plugs into a second microchannel downstream of and in fluid communication with the exchange region.
US08622984B2 Disposable undergarment and related manufacturing equipment and processes
This invention pertains to a three dimensional disposable panty, subassemblies of the panty, and an apparatus and methods for making the panty and subassemblies. The panty is designed to hold a primary absorbent sanitary pad. The panty may have elasticized leg and waist openings and be stretchable about the hip and stomach regions of a user. the panty provides backup protection to control egress of fluids that leak or seep around or through the primary sanitary pad. The panty includes a secondary absorbent positioned in the crotch area and extending into the body of the disposable panty, front and back, and preferably over the leg elastics to trap, inside the panty, leakage from the primary absorbent, and to prevent strike through onto e.g. outer clothing and bed linen. The apparatus and methods facilitate assembling leg elastics and crotch elastics into the panty subassemblies while assembling a series of panty subassemblies in a continuous web structure at a constant, or relatively constant, continuous and efficient speed.
US08622981B2 Modular wound treatment apparatus with releasable clip connection
Apparatus (200) for the application of topical negative pressure therapy to a user of the apparatus (200) is described together with a method for protecting said apparatus (200) when subjected to abnormal stresses, the apparatus (200) comprising a device (202) and a waste canister (204) releasably connected thereto wherein the device (202) and waste canister (204) are connected together by clip means (222), said clip means (222) being subject to failure upon application of abnormal stresses thereby permitting separation of the device (202) and waste canister (204).
US08622977B2 Carrier for injecting a product into the human body
The invention relates to a carrier for injecting a filler product, in particular for microplasty or lipo-reconstruction, comprising a semi-rigid tubular needle (2) having a longitudinal axis with a closed hemispherical distal end and a proximal end (3) for connecting to an injection device, said needle having an inner tubular surface defining an inner transverse cross-section and an outer tubular surface defining an outer transverse cross-section, wherein at least one output side opening (11) is formed in the needle in the vicinity of the distal end. According to the invention, at least one output side opening (11) is defined by a peripheral edge (12) with a rounded connection profile free of any protruding edge, between the inner and outer surfaces of the needle, and the wall of the needle (1) has a thickness, from the proximal end (3) and over a predetermined length of the needle, which is greater than the thickness of the needle which is constant up to the distal end.
US08622976B2 Systems and methods for infusion of fluids using stored potential energy and a variable flow resistor
Systems and methods for infusion of fluids using stored potential energy and a variable flow resistor. In one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an infusion device that includes a plunger situated within a vessel so as to define a chamber within which a volume of fluid can be accommodated between a downstream surface of the plunger and the vessel. The infusion device further includes an outflow path through which the fluid in the chamber can be dispensed upon displacement of the plunger by a force acting thereon. A variable flow resistor is situated within the outflow path and is configured to allow a substantially constant fluid flow rate from the vessel to be maintained as the force acting on the plunger decreases.
US08622975B2 Magnetic safety needle assembly
A safety needle assembly is provided herein which includes a hub; a needle fixed to the hub, the needle having a distal end formed for insertion into a patient; a shield moveable relative to the hub from a first position, where the shield covers the distal end of the needle, to a second position, where the distal end of the needle is exposed and not covered by the shield; a first magnetic element fixed to the hub; and, a second magnetic element fixed to the shield. The first and second magnetic elements are configured so as to define a repulsive force therebetween which urges the first and second magnetic elements apart. The repulsive force urges the shield towards the first position. Advantageously, with the subject invention, a safety needle assembly may be provided which includes a minimal number of parts, without sacrificing reliability.
US08622974B2 Plunger-driven feeding tube delivery device and methods
A plunger-driven delivery device for use with a feeding tube for delivering an ingestible material to a user is provided. The delivery device includes a device body having a first chamber, a second chamber and an exit orifice through which the ingestible material is delivered to the feeding tube. A first plunger is disposed in the first chamber, and a second plunger is disposed in the second chamber. The delivery device can be provided with the ingestible material disposed in the first chamber and a flushing liquid disposed in the second chamber. The delivery device is operable to provide sequential delivery first of the ingestible material and then the flushing liquid into the feeding tube. In some embodiments, a mechanical interlock is disposed between the first and second plungers to prevent use of the second plunger until the first plunger has been depressed. In additional embodiments, a first passage is defined between the first chamber and the exit orifice and a second passage is defined between the second chamber and the exit orifice. The second passage has a longer passage length than the first passage, allowing delivery of the ingestible material into the feeding tube before the flushing liquid is ejected from the delivery device. A method of delivering an ingestible material to a user through a feeding tube is also provided.
US08622972B2 Peripheral catheter assembly and method of using it
A peripheral catheter assembly having a hollow catheter hub, a female proximal end, a distal end provided with a catheter tube, at least one infusion port located between the distal and proximal ends, a hollow needle module that includes a needle held by a male socket arranged to sealingly engage the female proximal end, and a sealing member engaged inside the catheter hub which serves for facilitating venipuncture without unintended splashing of blood. A sealing valve that includes a septum seal having a weakened portion surrounded by deflectable septum walls, and a hollow tubular extension which protrudes towards a free end from the periphery of the septum seal and extends inside the catheter hub past the infusion port towards the distal end of the catheter hub provide a self-closable sealing member which provide the physician the freedom to leave the patient when the needle module is retracted.
US08622968B2 Gastrostomy tube extension device
A gastrostomy tube extension device which can facilitate the insertion or removal operation in and from the patient, and increase the simplicity of manufacture. A gastrostomy tube extension device for inserting or taking out the gastrostomy tube into/from the patient includes a rod, a fixing member, and an engaging member. The rod is formed of a rod-shaped member with engaging stepped portions. The fixing member is capable of moving along the longitudinal direction of the rod, and an engaging projection which can be fixed to the tube member is formed on the peripheral surface of the fixing member. The engaging member includes a lower engaging portion engageable with the engaging projection and an upper engaging portion which is engageable with the engaging stepped portion This assembly allows the extension to be locked.
US08622966B2 Operating an infusion pump system
Some embodiments of a medical infusion pump system include a pump device having a cap device that mates with a pump housing to retain a medicine cartridge therein. In addition to retaining the medicine cartridge in the pump housing, the cap device may perform a number of preparatory functions or safety functions. In addition or in the alternative, some embodiments of the pump device may include a drive system that advances a piston rod to dispense medicine to the patient in a safe and energy efficient manner.
US08622964B2 Method for drug delivery to animals
A method for delivering a fluid to an animal with a drug delivery device without causing contamination to the drug delivery device. The drug delivery device used by the method may comprise a fluid subsystem with a switching device, disposable syringes, fluid reservoirs, disposable tubing, and a catheter. In one embodiment, the method allows a user to deliver multiple drugs to an animal without contaminating the valves that control the flow of fluid.
US08622962B1 Safety syringe and method for using the same
A safety syringe that effectively prevents the administration of an injection in excess of a maximum injection pressure, and that provides a clear, immediate tactile feedback to the practitioner each time a maximum injection pressure is exceeded. The practitioner is provided a predetermined number of attempts to inject fluid without exceeding the maximum injection pressure, each time receiving a direct tactile feedback in the form of a ratcheting click within the plunger assembly of the syringe. After a final attempt, the next over-pressure event causes a disconnect between the thumb plate of the syringe and the piston that engages the fluid within the syringe barrel, positively prevent a potentially harmful injection. In an illustrative embodiment, the plunger assembly includes a distal portion connected to the piston and a proximal portion, connected to the thumb plate.
US08622958B2 Safety needle with lockout mechanism
A safety needle is provided which includes blocking structure to maintain a sharp tip of a needle safely within a housing and prevent re-advancement of a needle from a safety needle housing. The safety needle includes flexible blocking members positioned on an inner needle assembly which are configured to engage an outer housing after the needle assembly has been fully retracted within the outer housing.
US08622956B2 Injection device with simplified stopper retention
An injection device including a volume for accommodating a product for administration, a piston for acting upon the product within the volume, and a stopper which can be arranged between an end of the piston facing the product and the product within the volume, wherein the piston includes a piston head configured to be sealed in a gas-tight manner, the piston head being separate from the stopper such that a negative pressure or vacuum region can be developed between the piston head and the stopper.
US08622955B2 Methods and apparatuses for detecting medical device acceleration, temperature, and humidity conditions
An ambulatory medical device for detecting acceleration, temperature, and/or humidity conditions in or around the medical device is provided. The medical device includes one or more acceleration, thermal, and/or humidity sensors which detect acceleration, temperature, and/or humidity conditions in or around the medical device. In response to detected conditions, the medical device may, among other things, alter the operation of the device, provide an alarm or warning to the user, or transmit data about the detected conditions to another device.
US08622954B2 Relay device for transferring information between a sensor system and a fluid delivery system
A relay device transfers information between a sensor system, which measures a physiological characteristic level of a user, and a fluid delivery system, which infuses a fluid into a user. The relay device includes a sensor system receiver for receiving communications from the sensor system in a sensor system format. The relay device also includes a processor for processing the communications from the sensor system and converting the communications for transmission in a delivery system format. The relay device further includes a delivery system transmitter for transmitting the converted communications in the delivery system format to the fluid delivery system. The sensor system and delivery system formats may utilize different frequencies and/or different communication protocols for communications transmitted between the sensor system and the fluid delivery system through the relay device.
US08622951B2 Controlling a phacoemulsification system based on real-time analysis of image data
A design for dynamically adjusting parameters applied to a surgical instrument, such as an ocular surgical instrument, is presented. The method includes detecting surgical events from image data collected by a surgical microscope focused on an ocular surgical procedure, establishing a desired response for each detected surgical event, delivering the desired response to the ocular surgical instrument as a set of software instructions, and altering the surgical procedure based on the desired response received as the set of software instructions.
US08622947B2 Ankle support with splint and method of using same
According to one embodiment, an orthopedic support for supporting a portion of a wearer's anatomy is provided. For example, the orthopedic support may be an ankle brace comprising a sheet of flexible material configured to at least partially enclose a wearer's ankle and a splint coupled to the sheet of material. The splint is configured to be positioned on a medial side of the wearer's ankle when the sheet of material is secured on the wearer's ankle and includes an undulating profile configured to conform to at least a portion of the medial side of the wearer's ankle and resist inversion of the ankle.
US08622941B2 Hand-held massage device
A hand-held massage device comprises: a control handle, a first engaging member, a second engaging member, a gripping section, a casing, a rotation disk and a massage member. The massage device requires no electricity and has a convenient size, which is highly portable for the user.
US08622937B2 Controlled high efficiency lesion formation using high intensity ultrasound
An ultrasound system used for both imaging and delivery high intensity ultrasound energy therapy to treatment sites and a method for treating tumors and other undesired tissue within a patient's body with an ultrasound device. The ultrasound device has an ultrasound transducer array disposed on a distal end of an elongate, relatively thin shaft. In one form of the invention, the transducer array is disposed within a liquid-filled elastomeric material that more effectively couples ultrasound energy into the tumor, that is directly contacted with the device. Using the device in a continuous wave mode, a necrotic zone of tissue having a desired size and shape (e.g., a necrotic volume selected to interrupt a blood supply to a tumor) can be created by controlling at least one of the f-number, duration, intensity, and direction of the ultrasound energy administered. This method speeds the therapy and avoids continuously pausing to enable intervening normal tissue to cool.
US08622935B1 Elongated surgical manipulator with body position and distal force sensing
An elongated surgical manipulator apparatus and method of operating enables determination of the shape of a flexible portion of the elongated surgical manipulator and/or the location of an arbitrary point thereon, as well as a measure of a contact force exerted on a distal portion of the manipulator. A plurality of fiber optics are operatively coupled with the manipulator, each of the fiber optics including a plurality of fiber Bragg gratings for determination of the shape and/or position. Each of the fiber optics further includes a fiber optic strain gauge such as a Bragg grating or a Fabry-Perot resonator at a distal portion of the elongated surgical manipulator that is isolated from the strain associated with the bending of the manipulator. The fiber optic strain gauges at the distal portion may thus be used to detect a force vector (magnitude and direction) imposed on the distal portion.
US08622934B2 Guidewire with two flexible end portions and method of accessing a branch vessel therewith
A guidewire having flexible or floppy proximal and distal end portions is used for percutaneously accessing a branch vessel through a deployed prosthesis having at least one fenestration near an ostium of the branch vessel. The prosthesis is delivered and deployed via a first percutaneous access site. The guidewire extends over the outside surface of the deployed prosthesis and extends through the at least one fenestration. The flexible distal end portion is snared via a second percutaneous access site and is pulled in a direction towards the second percutaneous access site until the flexible proximal end of the guidewire is located adjacent to the branch vessel. A guide catheter is then advanced over the guidewire until it cannulates the branch vessel. The flexible proximal end of the guidewire may then be advanced into the branch vessel and used for delivery of a branch vessel prosthesis.
US08622933B2 Medical guidewire
There is provided a medical guidewire which reduces the resistance with a curved guiding catheter, and has improved durability that can keep the resistance reduced for a long time. A core shaft of the medical guidewire has a second cylindrical part, with a smaller diameter than that of a coiled body, on a proximal end side of the coiled body. This second cylindrical part is coated with a hydrophilic material. Further, the hydrophilic material coated on the second cylindrical part has a larger thickness than a hydrophilic material coated on the coiled body.
US08622929B2 Means for sampling animal blood
A device (1410) for collecting a blood sample from an animal has a holder for holding a sampling media (1456), one or more spikes (1418) that first pass through the sampling media (1456) and penetrate into the flesh of the animal to create a puncture site to allow blood emerging from the site to be collected by the sampling media (1456) during and/or after penetration of the flesh. The device has a retainer (1427) for temporarily retaining the device (1410) on the animal whilst blood is collected and for allowing the device (1410) to be removed from the animal substantially intact for subsequent removal of the sampling media (1456) from the device.
US08622928B2 Needle assembly for use with a biopsy device
A needle assembly comprises an outer cannula and an inner cannula. The outer cannula and the inner cannula have complementary tissue receiving apertures. A tissue piercing tip is secured relative to one or both of the inner cannula or the outer cannula. A cutter is slidably disposed in the inner cannula. The cutter is configured to sever tissue protruding through the transverse apertures. A hub releasably secures at least part of the needle assembly relative to the body of a biopsy device.
US08622926B2 Tetherless biopsy device
A biopsy device comprises a body, a needle, and a cutter operable to sever tissue protruding through a lateral aperture of the needle. A vacuum pump is in fluid communication with the cutter. A fluid pump is in fluid communication with the needle. A fluid pump actuation assembly is operable to actuate the fluid pump to deliver a bolus of fluid to the needle based on movement of the cutter. A valve assembly responsive to cutter movement is operable to selectively couple the needle with the fluid pump, couple the needle with atmospheric air, or seal the needle relative to the fluid pump and atmospheric air. The fluid from the fluid pump and atmospheric air cooperate with the vacuum to urge severed tissue samples proximally through the cutter. Components operable to actuate the cutter and the fluid pump include coaxial lead screws having different pitch diameters.
US08622924B2 Needle tip for biopsy device
A biopsy device includes a body portion, a tip, at least one blade, and a cutter. The cannula defines at least one lumen. The cannula has a transverse aperture configured to receive tissue. The tip is located at the distal end of the cannula, and may include at least two concave surfaces. The blade extends longitudinally from the tip. A second blade may also extend longitudinally from the tip. Blades may be axially staggered relative to the cannula. Blades may also have lengths that differ from one another. In addition, a blade may have a pointed distal end, or may have a curved distal edge. The configuration of the blade and tip may provide reduced force to penetrate tissue. The blade and tip may produce a cut length that is greater than or equal to the length of the outer perimeter of the cannula.
US08622922B2 Body-worn monitor for measuring respiration rate
The invention provides a multi-sensor system that uses an algorithm based on adaptive filtering to monitor a patient's respiratory rate. The system features a first sensor which is selected from the group consisting of an impedance pneumography sensor, an ECG sensor, and a PPG sensor; and a motion sensor (e.g., an accelerometer) configured to attach to the patient's torso and measure therefrom a motion signal. The system further comprises (iii) a processing system, configured to operably connect to the first and motion sensors, and to determine a respiration rate value by applying filter parameters obtained from the first sensor signals to the motion sensor signals.
US08622919B2 Apparatus, method, and computer program for detecting a physiological measurement from a physiological sound signal
An apparatus is disclosed, comprising a speaker suitable to be applied at a user's ear and enabled to be supplied with an audio signal for rendering; a microphone arranged in vicinity of the speaker to acquire a sound signal from sounds present in the ear of the user; and a signal processor, wherein the signal processor is arranged to subtract the audio signal from the sound signal to provide a physiological sound signal, and the signal processor is further arranged to detect a physiological measurement from the physiological sound signal. A method and a computer program are also disclosed.
US08622918B1 Method for monitoring viability of tissue flaps
Methods and apparatus are used to assess the viability of tissue such as flap tissue. According to one aspect of the present invention, a method for assessing the viability of flap tissue includes obtaining an oxygen saturation level associated with a first location on the flap tissue, determining whether the oxygen saturation level is less than a first level, and identifying the first location as having a poor blood supply if the oxygen saturation level is less than the first level.
US08622917B2 Electronic sphygmomanometer
An electronic sphygmomanometer has a causing unit that causes a constant volume change in a cuff and a causing processing unit for controlling a drive of the causing unit for a period for which a first pressure control (for example, depressurization control) is made so as to execute a process for giving a constant volume change to the cuff. Further, the electronic sphygmomanometer includes a measurement control unit that controls based on a cuff pressure signal measurement of a pulse wave amplitude and a pressure change property with respect to the volume change. The electronic sphygmomanometer includes a correction processing unit that corrects the measured pulse wave amplitude based on the measured pressure change property and a blood pressure calculating unit that calculates a blood pressure value based on the corrected pulse wave amplitude.
US08622909B1 Method of locating the position of a microcalcification in a human breast
This invention relates to diagnostic and screening medical ultrasound in general and to ultrasound-stimulated detection and location, Image-based Dynamic Ultrasound Spectrography, Acoustic Radiation Force Imaging, and similar modalities in particular. In this invention, an ultrasound signal is emitted into tissue and the resulting radiation force induces localized lower frequency oscillations, which are then received by various acoustic sensors and analyzed to determine certain features or characteristics of the interrogated region. The sensors can be arranged in the form of a ring, in any random arrangements, or positioned in specifically chosen locations. An ultrasonic imaging and excitation transducer generates certain stimulating signals which are received by the breast tissues and which, if they contact a microcalcification, other target, or any region with sharply different mechanical and visco-elastic properties, will result in reflected, demodulated, or re-radiated signals. These signals will propagate away from the targets and detected by the various receiving sensors.
US08622906B2 Analyte monitoring device and methods of use
An analyte monitor includes a sensor, a sensor control unit, and a display unit. The sensor has, for example, a substrate, a recessed channel formed in the substrate, and conductive material disposed in the recessed channel to form a working electrode. The sensor control unit typically has a housing adapted for placement on skin and is adapted to receive a portion of an electrochemical sensor. The sensor control unit also includes two or more conductive contacts disposed on the housing and configured for coupling to two or more contact pads on the sensor. A transmitter is disposed in the housing and coupled to the plurality of conductive contacts for transmitting data obtained using the sensor. The display unit has a receiver for receiving data transmitted by the transmitter of the sensor control unit and a display coupled to the receiver for displaying an indication of a level of an analyte. The analyte monitor may also be part of a drug delivery system to alter the level of the analyte based on the data obtained using the sensor.
US08622904B2 Use of heat sensitive color changing formula to detect and prevent the onset of decubitus ulcers
A method for diagnosing the onset of necrosis, decubiti, and/or decubitus ulcers in the skin of a patient. Included is a topical product accessed in liquid form and applied to the skin. The product displays thermochromic temperature change when the product comes into contact with human skin tissue to identify body parts at risk for tissue necrosis by the color differences.
US08622901B2 Continuous monitoring of stress using accelerometer data
In particular embodiments, a method includes accessing data streams from an accelerometer and one or more of a heart-rate monitor, a blood-pressure monitor, a pulse oximeter, or a mood sensor monitoring a person, analyzing data sets collected from the person when the person is engaged in various activities, and determining a current stress index of the person based on the analysis.
US08622897B2 Surgical methods and surgical kits
This invention includes surgical retractors that comprise an expandable frame that includes at least two base components, a connector, and at least two retractor blades attached to the expandable frame. Also included are surgical retractors that comprise a housing component that includes a cylindrical portion and a contiguous blade portion, assemblies comprising a surgical retractor assembled to at least one obtruator, illuminated surgical cannulas, and methods of using the same during a surgical procedure.
US08622896B1 Liquid-cooled light source for endoscopy and irrigation/suction and power supply tubing and method thereof
A liquid cooled endoscopy unit having plurality of LED light source units integrated into the proximal end of the arthroscope. The LED light source is cooled by the sterile conventional irrigation fluid circulating inside a cooling chamber located in the body of the arthroscope and conveniently capable on demand of emitting UV light for fluorescein endoscopy. The inventive device conveniently incorporate and contains all tubing and power supply cables for the camera and LED light source in a single tubing.
US08622893B2 Medical appliance with a connection and disconnection system for a separable medical instrument
A medical appliance including a medical instrument that is separable from an actuator support, the appliance including a connection and disconnection system including a connector carried by the instrument and including a guide for guiding at least one actuator rod retained elastically in the guide by a head, and a coupling endpiece carried by the support and including at least one engagement mechanism that is guided in rotation and that defines a reception setback for receiving the head of the actuator rod. The engagement mechanism is fitted with a rotary coupling member complementary to the rotary coupling member presented by the connector, and the endpiece also presents at least one hook connected to an actuator system.
US08622892B2 In-vivo image acquiring apparatus and in-vivo image acquiring system
The in-vivo image acquiring apparatus includes an imaging unit which captures an inside of a subject, a transmission processing unit which wirelessly transmits the image information captured by the imaging unit, a power supply unit which supplies driving power for each unit of the apparatus, and a switching unit which detects an external input and switches a supply state of the driving power from the power supply unit. The apparatus also includes a mode setting unit which sets predetermined operation modes based on information of the external input which is input to the switching unit, and a control unit which controls the operation of each unit of the apparatus according to the operation mode set by the mode setting unit.
US08622891B2 Sexual aid device
A sexual aid device to provide increased sexual sensation in either heterosexual or homosexual intercourse characterized by a structure maintaining the male penis in pressure contact with the sensitive members of the female vagina or male anus.
US08622890B1 Flexible multi-configuration female sexual stimulation device
The present invention is a female sexual stimulation device to aid in arousal of a female through labial, clitoral, penetrative and “G” spot stimulation The device is flexible and can be formed into any desired multiplicity of shapes such as straight, a question mark, and angular so that the female sexual organ can be penetrated and aroused in different areas. The device includes protrusions to aid in stimulation and also includes a vibrator to further aid in stimulation.
US08622887B2 Sonography guided embryo transfer for in vitro fertilization
The present provides novel systems and methods to facilitate embryo transfer, to maximize implantation rates and to improve pregnancy rates resulting from In Vitro fertilization.
US08622886B2 Surgical instrument and method for the treatment of urinary incontinence
A surgical assembly including an introducer having a handle portion and a needle portion, and at least a first retaining device extending outwardly therefrom. The assembly also includes first and second sheath elements each having a proximal end, a closed tissue penetrating distal end, a channel extending therein and a side aperture extending into the channel, and an implant having first and second ends coupled to the proximal ends of the sheath elements respectively. Channels of the first and second sheath elements are dimensioned to slidably receive therein through the side aperture the needle portion of the introducer, and for each of the first and second sheath elements when the needle portion of the introducer is so received therein, the peripheral edge of the side aperture is capable of being removably coupled to the retaining device to thereby fixedly secure the sheath element to the introducer.
US08622885B2 Methods and apparatus for aligning antennas of low-powered intra- and extra-oral electronic wireless devices
The present invention relates generally to the design and optimal placement of transmitting and receiving directional antennas, a priori, as used in intra-oral to extra-oral (or visa versa) wireless electronic systems regardless of the type and purpose of the data transmitted between the antennas (intra-oral and extra-oral). Systems related to the invention transmit data via electromagnetic radio waves or through an inductive loop coupling such as in stimulating the human hearing nerve (inner ear) via dental bone conduction pathway when operating in “receive mode”. “Send mode” systems related to the invention transmit non-acoustic information or voice data from inside the mouth to a receiver located outside the mouth.
US08622881B1 Conductive member, electrophotographic apparatus, and process cartridge
The conductive member has a conductive support and a conductive elastic layer. The elastic layer is a mixture containing an electron conductive agent and a binder polymer, or a cured product thereof, and the electron conductive agent contains a carbon black satisfying the following characteristics: (i) an average primary particle diameter is 20 nm or more and 30 nm or less; (ii) a DBP oil absorption is 40 ml/100 g or more and 70 ml/100 g or less, and the total amount of CO and CO2 generated by temperature programmed desorption/mass spectrometry is 0.30 mass % or more and 0.80 mass % or less with reference to the carbon black; and (iii) the amount of SO2 generated by the temperature programmed desorption/mass spectrometry is 0.05 mass % or more with reference to the carbon black.
US08622879B1 Exercise shoe methods and apparatus
Exercise shoe assemblies include a shoe body, at least one support bracket integrated into the shoe body, and a resistance device connected to the support bracket. The resistance device preferably includes a flexible member, and may include a housing from which the flexible member is extracted.
US08622876B2 Rowing simulator
Rowing simulators that include a variety of features that provide one or more rowers with a rowing experience that more accurately simulates on-water rowing and/or provide enhanced training feedback. One feature is a rowing station that includes one or two oars each having a vertical-feel emulator implemented as a compliant guide follower that engages a corresponding oar guide during the drive phase of the rowing stroke so as to simulate an oar's engagement with water during on-water rowing. In other embodiments, the vertical-feel emulator is incorporated into an oar support. Other features include: stroke gauges that provide visual feedback on the various phases of a rower's stroke, including the catch phase, drive phase, finish phase, and recovery phase; an oar feathering indicator; and seats linked together for training rowers to row in unison, among others.
US08622864B2 Dual differential semi-active actuator fit for interaction tasks and fast motion
The present invention relates a mechanical differential actuator for interacting with a mechanical load. The mechanical differential actuator comprises first and second semi-active sub-actuators, a velocity source and first and second mechanical differentials having three interaction ports each. The first mechanical differential includes a first interaction port coupled to the velocity source, a second interaction port and a third interaction port coupled to the first semi-active sub-actuator. The second mechanical differential includes a first interaction port coupled to the velocity source, a second interaction port and a third interaction port coupled to the second semi-active sub-actuator. Finally, the second interaction ports of the first and second mechanical differentials are coupled together to form an output which is configured so as to be coupled to the load.
US08622858B2 Leaf chain
A leaf chain comprises a plurality of links connected together, each of which includes two aligned rollers, at least one first inner plate provided with apertures to pivotally receive the rollers, and two outer plates fixed to the respective rollers and respectively positioned at external sides of the first inner plate. Wherein, two spacers are respectively disposed at both peripheries of the aperture on the first inner plate and annularly disposed on the rollers so as to block a leakage of a lubricant distributed over an interstice formed between each roller and each aperture.
US08622857B2 Inflatable ball with rib structure
An inflatable ball includes interconnected first and second half ball bodies. The first half ball body has a first half ball wall with first inner and outer wall surfaces, and a first rib structure formed as one piece with the first half ball wall and projecting from one of the first inner and outer wall surfaces. The first half ball wall has a through hole extending through the first inner and outer wall surfaces, and a first annular connecting edge interconnecting circumferential ends of the first inner and outer wall surfaces. The second half ball body has a second half ball wall with second inner and outer wall surfaces, and a second rib structure projecting from one of the second inner and outer wall surfaces. A valve unit is attached to the first half ball body in connection with the through hole.
US08622853B1 Golf training device
A golf training device including a target tee having a ground anchor, a rotating disc, and interchangeable tee heads for providing different tee heights. The interchangeable tee heads are coupled to a resilient member to allow the tee head to pivot and vertically reset itself after repeated impacts from a golf club. The training device includes alignment rods that are releasably attached to the rotating disc to provide golfer stance and body alignment, club face alignment, and ball positioning. The rotating disc is rotated to realign the alignment rods with a new intended target. A T-shaped adaptor is provided to extend alignment rods away from the rotating disc and to assist golfers with putting techniques.
US08622852B2 Low lift golf ball
A golf ball having a plurality of dimples formed on its outer surface, the outer surface of the golf ball being divided into plural areas, a first group of areas containing a plurality of first dimples and a second group of areas containing a plurality of second dimples, each area of the second group abutting one or more areas of the first group, the first and second groups of areas and dimple shapes and dimensions being configured such that the golf ball is spherically symmetrical as defined by the United States Golf Association (USGA) Symmetry Rules and such that the first and second groups of areas produced different aerodynamic effects, and the first dimples being of different dimensions from the second dimples.
US08622850B2 Putter head
This invention provides a putter head comprising a head body and a face insert mounted on a face surface of the head body. Slits are vertically aligned in multiple stages so as to extend in the face insert in a toe-to-heel direction. A depending portion is provided in the slit on a side of the face surface so as to reduce a vertical dimension of the slit. The slit is filled with a viscoelastic material.
US08622849B1 Golf club head with improved aerodynamic characteristics
A driver type golf club head comprising a body having a face, a crown and a sole, wherein the highest point of the crown surface is located within a crown apex zone, and a portion of the crown contour exists above a radius arc of approximately 5.25 inches.
US08622848B2 Interchangeable shaft and club head connection system
Disclosed herein is a golf club including a shaft, a club head and several devices for releasably connecting the shaft to the club head.
US08622847B2 Golf club
A golf club comprises a shaft, a club head, and a connection assembly that allows the shaft to be easily disconnected from the club head. In particular embodiments, the connection assembly includes a removable hosel sleeve that allows a shaft to be supported a desired predetermined orientation relative to the club head. In this manner, the shaft loft and/or lie angle of the club can be adjusted without resorting to traditional bending of the shaft. In another embodiment, the club head has an adjustable sole that can be adjusted upwardly and downwardly relative to the strike face of the club head, which is effective to adjust the face angle of the club head.
US08622842B2 Virtual leash for personal gaming device
Methods and systems for providing a virtual leash and command download capabilities on a hand-held personal gaming device (“PGD”) are disclosed. A host gaming system includes a game server configured to generate game seeds having data regarding predetermined game outcomes for various wager based games, and an authentication server configured to establish a virtual leash with a PGD. The virtual leash is adapted to repeatedly authenticate or verify a PGD user, a PGD location, the PGD itself, and/or software codes on the PGD. Included within an associated PGD are a display adapted to display gaming related information, a processor configured to execute gaming related code, and a memory containing a command download of computer code to be executed by the processor. The command download of computer code includes enough code for the PGD to process and display independently a game play based on a game seed.
US08622838B2 Player tracking communication mechanisms in a gaming machine
A disclosed a player tracking unit provides a multimedia interface with a display and an interface to one or more sound projection devices and a multimedia board for processing digitally formatted program files for output on the multimedia interface. The player tracking unit may provide menus of audio and video programs, such as a menu for a musical jukebox or a menu for a video-on-demand service. Using a “TV-like” interface, a user may be able to select a program to output on the multimedia interface and control playback features of the program.
US08622837B2 Managing game metrics and authorizations
Various metrics as may be deployed in an active, passive, or hybrid validation architecture are disclosed. A computing device configured to monitor network game activity may identify an inconsistency between user game data and a particular game metric governing a particular aspect of the network gaming environment. Upon identification of an inconsistency between game data and a game metric, which may indicative of illicit game play, a validation process (e.g., active, passive, and/or hybrid) may be implemented to further confirm the existence of illicit game. Alternatively, an action to maintain integrity of the gaming community may be executed without further confirmation whereby a purportedly illicit game device may be ejected from the network.
US08622833B2 User interface apparatus and operational sensitivity adjusting method
A controller interface processor of a user interface apparatus acquires the tilt of a game controller as a rotational value from a sensor built in the game controller. An operation amount determining unit selects a sensitivity characteristic pattern from a plurality of sensitivity characteristic patterns different in the reaction sensitivity of an operation amount with respect to the rotational value in accordance with the width of a range of the rotational value, refers to the selected sensitivity characteristic pattern, and determines the operation amount corresponding to the rotational value acquired.
US08622827B2 Game system and control method of controlling computer used thereof
Disclosed is a game system provided with a monitor for displaying and outputting a game screen, a touch panel overlaid upon the monitor, and an external storage device for storing sequence data wherein operation time periods of the touch panel during a game are described. The sequence data includes an object corresponding to a specific operation time period for which the time interval between the following operation time period is to be less than a predetermined value, and display start information for setting a display start time period which is earlier than the following operation time period. In addition, the game system, on the basis of the sequence data, associates a second object separate from a first object corresponding to the following operation time period with the specific operation time period to cause display to start earlier than the following operation time period.
US08622825B2 Mechanically rotating wheel with changeable image
A gaming machine includes a gaming machine controller configured to control game play on the gaming machine, and a wheel assembly rotatably coupled to the gaming machine controller. The wheel assembly includes a front portion having an inner surface and at least one projector, wherein the at least one projector is configured to rotate with the wheel assembly and to project an image across at least a portion of the inner surface during game play.
US08622822B2 Gaming machine, gaming information authentication and acquisition device, and gaming information acquisition device
A gaming machine includes a gaming operation execution device, a loading device and a processing device. The gaming operation execution device executes gaming operations. The loading device includes a connector for connecting a storage medium which stores gaming information, a program memory for storing an authentication program, and a processor for authenticating the gaming information with the authentication program. The processing device is connected to the loading device and includes a readable and writable memory, a reading unit for reading out the gaming information authenticated by the processor, a writing unit for writing the gaming information to the readable and writable memory, and an operation control unit for controlling the gaming operation execution device.
US08622818B2 Gaming machine and control method thereof
The controller of the gaming machine executing processing operations of: (a) determining a magnification of a respective one of plural kinds of colors which are produced in a color displayable manner by means of the multiple color light emitting backlight and then displaying on the display; (b) determining a light emitting color by means of the multiple color light emitting backlight and then controlling light emission in the determined color; and (c) executing a payout of a number which is obtained by multiplying the magnification that corresponds to the color determined in the processing (b), from among the magnifications of the respective colors, the magnifications being determined in the processing (a), for a payment that corresponds to the pattern of the specific symbols.
US08622813B2 Game system and control method of game system, and link system
A game system of the present invention serves to: (a) compare a first predetermined count predetermined for first identification information with a reception count of input data, based upon the first identification information included in the input data of a first gaming machine among the plurality of gaming machines, and thereafter, execute a random determination process as to whether or not to award a first prize, in a case where the reception count has reached the first predetermined count; and (b) compare a second predetermined count predetermined for second identification information with a reception count of input data, based upon the second identification information included in the input data of a second gaming machine among the plurality of gaming machines, and thereafter, execute a random determination process as to whether or not to award a second prize, in a case where the reception count has reached the second predetermined count.
US08622812B2 Wagering game with persistent state of game assets affecting other players
A gaming system includes a plurality of linked gaming machines, each gaming machine including a display for displaying a plurality of symbols that indicates a randomly selected outcome of a wagering game. The randomly selected outcome is selected from a plurality of outcomes in response to a wager input. Each gaming machine allows a player to achieve a player level from a plurality of player levels. The gaming system further includes a controller linked to the gaming machines. The controller is adapted to permit a certain community-event game from a plurality of community-game events to be played at two or more of gaming machines in response to a conditional state at the gaming machines. The conditional state is a function of the player levels at the gaming machines.
US08622811B1 Wagering game with a guaranteed but variable bonus payout
A gaming system and method includes one or more input devices, display devices, processors, and memory devices. The memory device(s) store instructions that, when executed by the processor(s), cause the gaming system to receive an input indicative of a wager for a base wagering game, initiate the base wagering game, initiate a bonus game, and establish a minimum bonus payout threshold for the bonus game. At least one bonus game outcome is determined for the bonus game. An aggregate award is determined for the at least one bonus game outcome. In response to the aggregate award being greater than the minimum bonus payout threshold, the aggregate award is awarded. In response to the aggregate award being less than the minimum bonus payout threshold, the aggregate award is awarded plus a supplemental award. The supplemental award is equal to the difference between the minimum bonus payout threshold and the aggregate award.
US08622810B2 Gaming machine with replacement of runs of symbols containing identical symbols with new identical symbols
A gaming machine comprising a processor configured to execute a game displaying a matrix of symbol containing elements having a plurality of rows and a plurality columns; at least one column of said matrix comprising a portion of a simulated rotatable reel of a plurality of said symbol containing elements; said simulated rotatable reel comprising sections of symbol containing elements displaying a plurality of symbols; said simulated rotatable reel including at least one section in which a consecutive run of two or more of said symbol containing elements is populated by a first identical symbol so that, said first identical symbol being used for a first play of said game, a second identical symbol being randomly selected, the first identical symbol being replaced by the second identical symbol in said consecutive run of two or more of said symbol containing elements, said second identical symbol being used for a second play of said game.
US08622807B2 Gaming machine capable of realistically informing of a payout rate
The present invention provides a gaming machine that is capable of realistically informing a player of a payout rate, and that is capable of having a variety of entertainment properties by means of a variety of games. The gaming machine is adapted to display a specific symbol that can be employed in place of another symbol, so as to be substituted for any of symbols to be scrolled, by means of random determination, in a bonus game, to thereby able to cause a possibility that a prize to be awarded to a player increases every time a specific symbol is entered and then visually display a state that is indicative of such possible increase.
US08622805B2 Wagering game for awarding positional game modifiers in a plurality of plays
A method for conducting a wagering game includes awarding a plurality of positional game modifiers and a plurality of plays of the wagering game. Each play includes a set of assignable positions such that a plurality of sets of assignable positions occur over the plurality of plays, at least some of the assignable positions bearing symbols. The plurality of positional game modifiers are randomly assigned to positions in the plurality of sets of assignable positions. The plurality of plays are displayed on a display device. A processor is used to determine an outcome of each of the plays taking into account any of the positional game modifiers assigned to the positions in the set of assignable positions of each play.
US08622804B2 Gaming machine which is executable rescue process in response to insurance bet and gaming method thereof
A gaming machine runs a base game in which symbols 501 are rearranged and a base payout is awarded according to the rearranged symbols 501, when a game value is bet, runs a bonus game in which the symbols 501 are rearranged with a higher payout rate than that of the game and a bonus payout is awarded according to the rearranged symbols 501, if the symbols 501 are rearranged in a predetermined condition in the base game, makes an insurance bet by using at least a part of the bonus payout awarded in the bonus game, determines whether a rescue start condition is established, if the insurance bet has been made, and performs a rescue process if the rescue start condition has been established.
US08622798B2 Method of and system for conducting multiple contests of skill with a single performance
A method of and system for conducting multiple competitions of skill for a single performance are described herein. User generated competition groups and system generated competition groups allow users to participate in multiple competitions at once based on answering the same questions or making the same selections related to a single event. The users are informed of each competition either via email, text message or when logging into the network via a website. The users select which competitions groups to join. After joining the desired groups, the users then make their selections related to the event which are transmitted to the network where results are tabulated and transmitted back to the users. The results are separated based on each competition group, so that users can continually know where they stand in each separate competition. With multiple competition groups, users are able to have varying success from the same performance in multiple competitions.
US08622797B2 Apparatus and method for recommending roster moves in fantasy sports systems
Roster modification recommendations are provided in fantasy sports leagues based on projected statistics of one or more players. Available players or players on other teams can be analyzed according to projected statistics, and the projected statistics can be compared to projected statistics of one or more players on the team. In addition, the projected statistics can be further narrowed based on a specified period of time, desired positions, and/or the like. Based on the comparison, trade or acquisition recommendations can be generated for the team. Other parameters can be utilized in making such recommendations, such as a waiver status of the team, a propensity of a team owner to accept trades, etc. In addition, statistics can be projected for players based on one or more received statistics projections.
US08622796B2 Gaming system that navigates dealer in game advancement and prevents fraud
The present invention provides a gaming system that can allow a game to be appropriately advanced even by an inexperienced dealer by way of navigating the dealer in game advancement, thereby allowing fraud to be avoided and cost to be reduced. An image input device, which captures images for displaying to players playing the game at a plurality of stations, captures an image of a side of a game portion on which the dealer is positioned to include card placement areas. Then, a controller performs image recognition processing of comparing image data of the card placement areas captured by the image input device with comparative image data stored in memory. Thereafter, in a case in which image recognition processing results in an image showing a card being included, the score of the card game is calculated based on recognition results of the images showing cards.
US08622794B2 Network dart game system for competition participation and method thereof
An apparatus and method for an electronic dart game using an internet communication network, which notifies users of various competitions and provides a method of participating in the various competitions using a plurality of electronic dart game apparatuses connected to an internet communication network without a separate homepage. A method of participating in a competition using a plurality of dart game apparatuses connected with a server through a network including inputting information on players who desire to participate in a competition and information on a competition in which players desire to participate, by using a dart game apparatus; transmitting information including player information and competition information to the server by the dart game apparatus; processing payment by registering that a competition entry fee corresponding to the competition information is paid, by the server; and registering a player as a player participating in the competition, by the server.
US08622790B2 Airflow guide
An airflow guide includes a top cover and two side covers. The two side covers are disposed on opposite ends of the top cover. At least one of the two side covers includes a base plate and a sliding plate. The base plate is fixedly connected to the top cover. The sliding plate is slidably connected to the base plate. The sliding plate slides relative to the base plate, such that an air inlet is defined in the at least one of the two side covers.
US08622786B2 Interchangeable sanding system
An embodiment of the present invention is directed to a multi-purpose sanding system. The sanding system includes a motor, a drive mechanism in mechanical communication with the motor, and a plurality of interchangeable sanding devices. Each of the interchangeable sanding devices is interchangeably coupleable with the drive mechanism.
US08622784B2 Method for selectively removing portions of an abradable coating using a water jet
A method and apparatus for forming raised ridges on the surface of a turbine component having an abradable coating formed on an outer surface thereof which includes a mask having a predetermined pattern of openings therein adjacent the abradable coating on a surface of the turbine component; and a high pressure water jet that has movement relative to the mask so that the high pressure water jet passes along the extent of the openings in the mask and passes through the openings in the mask to remove portions of the abradable coating on the turbine component located beneath the openings in the mask.
US08622783B2 Method and system for controlling chemical mechanical polishing by controllably moving a slurry outlet
A system and a method of operating a chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) system comprises a slurry delivering unit configured for locally varying the supply of slurry while polishing the substrate. To this end, the slurry delivering unit may comprise at least one slurry outlet over a polishing pad of the CMP system, wherein the at least one slurry outlet is controllably movable to distribute slurry over the polishing pad.
US08622780B2 Light-emitting element, light-emitting device, and vapor deposition apparatus
To provide a light-emitting element and a light-emitting device which can be designed and manufactured with redundancy. A light-emitting element of the invention includes a pair of electrode, and a layer containing a light-emissive substance between the pair of electrodes. The layer containing a light-emissive substance includes a layer containing a composite material, and the layer containing a composite material includes an organic compound and an inorganic compound. The concentration ratio of the organic compound to the inorganic compound changes periodically. The layer containing a composite maternal can be changed in electrical characteristics without changing the composition ratio of the organic compound to the inorganic compound in the layer or changing the kind of compounds used for the layer.
US08622778B2 Programmable automatic docking system
A programmable automatic docking system for a marine vessel, wherein the programmable automatic docking system includes a set of starboard side transducers and a set of port side transducers to detect and transmit real-time distance, position and velocity information of the marine vessel in relation to an external object. A programmable processor control unit receives the real-time distance, position and velocity information to control a set of propulsion elements to automatically control the marine vessels direct path of travel toward an external object and maintain the marine vessel at a pre-selected distance once the pre-selected distance is reached.
US08622775B2 Connection structural body
In a connection structural body, an aluminum electric wire tip part and a crimp terminal are connected to each other. The aluminum electric wire tip part is an exposed tip part of an insulated wire including an aluminum core wire and an insulating cover for covering the aluminum core wire. The crimp terminal includes a wire barrel section for pressure-bonding and thus connecting the aluminum electric wire tip part and is formed of a metal material having a higher potential than that of the aluminum core wire. The aluminum electric wire tip part is covered with a cover solder and/or a cover resin, pressure-bonded, and connected to the wire barrel section such that the aluminum electric wire tip part is covered with the cover and/or the cover resins, with no gap, from an insulating cover tip part to a rear end portion of the wire barrel section.
US08622773B2 Connecting flexible conductors using cold plastic deformation
Electrical component for low-voltage switching devices having an electrode comprised of a substantially rigid body with one or more slots and at least one flexible conductor with an end portion inserted into and joined to an associated slot by means of cold plastic deformation.
US08622769B2 Terminal fitting and fluidproof connector provided therewith
A female terminal has left and right stabilizers (30) extending from one surface of a rectangular tubular main portion (21). The stabilizers (30) are formed at predetermined distances in from opposite left and right lateral edges of the surface of the main portion (21) toward a widthwise center and assume oblique postures so that both extending ends gradually come closer to each other. The extending ends of the both stabilizers (30) are located within a circumscribed circle (X) of the main portion (21), C-surfaces (35A) are formed on corner portions of the outer lateral edges of extending end surfaces (31) of the both stabilizers (30) and R-surfaces (37A) are formed on lateral edges (36) of the C-surfaces (35A) on base end sides of the stabilizers (30).
US08622768B2 Connector with capacitively coupled connector interface
A connector with a capacitively coupled connector interface for interconnection with a female portion is provided with an annular groove, with a sidewall, open to an interface end of the female portion. A male portion is provided with a male outer conductor coupling surface at an interface end, covered by an outer conductor dielectric spacer. The male outer conductor coupling surface is dimensioned to seat, spaced apart from the sidewall by the outer conductor dielectric spacer, within the annular groove, when the male portion and the female portion are in an interlocked position, secured by a releasable retainer dimensioned to secure the male portion and the female portion in the interlocked position.
US08622767B2 Connector
A connector includes an insulator, into which a thin plate-like object is removably insertable, including contact insertion grooves and partition walls positioned therebetween and contacts inserted into the contact insertion grooves, each of the contacts including first and second contact portions spaced from each other to allow the thin plate-like object to be inserted therebetween, and including a connecting portion connecting the first and second contact portions. At least one of the first and second contact portions contacts the thin plate-like object when inserted into the insulator. A hollow portion having a greater width than the contact insertion grooves is formed in each partition wall to superimpose part of each contact as viewed in a contact arranging direction, and the partition walls prevent each hollow portion from being communicatively connected with the contact insertion grooves.
US08622764B2 Integrated translational land-grid array sockets and loading mechanisms for semiconductive devices
A land-grid array die package socket is configured for low- or zero insertion-force assembly with a land-grid array die package. For zero insertion-force assembly, a motion plate applies a force on a land-grid array contact that causes a contact tip to move into protective cover while the die package is inserted into the socket. After zero insertion-force assembly, the motion plate applies a force on the land-grid array contact that causes the contact tip to deflect in a positive-Z direction until a useful contact is made at the contact tip with a land-grid array pad.
US08622759B2 Electrical fitting and safety cover
A safety cover for a socket or switch has a frame arranged to extend on three sides of a rectangular faceplate of the socket or switch and a cover panel hinged to the frame for pivotal movement towards and away from a position in which the cover panel conceals the faceplate. The frame is of U-shape and defines an opening in which the faceplate is received. The frame has inwardly directed lips contiguous with a rear face of the frame that locate behind the faceplate on opposite sides of the opening clear of the fixing screws used to secure the faceplate to a mounting box. The safety cover can be fitted by partially releasing the screws and sliding the lips under the faceplate as the frame is positioned around the faceplate and then tightening the screws to secure the faceplate and hold the frame in place by securing the lips under the faceplate.
US08622755B2 Connector cover and junction box unit provided with the same
There is provided a junction box unit that comprises a body to which a power integration unit is attached and a connector cover that positions a connector of a wiring harness with respect to the body. The connector cover comprises a holding portion holding the connector, a mounting portion attached to the body, and a main body to be accommodated therein. The mounting portion comprises an engagement projection and an engagement arm. The engagement projection protrudes from one end of the main body for locking engagement with a locking portion of the junction box body. The engagement arm includes an arm main body having one end continuing to an outer surface of the other end of the main body and a free end. A protrusion is provided at the central portion of the arm main body for locking engagement with the locking portion. When the protrusion is in locking engagement with the locking portion, the other end of the arm main body is positioned more outwardly of the body than the locking portion.
US08622750B2 Whiteboard
A whiteboard (10) comprising a transparent panel (12) locatable in front of a surface (18) and a screening means (14). The screening means (14) is changeable between a first state in which the view through the transparent panel (12) is unobstructed and a second state in which the screening means (14) obstructs the view through the transparent panel (12).
US08622749B2 Four bar drive link system simulator
A four bar drive link system simulator 10 has a frame assembly 11, a proximal hinge attachment bracket 20, a bottom bracket simulator 40, a pair of crank levers 31L, 31R, a pair of coupling levers 32 and a pair of pedal simulator levers 22L, 22R. The frame assembly 11 has a plurality of guide rails, including at least a proximal hinge adjustment rail 22, and a frame simulator rail 13. The proximal hinge attachment bracket 20 is connected to the proximal hinge adjustment rail 22. The bottom bracket simulator 40 is attached or otherwise connected to the frame simulator rail 13. The pair of crank levers 31L, 31R is each attached at a first end to an axle 42 having its axis of rotation in the bottom bracket simulator 40, one crank lever being on one side of the bottom bracket simulator 40, the other on the opposite side. The pair of coupling levers 32 is each attached to an opposite second end of the crank lever 31L or 31R. The pair of pedal simulator levers 22R, 22L is each pivotally attached to an end of the coupling lever 32 and to an axle 23 having an axis of rotation 50 at the proximal hinge attachment bracket 20. The relative dimensions between the axis of rotation of proximal hinge and axis of rotation of the bottom bracket 40 are adjustable by movement along the proximal hinge guide rail 22 or the frame simulator guide rail 13 or a combination of both.
US08622746B2 Buoyant device for teaching and training
A teaching aid is provided for use in swim training. The teaching aid comprises a unitary body that is approximately U-shaped. The body defines an opening adapted to receive a torso of a swimmer. The body further comprises a pair of end portions, each of which is tapered to a rounded tip. The end portions further comprise inward-facing fins. A method using a teaching aid for a variety of swimming techniques including front kick, back kick, starfish, doggy paddle, front crawl, back crawl, elementary back, breaststroke, dolphin kick and eggbeater kick is also provided. A method of using the teaching aid and a method of providing instructions to a swimmer to use the teaching aid are also provided.
US08622745B2 Visual stimulous game
An aid is disclosed for a trainer teaching a student motor skills. A magnetically-inert shield receives a magnetically-inert screen fixed to the front side thereof. A token has a magnetically-attractive material, and a token controller has a first magnet, such that the token controller may be used to move the token around on the screen when the token controller is pressed up against the rear side of the shield. One of the screens may include at least one raised portion raised off of the front surface of the screen a distance sufficient to receive the token thereunder. Various activities and games may be played with the aid, revolving primarily about the student trying to grasp a token that is moved by the trainer about the screen.
US08622744B2 Mobile Training trailer for electric transmission lines
A method and apparatus for training one or more workers to work in a wire environment are provided. The apparatus may have a mobile platform. The apparatus may have a first training aid coupleable to the mobile platform, wherein the first training aid is configured to be moved from a transport position to a training position and a second training aid coupleable to the mobile platform, wherein the second training aid is configured to be moved from the transport position to the training position. In the training position, the first training aid and the second training aid provide a training work location that is elevated above the mobile platform for work to be performed by the one or more workers on an aerial vehicle and in the transport position the first training aid and the second training aid may be transported on the mobile platform on a highway.
US08622743B2 Wagering game training tool for wagering systems
A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include initiating, at a gaming machine, an analysis mode of a wagering game training tool associated with a wagering game, and determining when a player has played a predefined number of rounds of the wagering game. The operations can also include determining a skill level associated with the player for one or more areas of skill associated with the wagering game based, at least in part, on the predefined number of rounds played by the player. The operations can further include identifying an area of skill associated with the wagering game where the skill level associated with the player is less than a predefined skill level, and initiating a training mode of the wagering game training tool to improve the skill level associated with the player in the identified area of skill.
US08622742B2 Teaching gestures with offset contact silhouettes
A method for providing multi-touch input training on a display surface is disclosed. A touch input is detected at one or more regions of the display surface. A visualization of the touch input is displayed at a location of the display surface offset from the touch input. One or more annotations are displayed at a location of the display surface offset from the touch input and proximate to the visualization, where each annotation shows a different legal continuation of the touch input.
US08622740B2 Pyrotechnic audio and visual effects for combat simulation
A system and method for manipulating an environment to create a tactical combat scenario requires the coordinated implementation of various actions. One requires detonating an explosion simulator to create a smoke cloud with pseudo shrapnel. Another requires activating a sound enhancer, and yet another involves making a fire-ball. The combined result of these concerted actions is a perception of a single explosive event. Importantly, personnel can be within approximately one foot of any action without suffering a significant injury.
US08622737B2 Perforated flame tube for a liquid fuel burner
A flame tube for a liquid fuel burner is disclosed. The liquid fuel burner includes a fuel atomizer directing atomized fuel into the flame tube and an igniter disposed within the flame tube to ignite the atomized fuel. The flame tube comprises an outer wall and an inner wall disposed about the outer wall to define an air passage therebetween. At a discharge end of the flame tube, the outer and inner walls are conjoined to form an annular surface, the annular surface being perforated. Preferably, the annular surface is perforated in an evenly distributed pattern.
US08622731B2 Apparatus for forming flanges on components
An apparatus for forming a flange on a component is provided. The apparatus comprises a mold disposed for placement of the component thereon, a forming element configured to hold the component on the mold to facilitate formation of the flange, and a pressure element configured to cooperate with the mold to define a space therebetween. The apparatus further comprises a bladder disposed in the space and configured to impart a forming force to a portion of the component to form the flange on the component when the bladder is inflated. A method for forming a flange on a component is also presented.
US08622723B2 Scroll compressor
A scroll compressor includes first and second scroll members housed in a casing. The first scroll member has a fluid inlet and a first through hole spaced from the fluid inlet. A fluid introducing pipe is configured to connect to the first through hole. A piston, having an annular groove and a second through hole, is disposed in the first through hole and is biased toward the fluid introducing pipe. The piston is configured to shut an end of the first through hole when fluid pressure larger than the biasing force is introduced into the fluid introducing pipe and to open the end of the first through hole when fluid pressure smaller than the biasing force is introduced into the fluid introducing pipe. A piston ring is fitted into the annular groove of the piston and has a stepped fitting end.