Document Document Title
US08659115B2 Airgap-containing interconnect structure with improved patternable low-K material and method of fabricating
A method of fabricating an airgap-containing interconnect structure in which a patternable low-k material replaces the need for utilizing a separate photoresist and a dielectric material is provided. Specifically, a simplified method of fabricating single-damascene and dual-damascene airgap-containing low-k interconnect structures with at least one patternable low-k dielectric and at least one inorganic antireflective coating is provided.
US08659112B2 Carbon and nitrogen doping for selected PMOS transistor on an integrated circuit
A method of forming an integrated circuit (IC) including a core and a non-core PMOS transistor includes forming a non-core gate structure including a gate electrode on a gate dielectric and a core gate structure including a gate electrode on a gate dielectric. The gate dielectric for the non-core gate structure is at least 2 Å of equivalent oxide thickness (EOT) thicker as compared to the gate dielectric for the core gate structure. P-type lightly doped drain (PLDD) implantation including boron establishes source/drain extension regions in the substrate. The PLDD implantation includes selective co-implanting of carbon and nitrogen into the source/drain extension region of the non-core gate structure. Source and drain implantation forms source/drain regions for the non-core and core gate structure, wherein the source/drain regions are distanced from the non-core and core gate structures further than their source/drain extension regions. Source/drain annealing is performed after source and drain implantation.
US08659110B2 Single-junction photovoltaic cell
A single-junction photovoltaic cell includes a doped layer comprising a dopant diffused into a semiconductor substrate; a patterned conducting layer formed on the doped layer; a semiconductor layer comprising the semiconductor substrate located on the doped layer on a surface of the doped layer opposite the patterned conducting layer; and an ohmic contact layer formed on the semiconductor layer.
US08659105B2 Wiring substrate, imaging device and imaging device module
A imaging device includes a first insulating substrate having a through hole, a connection electrode and a first wiring conductor, a second insulating substrate having outside terminals and a second wiring conductor, and an imaging element including a light-receiving portion arranged at a center portion on an upper surface thereof and a connection terminal arranged at an outer peripheral portion thereof, at least one of the lower surface of the first insulating substrate and the upper surface of the second insulating substrate including a recess portion, the through hole being located on an inner side thereof, the imaging element being arranged below the first insulating substrate such that the light-receiving portion is located within the through hole, the connection terminal being electrically connected to the connection electrode, the imaging element being accommodated inside the recess portion, outer peripheral portions of the first insulating substrate and the second insulating substrate being electrically connected to each other.
US08659104B2 Field-effect magnetic sensor
A field-effect magnetic sensor facilitates highly-sensitive magnetic field detection. In accordance with one or more example embodiments, current flow respectively between first and second source/drain terminals and a third source/drain terminal is controlled using inversion layers in separate channel regions for each of the first and second terminals. In response to a magnetic field, a greater amount of current is passed between the third source/drain terminal and one of the first and second source/drain terminals, relative to an amount of current passed between the third source/drain terminal and the other one of the first and second source/drain terminals.
US08659091B2 Embedded stressors for multigate transistor devices
Multigate transistor devices and methods of their fabrication are disclosed. In accordance with one method, a fin and a gate structure that is disposed on a plurality of surfaces of the fin are formed. In addition, at least a portion of an extension of the fin is removed to form a recessed portion that is below the gate structure, is below a channel region of the fin, and includes at least one angled indentation. Further, a terminal extension is grown in the at least one angled indentation below the channel region and along a surface of the channel region such that the terminal extension provides a stress on the channel region to enhance charge carrier mobility in the channel region.
US08659090B2 Resistive memory and methods for forming the same
A device includes an active region formed of a semiconductor material, a gate dielectric at a surface of the active region, and a gate electrode over the gate dielectric. A first source/drain region and a second source/drain region are on opposite sides of the gate electrode. A Contact Etch Stop Layer (CESL) is over the first and the second source/drain regions. An Inter-Layer Dielectric (ILD) includes a top surface substantially level with a top surface of the gate electrode. A first contact plug is over and electrically connected to the first source/drain region. A second contact plug is over and aligned to the second source/drain region. The second contact plug and the second source/drain region are spaced apart from each other by a portion of the first CESL to form a capacitor.
US08659088B2 SRAM cell and SRAM device
An SRAM cell includes six four-terminal double gate FETs formed on four semiconductor thin film plates, in which first and third FETs, fourth and fifth FETs, third and fourth FETs, and second and sixth FETs neighbor each other and logic signal input gates thereof are formed on facing side surfaces of respective semiconductor thin film plates; the second and sixth FETs sandwich second and third plates; the threshold voltage control gates of the second, third, fourth, and sixth FETs are connected in common to a first bias wiring; threshold voltage control gates of the first and fifth FETs are connected in common to a second bias wiring; and the word line and the first and second bias wirings are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the alignment direction of the first to the fourth plates.
US08659087B2 Electronic device with a gate electrode having at least two portions
A transistor structure of an electronic device can include a gate dielectric layer and a gate electrode. The gate electrode can have a surface portion between the gate dielectric layer and the rest of the gate electrode. The surface portion can be formed such that another portion of the gate electrode primarily sets the effective work function in the finished transistor structure.
US08659082B2 Method for manufacturing a semiconductor device having super junction structure
A semiconductor device having a super junction structure includes: multiple first columns extending in a current flowing direction; and multiple second columns extending in the current flowing direction. The first and second columns are alternately arranged in an alternating direction. Each first column provides a drift layer. The first and second columns have a boundary therebetween, from which a depletion layer expands in case of an off-state. At least one of the first columns and the second columns have an impurity dose, which is inhomogeneous by location with respect to the alternating direction.
US08659081B2 Transistor with reduced channel length variation
According to an exemplary embodiment, a method for fabricating a MOS transistor, such as an LDMOS transistor, includes forming a self-aligned lightly doped region in a first well underlying a first sidewall of a gate. The method further includes forming a self-aligned extension region under a second sidewall of the gate, where the self-aligned extension region extends into the first well from a second well. The method further includes forming a drain region spaced apart from the second sidewall of the gate. The method further includes forming a source region in the self-aligned lightly doped region and the first well. The self-aligned lightly doped region and the self-aligned extension region define a channel length of the MOS transistor, such as an LDMOS transistor.
US08659074B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device includes a semiconductor layer of a first conductivity type and a semiconductor layer of a second conductivity type formed thereon. The semiconductor device also includes a body layer extending a first predetermined distance into the semiconductor layer of the second conductivity type and a pair of trenches extending a second predetermined distance into the semiconductor layer of the second conductivity type. Each of the pair of trenches consists essentially of a dielectric material disposed therein and a concentration of doping impurities present in the semiconductor layer of the second conductivity type and a distance between the pair of trenches define an electrical characteristic of the semiconductor device. The semiconductor device further includes a control gate coupled to the semiconductor layer of the second conductivity type and a source region coupled to the semiconductor layer of the second conductivity type.
US08659073B2 Semiconductor device
An ESD protection element is disclosed in which LOCOS oxide films are formed at both ends of a gate electrode, and a conductivity type of a diffusion layer formed below one of the LOCOS oxide films which is not located on a drain side is set to a p-type, to thereby limit an amount of a current flowing in a portion below a source-side n-type high concentration diffusion layer, the current being generated due to surface breakdown of a drain. With this structure, even in a case of protecting a high withstanding voltage element, it is possible to maintain an off-state during a steady state, while operating, upon application of a surge or noise to a semiconductor device, so as not to reach a breakage of an internal element, discharging a generated large current, and then returning to the off-state again.
US08659068B2 Dynamic memory structure
A DRAM memory structure at least includes a strip semiconductive material disposed on a substrate and extending along a first direction, a split gate disposed on the substrate and extending along a second direction, a dielectric layer at least sandwiched between the split gate and the substrate, a gate dielectric layer at least sandwiched between the split gate and the strip semiconductive material, and a capacitor unit. The split gate independently includes a first block and a second block to divide the strip semiconductive material into a source terminal, a drain terminal and a channel. The capacitor unit is electrically connected to the source terminal.
US08659064B2 Semiconductor barrier layer constructions, and methods of forming semiconductor barrier layer constructions
The invention includes methods of utilizing compositions containing iridium and tantalum in semiconductor constructions, and includes semiconductor constructions comprising compositions containing iridium and tantalum. The compositions containing iridium and tantalum can be utilized as barrier materials, and in some aspects can be utilized as barriers to copper diffusion.
US08659063B2 Pin capacitor of semiconductor device and method for fabricating the same
A pin capacitor of a semiconductor device includes a first isolation layer formed in a substrate and defining a dummy active area, a plurality of gates formed over the first isolation layer, a spacer formed at both sidewalls of each of the gates, and a plug formed over the dummy active area and in contact with the spacer. The substrate and the plug are coupled to a ground unit, and the gate is coupled to a pad unit. That is, the pin capacitor includes a first capacitor including the gate, the isolation layer, and the substrate and a second capacitor including the gate, the spacer, and the plug, which are coupled in parallel to each other.
US08659062B2 Method of manufacturing a ferroelectric capacitor and a ferroelectric capacitor
A lower electrode film is formed above a substrate. A ferroelectric film is formed above the lower electrode film. An amorphous intermediate film of a perovskite-type conductive oxide is formed above the ferroelectric film. A first upper electrode film comprising oxide of at least one metal selected from a group of Pt, Pd, Rh, Ir, Ru, and Os is formed on the intermediate film. The intermediate film is crystallized by carrying out a first heat treatment in an atmosphere containing an oxidizing gas after the formation of the first upper electrode film. After the first heat treatment, a second upper electrode film comprising oxide of at least one metal selected from a group of Pt, Pd, Rh, Ir, Ru, and Os is formed on the first upper electrode film, at a temperature lower than the growth temperature for the first upper electrode film.
US08659061B2 Solid-state image capturing element
In one embodiment, a solid-state image capturing element of an embodiment has: a semiconductor substrate; a photodiode formed on the semiconductor substrate; a capacitor formed on the semiconductor substrate and including a first electrode layer, an insulating layer, and a second electrode layer which are stacked in sequence; a transistor formed on the semiconductor substrate and including a floating gate and a control gate; and a first electrode portion electrically connecting the second electrode layer and an n-type diffusion layer or a p-type diffusion layer constituting the photodiode. Further, the first electrode layer of the capacitor is constituted by the floating gate of the transistor, and the second electrode layer of the capacitor and the control gate of the transistor are discontinuous.
US08659055B2 Semiconductor device, field-effect transistor, and electronic device
Provided is a semiconductor device capable of suppressing an occurrence of a punch-through phenomenon.A semiconductor device includes a substrate 1, a first n-type semiconductor layer 2, a p-type semiconductor layer 3, a second n-type semiconductor layer 4, a drain electrode 13, a source electrode 11, a gate electrode 12, and a gate insulation film 21, wherein the first n-type semiconductor layer 2, the p-type semiconductor layer 3, and the second n-type semiconductor layer 4 are laminated on the substrate 1 in this order. The drain electrode 13 is in ohmic-contact with the first n-type semiconductor layer 2. The source electrode 11 is in ohmic-contact with the second n-type semiconductor layer 4. An opening portion to be filled or a notched portion that extends from an upper surface of the second n-type semiconductor layer 4 to an upper part of the first n-type semiconductor layer 2 is formed at a part of the p-type semiconductor layer 3 and a part of the second n-type semiconductor layer 4. The gate electrode 12 is in contact with an upper surface of the first n-type semiconductor layer 2, side surfaces of the p-type semiconductor layer 3, and side surfaces of the second n-type semiconductor layer 4 at inner surfaces of the opening portion to be filled or a surface of the notched portion via the gate insulation film 21. The p-type semiconductor layer 3 has a positive polarization charge at a first n-type semiconductor layer 2 side in a state where a voltage is applied to none of the electrodes.
US08659054B2 Method and structure for pFET junction profile with SiGe channel
A semiconductor structure including a p-channel field effect transistor (pFET) device located on a surface of a silicon germanium (SiGe) channel is provided in which the junction profile of the source region and the drain region is abrupt. The abrupt source/drain junctions for pFET devices are provided in this disclosure by forming an N- or C-doped Si layer directly beneath a SiGe channel layer which is located above a Si substrate. A structure is thus provided in which the N- or C-doped Si layer (sandwiched between the SiGe channel layer and the Si substrate) has approximately the same diffusion rate for a p-type dopant as the overlying SiGe channel layer. Since the N- or C-doped Si layer and the overlying SiGe channel layer have substantially the same diffusivity for a p-type dopant and because the N- or C-doped Si layer retards diffusion of the p-type dopant into the underlying Si substrate, abrupt source/drain junctions can be formed.
US08659053B2 Semiconductor light detecting element
A semiconductor light detecting element includes: an InP substrate; and a semiconductor stacked structure on the InP substrate and including at least a light absorbing layer, wherein the light absorbing layer includes an InGaAsBi layer lattice-matched to the InP substrate.
US08659051B2 Semiconductor light emitting device and method for manufacturing thereof
Provided is a semiconductor light emitting device. The semiconductor light emitting device includes a light emitting structure disposed under an insulating layer having a plurality of holes. A first electrode is disposed on the insulating layer and a second electrode disposed is disposed under the light emitting structure. A conductive supporting member is disposed under the second electrode. The plurality of contact protrusions are disposed in the holes of the insulating layer and include filler connected to the first conductive semiconductor layer and disposed in the plurality of holes. The conductive supporting member physically contacts with the second electrode and has a thickness thicker than that of the insulating layer. The first electrode is located at a higher position than an entire region of the insulating layer and the insulating layer is located at a higher position than an entire region of the light emitting structure.
US08659049B2 Light emitting diode packaging structure
The present invention discloses an LED packaging structure, which comprises a metal housing having a cavity and two open ends, a sintered two-phase-flow heat transfer device having a flat top mounting plane, a lens disposed in the first open end, at least one LED chip mounted in the cavity of the metal housing and on the mounting plane of the two-phase-flow heat transfer device; the LED chip is connected with an electrical connection device, and wherein the sintered two-phase-flow, electrical connection device and LED chip are fixed together through a fixing base. Using a sintered two-phase-flow heat transfer device for heat dissipation, the heat generated by the LED could be expelled in time for dealing with long-term continual work, and thus the LED chip could have a longer service life. In addition, the lens used in the present invention could improve the luminescent efficiency.
US08659048B2 Organic light emitting device
An organic light emitting device includes a first electrode formed over a substrate, an intermediate layer that is formed over the first electrode and includes an organic light emitting layer, and a second electrode that includes a central electrode unit disposed in a central region and a peripheral electrode unit separated from the central electrode unit and disposed in a peripheral region. The intermediate layer is disposed between the first and second electrodes. The organic light emitting device can readily secure a uniform brightness characteristic.
US08659045B2 Light emitting device and methods for forming the same
The present invention provides a light emitting device, which includes a transparent substrate, an epitaxial stack structure having a first portion and a second portion on the transparent substrate, a II/V group compound contact layer on the first portion of the epitaxial stack structure, a nitride-crystallized layer on the II/V group compound contact layer, a transparent conductive layer covering the nitride-crystallized layer, a first electrode on a portion of the transparent conductive layer, and a second electrode on the second portion of the epitaxial stack structure and structurally separated from the structure on the first portion of the epitaxial stack structure. The nitride-crystallized layer may help increase the external quantum efficiency of the light emitting device, thereby the light emitting efficiency of the light emitting device may also be improved.
US08659044B2 Light emitting device
A light emitting device includes an active layer; at least a portion of the active layer constitutes a gain region. The gain region is continuous from a first end surface and a second end surface. The gain region includes a first portion extending from the first end surface to a first reflective surface in a direction tilted with respect to a normal to the first side surface as viewed two-dimensionally; a second portion extending from the second end surface to the second reflective surface in a direction tilted with respect to a normal to the first side surface as viewed two-dimensionally; and a third portion extending from the first reflective surface to the second reflective surface in a direction tilted with respect to a normal to the first reflective surface as viewed two-dimensionally.
US08659043B1 Engineered-phosphor LED packages and related methods
In accordance with certain embodiments, regions of spatially varying wavelength-conversion particle concentration are formed over light-emitting dies.
US08659042B2 Integrated reflector and thermal spreader and thermal spray fabrication method
A low-cost integrated reflector and heat spreader for high-density high power solid-state (e.g., LED) lighting arrays includes a base structure onto which is applied a sacrificial material. A relatively thick thermal spray coating is applied over the base structure and sacrificial material. The sacrificial material is removed. A channel(s) is thereby provided within the thermal spray coating layer and in physical contact with the base structure. The channel may be filled with a cooling fluid. A pulsating heat pipe heat spreader may thereby be provided. A reflective material may be provided either over another surface of the base structure or alternatively over the thermal spray coating layer to provide a surface for reflecting and directing light emitted from a solid state light source that may be secured to the integrated reflector and heat spreader.
US08659040B2 Semiconductor light-emitting device and process for production thereof
One aspect of the present invention provides a semiconductor light-emitting device improved in luminance, and also provides a process for production thereof. The process comprises a procedure of forming a relief structure on the light-extraction surface of the device by use of a self-assembled film. In that procedure, the light-extraction surface is partly covered with a protective film so as to protect an area for an electrode to be formed therein. The electrode is then finally formed there after the procedure. The process thus reduces the area incapable, due to thickness of the electrode, of being provided with the relief structure. Between the electrode and the light-extraction surface, a contact layer is formed so as to establish ohmic contact between them.
US08659037B2 Nanostructure optoelectronic device with independently controllable junctions
Nanostructure array optoelectronic devices are disclosed. The optoelectronic device may have one or more intermediate electrical contacts that are physically and electrically connected to sidewalls of the array of nanostructures. The contacts may allow different photo-active regions of the optoelectronic device to be independently controlled. For example, one color light may be emitted or detected independently of another using the same group of one or more nanostructures. The optoelectronic device may be a pixilated device that may serve as an LED display or imaging sensor. The pixilated device may have an array of nanostructures with alternating rows and columns of sidewall electrical contacts at different layers. A pixel may be formed at the intersection of a row contact and a column contact. As one example, a single group of one or more nanostructures has a blue sub-pixel, a green sub-pixel, and a red sub-pixel.
US08659036B2 Fine tuning of emission spectra by combination of multiple emitter spectra
A first device is provided. The first device includes an anode, a cathode and an emissive layer disposed between the anode and the cathode. The emissive layer includes a first organic emitting material having a first peak wavelength and a second organic emitting material having a second peak wavelength. The emissive layer has a homogenous composition. The second peak wavelength is between 0 and 40 nm greater than the first peak wavelength.
US08659034B2 Solid state white light emitter and display using same
A light emitting assembly comprising a solid state device coupleable with a power supply constructed and arranged to power the solid state device to emit from the solid state device a first, relatively shorter wavelength radiation, and a down-converting luminophoric medium arranged in receiving relationship to said first, relatively shorter wavelength radiation, and which in exposure to said first, relatively shorter wavelength radiation, is excited to responsively emit second, relatively longer wavelength radiation. In a specific embodiment, monochromatic blue or UV light output from a light-emitting diode is down-converted to white light by packaging the diode with fluorescent organic and/or inorganic fluorescers and phosphors in a polymeric matrix.
US08659033B2 Light-emitting diode with textured substrate
A light-emitting diode (LED) device is provided. The LED device has raised semiconductor regions formed on a substrate. LED structures are formed over the raised semiconductor regions such that bottom contact layers and active layers of the LED device are conformal layers. The top contact layer has a planar surface. In an embodiment, the top contact layers are continuous over a plurality of the raised semiconductor regions while the bottom contact layers and the active layers are discontinuous between adjacent raised semiconductor regions.
US08659032B2 FinFET and method of fabricating the same
The disclosure relates to a fin field effect transistor (FinFET). An exemplary structure for a FinFET comprises a substrate comprising a major surface; a first fin and a second fin extending upward from the substrate major surface to a first height; an insulation layer comprising a top surface extending upward from the substrate major surface to a second height less than the first height, whereby portions of the fins extend beyond the top surface of the insulation layer; each fin covered by a bulbous epitaxial layer defining an hourglass shaped cavity between adjacent fins, the cavity comprising upper and lower portions, wherein the epitaxial layer bordering the lower portion of the cavity is converted to silicide.
US08659028B2 Three-dimensional memory device incorporating segmented array line memory array
A three-dimensional (3D) high density memory array includes multiple layers of segmented bit lines (i.e., sense lines) with segment switch devices within the memory array that connect the segments to global bit lines. The segment switch devices reside on one or more layers of the integrated circuit, preferably residing on each bit line layer. The global bit lines reside preferably on one layer below the memory array, but may reside on more than one layer. The bit line segments preferably share vertical connections to an associated global bit line. In certain EEPROM embodiments, the array includes multiple layers of segmented bit lines with segment connection switches on multiple layers and shared vertical connections to a global bit line layer. Such memory arrays may be realized with much less write-disturb effects for half selected memory cells, and may be realized with a much smaller block of cells to be erased.
US08659026B2 Flat panel display
A high-speed flat panel display has thin film transistors in a pixel array portion in which a plurality of pixels are arranged and a driving circuit portion for driving the pixels of the pixel array portion, which have different resistance values than each other or have different geometric structures than each other. The flat panel display comprises a pixel array portion where a plurality of pixels are arranged, and a driving circuit portion for driving the pixels of the pixel array portion. The thin film transistors in the pixel array portion and the driving circuit portion have different resistance values in their gate regions or drain regions than each other, or have different geometric structures than each other. One thin film transistor has a zigzag shape in its gate region or drain region or has an offset region.
US08659025B2 Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing same
A semiconductor device with high reliability and operation performance is manufactured without increasing the number of manufacture steps. A gate electrode has a laminate structure. A TFT having a low concentration impurity region that overlaps the gate electrode or a TFT having a low concentration impurity region that does not overlap the gate electrode is chosen for a circuit in accordance with the function of the circuit.
US08659023B2 Monocrystalline substrate including lattice matching atoms in a near surface region and a monocrystalline layer disposed on the substrate
A monocrystalline layer having a first lattice constant on a monocrystalline substrate having a second lattice constant at least in a near-surface region, wherein the second lattice constant is different from the first lattice constant. Lattice matching atoms are implanted into the near-surface region. The near-surface region is momentarily melted. A layer is epitaxially deposited on the near-surface region that has solidified in monocrystalline fashion.
US08659017B2 Array substrate and method of fabricating the same
A method of fabricating an array substrate and a display device including the array substrate are discussed. According to an embodiment, the array substrate includes a gate electrode formed on a substrate; a gate insulating layer formed on the gate electrode; an oxide semiconductor layer and an etch prevention layer formed on the gate insulating layer, wherein ends of the oxide semiconductor layer and ends of the etch prevention layer are aligned with each other; source and drain electrodes formed on the etch prevention layer; a passivation layer including a contact hole formed on the source and drain electrodes and on the gate insulating layer; and a pixel electrode formed on the passivation layer and through the contact hole.
US08659016B2 Thin film transistor, method of manufacturing the same and flat panel display device having the same
A thin film transistor (TFT) using an oxide semiconductor as an active layer, a method of manufacturing the TFT, and a flat panel display device having the TFT include source and drain electrodes formed on a substrate; an active layer formed of an oxide semiconductor disposed on the source and drain electrodes; a gate electrode; and an interfacial stability layer formed on at least one of top and bottom surfaces of the active layer. In the TFT, the interfacial stability layer is formed of an oxide having a band gap of 3.0 to 8.0 eV. Since the interfacial stability layer has the same characteristics as a gate insulating layer and a passivation layer, chemically high interface stability is maintained. Since the interfacial stability layer has a band gap equal to or greater than that of the active layer, charge trapping is physically prevented.
US08659011B2 Light-emitting element, light-emitting device, and manufacturing method of light-emitting element
Provided is a highly reliable light-emitting element in which damage to an EL layer is reduced even when an auxiliary electrode for an upper electrode is provided. Further, a highly reliable light-emitting device in which luminance unevenness is suppressed is provided. The light-emitting element includes a first electrode; an insulating layer over the first electrode; an auxiliary electrode having a projection and a depression on a surface, over the insulating layer; a layer containing a light-emitting organic compound over the first electrode and the auxiliary electrode; and a second electrode over the layer containing the light-emitting organic compound. At least part of the auxiliary electrode is electrically connected to the second electrode.
US08659007B2 Coherent quantum information transfer between conventional qubits
Computing bus devices that enable quantum information to be coherently transferred between conventional qubit pairs are disclosed. A concrete realization of such a quantum bus acting between conventional semiconductor double quantum dot qubits is described. The disclosed device measures the joint (fermion) parity of the two qubits by using the Aharonov-Casher effect in conjunction with an ancillary superconducting flux qubit that facilitates the measurement. Such a parity measurement, together with the ability to apply Hadamard gates to the two cubits, allows for the production of states in which the qubits are maximally entangled, and for teleporting quantum states between the quantum systems.
US08659005B2 Staggered composition quantum well method and device
A light emitting device comprising a staggered composition quantum well (QW) has a step-function-like profile in the QW, which provides higher radiative efficiency and optical gain by providing improved electron-hole wavefunction overlap. The staggered QW includes adjacent layers having distinctly different compositions. The staggered QW has adjacent layers Xn wherein X is a quantum well component and in one quantum well layer n is a material composition selected for emission at a first target light regime, and in at least one other quantum well layer n is a distinctly different composition for emission at a different target light regime. X may be an In-content layer and the multiple Xn-containing a step function In-content profile.
US08659002B2 Phase change memory elements using energy conversion layers, memory arrays and systems including same, and methods of making and using same
A phase change memory element and method of forming the same. The memory element includes a phase change material layer electrically coupled to first and second conductive material layers. A energy conversion layer is formed in association with the phase change material layer, and electrically coupled to a third conductive material layer. An electrically isolating material layer is formed between the phase change material layer and the energy conversion layer.
US08658999B2 Semiconductor device
According to an embodiment, a semiconductor device includes first and second memristors. The first memristor includes a first electrode made of a first material, a second electrode made of a second material, and a first resistive switching film arranged between the first and second electrodes. The first resistive switching film is connected to both the first and second electrodes. The second memristor includes a third electrode made of a third material, a fourth electrode made of the second material, and a second resistive switching film arranged between the third and fourth electrodes. The second resistive switching film is connected to both the third and fourth electrodes. The work function of the first material is smaller than that of the second material. The work function of the third material is larger than that of the second material.
US08658996B2 Computed radiography scanner and envelope for imaging plates
A scanner for processing intra-oral flexible information carrier plate exposed to X-rays and an envelope for the plate. The scanner comprises housing with an opening for entering an enveloped plate. The envelope is provided with a protrusion and the opening of the scanner is provided with a shoulder. When the enveloped plate is entered in the opening the protrusion abuts the shoulder such that the plate is allowed to exit from the envelope and pass inside the housing while the envelope is retained outside the housing.
US08658994B2 Apparatus and method for controlled particle beam manufacturing
A chamber for exposing a workpiece to charged particles includes a charged particle source for generating a stream of charged particles, a collimator configured to collimate and direct the stream of charged particles from the charged particle source along an axis, a beam digitizer downstream of the collimator configured to create a digital beam including groups of at least one charged particle by adjusting longitudinal spacing between the charged particles along the axis, a deflector downstream of the beam digitizer including a series of deflection stages disposed longitudinally along the axis to deflect the digital beams, and a workpiece stage downstream of the deflector configured to hold the workpiece.
US08658993B2 Self-powered lithography method and apparatus using radioactive thin films
A self-powered ‘near field’ lithographic system 100 includes three primary components, namely, a thin film or emitter substrate 110 including a radioactive material (e.g., a radioisotope 112), a target substrate 120 which carries an energy-modifiable layer 122 (e.g., photo-resist) and a stencil (e.g., 130) that is either positioned between the emitter and target substrates fabricated upon and defined in the emitter substrate. The stencil is made from a material capable of blocking particles emitted through radioactive decay from the radioisotope of the emitter substrate. The stencil includes openings or vias 132 patterned to permit selective transmission of the particles emitted through radioactive decay from the radioisotope of the emitter substrate 110, and the stencil is preferably placed up against (or very close to) the target substrate 120.
US08658992B2 Methods and apparatus for the planning and delivery of radiation treatments
Methods and apparatus are provided for planning and delivering radiation treatments by modalities which involve moving a radiation source along a trajectory relative to a subject while delivering radiation to the subject. In some embodiments the radiation source is moved continuously along the trajectory while in some embodiments the radiation source is moved intermittently. Some embodiments involve the optimization of the radiation delivery plan to meet various optimization goals while meeting a number of constraints. For each of a number of control points along a trajectory, a radiation delivery plan may comprise: a set of motion axes parameters, a set of beam shape parameters and a beam intensity.
US08658990B2 Radiation dosimeters for quantifying the dose of radiation applied during radiation therapy
Radiation dosimeters containing thin KCl:Eu2+ storage phosphors for quantifying and/or verifying the dose of radiation applied during radiation therapy. Methods for measuring the amount of radiation applied from a source of radiation and methods for treating a patient having a cancerous tumor are also provided.
US08658981B2 Methods and systems for image detection
A method is provided for image detection. The method includes measuring a temperature of an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter of an imaging system during an imaging scan of an object, and correcting a gain of the A/D converter based on the measured temperature of the A/D converter.
US08658980B2 Radiation detector
A radiation detector is provided that allows correction so as to identify incident gamma-ray positions accurately with no influence of afterglow of fluorescence. The radiation detector includes an intensity-data acquiring section for acquiring intensity data representing intensity of fluorescence outputted from a light detector for every temporally-constant sampling interval, and a correction-value acquiring section section for acquiring a correction value used for correction of variations in intensity data resulting from afterglow of the fluorescence. In addition, the radiation detector includes an integrating section for correcting the intensity data using the correction value. This allows correct calculation of the integrated value m with no influence of the afterglow of fluorescence.
US08658979B2 Nuclear image reconstruction
A system is provided for obtaining a nuclear image of a moving object. The system comprises an input (14), a processing unit (15) and an output (17). The input (14) is provided for receiving a nuclear image and morphological images of the object. The processing unit (15) is configured to process the morphological images to obtain sparse motion information of the object, to use the sparse motion information and a motion model for obtaining estimated motion information about the object, and to generate a motion-corrected nuclear image based on the estimated motion information and the acquired nuclear image. The output (17) provides the corrected nuclear image.
US08658974B2 Environmental cell for a particle-optical apparatus
The invention relates to an environmental cell for use in e.g. an electron microscope. The environmental cell shows an aperture (15) for passing the beam produced by the electron microscope to a sample (6) placed inside the environmental cell. The environmental cell according to the invention is characterized in that a part of the environmental cell (14) is transparent to secondary radiation such as back-scattered electrons or X-rays. This enables the detection of this radiation by a detector placed outside the environmental cell and thus a much simpler construction of the cell.
US08658972B2 Ion mobility tube
An ion mobility tube comprises an ionization source chamber having a center ionization source chamber hole, an ion door, a mobility region unit having a center mobility tube chamber, a constraining grid, and a Faraday disk, and the ionization source chamber, the ion door, the mobility region unit, the constraining grid, and the Faraday disk are laminated together in sequence in a front-rear direction, wherein the mobility region unit comprises a first insulator and first metal electrode sheets concentrically fixed to a front surface and a back surface of the first insulator respectively. The mobility region unit comprises the first insulator and the first metal electrode sheets which are integral. Therefore, the ion mobility tube is advantageous in simplified manufacturing, and convenient for detachment and assembly.
US08658969B2 Mass spectrometer
One virtual rod electrode (11) is composed by arraying a plurality of plate electrodes (111, . . . , 118) along an ion beam axis, and a quadrupole ion optical element (1) is constructed by arranging four virtual rod electrodes (11, 12, 13 and 14) around an ion beam axis C. A voltage-applying unit alternately applies two radio-frequency voltages having a phase difference of 180 degrees for each of the plate electrodes in one virtual rod electrode. By this voltage application, the quadrupole component of the radio-frequency electric field created within a space surrounded by the four virtual rod electrodes is decreased, while higher-order multipole components are increased. The quadrupole component yields high ion convergence and mass selectivity, while the higher-order components provide high ion transmission efficiency and ion acceptance. The general ion transport efficiency can be improved by appropriately adjusting the ion optical characteristics according to the installation environment of the ion optical system and the conditions before and after the ion optical system.
US08658964B2 Photoelectric encoder with optical grating
A photoelectric encoder in which light emitted from a light source is modulated by an optical grating and the modulated light is detected by a light receiving element, includes a one-side telecentric optical system which forms an image of the light modulated by the optical grating. The imaging optical system has an aperture through which part of the light modulated by the optical grating is allowed to transmit, the aperture having a size which is required when a cutoff spatial frequency that is a spatial frequency indicating a resolution limit of the imaging optical system due to the light emitted from the light source has a value between a fundamental spatial frequency of the optical grating obtained by a Fourier transformation and a second harmonic of the fundamental spatial frequency.
US08658957B2 Sensor circuit and display apparatus
A sensor circuit or a display apparatus from which a highly accurate sensor output can be obtained includes a photodiode, a capacitor that is connected to the photodiode via an accumulation node and accumulates charges according to an electric current in the photodiode; a sensor switching element transistor that causes the accumulation node and an output line to be conductive with respect to each other in response to a readout signal and outputs an output signal according to the potential of the accumulation node to the output line; a variable capacitor that is provided between the accumulation node and an input electrode, and whose capacitance varies when a pressure is applied by a touching operation; and a control switching element transistor to which a control signal for switching conduction and non-conduction between the variable capacitor and the accumulation node is input.
US08658952B2 Vented susceptor structure
A microwave heating construct comprises a first panel and a second panel, each comprising a microwave energy interactive material. The panels are partially joined to one another in an opposed, facing relationship such that an unjoined area is defined between the first panel and the second panel. The unjoined area is in communication with an open peripheral edge of the construct. The first panel includes an aperture in communication with the unjoined area between the first panel and the second panel.
US08658950B2 Heating device capable of eliminating noise and adjusting desired heat quality or heating temperature by controlling frequency difference between two induction coils during a first time interval and disabling one of two induction coils during a second time interval
A heating device includes a first induction coil, a second induction coil, a control panel, a power supply unit and a controlling unit. The control panel issues an adjusting signal. The power supply unit provides a first power and a second power to the first induction coil and the second induction coil, respectively. The controlling unit generates a control signal to the power supply unit according to the adjusting signal, thereby controlling the first power and the second power. Electrical energy is transmitted to the first induction coil and the second induction coil and the frequency difference between the first power and the second power is greater than 15 kHz or smaller than 1 kHz during a first time interval under control of the controlling unit. No electrical energy is transmitted to one of the first induction coil and the second induction coil during a second time interval under control of the controlling unit.
US08658949B2 Adaptable layered heater system
A layered heater is provided that comprises at least one resistive layer defining a circuit configuration, the circuit configuration comprising at least one resistive trace oriented relative to a heating target and comprising a material having temperature coefficient characteristics such that the resistive trace provides power commensurate with demands of the heating target In one form, resistive traces of the resistive layer are an NTC material having a relatively high BETA coefficient and are oriented approximately parallel to a primary heating direction.
US08658944B2 Apparatus and method for melting ice, snow or the like in connection with a furnace
An apparatus for preventing the accumulation of snow, ice, frost, hail or the like from obstructing the flow of primary air, air or the exhaust into or out of a high-efficiency sealed combustion condensing furnace is provided. The apparatus is also suitable to prevent leaves, animals or other debris from becoming trapped within the air flow pipes of the furnace. The apparatus has a screen which may be electrically connected to a heating device. The apparatus may further be attached to a thermostat to automatically turn the heating device on or off at preset temperatures. The apparatus may be incorporated into new pipes or may be attached onto existing pipes.
US08658942B2 Method and system of welding with auto-determined startup parameters
A method and system to determine optimum operating parameters for the startup phase of a welding-type process based on user-desired operating parameters of the post-startup or welding phase of the welding-type process are disclosed. While applicable to a number of welding-type processes, the method and system are particularly configured to determine an optimum wire feed speed for Gas Metal Arc Welding of aluminum using pulse spray transfer.
US08658937B2 Method and apparatus for processing substrate edges
A method and apparatus for processing substrate edges is disclosed that overcomes the limitations of conventional edge processing methods and systems used in semiconductor manufacturing. The edge processing method and apparatus of this invention includes a laser and optical system to direct a beam of radiation onto a rotating substrate supported by a chuck, in atmosphere. The optical system accurately and precisely directs the beam to remove or transform organic or inorganic films, film stacks, residues, or particles from the top edge, top bevel, apex, bottom bevel, and bottom edge of the substrate. An optional gas injector system directs gas onto the substrate edge to aid in the reaction. Process by-products are removed via an exhaust tube enveloping the reaction site. This invention permits precise control of an edge exclusion zone, resulting in an increase in the number of usable die on a wafer. Wafer edge processing with this invention replaces existing solvent and/or abrasive methods and thus will improve die yield.
US08658935B2 Welding process with jerk compensation
An improved welding head for creating an in-track weld between a first rail segment and a second rail segment includes a controller having computer-readable instructions read by the controller. The computer-readable instructions include instructions for compensating for rail jerk during in-track welding. The welding head includes a closing force actuator, such as a hydraulic cylinder, for moving the rail segments toward one another. A pressure transducer is monitored during welding to determine a closing force. An impending jerk of the rail movement is detected if an abnormal closing force change is observed, and in response the flow of hydraulic fluid into or out of the hydraulic cylinder is restricted to prevent or minimize the jerk. In addition, when an impending jerk is detected the weld current may be temporarily increased to burn or prevent the formation of short circuit paths between the rails.
US08658929B2 Switch
A switch according to various embodiments of the disclosure comprises a mechanical actuator configured to control a function associated with the switch and a face coupled to the actuator. The face is configured to depress in response to a force applied to at least a portion of the face, whereby depression of the face engages the actuator to control the function associated with the switch. The face includes a plurality of segments, each segment for controlling a respective additional function associated with the switch. A respective capacitive touch sensor is coupled to each respective segment of the plurality of segments, wherein each capacitive touch sensor is configured to control the function associated with its respective segment in response to detecting human skin in contact with the segment.
US08658920B2 Switch module system
A switch module system includes switch modules. Each switch module has a housing, a keypad with switch domes, and an actuator for the switch domes. The housing of each switch module includes a housing chassis and a housing cover. The switch modules are attached to a substrate with contact areas of the substrate being electrically connectable through the switch domes of the keypads of the switch modules. For each switch module a respective section of the substrate is inserted into the housing chassis of the switch module and the respective section of the substrate is attached by the housing cover of the switch module to the housing chassis of the switch module.
US08658919B2 Multi-touch panel including equipotential line distortion corrector
A multi-touch panel includes a first substrate for receiving coordinate input, a second substrate provided to face the first substrate, a first conductive film formed on the first substrate; and a second conductive film formed on the second substrate. At least one of the first conductive film and the second conductive film is divided into a plurality of strip regions to configure a plurality of strip electrodes. At least one end of each of the strip electrodes has a narrowed width portion, and the strip electrodes have widths different from one another at the narrowed width portion in accordance with lengths of the drawing wires that are connected to the ends provided with the narrowed width portions.
US08658918B1 Power generation using a heat transfer device and closed loop working fluid
A fast heat transfer device is provided. The device dissipates heat and generates power at the same time. A liquid flow is used to absorb heat for forming a vapor gas flow; then, the gas flow drives a blade turbine and a power generator; and, finally, the gas flow is cooled down to become the original liquid flow for recycling. Thus, the present invention dissipates heat and generates power simultaneously with a minimized size and a reduced cost together with energy conservation.
US08658914B2 Electronic component device and method for manufacturing the same
An electronic component device having a first sealing frame formed on a main substrate and a second sealing frame formed on a cover substrate, both of which are composed of a Ni film. A bonding section bonds the first sealing frame to the second sealing frame. For example, a Bi layer is formed on the first sealing frame and an Au layer is formed on the second sealing frame, and then the first sealing frame and the second sealing frame are heated at a temperature of 300° C. for 10 seconds while applying pressure in the direction in which the first sealing frame and the second sealing frame are close contact with each other to form the bonding section. The bonding section is constituted by a mixed layer predominantly composed of a mixed alloy of a Ni—Bi—Au ternary alloy and Au2Bi.
US08658912B2 Cable management apparatus
A cable management apparatus includes a securing board and a cable management tray. The securing board has a securing arm extending upward from the securing board. The cable management tray is hung on the securing arm and includes a base and a door rotatably secured to the base. A hook is substantially perpendicular to the base, and a clasping hole is defined in the door. The door is rotatable relative to the base between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the hook is engaged in the clasping hole, the base and the door together define a space, and a cable is received in the space in a direction substantially parallel to the base. In the second position, the hook is removed from the clasping hole, to disengage the cable from the space.
US08658907B2 Conductive film and method for producing the same
A conductive film has a transparent support, a first conductive silver image disposed on one main surface of the transparent support, and a second conductive silver image disposed on the other main surface of the transparent support. The first and second conductive silver images are obtained by forming at least one silver halide emulsion layer on each of the surfaces of the transparent support and then exposing and developing the silver halide emulsion layer. The first silver image and the second silver image each contain a net-like structure in a region required to be transparent. The net-like structure comprises thin metal wires having a line width of 10 μm or less, and forms a conductive layer having a sheet resistance of 50 ohm/sq or less.
US08658905B2 Multilayer wiring substrate
In a wiring laminate portion of a multilayer wiring substrate, a solder resist layer having a plurality of openings is disposed on a main surface side of the laminate structure, and connection terminals are embedded in an outermost resin insulation layer in contact with the solder resist layer. Each of the connection terminals comprises a copper layer and a metallic layer formed of at least one type of metal other than copper. A main-surface-side circumferential portion of the copper layer is covered by the solder resist layer. At least a portion of the metallic layer is located in a recess in a main-surface-side central portion of the copper layer. At least a portion of the metallic layer is exposed via a corresponding opening.
US08658890B2 Solar cell and method of manufacturing solar cell
A solar cell which can increase its open-circuit voltage, short-circuit current, and fill factor (F.F.), thereby enhancing its conversion efficiency is provided. The solar cell of the present invention comprises a p-type semiconductor layer and an n-type semiconductor layer, formed on the p-type semiconductor layer, containing a compound expressed by the following chemical formula (1): ZnO1-x-ySxSey  (1) where x≧0, y>0, and 0.2
US08658889B2 Quantum dot thin film solar cell
A quantum dot thin film solar cell is provided, which at least includes a first electrode layer, an optical active layer, and a second electrode layer sequentially deposited on a substrate. A plurality of quantum dots is formed in the optical active layer. Since the plurality of quantum dots and the optical active layer are formed through co-sputtering, an interface adhesion between the plurality of quantum dots and the optical active layer is good in this quantum dot thin film solar cell.
US08658888B2 Solar energy utilization device and method for manufacturing the same
A solar energy utilization device wherein the surface of the incident light side of the transparent base material 1 is covered by water-and-oil-shedding transparent fine particles 5 being bound and fixed to the surface. A method for manufacturing a solar energy utilization device comprising process A of manufacturing reactive transparent fine particles 9 with the first functional group at one end; process B of manufacturing reactive transparent base material 4 with the second functional group at one end forming a covalent bond with the first functional group; process C of manufacturing transparent base material 10 by reacting the reactive transparent fine particles 9 with the reactive transparent base material 4 for binding and fixing the reactive transparent fine particles 9 to the surface; and process D of forming water-and-oil-shedding coating 16 on the surface of the transparent fine particles 5 being bound and fixed to the surface of the transparent base material 10.
US08658887B2 Substrate provided with transparent conductive film for photoelectric conversion device, method for manufacturing the substrate, and photoelectric conversion device using the substrate
Provided in this invention is a low-cost substrate provided with a transparent conductive film for photoelectric conversion device, which can improve performance of the photoelectric conversion device by enhanced light confinement effect achieved with effectively increased surface unevenness of the substrate. A method for manufacturing said substrate and a photoelectric conversion device using said substrate which can show improved performance are also provided. The substrate provided with the transparent conductive film for the photoelectric conversion device comprises a transparent insulating substrate and a transparent electrode layer containing at least zinc oxide deposited on the transparent insulating substrate, wherein the transparent electrode layer is composed of a double layer structure wherein first and second transparent conductive films are deposited in this order from a substrate side. The transparent conductive film has an average film thickness of 10-500 nm, and the second transparent conductive film has an average film thickness of 300-1,500 nm. The average film thickness of the second transparent conductive film is larger than that of the first transparent conductive film, and an average height difference of the unevenness on the surface of the second transparent conductive film is 10-300 nm, which is larger than that of the first transparent conductive film.
US08658885B2 Substrate for thin-film photoelectric conversion device, thin film photoelectric conversion device including the same, and method for producing substrate for thin-film photoelectric conversion device
Provided is a substrate for a thin-film photoelectric conversion device which makes it possible to produce the device having improved characteristics at low cost and high productivity. The substrate includes a transparent base member, with a transparent underlying layer and a transparent electrode layer successively stacked on one main surface of the transparent base member. The underlying layer includes transparent insulating fine particles and transparent binder, and the particles are dispersed to cover the one main surface with a coverage factor of particles ranging from 30% or more to less than 80%. An antireflection layer is provided on the other main surface of the transparent base. The antireflection layer includes transparent insulating fine particles and transparent binder, and the particles are dispersed to cover the other main surface with a coverage factor greater than the underlying layer. The transparent electrode layer contains zinc oxide deposited by low-pressure CVD method.
US08658880B2 Methods of drawing wire arrays
A method of drawing a glass clad wire is provided herein, the method comprising: (i) sealing off one end of a glass tube such that the tube has an open end and a closed end; (ii) introducing a wire material inside the glass tube; (iii) heating a portion of the glass tube such that the glass partially melts to form a first ampoule containing the wire material to be used in a drawing operation; (iv) introducing the first ampoule containing the wire material into a heating device; (v) increasing the temperature within the heating device such that the glass tube is heated enough for it to be drawn and wire material melts; and (vi) drawing the glass clad wire comprising a continuous wire of wire material, wherein the wire material is a metal, semi-metal, alloy, or semiconductor thermoelectrically active material, and wherein the wire diameter is equal to or smaller than about 5 μm.
US08658879B2 Active bridge for stringed musical instruments
A method of making musical sounds from a musical instrument may include amplifying musical sounds from vibrations of a vibrating element when a musical instrument is played, sensing forces between the musical instrument and the vibrating element and altering the forces applied to the vibrating element in response to the sensed forces to emulate musical sounds produced by a musical instrument having different musical characteristics, for example, to emulate an acoustic guitar. Piezoelectric material or magnetic material may be used to apply forces along one or more than one axis of vibration and may be controlled by a replaceable element and/or in response to user adjustments. The applied forces may be adjusted to control relative phase between the sensed and applied forces to avoid unwanted musical effects, such as unwanted sustained oscillation, in response to a fundamental period of the vibrations or random number generation to change the vibration waveform.
US08658874B2 Plants and seeds of corn variety CV451078
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV451078. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV451078, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV451078 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 CV451078 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 CV451078.
US08658871B2 Plants and seeds of corn variety CV683228
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV683228. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV683228, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV683228 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 CV683228 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 CV683228.
US08658865B1 Soybean variety XBP40010
A novel soybean variety, designated XBP40010 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XBP40010, cells from soybean variety XBP40010, plants of soybean XBP40010, and plant parts of soybean variety XBP40010. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XBP40010 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XBP40010, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XBP40010, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XBP40010. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XBP40010 are further provided.
US08658863B2 White kohlrabi
The invention relates to a kohlrabi plant carrying a genetic trait that leads to petioles, stems and bulb having an extra white color at harvest stage as compared to the petioles, stems and bulb of a kohlrabi plant not carrying the said genetic trait. The extra white color may be a color graded in the white group for example the color 155 A or B or C or NN 155 A or B or C or D and in the greed-green group for example the colors 190 D or 191 D or 192 D or 193 D according to The RHS Color Chart, fifth edition. The plant may be obtainable by crossing a first kohlrabi parent plant with a second kohlrabi parent plant, wherein one of the parents is a plant grown from seeds of which a representative sample was deposited with the NCIMB under deposit accession number NCIMB 41530 or a progeny plant thereof and selecting for plants which have the genetic trait that leads to an extra white color of the petioles, stems and bulb as compared to the petioles, stems and bulb of a plant not carrying the genetic trait.
US08658861B2 Pea cultivar FP2291
A novel pea cultivar designated FP2291 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of pea cultivar FP2291, to the plants of pea cultivar FP2291, and parts thereof, for example pollen, ovule, berry or pod. The invention also relates to methods for producing a pea plant by crossing the cultivar FP2291 with itself or another pea line. The invention further relates to methods for producing a pea plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic plants produced by that method and to methods for producing other pea lines derived from the pea cultivar FP2291.
US08658860B2 Pea cultivar FP2292
A novel pea cultivar designated FP2292 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of pea cultivar FP2292, to the plants of pea cultivar FP2292, and parts thereof, for example pollen, ovule, berry or pod. The invention also relates to methods for producing a pea plant by crossing the cultivar FP2292 with itself or another pea line. The invention further relates to methods for producing a pea plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic plants produced by that method and to methods for producing other pea lines derived from the pea cultivar FP2292.
US08658856B2 Cloning of cytochrome p450 genes from Nicotiana
The present invention relates to p450 enzymes and nucleic acid sequences encoding p450 enzymes in Nicotiana, and methods of using those enzymes and nucleic acid sequences to alter plant phenotypes.
US08658852B2 Disposable absorbent articles with an embossed topsheet
The present disclosure relates to disposable absorbent articles including a topsheet; a backsheet; a liquid acquisition layer; and a substantially cellulose free absorbent core; wherein the liquid acquisition layer and the absorbent core are located between the topsheet and the backsheet; wherein the topsheet and liquid acquisition layer include corresponding discrete indented regions and unindented regions. The liquid acquisition layer comprises a first density, D1, below the unindented regions of the topsheet and comprises a second density, D2, below the discrete indented regions of the topsheet.
US08658848B2 Highly flexible process and apparatus for the simulated counter-current production of para-xylene
A process for the production of para-xylene by simulated counter-current adsorption with high flexibility with respect to a reference run (100%) uses 2 adsorbers each with 12 beds, said adsorbers being able to be connected in accordance with 3 different modes; the flexibility obtained is 50% to 150%.
US08658846B2 Processes for separation of 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene from hydrogen fluoride by azeotropic distillation
Disclosed herein are processes for separation of 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene and hydrogen fluoride using azeotropic distillation. Additionally, disclosed are processes for separating mixtures of 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene, hydrogen fluoride and 1,1,1,2,3-pentafluoropropane (HFC-245eb) and/or 1,1,1,2,2-pentafluoropropane (HFC-245cb) by azeotropic distillation.
US08658844B2 Manganese oxides and their use in the oxidation of alkanes
Catalytic structures are provided comprising octahedral tunnel lattice manganese oxides ion-exchanged with metal cations or mixtures thereof. The structures are useful as catalysts for the oxidation of alkanes and may be prepared by treating layered manganese oxide under highly acidic conditions, optionally drying the treated product, and subjecting it to ion exchange.
US08658841B2 Process for the preparation of alkylene glycol
The invention provides a process for the preparation of an alkylene glycol from an alkene. A gas composition from an alkylene oxide reactor is supplied to an alkylene oxide absorber comprising a column of vertically stacked trays or comprising a packed column. Lean absorbent comprising at least 20 wt % water is supplied to the alkylene oxide absorber and is contacted with the gas composition in the presence of one or more catalysts that promote carboxylation and hydrolysis. At least 50% of the alkylene oxide entering the alkylene oxide absorber is converted in the alkylene oxide absorber. Fat absorbent is withdrawn from the absorber, is optionally supplied to finishing reactors and/or a flash vessel or light ends stripper, and is subsequently subjected to dehydration and purification to provide a purified alkylene glycol product stream.
US08658838B2 Series of skin whitening (lightening) compounds
The present invention is directed to inhibitors of tyrosinase, pharmaceutical compositions comprising such tyrosinase inhibitors, and methods of making and using the same. Specifically, included in the present invention are compositions of matter comprised of at least one 2,4-dihydroxybenzene analog, which inhibit the activity of tyrosinase and which inhibit the overproduction of melanin.
US08658835B2 Oxidation of hydrocarbons
In a process for oxidizing a hydrocarbon to a corresponding hydroperoxide, alcohol, ketone, carboxylic acid or dicarboxylic acid, the hydrocarbon is contacted with an oxygen-containing gas in the presence of a catalyst comprising a cyclic imide. The contacting produces an effluent comprising an oxidized hydrocarbon product and unreacted imide catalyst and the effluent is treated with at least one solid sorbent to remove at least part of the unreacted imide catalyst and produce a treated effluent comprising said oxidized hydrocarbon product. The organic phase can then be recovered.
US08658832B2 Luminescent metal complexes for organic electronic devices
The present invention relates to auxiliary ligands for luminescent metal complexes, particularly emitter complexes having such auxiliary ligands, and particularly light-emitting devices, and particularly organic light-emitting devices (OLED) having metal complexes, which have the auxiliary ligands according to the invention.
US08658831B2 Method for separating N,N-dialkylbisaminoalkylether from mixtures comprising N,N-dialkylbisaminoalkylbisaminoalkylether and at least one of N,N,N′-trialkylbisaminoalkylether and N,N,N′,N′-tetraalkylbisaminoalkylether
According to the present invention, a method for separating a primary amine being an N,N-dialkylbisaminoalkylether, from mixtures comprising said primary amine and at least one of a secondary amine being an N,N,N′-trialkylbisaminoalkylether and a tertiary amine being an N,N,N′,N′-tetraalkylbisaminoalkylether, comprising the steps: (α) joining said mixture and at least one of a ketone and an aldehyde for reacting said primary amine with said at least one of a ketone and an aldehyde, thereby providing a primary amine based imine by a Schiff base reaction; (β) separating the primary amine based imine from said at least one of the secondary or tertiary amine; and (γ) recovering the primary amine from its primary amine based imine by hydrolysis of the primary amine based imine.
US08658827B2 Method for synthesizing substituted aminocyclohexanone compounds
A method of synthesizing a substituted aminocyclohexanone compound comprising reacting a compound of formula (II) with an organolithium compound to form a compound of formula (III)
US08658824B2 Processes for producing acrylic acids and acrylates
In one embodiment, the invention is to a process for producing an acrylate product. The process comprises the step of providing a crude product stream comprising the acrylate product, an alkylenating agent, and water. The process further comprises the step of contacting at least a portion of the crude product stream or a derivative thereof with an extraction agent mixture to form an extract stream and a raffinate stream. The extract stream comprises acrylate product and extraction agent. The raffinate stream comprises alkylenating agent and water. Preferably, the extraction agent mixture comprises at least two extraction agents.
US08658822B2 Processes for producing acrylic acids and acrylates
In one embodiment, the invention is to a process for producing an acrylate product. The process comprises the step of reacting an alkanoic acid and an alkylenating agent under conditions effective to produce a crude acrylate product. A molar ratio of alkylenating agent to alkanoic acid is maintained at a level of at least 1.
US08658818B2 Methods of producing nitrate esters
Methods of forming a nitrate ester include combining at least one nitrate salt and sulfuric acid to form a nitrating solution and adding an aliphatic polyol to the nitrating solution. Nitrate esters formed by this method may be, for example, triethylene glycol dinitrate (TEGDN), pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN), diglycerol tetranitrate (DGTN), 1,1,1-tris(methylol)ethane trinitrate (TMETN), 1,2,4-butanetriol trinitrate (BTTN), nitroglycerin (NG), diethylene glycol dinitrate (DEGDN), ethylene glycol dinitrate (EGDN), metriol trinitrate (MTN), nitrocellulose (NC), or 1,2-propanediol dinitrate (PDDN).
US08658817B2 Method of making mixed metal oxide catalysts for ammoxidation and/or oxidation of lower alkane hydrocarbons
The present invention comprises a method for preparing a mixed oxide catalyst for use in producing acrylonitrile or methacrylonitrile from propane or isobutane by ammoxidation in a gaseous phase via methods of contacting any one of the antimony compound, the molybdenum compound, and the vanadium compound with hydrogen peroxide prior to combining with source compounds for the remaining elements in the catalyst.
US08658815B2 Method for producing ruthenium complex
The present invention provides a method for inexpensively producing di-μ-chloro-bis[chloro(η6-1-isopropyl-4-methylbenzene)ruthenium (II)] complex used as a catalyst raw material for a hydrogenation or metathesis polymerization reaction at a high yield. In the present invention, the above-described problem can be solved by reacting ruthenium chloride or a hydrate thereof with γ-terpinene in a solvent. In particular, by using an alcohol having a boiling point of 100° C. or higher as a solvent, the yield of the above-described complex can be increased.
US08658814B2 Chemical and method for chelating metal ions included in water and separating/recovering of formed chelate
The present invention relates to a chemical for chelation of metal ions, which are at least bivalent, contained in water and/or water enclosed objects and separation/recovering of formed chelate; the structural formula of which is formula (I) where R in at least one of the positions shown is comprised of a group in the form of a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain having from 9 to 20 carbon atoms, and where appropriate 1-2 hetero atoms, and which is missing in other position(s); and where X in shown positions is in a group in the form of —COOH or its salt; and wherein the chemical can be a racemate, a mixture of enantiomers, or pure enantiomers or where R is missing in all four positions shown X in at least one position is —COOR, —CONHR or —CH2OR or —COR or —CH2OCOR or —CH2OCONHR; and where X in the remaining positions shown is comprised of a group in the form of —COOH or its salt; and wherein the chemical can be a racemate, a mixture of enantiomers, or pure enantiomers.
US08658812B2 Wax dispersions
The disclosed invention provides wax dispersions with an average particle size of 0.5 to 100 μm containing (a) a wax phase with a melting point above 25° C. which contains at least one oil or wax component selected from dialkyl(ene) ethers, dialkyl(ene) carbonates, dicarboxylic acids, hydroxyfatty alcohols, and mixtures thereof and at least one emulsifier, and (b) a water phase. The wax dispersions are particularly useful as a basis for cosmetic preparations and, more particularly, for impregnating and wetting utility and sanitary wipes used for personal hygiene and body care.
US08658810B2 Method for producing purified dialkyl-furan-2,5-dicarboxylate vapor
Disclosed is a process to produce a purified vapor comprising dialkyl-furan-2,5-dicarboxylate (DAFD). Furan-2,5-dicarboxylic acid (FDCA) and an alcohol in an esterification zone to generate a crude diester stream containing dialkyl furan dicarboxylate (DAFD), unreacted alcohol, 5-(alkoxycarbonyl)furan-2-carboxylic acid (ACFC), and alkyl furan-2-carboxylate (AFC). The crude diester stream is fed to a flash evaporation zone to produce a vapor alcohol composition and a first liquid DAFD rich composition. At least a portion of the remaining alcohol can be separated from the first liquid DAFD rich composition to produce a second alcohol vapor and a second liquid DAFD rich composition, followed by separating AFC from the second liquid DAFD rich composition to product an AFC vapor and a partially purified DAFD rich composition, followed by separating a portion of the DAFD from the partially purified DAFD rich composition to produce a purified DAFD vapor.
US08658807B2 Hydrogenation process for the preparation of tetrahydrofuran and alkylated derivatives thereof
A process is provided for the synthesis of tetrahydrofuran and related compounds by hydrogenation of furan and derivatives, using a sponge nickel catalyst that has been promoted with iron and chromium.
US08658806B2 Process for preparing optically active antrocin
The present invention relates to a process of preparation of optically active antrocin. At first, to introduce the correct configuration of trans-decalone, alkyl aluminum/TMSCN was used to react with decalenone. The resulting racemic nitrile-decalone was resolved with chiral diol by ketalization to produce two chromatography separable diasteromers. After a simple column chromatography, optically pure compounds were obtained. Formylation was a critical step for the lactone formation. The rest of the synthesis is straight forward through oxidation and olefination. Accordingly, the total synthesis was completed in 10 steps with 7% overall yield from commercially available 6-methoxy-2-tetralone.
US08658803B2 Amide derivatives of N-urea substituted amino acids as formyl peptide receptor like-1 (FPRL-1) receptor modulators
The present invention relates to novel amide derivatives of N-urea substituted amino acids, processes for preparing them, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use as pharmaceuticals as modulators of the N-formyl peptide receptor like-1 (FPRL-1) receptor.
US08658796B2 Complexes of ruthenium, method of production thereof and use thereof as (pre)catalysts of the metathesis reaction
The present invention provides ruthenium complexes of the formula wherein: X and X′ denote an anionic ligand selected independently from the group consisting of anions of halogens, the phenolate anion (C6H5O−) the perfluorophenolate anion (C6F5O−), and residues of arylcarboxylic, alkylcarboxylic, perfluoroalkylcarboxylic, alkylsulphonic, arylsulphonic, or perfluoroalkylsulphonic acids; A denotes either nitrogen or carbon with an R5 group; R1 denotes hydrogen, C1-C5 alkyl, C2-C5 alkene or C3-C7 cycloalkyl; and R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7 denote independently hydrogen, C1-C25 alkyl, C1-C25 perfluoroalkyl, C5-C24 aryl, C2-C25 alkene, C3-C7 cycloalkyl, nitro (—NO2), cyano (—CN), formyl (—CHO), carboxyl (—COOH), or an ester (—COOR″), sulphone (—SO2R″), sulphonamide (—SO2NR″2), or ketone (—COR″) group, in which R″ is a C1-C5 alkyl, C1-C5 perfluoroalkyl, or C5-C24 aryl group. The invention also provides methods for producing the inventive ruthenium complexes and the use of the complexes for carrying out metathesis reactions.
US08658794B2 8-methyl-1-phenyl-imidazol[1,5-a]pyrazine compounds as Lck inhibitors and uses thereof
The present invention provides 8-methyl-1-phenyl-imidazo[1,5-a]pyrazine derivatives according to formula I or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. The compounds of the current invention show inhibitory activity against Lck and can be used for the treatment of Lck-mediated diseases or Lck-mediated conditions such as inflammatory disorders.
US08658793B2 Process for the preparation of pyrimidine derivatives
A process for the preparation of 5-substituted 4-amino-2-methylpyrimidines of the formula wherein R is CONH2 or CN, and of acid addition salts thereof, characterized in that a compound of formula H2N—CH═C(R) CN (II) is reacted with acetimidic acid methyl ester or an acid addition salt thereof and that, if desired, a compound of formula I is transferred into an acid addition salt, and the transformation of a compound of formula II wherein R is CONH2 into a compound of formula II wherein R is CN by treatment with POCl3.
US08658788B2 Process for the production of 3-oxo-pregn-4-ene-21,17-carbolactones by the metal-free oxidation of 17-(3-hydroxypropyl)-3,17-dihydroxyandrostanes
This invention relates to processes for the production of 3-oxo-pregnane-21,17-carbolactones of formula II as well as 3-oxo-pregn-4-ene-21,17-carbolactones of formula III by the metal-free oxidation of 17-(3-hydroxypropyl)-3,17-dihydroxyandrostanes of formula I In addition, the invention relates to the dichloromethane hemisolvate of 6β,7β;15β,16β-dimethylene-3-oxo-17α-pregnan-5β-ol-21,17-carbolactone (IV) as such as well as to a process for the production of drospirenone.
US08658787B2 Galacto-rhamnogalacturonate compositions for the treatment of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Aspects of the invention provide methods for treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and associated liver fibrosis. In particular, aspects of the invention relate to the use of a therapeutic formulation comprising a galacto-rhamnogalacturonate compound for the treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and associated liver fibrosis.
US08658783B2 Antisense modulation of PTP1B expression
Provided herein are methods, compounds, and compositions for reducing expression of PTP1B mRNA and protein in an animal. Such methods, compounds, and compositions are useful to treat, prevent, delay, or ameliorate metabolic disease, for example, diabetes, or a symptom thereof.
US08658781B2 Primer set, method and kit for detecting pathogen in fish
The invention provides a method for rapidly detecting a pathogen in fish comprising conducting loop-mediated isothermal amplification with a specific primer set and a nucleic acid in a test sample. If at least one amplification is carried out, the test sample comprises the pathogen in fish. The invention also provides a primer set, probe and kit for detecting a pathogen in fish.
US08658778B2 hTMC promoter and vectors for the tumor-selective and high-efficient expression of cancer therapeutic genes
Promoters that include a tissue-selective promoter sequence and a second promoter sequence operatively coupled to the tissue-selective promoter sequence, wherein the second promoter sequence includes a minimal viral promoter sequence, are disclosed. Nucleic acids and compositions that include these promoter sequences are also disclosed. Also disclosed are methods of improving the function of a tissue-selective promoter, involving operatively coupling a tissue-selective promoter sequence with a second promoter sequence that includes a minimal viral promoter sequence. Also disclosed are methods of delivering a gene into a cell, methods of treating a subject with a hyperproliferative disease, and methods of imaging a cell that involve use of the novel promoter sequences set forth herein.
US08658774B2 Meditopes and related meditope-monoclonal antibody delivery systems, synthesis and therapeutic uses thereof
Meditope variants and methods for their use are provided herein. A meditope variant as described herein comprises a peptide having a sequence CQFDLSTRRLKC (SEQ ID NO:1) or CQYNLSSRALKC (SEQ ID NO:2) that has one or more modifications at of least one amino acid residue of the sequence. Multivalent meditope variant tethering entities are also provided. Such entities may include two or more meditopes coupled via a long linker, multivalent scaffold, biotin-streptavidin, or IgG Fc domain. Further, methods of treating, imaging or diagnosing a disease or condition are provided. Such methods may include administering a therapeutically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition to a subject, the pharmaceutical compound comprising an antibody-meditope complex; a multivalent tethering agent in combination with a monoclonal antibody or functional fragment thereof; or a combination thereof.
US08658773B2 Ultrafiltration concentration of allotype selected antibodies for small-volume administration
Disclosed are methods, compositions and uses of high concentration antibody or immunoglobulin formulations for subcutaneous, intramuscular, transdermal or other local (regional) administration, in a volume of than 3, less than 2 or less than 1 ml. Preferably, the formulation contains a high concentration formulation (HCF) buffer comprising phosphate, citrate, polysorbate 80 and mannitol at a pH of about 5.2. The formulation more preferably comprises at least 100, 150, 200, 250 mg/ml or 300 mg/ml of antibody. The methods for preparing the high concentration formulation include ultrafiltration and diafiltration to concentrate the antibody and exchange the medium for HCF buffer. Other embodiments concern use of non-G1m1 (nG1m1) allotype antibodies, such as G1m3 and/or a nG1m1,2 antibodies. The nG1m1 antibodies show decreased immunogenicity compared to G1m1 antibodies.
US08658768B2 Method for enhancing phagocytosis of phosphatidylserine-exposing cells
An Annexin A5 variant, comprising one or more RGD (Arg-Gly-Asp) sequences, is suitable for use in the treatment of a disease in mammals, including humans, wherein augmentation of phagocytosis is a desired effect of treatment. The Annexin A5 variant can e.g. be used in the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases such as atherosclerotic plaque or in the treatment of COPD. At least one RGD sequence may substitute sequences of three amino acids within the range 1-19 or other regions of the amino acid sequences of Annexin A5; alternatively one or more RGD sequences may be part of an extension at the N-terminal side.
US08658765B2 Non-natural MIC proteins
This invention describes soluble, monovalent, non-natural protein molecules that can activate NK cells and certain T-cells to attack specific cellular target cells by attaching the NKG2D-binding portions of monovalent MICA or MICB protein, i.e. their α1-α2 platform domain, to the intended target cell specifically. The α1-α2 domain is contiguous with a heterologous α3 domain that has been genetically modified to bind directly or indirectly to the extracellular aspect of the target cell, thereby serving as the targeting domain. The genetic modification to create a non-natural and non-terminal targeting motif within the α3 domain can include a portion of an antibody, another protein molecule or portion thereof, a peptide, or a non-natural, modified α3 domain of a MIC protein.
US08658764B2 Peptide fragments for inducing synthesis of extracellular matrix proteins
Short biologically active tetrapeptides are disclosed that are comprised of the sequences GxxG and PxxP where G (glycine) and P (proline) are maintained and x is a variable amino acid. The peptides can be used singly or in combination to stimulate production of extracellular matrix proteins in skin. A rapid, low-cost method of producing heterogenous formulations of tetrapeptides is disclosed.
US08658763B2 Amphiphilic peptides and hydrogel matrices thereof for bone repair
The present invention relates to the field of tissue engineering and more specifically to amphiphilic peptides and peptide matrices thereof useful in vitro and in situ biomineralization and inducing bone repair. The present invention provides peptides, which are useful in hydrogels and other pharmaceutical compositions, and methods and kits of use for bone repair and promotion of biomineralization. Certain hydrogels according to the invention comprise cells within or adhered to the peptide matrix.
US08658762B2 Polypeptides that inhibit dopamine D2 receptor-DISC1 interaction and methods of use thereof
The present invention provides compounds, compositions and methods for inhibiting D2R-DISC1 interaction. Specifically, the present invention provides a polypeptide comprising the amino acid sequence KIYIVLRRRRKRVNT (SEQ ID NO: 1) or SEQ ID NO:5, a fragment thereof, or a polypeptide comprising an amino acid sequence that is at least 80% identical to SEQ ID NO: 1 or 5, or a fragment thereof, wherein the polypeptide is not a naturally occurring dopamine receptor. Also provided is a method of identifying an agent that inhibits the interaction of D2R with DISC1, a method of identifying an agent that binds to the polypeptide sequence defined by SEQ ID NO: 1 or 5, and a method of inhibiting D2R interaction with DISC1 in a mammal comprising administering an agent that inhibits the interaction of D2R with DISC1 to the mammal.
US08658760B2 Formulations based on anionically stabilised, aqueous polymer dispersions
Formulations based on anionically stabilized aqueous polymer dispersions, containing polychloroprene, to which carbon dioxide (CO2) has been added, to a process for their preparation, to a device for increasing the carbon dioxide content of formulations based on anionically stabilized aqueous polymer dispersions, and to the use thereof in the production of adhesives, sealants, large-volume parts or coatings.
US08658757B2 Polyamide polymer, method for producing same, resin composition, molded product, fiber, film, and porous film
Provided is a polyamide polymer in which a partial structure represented by the following formula (C) constitutes a portion of the main chain: wherein in Formula (C), RA and RB each independently represent a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms; n and m each independently represent an integer from 0 to 2; Cy represents an unsaturated 6-membered or 7-membered ring which may contain a heteroatom; and * and ** each represent a bonding hand, while * may be a bonding hand extending from RA.
US08658756B2 Caprolactam-based composition, process for manufacturing an impermeable element, and tank
The present invention relates to a composition that can be used to manufacture an impermeable, sealing, tight envelope, to a process for manufacturing an impermeable envelope, and to a tank. The composition of the invention comprises in % by weight relative to the total weight of the composition: from 70 to 90% of a monomer (I); from 0.1 to 1% of an activator (II), in which R is chosen from the group comprising CnH2n+2, n being an integer chosen from 1 to 10; —OH; —OCnH2n+2, n being an integer chosen from 1 to 10; and —NHR′ where R′ is either CnH2n+2, n being an integer chosen from 1 to 10, or an amine functional group; from 2 to 6% of a catalyst (III), in which X is chosen from the group comprising MgBr, MgI, Li and Na; and from 10 to 20% of an additive (IV), with: This composition can be used, for example, to manufacture elements that are impermeable to fluids, for example impermeable envelopes, for example that can be used in the manufacture of type IV tanks or hydraulic accumulators.
US08658749B2 Methods for manufacturing amino acid mimetic copolymers and use of same
Biocompatible polymers are manufactured to include an ammo acid mimetic monomer and one or more hydrophobic acrylate monomers. The amino acid mimetic monomers are selected to mimic the side chain of the amino acids asparagine or glutamine. The amino acid mimetic monomer can be a methacryloyl or acryloyl derivative of 2-hydroxyacetamide, 3-hydroxypropionamide, alaninamide, lactamide, or glycinamide. These amide functional groups offer the advantage of moderate hydrophilicity with little chemical reactivity. The amino acid mimetic monomer can be copolymerized with one or more hydrophobic acrylate monomers to obtain desired coating properties.
US08658744B2 Controlling H2 distribution in a horizontal stirred bed reactor
An olefin polymerization process comprises gas-phase polymerization of at least one olefin monomer in more than one polymerization zones in one or more polymerization reactors using a high activity catalyst injected in the front end of the reactor to give solid polymer particles. According to the process of the invention, different hydrogen to olefin ratios are controlled and applied to the reactor leading to the production of very different molecular weights and therefore broadening the molecular weight distribution of the polymer produced.
US08658742B2 Epoxy resin imbibed polymer particles
The present invention relates to a stable aqueous dispersion of thermoplastic polymer particles imbibed with a thermosettable compound. The polymer particles are characterized by having a sufficient concentration of anti-agglomerating functional groups to stabilize the latex against agglomeration. The dispersion is useful as one part of a two-pack formulation.
US08658741B2 Process for the post-modification of homo and copolymers prepared by controlled free radical polymerization processes
The instant invention pertains to the preparation of polymers or copolymers wherein in a first step a controlled free radical polymerization process is carried out and in a second step the resulting polymer is modified by transesterification reactions. The final modified polymer or copolymer is useful as a dispersant for pigments. Further aspects of the invention are the thus prepared polymers or copolymers, a pigment concentrate containing the polymer or copolymer and a coating material containing the pigment concentrate.
US08658736B2 Epoxy resin composition, prepreg and fiber-reinforced composite material
An epoxy resin composition comprising an epoxy resin [A], an amine-based curing agent [B] and a block copolymer [C] as components, wherein the epoxy resin [A] contains [Aa] an epoxy resin having at least one structure selected from a condensed polycyclic structure, biphenyl structure and oxazolidone ring structure; [Ab] an epoxy resin selected from a polyfunctional amine type epoxy resin [Ab1] and a liquid bisphenol type epoxy resin [Ab2], and the block copolymer [C] is at least one block copolymer selected from the group consisting of S-B-M, B-M and M-B-M. The present invention provides an epoxy resin composition that can be cured to form a cured product excellent in heat resistance, elastic modulus and toughness.
US08658732B2 Cavitated oriented polyethylene polymer composites
Solid state draw a polymer billet, wherein at least 50 percent of all polymers in the billet is a continuous phase of polyethylene polymer having a density of 0.941-0.959 grams per cubic centimeter and a weight-average molecular weight that is 110,000 grams per mole or greater, at a drawing rate of 1.2 meters per minute or faster using a tensile force to create an oriented and cavitated polymer composition whose cross section dimensions all exceed two millimeters.
US08658726B2 Composites of polysiloxane polymers and inorganic nanoparticles
Desirable composites of polysiloxane polymers and inorganic nanoparticles can be formed based on the appropriate selection of the surface properties of the particles and the chemical properties of the polymer. High loadings of particles can be achieved with good dispersion through the polymer. The composites can have good optical properties. In some embodiments, the inorganic particles are substantially free of surface modification.
US08658723B2 Epoxy resin composition
A composition capable of phase separation contains an epoxy resin and an impact modifier formed from at least one dimer fatty acid and/or dimer fatty diol. The composition is suitable for use as an adhesive, particularly in microelectronics.
US08658720B2 Thermoplastic resin composition with improved compatibility
Disclosed herein is a thermoplastic resin composition that can have improved compatibility by introducing a branched acrylic copolymer to a polycarbonate resin. The thermoplastic resin composition can have good scratch resistance in addition to good colorability and appearance without requiring the addition of a compatibilizer.
US08658717B2 Asphalt paving materials and methods for making the same
An asphalt paving material comprises an asphalt binder present in an amount of from about 3 to about 8 weight percent of the asphalt paving material. The asphalt binder comprises base asphalt and oxidized polyolefin that is present in an amount of from about 0.25 to about 10 weight percent of the base asphalt. Aggregate is present in an amount of about 92 to about 97 weight percent of the asphalt paving material. The oxidized polyolefin effectively adheres the asphalt binder to the aggregate so as to resist stripping of the asphalt binder from the aggregate caused by moisture.
US08658713B2 Bone cement composition and production method thereof, and kit for producing the same
A bone cement composition which contains titanium dioxide particles having a median diameter of 0.5 to 7.0 μm as measured by a laser diffraction/scattering particle size distribution analyzer and a BET specific surface area of 0.5 to 7.0 m2/g as measured by a nitrogen adsorption method, and a base-forming component comprising a (meth)acrylate polymer and a (meth)acrylate monomer, wherein the content of the titanium dioxide particles is 5 to 50% by mass based on the total mass of the composition. The bone cement composition has bioactivity and is capable of forming a hardened material having a high mechanical strength.
US08658712B2 Methods of treatment of the dental pulp and filling root canals using water-based material
Improved compositions comprising a mixture of particulate materials with water-based liquids containing water-soluble polymers and surfactants are provided. Examples of particulate powders include mixtures of calcium silicate, calcium aluminate, calcium sulfate, and hydroxyapatite. Examples of water-soluble polymers include polyvinyl alcohols, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, partially hydrolyzed polyvinyl acetates, polyacrylic acid, and polymethacrylic acid. Surfactants such as sodium dodecyl sulfate are added to the composition to interact with the polymeric materials. The compositions are particularly suitable for sealing and obturating dental root canals and root apices. The composition provides a stable barrier to bacterial and fluid leakage in the root canal system of a tooth. In addition, the compositions help promote the growth of new bone and tissue surrounding the root-tip area or dentin tissue that covers an injured or amputated pulp.
US08658705B2 Carbon oxides removal
A process for reducing the carbon oxide content in natural gas, by producing a carbon oxide containing natural gas from a geological formation through a natural gas delivery system; providing a reaction zone containing at least one catalyst suitable for hydrocarbon conversion in the natural gas delivery system; introducing hydrogen into the carbon oxide containing natural gas to form a reaction mixture; and passing the reaction mixture to the catalyst in the reaction zone to convert at least a portion of the carbon oxides in the natural gas to hydrocarbons.
US08658703B2 Aqueous suspension preparations
Addition of polyvinylpyrrolidone and a water-soluble anionic macromolecular compound to an aqueous suspension of a hardly soluble drug allows to provide an aqueous suspension in which aggregation of drug particles, formation of macro crystals from suspended particles and formation of secondary particles from deposited particles are prevented, and adhesion and adsorption to containers made of plastics, e.g., polypropylene or polyethylene, are avoided. As it has a good redispersibility, the aqueous suspension is useful as eye drops, nasal drops, ear drops, injections, oral preparations, liniments and lotions.
US08658702B2 Soluble anion exchangers from hyperbranched macromolecules
Novel macromolecules for filtering contaminants from water and non-aqueous solutions. Molecules such as polyethyleneimine (PEI) may be functionalized, cross-linked, and/or quaternized to improve their binding capacity or selectivity with particular water contaminants such as bromide, nitrate, and sulfate. The macromolecules may be either recyclable or non-recyclable, and may be recovered or separated from water using means such as ultrafiltration, flocculation, or immobilization on a substrate.
US08658698B2 Insecticidal compounds
A compound of formula (I) wherein A1, A2, A3, A4, G1, G2, R1, R2, L, Q1, and Q2 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.
US08658691B2 Crystalline forms of a 3-[2-methanesulfonyl-1-(4-trifluoromethyl-phenoxy)ethyl]pyrrolidine compound
The invention provides crystalline hydrochloride salts of (S)-3-[(S)-2-methanesulfonyl-1-(4-trifluoromethylphenoxy)ethyl]pyrrolidine. This invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising the crystalline salts, processes and intermediates for preparing the crystalline salts, and methods of using the crystalline salts to treat diseases.
US08658690B2 Use of novel compounds from fruiting body of Antrodia camphorata for treating an inflammatory disorder
Disclosed herein are isolated compounds or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, which exhibit immunostimulatory or anti-inflammatory effects. The compounds are isolated from the fruiting body of A. camphorata in a solid culture. Also disclosed are methods of stimulating immune responses and/or treating an inflammatory disorder with these compounds and pharmaceutical compositions including the compounds or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof.
US08658683B2 Combination of alpha-2 receptor agonist (clonidin) and anti-muscarinic agent (oxybutynin) for the treatment of sialorrhoea
An alpha2 adrenoreceptor agonist eg. clonidine, brimonidine, monoxidine, lofexidine is useful for the treatment of siaiorrhoea, administered by the paraungual, sublingual or buccal route. The patient to be treated is also given an anti-muscarinic agent eg. oxybutynin, glycopyrrolate, ipratropium.
US08658681B2 Treatment of hyperproliferative disorders with diarylhydantoin compounds
The present invention relates to diarylhydantoin compounds, including diarylthiohydantoins, and methods for synthesizing them and using them in the treatment of hormone refractory prostate cancer.
US08658680B2 Chemically stable dispersions of prothioconazole and processes for preparing them
Chemically stable aqueous dispersions of prothioconazole and processes for preparing them are provided. The dispersions comprise prothioconazole present in an aqueous medium, and a sulfur-containing compound present in an amount effective to render the dispersion chemically stable.
US08658678B2 Methods and compositions for increasing solubility of azole drug compounds that are poorly soluble in water
The combination of any two of a polyol, a polyol ether, and a low carbon organic alcohol provides a synergistic effect on the solubility of azole compounds, such as metronidazole, in aqueous fluid.
US08658674B2 Thiophene analogues for the treatment or prevention of flavivirus infections
Compounds represented by formula I: or pharmaceutically acceptable salts and solvates thereof, wherein R1, X, Y, and Z are as defined herein, are useful for treating flaviviridae viral infections.
US08658672B2 HIF-1α activating agent
The present invention relates to a HIF-lα activator containing clioquinol and its derivatives as an active ingredient. Clioquinol and its derivatives of the invention inhibit HIF-1α(hypoxia-inducible factor-lα) ubiquitination in normoxic cells and thus accumulate HIF-lα. In the meantime, CQ inhibits FIH-I activity and thereby induces transcription activity of the accumulated HIF-lα, resulting in the induction of expressions of HIF-lα target genes VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) and EPO (erythropoietin). Therefore, clioquinol and its derivatives can be effectively used as a therapeutic agent for ischemic disease.
US08658669B2 Bridged bicyclic heteroaryl substituted triazoles useful as Axl inhibitors
Bridged bicyclic heteroaryl substituted triazoles and pharmaceutical compositions containing the compounds are disclosed as being useful in inhibiting the activity of the receptor protein tyrosine kinase Axl. Methods of using the compounds in treating diseases or conditions associated with Axl activity are also disclosed.
US08658665B2 3,6-disubstituted xanthylium salts and use thereof in treatment of tauopathies
This invention pertains generally to processes, uses, methods and materials utilizing particular xanthylium compounds, including compounds of formula (I) and (II), as further defined herein. These compounds are useful as drugs, for example, in the treatment of tauopathies, such as Alzheimer's disease.
US08658664B2 Cyclopamine tartrate salt and uses thereof
The present invention provides compositions and methods for modulating smoothened-dependent pathway activation. The present invention provides highly water-soluble analogs of cyclopamine that are potent, hedgehog signaling inhibitors less toxic than cyclopamine. The compounds of the present invention are particularly useful in treating cancers associated with hedgehog signalling.
US08658660B2 5-fluoro-4-imino-3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2-(1H)-ones derivatives
This present disclosure is related to the field of 5-fluoro-4-imino-3-(substituted)-3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)ones and their derivatives and to the use of these compounds as fungicides.
US08658652B2 Antifolate combinations
The present invention provides combinations of active agents, such combinations comprising one or more antifolate compounds. The particularly can include methotrexate and one or more further antifolate compounds. In specific embodiments, the combinations are useful for treating certain conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis. The invention also provides articles useful to provide the combinations in desirable dosage forms and combinations. The combinations further may be useful in the treatment of further conditions, including abnormal cell proliferation, inflammatory diseases, asthma, and arthritis.
US08658651B2 Compounds that are ERK inhibitors
Disclosed are the ERK inhibitors of formula 1.0: (Formula (A1)), and the pharmaceutically acceptable salts, esters and solvates thereof. Q is a piperidine ring that can have a bridge or a fused ring. All other substitutents are as defined herein. Also disclosed are methods of treating cancer using the compounds of formula A1.
US08658648B2 Modified chloroquines with single ring moiety or fused ring moiety
The disclosure provides modified chloroquine compounds having single ring or fused ring moieties. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds, methods of using such compounds to inhibit or treat diseases or conditions caused by chloroquine-resistant (CQR) and chloroquine-sensitive (CqS) malaria parasites and other CQ-susceptible microorganisms, and processes and intermediates useful for preparing such compounds.
US08658647B2 Integrin-linked kinase inhibitors
A number of compounds and use of the compounds in a method for treating or preventing cancer in a subject by administering to the subject a pharmaceutical composition including a compound of formula I or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof are described. The compounds can also be used to inhibit integrin-linked kinase in a cell, which has an effect on the Akt signaling pathway.
US08658645B2 Use of quinolone antibiotics
The present invention relates to the use of certain quinolone antibiotics for controlling bacterial disorders of the oral cavity, in particular in veterinary medicine.
US08658642B2 Arylsulfonamide CCR3 antagonists
Provided herein are arylsulfonamides that are useful for modulating CCR3 activity, and pharmaceutical compositions thereof. Also provided herein are methods of their use for treating, preventing, or ameliorating one or more symptoms of a CCR3-mediated disorder, disease, or condition.
US08658641B2 Fused, spirocyclic heteroaromatic compounds for the treatment of bacterial infections
The present invention relates to compounds of Formula (I); to pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, to methods of using them to treat bacterial infections, and to methods for their preparation.
US08658635B2 Benzpyrazol derivatives as inhibitors of PI3 kinases
The invention is directed to certain novel compounds of formula (I) and salts thereof. The compounds of the invention are inhibitors of PI3-kinase activity.
US08658629B2 Use of lanostane and Poria extract in treating cachexia
A pharmaceutical composition for treating cachexia, and in particular for treating cancer cachexia. The composition contains a lanostane compound as a potent component. A suitable source of the lanostane compound is a Poria extract from metabolite, sclerotium, or fermentation product of Poria cocos (Schw) Wolf. The Poria extract contains 1-60% of the lanostane compounds by weight of the extract, and is devoid of secolanostane.
US08658627B2 Pregnancy hormone combination for treatment of autoimmune diseases
The present invention relates to pregnancy hormone combinations and methods of treatment for autoimmune diseases having at least two hormonal components, a pregnancy hormone (such as estriol), and a gestagen (such as levonorgestrel or norethindrone) thereby providing for the continuous, uninterrupted administration of pregnancy hormones for the treatment for autoimmune disorders, such as multiple sclerosis.
US08658625B2 External preparation for treating painful skin wound
External preparations for treatment of painful skin wound having an analgesic activity which comprises acetylsalicylic acid or its pharmacologically acceptable salt as an active ingredient.
US08658623B2 Substituted bicyclic methyl amine derivatives as sphingosine-1 phosphate receptors modulators
The present invention relates to novel substituted bicyclic methyl amine derivatives which are useful as sphingosine-1-phosphate receptors modulators and useful for treating a wide variety of disorders associated with modulation of sphingosine-1-phosphate receptors.
US08658622B2 Methods and compositions for preventing and treating a disease related to glycan dysregulation
Contemplated compositions and methods are directed to prevent and/or treat various autoimmune diseases that are typically associated with glycan dysregulation, and especially autoimmune demyelinating diseases. Further especially contemplated aspects include animal models and systems for screening compounds to treat and/or prevent such diseases.
US08658620B2 Pharmaceutical composition, use of 2-iminopyrrolidine derivative for production of pharmaceutical composition, and kit for treatment or amelioration of heart diseases
One embodiment of the present invention is a pharmaceutical composition comprising at least one specific 2-iminopyrrolidine derivative and at least one other compound (B). Another embodiment of the present invention is a pharmaceutical composition comprising at least one specific 2-iminopyrrolidine derivative, which is to be used in combination with at least one other compound (B). According to the present invention, there are provided pharmaceutical compositions capable of treating or ameliorating diseases, such as heart diseases, effectively.
US08658618B2 Methods for preventing or reducing neurotoxicity associated with administering DPD inhibitors in combination with 5-FU and 5-FU prodrugs
Methods for improved administration and dosing of DPD inhibitors in combination with 5-FU and/or 5-FU prodrugs are provided, comprising first administering to a patient in need thereof a DPD inhibitor that substantially eliminates activity of the enzyme in both nervous and non-nervous tissues within the patient and thereafter administering 5-FU or a 5-FU prodrug, wherein the level of 5-FU or 5-FU generated from a prodrug is in substantial excess of DPD inhibitor in the patient.
US08658617B2 Salts of HIV inhibitor compounds
The invention is related to salts of anti-viral compounds, compositions containing such salts, and therapeutic methods that include the administration of such salts, as well as to processes and intermediates useful for preparing such salts.
US08658612B2 Therapeutic agent for malignant mesothelioma and immunostimulant
A method for potentiating the antitumor immunity in an animal by administering REIC/Dkk-3, or a therapeutic agent for malignant mesothelioma containing REIC/Dkk-3, or a vector containing the DNA as an active ingredient; wherein the DNA consists of the nucleotide sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 1; or (b) a DNA hybridizing under stringent conditions to the DNA consisting of a nucleotide sequence complementary to the nucleotide sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 1 and encoding a protein having apoptosis-inducing activity and interleukin (IL-7) production-accelerating activity in cells.
US08658611B2 Apoptosis-inducing agent for prostate cancer cells
According to the present invention, an apoptosis-inducing agent for prostate cancer comprising REIC/Dkk-3 DNA or an REIC/Dkk-3 protein, and a therapeutic agent for prostate cancer and an agent for inhibiting prostate cancer metastasis that comprise such apoptosis-inducing agent are provided.An apoptosis-inducing agent for prostate cancer, comprising, as an active ingredient, an REIC/Dkk-3 protein (a) or (b) or REIC/Dkk-3 DNA (c) or (d): (a) a protein consisting of the amino acid sequence represented by SEQ ID NO: 2; (b) a protein consisting of an amino acid sequence derived from the amino acid sequence represented by SEQ ID NO: 2 by substitution or deletion of 1 or more amino acids; (c) DNA consisting of the nucleotide sequence represented by SEQ ID NO: 1; or (d) DNA that hybridizes under stringent conditions to DNA consisting of a nucleotide sequence complementary to the nucleotide sequence represented by SEQ ID NO: 1 and encodes a protein having apoptosis activity; and a therapeutic agent for prostate cancer comprising such apoptosis-inducing agent are provided.
US08658602B2 Multimeric constructs
Multimeric fusion proteins of an Ig-like domain of Flt-1 are rendered functional by inclusion of a linker moiety. Vectors encoding the fusion proteins and host cells expressing the fusion proteins can be used therapeutically to block neovascularization in individuals with pathological conditions related to neovascularization. Such conditions include age-related macular degeneration, cancer, psoriasis, proliferative diabetic retinopathy, asthma, uveitis, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. The same means of multimerization used for an Iglike domain of Flt-1, i.e., a linker and a multimerization domain, can be used for other polypeptides, including extracellular receptors, antibody variable regions, cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors.
US08658600B2 Antineoplastic hydrogels, and enzyme-instructed preparations thereof
Disclosed is a general methodology to create nano fibers of therapeutic molecules that have a dual role, as both the delivery vehicle and the drug itself. It is shown that with proper molecular design, the integration of enzymatic reaction and self-assembly provides a powerful method to create molecular hydrogels of clinically-used therapeutics without compromising their bioactivities. In addition, the results disclosed herein demonstrate enzyme-instructed self-assembly as a facile strategy for generating the supramolecular hydrogels of molecules that inherently have poor solubility in water. For example, by covalently connecting paclitaxel with a motif that is prone to self-assemble, a hydrogel of paclitaxel can be formed without compromising the activity of the paclitaxel.
US08658598B2 Recombinant melusin fusion protein as pharmacological agent in the treatment of heart pathologies
A recombinant melusin fusion protein having an improved stability and a capability to reach intracellular compartments as compared to recombinant melusin in vivo, wherein said protein comprises i) a human melusin protein having the amino acid sequence as defined in SEQ ID No.:1, or a homologue thereof having at least 60%, preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 90% sequence identity to SEQ ID No.:1 and having the function of native melusin protein or a human melusin portion derived from SEQ ID No.:1 or homologue thereof having at least 60%, preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 90% sequence identity of the melusin portion derived from SEQ ID No.:1 and having the function of native melusin protein and ii) a cell penetrating polypeptide.
US08658590B2 Coated sodium percarbonate particles
Coated sodium percarbonate particles comprising a core of sodium percarbonate obtainable by fluidized bed buildup granulation, and a coating layer comprising sodium sulfate and sodium carbonate in a weight ratio of from 95:5 to 75:25 and in which the proportion of sodium sulfate and sodium carbonate is at least 80% by weight, effect as a detergent component an improved washing power of the detergent and exhibit a high storage stability in detergent formulations.
US08658588B2 Self-adhesive high viscosity cleaning composition
A composition for cleaning hard surfaces which is self-adhering to a wet or dry hard surface through a plurality of flows of water thereover. The composition is a gel having a viscosity of about 600,000 cP to about 1,500,000 cP and is capable of being manually applied, i.e., in absence of an applicating dispenser, to a hard surface. The gel composition with high viscosity provides for continuous cleaning until depletion, or may be used for one-time cleaning at any time between application of the composition to a hard surface and depletion of the gel composition.
US08658586B2 Copolymer for surface processing or modification
The invention relates to a composition for processing and/or modifying surfaces, particularly hard surfaces or textile surfaces. The composition includes a synthetic copolymer including cationic units and other units
US08658585B2 Detergent products, methods and manufacture
A water-soluble pouch suitable for use in machine dishwashing and which comprises a plurality of compartments in generally superposed or superposable relationship, each containing one or more detergent active or auxiliary components, and wherein the pouch has a volume of from about 5 to about 70 ml and a longitudinal/transverse aspect ratio in the range from about 2:1 to about 1:8, preferably from about 1:1 to about 1:4. The water-soluble pouch allows for optimum delivery of dishwashing detergent. A process for the manufacture of multi-compartment pouches and a pack to contain the pouches are also disclosed.
US08658583B2 Method for making a photoresist stripping solution comprising an organic sulfonic acid and an organic hydrocarbon solvent
An improved method for making a photoresist stripping solution for a metal-containing semi-conductor substrate where the stripping solution comprises a blend of at least one organic sulfonic acid with a halogen-free hydrocarbon solvent wherein concentrations of trace amounts of residual sulfuric acid and sulfur trioxide in the blend are reduced to very low levels.
US08658581B2 Shampoo composition with improved care performance
A cosmetic preparation is disclosed, comprising (a) at least one surfactant selected from the group consisting of non-alkoxylated anionic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants and amphoteric surfactants, (b) a microemulsion, and (c) at least one cationic polymer.
US08658580B2 Superabsorbing gel for actinide, lanthanide, and fission product decontamination
The present invention provides an aqueous gel composition for removing actinide ions, lanthanide ions, fission product ions, or a combination thereof from a porous surface contaminated therewith. The composition comprises a polymer mixture comprising a gel forming cross-linked polymer and a linear polymer. The linear polymer is present at a concentration that is less than the concentration of the cross-linked polymer. The polymer mixture is at least about 95% hydrated with an aqueous solution comprising about 0.1 to about 3 percent by weight (wt %) of a multi-dentate organic acid chelating agent, and about 0.02 to about 0.4 molar (M) carbonate salt, to form a gel. When applied to a porous surface contaminated with actinide ions, lanthanide ions, and/or other fission product ions, the aqueous gel absorbs contaminating ions from the surface.
US08658579B2 Lubricating grease compositions
Lubricating grease composition comprising: (i) a base oil; and (ii) a thickener system comprising (i) a lithium soap of a first carboxylic acid selected from C12-C24 hydroxy carboxylic acids and (ii) a lithium soap of a second carboxylic acid selected from C12-C24 branched carboxylic acids, C12-C24 dihydroxy carboxylic acids and mixtures thereof. The lubricating grease compositions according to the present invention have improved oil bleeding and shear stability properties, as well as improved grease lifetime and increased relubrication intervals.
US08658577B2 Anti-wear agent and lubricating composition with superior anti-wear properties containing same
The present invention provides an anti-wear compound selected from phosphorus compounds as represented by the following General Formula (2) or metal salts thereof as represented by the following General Formula (3).
US08658571B2 Wet-chemical method for producing high-temperature superconductor
The invention relates to a method for the wet chemical production of an HTSL on a carrier, wherein an HTSL precursor solution comprising no trifluoroacetate may be utilized if the same is heated to a temperature Ts during the heat treatment of the HTSL precursor, wherein the remaining substances of the HTSL precursor solution form at least a partial melt, which is below the temperature at which RE2BaCuOx is formed, and which is deposited from the liquid phase while forming a peritectic.
US08658569B2 Substituted quinolinones having herbicidal action
Substituted quinolinones of the formula I in which the variables are defined according to the description, their agriculturally suitable salts, processes and intermediates for preparing the compounds of the formula I, compositions comprising them and their use as herbicides, i.e. for controlling harmful plants, and also a method for controlling unwanted vegetation which comprises allowing a herbicidally effective amount of at least one compound of the formula I to act on plants, their seed and/or their habitat.
US08658567B2 Compositions containing anthraquinone derivatives as growth promoters and antifungal agents
Compositions for modulating plant growth, seed germination and soil borne diseases comprising anthraquinone derivatives are disclosed.
US08658565B2 Active compound combinations
Compositions comprising a (A) dithiino-tetracarboximide of formula (I) and at least one agriculturally beneficial biological control agent (B) are disclosed. A method for curatively or preventively controlling phytopathogenic fungi of plants or crops is disclosed. A method for treating seed and a method for protecting seed are disclosed.
US08658563B2 Method and apparatus for sorbent production, primarily for removing arsenic from drinking water
The object of the invention is method and apparatus for sorbent production. The method comprises the steps of saturating a moisture-absorbent, wettable organic support material with the aqueous solution of a water-soluble ferric salt, then filtering it and drying it to constant weight; saturating the support material with a stoichiometric quantity (computed relative to the iron content of the support material) of oxalic acid and/or water-soluble salt of oxalic acid, then filtering it and drying it to constant weight, while converting the iron ions to insoluble ferric oxalate; converting the saturated support material to activated carbon by anaerobic heating, then subjecting said saturated support material to anaerobic cooling, while the ferric oxalate is decomposed into iron and carbon dioxide; preoxidizing iron particles of the activated carbon by a water-soluble peroxide compound, filtering the activated carbon, and rinsing it to completely remove salt therefrom, then filtering it again and drying it; converting the iron hydroxide formed on the surface of the iron particles into magnetite by anaerobic heating of the activated carbon, and subsequently cooling in an anaerobic manner the thus produced sorbent to room temperature.
US08658560B1 Hydrogenation catalyst for nitro-aromatic compounds and method for preparing the same
The present invention relates to a hydrogenation catalyst for nitro-aromatic compounds, especially nitrobenzene and a method for preparing the same. Particularly, the present invention relates to a hydrogenation catalyst for nitrobenzene, which contains palladium and zinc on a carrier, and is prepared by a process comprising steps of: fixing a zinc component on a carrier; and fixing a palladium component on the carrier on which the zinc component is fixed. Further, it is applicable for a corresponding process for preparing aromatic amino compounds by way of a reaction for hydrogenating nitro-aromatic compounds, and demonstrates improved selectivity, reactivity and stability.
US08658558B2 Hydroconversion multi-metallic catalyst and method for making thereof
In a process for forming a bulk hydroprocessing catalyst by sulfiding a catalyst precursor made in a co-precipitation reaction, up to 60% of the metal precursor feeds do not react to form catalyst precursor and end up in the supernatant. In the present disclosure, the metals can be recovered in an electro-coagulation reactor, wherein portion of the metal residuals in the supernatant reacts with the electrodes to form a slurry containing insoluble metal compounds. The insoluble metal compounds are isolated and recovered, forming an effluent stream. The insoluble metal compounds and/or the effluent stream can be further treated to form at least a metal precursor feed which can be used in the co-precipitation reaction.
US08658556B2 Catalyst systems comprising multiple non-coordinating anion activators and methods for polymerization therewith
This invention relates to a method to polymerize olefins comprising contacting olefins with a catalyst system comprising a transition metal catalyst compound and: 1) at least two NCA activators represented by the formula: Zd+ (Ad-), where Z is a Bronsted acid or a reducible Lewis acid, Ad- is a boron containing NCA, d is 1, 2, or 3, and where Z is a Bronsted acid and Z is a reducible Lewis acid in the first and second NCA activators, respectively; or 2) at least two NCA activators, one as described in Formula I and one not as described in Formula I; or 3) two NCA activators as described in Formula I except that the N in the second NCA in the ArNHal is at a different position in the nitrogen containing aromatic ring than the N in the first NCA.
US08658549B2 Crystallizing glass solder and use thereof
A crystallizing glass solder for high-temperature applications, containing, in % by weight on an oxide basis: 45% to 60% of BaO, 25% to 40% of SiO2, 5% to 15% of B2O3, 0 to <2% of Al2O3, and at least one alkaline earth metal oxide from the group consisting of MgO, CaO and SrO, wherein CaO is 0% to 5% and the sum of the alkaline earth metal oxides MgO, CaO and SrO is 0% to 20%, preferably 2% to 15%. The glass solder is preferably free from TeO2 and PbO. Preferred embodiments of the glass solder contain from 3 to 15 wt. % of Y2O3 and have low porosity and high stability with respect to a moist fuel gas environment.
US08658545B2 Vapor deposition device, vapor deposition method and organic EL display device
A vapor deposition source (60), a limiting plate unit (80), and a vapor deposition mask (70) are disposed in this order. The limiting plate unit includes a plurality of limiting plates (81) disposed along a first direction. At least a portion of surfaces (83) defining a limiting space (82) of the limiting plate unit and surfaces (84) of the limiting plate unit opposing the vapor deposition source is constituted by at least one outer surface member (110, 120) capable of attaching to and detaching from a base portion (85). Accordingly, a vapor deposition device that is capable of forming a coating film in which edge blur is suppressed on a large-sized substrate and that has excellent maintenance performance can be obtained.
US08658544B2 Method for texturing silicon surfaces and wafers thereof
This invention relates to a method for texturing a silicon surface and silicon wafers made by the method, where the method comprises immersing the wafers in an alkaline solution at pH>10, and applying a potential difference between the wafer and a platinum electrode in the electrolyte in the range of +10 to +85 V.
US08658538B2 Method of fabricating memory device
A method of fabricating a memory device includes forming a plurality of first insulative blocks and a plurality of second insulative blocks arranged in an alternating manner in a substrate, forming a plurality of wide trenches in the substrate to form a plurality of protruding blocks, forming a word line on each sidewall of the protruding blocks, isolating the word line on each sidewall of the protruding block, and forming an trench filler in the protruding block to form two mesa structures, wherein the first insulative block and the second insulative block have different depths, and the wide trenches are transverse to the first insulative blocks.
US08658535B2 Optimized annular copper TSV
The present disclosure provides a thermo-mechanically reliable copper TSV and a technique to form such TSV during BEOL processing. The TSV constitutes an annular trench which extends through the semiconductor substrate. The substrate defines the inner and outer sidewalls of the trench, which sidewalls are separated by a distance within the range of 5 to 10 microns. A conductive path comprising copper or a copper alloy extends within said trench from an upper surface of said first dielectric layer through said substrate. The substrate thickness can be 60 microns or less. A dielectric layer having interconnect metallization conductively connected to the conductive path is formed directly over said annular trench.
US08658533B2 Semiconductor interconnect structure with multi-layered seed layer providing enhanced reliability and minimizing electromigration
An interconnect structure and method for forming a multi-layered seed layer for semiconductor interconnections are disclosed. Specifically, the method and structure involves utilizing sequential catalytic chemical vapor deposition, which is followed by annealing, to form the multi-layered seed layer of an interconnect structure. The multi-layered seed layer will improve electromigration resistance, decrease void formation, and enhance reliability of ultra-large-scale integration (ULSI) chips.
US08658530B2 Method of fabricating an epitaxial Ni silicide film
An epitaxial Ni silicide film that is substantially non-agglomerated at high temperatures, and a method for forming the epitaxial Ni silicide film, is provided. The Ni silicide film of the present disclosure is especially useful in the formation of ETSOI (extremely thin silicon-on-insulator) Schottky junction source/drain FETs. The resulting epitaxial Ni silicide film exhibits improved thermal stability and does not agglomerate at high temperatures.
US08658529B2 Method for manufacturing semiconductor device
An oxide film is formed on an inner surface of a via hole in which a through electrode is to be formed, and thereafter a Cu film is embedded in the via hole. When an excess Cu film formed on a first interlayer insulating film is removed by a CMP method, the oxide film is also polished and reduced in thickness. Using the oxide film reduced in thickness as a hard mask, a wiring trench is formed in the first interlayer insulating film. At this time, the oxide film is further reduced in thickness. After a conductive material is embedded in the wiring trench, an excess conductive material is removed by polishing. At this time, the remaining oxide film is removed entirely by the polishing.
US08658523B2 Method for making semiconductor insulated-gate field-effect transistor having multilayer deposited metal source(s) and/or drain(s)
A metal source/drain field effect transistor is fabricated such that the source/drain regions are deposited, multilayer structures, with at least a second metal deposited on exposed surfaces of a first metal.
US08658522B2 Methods and apparatus for incorporating nitrogen in oxide films
In a first aspect, a first method is provided. The first method includes the steps of (1) preconditioning a process chamber with an aggressive plasma; (2) loading a substrate into the process chamber; and (3) performing plasma nitridation on the substrate within the process chamber. The process chamber is preconditioned using a plasma power that is at least 150% higher than a plasma power used during plasma nitridation of the substrate. Numerous other aspects are provided.
US08658519B1 Nanowires, nanowire networks and methods for their formation and use
Various embodiments provide non-planar nanowires, nanowire arrays, and nanowire networks as well as methods of their formation and applications. The non-planar nanowires and their arrays can be formed in a controlled manner on surfaces having a non-planar orientation. In embodiments, two or more adjacent nanowires from different surfaces can grow to merge together forming one or more nanowire branches and thus forming a nanowire network. In embodiments, the non-planar nanowires and nanowire networks can be used for cantilever oscillation, switching and transistor actions.
US08658514B2 Method for manufacturing a semiconductor-on-insulator structure having low electrical losses, and corresponding structure
A manufacturing process for a semiconductor-on-insulator structure having reduced electrical losses and which includes a support substrate made of silicon, an oxide layer and a thin layer of semiconductor material, and a polycrystalline silicon layer interleaved between the support substrate and the oxide layer. The process includes a treatment capable of conferring high resistivity to the support substrate prior to formation of the polycrystalline silicon layer, and then conducting at least one long thermal stabilization on the structure at a temperature not exceeding 950° C. for at least 10 minutes.
US08658513B2 Isolation by implantation in LED array manufacturing
An improved method of creating LED arrays is disclosed. A p-type layer, multi-quantum well and n-type layer are disposed on a substrate. The device is then etched to expose portions of the n-type layer. To create the necessary electrical isolation between adjacent LEDs, an ion implantation is performed to create a non-conductive implanted region. In some embodiments, an implanted region extends through the p-type layer, MQW and n-type layer. In another embodiment, a first implanted region is created in the n-type layer. In addition, a second implanted region is created in the p-type layer and multi-quantum well immediately adjacent to etched n-type layer. In some embodiments, the ion implantation is done perpendicular to the substrate. In other embodiments, the implant is performed at an angle.
US08658509B2 Semiconductor resistors formed at a lower height level in a semiconductor device comprising metal gates
In sophisticated semiconductor devices comprising high-k metal gate electrode structures formed on the basis of a replacement gate approach, semiconductor-based resistors may be provided without contributing to undue process complexity in that the resistor region is recessed prior to depositing the semiconductor material of the gate electrode structure. Due to the difference in height level, a reliable protective dielectric material layer is preserved above the resistor structure upon exposing the semiconductor material of the gate electrode structure and removing the same on the basis of selective etch recipes. Consequently, well-established semiconductor materials, such as polysilicon, may be used for the resistive structures in complex semiconductor devices, substantially without affecting the overall process sequence for forming the sophisticated replacement gate electrode structures.
US08658502B2 Method for reducing morphological difference between N-doped and undoped polysilicon gates after etching
The present invention discloses a method for reducing the morphological difference between N-doped and undoped poly-silicon gates after etching, comprising the following sequential steps: depositing a hard mask layer on a substrate template having N-doped poly-silicon and undoped poly-silicon to form an N-doped poly-silicon hard mask layer and an undoped poly-silicon hard mask layer respectively, and etching the undoped poly-silicon hard mask layer to make a thickness difference between the N-doped poly-silicon hard mask layer and the undoped poly-silicon hard mask layer; depositing an anti-reflection layer, and etching according to a predetermined pattern until exposing the N-doped poly-silicon, wherein when the N-doped poly-silicon is exposed, the undoped poly-silicon is etched to a certain degree; and removing residuals on the surface of the above formed structure, and etching to form an N-doped poly-silicon gate and an undoped poly-silicon gate, respectively.
US08658498B1 Single mask spacer technique for semiconductor device features
A method for fabricating vertical surround gate structures in semiconductor device arrays. The method includes forming pillars separated by vertical and horizontal trenches on a substrate. Forming a gate layer over the pillars and trenches such that the gate layer forms gate trenches in the horizontal trenches. The method includes forming fillers within the gate trenches, and planarizing the gate layer and fillers. The method also includes successively etching a first portion of the gate layer, removing the fillers, and etching a second portion of the gate layer.
US08658496B2 Etch stop layer for memory cell reliability improvement
A memory device and a method of making the memory device are provided. A first dielectric layer is formed on a substrate, a floating gate is formed on the first dielectric layer, a second dielectric layer is formed on the floating gate, a control gate is formed on the second dielectric layer, and at least one film, including a conformal film, is formed over a surface of the memory device.
US08658494B2 Dual contact metallization including electroless plating in a semiconductor device
Contact elements of sophisticated semiconductor devices may be formed for gate electrode structures and for drain and source regions in separate process sequences in order to apply electroless plating techniques without causing undue overfill of one type of contact opening. Consequently, superior process uniformity in combination with a reduced overall contact resistance may be accomplished. In some illustrative embodiments, cobalt may be used as a contact metal without any additional conductive barrier materials.
US08658488B2 Method for forming semiconductor chip with graphene based devices in an interconnect structure of the chip
A graphene layer is provided onto at least an upper surface of a first dielectric material which includes at least one first conductive region contained therein. At least one semiconductor device is formed using the graphene layer as an element of the at least one semiconductor device. After forming the at least one semiconductor device, a second dielectric material is formed covering the graphene layer, the at least one semiconductor device, and portions of the first dielectric material. The second dielectric that is formed includes at least one second conductive region contained therein, and the at least one second conductive region is in contact with a conductive element of the at least one semiconductor device.
US08658485B2 Semiconductor device and method of fabricating the same
There is provided a semiconductor device and a method of fabricating the same. The method of fabricating a semiconductor device according to the present invention comprises: forming a transistor structure including a gate, and source and drain regions on a semiconductor substrate; carrying out a first silicidation to form a first metal silicide layer on the source and drain regions; depositing a first dielectric layer on the substrate, the top of the first dielectric layer being flush with the top of the gate region; forming contact holes at the portions corresponding to the source and drain regions in the first dielectric layer; and carrying out a second silicidation to form a second metal silicide at the gate region and in the contact holes, wherein the first metal silicide layer is formed to prevent silicidation from occurring at the source and drain regions during the second silicidation.
US08658483B2 Method of fabricating an integrated circuit device having backside bevel protection
A method of fabricating an integrated circuit device is provided. The method includes forming a replacement gate structure with a dummy polysilicon layer on a first surface of a substrate. The method further includes depositing a dielectric layer by a thermal process to form offset spacers on two opposing sides of the replacement gate structure, wherein the dielectric layer is deposited on the first surface and a second surface opposing the first surface of the substrate. The method further includes removing the dummy polysilicon layer from the replacement gate structure, wherein the dielectric layer on the second surface of the substrate protects the second surface of the substrate during the removing step.
US08658482B2 Compound semiconductor device and method for fabricating the same
The compound semiconductor device comprises an i-GaN buffer layer 12 formed on an SiC substrate 10; an n-AlGaN electron supplying layer 16 formed on the i-GaN buffer layer 12; an n-GaN cap layer 18 formed on the n-AlGaN electron supplying layer 16; a source electrode 20 and a drain electrode 22 formed on the n-GaN cap layer 18; a gate electrode 26 formed on the n-GaN cap layer 18 between the source electrode 20 and the drain electrode 22; a first protection layer 24 formed on the n-GaN cap layer 18 between the source electrode 20 and the drain electrode 22; and a second protection layer 30 buried in an opening 28 formed in the first protection layer 24 between the gate electrode 26 and the drain electrode 22 down to the n-GaN cap layer 18 and formed of an insulation film different from the first protection layer.
US08658480B2 Method for manufacturing active array substrate
A method for manufacturing an active array substrate is provided herein. The active array substrate can be manufactured by using only two photolithography process steps. The photolithography process step using a first photomask may be provided for forming a drain electrode, a source electrode, a data line and/or a data line connecting pad and a patterned transparent conductive layer, etc. The photolithography process step using a second photomask may be utilized for forming a gate electrode, a gate line, a gate insulating layer, a channel layer and/or a gate line connecting pad, and so forth.
US08658476B1 Low temperature P+ polycrystalline silicon material for non-volatile memory device
A method of forming a non-volatile memory device. The method includes providing a substrate having a surface region and forming a first dielectric material overlying the surface region of the substrate. A first electrode structure is formed overlying the first dielectric material and a p+ polycrystalline silicon germanium material is formed overlying the first electrode structure. A p+ polycrystalline silicon material is formed overlying the first electrode structure using the polycrystalline silicon germanium material as a seed layer at a deposition temperature ranging from about 430 Degree Celsius to about 475 Degree Celsius without further anneal. The method forms a resistive switching material overlying the polycrystalline silicon material, and a second electrode structure including an active metal material overlying the resistive switching material.
US08658475B1 Stacked body-contacted field effect transistor
The present disclosure relates to a stacked body-contacted field effect transistor (FET) that includes multiple body-contacted FETs coupled in series and a lateral isolation band encircling a periphery of the multiple FETs. The multiple FETs include a first end FET having a first body, which is not directly connected to any body of any other of the multiple FETs, and a second end FET having a second body, which is not directly connected to any body of any other of the multiple FETs. The multiple FETs may include inner FETs that incorporate merged source-drains to save space. By keeping the bodies electrically separated from one another, the full benefits of body-contacting may be realized. However, by incorporating multiple FETs within a single lateral isolation band further saves space.
US08658471B2 Structure for multi-row leadframe and semiconductor package thereof and manufacture method thereof
The present invention relates to a multi-row leadframe for semiconductor packaging, characterized by: forming a plating pattern on a leadframe material (first step); forming a protective pattern on the plating pattern (second step); and forming a nano pattern by using the protective pattern as a mask (third step), whereby a protective pattern is formed on an upper surface of a plating pattern to increase reliability of a product by preventing damage to a plating layer caused by etching solution during pattern formation of leadframe and to thereby solve the problem of using the plating layer as an etching mask.
US08658463B2 Memristor with embedded switching layer
A method of making a memristor having an embedded switching layer include exposing a surface portion of a first electrode material within a via to a reactive species to form the switching layer embedded within and at surface of the via. The via is in contact with a first conductor trace. The method further includes depositing a layer of a second electrode material adjacent to the via surface and patterning the layer into a column aligned with the via. The method further includes depositing an interlayer dielectric material to surround the column and providing a second conductor trace in electrical contact with the second electrode material of the column.
US08658461B2 Self aligned carbide source/drain FET
A field effect transistor includes a metal carbide source portion, a metal carbide drain portion, an insulating carbon portion separating the metal carbide source portion from the metal carbide portion, a nanostructure formed over the insulating and carbon portion and connecting the metal carbide source portion to the metal carbide drain portion, and a gate stack formed on over at least a portion of the insulating carbon portion and at least a portion of the nanostructure.
US08658455B2 System and method for producing flexible dye-sensitized solar cells by a roll-to-roll printing process
A system and a method for mass production of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells at low cost via a continuous roll-to-roll process. While a flexible conductive substrate is constantly in transit on a conveyor, a titanium dioxide (TiO2) layer is: formed by spray printing; sintered; dyed in a dye tank, with or without immersion, by a dye solution sprayed from nozzles while the substrate moves along a conveyor line configured as multiple alternating U-shaped lines; washed and dried; loaded with a gel-type electrolyte by roll-type printing; and covered and pressure-sealed by another flexible conductive substrate, aided by preloaded sealants. The dye solution in the dye tank may be re-circulated, during which process, the temperature, level, concentration of the dye solution may be adjusted and controlled. The roll-to-roll production process may further include erecting anti-leakage walls and leveling the electrolyte layer for preventing post-sealing leakage of the electrolyte.
US08658454B2 Method of fabricating a solar cell
Methods of fabricating solar cells are described. A porous layer may be formed on a surface of a substrate, the porous layer including a plurality of particles and a plurality of voids. A solution may be dispensed into one or more regions of the porous layer to provide a patterned composite layer. The substrate may then be heated.
US08658453B2 Capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer
The first integrated circuit/transducer device 36 of the handheld probe includes CMOS circuits 110 and cMUT elements 112. The cMUT elements 112 function to generate an ultrasonic beam, detect an ultrasonic echo, and output electrical signals, while the CMOS circuits 110 function to perform analog or digital operations on the electrical signals generated through operation of the cMUT elements 112. The manufacturing method for the first integrated circuit/transducer device 36 of the preferred embodiment includes the steps of depositing the lower electrode S102; depositing a sacrificial layer S104; depositing a dielectric layer S106; removing the sacrificial layer S108, followed by the steps of depositing the upper electrode S110 and depositing a protective layer on the upper electrode S112.
US08658445B2 Method for manufacturing phosphor film and method for making LED package having the phosphor film
A method for manufacturing a phosphor film for use in the an LED package, includes following steps: providing a mold comprising a first and a second molding part, the first molding part and the second molding part cooperatively forming a molding chamber, the first molding part defining an opening communicating with the molding chamber; filling a mixture of phosphor particles and a transparent glue into the first opening; moving a piston in the first opening along a direction from the first molding part to the second molding part, thereby pressing the mixture into the molding chamber; solidifying the mixture to form a phosphor film; and removing the phosphor film from the mold. The phosphor film is used to be attached to a top face of an LED chip opposite a substrate on which the LED chip is mounted.
US08658444B2 Semiconductor active matrix on buried insulator
A high resolution active matrix backplane is fabricated using techniques applicable to flexible substrates. A backplane layer including active semiconductor devices is formed on a semiconductor-on-insulator substrate. The backplane layer is spalled from the substrate. A frontplane layer including passive devices such as LCDs, OLEDs, photosensitive materials, or piezo-electric materials is formed over the backplane layer to form an active matrix structure. The active matrix structure may be fabricated to allow bottom emission and provide mechanical flexibility.
US08658438B2 Measurement of lateral diffusion of implanted ions in doped well region of semiconductor devices
The invention provides a measurement of lateral diffusion of implanted ions in the doped well regions of semiconductor devices comprising: designing a test model having active areas, the P-type and N-type doped well regions of the active areas are separated by STI, and the bottom width of the STI is determined; performing multiple processes on the test model comprising the ion implantation process and the tungsten interconnection process to simulate a semiconductor device structure, wherein during the ion implantation process, in the P-type or N-type doped well regions, only the first procedure of the ion implantation process is performed; scanning the test model, obtaining a light-dark pattern of the tungsten interconnects. The present invention is convenient and accessible and can provide reference to optimize the property of the doped well regions of the semiconductor devices and ensure the yield enhancement.
US08658436B2 Method for separating and transferring IC chips
[Problems] There are provided a chip separation method and a chip transfer method using features of dry etching.[Means for Solving the Problems] In the chip separation method, a multiple number of semiconductor devices or semiconductor integrated circuits are separated from a wafer 100 on which the multiple number of semiconductor devices or semiconductor integrated circuits are formed. The method includes forming, on a surface of the wafer 100, a mask layer through which a line-shaped pattern to be removed for separating the semiconductor devices or semiconductor integrated circuits is exposed; and etching the exposed pattern to a depth equal to or larger than about ⅔ of a thickness of the wafer. One group of separated semiconductor devices or semiconductor integrated circuits has a distinguishable shape from another group of separated semiconductor devices or semiconductor integrated circuits.
US08658427B2 Means and methods for assessing increased peroxisomal proliferation
The present invention pertains to the field of toxicological assessments of risk stratification of chemical compounds. Specifically, it relates to a method for diagnosing increased peroxisomal proliferation. It also relates to a method of determining whether a compound is capable of inducing such peroxisomal proliferation in a subject and to a method of identifying a drug for treating increased peroxisomal proliferation. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a data collection of characteristic values of at least five metabolites, a data storage medium for the data collection, and a system and a device for diagnosing increased peroxisomal proliferation. Finally, the present invention pertains to the use of a group of metabolites or means for the determination thereof for the manufacture of a diagnostic device or composition for diagnosing increased peroxisomal proliferation in a subject.
US08658421B2 Circulatory photobioreactor
A circulatory photobioreactor is provided. The circulatory photobioreactor comprises a first cultivating part, a second cultivating part and a pump part connecting the first cultivating part and the second cultivating part. The first cultivating part comprises a culture tank in which culture media are supplied and a first light source coupled to the culture tank, which illuminates the inside of the culture tank. The second cultivating part comprises a culture pipe placed outside of the culture tank and supplied with cultures from the culture tank and a second light source coupled to the culture pipe, which illuminates the inside of the culture pipe. The pump part is connected to both the first cultivating part and the second cultivating part in order to circulate the culture solution between them.
US08658417B2 Multiple-input analytical system
The present disclosure provides an automated sample processing system that can receive samples in different first and second formats and process both sample formats. The disclosure also provides a human papillomavirus testing apparatus. The apparatus has a first input to receive first test specimens in the form of pre-processed cervical samples, and a second input to receive unprocessed cervical samples. A first subsystem prepares second test specimens from the unprocessed cervical samples, and a second subsystem selectively processes and tests first specimens, second test specimens, or first and second test specimens to determine the presence of one or more human papillomavirus indicators.
US08658414B2 Biomass processing
A biomass processing system is disclosed, with an algae biomass growth container and a pyrolysis reactor for pyrolysis processing of the algae biomass. A conveying apparatus links the pyrolysis reactor and the biomass growth container for conveying at least part of at least one of the pyrolysis products from the reactor to the biomass growth container for promoting algae biomass growth. The pyrolysis product is a nutrient-rich aqueous phase produced directly or indirectly through pyrolysis processing to the biomass growth container, e.g. an aqueous phase derived from the vapor products of the pyrolysis, or a char wash obtained by washing the char product of the pyrolysis.
US08658412B2 Altering the interface of hydrocarbon-coated surfaces
Methods and compositions are provided wherein microorganisms are used to alter the interface of hydrocarbons and hydrocarbon-coated surfaces to increase oil recovery, for improved bioremediation and/or pipeline maintenance.
US08658411B2 Method of treating wastewater containing organic compound
The problem addressed by the present invention is to provide a method of treating an organic substance-containing waste liquid, and a treatment apparatus therefor, and an additive for treating an organic substance-containing waste liquid, and a bacterium for degrading an organic substance component or the like in the waste liquid, capable of accomplishing at least one of treatment of the organic substance-containing waste liquid with a high efficiency and a high treatment rate, without substantially generating a foul odor, and obtainment of water quality that is suitable for releasing to sewage, a public water area, or the like. This problem is solved by providing a method of treating an organic substance-containing waste liquid characterized by contacting an activated sludge containing a specified bacterium with an organic substance-containing waste liquid. The invention also provides a treatment apparatus therefor and an additive for treating an organic substance-containing waste liquid which is used by adding the additive to an activated sludge in a treatment tank in which a specified bacterium is present, and a specified bacterium for degrading an organic substance-containing waste liquid.
US08658408B2 Process for production of alcohols by microbial fermentation
The invention provides method for producing butanediol and specifically 2,3-butanediol by anaerobic fermentation of a gaseous substrate comprising CO by a culture of at least one micro-organism. In accordance with particular methods of the invention, 2,3-butanediol is produced by anaerobic fermentation of substrates including carbohydrates and carbon monoxide. The invention further provides for the up-regulation of a native 2,3-butanediol dehydrogenase gene in the at least one micro-organism. The 2,3-butanediol can be further converted to compounds such as butene(s), butadiene and methyl ethyl ketone. These compounds can be further converted to chemical products such as 2-butanol.
US08658395B2 Selective incorporation of 5-hydroxytryptophan into proteins in mammalian cells
This invention provides methods and compositions for incorporation of an unnatural amino acid into a peptide using an orthogonal aminoacyl tRNA synthetase/tRNA pair. In particular, an orthogonal pair is provided to incorporate 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan in a position encoded by an opal mutation.
US08658391B2 Assessment of the effects of topical administration of chemodenervating pharmaceuticals
The present invention provides methods for assessing the activity of topically administered chemodenervating agents. In some embodiments, methods for assessing the activity of topically administered chemodenervating agents involve determining the extent of inhibition of acetylcholine release near the site of administration. In some embodiments, methods for assessing activity of topically administered chemodenervating agents involve observing a reflex motion of a limb of a subject.
US08658388B2 Antibody-based arrays for detecting multiple signal transducers in rate circulating cells
The present invention provides antibody-based arrays for detecting the activation state and/or total amount of a plurality of signal transduction molecules in rare circulating cells and methods of use thereof for facilitating cancer prognosis and diagnosis and the design of personalized, targeted therapies.
US08658387B2 Ehrlichia canis DIVA (differentiate infected from vaccinated animals)
Ehrlichia canis antigens that can be used to differentiate E. canis infected animals from animals that have been challenged with E. canis, e.g., vaccinated against E. canis, are disclosed. The invention also provides compositions and methods for determining the presence of E. canis antigens and antibodies.
US08658381B2 Detection conjugate
The invention relates to a detection conjugate composed of a filament fragment, e.g. a cytoskeletal filament such as actin filaments or microtubules, and recognition elements bound to this fragment as well as kits comprising said detection conjugate and methods how to use said detection conjugate as well as the use for the detection of one or more compounds present within a sample, such as a biological sample.
US08658376B2 DEK as a urine based biomarker for bladder cancer
The present invention is directed to a method of detecting DEK protein in a urine sample. Methods and compositions are provided herein for detecting and diagnosing bladder cancer by chemical-induced precipitation of urine proteins, followed by filtration-induced concentration and Western blot analysis to specifically detect DEK protein. The present method permits specific detection of DEK protein in urine as a biomarker for bladder cancer in humans.
US08658374B2 Binding of aggregated forms of proteins
Aggregating proteins such as IgG, are bound selectively in the presence of the non-aggregated protein using a polyionic binding agent such as dextran sulphate or pentosan (anionic), or polyamine compounds such as pDADMAC (cationic) under selective binding conditions including the use of n-lauroylsarcosine at mildly alkaline pH, and may then be assayed.
US08658370B2 MicroRNA-based methods and compositions for the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of breast cancer
The present invention provides novel methods and compositions for the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of breast cancer. The invention also provides methods of identifying anti-breast cancer agents.
US08658369B2 Methods for evaluating the methylation status of a polynucleotide
The invention provides methods related to evaluating the methylation status of a polynucleotide that includes an internal control.
US08658366B2 Detection of target variants using a fluorescent label and a soluble quencher
Methods, reaction mixtures and systems for detecting the presence or absence of a target nucleic acid variant from a selection of possible variants is described.
US08658362B2 Methods for diagnosing colon cancer using MicroRNAs
The present invention provides novel methods and compositions for the diagnosis and treatment of solid cancers. The invention also provides methods of identifying inhibitors of tumorigenesis.
US08658359B2 Method and apparatus for disrupting cells and purifying nucleic acid using a single chip
Provided herein is a method and apparatus for disrupting cells and purifying nucleic acids in a single chip. The method comprises irradiating a chip with a laser beam, wherein the chip comprises a solid support on which a cell lysis enhancing metal oxide layer, and a cell binding metal oxide layer have been deposited.
US08658355B2 General mass spectrometry assay using continuously eluting co-fractionating reporters of mass spectrometry detection efficiency
The invention provides general methods for quantifying any conceivable compound including small organic molecules and biological molecules in mass spectrometric measurements. The methods include the use of chemical or biological reporters such as artificial polypeptides containing proteolytic cleavage sites, which provide proteolytic reporter peptides for standardization of mass spectrometric detection efficiency. In addition to mass spectrometry standardization between different samples, the artificial polypeptides also standardize sample preparation amongst different samples undergoing mass spectrometric analysis when using electrophoresis separation prior to mass spectrometric analysis. Methods of the present invention also include methods for designing artificial polypeptides with peak to peak continuous liquid chromatography elution profiles spanning the complete or partial analyte elution profile for organic and biological molecules. Also included are the artificial polypeptides predigested with protease, which is compatible for use in experiments with native PAGE, in-solution proteolytic digestion of polypeptides, and small organic molecules undergoing fractionation separation followed by mass spectrometric evaluation.
US08658354B2 Anti-(influenza a virus subtype H5 hemagglutinin) monoclonal antibody
A method of immunoassay of H5 subtype influenza A virus by which the virus can be accurately assayed even in cases where a certain level of mutation has occurred in the H5 subtype influenza A virus, and a kit therefor, and a novel anti-H5 subtype influenza A virus monoclonal antibody which can be used for the immunoassay are disclosed. The antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof of the present invention undergoes antigen-antibody reaction with hemagglutinin of H5 subtype influenza A virus, and the corresponding epitope of the antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof is located in a region other than the receptor subdomain (excluding C-terminal region thereof consisting of 11 amino acids), which antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof does not have neutralizing activity against the influenza A virus.
US08658353B2 Liver cell toxicity assay
The disclosure provides methods for characterizing the toxicity of a candidate molecule to liver cells as defined herein; methods of culturing metabolically active liver cells on a biosensor as defined herein; and biosensor liver culture systems as defined herein.
US08658350B2 Methods for detecting Mycobacterium tuberculosis disease
Methods for detecting an infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) in a subject are disclosed, wherein the subject is a child, a subject with a latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Method are also disclose for detecting an extra-pulmonary Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection in a subject. The methods include detecting the presence of CD8+ T cells that specifically recognize an Mtb polypeptide. The methods include in vitro assays for detecting the presence of CD8+ T cells in a biological sample.
US08658347B2 Method of manufacturing micro lens array
A method of manufacturing a micro lens array, wherein the quality of an image is prevented from being deteriorated as a beam on an off-axis surface reaches a focal plane of a micro lens by forming a shading film for preventing the beam from penetrating through a space between micro lenses of the micro lens array, a micro lens having a high numerical aperture or any shape, such as an aspheric shape, is quickly manufactured at a low cost, and the micro lenses and a mask pattern are easily aligned by forming a mask pattern on a focus region formed by the micro lenses of the micro lens array.
US08658346B2 Pattern forming process, chemically amplified positive resist composition, and resist-modifying composition
A pattern is formed by (1) coating a first positive resist composition onto a substrate, baking, patternwise exposing, PEB, and developing to form a first positive resist pattern including a large area feature, (2) applying a resist-modifying composition comprising a basic nitrogen-containing compound and heating to modify the first resist pattern, and (3) coating a second positive resist composition thereon, patternwise exposing, and developing to form a second resist pattern. The large area feature in the first resist pattern has a film retentivity of at least 50% after the second pattern formation.
US08658337B2 Imaging member layers
The presently disclosed embodiments relate generally to layers that are useful in imaging apparatus members and components, for use in electrophotographic, including digital printing, apparatuses. More particularly, the embodiments pertain to an improved electrophotographic imaging member comprising an overcoat layer which prevents image quality issues such as deletion. The overcoat layer comprises a phenolic triarylamine charge transport molecule, an aminoplast and a triamino triphenyl compound.
US08658335B2 Method of patterning NAND strings using perpendicular SRAF
A lithography mask includes a plurality of patterning features formed on a mask substrate and a first plurality of sub-resolution assist features (SRAFs) formed substantially perpendicular to the patterning features on the mask substrate.
US08658334B2 Transfer mask, method of manufacturing a transfer mask, and method of manufacturing a semiconductor device
Provided is a transfer mask which has a transfer pattern formed in a pattern-forming thin film provided on a transparent substrate and is adapted to be applied with exposure light having a wavelength of 200 nm or less. The pattern-forming thin film is made of a material containing silicon an a transition metal other than chromium and the chromium content in the film is less than 1.0×1018 atoms/cm3.
US08658333B2 Reflective mask
A reflective mask includes a substrate, a first reflective multi-layer, a second reflective multi-layer, a first patterned absorber layer and a second patterned absorber layer. The substrate includes a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The first reflective multi-layer is formed on the first surface of the substrate. The second reflective multi-layer is formed on the second surface of the substrate. The first patterned absorber layer is formed on the first reflective multi-layer. The second patterned absorber layer is formed on the second reflective multi-layer.
US08658332B2 Photopolymer media with enhanced dynamic range
Dynamic range enhancing dopants for photopolymeric media are described. Also described are optical articles using these dopants and methods for making such optical articles.
US08658331B2 Structural reinforcement of membrane electrodes
A catalyst ink composition for a fuel cell electrode is provided. The catalyst ink composition includes a plurality of electrically conductive support particles; a catalyst formed from a finely divided precious metal, the catalyst supported by the conductive support particles; an ionomer; at least one solvent; and a reinforcing material configured to bridge and distribute stresses across the electrically conductive support particles of the ink composition upon a drying thereof. An electrode for a fuel cell and a method of fabricating the electrode with the catalyst ink composition are also provided.
US08658330B2 Composite multilayer seal for PEM fuel cell applications and method for constructing the same
A composite seal having a multilayer elastomeric construction and method for constructing the same is provided. More specifically, the present invention provides a composite seal comprised of a low-durometer elastomer compliant layer coated with, or alternatively encapsulated by, a thin protective layer for securely sealing a bipolar plate and a membrane electrode assembly of a fuel cell. The elastomer compliant layer is preferably a silicone constituent and the thin coat protective layer is preferably a fluoroelastomer or fluoropolymer constituent suitable for bonding to the elastomer compliant layer. The foregoing layers constructing the composite seal are preferably deposited directly onto the aforementioned fuel cell components along a predetermined periphery. The resulting composite seal is thin in construction, resistive to undesired chemical and thermal reactions and provides the necessary compressive compliance without undue stress on the fuel cell assembly.
US08658329B2 Advanced membrane electrode assemblies for fuel cells
A method of preparing advanced membrane electrode assemblies (MEA) for use in fuel cells. A base polymer is selected for a base membrane. An electrode composition is selected to optimize properties exhibited by the membrane electrode assembly based on the selection of the base polymer. A property-tuning coating layer composition is selected based on compatibility with the base polymer and the electrode composition. A solvent is selected based on the interaction of the solvent with the base polymer and the property-tuning coating layer composition. The MEA is assembled by preparing the base membrane and then applying the property-tuning coating layer to form a composite membrane. Finally, a catalyst is applied to the composite membrane.
US08658325B2 Method of controlling fuel cell vehicle and fuel cell system
A fuel cell vehicle is controlled by performing a rate limiting control process for reducing electric power generated by a fuel cell to reduce a frequency at which a voltage generated by the fuel cell is equal to or higher than a predetermined voltage when electric power requested by a load is lowered, and changing a rotational speed of an air pump depending on the electric power requested by the load when the electric power generated by the fuel cell is reduced.
US08658318B2 Electrochemical cell with additive modulator
The present invention relates to an electrochemical cell for generating electrical power that includes an anode, a cathode, a charging electrode and an ionically conductive medium containing at least metal fuel ions and an additive for enhancing at least one electrochemical reaction in the cell. The cell also includes an additive sorbent material in contact with the ionically conductive medium that contains an excess amount of the additive, the sorbent material configured to release the excess additive to the ionically conductive medium as concentration of the additive in the ionically conductive medium is reduced during operation of the cell.
US08658310B2 High capacity electrodes
A high capacity electrode includes a conducting substrate on which a plurality of support filaments are disposed. Each of the support filaments have a length substantially greater than their width and may include, for example, a carbon nano-tube (CNT), a carbon nano-fiber (CNF), and/or a nano-wire (NW). The support filaments are coated with a material, such as silicon, having a greater ion absorbing capacity greater than the neat support filaments. A trunk region of the support filaments proximate to the substrate is optionally kept free of ion absorbing material. This trunk region allows for the expansion of the ion absorbing material without detaching the support filaments form the substrate.
US08658309B2 Dissociating agents, formulations and methods providing enhanced solubility of fluorides
The present invention provides compositions, formulations and methods providing for the effective dissolution of inorganic fluorides in solvents via incorporation of a dissociating agent component. Dissociating agents of the present invention participate in chemical reactions in solution, such as complex formation, acid-base reactions, and adduct formation reactions, that result in enhancement in the dissolution of inorganic fluorides in a range of solvent environments. Dissociating agents comprising Lewis acids, Lewis bases, anion receptors, cation receptors or combinations thereof are provided that significantly increase the extent of dissolution of a range of inorganic fluorides, particularly inorganic fluorides, such as LiF, that are highly insoluble in many solvents in the absence of the dissociating agents of the present invention.
US08658308B2 Pouch-type secondary battery with insulating member and alignment mark on case
A secondary battery may include an electrode assembly, the electrode assembly including first and second electrode plates and a separator interposed between the electrode plates; a battery case, the battery case including an accommodating part and a sealing part formed along an edge of the accommodating part, the accommodating part accommodating the electrode assembly; an insulating member attached to the sealing part, the insulating member covering and insulating the sealing part; and an alignment mark on at least one region of the sealing part, the alignment mark identifying a position on the sealing part at which a predetermined portion of the insulating member is aligned, wherein a non-insulating part of the sealing part extends past the insulating member.
US08658302B2 Battery latch structure
The present invention discloses a battery latch structure, wherein a battery slot for receiving a battery is located on the main body, a first end of said battery is latched to a first end of said slot through a first clamp structure, and a second end of said battery is latched to a second end of said slot through a second clamp structure. The second clamp structure includes a second fixed clamp located on the left and right sides of the second end of said slot, and a battery latch, a spring and two battery lock members located at the second end of said battery. The battery latch is located at the second end of the battery and may be slid upwards and downwards to be moveably connected with the two battery lock members. The spring is located between the two battery lock members. The said spring can push the two battery lock members protruding leftwards and rightwards respectively to insert into the second clamp. The said battery latch can be moved upwards by the action of outside force, to release the two battery lock members from the second clamp. The advantages of the present invention are simple in structure and convenient for operation.
US08658301B2 Portable electronic device and battery ejecting structure thereof
A battery ejecting structure is applied to a portable electronic device which comprises a housing and a battery. The battery ejecting structure comprises an ejecting element, a cover, a pushing element and an elastic element. The ejecting element is movably located in the container of the housing; the cover is connected pivotally to the housing and covers the container to be a closed state, and the cover restricts the ejecting element to move via a blocking element; the pushing element is located in the housing, and the fixed member of the ejecting element is connected to the pushing element through the housing. Wherein when the cover is rotated relative to the housing to form an open state, the blocking element disengages from the container, and the pushing element is moved by an elastic restoring force of the elastic element to unlock the battery.
US08658298B2 Laminate outer packaging storage device
A laminate-packaged electric storage device includes an outer package, an electric storage device element, and an electrolyte solution, the outer package formed by stacking and seal-tight bonding outer package films along a bonding section formed in an outer edge area of the outer package films, the electric storage device element and the electrolyte solution being held in a receiving section formed inside the outer package. A non-bonding section surrounded by the bonding section and communicating with the receiving section is formed in the outer edge area, an opening is formed through at least one outer package film, and a seal section is formed to surround the opening formed in an area of the non-bonding section, the outer package films bonded in the seal section, and the opening formed in the area of the non-bonding section at a position other than a center position.
US08658297B2 Cap assembly and secondary battery having the same
A cap assembly and a secondary battery having the same which can prevent current from flowing out of the battery by preventing contact of a broken vent member with a cap. The vent member is broken due to an internal pressure of the secondary battery greater than a predetermined level. The cap assembly includes a vent member having a plurality of notches formed in a radial direction from the center of the vent member and a plurality of reinforcement parts formed between the notches. The cap assembly may include a vent member having a plurality of notches formed between two adjacent notches so that the vent member folds when the internal pressure of the secondary battery is too great.
US08658290B2 Use of halogenated phthalocyanines
The present invention relates to the use of halogenated phthalocyanines as charge transport materials and/or as absorber materials.
US08658279B2 Porous, free-flowing hydrophobic particles loaded with aqueous fluid with compatibilizer additive
Storage tank loaded with an aqueous medium and made of porous, freely flowing particles, wherein the particles are formed from a hydrophobic polymer and the loading of said particles contains at least one particular mediator additive of the general formula (I), the use of which as an entrainer delivery agent for removing volatile components from plastics, for evenly doping intermediate plastic products and/or plastic articles with adjuvants as a soil improvement agent such as a delivery agent for a pest management agent or fertilizer
US08658277B2 Porous inorganic/organic hybrid materials with ordered domains for chromatographic separations and processes for their preparation
Porous hybrid inorganic/organic materials comprising ordered domains are disclosed. Methods of making the materials and use of the materials for chromatographic are also disclosed.
US08658275B2 Surface-treated metal plate
An easily and inexpensively producible surface-treated metal plate which uses a continuous coating facility for a surface-treated metal plate to provide at least two coating layers. A surface-treated metal plate comprised of a metal sheet on one surface or both surfaces of which two or more coating layers of different ingredients of formulation are provided, which surface-treated metal plate is characterized in that a diffusion layer is formed at an interface part between a first coating layer as a top layer and a second coating layer directly under the first coating layer, wherein the ingredients of the first coating layer and the second coating layer are mixed in the diffusion layer, and in that t/T is 0.2≦t/T≦0.8 where a film thickness of said diffusion layer is “t” and a total film thickness of said diffusion layer, said first coating layer, and said second coating layer is “T”.
US08658271B2 Supporting membranes on nanometer-scale self-assembled films
Block copolymer lithography has emerged as an alternative lithographic method to achieve large-area, high-density patterns at resolutions near or beyond the limit of conventional lithographic techniques for the formation of bit patterned media and discrete track media. In one embodiment, a structure includes a plurality of nanostructures extending upwardly from a substrate and a porous membrane extending across upper ends of the plurality of nanostructures. Other systems and methods are disclosed as well.
US08658270B2 Penetration-inhibiting material
A penetration-inhibiting material having a first component having a first layer with a first set of threads and a second layer with a second set of threads, wherein the first set of threads is oriented in a first thread direction and the second set of threads is oriented in a second thread direction, and the first thread direction is transverse to the second thread direction. The penetration-inhibiting material has a second component having a third layer and a fourth layer, wherein the third layer is a thread layer having a third set of threads and the fourth layer is a thread layer having a fourth set of threads, the third set of threads is oriented in a third thread direction and the fourth set of threads is oriented in a fourth thread direction, the third thread direction is transverse to the fourth thread direction, the third thread direction forms a first angle to the first thread direction and to the second thread direction, and the fourth thread direction forms a second angle to the first thread direction and to the second thread direction, the third set of threads and the fourth set of threads are joined to each other using at least a textile binding agent.
US08658262B2 High quality emission control coatings, emission control glazings, and production methods
The invention provides emission control coatings. The coating includes a transparent conductive film over which there is an oxygen barrier film. In some embodiments, the transparent conductive film comprises indium tin oxide and the oxygen barrier film comprises silicon nitride.
US08658258B2 Plasma treatment of substrates prior to the formation a self-assembled monolayer
An improved method for forming a self-assembled monolayer on a substrate is disclosed. The method comprises plasma treatment of the substrate prior to formation of the self-assembled monolayer.
US08658253B2 Printable coating
A primer-less coating composition for facestock comprises: a binder being a water-dispersible polymer; an ethylenically unsaturated compound which is aqueous-dispersible and miscible with or bonded to the water-dispersible polymer, wherein the ethylenically unsaturated compound is able to form a covalent bond with an ink; and a crosslinker that is suitable for binding the coating to the facestock. The coating composition may be applied to a substrate to form a printable film. A printed film having the coating may be used in a label, for example for use on a container such as a bottle.
US08658248B2 Method for atomizing material for coating processes
A method for atomizing a liquid including providing an atomizer having a liquid supply conduit having an outlet at one end, a gas supply conduit opening into a port in the liquid supply conduit upstream of the outlet, and a means for imparting vibrational energy to the atomizer. In an embodiment, the liquid supply conduit and gas supply conduit are coaxially displaced relative to one another. The method further includes flowing liquid through the liquid supply conduit to the outlet while simultaneously flowing gas through the gas supply conduit, and imparting vibrational energy to the atomizer to atomize the liquid exiting from the outlet. The introduction of gas at the port results in a spray of droplets with improved dimensional properties.
US08658245B2 Spin coat process for manufacturing a Z-directed component for a printed circuit board
A method for manufacturing a z-directed component for insertion into a mounting hole in a printed circuit board according to one example embodiment includes depositing a liquid based material onto a top surface of a rotatable plate. The top surface of the rotatable plate has at least one cavity formed thereon that defines the shape of a layer of the z-directed component. The rotatable plate is spun to level a top surface of the liquid based material in the at least one cavity. The liquid based material is cured to form the layer of the z-directed component. A conductive material is applied to at least one surface of the formed layer. The z-directed component is formed including a stack of component layers that includes the formed layer.
US08658244B2 Method of making colored multifilament high tenacity polyolefin yarns
A method of making colored multifilament ultrahigh molecular weight polyolefin yarn, including feeding at least one substantially untwisted multifilament ultrahigh molecular weight polyolefin yarn, coating the substantially untwisted multifilament yarn with a coating composition comprising colorant in a thermoplastic resin carrier, with the coating composition being adhered to the filaments of the multifilament yarn, and heating the multifilament yarn while stretching the yarn without fusing of the filaments of the multifilament yarn. The resultant yarn is a colored multifilament yarn having improved color-fastness. The thermoplastic resin has a lower melting point than the filaments of the multifilament yarn. Preferably, a plurality of the substantially untwisted multifilament ultrahigh molecular weight polyolefin yarns are processed together. Articles formed from the colored multifilament yarns may be prepared and subjected to a heating step to provide a colored surface coating of the thermoplastic resin over the article.
US08658243B2 Method for forming optical coating and optical element having such coating
A method for forming an optical coating comprising the steps of forming a fine-structure layer mainly composed of an inorganic metal oxide on the surface of an optical member, and then forming an inorganic, hard layer by a liquid-phase deposition method.
US08658238B2 Indulgent edible composition
The present invention is directed to a method of preparing an indulgent edible composition that provides an orally pleasurable eating experience similar to chocolate as the chocolate melts in the oral cavity.
US08658237B2 Anti-obesity agent comprising compound containing benzotropolone ring
The object of the present invention is to provide an anti-obesity agent which contains a tea-derived component and which is safe and does not compromise the flavor of foods and beverages.According to the present invention, a safe and palatable anti-obesity agent can be provided by incorporating a benzotropolone ring-containing compound which has tea-derived, high inhibitory activities against lipase and alfa-glucosidase. The anti-obesity agent of the present invention does not compromise the flavor of foods and beverage, has palatability, and can be used in various use applications including foods and beverages intended for health enhancement such as reduction in triglycerides.
US08658236B2 Alcoholic compositions having a lowered risk of acetaldehydemia
The present invention provides beverages and pharmaceutical compositions containing a deuterated alcohol according to Formula 1, and provides methods for their manufacture and use. The compositions of the invention are expected to ameliorate some of the negative side effects associated with the consumption of alcohol, such as hangover and facial flushing.
US08658235B2 Frozen confection
A frozen confection comprising from 1 to 15 wt % of cereal meal particles having a size of from 0.1 to 1.0 mm and from 5 to 25 wt % of sweeteners is provided. A process for manufacturing the frozen confection is also provided, the process comprising the steps of: preparing a mix comprising water, 1 to 15 wt % of a cereal meal particles having a size of from 0.1 to 1.0 mm, and 5 to 25 wt % of sweeteners; holding the mix at a temperature of at least 70° C. for at least 10 minutes; pasteurizing and optionally homogenising the mix; then freezing and preferably aerating the mix to produce the frozen confection.
US08658234B2 Method of molding a food product
A method of in-molding a food item in a package defining at least one cavity for holding the food item and having an opening for accessing the food item. Liquid food product is introduced into the at least one cavity and allowed to solidify to form a solid food product, which is then unseated.
US08658229B2 Gum slab package having insertable product retention member
A package assembly encloses a plurality of individual elongate consumable products. The package assembly includes a plurality of products aligned in a side-by-side array. The package housing enclosed the array of product. The package housing has front and back walls for supporting the products therebetween and a closeable cover for closing a product dispensing opening. The package housing further includes a frictional product retention member insertably supported within the package for frictionally retaining the array of product within the package.
US08658227B2 Botanical formulation derived from birch bark
A formulation and method of mitigation of symptoms of patients suffering from a neurocutaneous pain syndrome by topical application of the formulation. The formulation is obtained by steeping the bark of a tree from the genus Betula in an aqueous acidified solution and then subsequent filtering, packaging and sterilization.
US08658226B2 Agent having anti-Helicobacter pylori activity
The present invention provides an agent having anti-Helicobacter pylori activity that is effective for the treatment, prevention or improvement of diseases associated with Helicobacter pylori and contains as an active ingredient thereof an extract of a plant belonging to the Labiatae family. The agent having anti-Helicobacter pylori activity of the present invention has superior heat stability and allows the obtaining of elimination effects in a short period of time.
US08658223B2 Insecticidal compositions and methods of using the same
Insecticidal compositions have at least one active agent and at least one insecticide. The active agent can include perilla oil, a component found in perilla oil, or a perillaldehyde or carvone analog. The insecticide can include a pyrethrum, pyrethrin, pyrethroid, neonicotinoid, chlofenapyr, ethiprole, sulfoxoflor, carbamate, organophosphate, or organochlorine. Methods for controlling insects include contacting an insect with an effective amount of a composition described in this specification. Modified plants that produce an active agent can be contacted with an insecticide.
US08658214B2 Methods for processing microspheres
The invention provides a manufacturing method for processing polymeric microspheres which are suspended in a liquid. The invention also provides polymeric microspheres produced by the method which can be used in medical settings as tissue fillers, tissue bulking agents, embolization agents, and/or as drug delivery agents.
US08658213B2 Hydrophilic nanoparticles with functional surface groups, production and use thereof
Nanoparticles having a hydrophilic surface coatings having biological, molecular biological, biochemical and medical applications, and method for their production.
US08658211B2 Polyconjugates for in vivo delivery of polynucleotides
The present invention is directed to compounds, compositions, and methods useful for delivering polynucleotides or other cell-impermeable molecules to mammalian cells. Described are polyconjugates systems that incorporate targeting, anti-opsonization, anti-aggregation, and transfection activities into small biocompatible in vivo delivery vehicles. The use of multiple reversible or labile linkages connecting component parts provides for physiologically responsive activity modulation.
US08658210B2 Polyesteramide platform for site specific drug delivery
A therapeutic agent delivery system formed of a specific type of poly(ester amide) (PEA), a therapeutic agent, and a water miscible solvent is described herein. A method of delivering the therapeutic agent delivery system by delivering the therapeutic agent delivery system formed of a PEA polymer, a therapeutic agent, and a water miscible solvent to a physiological environment and separating the phase of the therapeutic agent delivery system to form a membrane from the polymer to contain the therapeutic agent within the physiological environment is also described. Additionally disclosed is a kit including a syringe and a therapeutic agent delivery system within the syringe.
US08658209B2 Stimulus-responsive biodegradable polymers and methods of preparation
There is presently provided a stimulus-responsive polymer comprising a biodegradable polymer backbone and a stimulus-responsive pendant group attached to the biodegradable polymer backbone, wherein the biodegradable polymer backbone comprises a poly(amino ester) or a poly(amido amine), the poly(amido amine) optionally comprising a disulfide linkage in the backbone.
US08658208B2 Coated solid preparation
A montelukast-containing coated solid preparation can be applied to one-dose package, wherein the humidity stability of montelukast or a pharmacologically acceptable salt thereof contained therein is maintained even when the preparation is unpacked. A coated solid preparation contains as an active ingredient montelukast or a pharmacologically acceptable salt thereof and is coated with a coating layer comprising polyvinyl alcohol and swelling clay, wherein the mass ratio of the above-described polyvinyl alcohol to the above-described swelling clay in the above-described coating layer is 8:2 to 3:7.
US08658204B2 Transpulmonary liposome for controlling drug arrival
An object of the present invention is to provide a liposome which is excellent in intrapulmonary delivery controllability of drugs or genes and is suited for pulmonary administration.By modifying the surface of a liposome using a terminal hydrophobized polyvinyl alcohol and/or chitosan, retention of drugs or genes encapsulated in the liposome on the surface of lung tissue and transfer of drugs or genes into lung tissue can be properly modulated, and thus in vivo behavior can be controlled.
US08658200B2 Flavoring of drug-containing chewing gums
A chewing gum comprising at least one active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) with a core onto which is applied at least one inner polymer film coating and thereafter onto which is applied at least one outer hard coating. A preferred API is nicotine. Flavoring agents may be incorporated in the core, in the at least one inner polymer film coating and/or in the at least one outer hard coating. The gums formed exhibit a long lasting effect of flavoring agent(s) and result in the domination of flavoring agents in the coating(s) over flavoring agent(s) in the core, thereby (a) avoiding problems of chemical or pharmaceutical incompatibility between an API in the core and flavoring agent(s) in the coating(s) and (b) achieving an increased control of the release of the API and of non-active excipients.
US08658198B2 Non-abusable pharmaceutical composition comprising opioids
There is provided pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment of pain comprising a pharmacologically-effective amount of an opioid analgesic, or a pharmaceutically-acceptable salt thereof, presented in particulate form upon the surfaces of carrier particles comprising a pharmacologically-effective amount of an opioid antagonist, or a pharmaceutically-acceptable salt thereof, which carrier particles are larger in size than the particles of the opioid analgesic. The compositions are also useful in prevention of opioid abuse by addicts.
US08658197B2 Disruptable medical implants with reservoir (s), and materials preparable from same
Described is a medically useful article comprising a three-dimensional body including one or more implantable substances, wherein the body defines one or more reservoirs for receiving amounts of a biocompatible wetting liquid. In certain embodiments the body is disruptable upon wetting with the biocompatible liquid to form a conformable implantable material such as a putty, paste or more flowable wetted implant material. Also described are methods for manufacturing such medical materials, and methods for using such medical materials to treat patients.
US08658185B2 Kit useful for treating tumors and lesions of the skin and the mucous membranes
The pharmaceutical preparation useful for treating a skin or mucous membrane lesion is provided. The pharmaceutical preparation including, as active ingredients, a therapeutically effective amount of trichloroacetic acid and hydrochloric acid, or trichloroacetic acid and formic acid or all three of these acids and optionally a crosslinking/fixating/preserving agent. Additional preparations are also described.
US08658181B2 Pharmaceutical composition for preventing and treating liver fibrosis or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
The present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition for preventing and treating liver fibrosis or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, comprising 50 to 90% by weight of Cordyceps sinensis mycelium powder, and 10 to 50% by weight of condensed astragalus powder.
US08658177B2 Promiscuous HER-2/Neu CD4 T cell epitopes
The present invention relates to the discovery of novel T cell epitopes of the human HER-2/Neu protein that is promiscuous for at least 25 different HLA-DR alleles. The invention also relates to compositions that contain one of the novel epitopes or a fusion peptide of such a epitope and a heterologous polypeptide. Further disclosed herein is the use of the epitopes or their fusion peptides, and compositions containing the epitopes or their fusion peptides.
US08658171B2 Humanized anti-TNFα antibodies
The present invention provides a humanized anti-TNF monoclonal antibody and the use thereof. The humanized anti-TNF monoclonal antibody significantly reduces the immunogenicity of murine-antibody while retaining the ability of antibody to recognize antigen, compared with conservative mouse chimeric antibody. Therefore, safety of the antibody in clinical applications has been improved.
US08658167B2 Methods and compositions for treatment and diagnosis of fibrosis, tumor invasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis
Provided are methodology, compositions and kits to prevent and treat diseases associated with abnormal cell proliferation, angiogenesis and fibrosis, using processed lysyl oxidase or lysyl oxidase-like protein inhibitors, LOX inhibitors and LOXL inhibitors, or synergistic combinations of such inhibitors with therapeutic agents. Provided are methods for selecting tumor invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis inhibiting agents, by contacting cells in EMT states with candidate agents and detecting changes in such states; and methods, compositions, and kits for diagnosing or monitoring diseases associated with abnormal cell proliferation, angiogenesis and fibrosis, using molecules or agents specifically recognizing processed LOX or LOXL. Provided are methods, compositions, medical devices, systems and kits for preventing or treating diseases and conditions associated with fibrosis, including pathological cardiovascular conditions and diseases, e.g., hypertension, hypertensive heart disease, myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, restenosis, liver fibrosis, kidney fibrosis, lung fibrosis, dermal scaring, keloid formation, and Alzheimer's disease, with LOX or LOXL inhibitors.
US08658166B2 Methods and materials for the diagnosis of prostate cancers
Methods for diagnosing the presence of prostate cancer in a subject are provided, such methods including detecting the levels of expression of multiple polypeptide biomarkers in a biological sample obtained from the subject and comparing the levels of expression with predetermined threshold levels. Levels of expression of at least two of the polypeptide markers that are above the predetermined threshold levels are indicative of the presence of prostate cancer in the subject. Determination of the expression levels of specific combinations of biomarkers can also be used to determine the type and/or stage of prostate cancer.
US08658164B2 Methods and materials for the diagnosis of prostate cancers
Methods for diagnosing the presence of prostate cancer in a subject are provided, such methods including detecting the levels of expression of multiple polypeptide biomarkers in a biological sample obtained from the subject and comparing the levels of expression with predetermined threshold levels. Levels of expression of at least two of the polypeptide markers that are above the predetermined threshold levels are indicative of the presence of prostate cancer in the subject. Determination of the expression levels of specific combinations of biomarkers can also be used to determine the type and/or stage of prostate cancer.
US08658163B2 Compositions and use thereof for treating symptoms of preeclampsia
A therapeutic agent for the treatment of toxemia, preeclampsia and eclampsia and a method for preparing the therapeutic agent is disclosed. The therapeutic agent is a stable pharmaceutical preparation containing, but not limited to, digestive/pancreatic enzymes. The therapeutic agent may be manufactured by a variety of encapsulation technologies. Delivery of the therapeutic agent may be made orally, through injection, by adherence of a medicated patch or by other methods. Further, a method of using the presence of chymotrypsin in the maternal GI tract as a biomarker to determine the likelihood of developing preeclampsia, a pregnancy induced hypertension, and eclampsia/toxemia is disclosed.
US08658158B2 Sensitization of chemotherapeutic agent resistant neoplastic cells with a virus
The present invention relates to a method of increasing the sensitivity of neoplastic cells to chemotherapeutic agents by using a virus, a method of treating proliferative disorders with a virus and chemotherapeutic agents, and a method for preventing a neoplasm from developing drug resistance to chemotherapeutic agents. The virus is preferably a reovirus.
US08658157B2 Selection and use of lactic acid bacteria for reducing dental caries and bacteria causing dental caries
New strains of Lactobacillus that have been selected for their capability of improved reduction the number of Streptococcus mutans in the mouth of mammals through inhibiting activity in combination with better binding to the oral mucins and dental plaque, thereby preventing, reducing or treating dental caries, and products derived from said strains, including agents for treatment or prophylaxis of caries for administration to humans.
US08658154B2 Humanized FcγR mice
Genetically modified non-human animals and methods and compositions for making and using them are provided, wherein the genetic modification comprises a deletion of the endogenous low affinity FcγR locus, and wherein the mouse is capable of expressing a functional FcRγ-chain. Genetically modified mice are described, including mice that express low affinity human FcγR genes from the endogenous FcγR locus, and wherein the mice comprise a functional FcRγ-chain. Genetically modified mice that express up to five low affinity human FcγR genes on accessory cells of the host immune system are provided.
US08658148B2 Chemically modified dendrimers
Dendrimers comprising N-acyl urea terminal moieties are described herein. The dendrimers can be used, for example, in the treatment of arthritis.
US08658142B2 Cosmetic compositions having long lasting shine
The invention relates to a cosmetic composition comprising at least one polyester that may be obtained by reacting: a tetraol containing from 4 to 10 carbon atoms; a linear or branched saturated monocarboxylic acid containing from 9 to 23 carbon atoms; a cyclic dicarboxylic acid containing from 6 to 12 carbon atoms; and an aromatic monocarboxylic acid containing from 7 to 11 carbon atoms; at least one resin chosen from hydrocarbon-based resins; at least one hyperbranched polyol compound; at least one non-volatile solvent chosen from monoalcohols; at least one co-solvent chosen from esters; at least one nonvolatile silicone oil; optionally, at least one wax; and optionally, at least one colorant, as well as to methods of using such compositions.
US08658136B2 Methods to increase transgene expression from bacterial-based delivery systems by co-expressing suppressors of the eukaryotic type I interferon response
Bacterial delivery systems with improved transgene expression are provided. The recombinant bacterial delivery systems deliver transgenes of interest and suppressors of the eukaryotic Type I interferon response to eukaryotic cells. Suppression of the eukaryotic Type I interferon response allows improved expression of the encoded transgene.
US08658135B2 Antagonists of ligands and uses thereof
The invention provides hetero-multivalent ligand binging agents (traps) for members of the TGF-β superfamily, as well as methods for making and using such constructs. In an embodiment of the invention there is provided a hetero-multivalent binding agent with affinity for a member of the TGF-β superfamily. The agent comprises the general structure I: (-linker1)k-[{-linker2--linker3f-}n-()m-(linker4-)d]h, where bd1, bd2, bd3 and bd4 are polypeptide binding domains having an affinity for different sites on the same member or for different members of the TGF-β superfamily; at least two of bd1, bd2, bd3, and bd4 are different from each other.
US08658133B2 Methods and compositions relating to alzheimer's disease
Methods and compositions relating to Alzheimer's disease are provided, including proteins that are differentially expressed in Alzheimer's disease as compared to the normal state. Further provided are methods, particularly experimental paradigms, for the identification of differential expressed proteins that are potential molecular targets for compounds to treat or prevent Alzheimer's disease. Also provided are methods for the identification and therapeutic use of compounds for the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
US08658128B2 System and method for diagnosis and treatment
This invention relates to a low cost rapid response diagnostic system to determine cortisol levels in patients selected as potential candidates for GCR (glucocorticoid receptor) antagonist therapy utilizing a GCR antagonist, such as ORG 34517. The rapid, sensitive, and inexpensive test can be used to determine patients who have non-normal cortisol production or disordered circadian rhythms as a method for selecting subjects for GCR antagonist therapy for whom it is likely to have beneficial and/or therapeutic effects, and can also be used to monitor changes in cortisol levels in response to treatment.
US08658124B1 Process for the manufacturing of ferric sulfate
A process for manufacturing ferric sulfate has the steps of introducing water into an interior of a pressure vessel, introducing an iron material into the interior of the pressure vessel, mixing the iron material and the water within the interior of the pressure vessel, adding sulfuric acid to the mixed iron material and water, agitating the iron material and the sulfuric acid and the water for a period of time so as to increase a temperature of a reaction and a pressure of the reaction within the interior of the pressure vessel, and discharging ferric sulfate from the interior of the pressure vessel. The iron material can be either hematite or magnetite. Oxygen can be introduced into the interior of the pressure vessel if the iron material is magnetite.
US08658123B2 Method for producing a coarse-grained ammonium sulfate product via crystallization and installation for operating the method
Method for the production of a coarse-grained ammonium sulphate product by crystallization and installation for carrying out the method from an ammonium sulphate solution in a DTB type crystallizer having an internal suspension circuit and a clarifying zone, from which a clarified partial flow of solution is constantly drawn off into an external circuit, is heated in a heat exchanger to dissolve the solids contained therein and is guided back as a clear solution into the lower region of the crystallizer. A fine crystal suspension flow is drawn off from the clarifying zone as a further partial flow and guided back into the internal circuit of the crystallization stage without any previous dissolution of the solid proportion contained therein.
US08658117B2 Production of ammonium phosphates
A method for production of ammonium phosphates includes providing (210) of a phosphorus-loaded water immiscible liquid phase, adding (212) of anhydrous ammonia to the water immiscible liquid phase, precipitating (214) of mono-ammonium phosphate and/or di-ammonium phosphate from the water immiscible liquid phase and extracting (218) of the precipitated mono-ammonium phosphate and/or di-ammonium phosphate from the water immiscible liquid phase. The method further includes controlling (216) of a temperature of the water immiscible liquid phase during the adding (212) and precipitating (214) to a predetermined temperature interval.
US08658116B2 Method of producing sulfur dioxide
A method of producing sulfur dioxide is provided. A feed gas stream comprising at least 5% by volume hydrogen sulfide is provided. The feed gas stream is separated into a hydrogen sulfide stream and a hydrocarbon gas stream. An oxidant stream is provided and is combusted with the hydrogen sulfide stream to produce thermal power and a combustion stream containing sulfur dioxide and steam. Sulfur dioxide is separated from the combustion stream.
US08658115B2 Reducing mercury emissions from the burning of coal
Sorbent components containing halogen, calcium, alumina, and silica are used in combination during coal combustion to produce environmental benefits. Sorbents such as calcium bromide are added to the coal ahead of combustion and other components are added into the flame or downstream of the flame, preferably at minimum temperatures to assure complete formation of the refractory structures that result in various advantages of the methods. When used together, the components reduce emissions of elemental and oxidized mercury; increase the level of Hg, As, Pb, and/or Cl in the coal ash; decrease the levels of leachable heavy metals (such as Hg) in the ash, preferably to levels below the detectable limits; and make a highly cementitious ash product.
US08658113B2 Thin film valve device and its controlling apparatus
Provided are a thin film valve device and a thin film valve control apparatus in which a hole or a channel in the body of the thin film valve device is opened and closed using the heat generated from a heat generating apparatus and the centrifugal force. The thin film valve device and the thin film valve control apparatus are applicable to, for example, a diagnostic lab-on-a-chip that can detect a trace amount of a material in a fluid, a rotatable bio-disc in which a bio chip, such as a protein chip and a DNA chip, is integrated, and the like.
US08658110B2 Fluid delivery system
Embodiments of a fluid delivery system are disclosed.
US08658104B2 Honeycomb structural body and exhaust gas conversion apparatus
A honeycomb structural body includes a honeycomb unit having a plurality of through holes defined by partition walls and arranged in a longitudinal direction of the honeycomb unit and having macro-pores having an average pore diameter approximately 0.1 μm or more and approximately 0.3 μm or less. The macro-pores have a porosity approximately 30% or more and approximately 40% or less. The honeycomb unit includes a phosphate group zeolite and an inorganic binder.
US08658102B2 Chemical analysis apparatus and chemical analysis method
A chemical analysis apparatus comprising reaction containers containing therein a substance to be analyzed; an agitating mechanism spaced from the substance to be analyzed and agitating said substance to be analyzed with a liquid in said reaction container; and, a measuring portion for measuring physical properties of the substance to be analyzed, said agitating mechanism having a sound supply portion supplying sound waves to the substance to be analyzed, wherein said sound supply portion comprises a mechanism changing, in time, intensity of ultrasonic waves to be irradiated so as to apply pulsation to a swirl flow in the reaction container.
US08658099B2 Integrated apparatus for conducting and monitoring chemical reactions
Apparatus for conducting and monitoring chemical reactions comprises a base and a thermal cycler mounted on the base. A plurality of heat-conducting receptacles are mounted on the thermal cycler and in heat-communication therewith. Each receptacle comprises an opaque body defining a bore having an open end, a first window, and a second window. A cartridge is removably mounted on the receptacles. The cartridge comprises a plurality of light-transmitting reaction vessels, and conduits connected to the reaction vessels for processing and transferring fluid. The reaction vessels are received in the bores of the receptacles through the open ends of the bores. A light emitter is mounted on the base for illuminating the reaction vessels through the first windows of the reaction vessels. A light detector is mounted on the base for selectively receiving and detecting light emitted from the reaction vessels through the second windows of the receptacles.
US08658096B2 Rack transport system
Provided is a rack transport system that horizontally slides a rack tray holding and storing a plurality of specimen containers, allowing the rack tray to be safely placed on a rack tray set section. For this purpose, a rack transport system (8) using a rack tray (10) having a rack dropout-preventing mechanism (10b) includes a rack tray set section (8A) that has a lock canceling mechanism (8i) of the rack dropout-preventing mechanism and on which the rack tray that arranges and holds a plurality of racks (9) supporting a plurality of specimen containers (9a) is placed, and a projection section (8h) serving as a lock canceling button of the rack dropout-preventing mechanism is formed at a position where the rack tray that holds and stores the plurality of racks supporting the plurality of specimen containers is slid to be able to be set in the rack tray set section.
US08658094B2 High temperature and pressure oxidation-reduction potential measuring and monitoring device for hot water systems
A device for measuring oxidation-reduction potential at operating temperature and pressure in hot water systems is disclosed and claimed. The device includes a flow-through cell, an oxidation-reduction potential probe, a temperature detector, and an external pressure-balanced reference electrode assembly. Each component of the device works in conjunction with the other components and each has electrical connections that transmit signals to a controller. The controller calculates and determines adjustments to feedwater chemistry for the hot water system.
US08658090B2 Apparatus and method for reprocessing lumened instruments
Methods and apparatus for liquid, gas, and gas plasma sterilization of items. The apparatus includes two chambers and a holder to connectorlessly secure a lumened instrument such that a first portion of the lumened instrument lies in the first chamber and a second portion of the instrument lies in the second chamber, a liquid medium contained within the two chambers, and pumping means for simultaneously increasing fluid pressure within the first chamber of said container while decreasing fluid pressure within the second chamber of the container in a reciprocating fashion. The pumping means displaces at least a total internal volume of the liquid medium through the lumen for a given highest volume of a lumened instrument during each stroke.
US08658085B2 Method for irradiating objects
The invention relates to a method for irradiating partly formed packages (10) with electron beam irradiation from at least one electron beam sterilizing device (18), characterized in that it comprises: providing at least one partly formed package (10) to be irradiated in a gaseous environment, and exposing the gaseous environment to a pre-determined pressure regulation cycle and exposing the partly formed package (10) to irradiation at least during a portion of said pressure regulation cycle. The invention also relates to a device for realizing said method. The invention further relates irradiation of a packaging material web.
US08658077B2 Method of crosslinking carboxyl-containing polymers using oligoamines
Oligoamines, such as a compound of the formula H2N(CH2CH2NH)nH in which n is an integer of 2-10, crosslink polymers containing carboxyl functionality unexpectedly faster than conventional diamines such as 1,6-diaminohexane. The combination of an ethylene-acrylic acid copolymer with an oligoamine of this type is useful for, among other things, the production of crosslinked wire and cable insulation.
US08658076B2 Process and freeform fabrication system for producing a three-dimensional object
The present invention provides a process for producing at least one three-dimensional object, comprising: providing a material to be solidified; delivering electromagnetic radiation and/or synergistic stimulation in a pattern or an image to a building region for solidifying said material; wherein said delivering of electromagnetic radiation and/or synergistic stimulation is performed selectively to a defined area or volume of said material to be solidified; and wherein an energy density of electromagnetic radiation and/or synergistic stimulation is controlled and/or adjusted in a border region of said pattern or image and/or is varied in border regions of patterns or images of different building regions of said material, to have an energy density different from the building region other than said border region(s), wherein the controlling and/or adjustment is dependent on, alone or in combination: (a) intensity of electromagnetic radiation and/or synergistic stimulation delivered to said defined area or volume of said material to be solidified; (b) total shape or contour shape of said defined area or volume of said material to be solidified; (c) size of said defined area or volume of said material to be solidified; and (d) material to be solidified. A device is provided likewise.
US08658075B2 Molding apparatus
Described herein is a mold. The mold includes a first mold half and a second mold half. A molding cavity is definable between the first mold half and the second mold half within which a molded article is moldable. The mold also includes a core configured to form a seal on the molded article. The first mold half and the second mold half are configured to remain in a mold closed configuration with molding and stripping of the molded article.
US08658074B2 Automatic elastomer extrusion apparatus and method
The present invention relates to an automatic elastomer extrusion apparatus and method. An apparatus 400 for in-situ extrusion of an elastomeric coating 410 on a profiled helical surface 450 can include a template (100, 200) forming a gap between the profiled helical surface 450 and an adjacent profiled helical surface (102, 202) of a template (100, 200) itself to extrude an elastomer therethrough. A tracking mechanism 302 and/or carriage 300 can allow a template to follow the contours of the profiled helical surface 350. The apparatus can include means for providing relative movement between the profiled helical surface and the template. The apparatus (500, 600) can include a cleaning module (502, 602), an adhesive application module (504, 604), an elastomer deposition module (506, 606), and/or a curing module (508, 608). Each module can further include a template (100, 200) and/or a tracking mechanism 302.
US08658072B2 Support gasket for use in a concrete mold for vertically forming concrete panels
A support gasket for use with a concrete panel mold system comprises an inner stiffener bar and engagement structure, attached to or formed integrally with the stiffening bar. The engagement structure is operable to engage an adjacent material. A pliable gasket material is disposed about the inner stiffening bar and is positively engaged with the engagement structure to secure the gasket material to the stiffening bar.
US08658071B2 Method for lining a pipe or elbow
A method for enabling a lining (14) to be applied to a pipe elbow or bend C comprises the steps of connecting a tie member (12) to an end of a flexible elongate mandrel (1), drawing the tie member through the elbow or bend so as to draw the mandrel therethrough and locate opposing ends of the mandrel adjacent to opposing respective ends of the elbow or bend, and securing the mandrel ends in relation to the respective ends of the elbow or bend. The mandrel can be adapted to the elbow or bend by locating the elbow or bend in a given orientation and deriving a profile S of the elbow or bend while in that orientation, removing the elbow or bend and then locating the mandrel in the given orientation, and adjusting the mandrel in relation to the profile of the elbow or bend to adapt it thereto.
US08658070B2 Process for preparing multilayer rotomoulded articles
This invention relates to the field of multilayer articles prepared by rotational molding with a robotized rotomolding machine wherein the mold is under direct heating.
US08658069B2 Method for producing shrink films
The present invention relates to a process for producing shrink films comprising: A) from 20 to 90% by weight of a biodegradable, aliphatic-aromatic polyester and B) from 10 to 80% by weight of one or more polymers selected from the group consisting of: polylactic acid, polypropylene carbonate, polycaprolactone, polyhydroxyalkanoate, chitosan, gluten, and one or more aliphatic/aromatic polyesters, such as polybutylene succinate, polybutylene succinate adipate, or polybutylene succinate sebacate, or polybutylene terephthalate-co-adipate; and C) from 0 to 2% by weight of a compatibilizer, where a blow-up ratio smaller than or equal to 4:1 is selected.
US08658068B2 Touch fastener products
A touch fastener including an elongated base having multiple segments connected by articulable joints. Each segment has an upper surface, a lower surface, and a plurality of touch fastener elements extending from the lower surface of the base. A flexible barrier extends across at least one articulable joint between adjacent base segments. The fastener may include a magnetically attractable material disposed along a center region of the upper surface of the base. The fastener base may define a pair of first and second notches in opposite longitudinal edges of the base at the articulable joint to allow bending of the base. The base may also define a slit extending through the base from a longitudinal edge thereof at the articulable joint.
US08658067B2 Apparatuses and methods for the deposition of microfibers and nanofibers on a substrate
Described herein are apparatuses and methods of creating fibers, such as microfibers and nanofibers. The methods discussed herein employ centrifugal forces to transform material into fibers. Apparatuses that may be used to create fibers are also described. Embodiments described herein relate to apparatuses and methods for the deposition of fibers onto substrates.
US08658064B2 Compound semiconductors and their application
Disclosed are new compound semiconductors which may be used for solar cells or as thermoelectric materials, and their application. The compound semiconductor may be represented by a chemical formula: InxMyCo4-m-aAmSb12-n-zXnTez, where M is at least one selected from the group consisting of Ca, Sr, Ba, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Cu, Zn, Ag, Cd, Sc, Y, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb and Lu; A is at least one selected from the group consisting of Fe, Ni, Ru, Rh, Pd, Ir and Pt; X is at least one selected from the group consisting of Si, Ga, Ge and Sn; 0
US08658063B2 Compound semiconductors and their application
Disclosed are new compound semiconductors which may be used for solar cells or as thermoelectric materials, and their application. The compound semiconductor may be represented by a chemical formula: InxMyCo4-m-aAmSb12-n-z-bXnTez, where M is at least one selected from the group consisting of Ca, Sr, Ba, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Cu, Zn, Ag, Cd, Sc, Y, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb and Lu; A is at least one selected from the group consisting of Fe, Ni, Ru, Rh, Pd, Ir and Pt; X is at least one selected from the group consisting of Si, Ga, Ge and Sn; 0
US08658060B2 Liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device having the same
A liquid crystal composition including a first neutral liquid crystal, a second neutral liquid crystal, a first polar liquid crystal, a second polar liquid crystal, and a third polar liquid crystal. A liquid crystal display device includes a backlight unit and a liquid crystal display panel to form an image using light provided by the backlight unit. The liquid crystal display panel includes a first base substrate, an opposing second base substrate, and the liquid crystal composition disposed between the first and second base substrates.
US08658057B2 Liquid crystal polyester resin composition
A liquid crystal polyester resin composition for camera modules is used, the composition including, based on 100 parts by mass of the composition as a whole, (A) 49.5 to 69.5 parts by mass of a liquid crystal polyester, (B) 30.0 to 50.0 parts by mass of an irregular form or spherical powder having a Mohs hardness of 5 or higher and a primary particle diameter of 5 μm or less, and (C) 0.5 to 5.0 parts by mass of carbon black. The use of the resin composition allows a reduction in the amount of dust generated (particles falling off) during the production of the camera, the use of the camera, and the operation of the camera modules. The resin composition has high surface hardness, is excellent in balance between heat resistance, stiffness, moldability, and resistance to falling of particles off a surface, and causes no malfunction during autofocus control.
US08658055B2 Solid-state hydrogen fuel with polymer matrix and fabrication methods thereof
Solid-state hydrogen fuel with a polymer matrix and fabrication methods thereof are presented. The solid-state hydrogen fuel includes a polymer matrix, and a crushed mixture of a solid chemical hydride and a solid-state catalyst uniformly dispersed in the polymer matrix. The fabrication method for the solid-state hydrogen fuel includes crushing and mixing a solid chemical hydride and a solid-state catalyst in a crushing/mixing machine, and adding the polymer matrix into the mixture of the solid chemical hydride and the solid-state catalyst to process a flexible solid-state hydrogen fuel. Moreover, various geometric and/or other shapes may be formed and placed into suitable vessels to react with a particular liquid and provide a steady rate of hydrogen release.
US08658054B2 Mixture for preventing surface stains
In order to achieve the object of providing a mixture by means of which, in particular, sintered moldings can be obtained that are virtually free of surface stains produced by soot particles, a mixture is proposed which comprises at least one pressing aid and at least one additive, wherein the additive is selected from a group of substances which have releasable carbon dioxide.
US08658053B2 Etching composition for metal material and method for manufacturing semiconductor device by using same
Disclosed is an etchant composition employed for selectively etching a metallic material in production of a semiconductor device, which is an aqueous solution containing a fluorine compound, and a chelating agent having, in the molecular structure thereof, a phosphorus oxo-acid as a functional group; or is an aqueous solution containing a fluorine compound, a chelating agent having, in the molecular structure thereof, a phosphorus oxo-acid as a functional group, and an inorganic acid and/or an organic acid. Also disclosed is a method for producing a semiconductor device employing the etchant composition.
US08658047B2 Additive dispersing filter and method
A method for dispersing an additive from an additive cartridge disposed in a housing of an oil filter is provided herein, the method includes using stagnation pressure to disperse the additive from the additive cartridge; and regulating a flow rate of the additive from the additive cartridge by restricting an inlet opening of an outlet tube of the additive cartridge.
US08658044B2 Stormwater filtration apparatus, system and method
A stormwater filter cartridge includes a housing with internal filter medium disposed along a flow path between a water inlet and a filtered water outlet. A solid wall float tube in a drainage space has an open lower end and open upper end and is movable between a lowered position and a raised position. As the housing fills, water level in the housing rises to cause the solid wall float tube to move to the raised position and a negative pressure draws fluid through the filter medium. As water level outside the filter cartridge drops, air enters the housing and causes the solid wall float tube to drop to the lowered position, and filtered water in a fluid reservoir backflows through the filter medium while air enters the housing by passing upward through the solid wall float tube so as to enhance rate of backflow.
US08658043B2 Water treatment system and method
A water treatment system provides treated water to a point of use by removing at least a portion of any hardness-causing species contained in water from a water source, such as municipal water, well water, brackish water and water containing foulants. The water treatment system typically receives water from the water source or a point of entry and purifies the water containing at least some undesirable species before delivering the treated water to a point of use. The water treatment system has a pressurized reservoir system in line with an electrochemical device such as an electrodeionization device. The water treatment system can have a controller for adjusting or regulating at least one operating parameter of the treatment system or a component of the water treatment system. The electrochemical device can be operated at a low current and low flow rate to minimize water splitting or polarization, which minimizes scale formation.
US08658041B2 Sorbent fiber compositions and methods of using the same
The various embodiments of the present invention relate generally to sorbent fiber compositions. More particularly, various embodiments of the present invention are directed towards sorbent fibers for pressure swing and temperature swing adsorption processes. Various embodiments of the present invention comprise a sorbent composition, comprising a fiber comprising a plurality of tortuous pathways; and a sorbent material, wherein the sorbent material is in fluid communication with at least a portion of the plurality of tortuous pathways. Aspects of the present invention comprise compositions, devices and methods of using sorbent fiber compositions.
US08658038B2 PH stable chromatographic media using templated multilayer organic/inorganic grafting
An advanced silica gel sorbent for use in chromatographic separations that has been chemically modified by surface polycondensation of a trifunctional and/or difunctional organosilane. The chromatographic media exhibits a wider pH range and improved pH stability as compared to other silica gel based sorbents, while retaining all other positive aspects attributed to silica gel based sorbents. A method of forming the advanced silica gel sorbent by Templated Multilayer Inorganic/Organic Grafting.
US08658029B2 Dry, stackable tailings and methods for producing the same
Methods for preparing solvent-dry, stackable tailings. The methods may include a primary leaching or extraction process that separates most of the bitumen from a material comprising bitumen and produces first solvent-wet tailings. The first solvent-wet tailings are washed with a second solvent that removes the first solvent from the tailings. Second solvent remaining in the tailings is removed to thereby produce solvent-dry, stackable tailings.
US08658027B2 Integrated hydrotreating and oxidative desulfurization process
A system and process for desulfurizing a hydrocarbon feed stream containing organosulfur compounds is provided. In general, the system includes a conventional hydrotreating unit through the high pressure cold or hot separator. Aqueous oxidant and an oxidative catalyst are mixed with the hydrotreated hydrocarbon effluent from the high pressure cold or hot separator, and oxidative desulfurization reactions occur in the low pressure separation zone, thereby minimizing or eliminating the requirement of additional oxidative desulfurization reactors.
US08658025B2 Biomass conversion process
Biomass is used as a co-feed for a heavy petroleum oil coking process to improve the operation of the coking process and to utilize biomaterial for the production of transportation fuels. The coking process may be a delayed coking process or a fluidized bed coking process and in each case, the presence of the biomass will decrease the coke drying time so reducing coke handling problems in the unit besides forming a superior coke product. In the case of a fluidized bed coking process using a gasifier for the coke, the addition of an alkali metal salt improves the operation of the gasifier.
US08658024B2 Catalyst and a method for cracking hydrocarbons
The invention discloses a catalyst and a method for cracking hydrocarbons. The catalyst comprises, calculated by dry basis, 10˜65 wt % ZSM-5 zeolite, 0˜60 wt % clay, 15˜60 wt % inorganic oxide binder, 0.5˜15 wt % one or more metal additives selected from the metals of Group VIIIB and 2˜25 wt % P additive, in which the metal additive is calculated by metal oxide and the P additive is calculated by P2O5. The method for cracking hydrocarbons using this catalyst increases the yield of FCC liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and the octane number of FCC gasoline, as well as it increases the concentration of propylene in LPG dramatically.
US08658023B2 Process for cracking heavy hydrocarbon feed
A hydrocarbon feed is passed to a first zone of a vaporization unit to separate a first vapor stream and a first liquid stream. The first liquid stream is passed to a second zone of the vaporization unit and contacted with a counter-current steam to produce a second vapor stream and a second liquid stream. The first vapor stream and the second vapor stream are cracked in the radiant section of the steam cracker to produce a cracked effluent. The second liquid stream is catalytically cracked to produce a cracked product. The cracked product is distilled to produce an overhead stream, a light cycle oil, and a heavy cycle oil. The light cycle oil is reacted with hydrogen in the presence of a catalyst to produce a hydrotreated light cycle oil. The hydrotreated light cycle oil and the overhead stream are fed to the vaporization unit.
US08658021B2 Multi-stage reforming process to produce high octane gasoline
The present invention relates to a multistage reforming process to produce a high octane product. A naphtha boiling range feedstock is processed in a multi-stage reforming process, in which the process involves at least 1) a penultimate stage for reforming the naphtha feedstock to produce a penultimate effluent 2) a final stage for further reforming at least a portion of the penultimate effluent 3) a regeneration step for the final stage catalyst. The severity of the penultimate stage can be increased during final stage catalyst regeneration in order to maintain the target RON of the reformate product and avoid reactor downtime.
US08658019B2 Process for cracking heavy hydrocarbon feed
A process for cracking a heavy hydrocarbon feed comprising a vaporization step, a coking step, a hydroprocessing step, and a steam cracking step is disclosed.
US08658014B2 Electrocoagulation for removal of dissolved naphthenic acids from water
A method of reducing naphthenic acids in a wastewater stream. The method begins by processing the wastewater stream to produce a treated wastewater stream with an electrocoagulation device to induce flocculation of the naphthenic acids. The reduction of the naphthenic acids in the wastewater stream occurs from separating flocculated naphthenic acids to produce the treated wastewater stream.
US08658013B2 Sensor and sensing method
A sensor includes an oxygen pump cell; an oxygen pump chamber; an emf cell; a reference chamber providing a fluid connection to the reference gas; gas channels in fluid communication with the pump and emf electrodes, the reference gas comprising reformate produced by a fuel reformer fueled by an air-fuel gas mixture having an air-fuel ratio; a reformer electronic control module; a sensor electronic control module; a heater; a temperature sensor disposed in communication with the heater and the sensor control module for maintaining the sensor at a desired operating temperature; a closed loop controlled operation amplifier in electrical communication with the sensor, whereby the oxygen pump cell provides sufficient oxygen ions to oxidize an incoming diffusion-limiting fuel flux to the emf cell and maintain a constant emf at the emf cell, and wherein a current value represents an equivalent to the air-fuel ratio of the air-fuel gas mixture.
US08658010B2 Filtered cathodic arc deposition method and apparatus
An apparatus for the application of coatings in a vacuum comprising a plasma duct surrounded by a magnetic deflecting system communicating with a first plasma source and a coating chamber in which a substrate holder is arranged off of an optical axis of the plasma source, has at least one deflecting electrode mounted on one or more walls of the plasma duct. In one embodiment an isolated repelling or repelling electrode is positioned in the plasma duct downstream of the deflecting electrode where the tangential component of a deflecting magnetic field is strongest, connected to the positive pole of a current source which allows the isolated electrode current to be varied independently and increased above the level of the anode current. The deflecting electrode may serve as a getter pump to improve pumping efficiency and divert metal ions from the plasma flow. In a further embodiment a second arc source is activated to coat the substrates while a first arc source is activated, and the magnetic deflecting system for the first arc source is deactivated to confine plasma to the cathode chamber but permit electrons to flow into the coating chamber for plasma immersed treatment of the substrates. A load lock shutter may be provided between the plasma duct and the coating chamber further confine the plasma from the first arc source.
US08658009B2 Thin film transistor having a barrier layer as a constituting layer and Cu-alloy sputtering target used for sputter film formation of the barrier layer
This Cu alloy sputtering target includes, in terms of atomic percent: Al: 1% to 10%; and Ca: 0.1% to 2%, with the balance being Cu and 1% or less of inevitable impurities. This thin film transistor includes: a gate electrode layer joined to the surface of a glass substrate through an adhesion layer; a gate insulating layer; a Si semiconductor layer; an n-type Si semiconductor layer; a barrier layer; a wire layer composed of a drain electrode layer and a source electrode layer, both of which are mutually divided; a passivation layer; and a transparent electrode layer, wherein the barrier layer is formed by sputtering under an oxidizing atmosphere using the Cu alloy sputtering target.
US08658004B2 Vapor-barrier vacuum isolation system
A system includes a collimated beam source within a vacuum chamber, a condensable barrier gas, cooling material, a pump, and isolation chambers cooled by the cooling material to condense the barrier gas. Pressure levels of each isolation chamber are substantially greater than in the vacuum chamber. Coaxially-aligned orifices connect a working chamber, the isolation chambers, and the vacuum chamber. The pump evacuates uncondensed barrier gas. The barrier gas blocks entry of atmospheric vapor from the working chamber into the isolation chambers, and undergoes supersonic flow expansion upon entering each isolation chamber. A method includes connecting the isolation chambers to the vacuum chamber, directing vapor to a boundary with the working chamber, and supersonically expanding the vapor as it enters the isolation chambers via the orifices. The vapor condenses in each isolation chamber using the cooling material, and uncondensed vapor is pumped out of the isolation chambers via the pump.
US08658002B2 System for sputtering and method thereof
A sputtering method includes receiving etch time information for a first substrate detected in a dry etching process, calculating a deposition time for a second substrate from the etch time information for the first substrate, and executing sputtering for the second substrate based the calculated deposition time. The thickness of the thin film deposited on the substrate in the sputter device may be uniformly maintained by using etch end point information detected in an end point detection (EPD) device. A sputtering system comprises a sputter device for executing a sputtering process for depositing a thin film on a substrate by a sputtering method, an EPD device for generating EPD information including etch time information for the substrate for a calculation of a deposition time during which the thin film is deposited, and a controller for calculating a deposition time by using the EPD information, and for controlling the sputter device based on the calculated deposition time.
US08658001B2 Method and control system for depositing a layer
A method and control system are provided for depositing a layer in a sputter-deposition system having a target cathode. A first dependence relationship of a deposition rate of the layer on an operating parameter, selected from cathode voltage, cathode current, and cathode power, is provided prior to deposition of the layer. A second dependence relationship of the operating parameter on time is measured during deposition of the layer, while a different operating parameter, also selected from cathode voltage, cathode current, and cathode power, is held substantially constant. On the basis of the first and second dependence relationships, a deposition time for the layer is dynamically determined during deposition of the layer.
US08657994B2 System and method for improved epitaxial lift off
An apparatus, system and method for performing ELO are disclosed. Device assemblies are contemporaneously etched in a stacked arrangement. Each device assembly may be placed in a respective tray, where the trays are overlapped and spaced apart from one another. In this manner, more device assemblies can be etched per unit area compared to conventional systems. Further, by stacking device assemblies during etching, the yield can be improved and/or the cost of the etch tank and associated hardware can be reduced.
US08657992B2 Method and apparatus for layer bonding of display assembly
A method and apparatus for the bonding of one or more material layers to a display panel which yields a resulting bonded assembly which is transparent and substantially free of optical defects such as entrapped dirt and air bubbles. During the bonding process of the present disclosure, a moving dispensing probe, or needle, dispenses a liquid bonding material into an air gap between the surfaces to be bonded in a manner which continuously touches (wets) each surface simultaneously. By simultaneously wetting each surface, and by dispensing the liquid bonding material in a predetermined pattern between the surfaces, the introduction of entrapped dirt and the formation of air bubbles is prevented as the two mating surfaces are subsequently pressed together and the adhesive is cured.
US08657982B2 Method for fabricating a proximity sensing module
The steps of a method for fabricating a proximity sensing module that is adapted to be attached to a mobile device, include: (a) patterning an upper conductive film to form a patterned conductive film which includes an upper connective pad that is adapted to be electrically connected to a respective contact on a circuit board of the mobile device, and an induced circuit pattern that is electrically connected to the upper connective pad; (b) adhering an adhesive sheet to the patterned conductive film; and (c) forming a through hole in the adhesive sheet such that the upper connective pad is exposed from the through hole.
US08657974B1 Gas generator
A gas generator 10 includes an auto-ignition/booster composition 212 that contains a metal chlorate such as potassium chlorate as an oxidizer, a carboxylic acid such as DL-tartaric acid as a primary fuel, a secondary oxidizer such as strontium nitrate, and if desired, a secondary fuel such as 5-aminotetrazole. The auto-ignition/booster composition 212 and a separate provision of ammonium nitrate or phase stabilized ammonium nitrate 228 are provided within a single combustion/decomposition chamber 222 for the production of gas, upon actuation of the gas generator 10. Vehicle occupant protection systems 180, containing the gas generator 10, are also provided.
US08657973B2 Magnesium-based alloy wire and method of its manufacture
Magnesium-based alloy wire excelling in strength and toughness, its method of manufacture, and springs in which the magnesium-based alloy wire is utilized are made available. The magnesium-based alloy wire contains, in mass %, 0.1 to 12.0% Al, and 0.1 to 1.0% Mn, and is provided with the following constitution. Diameter d that is 0.1 mm or more and 10.0 mm or less; length L that is 1000d or more; tensile strength that is 250 MPa or more; necking-down rate that is 15% or more; and elongation that is 6% or more. Such wire is produced by draw-forming it at a working temperature of 50° C. or more, and by heating it to a temperature of 100° C. or more and 300° C. or less after the drawing process has been performed.
US08657971B2 Brake disk excellent in temper softening resistance and toughness
A brake disk excellent in temper softening resistance and toughness comprising, by mass, 0.1% or less of C, 1.0% or less of Si, 2.0% or less of Mn, 10.5% to 15.0% of Cr, and 0.1% or less of N, the remainder being Fe and unavoidable impurities, such that the following inequalities are satisfied: 5Cr+10Si+15Mo+30Nb−9Ni−5Mn−3Cu−225N−270C<45 (1) and 0.03≦{C+N−(13/92)Nb}≦0.09 (2) wherein Cr, Si, Mo, Nb, Ni, Mn, Cu, N, and C each represent the content of the corresponding elements on a mass percent basis, and having a martensitic structure having prior-austenite grains with an average diameter of 8 to less than 15 μm.
US08657968B2 Grain-oriented electrical steel sheet and method of manufacturing the same
This method of manufacturing a grain-oriented electrical steel sheet includes, between a cold rolling process and a winding process, a groove formation process of irradiating the surface of a silicon steel sheet with a laser beam multiple times at predetermined intervals in a sheet passing direction, over an area from one end edge to the other end edge, in a sheet width direction of the silicon steel sheet, thereby forming a groove along a locus of the laser beam.
US08657966B2 Combinatorial approach to the development of cleaning formulations for glue removal in semiconductor applications
Embodiments of the current invention describe cleaning solutions to clean the surface of a photomask, methods of cleaning the photomask using at least one of the cleaning solutions, and combinatorial methods of formulating the cleaning solutions. The cleaning solutions are formulated to preserve the optical properties of the photomask, and in particular, of a phase-shifting photomask.
US08657964B2 Method of metering active substances in a dishwasher
A method for dispensing a liquid or pasty cleaning agent and a liquid or pasty bleaching agent into a wash tub of a household dishwasher that includes a housing and a dispensing system disposed in the housing. The dispensing system separately stores and discharges the cleaning agent and bleaching agent. The method includes providing the dispensing system with respective reservoirs for each of the cleaning agent and the bleaching agent that have different capacities from each other. Each of the capacities are larger than needed for a single wash cycle. A first quantity of the cleaning agent and a second quantity of the bleaching agent are dispensed during a wash cycle, and the ratio of the dispensed quantities corresponds to the ratio of the capacities of the respective reservoirs.
US08657961B2 Method for UV based silylation chamber clean
Embodiments of the invention generally provide methods for cleaning a UV processing chamber. In one embodiment, the method includes flowing an oxygen-containing gas through a plurality of passages formed in a UV transparent gas distribution showerhead and into a processing region located between the UV transparent gas distribution showerhead and a substrate support disposed within the thermal processing chamber, exposing the oxygen-containing gas to UV radiation under a pressure scheme comprising a low pressure stage and a high pressure stage to generate reactive oxygen radicals, and removing unwanted residues or deposition build-up from exposed surfaces of chamber components presented in the thermal processing chamber using the reactive oxygen radicals.
US08657959B2 Apparatus for atomic layer deposition on a moving substrate
An apparatus for atomic layer deposition of a material on a moving substrate comprises a conveying arrangement for moving a substrate along a predetermined planar or curved path of travel and a coating bar having at least one precursor delivery channel. The precursor delivery channel conducts a fluid containing a material to be deposited on a substrate toward the path of travel. When in use, a substrate movable along the path of travel defines a gap between the outlet end of the precursor delivery channel and the substrate. The gap defines an impedance Zg to a flow of fluid from the precursor delivery channel. A flow restrictor is disposed within the precursor delivery channel that presents a predetermined impedance Zfc to the flow therethrough. The restrictor is sized such that the impedance Zfc is at least five (5) times, and more preferably at least fifteen (15) times, the impedance Zg. The impedance Zfc has a friction factor f. The restrictor in the precursor delivery channel is sized such that the impedance Zfc has a friction factor f that is less than 100, and preferably less than 10.
US08657950B2 Inorganic material board
An inorganic material board, which is a cured mat formed by dehydrating a slurry including 30 to 53 wt % of blast furnace slag, 2 to 5 wt % of gypsum having an average particle size of 200 to 2000 μm, 5 to 11 wt % of alkaline material, 5 to 15 wt % of reinforcing fibers, and 31 to 50 wt % of inorganic admixture with respect to a total solid content, and in which a weight ratio of the blast furnace slag to the gypsum to the alkaline material is 1:0.05 to 0.15:0.15 to 0.35. It is desirable that the blast furnace slag has a specific surface area of 3000 to 5000.
US08657948B2 Modified bentonites for advanced foundry applications
Methods of reducing the permeability of a subterranean formation to aqueous-based fluids using a water-soluble relative permeability modifier that comprises a hydrophobically modified polymer, wherein the hydrophobically modified polymer is a reaction product of: a hydrophilic polymer that comprises a polymer selected from the group consisting of a polyvinylamine, a poly(vinylamine/vinyl alcohol), and an alkyl acrylate polymer; and, a hydrophobic compound comprising at least one alkyl chain having a carbon chain length between about 4 and about 22 carbons. The water-soluble relative permeability modifier may be placed within a subterranean drilling operation such that the water-soluble relative permeability modifier attaches onto surfaces within the subterranean formation to effect permeability of aqueous fluids.
US08657945B2 Sheet-fed offset printing inks and varnishes comprising new solvents
An offset printing varnish, comprising a solvent, is provided. The solvent comprises at least one triglyceride with saturated monocarboxylic acid moieties, which solvent is preferably food safe.
US08657942B2 Trap device
A trap device includes means for separating a liquid compound from a waste stream exhaust from a process chamber, means for collecting the liquid compound separated from the waste stream, means for selectively isolating the collected liquid compound from the waste stream, and means for evaporating the collected liquid compound to return the compound in gaseous form to the waste stream. This can enable a volatile liquid to be collected at a defined location, isolated from the waste stream, and, when so desired, returned to the waste stream in the form of a gas for subsequent abatement.
US08657941B2 Dust suppression apparatus
A dust suppression apparatus comprising: (a) a turntable; (b) an engine; (c) a water mist blower comprising an air conduit, a plurality of water nozzles positioned so as to supply a spray of water to the air conduit, and a fan positioned so as to supply a stream of air through the air conduit, the water mist blower and the engine mounted on the turntable, the turntable adapted to permit the air conduit to be rotated horizontally, and the air conduit mounted so as to permit the air conduit to tilt vertically; (d) a water conduit adapted to supply pressurized water to the plurality of water nozzles; (e) a belt drive connected to the engine and adapted to supply power to the fan, and (f) a constant velocity joint connecting the belt drive to the fan.
US08657937B2 Dust collector
Each protrusion (42) of a first electrode (40) is formed to have a long plate-like shape extending across a plurality of grid holes (46) of the first electrode (40). Each grid hole (56) of a second electrode (50) is formed to have an elongate shape extending to conform to each corresponding one of the protrusions (42) of the first electrode (40). Protrusions (52) of the second electrode (50) are arranged in the longitudinal direction at end portions (54a) on the long sides of the respective grid holes (56) of the second electrode (50), so as to conform to the grid holes (46) of the first electrode (40).
US08657934B2 Cyclone for separating sticky particles from gas streams
A cyclone for separating sticky particles from gas streams includes an inlet duct having an end in a direction of a particle outlet. The end has a flow cross-section including a triangular expansion that is formed laterally by a vertical of a cylindrical outer wall of the cyclone and by art outer boundary of the cyclone. An outer angle of inclination between the vertical and the outer boundary, proceeding from the end of the inlet duct, is reduced from 30° to 0° in a flow direction of gas streams. An immersion tube is disposed eccentrically in a direction of the inlet duct.
US08657933B2 Powder coating system with easily cleanable cyclone
A powder cyclone separator for use in a powder coating system is formed in two separate and separable sections. An upper section is mounted on a first frame and remains stationary. A lower section is mounted on a second frame that is movable laterally away from the first frame so that an operator has more ready access to clean interior surfaces of the upper section. Optionally, actuators may be provided to raise and lower the cyclone lower section with respect to the cyclone upper section. Optional alignment means are presented for aligning the cyclone upper and lower sections. A control mechanism may be mounted on the second frame which includes a switch that is operable to raise and lower the lower section with respect to the upper section. This design allows an operator to see and verify that virtually all internal surfaces of the cyclone have been cleaned.
US08657932B2 Cyclone separator and separation method
A separator comprises a separation chamber (1) with at least one inlet (11a) in its upper part, a solids outlet (12) in its lower part and two outlet pipes (2 and 3) for fractions of gas. Also described is a method which the separator uses, with the fractions of gas being sucked out in two separation zones generated inside the chamber, one with reverse flow and the other with unidirectional flow.
US08657928B2 Versatile compact air precleaner, air cleaning method and disposable air filter cartridge for air precleaner
A versatile compact air precleaner, air cleaning method and disposable air filter cartridge for air precleaner for separating heavier-than-air particulate debris from debris laden air to provide a clean airflow, wherein a flow path for air passing through a separator chamber of the air precleaner is retroflexed en route to the outlet. A plurality of independently rotatably adjustable housing sections of a housing provide utility with multiple clean air outlet configurations, freedom of direction of ejection of particulate debris from the ejector ports, different inlet configurations, mounting of the precleaner from different sides, accommodation of different sizes of filters, and different clean airflow rate capabilities. A separator chamber end section including the ejector ports is connected to the filter as a removable, disposable air filter cartridge to obviate ejector port clogging with change of filters.
US08657919B2 System and method for separating high molecular weight gases from a combustion source
High molecular weight (HMW) gases are separated from an exhaust gas of a combustion source using a blower and an interior vent within the exhaust stack. The interior vent includes a vent wall having a top portion attached to the interior surface of the exhaust stack along the entire inner perimeter of the exhaust stack and a lower portion that extends downward into the exhaust stack to form an annular space or gap between the vent wall and the interior surface of the exhaust stack, and at least one opening in the interior surface of the exhaust stack between the top and bottom portions of the vent wall. The blower creates a tangential flow of the exhaust gas with sufficient centrifugal force to concentrate substantially all of the HMW gases along the inner surface of the exhaust stack. A transfer pipe removes the HMW gases from the interior vent.
US08657918B2 Cyclic adsorption process using centrifugal machines
A cyclic adsorption process is provided having pressurization and depressurization steps and driven by one or more centrifugal machines operating under acceleration and deceleration conditions wherein the deceleration rate of the machine is controlled to minimize power consumption and maximize the efficiency of the process. The operating speed of the centrifugal machine during deceleration is matched to the measured ratio pressure conditions so that the centrifugal machine arrives at its minimum operating speed near the point required to begin acceleration.
US08657914B2 Exhaust gas purifying filter
There is provided an exhaust gas purifying filter, which includes an inflow surface into which exhaust gas including particulate matter flows, an exhaust surface from which purified gas is exhausted, and a filter substrate which is constructed of a porous body, the filter substrate including a porous partition and a gas passage which is enclosed by the porous partition, a porous film which includes silicon carbide is provided on a surface of the porous partition, and in a pore diameter distribution of the porous film, pores with the pore diameter of 0.01 μm or more and 3.0 μm or less are 70% or more of total volume of the pores, and pores with the pore diameter of 0.01 μm or more and 0.3 μm or less are 5% or more and 90% or less of total volume of the pores.
US08657912B2 Dust collecting structure for air-cooling electric apparatus and electric apparatus having the same
A dust collecting structure for an air-cooling electric apparatus includes a plurality of first vortex generating members which are disposed at a predetermined interval in a case and form a plurality of suction inlets; and a plurality of second vortex generating members which are disposed in an inner direction of the case and are spaced a predetermined distance apart from the suction inlets, wherein each of the first vortex generating members projects inside the case and has a shape that allows the air, which is sucked through the suction inlets by a suction fan, to generate a vortex near a rear end of the first vortex generating member, and wherein each of the second vortex generating members has a shape that divides the air into air streams and allows the air streams to generate a vortex near a rear end of the second vortex generating member.
US08657909B2 Gas cleaning separator
The present invention relates to a separator and more specifically, but not exclusively, to a centrifugal separator for the cleaning of a gaseous fluid. A centrifugal separator is provided as comprising a housing defining an inner space, and a rotor assembly for imparting a rotary motion onto a mixture of substances to be separated. The rotor assembly is located in said inner space and is rotatable about an axis relative to the housing. The rotor assembly comprises an inlet for receiving said mixture of substances, an outlet from which said substances are ejected from the rotor assembly during use, and a flow path for providing fluid communication between the inlet and outlet, wherein the outlet is positioned more radially outward from said axis than the inlet.
US08657907B2 Tubular camshaft with integrated oil separator
A cam shaft has a tubular part extending longitudinally along an axis and a helical body fixed in the tubular part and having a first helical passage extending between an inlet end where a first pressure is present and an outlet end where a second pressure is present. This helical body forms an oil separator between the inlet and outlet ends. A flow-blocking element at the inlet end moves as a function of a pressure differential between the first and second pressures to open and close the first helical passage.
US08657904B2 Cyclonic separation apparatus for a vacuum cleaner
A cyclonic separation apparatus for a vacuum cleaner, the cyclonic separation apparatus comprising: a first cyclonic separating unit comprising a hollow cylindrical dirt container with a central axis and an air inlet port arranged tangentially to the dirt container; and a second cyclonic separating unit comprising a plurality of cyclones arranged in a circular array about the central axis, wherein each cyclone has an air inlet port and an air outlet port, wherein the second cyclonic separating unit receives air flow downstream from the first cyclonic separating unit and wherein the second cyclonic separating unit has a higher separation efficiency than the first cyclonic separating unit, wherein the second separating unit is located within the dirt container. A vacuum cleaner comprising: a main body, a motor coupled to a fan and the cyclonic separation apparatus.
US08657901B2 Separation system for separating particles of first fluid from a flow of a second fluid
Sparation system 250 for separating particles of a first fluid from a flow of a second fluid, wherein the first fluid has a higher density than the second fluid comprises holder means 252 and a separation chamber 254. A lid 256 is provided for separation chamber 254. A plurality of apparatuses 200 for coalescing particles of liquid dispersed in a gas flow are arranged to be disposed in the holder means 252 such that the outlets 210 of the apparatuses are arranged to direct coalesced particles of liquid in a gas flow to enter the separation chamber 254. The separation chamber 254 comprises a gas outlet 258 and a drain 260 arranged to enable particles of solid or liquid separated from gas in the separation chamber to exit the separation chamber 254.
US08657899B2 Dust collector comprising a handle unit and intended for a vacuum cleaner
Disclosed is a dust collector provided with a dust-removing unit. The disclosed dust collector comprises: a first centrifugal separating tube defining a first centrifugal area for separating dust from air suctioned in through a first inlet; a first dust box for collecting dust separated in the first centrifugal area; a first detaching portion having a first exhaust pipe unit for exhausting the air from the first centrifugal separating tube and the first dust box to the outside; and a handle unit for maintaining the first centrifugal separating tube and the first dust box coupled together, or for releasing the coupling thereof.
US08657897B2 Wet gas separator
A wet gas separator providing superior separation of entrained droplets of liquids in a gas stream when compared with prior art wet gas separators. The wet gas separator of the present invention has a combination of: a gas inlet system with vanes that divide and direct the gas stream very evenly across the cross-sectional area of the inlet portion of the apparatus, a first stage Z-shaped de-entraining device at the upstream side of a wire mesh mist eliminator, and a gas outlet system having cyclones for removal of traces of re-entrained droplets. The apparatus of the present invention has capability of improving processing throughput by 50% when compared with prior art apparatus, with greater de-entrainment efficiency (achieving 99.7% removal of droplets larger than 10 microns in size).
US08657895B2 Jet engine deflector
A deflector for a jet engine. The deflector may prevent the jet engine from ingesting birds during a bird strike scenario. The deflector may include a series of ribs, spokes, or vanes that may vary in width and/or thickness from fore to aft, and/or may be curvilinear in one or more planes of view, and/or may serve double duty as inlet vanes for redirecting inlet air.
US08657892B2 Downdraft gasifier with internal cyclonic combustion chamber
A downdraft gasifier is disclosed. The gasifier includes a biomass section that accepts and stirs raw biomass materials, a pyrolysis and tar cracking section having an inner cylinder for receiving biomass and an outer surrounding cylinder for gases from the biomass, and a char gasification section for receiving biomass and gases from the pyrolysis and tar cracking section. The char gasification section provides a grating and scraper for passing gases and ash and retaining biomass for char gasification on the grate.
US08657891B2 Shaped wood fiber body as ignition aid
The invention relates to a shaped wood fiber body as an ignition aid with additional fuel content achieved by dipping or impregnation, wherein a plurality of wood fibers are compacted to form the shaped body. According to the invention, the preferably cylindrical body has a multilayered winding or roll structure, comprising a series of layers, which run at a radial spacing about the lengthwise axis of the cylinder. Furthermore, at least the bottom or the top surface of the cylindrical body is diagonal cut.
US08657888B2 Oxidation hair dye composition
The present invention provides an oxidation hair dye composition that has an excellent hair dyeing effect and less burden on hair. The oxidation hair dye composition of the present invention is characterized by consisting of a first formulation containing an oxidation dye and a second formulation containing an oxidation agent, which is the composition of two formulations that are mixed before use, wherein the first formulation and/or the second formulation contains acetylated hyaluronic acid or salts thereof.
US08657887B2 Prosthesis covering
A prosthesis covering comprising an outer layer having an exterior surface defining an outermost surface of a prosthesis; and an inner layer having an interior surface that lies adjacent the prosthesis when the prosthesis covering is on the prosthesis. The outer layer defines a space in which the inner layer is received such that an inwardly directed surface of the outer layer lies adjacent an outwardly directed surface of the inner layer. The inwardly directed surface of the outer layer and the outwardly directed surface of the inner layer are attached to each other at a plurality of spaced apart locations, the inwardly directed surface of the outer layer and the outwardly directed surface of the inner layer elsewhere being unattached to each other.
US08657880B2 Surgical tensioning assembly and methods of use
A surgical tensioning assembly providing a means to apply a variable and selective force to tissues, such as replacement ligaments, during a ligament reconstruction surgery. The assembly provides a means to apply a selective, measurable and a generally balanced force on multiple tissues. One embodiment of the tensioning assembly includes a set of subassemblies, namely an engagement subassembly, a variable force subassembly and an equalizing subassembly. These subassemblies are operably connected to each other such that they are able to provide tension on tissues connected to the assembly. In one embodiment the tensioning assembly further includes a mounting subassembly that provides a means to connect the tensioning assembly to a person's body. Methods of use of the surgical tensioning assembly are also disclosed to include novel methods of cycling and conditioning tissue used in a knee ligament replacement surgery.
US08657879B2 Devices and methods for treating sleep disordered breathing
Devices and methods of treating sleep disordered breathing are provided herein. The devices are designed capable of preventing collapse of an oral airway tissue during sleep while maintaining normal velopharyngeal functions.
US08657874B2 Method for physiologic control of a continuous flow total artificial heart
A method is provided of controlling a pump including a electrical motor coupled to a rotor which carries first and second impellers at opposite ends thereof. The method includes: (a) driving the rotor using the motor, so as to circulate fluid from the first impeller through a first fluid circuit, the second impeller, a second fluid circuit, and back to the first impeller; (b) determining a resistance of the first fluid circuit, based on a first motor parameter; (c) determining a flow rate through the first fluid circuit based on a second motor parameter; and (d) varying at least one operational parameter of the pump so as to maintain a predetermined relationship between the flow rate and the resistance of the first fluid circuit.
US08657871B2 Intravascular stent and method of use
An expandable stent is implanted in a body lumen, such as a coronary artery, peripheral artery, or other body lumen for treating an area of vulnerable plaque. The invention provides for a an intravascular stent having a plurality of cylindrical rings connected by undulating links. The stent has a high degree of flexibility in the longitudinal direction, yet has adequate vessel wall coverage and radial strength sufficient to hold open an artery or other body lumen. A central section is positioned between distal and proximal sections and is aligned with the area of vulnerable plaque to enhance growth of endothelial cells over the fibrous cap of the vulnerable plaque to reinforce the area and reduce the likelihood of rupture.
US08657867B2 Stent delivery device
A delivery device is provided for delivering a stent device. The stent device (2) is radially expandable from a radially reduced, delivery configuration to a radially expanded, deployment configuration. A restraining sheath (4) is mounted coaxially over the stent device for maintaining the stent device in the delivery configuration. The restraining sheath has a line of weakness (6) extending axially therealong. A pull member is provided, which is to be pulled so as to split the restraining sheath at the line of weakness and withdraw the restraining sheath from over the stent device. The pull member and the line of weakness are located on opposing sides of the restraining sheath. The pull member (5) is wrapped around a distal end of the restraining sheath. The wrap around portion may be formed by a hook of a metal pull member. The wrap around portion may be formed by an open loop of polymer thread. Both ends of the open loop may extend proximally from the restraining sheath and the stent device with one of the ends being fixed to the delivery device and the other being moveable to provide a pull end.
US08657866B2 Emergency vascular repair prosthesis deployment system
A deployment device for repair of a transected body vessel is described herein. Device can have a handle and one or more shafts coupled thereto. A prosthesis being retained by a sheath can be coupled to the delivery device. The sheath can have end portions coupled to one or more shafts. Rotation of a shaft can retract a sheath portion away from either end of the prosthesis for expansion thereof prior to the middle of the prosthesis. Continued rotation of a shaft can completely remove the sheath from the prosthesis, so that the prosthesis is fully expanded and couples the first and second vessel portions of the transected vessel together. Prosthesis may be retained by overlapping a tubular sheath and lacing a threading member therethrough. Prosthesis may be retained by a splittable sheath.
US08657862B2 Light system for photodynamic diagnosis and/or therapy
A light system for medical photodynamic applications comprises an incoherent light source emitting a light with a power and a light guide which has a distal end and an entrance interface. The entrance interface and the light source have a position relative to one another and are able to be positioned relative to one another. The light system further comprises a luminous power meter for measuring a luminous power emitted at the distal end of the light guide, a motorized positioning unit for positioning the entrance interface and the light source relative to one another, and a control unit which controls the positioning unit as a function of the luminous power measured by the luminous power meter.
US08657861B2 Gas mist pressure bath device
A gas mist pressure bath device includes a living-body cover member for covering the living-body's skin or the mucous membrane and forming a space for sealing the gas mist from the gas mist generating device inside of the living-body cover member, and a pressurizing member integrally formed with the living-body cover member pressurizing the gas mist in the living-body cover member. The pressurizing member is in a form of a ring, a hollow gas collection part, or a shielding film.
US08657858B2 Bottom-loading pedicle screw assembly
A spine screw assembly is adapted to be loaded from a bottom of a receiver member. The spine screw assembly includes a bone fastener with a head having a groove that removably accepts a clip. The clip acts to retain the head of the bone fastener in the receiver member.
US08657857B2 Bone fixation device
A bone fixation device has a housing on the exposed head of a screw mounted in a bone part from which it projects. A clamp for a fixation rod is mounted on a plate extending from each of opposite lateral sides of the housing in such a manner that allows the plate to rotate about a lateral axis relative to the housing. Each clamp is itself rotatable on its plate about an axis perpendicular to its respective lateral axis, and thereby provides universal movement relative to the housing. Mechanisms are provided for closing the clamps, for locking each plate against rotation about its lateral axis, and blocking each clamp against rotation about its perpendicular axis. In this way rods can be fixed in the clamps and relative to the device.
US08657850B2 Radial artery compression device
A radial artery compression device configured to be releasably secured by a strap or band to the underside of a wrist of a patient and to provide adjustable and consistent compression pressure in the area of a radial artery access site to achieve hemostasis either during or after a medical procedure such as a percutaneous coronary procedure. The radial artery compression device includes a body configured to engage and secure a knob while allowing the knob to rotate with respect to the body. Rotation of the knob can cause a threaded shaft to move. The threaded shaft mechanically couples the knob to a disk-shaped compression pad. The compression pad can include one or more notches adapted to at least partially surround a sheath and/or a catheter inserted into the radial artery at the access site. The compression pad can also include a step on the surface to provide a desired amount of contour to a portion of a device within the radial artery during a procedure.
US08657845B2 Multifilar cable catheter
A balloon catheter device of the present invention includes an elongate catheter shaft comprising multifilar cable tubing having a proximal portion and a distal portion. The proximal portion includes a coating that allows the shaft to provide a patent fluid passage, and a part of the distal portion inside a balloon may be uncoated or otherwise open to the balloon lumen, allowing for passage of fluid through the shaft into the balloon lumen.
US08657842B2 Devices and methods for cutting tissue
Various medical devices and methods for cutting, evacuating and/or performing work on tissue are provided. The devices and methods may utilize a reciprocating mechanism or motor powered by suction from a vacuum source. The medical devices and methods may be used on tissue in various regions of a patient's body and for treating various conditions, e.g., for performing a polypectomy.
US08657830B2 Pelvic plane locator and patient positioner
The invention includes both a method for acquiring the position of a patient's anterior pelvic plane, and a patient positioner or holder (apparatus) for securing a patient and acquiring the position of the patient's anterior pelvic plane. The method and apparatus facilitate definition of the anterior pelvic plane (APP) in the context of computer assisted hip surgery.
US08657829B2 Depth gauge cup impactor
Disclosed apparatus and methods confirm the depth of insertion of an acetabular component in the course of a total Mp replacement using a graduated shaft through a cannulated holder. Embodiments are disclosed including a version integrated into existing instrumentation, and an alternative, disposable version, one per case. All of embodiments confirm appropriate seating of the acetabular component against the inner wall of the acetabulum. Given the hemispherical reaming that is done during acetabular preparation, this would allow for maximal contact between the prosthesis and the host bone.
US08657828B2 Humeral rotating burr guide
A cutting guide for removal of bone during arthroplasty. The cutting guide includes a housing having a three-dimensional guide path and an arm coupled to the housing and extending through the guide path. The arm includes a burr. As the arm is slid along the path, the burr simultaneously cuts in two planes on the bone.
US08657819B2 Easy to clean clamping device
An easy to clean clamping device has at least one clamping assembly having two jaws. The jaws form at least one recess to accommodate an element to be clamped along the longitudinal axis of the recess. A locking unit is provided to allow closing of the jaws against the force of a spring element. The locking unit has a shaft extending along an axis and through bores of the jaws. The shaft has a head for operating the clamping action abutting against the uppermost jaw. A locking element is provided having a through bore and which locking element can be arranged between the head and the uppermost jaw. One portion of the locking unit has a larger diameter than the bore of the second jaw and the head of the locking unit has a smaller diameter than the bore of the adjacent jaw. The locking element comprises at least one locking surface which can be brought into positive locking with a corresponding surface of the head for blocking removal of the locking element.
US08657818B2 Single handled endoscopic vessel harvesting system with rotation control
A surgical instrument includes an elongated tube having a proximal end and a distal end, a handle coupled to the proximal end of the tube, and a tool that is rotatable and translatable relative to the tube, wherein the handle includes a control for rotating the tool relative to the tube, and wherein the control is coupled to the tool such that a movement of the control through an angle θc rotates the tool relative to the tube by an angle θt that is greater or less than θc, and wherein the angle θc is variable as determined by a user.
US08657816B2 Polymer composites for biomedical applications and methods of making
A biomedical polymer composite that exhibits ultra-low thermal conductivity properties. In a preferred embodiment, the biomedical polymer composite comprises a base polymer component with a dispersed thermally non-conductive filler component consisting of glass or ceramic nanospheres or microspheres that have a thermal conductivity of less than 5 W/m-K, and preferably less than 2 W/m-K. In one embodiment, the polymer composite has an electrically conductive filler and can be used in a filament for treating arteriovascular malformations. In another embodiment, the polymeric composite can be used as an energy-coupling means to apply energy to tissue.
US08657815B2 Delivery system for delivering a medical device to a location within a patient's body
Devices, systems and methods are provided for deployment of one or more functional devices, such as therapeutic or diagnostic medical devices, or positioning devices, at various locations relative to a defined operative path. The devices, systems, and methods can include a guide system and a positioning element. The guide system defines the operative path when deployed within a patient's body. The positioning element cooperates with the guide system to define one or more positions relative the defined operative path from which the one or more functional devices are deployed. The present inventions allow for the accurate and reliable placement of the one or more functional devices at the one or more positions relative the operative path. In one embodiment, the functional device is an ablation device adapted to ablate cardiac tissue for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation.
US08657811B2 Intravascular diagnostic or therapeutic apparatus using high-intensity pulsed light
An intravascular diagnostic or therapeutic apparatus capable of removing blood in an intravascular lumen to be observed using a minimally invasive method is provided. The apparatus includes high-intensity pulsed light generating means and high-intensity pulsed light transmitting means for transmitting high-intensity pulsed light, capable of irradiating the interior of a blood vessel with high-intensity pulsed light, producing water-vapor bubbles and temporarily removing the blood in the blood vessel.
US08657810B2 Method for creating incisions to improve intraocular lens placement
A system and method for inserting an intraocular lens in a patient's eye includes a light source for generating a light beam, a scanner for deflecting the light beam to form an enclosed treatment pattern that includes a registration feature, and a delivery system for delivering the enclosed treatment pattern to target tissue in the patient's eye to form an enclosed incision therein having the registration feature. An intraocular lens is placed within the enclosed incision, wherein the intraocular lens has a registration feature that engages with the registration feature of the enclosed incision. Alternately, the scanner can make a separate registration incision for a post that is connected to the intraocular lens via a strut member.
US08657807B2 Insulin pump having a suspension bolus
A method of delivering insulin to compensate for suspension of basal insulin delivery and an insulin pump are disclosed. The method includes prompting a user to input a period in which to suspend delivery of insulin from an insulin pump. The method also includes calculating an amount of insulin to be delivered during the period. The method further includes prompting the user to select a portion of the amount of insulin. The method includes delivering the portion of the amount of insulin to the patient. The method also includes suspending basal delivery of insulin from the pump.
US08657804B2 Visual indication of rupture of drug reservoir
The present disclosure relates to methods for visualizing the opening of a drug reservoir of an implantable medical device. In particular, the present disclosure provides methods for observing the release or exposure of contents from a drug reservoir of a medical device placed within the vitreous of an eye of a subject. The methods include implanting a drug delivery device within an anatomy of a subject. The drug device includes a plurality of reservoirs, each loaded with a therapeutic agent and a marker. Furthermore, the drug delivery device comprises a plurality of barrier layers for separating the contents of one of the plurality of reservoirs from the anatomy. The method further includes irradiating at least one of the plurality of barrier layers such that at least one of the plurality of reservoirs is breached, thereby triggering release of the therapeutic agent and the marker from the device. By visually detecting release of the marker into the anatomy, release of the therapeutic agent into the anatomy is verified.
US08657796B2 Wound irrigation containment arrangement
A containment arrangement for safely and effectively treating a wound on a patient without contaminating attending personnel. The arrangement comprises a patient receiving first enclosure having a patient contacting periphery, a pressurizable source in communication with the patient through a wall of the enclosure for enlarging the enclosure, and a sealing means arranged in the patient contacting periphery. A hand manipulable fluid discharge nozzle is extendably arranged through the enclosure for providing controllable treatment fluid to the wound on the patient within the enclosure.
US08657795B2 Vascular port
An access port for subcutaneous use in a patient is disclosed. This may include one or more of a housing; a chamber; a needle-penetrable sealing septum providing needle access to said chamber; and a male projection having therein a conduit to said chamber, with the projection adapted to receive a catheter. It may also include one or more of a lock and/or a locking button movable with respect to said housing. Such movement may be transverse and/or may include a yoke or other member applying inward force on the catheter.
US08657783B2 Injectable solution container and syringe
A container of an injectable solution is disclosed herein including various sensors, electrodes, a memory device, and other features that monitor the process of extraction or injection of the content of the container to ensure it is completed successfully in an automated manner, such as in an automatic injecting device.
US08657780B2 Application device
An application device for applying a dispensable material is disclosed having a closed state and an open state, the application device comprising an elastic part made of an elastic material and having a through channel being configured for engaging a cavity of a receptacle, further comprising a holder supporting a dispensing means fluidly connected with the through channel. A pinch seal is used for sealing the through channel when being in the closed state. Long-term storage is made possible, since leakage of the pinch seal is prevented by a cap effecting the pinch seal which is partially fitted into a collar.
US08657777B2 Rapid exchange fluid jet catheter
Catheters including guidewire tubes having a limited length and methods of using the catheters are described. The catheters may be delivered over guidewires in procedures that are commonly referred to as rapid-exchange delivery. In some embodiments, the catheters may be miniature flexible thrombectomy catheters that may be used to remove thrombus or other unwanted material from a body blood vessel or other small regions of body cavities in which the distal portion of the catheter has smaller external dimensions than the larger proximal portion.
US08657773B2 Ankle brace
An ankle brace which is positioned on an ankle of a person and which incorporates a tensioning structure which permits full range of motion to the ankle joint but which prevents the ankle joint from moving past its normal range of motion to protect the ankle joint.
US08657771B2 Orthopedic device for stabilizing the thumb
An orthopedic device for stabilizing the thumb, i.e. a thumb support. The orthopedic device is worn by a user to stabilize the thumb for treatment of hand and thumb injuries. The device is capable of being worn on either the right hand or left hand of a user and has one or more metal stays made from soft metal material and have an ergonomic design to contour to the hand and thumb.
US08657768B1 Cervical collar having flexible chin support
An improved cervical collar front portion fabricated from an injection molded thermoplastic resin which when used in connection with a back portion is able to secure a wearer's head and neck. The cervical collar can either be a single piece collar with an integral front portion and back portion or as a two-piece collar with the front and back portions as separate and distinct pieces that are connected together. The front portion incorporates a mandible and chin support which is rigid at the distal ends and flexible at the median to accept and accommodate any wearer's uniquely shaped chin. Furthermore, the chin support central portion is essentially perpendicular to the rest of the front collar portion.
US08657767B2 Adjustable orthopedic boot
An orthopedic boot has two leg supports connected adjustably to a foot support via two joint assemblies. Each joint assembly has a securing panel, a connecting panel, a guide panel, two limiting members and two holding members. The securing panel is mounted securely on the foot support and has two engaging grooves each having engaging cavities. The connecting panel is mounted securely to one leg support and is pivotally connected to the securing panel. The limiting members has a resilient segment, an engaging pin and a locking tab. The engaging pin is mounted slidably in one of the engaging grooves, engages one of the engaging cavities and selectively abuts the connecting panel. The locking tab is spaced from a periphery of the guide panel to define a locking gap. The holding members are held respectively in the locking gaps and abut respectively against the locking tabs.
US08657763B2 Vacuum assisted lancing system with elective vacuum release and method for blood extraction with minimal pain
A vacuum assisted lancing system for blood extraction can include a tubular body having a vacuum chamber, a lancing mechanism configured to removably couple with a lance, a vacuum mechanism including a piston slideably coupled within the body, a release mechanism for selectively holding the vacuum mechanism in an energized state, and an opening for allowing fluid communication between the vacuum chamber and an atmosphere surrounding the vacuum chamber. The system can include structure for selectively commencing dissipation of the vacuum and a fixed or adjustable depth controller. A method of manipulating a surface for blood extraction can include coupling the lancing system to the surface, blocking the opening, creating a vacuum, moving the lance coupler from a first position distal from the surface to a second position proximal to the surface, maintaining the vacuum for a period of time, and commencing dissipation of the vacuum by unblocking the opening.
US08657760B2 Ergonomic biopsy instrument
Biopsy instruments having an ergonomic design are described. A biopsy instrument comprises a housing, a needle assembly, and a handle. The needle assembly includes a cannula that defines a lumen and a stylet slidably disposed within the lumen. The housing and the handle have longitudinal axes that intersect at an acute angle.
US08657758B2 Devices and methods for temperature determination
A temperature determination method includes temporarily contacting a forehead of a subject with a first surface of a removable patch, and exposing a second surface of the patch opposite the first surface to ambient conditions. The method also includes sensing a temperature of the first surface of the patch while the first surface is in contact with the forehead at a first location thereon, sensing a temperature of the second surface of the patch, and calculating a sub-skull temperature of the subject based on the sensed temperatures of the first and second surface.
US08657757B2 System and methods for the measurement of lung volumes
A method for determining a pulmonary volume change includes: receiving a respiration event from a subject in an airflow chamber; interrupting the respiration event by an occlusion of the airflow chamber initiated at a first time instant and terminated at a second time instant subsequent to the first time instant; taking a plurality of measurements of airflow rate through the airflow chamber between the second time instant and a third time instant subsequent to the second time instant; and determining a pulmonary volume change substantially equal to a reduction of a pulmonary air volume by a pulmonary response air volume and a normal air volume, wherein the pulmonary volume change is related to a change in density of air in the airflow chamber.
US08657754B2 Sphygmomanometer
In a sphygmomanometer, an elbow detection mechanism that detects the placement of a measurement subject's elbow is provided in a portion of a cuff unit above a rotation axis. Because the elbow detection mechanism is provided in the portion of the cuff unit above the rotation axis on the biological member (upper arm) exit side, the distance L between the elbow detection mechanism and the biological member (upper arm) exit of the cuff unit can be kept constant even when the cuff unit rotates. This enables providing a sphygmomanometer that has a mechanism for changing the inclination angle of the cuff unit relative to a base and includes a mechanism for achieving a constant distance between the elbow detection mechanism and the entrance of the cuff unit regardless of the inclination angle of the cuff unit.
US08657752B2 Biologic information detecting apparatus
In measurement requiring application of pressure to a tissue of a living body such as blood pressure measurement, noise due to vibration tends to occur. It is difficult to accurately measure a pulse wave and a blood pressure value. It is also difficult to measure blood pressure in life activities or to measure blood pressure at intervals or continuously where a tonometer is always attached. There is consequently a problem of holding a biologic information detecting apparatus. The present invention solves the problems by providing an easy-to-wear biologic information detecting apparatus for stably detecting biologic information. The biologic information detecting apparatus includes a sensor for detecting biologic information in a pair of arms connected via a spindle, and the sensor is tightly attached to a projecting part in a living body, particularly, a tragus of an auricle.
US08657751B2 Ultrasound diagnostic apparatus and ultrasound image producing method
An ultrasound diagnostic apparatus includes a transmission and reception circuit which electronically scans with a transducer array in an ultrasound probe for acquiring two-dimensional image data; an image producer which produces a three-dimensional ultrasound image using the acquired two-dimensional image data while mechanically scanning with the transducer array in a direction substantially orthogonal to the array direction of the transducer array; and a controller which, when the internal temperature of the ultrasound probe is equal to or higher than a first set value, controls the transmission and reception circuit such that a composite scan including two different electronic scans is performed.
US08657746B2 Glucose sensor signal purity analysis
Disclosed are methods, apparatuses, etc. for glucose sensor signal purity analysis. In certain example embodiments, a series of samples of at least one sensor signal that is responsive to a blood glucose level of a patient may be obtained. Based at least partly on the series of samples, at least one metric may be determined to characterize one or more non-physiological anomalies of a representation of the blood glucose level of the patient by the at least one sensor signal. A reliability of the at least one sensor signal to represent the blood glucose level of the patient may be assessed based at least partly on the at least one metric. Other example embodiments are disclosed herein.
US08657745B2 Signal processing for continuous analyte sensor
Systems and methods for dynamically and intelligently estimating analyte data from a continuous analyte sensor, including receiving a data stream, selecting one of a plurality of algorithms, and employing the selected algorithm to estimate analyte values. Additional data processing includes evaluating the selected estimative algorithms, analyzing a variation of the estimated analyte values based on statistical, clinical, or physiological parameters, comparing the estimated analyte values with corresponding measure analyte values, and providing output to a user. Estimation can be used to compensate for time lag, match sensor data with corresponding reference data, warn of upcoming clinical risk, replace erroneous sensor data signals, and provide more timely analyte information encourage proactive behavior and preempt clinical risk.
US08657742B2 Medical measuring device
A medical measuring device or system (10) includes at least one measuring apparatus (12, 14). Each measuring apparatus, in turn, has at least one sensor (16, 18) for generating a measuring signal representing a sensed physiological parameter, e.g. ECG signals, of a patient (20, 22). The measuring apparatuses (12, 14) incorporate the measuring signal into a carrier signal which is transmitted a wireless communication route (24, 26) to a centrally located data detection device (24) which displays graphs (42) or numerical values (40) representing the sensed physiological parameters. The at least one measuring apparatus (12, 14) signals the quality of the measuring signals to a wearing patient (20) via an LED (32, 34) or loudspeaker (28, 30).
US08657741B2 Wound retractor
A wound retractor (320) comprises a distal ring (3) for insertion through a wound opening (6), a proximal ring (4) for location externally of the wound opening (6), a valve (10) mounted to the proximal ring (4), and a sleeve (2) for retracting laterally the sides of the wound opening (6). The wound retractor (320) also comprises a flexible release member (81) for releasing the distal ring (3) from a retracting configuration for removal of the distal ring (3) from the wound opening (6). A first end (301) of the release member (81) is attached to the valve housing (102), the release member (81) loops around the distal ring (3), and a second end (302) of the release member (81) is movable relative to the proximal ring (4) to release the distal ring (3) from the retracting configuration.
US08657739B2 Endoscopic image pickup device with multiple illumination directions
An endoscopic image pickup device includes a tubing, an image pickup module consisting of a lens and an image sensor and installed in one end of the tubing, a first light source installed in the same end of the tubing relative to the image pickup module and having an illumination range directly intersected with the image pickup range of the image pickup module, a second light source installed in the tubing and having an illumination range deviated from the illumination range of the first light source a predetermined angle and intersected with the illumination range of the first light source directly or indirectly, and a light source control means adapted for controlling on and/or off of said first light source and/or said second light source. Subject to the design that the illumination direction of the second light source is deviated from that of the first light source, the invention provides an extra illumination range, enhancing image clarity.
US08657735B2 Gastric belt
A gastric belt has a wall of a chamber (3) forming a working face (5) with a length (l5) in the flat position of the belt. The length (l5) is equal to or greater than a length (l4) of the wall of the chamber (3), which forms the back side (4) in such a way that when the belt is fastened in the form of a circle and is inflated, the chamber wall forms folds.
US08657733B2 Control systems for rotary blood pumps
The present invention generally relates to a control system for a rotary blood pump adapted to move blood in a patient. The control system comprises a means for measuring and varying the speed of the pump and a means for measuring the pulsatility index of a patient, and the control system is adapted to maintain the pulsatility index at or near a predetermined value by varying the speed of the pump. The pulsatility index is derived from the amplitude of the actual pump speed over a predetermined time period. Optionally, also, the control system can calculate the second derivative of instantaneous speed of the rotary blood pump and use the calculation of the second derivative of instantaneous speed to detect a suction event, and help prevent it.
US08657732B2 Sequentially programmed magnetic field therapeutic system (SPMF)
A comprehensive system for inducing cellular regeneration and/or degeneration processes and methods of treatment based on such processes through generating and applying a sequentially programmed magnetic field (SPMF) to the area to be treated. In the case of regeneration and degeneration of cells, the pulsing frequencies are in the range of about 0.1 to about 2000 Hz based on the indication of the disease type which was determined by either the patient's MRI, CT, Ultrasound or other diagnostic information. Methods for treating diseases or conditions that will benefit from regeneration and/or degeneration of cells. For example, methods for treating cancer, arthritis, neuro degeneration conditions, such as the age-related progressive loss of nerve cells, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, ALS, and Huntington's disease, retinal degeneration, and other damage to sensory systems (e.g., visual, auditory, somatosensory), in stroke, head and spinal trauma, epilepsy, in drug and alcohol abuse, in infectious diseases, in exposure to industrial and environmental toxicants, and, perhaps, in mental disorders and chronic pain. Methods for treating non-healing fractures and other bone disorders are also disclosed.
US08657726B2 Weightlifting system
A weightlifting system according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, a first frame member that extends along a longitudinal axis, at least one pair of openings disposed along the longitudinal axis. The at least one pair of openings are generally L-shaped and include a first opening and a second opening. A front face is mounted to the first frame member and extending along the longitudinal axis.
US08657725B2 Convertible fight simulation dummy
An attack dummy is convertible between a strike dummy and a grappling dummy by exchanging a bottom portion adapted for a strike dummy for a bottom portion adapted for a grappling dummy.
US08657723B2 Methods and computer program products for identifying prospective routes for physical activities
We have disclosed methods and computer program products for identifying prospective routes for an individual to traverse during a physical activity. The methods may include a server computer system receiving data describing the physical activity from a remote computing device, a server computer system identifying a prospective route in response to receiving data, and a server computer system transmitting data describing a map of a prospective route to a remote computing device for display of the map at the remote computing device in response to identifying the prospective route.
US08657722B2 Control apparatus of internal combustion engine
In a control apparatus of an internal combustion engine having an electronic throttle system driving an actuator so that a throttle valve provided in the internal combustion engine is at a target opening according to driving conditions, a throttle opening is turned to a limp home opening when abnormality is detected in the driving conditions so as to allow retreat traveling of a vehicle. The control apparatus of the internal combustion engine includes a brake operation detecting unit detecting a brake operation, in which when a brake operation is added subsequently while the accelerator pedal is operated, the control apparatus sets the target opening to the limp home opening based on occurrence of a sequence of the operations, and drives the actuator so that the throttle opening turns to the limp home opening, regardless of whether abnormality is detected or not.
US08657721B2 Driveline stiffness relaxation systems and methods for DFCO operation
A powertrain system includes an engine control module that generates a negative torque transition signal based on a pending negative torque event of an engine. A transmission control module receives the negative torque transition signal from the engine control module. The transmission control module increases a slip speed of a torque converter clutch in preparation for the pending negative torque event by adjusting pressure in the torque converter clutch prior to the pending negative torque event. The transmission control module decreases the slip speed in the torque converter clutch based on completion of a transition at least one of to the pending negative torque event and from the pending negative torque event.
US08657720B2 Shift control apparatus for continuously variable transmission
A shift control apparatus for a continuously variable transmission includes: a target transmission gear ratio setting section configured to set a target transmission gear ratio with reference to a map based on an accelerator opening degree and a vehicle speed; a shift control section configured to control a shift of the continuously variable transmission based on the target transmission gear ratio; and a downshift restricting section configured to judge whether or not a restriction of the downshift is needed based on at least one of a variation amount of the accelerator opening degree and an accelerator depression speed, and to perform the restriction of the downshift when the downshift restricting section judges that the restriction of the downshift is needed, irrespective of a variation of the accelerator opening degree inputted to the target transmission gear ratio setting section.
US08657715B2 Torque distributor
A torque distributor includes a friction-drive mechanism having a first roller rotatable together with a first rotary member, partly constituting a torque-transmission path to primary drive wheels, and a second roller rotatable together with a second rotary member, partly constituting a torque-transmission path to secondary drive wheels. Also provided is an eccentric-crank mechanism for revolving the second roller in a direction opposite to a rotation direction of power transmission of the second roller around an eccentric-shaft axis displaced from a second-roller rotation axis to produce a displacement of the second roller from a non-power-transmission position of non-frictional-contact with the first roller, thereby ensuring high-precision torque-distribution control with no reversal of a polarity of moment acting on a rotational-position-control system for eccentric cranks.
US08657712B2 Multi-speed drive unit
A multi-speed drive unit is provided for an electrically variable transmission having a variable-range output gear ratio for a motor vehicle. The variable-range output electrically variable transmission has improved final drive gear ratios that allow the motor to be operated in its desired efficiency and/or performance range during both city and highway vehicle operation. Further, the variable-range output electrically variable transmission allows for increased vehicle speeds during electric vehicle operation and provides for the use of the vehicle engine during reverse gear operation.
US08657705B2 Golf ball
A golf ball 2 has a large number of dimples 8 and a land 10. A rugged pattern is formed on the surface of the golf ball 2 by these dimples 8 and the land 10. These dimples 8 are arranged in a random manner. Each dimple 8 has a crater shape. For designing the rugged pattern, a Cellular Automaton method is used. A fluctuation range Rh of the golf ball 2 that is an index indicating the aerodynamic characteristic during PH rotation is 1.9 mm or less. A fluctuation range Ro of the golf ball 2 that is an index indicating the aerodynamic characteristic during POP rotation is 1.9 mm or less. The absolute value of the difference dR between the fluctuation range Ro and the fluctuation range Rh is 0.4 mm or less.
US08657703B2 Golf club head
This invention provides a hollow golf club head including a face portion, a crown portion, and a sole/side portion including a sole portion and a side portion. This golf club head includes a rib which extends from the toe side to the heel side in the sole portion, and a weight portion which is provided in the sole portion on the side of the face portion with respect to the rib or the back side with respect to the rib, and increases the amplitude of vibration of the sole portion.
US08657702B2 Golf clubs and golf club heads having interchangeable rear body members
Golf club heads (e.g., drivers, fairway woods, wood-type hybrid clubs, or the like) according to at least some example aspects of this invention include: (a) a heel; (b) a toe; (c) a crown; (d) a sole; (e) a striking face; (f) a cavity, wherein the cavity is at least partially open; (g) a rear face opposite the striking face, the rear face defining an opening to the cavity; and (h) a rear body member configured to be inserted into the opening. The rear body member may be releasably engaged with the opening to the cavity, rear face, and/or other portion of the club head body.
US08657700B2 Club head sets with varying characteristics and related methods
Embodiments of golf clubs head sets with varying characteristics are disclosed herein. Other examples and related methods are also generally described herein.
US08657699B2 Golf accessories for determining a gimme putt and method of using the same
A golf accessory for determining a gimme status of a golf putt in the form of a device that includes areas and/or indicia relating to at least two preselected conditions and by which a gimme status of a golf putt may be determined. Additional indicia on the device is associated with a practice putting game, and a method of playing the practice putting game also is disclosed.
US08657695B2 Areas for equestrian activities using structural modules
The present invention relates to an area suitable for equestrian use. The area comprises an upper, equestrian surface layer, and a sub-surface support layer which includes a plurality of laterally arranged load bearing structural modules. Each module comprises a top wall and a bottom wall spaced therefrom by one or more supporting elements so as to define an interior volume between the top and bottom walls, and is provided with at least one aperture to permit the flow of water into and out of the volume. There is a system for retaining water within at least some modules in the sub-surface support layer. A water permeable layer that is impermeable to solid particles of the upper, equestrian surface layer is provided between the structural modules and the equestrian surface layer. A wicking system is in fluid communication with the interior volumes of at least some of the modules and have portions extending upwardly to transfer water to the upper, equestrian surface layer from the sub-surface support layer.
US08657692B2 Torsion vibration damper and damping device and torque transmission device
A torsion vibration damper for a drive train of a motor vehicle, in particular a drive train of a hybrid vehicle, comprising: a spring support and a force transmission flange configured rotatable relative to the spring support, wherein at least one compression spring is provided between the spring support and the force transmission flange for transferring a mechanical torque, wherein a housing of the spring support is configured so that in a radial direction of the torsion vibration damper, at least one longitudinal end of the compression spring is supported at/in the spring support housing and/or a clearance remains between windings of a center section of the compression spring and a wall of the spring support.
US08657685B2 Universal game server
A trusted disaster tolerant system architecture supporting concurrently a number of distributed online gaming operations such as slip-scan lottery, video lottery, fixed odd betting terminals, Internet gaming, and interactive TV. A personality front end resolves the peculiarities of the various client systems before submitting the relevant transactional payload to a trusted transactional cache. A universal game random generator may be used either at the central game server or at each individual gaming machine, thus conferring a significant trust to the entire estate of gaming machines fitted with the game random generator. An auditable trusted log allows to rapidly resolve any dispute. The instant-draw model and the differed-draw model are supported. The system may advantageously be used in casino environments.
US08657683B2 Action selection gesturing
Gestures of a computer user are observed with a depth camera. A first gesture of the computer user is identified as one of a plurality of different action selection gestures, each action selection gesture associated with a different action performable within an interactive interface controlled by gestures of the computer user. A second gesture is identified as a triggering gesture that causes performance of the action associated with the action selection gesture.
US08657679B2 Class II/class III hybrid gaming machine, system and methods
The present invention provides a gaming machine that can play both Class II and Class III games. Some implementations provide a gaming machine that has certain features (e.g., a true random number generator or “RNG”) enabled for Class III play and disabled for Class II play. Some aspects of the invention provide methods for determining when a Class III game is available. Other aspects of the invention allow a player to “line up” for a desired Class III game while playing another game, such as a Class II game or another Class III game, on the same gaming machine until the desired Class III game is available. Some such implementations grant higher priority to certain players according to their gaming history, e.g., as indicated by player tracking/player loyalty data. Alternative aspects of the invention allocate available Class III games in other ways, e.g., by playing a Class II game for a chance to play a Class III game, by lottery, or otherwise. Player tracking information may be shared and/or combined for Class II and Class III game play and may be used to determine gaming history.
US08657677B2 Client account managing arrangement on an online gaming system
A client account managing arrangement on an online gaming system includes a game server system having at least one game logic managing clients participating in at least one game session. Each client has a permanent account on an accounting system. Proxies, one for each client/game session combination, are connected to the respective game logics. An asynchronous communication server system is connected to the proxies. The accounting system is connected to the asynchronous communication server system and is configured to i) create a temporary reservation account for each client/game session combination, ii) transfer money from the permanent accounts to the respective temporary reservation accounts as clients start to participate in game sessions, iii) update the temporary reservation accounts during ongoing game sessions, iv) transfer remaining money from the temporary reservation accounts to the respective permanent accounts as clients end their participation in game sessions, v) closing the temporary reservation accounts for each ended client/game session combination.
US08657674B2 Credit return to player during fault condition on gaming machine
A credit amount is returned to a wager game player on a gaming machine when a game experiences a fault condition. The credit amount is displayed automatically and the player can accept the return credit amount and resume game play without intervention from a gaming operator attendant, allowing the patron to resume game play within a short time after the fault occurred. The fault occurs during game play and a return credit amount is calculated using all relevant data available on the gaming machine at the time of the fault. The amount is displayed to the patron and the patron is queried whether the amount is acceptable. If it is, the patron can indicate so by pressing a soft key, be credited with that amount, and immediately resume game play. If not acceptable, the patron can indicate so and a gaming operator is signaled.
US08657673B2 Gaming machine with wager reallocation feature
A gaming machine includes a display device and a processor coupled to the display device. The processor is programmed to cause the display device to display a plurality of games using a plurality of frames and to partially execute at least a first game of the plurality of games to create an intermediate game play outcome. The processor is also programmed to cause the display device to display the intermediate game play outcome and a wager reallocation input, to transfer, based on the wager reallocation input, at least a portion of a first wager associated with the first game to a second game of the plurality of games, and to enable play of the second game based on a second wager associated with the second game and the transferred portion of the first wager.
US08657671B2 Wagering game with time control aspects
Systems and methods provide time control aspects for a wagering game. A first portion of a wagering game may be presented at a first rate of motion through time and a second portion may be presented at a second rate of motion through time. Further, some graphical object may be displayed according to first rate of motion through time while other graphical objects are simultaneously display according to a second rate of motion through time. Additionally, a portion of a wagering game may be replayed from a previous point in time.
US08657668B1 System and method for conducting a wagering game and awarding virtual currency from wagering game activity
A method and system for providing virtual currency in a non-wagering game through activity in a wagering game includes non-wagering game terminals and wagering game terminals. As a wagering game is conducted at wagering game terminals, activity may be directly measured or measured through a proxy such as player units awarded by a player tracking server. Activity data may be received at an account server which accrues virtual currency to a player's virtual currency account. The virtual currency stored in the virtual currency account is accessible by the player in the non-wagering game.
US08657667B2 Cooperating reels
Certain embodiments provide systems, methods, and apparatus for game play, including cooperative reel and/or symbol game play. A method includes initiating a game for play by a player at a gaming system. The method also includes determining a player combination of one or more symbols. The method further includes determining a dealer combination of one or more symbols. Additionally, the method includes comparing the player combination and the dealer combination to determine a result. The method includes outputting the result to the gaming system for player view.
US08657666B2 Methods employing action buttons
The claimed embodiments contemplate methods, systems and apparatuses directed to an active display button. In various embodiments, an active display button may generally be a button containing one or more elements that move when the button is engaged. By example, and not limitation, these elements may include one or more reels, be they mechanical or video, or perhaps a rotating indicator. The active display button may also include lights, vibratory motors and other experience-enhancing implements. The active display button may be installed on a gaming machine and operated in conjunction with the gaming device, separate from the gaming machine on which it is installed or perhaps as part of the operation of the gaming machine.
US08657665B1 Electronic gaming device with scrape away feature
Examples disclosed herein relate to systems and methods, which may receive wagers. The systems and methods may include scrape away functionality.
US08657664B2 System gaming
A system provides a player tracking system and system gaming apparatus for playing non-base games by funding the credit side of a gaming cycle. The system further includes at least one gaming device having a base game. The player tracking system and system gaming apparatus includes a player tracking user interface. The player tracking user interface provides a player with an opportunity to select and play a non-base game that may be promotional-funded or player-funded.
US08657657B2 Table game system
A table game system includes a dealer's game table for performing a table game. A movable capturing part captures game media used in the table game, and allows at least changing of a capturing direction of the movable capturing part. An operating part is arranged in a game player space provided at a position distant from the dealer's game table, and can change the capturing direction of the movable capturing part. A display part can display an image of the game media captured by the movable capturing part.
US08657647B2 Method of polishing bladed disks for a turbomachine and polishing device
A device for polishing centrifugal impellers for a turbomachine including a vat configured to be filled with a polishing agent, and an impeller support configured to make the impeller rotate around its axis and move it along its axis such that all of points of the impeller have a helical movement whereof the pitch is close to that of the helix from which the general shape of the airflow channels of the impeller comes, delimited by the blades of the impeller.
US08657645B2 Methods for testing the polishability of materials
A method and apparatus for measuring the polishability of a solid material such as a dental restorative material includes using a series of apparatus to perform the steps of forming the material into a desired specimen with a generally planar surface, conditioning the surface by abrasion, measuring the abraded surface with a profile determination device, optionally measuring the amount of material abraded from the surface and the gloss of the abraded surface, polishing a portion of the abraded surface with a polishing device at a controlled load for a pre-determined time and measuring the roughness and/or gloss of the polished surface followed by comparison thereof to the corresponding measurements of the unpolished, conditioned portion of the specimen surface. Polishing materials and devices may also be tested using the apparatus and method for polishing a standardized material.
US08657644B2 Eddy current sensor and polishing method and apparatus
An eddy current sensor is used for detecting a metal film (or conductive film) formed on a surface of a substrate such as a semiconductor wafer. The eddy current sensor includes a sensor coil disposed near a metal film or a conductive film formed on a substrate, and the sensor coil includes a detection coil operable to detect an eddy current produced in the metal film or the conductive film. The detection coil includes a coil formed by winding a wire by a single row and plural layers, the row being defined as a direction perpendicular to the substrate and the layer being defined as a direction parallel to the substrate.
US08657643B2 Nursing bra
A nursing bra comprising a mesh fabric pocket formed inside of a bra cup for receiving a pad of absorbent material, the pocket interior member having an opening proximate the weaver's breast nipple permitting direct contact between the nipple and pad.
US08657641B2 Method for forming an electrode for a spark plug
A method of forming an electrode for a spark plug is provided. The method includes machining locating holes within a blank material, inserting a rod of a different material into the locating holes and brazing the rod to the blank. An electrode receiving aperture is machined into the blank. The step of machining the aperture exposes a surface of the rod to form a contact portion of the electrode.
US08657636B2 Metal clamp
A metal clamp is formed as a one-piece integral having a lower part and an upper part that border on each other. The upper part has two transversely extending terminal pins and the lower part is formed as a U-shaped structure that includes a first clamping arm, a second clamping arm and a third clamping arm that extend vertically. The first clamping arm and the second clamping arm face each other across an accommodating gap defined therebetween. The third clamping arm is resiliently restorable and is deposited between the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm to face the accommodating gap. The metal clamp provides good electrical contact.
US08657633B2 Connector
A connector according to the present invention comprises a housing and a plurality of contacts. The housing includes a mating portion having a plate shape. The mating portion projects forward and has an upper surface and a bottom surface. The plurality of contacts is held by the housing. Each of the contacts comprises a contact portion, an end portion and a flat portion. The contact portion extends in a connection direction and is exposed at the upper surface of the mating portion. The end portion is embedded in the mating portion. The flat portion forms a boundary between the contact portion and the end portion and does not projects from the upper surface. The flat portion is able to be viewed from above the upper surface of the mating portion.
US08657631B2 Vertical connector for a printed circuit board
An connector assembly is provided that may be utilized for vertical applications on a circuit board. The assembly includes a housing that supports a plurality of wafers that in tern support a plurality of terminals. The housing includes a base and a nose and can have two slots in the nose and the terminals extend to both slots. A guide frame can be positioned on the housing to help support the housing. The terminals can be arranged in a row on both sides of the two slots. The tails of the terminals can be configured with respect to the slots so as to provide desirable performance.
US08657630B1 Dual connector plate
A system and method for connecting an advanced electronic module to a legacy chassis is presented. In one embodiment, a connector plate comprises a plate bracket, a module connector, at least two chassis connectors and route logic. The plate bracket has a front side, a back side and an opening. The module connector connects to an electronic module within the opening. The at least two chassis connectors are located on the back side of the bracket plate and are configured to be connected to a legacy chassis or and advanced chassis. The legacy chassis and the advanced chassis do not expect signals from the same number chassis conductors. The routing logic routes signals from the module connector to each of the at least two chassis connectors.
US08657626B2 Cable connector with retaining element
A electrical connector for terminating an electrical cable having a metallic sheath, includes a substantially tubular gland body having a central bore extending therethrough, a forward end, and a cable receiving end. A gland nut is rotatably coupled to the cable receiving end of the gland body. The gland nut is axially movable from a first position relative to the gland body to a second position relative to the gland body. A substantially tubular compression bushing is positioned between the gland nut and the gland body. A retaining element is positioned forward of the compression bushing in the central bore, wherein the retaining element comprises an annular body and a number of resilient tabs projecting inwardly from the annular body. Upon receipt of the electrical cable therein, the resilient tabs are configured to deform on engagement with the metallic sheath.
US08657625B2 Connector and semiconductor test device
A connector includes a signal terminal, an insulating member, a ground terminal and an enclosure. The signal terminal has a main body extending in one direction, and a contact arm provided on each side of the main body for contacting another conductor. The insulating member encloses the main body. The ground terminal has a cylindrical main body enclosing the insulating member, and a contact arm provided on each side of the cylindrical main body for contacting another conductor. The cylindrical main body includes first and second semi-cylindrical parts, each having semi cylindrical shapes. The semi-cylindrical parts make a cylindrical shape as a whole by both end parts of the circumferential direction being assembled so as to mutually overlap. An insertion hole is formed in the enclosure where an assembly of the signal element, the insulating member and the ground terminal are inserted.
US08657623B2 Connect/disconnect connector for coaxial cable
A connector for quick connect/disconnect engagement between two or more segments of coaxial cable has a hollow housing for attaching to a first electrical conductor and a coupler for attaching to a second electrical conductor. The housing and the coupler move to a limited distance in a sliding relation to each other. A locking member is fitted between the housing and the coupler to lock position of the housing in relation to the coupler and disengage the housing from the coupler when needed. The locking member has a compression spring that normally urges the housing away from the coupler and locking balls fitted in cutouts made in the locking member. When the spring is compressed, the locking balls move from the cutouts into an annular groove formed in the inner wall of the housing, thus allowing a limited sliding movement of the housing.
US08657617B2 Electrical connector
An electrical connector for connecting a flat conductive member includes a housing that has a receiving portion for receiving the flat conductive member; a plurality of terminals; a movable member; and a regulating member. The regulating member is disposed between the movable member and the flat conductive member. Accordingly, it is possible to securely confirm that the flat conductive member is not completely inserted. When the movable member is moved to the closed position, the movable member pushes the regulating member, so that the entire portion of the movable member is moved. If the flat conductive member is situated at the incomplete insertion position, the regulating member abuts against the flat conductive member and stays at the middle position, so that the regulating member restricts the movement of the movable member.
US08657616B2 Electrical contact normal force increase
An electrical connector including a housing; and a plurality of first ground contacts. The first ground contacts each comprise a male contact blade configured to be inserted into a contact channel of a housing of a mating electrical connector. The male contact blade has a portion configured to contact the housing of the mating electrical connector, after the male contact blade makes electrical contact with the deflectable beam, to move the male contact blade in the contact channel, increase deflection of the deflectable beam by the male contact blade, and increase or maintain normal force between the mating contact and the ground contact generally.
US08657615B2 Lamp tube socket with a metal clip between a covering portion and an actuating portion
A lamp tube socket structure includes a base, an elastic element, an abutting element, a cover and a metal clip, and the base has an actuating portion, a support pillar extended transversally from the actuating portion and comprised of two wings, and an elastic element is contained in the support pillar, and the abutting element is passed and installed to the two wings of the support pillar and pushed by the elastic element, and the cover has a covering portion, an embedding hole formed on the covering portion, and the cover is combined with the base, and a metal clip containing portion is formed between the covering portion and the actuating portion.
US08657613B2 Electrical charger
There is provided an electrical charger including a base unit and an adaptor unit. The base unit is configured for being coupled to an electronic device. The adaptor unit is configured for being coupled to a power supply. The base unit includes an electrical connector plug. The external surfaces of the base unit and the adaptor unit include co-operating external geometries that provide a visual indication whether the electrical connector plug is disposed, relative to the adaptor unit, in the electrically coupled state or in an electrically uncoupled state.
US08657612B2 Socket and motherboard with the same
A socket for selectively mounting on a board includes a housing and a latch. The housing includes a first side plate and a second side plate parallel to the first side plate. The first and second side plates define an elongated slot therebetween for reception of the board. The latch includes an axle, a body and a fastening portion. The axle is pivotably coupled to the housing at one end of the slot. The body has one end joined to the axle and the other end to the fastening portion. The fastening portion is constructed for engagement with the board. In addition, the lateral width of the body of the latch in the direction along the width of the first side plate is smaller than that of the axle in the same direction.
US08657611B1 Card connector
A card connector includes an insulating housing defining a receiving chamber for receiving a card, a plurality of terminals disposed in the insulating housing, an ejecting device disposed in one side of the receiving chamber, and a cover coupled on the insulating housing. The ejecting device includes a sliding body of which a top defines a sliding fillister, and a spring restrained between a rear sidewall of the receiving chamber and the sliding body. A bottom sidewall of the sliding fillister protrudes upward to form a blocking block designating a front face thereof as a blocking face. The cover has a top plate of which one side is die-cut to form an elastic slice inclined downward into the sliding fillister. The elastic slice resists against the blocking face in use to keep the sliding body being locked, and sets free the blocking block when ejecting the card out.
US08657610B2 Portable electronic device with collapsible plug
A portable electronic device including a main body having one end concavely provided with a receiving groove, a pivot pin provided in the receiving groove, a pivot seat pivotally connected to the pivot pin, a transmission line having one end electrically connected to a circuit board provided in the main body and the other end extending into the receiving groove, and a plug having one end embedded in the pivot seat. Since the pivot pin has a hollow configuration, the other end of the transmission line is able to pass through the pivot pin and be electrically connected to the plug, allowing the plug to be rotated and received in the receiving groove when the portable electronic device is not in use and preventing the transmission line from being pulled or curled due to rotation of the plug.
US08657609B2 Seal structure for electronic control device
Seal structure for electronic control device having a seal portion formed between an outer peripheral surface of a connector and an inner peripheral surface of a housing, and provided with a seal groove and a protruding line. The seal portion has a deep bottom portion having a seal groove, a shallow bottom portion whose seal groove is shallower than that of the deep bottom portion, and a connecting portion connecting these deep and shallow bottom portions. Width of the seal groove of the shallow bottom portion is set to be larger than the deep bottom portion As a position of a seal groove of the connecting portion gets closer to the deep bottom portion from the shallow bottom portion, depth of the seal groove of the connecting portion is set to be gradually larger, and width of the seal groove of the connecting portion is set to be gradually smaller.