Document Document Title
US08878301B2 Semiconductor device with transistors having different source/drain region depths
A semiconductor device includes core transistors for forming a logic circuit, and I/O transistors for forming an input/output circuit. A distance from the main surface to a lowermost part of an n-type impurity region NR of the I/O n-type transistor is longer than that from the main surface to a lowermost part of an n-type impurity region NR of the core n-type transistor. A distance from the main surface to a lowermost part of a p-type impurity region PR of the I/O p-type transistor is longer than that from the main surface to a lowermost part of a p-type impurity region of the core p-type transistor. A distance from the main surface to the lowermost part of the n-type impurity region of the I/O n-type transistor is longer than that from the main surface to the lowermost part of the p-type impurity region of the I/O p-type transistor.
US08878298B2 Multiple Vt field-effect transistor devices
Multiple threshold voltage (Vt) field-effect transistor (FET) devices and techniques for the fabrication thereof are provided. In one aspect, a FET device is provided including a source region; a drain region; at least one channel interconnecting the source and drain regions; and a gate, surrounding at least a portion of the channel, configured to have multiple threshold voltages due to the selective placement of at least one band edge metal throughout the gate.
US08878297B2 ESD protection circuit
A device having a substrate defined with a device region is presented. The device region includes an ESD protection circuit having a transistor. The transistor includes a gate having first and second sides, a first diffusion region adjacent to the first side of the gate and a second diffusion region displaced away from the second side of the gate. The device includes a first device well which encompasses the device region and a second device well disposed within the first device well. The device further includes a drift well which encompasses the second diffusion region of which edges of the drift well do not extend below the gate and is away from a channel region, and a drain well which is disposed under the second diffusion region and extends below the gate.
US08878294B2 Semiconductor device having a drain-gate isolation portion
An inventive semiconductor device includes a semiconductor layer, a source region provided in a surface layer portion of the semiconductor layer, a drain region provided in the surface of the semiconductor layer in spaced relation from the source region, a gate insulation film provided in opposed relation to a portion of the surface of the semiconductor layer present between the source region and the drain region, a gate electrode provided on the gate insulation film, and a drain-gate isolation portion provided between the drain region and the gate insulation film for isolating the drain region and the gate insulation film from each other in non-contact relation.
US08878292B2 Self-aligned slotted accumulation-mode field effect transistor (AccuFET) structure and method
This invention discloses a semiconductor power device disposed in a semiconductor substrate. The semiconductor power device includes trenched gates each having a stick-up gate segment extended above a top surface of the semiconductor substrate surrounded by sidewall spacers. The semiconductor power device further includes slots opened aligned with the sidewall spacers substantially parallel to the trenched gates. The stick-up gate segment further includes a cap composed of an insulation material surrounded by the sidewall spacers. A layer of barrier metal covers a top surface of the cap and over the sidewall spacers and extends above a top surface of the slots. The slots are filled with a gate material same as the gate segment for functioning as additional gate electrodes for providing a depletion layer extends toward the trenched gates whereby a drift region between the slots and the trenched gate is fully depleted at a gate-to-drain voltage Vgs=0 volt.
US08878291B2 Semiconductor device and method of fabricating the same
A semiconductor device includes a first buried gate structure in a peripheral circuit area of a semiconductor substrate, and a second gate structure formed on the semiconductor substrate. A gate insulating layer of a program transistor is thinly formed to be easily ruptured, and a gate insulating layer of a select transistor is thickly formed to improve reliability of the select transistor.
US08878290B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor substrate of a semiconductor device includes a body region of a first conductivity type, a drift region of a second conductivity type coming into contact with a lower surface of the body region, a gate electrode that is provided in a gate trench passing through the body region and extending to the drift region and faces the body region, and a gate insulator that is provided between the gate electrode and a wall surface of the gate trench. An inverted U-shaped section is formed in a lower surface of the gate insulator, and a floating region of the first conductivity type is formed in the inverted U-shaped section. The floating region protrudes under a portion that is located at a lowermost portion in the lower surface of the gate insulator.
US08878284B2 Programmable SCR for LDMOS ESD protection
A protection circuit for a DMOS transistor comprises an anode circuit having a first heavily doped region of a first conductivity type (314) formed within and electrically connected to a first lightly doped region of the second conductivity type (310, 312). A cathode circuit having a plurality of third heavily doped regions of the first conductivity type (700) within a second heavily doped region of the second conductivity type (304). A first lead (202) is connected to each third heavily doped region (704) and connected to the second heavily doped region by at least three spaced apart connections (702) between every two third heavily doped regions. An SCR (400, 402) is connected between the anode circuit and the cathode circuit. The DMOS transistor has a drain (310, 312, 316) connected to the anode circuit and a source (304) connected to the cathode circuit.
US08878283B2 Quasi-vertical gated NPN-PNP ESD protection device
Fashioning a quasi-vertical gated NPN-PNP (QVGNP) electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection device is disclosed. The QVGNP ESD protection device has a well having one conductivity type formed adjacent to a deep well having another conductivity type. The device has a desired holding voltage and a substantially homogenous current flow, and is thus highly robust. The device can be fashioned in a cost effective manner by being formed during a BiCMOS or Smart Power fabrication process.
US08878280B2 Flash memory device and method for manufacturing the same
The present invention provides a FinFET flash memory device and the method for manufacturing the same. The flash memory device is on an insulating layer, comprising: a first fin and a second fin, wherein the second fin is a control gate of the device; a gate dielectric layer, at side walls and top of the first fin and the second fin; source/drain regions, inside the first fin at both sides of a floating gate.
US08878275B2 LDMOS device with double-sloped field plate
In one general aspect, an apparatus can include a channel region disposed in a semiconductor substrate, a gate dielectric disposed on the channel region and a drift region disposed in the semiconductor substrate adjacent to the channel region. The apparatus can further include a field plate having an end portion disposed between a top surface of the semiconductor substrate and the gate dielectric The end portion can include a surface in contact with the gate dielectric, the surface having a first portion aligned along a first plane non-parallel to a second plane along which a second portion of the surface is aligned, the first plane being non-parallel to the top surface of the semiconductor substrate and the second plane being non-parallel to the top surface of the semiconductor substrate.
US08878272B2 Semiconductor device having stacked storage nodes of capacitors in cell region separated from peripheral region
Methods of fabricating a semiconductor device are provided. The method includes forming a first mold layer on a in a cell region and a peripheral region, forming first storage nodes penetrating the first mold layer in the cell region and a first contact penetrating the first mold layer in the peripheral region, forming a second mold layer on the first mold layer, forming second storage nodes that penetrate the second mold layer to be connected to respective ones of the first storage nodes, removing the second mold layer in the cell and peripheral regions and the first mold layer in the cell region to leave the first mold layer in the peripheral region, and forming a second contact that penetrates a first interlayer insulation layer to be connected to the first contact. Related devices are also provided.
US08878270B2 Semiconductor memory device
A semiconductor memory device including a bit line, a word line, a transistor, and a capacitor is provided. The transistor includes source and drain electrodes; an oxide semiconductor film in contact with at least both top surfaces of the source and drain electrodes; a gate insulating film in contact with at least a top surface of the oxide semiconductor film; a gate electrode which overlaps with the oxide semiconductor film with the gate insulating film provided therebetween; and an insulating film covering the source and drain electrodes, the gate insulating film, and the gate electrode. The transistor is provided in a mesh of a netlike conductive film when seen from the above. Here, the drain electrode and the netlike conductive film serve as one and the other of a pair of capacitor electrodes of the capacitor. A dielectric film of the capacitor includes at least the insulating film.
US08878269B2 Band gap improvement in DRAM capacitors
A method for forming a DRAM MIM capacitor stack having low leakage current and low EOT involves the use of an compound high k dielectric material. The dielectric material further comprises a dopant. One component of the compound high k dielectric material is present in a concentration between about 30 atomic % and about 80 atomic and more preferably between about 40 atomic % and about 60 atomic %. In some embodiments, the compound high k dielectric material comprises an alloy of TiO2 and ZrO2 and further comprises a dopant of Al2O3. In some embodiments, the compound high k dielectric material comprises an admixture of TiO2 and HfO2 and further comprises a dopant of Al2O3.
US08878265B2 Solid-state imaging device
According to one embodiment, a solid-state imaging device includes a first element formation region surrounded by an element isolation region in a semiconductor substrate having a first and a second surface, an upper element isolation layer on the first surface in the element formation region, a lower element isolation layer between the second surface and the upper element isolation layer, a first photodiode in the element formation region, a floating diffusion in the element formation region, and a first transistor disposed between the first photodiode and the floating diffusion. A side surface of the lower element isolation layer protrudes closer to the transistor than a side surface of the upper element isolation layer.
US08878263B2 Semiconductor device, method for manufacturing same, and solid-state image sensing device
Disclosed herein is a semiconductor device including: a semiconductor substrate; a gate insulating film formed on surfaces of the semiconductor substrate including an internal surface of a hole formed in the semiconductor substrate and formed by radical oxidation or plasma oxidation; and a gate electrode formed as buried in the hole. The gate insulating film and the gate electrode form a vertical MOS.
US08878262B2 Semiconductor device and manufacturing method of the same
An insulating film provided between adjacent pixels is referred to as a bank, a partition, a barrier, an embankment or the like, and is provided above a source wiring or a drain wiring for a thin film transistor, or a power supply line. In particular, at an intersection portion of these wirings provided in different layers, a larger step is formed there than in other portions. Even in a case that the insulating film provided between adjacent pixels is formed by a coating method, there is a problem that thin portions are partially formed due to this step and the withstand pressure is reduced. In the present invention, a dummy material is arranged near the large step portion, particularly, around the intersection portion of wirings, so as to alleviate unevenness formed thereover. The upper wring and the lower wiring are arranged in a misaligned manner so as not to align the end portions.
US08878260B2 Devices with gate-to-gate isolation structures and methods of manufacture
A method includes forming a plurality of trenches in a pad film to form raised portions, and depositing a hard mask in the trenches and over the upper pad film. The method includes forming a plurality of fins including the raised portions and a second plurality of fins including the hard mask deposited in the trenches, each of which are separated by a deep trench. The method includes removing the hard mask on the plurality of fins including the raised portions and the second plurality of fins resulting in a dual height fin array. The method includes forming gate electrodes within each deep trench between each fin of the dual height fin array, burying the second plurality of fins and abutting sides of the plurality of fins including the raised portions. The plurality of fins including the raised portions electrically and physically isolate adjacent gate electrode of the gate electrodes.
US08878258B2 Detector of biological or chemical material and corresponding array of detectors
A detector of biological or chemical material, including a MOS transistor having its channel region inserted between upper and lower insulated gates, the upper insulated gate including a detection layer capable of generating a charge at the interface of the upper insulated gate and of its gate insulator, the thickness of the upper gate insulator being smaller than the thickness of the lower gate insulator.
US08878256B2 Image sensors with multiple output structures
In various embodiments, image sensors incorporate multiple output structures by including multiple sub-arrays, at least one of which includes a region of active pixels, a dark pixel region that is fanned and/or slanted, a dark pixel region that is unfanned and unslanted, a horizontal CCD, and an output structure for conversion of charge to voltage.
US08878253B2 Semiconductor devices
A semiconductor device and method of manufacturing a semiconductor device include a plurality of first active regions and a second active region being formed on a substrate. The second active region is formed between two of the first active regions. A plurality of gate structures is formed on respective first active regions. A dummy gate structure is formed on the second active region, and a first voltage is applied to the dummy gate structure.
US08878251B2 Silicon-compatible compound junctionless field effect transistor
The present invention provides a silicon-compatible compound junctionless field effect transistor enabled to be compatible to a bulk silicon substrate for substituting an expensive SOI substrate, to form a blocking semiconductor layer between a silicon substrate and an active layer by a semiconductor material having a specific difference of energy bandgap from that of the active layer to substitute a prior buried oxide for blocking a leakage current at an off-operation time and to form the active layer by a semiconductor layer having electron or hole mobility higher than that of silicon, and to operate perfectly as a junctionless device though the dopant concentration of the active layer is much lower than the prior junctionless device.
US08878248B2 Semiconductor device and fabrication method
A semiconductor device includes a first semiconductor layer formed on a substrate, the first semiconductor containing an impurity element; a second semiconductor layer formed on the first semiconductor layer; a third semiconductor layer formed on the second semiconductor layer; and a gate electrode, a source electrode and a drain electrode that are formed on the third semiconductor layer. In the semiconductor device, the second semiconductor layer includes an impurity diffusion region in which an impurity element contained in the first semiconductor layer is diffused, the impurity diffusion region being located directly beneath the gate electrode and being in contact with the first semiconductor layer, and the impurity element causes the impurity diffusion region to be a p-type impurity diffusion region.
US08878241B2 Semiconductor structure and manufacturing method for the same and ESD circuit
A semiconductor structure and manufacturing method for the same, and an ESD circuit are provided. The semiconductor structure comprises a first doped region, a second doped region, a third doped region and a resistor. The first doped region has a first type conductivity. The second doped region has a second type conductivity opposite to the first type conductivity. The third doped region has the first type conductivity. The first doped region and the third doped region are separated by the second doped region. The resistor is coupled between the second doped region and the third doped region. An anode is coupled to the first doped region. A cathode is coupled to the third doped region.
US08878240B2 Variable resistance memory device and method for fabricating the same
A variable resistance memory device that includes a first electrode, a second electrode, a variable resistance layer interposed between the first electrode and a second electrode. A metal oxide electrode is interposed between the first electrode and the variable resistance layer, and the metal oxide electrode does not include a nitrogen constituent.
US08878239B2 Semiconductor device
On a main surface of a semiconductor substrate, an N− semiconductor layer is formed with a dielectric portion including relatively thin and thick portions interposed therebetween. In a predetermined region of the N− semiconductor layer, an N-type impurity region and a P-type impurity region are formed. A gate electrode is formed on a surface of a portion of the P-type impurity region located between the N-type impurity region and the N− semiconductor layer. In a predetermined region of the N− semiconductor layer located at a distance from the P-type impurity region, another P-type impurity region is formed. As a depletion layer block portion, another N-type impurity region higher in impurity concentration than the N− semiconductor layer is formed from the surface of the N− semiconductor layer to the dielectric portion.
US08878235B2 Memory cell that employs a selectively fabricated carbon nano-tube reversible resistance-switching element and methods of forming the same
In some aspects, a method of fabricating a memory cell is provided that includes fabricating a steering element above a substrate, and fabricating a reversible-resistance switching element coupled to the steering element by selectively fabricating carbon nano-tube (“CNT”) material above the substrate, wherein the CNT material comprises a single CNT. Numerous other aspects are provided.
US08878234B2 Semiconductor devices
In an embodiment, a semiconductor device is provided. The semiconductor device may include a substrate having a main processing surface, a first source/drain region comprising a first material of a first conductivity type, a second source/drain region comprising a second material of a second conductivity type, wherein the second conductivity type is different from the first conductivity type, a body region electrically coupled between the first source/drain region and the second source/drain region, wherein the body region extends deeper into the substrate than the first source/drain region in a first direction that is perpendicular to the main processing surface of the substrate, a gate dielectric disposed over the body region, and a gate region disposed over the gate dielectric, wherein the gate region overlaps with at least a part of the first source/drain region and with a part of the body region in the first direction.
US08878230B2 Semi-insulating group III metal nitride and method of manufacture
A large-area, high-purity, low-cost single crystal semi-insulating gallium nitride that is useful as substrates for fabricating GaN devices for electronic and/or optoelectronic applications is provided. The gallium nitride is formed by doping gallium nitride material during ammonothermal growth with a deep acceptor dopant species, e.g., Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, etc., to compensate donor species in the gallium nitride, and impart semi-insulating character to the gallium nitride.
US08878229B2 Light emitting device package including a substrate having at least two recessed surfaces
Disclosed is a light emitting device package. The light emitting device package includes a substrate including a recess, a light emitting chip on the substrate and a first conductive layer electrically connected to the light emitting chip. And the first conductive layer includes at least one metal layer electrically connected to the light emitting chip on an outer circumference of the substrate.
US08878225B2 Organic light-emitting device having homogenous brightness distribution
An organic light-emitting device comprising an active layer for producing radiation having a first side surface and a second side surface adjoining a corner edge. A first contact strip extends along the first side surface for injecting charge carriers of a first type into the active layer. A second contact strip extends along the second side surface for injecting charge carriers of a second type into the active layer. The first side surface has a recessed region adjoining the corner edge, and the injection of charge carriers from the first contact strip is suppressed in the recessed region.
US08878223B2 Light emitting device and method for manufacturing thereof
A conductive layer serving as an auxiliary wiring is formed under a first electrode with a first insulating layer interposed therebetween, and the conductive layer and a second electrode are electrically connected to each other through an opening in the first insulating layer and the first electrode. A second insulating layer is formed over a sidewall of the opening so that the first electrode is not directly in contact with the second electrode in the opening. An EL layer is formed by evaporation in a state where a deposition target substrate is inclined to an evaporation source, so that the second insulating layer serves as an obstacle and a region where the EL layer is not formed by the evaporation and the conductive layer is exposed is formed in part of the opening in a self-aligned manner.
US08878221B2 Light emitting module
Disclosed herein is a light emitting module. The light emitting module according to an exemplary embodiment includes a circuit board having a cavity and including a circuit pattern at a region which does not have the cavity, an insulation substrate disposed in the cavity while being formed, at an upper portion thereof, with at least one pad, and at least one light emitting device disposed on the pad, wherein a joining structure is disposed between a bottom surface of the cavity and a bottom surface of the insulation substrate.
US08878219B2 Flip-chip phosphor coating method and devices fabricated utilizing method
Methods for fabricating light emitting diode (LED) chips one of which comprises flip-chip mounting a plurality of LEDs on a surface of a submount wafer and forming a coating over said LEDs. The coating comprising a conversion material at least partially covering the LEDs. The coating is planarized to the desired thickness with the coating being continuous and unobstructed on the top surface of the LEDs. The LEDs chips are then singulated from the submount wafer. An LED chip comprising a lateral geometry LED having first and second contacts, with the LED flip-chip mounted to a submount by a conductive bonding material. A phosphor loaded binder coats and at least partially covers the LED. The binder provides a substantially continuous and unobstructed coating over the LED. The phosphor within the coating absorbs and converts the wavelength of at least some of the LED light with the coating planarized to achieve the desired emission color point of the LED chip.
US08878218B2 Semiconductor light-emitting device and method for manufacturing the same
The invention provides semiconductor light-emitting devices which have a semiconductor layer on a principal surface of a translucent substrate and a reflective layer on a second principal surface opposite to the principal surface having the semiconductor layer, which enables that the peeling of the reflective layer from the translucent substrate is suppressed. A semiconductor light-emitting device includes a first metal layer disposed in contact with a second principal surface of a translucent substrate, a second metal layer disposed in contact with at least the second principal surface or a side surface of the translucent substrate around the first metal layer, and a third metal layer disposed on the second metal layer. The first metal layer has a reflectance with respect to a peak wavelength of light emitted from an emitting layer higher than the reflectance of the second metal layer. The second metal layer has an adhesion with respect to the translucent substrate higher than the adhesion between the first metal layer and the translucent substrate.
US08878217B2 LED package with efficient, isolated thermal path
Packages for containing one or more light emitting devices, such as light emitting diodes (LEDs), are disclosed with an efficient, isolated thermal path. In one embodiment, LED package can include a thermal element and at least one electrical element embedded within a body. The thermal element and electrical element can have the same and/or substantially the same thickness and can extend directly from a bottom surface of the LED package such that they are substantially flush with or extend beyond the bottom surface of the LED package. The thermal and electrical element have exposed portions which can be substantially flush with lateral sides of the body such that the thermal and electrical element do not have a significant portion extending beyond an outermost edge of the lateral sides of the body.
US08878216B2 Light emitting diode module and method for manufacturing the same
A light emitting diode (LED) module includes a substrate, an LED disposed on the substrate, a phosphor layer disposed on the LED, and a lens disposed on the substrate. The substrate has a recess defined therein. The lens is fastened to the substrate through the recess. A manufacturing method for the LED includes forming the recess in the substrate, mounting the LED on the substrate, forming the phosphor layer on the LED, and forming the lens directly on the substrate such that the lens is fastened to the substrate through the recess.
US08878205B2 Light emitting diode wafer-level package with self-aligning features
Several embodiments of light emitting diode packaging configurations including a substrate with a cavity are disclosed herein. A patterned wafer has a plurality of individual LED attachment sites, and an alignment wafer has a plurality of individual cavities. The patterned wafer and the alignment wafer are superimposed with the LED attachment sites corresponding generally to the cavities of the alignment wafer. At least one LED is placed in the cavities using the cavity to align the LED relative to the patterned wafer. The LED is electrically connected to contacts on the patterned wafer, and a phosphor layer is formed in the cavity to cover at least a part of the LED.
US08878203B2 Switching circuit
A switching circuit comprises a first transistor and a second transistor formed in an active area of semiconductor substrate. The source and drain regions of the transistors are electrically connected to respective source wires and drain wires through a plurality of intermediate metal layers stacked above the transistor. Electrical connections between different layers are made with a plurality of vias. To improve switching performance, the intermediate wires are disposed such that intermediate wires electrically connected to the transistor source regions are not directly beneath the drain wires. Similarly, intermediate wires electrically connected to drain regions are arranged not to be directly underneath source wires.
US08878200B2 Light emitting package having a guiding member guiding an optical member
The present invention discloses a light emitting package, including: a base; a light emitting device on the base; an electrical circuit layer electrically connected to the light emitting device; a screen member having an opening and disposed on the base adjacent to the light emitting device; and a lens covering the light emitting device, wherein a width of a cross-sectional shape of the screen member is larger than a height of the cross sectional shape of the screen member, wherein the lens is disposed on the screen member, and wherein the lens is connected to an uppermost surface of the screen member.
US08878199B2 White light emitting diode (LED) lighting device driven by pulse current
A white LED lighting device driven by a pulse current is provided, which consists of blue, violet or ultraviolet LED chips, blue afterglow luminescence materials A and yellow luminescence materials B. Wherein the weight ratio of the blue afterglow luminescence materials A to the yellow luminescence materials B is 10-70 wt %: 30-90 wt %. The white LED lighting device drives the LED chips with a pulse current having a frequency of not less than 50 Hz. Because of using the afterglow luminescence materials, the light can be sustained when an excitation light source disappears, thereby eliminating the influence of LED light output fluctuation caused by current variation on the illumination. At the same time, the pulse current can keep the LED chips being at an intermittent work state, so as to overcome the problem of chip heating.
US08878191B2 Fin field effect transistors including energy barriers
A semiconductor device structure includes a transistor with an energy barrier beneath its transistor channel. The energy barrier prevents leakage of stored charge from the transistor channel into a bulk substrate. Methods for fabricating semiconductor devices that include energy barriers are also disclosed.
US08878189B2 Group III nitride semiconductor growth substrate, group III nitride semiconductor epitaxial substrate, group III nitride semiconductor element and group III nitride semiconductor free-standing substrate, and method of producing the same
An object of the present invention is to provide a Group III nitride semiconductor epitaxial substrate, a Group III nitride semiconductor element, and a Group III nitride semiconductor free-standing substrate, which have good crystallinity, with not only AlGaN, GaN, and GaInN the growth temperature of which is 1050° C. or less, but also with AlxGa1-xN having a high Al composition, the growth temperature of which is high; a Group III nitride semiconductor growth substrate used for producing these, and a method for efficiently producing those. The present invention provides a Group III nitride semiconductor growth substrate comprising a crystal growth substrate including a surface portion composed of a Group III nitride semiconductor which contains at least Al, and a scandium nitride film formed on the surface portion are provided.
US08878187B2 Semiconductor device and driving method thereof
A voltage equal to the threshold value of a TFT (106) is held in capacitor unit (109). When a video signal is inputted from a source signal line, the voltage held in the capacitor unit is added thereto and a resultant signal is applied to a gate electrode of the TFT (106). Even when a threshold value is varied for each pixel, each threshold value is held in the capacitor unit (109) for each pixel. Thus, the influence of a variation in threshold value can be eliminated. Further, holding of the threshold value is conducted by only the capacitor unit (109) and a charge does not move at writing of a video signal so that a voltage between both electrodes is not changed. Thus, it is not influenced by a variation in capacitance value.
US08878186B2 Semiconductor device and display apparatus
A semiconductor device according to an aspect of the present invention includes: a semiconductor layer including a channel region and a contact region; a pattern of a first conducting layer disposed at a position which overlaps with the channel region; a gate line formed in one of a second conducting layer or a third conducting layer, and connected to the pattern of the first conducting layer; and a source line formed in the other of the second conducting layer and the third conducting layer, and connected to the contact region.
US08878184B2 Display device and method for manufacturing the same
A display device having the high aperture ratio and a storage capacitor with high capacitance is to be obtained. The present invention relates to a display device and a manufacturing method thereof. The display device includes a thin film transistor which includes a gate electrode, a gate insulating film, a first semiconductor layer, a channel protective film, a second semiconductor having conductivity which is divided into a source region and a drain region, and a source electrode and a drain electrode; a third insulating layer formed over the second conductive film; a pixel electrode formed over the third insulating layer, which is connected to one of the source electrode and the drain electrode; and a storage capacitor formed in a region where a capacitor wiring over the first insulating layer and the pixel electrode are overlapped with the third insulating layer over the capacitor wiring interposed therebetween.
US08878182B2 Probe pad design for 3DIC package yield analysis
An interposer includes a first surface on a first side of the interposer and a second surface on a second side of the interposer, wherein the first and the second sides are opposite sides. A first probe pad is disposed at the first surface. An electrical connector is disposed at the first surface, wherein the electrical connector is configured to be used for bonding. A through-via is disposed in the interposer. Front-side connections are disposed on the first side of the interposer, wherein the front-side connections electrically couple the through-via to the probe pad.
US08878180B2 Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same
A more convenient and highly reliable semiconductor device which has a transistor including an oxide semiconductor with higher impact resistance used for a variety of applications is provided. A semiconductor device has a bottom-gate transistor including a gate electrode layer, a gate insulating layer, and an oxide semiconductor layer over a substrate, an insulating layer over the transistor, and a conductive layer over the insulating layer. The insulating layer covers the oxide semiconductor layer and is in contact with the gate insulating layer. In a channel width direction of the oxide semiconductor layer, end portions of the gate insulating layer and the insulating layer are aligned with each other over the gate electrode layer, and the conductive layer covers a channel formation region of the oxide semiconductor layer and the end portions of the gate insulating layer and the insulating layer and is in contact with the gate electrode layer.
US08878173B2 Semiconductor device including oxide semiconductor and metal oxide
An object is to provide a semiconductor device including an oxide semiconductor, which has stable electrical characteristics and improved reliability. In a transistor including an oxide semiconductor film, insulating films each including a material containing a Group 13 element and oxygen are formed in contact with the oxide semiconductor film, whereby the interfaces with the oxide semiconductor film can be kept in a favorable state. Further, the insulating films each include a region where the proportion of oxygen is higher than that in the stoichiometric composition, so that oxygen is supplied to the oxide semiconductor film; thus, oxygen defects in the oxide semiconductor film can be reduced. Furthermore, the insulating films in contact with the oxide semiconductor film each have a stacked structure so that films each containing aluminum are provided over and under the oxide semiconductor film, whereby entry of water into the oxide semiconductor film can be prevented.
US08878170B2 Optoelectronic semiconductor device
An optoelectronic semiconductor device has a carrier foil that includes a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. At least one electrically conductive contact layer is arranged on the first surface and covers the first surface in places and contains at least one metal. At least one radiation-emitting optoelectronic semiconductor component is arranged on an outer face, remote from the carrier foil, of the electrically conductive contact layer. The radiation-emitting, optoelectronic semiconductor component is electrically conductively connected to the at least one electrically conductive contact layer. The carrier foil is formed with at least one polymer or contains at least one polymer. At least one monomer of the polymer is formed with at least one C—F bond, with C denoting carbon and F fluorine.
US08878161B2 Tunnel diodes incorporating strain-balanced, quantum-confined heterostructures
A strain-balanced quantum well tunnel junction (SB-QWTJ) device. QW structures are formed from alternating quantum well and barrier layers situated between n++ and p++ layers in a tunnel junction formed on a substrate. The quantum well layers exhibit a compressive strain with respect to the substrate, while the barrier layers exhibit a tensile strain. The composition and layer thicknesses of the quantum well and barrier layers are configured so that the compressive and tensile strains in the structure are balanced.
US08878154B2 Semiconductor device with multiple space-charge control electrodes
A circuit including a semiconductor device having a set of space-charge control electrodes is provided. The set of space-charge control electrodes is located between a first terminal, such as a gate or a cathode, and a second terminal, such as a drain or an anode, of the device. The circuit includes a biasing network, which supplies an individual bias voltage to each of the set of space-charge control electrodes. The bias voltage for each space-charge control electrode can be: selected based on the bias voltages of each of the terminals and a location of the space-charge control electrode relative to the terminals and/or configured to deplete a region of the channel under the corresponding space-charge control electrode at an operating voltage applied to the second terminal.
US08878150B2 Electro-hydrodynamic wind energy system
A system for electro-hydrodynamically extracting energy from wind includes an upstream collector that is biased at an electric potential and induces an electric field. An injector introduces a particle into the electric field. The wind drag on the particle is at least partially opposed by a force of the electric field on the particle. A sensor monitors an ambient atmospheric condition, and a controller changes a parameter of the injector in response to a change in the atmospheric condition.
US08878149B2 Charged particle beam writing apparatus and charged particle beam writing method
A charged particle beam writing apparatus includes a storage unit configured to store writing data in which there are defined a plurality of figures and resizing information indicating, with respect to each of the plurality of figures, a resizing status whether or not to perform resizing and a resizing direction used when performing resizing, a judgment determination unit configured to input the writing data and judge, with respect to each of the plurality of figures, the resizing status whether or not to perform resizing and the resizing direction used when performing resizing, a resize processing unit configured to resize, with respect to each of the plurality of figures, a dimension of a figure concerned in a judged resizing direction when it is judged to perform resizing, and a writing unit configured to write a pattern onto a target workpiece with using a resized figure and a charged particle beam.
US08878148B2 Method and apparatus of pretreatment of an electron gun chamber
A method of pre-treating an ultra high vacuum charged particle gun chamber by ion stimulated desorption is provided. The method includes generating a plasma for providing a plasma ion source, and applying a negative potential to at least one surface in the gun chamber, wherein the negative potential is adapted for extracting an ion flux from the plasma ion source to the at least one surface for desorbing contamination particles from the at least one surface by the ion flux impinging on the at least one surface.
US08878146B2 Medical implants
Provided herein is methods of treating a medical implant and methods of using the same.
US08878143B2 Electron beam lithography device and lithographic method
A high-accuracy and high-speed lithographic pattern is acquired by forming a square lattice matrix beam group with an interval which is an integral multiple of a beam size in a two-dimensional plane, switching on and off the mesh of a device to be drawn by a bitmap signal, forming a desired beam shape, deflecting the beam to a necessary position, and radiating a beam with a whole blanker being opened after the beam state is stabilized. On and off signals and a vector scan signal of each beam are provided, and the whole blanker is released after the beam is stabilized, and thus high-accuracy and high-speed lithography is performed with a small amount of data. When the total number of shots exceeds a constant value, the pattern data are modified and high-speed lithography is achieved. A semiconductor reversed bias p-n junction technique is preferably used for an individual blanker electrode.
US08878142B2 Charged particle beam irradiation apparatus
A charged particle beam irradiation apparatus includes: a transport line configured to transport a charged particle beam; and a rotating gantry rotatable around a rotation axis, wherein the transport line has an inclined section configured to make the charged particle beam advancing in a direction of the rotation axis advance to be inclined so as to become more distant from the rotation axis, and is formed so as to turn the charged particle beam advanced in the inclined section to a rotational direction of the rotation axis and bend the charged particle beam turned to the rotational direction to the rotation axis side, the rotating gantry is formed of a tubular body which can accommodate an irradiated body and supports the transport line, and the inclined section is disposed to pass through the inside of the tubular body of the rotating gantry.
US08878137B2 Photo detector of an X-ray imager
An X-ray imager includes a photo detector, a pixel array, a scan line and a data line. The photo detector includes a plurality of X-ray sensitive particles that are configured to be electrically isolating and to generate charge carriers upon absorption of X-ray photons. In one example embodiment, the photo detector includes a layer of an electrically isolating material, within which the plurality of X-ray sensitive particles are distributed. The pixel array includes multiple pixels each defined by a space between a first surface and a second surface of the layer. The scan line is configured to activate a corresponding row of the pixels in the pixel array. The data line is configured to read data from a corresponding column of the pixels in the pixel array.
US08878134B2 Photoconductive antenna, terahertz wave generating device, camera, imaging device, and measuring device
A photoconductive antenna is adapted to generate terahertz waves when irradiated by pulsed light. The photoconductive antenna includes a first conductive region, a second conductive region, and a semiconductor region. The second conductive region is spaced apart from the first conductive region to form a gap therebetween in a top plan view of the photoconductive antenna. The semiconductor region is positioned in the gap between the first conductive region and the second conductive region in the top plan view. An interfacial surface of the semiconductor region positioned in the gap is flush with first interfacial surfaces of the first and second conductive regions. Second interfacial surfaces of the first and second conductive regions positioned on an opposite side from the first interfacial surfaces are positioned on the same side with respect to the interfacial surface of the semiconductor region positioned in the gap.
US08878125B2 Encoder with gear mechanism and optical encoder device
Provided herein is an encoder including a position detecting device provided with a gear mechanism and an optical encoder device. A housing includes a bearing holder provided between a first housing portion and a second housing portion of the housing. The bearing holder serves as a partition wall portion configured to separate the gear mechanism from the optical encoder device. If the gear mechanism is separated from the optical encoder device, abrasion powder or grease can be reliably prevented from scattering from the gear mechanism to adhere to constituent parts of the optical encoder device.
US08878124B2 Optical touch device having an auxiliary light guide component disposed between the two neighboring ends of first and second light guide components
An optical touch device with a detecting area includes light guide components, a light source module, a light detecting component and an auxiliary light guide component. Each light guide component includes a first light emitting surface. The light guide components includes a first light guide component and a second light guide component. The auxiliary light guide component and the light detecting component are disposed between two neighboring ends of the first light guide component and the second light guide component, and the light detecting component includes a light detecting end. The auxiliary light guide component is positioned between the light detecting component and the detecting area and includes a first light incidence surface, a second light incidence surface and a second light emitting surface connected between the first light incidence surface and the second light incidence surface. The optical touch device can effectively avoid the blind zone problem.
US08878122B2 Two dimensional solid-state image pickup device with a light condensing element including protrusions separated by recesses
A two-dimensional solid-state image pickup device includes a plurality of pixel regions arranged in a two-dimensional matrix in X and Y directions. Each of the pixel regions includes at least a light-receiving element, and a light-condensing element. The light-condensing element is a sub-wavelength lens including protrusions each having a size equivalent to or smaller than a wavelength of an electromagnetic wave incident on the light-receiving element. Each of the protrusions has a rounded edge.
US08878118B2 Capacitance selectable charge pump
A step-up converter includes an input coupled to receive a first voltage potential and an output coupled to output a second voltage potential higher than the first voltage potential. The step-up converter also includes an array of capacitance charge pumps. Each of the capacitance charge pumps in the array includes switches to be modulated to individually run each of the capacitance charge pumps by selectively connecting each of the capacitance charge pumps to the input and the output. The step-up converter further includes a control module coupled to the switches of each of the capacitance charge pumps and configured to modulate the switches at a substantially fixed frequency. The control module modulates the switches of selected capacitance charge pumps in the array in response to a current draw on the output. The step-up converter may be included in an image sensor.
US08878115B2 Photoelectric conversion element, and photoelectric conversion apparatus and imaging system having a light guide
A light condensing member focuses light, which is incident upon a first area of the light condensing member corresponding to an opening portion of an insulation film, in an upper portion region of a light path member arranged within the opening portion, the insulation film having an upper face extending from the opening portion, and the light path member having a lower face in a region corresponding to a light receiving face of an photoelectric conversion portion.
US08878114B2 Apparatus and methods for locating source of and analyzing electromagnetic radiation
Detectors and methods for gathering, detecting and analyzing electromagnetic radiation are disclosed. A radiation detector includes one or more positive lenses to direct radiation to mirrors or to a photodetector. Coordinates of directed radiation are measured and interpreted to determine the angle of arrival. A color filter mosaic may be present to determine wavelengths of detected radiation. Temporal characteristics of the radiation may be measured.
US08878111B2 Bidirectional control surfaces for use with high speed vehicles, and associated systems and methods
Vehicles with bidirectional control surfaces and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In a particular embodiment, a rocket can include a plurality of bidirectional control surfaces positioned toward an aft portion of the rocket. In this embodiment, the bidirectional control surfaces can be operable to control the orientation and/or flight path of the rocket during both ascent, in a nose-first orientation, and descent, in a tail-first orientation for, e.g., a tail-down landing.
US08878109B2 Package conveyor for continuous process microwave applicator
A mechanism for constraining a product package as it is conveyed through a microwave applicator. In one preferred embodiment, the conveyor is provided by a pair of parallel guide belts arranged to travel through a microwave applicator. The guide belts have a series of slots or other guide elements formed therein. The guide elements engage edges of the product packages. In one arrangement, the pair of belts are disposed on either side of a series of packages, and thus constrain the location of the packages in three dimensions.
US08878108B2 Induction heating cooker and kitchen unit having the same
An induction heating cooker in which a size of heating coils can be freely set without being restricted by a size of an opening of a cabinet of a kitchen unit. The induction heating cooker has an outer casing including a flange extending in an outward direction from a top portion of a container receptacle, with a heating coil container space being provided between the flange and a plate, such that one portion of each of the heating coils is disposed in the heating coil container space.
US08878107B2 Multi-level and vertical assembling type PTFE heater and methods of manufacture thereof
The present invention relates to a multi-level and vertical assembling type PTFE heater and the methods of manufacture thereof. Said heater includes a vertical frame assembled by multi-poles and upper and lower retaining plates. Several levels of PTFE sleeves and electrical heating belts are alternatively disposed on the multi-poles. The number of the poles is determined in accordance with the size and capacity of a heater desired and the power and levels of PTFE electrical heating belts with heating needs. Multiple levels of PTFE electrical heating belts are formed in an assembling way, by which heaters with varied powers are easily produced and with the elements replaceable, will not be wholly wasted in event of an element damaged, thus the heater service life prolonged. Said heater has a better heating result than the one with only a single level of heating structure.
US08878102B2 Base structures, scent warmers including such base structures, and related methods
Base structures for use with a scent warmer comprise a support structure configured to receive thereon an at least substantially hollow member defining a cavity. An electrical connector extends from the support structure. A power cord connector extending from the support structure is electrically connected to the electrical connector using a rigid electrical connection and configured to physically secure and electrically communicate with a power cord. Methods of making a base structure for use with a scent warmer comprise configuring a support structure to receive thereon an at least substantially hollow member defining a cavity. An electrical connector that extends from the support structure is formed. A power cord connector configured to physically secure and electrically communicate with a power cord is electrically connected with the electrical connector using a rigid electrical connection.
US08878097B2 Wire feeder with curved force generating element(s) for better positioning of an adjusting mechanism
An apparatus for feeding a wire. The apparatus includes at least one pair of rotatable rollers and at least one curved or curvable force-generating element. The at least one curved or curvable force-generating element is capable of applying a force via a proximal end of the at least one curved or curvable force-generating element to displace a first roller of the at least one pair of rotatable rollers towards a second roller of the at least one pair of the rotatable rollers to engage a wire there between. The apparatus further includes an adjustment mechanism operationally connected at a distal end of the at least one curved or curvable force-generating element to allow adjustment of the applied force.
US08878095B2 Reducing back-reflection in laser micromachining systems
Systems and methods reduce or prevent back-reflections in a laser processing system. A system includes a laser source to generate an incident laser beam, a laser beam output to direct the incident laser beam toward a work surface along a beam path, and a spatial filter. The system further includes a beam expander to expand a diameter of the incident laser beam received through the spatial filter, and a scan lens to focus the expanded incident laser beam at a target location on a work surface. A reflected laser beam from the work surface returns through the scan lens to the beam expander, which reduces a diameter of the reflected beam and increases a divergence angle of the reflected laser beam. The spatial filter blocks a portion of the diverging reflected laser beam from passing through the aperture and returning to the laser beam output.
US08878092B2 Gas-insulated switchgear
A gas-insulated switchgear includes a fixed-side electrode having a tubular fixed-side-conducting contact and a fixed-side shield for housing the fixed-side-conducting contact, and a movable-side electrode having a movable conductor driven by a driving unit to be connected to and separated from the fixed-side-conducting contact, facing each other in a container filled with an insulating gas. The switchgear includes a fixed-side-arc shield in the form of a circular plate, which is made of an arc-resistant member and has an opening of a diameter larger than the outer diameter of the movable conductor, the opening being formed on the side of the fixed-side shield facing the movable-side electrode. The fixed-side-arc shield is formed into a thin plate so as to cause an arc current to flow outward in a radial direction during contact parting of the fixed-side-conducting contact and the movable conductor to generate magnetic flux on a surface thereof in a circumferential direction.
US08878087B2 Illuminated resilient pressing member
The instant disclosure is a resilient pressing member structure having a pressing unit disposed on top of a translucent insulated layer, an upper cover, a light-emitting unit, two conductive layers and a spacer. The pressing unit includes a plurality of pressing members while the cover is formed with a cavity filled with a fluid to achieve the effect of pressure dispersion. A light guiding structure and a light reflecting structure are disposed on the topside and the backside of the insulated layer, respectively. The insulated layer is formed by at least one light unit opening which extends through the insulated layer. The light-emitting unit is hosted inside the light unit opening. Light from the light-emitting unit penetrates the insulated layer and reaches the pressing member. Then the guiding structure directs light while the reflecting structure reflects light towards the pressing member, thus illuminates the pressing member.
US08878086B2 Luminous keyboard
A luminous keyboard includes a light-emitting element, a membrane circuit member, a key base plate, and plural keys. The membrane circuit member includes an upper wiring board and a lower wiring board. A first circuit pattern is formed on the lower wiring board. A second circuit pattern is formed on the upper wiring board. The first circuit pattern and the second circuit pattern collectively define plural membrane switches. The lower wiring board further includes plural film layers for increasing the light-guiding efficacy of the lower wiring board. Moreover, the plural keys are connected to the key base plate. The key base plate is arranged between the plural keys and the membrane circuit member.
US08878084B2 Movable contact holder
A movable contact includes a contact base and a contact body upstanding from an end of the contact base. The holder includes a first holding portion constructed to hold the contact base such that the first holding portion is in contact with one surface of the contact base, the surface being opposite an other surface of the contact base from which the movable contact upstands, a second holding portion constructed to hold the contact base such that the second holding portion is in contact with the other surface of the contact base at a distal end of the contact base with reference to the contact body, and a disengagement-prevention portion provided at a proximal end of the contact base with reference to the contact body, on the one side of the contact base, and spaced away from the contact base, and constructed to prevent the movable contact from being detached from the holder.
US08878083B2 Button key assembly and electronic apparatus that employs the button key assembly
Button keys, resilient supports and a frame are molded in one piece such that the button keys are resiliently movable and are spaced apart by a gap. Each of the button keys includes an engagement portion. A case includes a button hole formed therein. The case is assembled to the frame such that the button keys are received in the button hole. After the case has been assembled to the frame such that the plurality of adjacent button keys are received in the button hole and such that the engagement portion abuts a perimeter portion of the button hole, the second gap being smaller than the first gap.
US08878082B2 Touch-control writing tool
A touch-control writing tool wherein the pipe body of the touch-control writing tool has a long through hole and an opening on one end thereof. A rotating element is pivotally provided on the end of the opening of the pipe body. The writing head of a rod body goes through and protrudes from the rotating element. The rotating element drives the rod body to perform an axial displacement in the long through hole via the transmission component in the long through hole, thereby adjusting the length of the writing head outside the rotating element.
US08878081B2 Touch panel and display device having the same with second connector attached to a second side of the substrate
A touch panel including a transparent substrate having an active area and an inactive area on a circumference of the active area; a plurality of X-axis and Y-axis electrodes; a first controller attached to a first side of the transparent substrate including the inactive area, and including a driving IC configured to control the X-axis and Y-axis electrode sensors; a second controller attached to a second side of the transparent substrate including the inactive area, in which the second side is opposite to the first side; a plurality of lead lines provided to the inactive area and connecting each of the X-axis and Y-axis electrode sensors with one of the first and second controllers; and a signal channel connecting the second controller to the driving IC of the first controller and being spaced away from the transparent substrate including the X-axis and Y-axis electrode sensors and the lead lines.
US08878075B2 Connecting structure and a display device with said connecting structure
Providing a connecting structure for connecting first electrodes formed on the upper surface of a first substrate to second electrodes formed on the upper surface of a second substrate glued on the upper surface of the first substrate by an electrically conductive member, wherein the second substrate is smaller in its outer size than the first substrate, the first electrodes are arranged on the first substrate around the periphery of the second substrate, a gap is formed between the first and second substrates at the peripheral edge of the second substrate, an insulating resin is arranged near the first electrodes so as to cover portions of the side surfaces of the second substrate and to fill the gap between the first and second substrates, and the electrically conductive member is arranged over regions leading from the first electrodes through the insulating resin to the second electrodes.
US08878064B2 Flexible printed circuit board
A flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) includes a main portion and a number of interfaces connected to the main portion. The main portion incorporates a low-voltage differential signal (LVDS) cable and at least one function cable. The main portion includes a first connecting strip, a second connecting strip, and a third connecting strip, which are all connected together at one end. The interfaces includes a first interface connected to the first connecting strip, a second interface connected to the second connecting strip, and a third interface connected to the third connecting strip. The first interface incorporates a LVDS interface and a function module interface. The second interface is a LVDS interface. The third interface is a function module interface.
US08878063B2 Charge transfer zero loss power and signal transmission cable
The layers of electric conducting material 18 formed into a charging folded closed loop 20 and a discharging folded closed loop 20 with the apex of the fold 22 of each folded closed loops in opposition to each other, being the ends of the cable, are separated from each other by a dielectric material 19, thereby making capacitive contact and creating opposing electric fields for each cycle of the alternating current, thereby transmitting an alternating current at constant voltage from a power supply to a point of transmission.
US08878061B2 Positioner and composite curl cord
In a positioner according to the present invention, the rotating table and a hollow shaft is rotated by a motor via a speed reduction gear. In such a configuration, an air tube and a cable which supplies the air or electric power used to operate a jib on the rotating table are provided via the rotary joint arranged at one end of the shaft. A communication device may be provided on the rotating table by detaching the rotary joint and arranging a composite curl cord. The communication device may be provided by the rotary joint and a wireless communication device without using the composite curl cord.
US08878057B2 Device for grounding
Device for establishing an efficient grounding of an installation of different types includes one or more cables, wherein the ground rail or ground conductor, ground rails or ground conductors or ground point or ground points of the installation being grounded by the one or more cables including a combination of electrically conductive wires or conductors in at least one inner core and at least one outer layer which surrounds the inner core wholly or partly, and the cable or the cables are laid in one and the same or each in a separate bore in ground and/or rock of a considerable depth, preferably more than 200 m, e.g. 240 m or more.
US08878056B2 Solar energy conversion device and method
A device and method for producing electricity by harnessing sunlight to produce an amplified voltage signal, the device including: (a) a sealed chamber, defined by a transparent housing; (b) an excitable medium, disposed within the chamber, in which, when the medium is exposed to solar light having wavelengths in a range of 0.2 to 3 micrometers, bound electrons in the excitable medium are elevated to at least one higher energy state; (c) electrodes, disposed in a spaced apart fashion, whereby the medium is between, and fluidly communicates with, the electrodes; (d) an electric circuit, the medium and the electrodes completing the circuit; (e) an initiating mechanism, adapted to initiate an initial voltage signal through the chamber, between the electrodes, and (f) a power source, associated with the circuit, and adapted to maintain the first voltage signal through the chamber, between the electrodes, whereby the bound electrons in the higher energy state transfer energy to free electrons traversing the first voltage signal to produce the amplified voltage signal, and wherein the excitable medium is selected, and adapted within the chamber, to absorb at least 5% of an energy flux within a wavelength range of 0.2 to 3 micrometers, emitted by a black body operating at 5500K, by elevating the bound electrons to the higher energy state.
US08878055B2 Efficient nanoscale solar cell and fabrication method
A photovoltaic device and method include a substrate layer having a plurality of structures including peaks and troughs formed therein. A continuous photovoltaic stack is conformally formed over the substrate layer and extends over the peaks and troughs. The photovoltaic stack has a thickness of less than one micron and is configured to transduce incident radiation into current flow.
US08878046B2 Adjusting a level at which to generate a new tone with a current generated tone
Provided are a tone control device and a method for adjusting a volume level at which to generate a new tone and at least one current tone according to a target volume level and a current volume level. A note-on event associated with a received volume level is received from an input device. A current volume level is processed to determine a new volume level in response to receiving the note-on event while generating at least one current tone at the current volume level. The at least one current tone and a new tone associated with the received note-on event are generated at the new volume level.
US08878045B2 Acoustic effect impartment apparatus, and piano
An acoustic effect impartment apparatus detects striking of any one of strings by a corresponding hammer in an acoustic piano like a grand piano, and vibrates a vibration section with a driving waveform signal obtained by synthesizing sine wave signals of the fundamental frequency and harmonic frequency of the hammer-struck string. Such vibration of the vibration section is transmitted to the keys via a soundboard and bridge of the piano. Thus, vibration is excited in the hammer-struck string by the striking with the hammer but also by the driving waveform signal, so that an acoustic effect corresponding to the driving waveform signal is imparted. Because the driving waveform signal is a simple signal using the sine wave signals corresponding to the fundamental frequency of the string, a natural feeling of the acoustic piano will not be lost even when the acoustic effect is imparted.
US08878043B2 Systems, methods, and apparatus for music composition
Systems, apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture provide for determining one or more chords and/or music notes to output (e.g., via a mobile device) based on a direction of movement and/or a speed of movement (e.g., of a mobile device). In some embodiments, determining a music note for output may comprise determining whether a speed of a mobile device has increased, decreased, or remained constant.
US08878038B1 Adjustable percussion mounting
A device for mounting a percussion instrument with a strap handle including a bracket mounted on a horizontal support bar, where the bracket has a pinion parallel to the support bar at and held at a fixed radial angle relative to the support bar, and an option pivot over the pinion to fit inside the handle of the instrument, such that the strap handle fits over the pinion and the instrument dangles from the pinion and is thus free to swing in the direction away from the bar but is blocked by the bar or the bracket from swinging in the direction of the bar.
US08878037B2 Musical instrument mechanically activated
A mechanically activated musical instrument mainly for public use is preferably installed in open areas such as parks, plazas, cultural centers and the like. The mechanically activated musical instrument has similarities with a carillon, but having a mechanical activation system handled directly by one or more persons. The mechanically activated musical instrument has a sustentation structure (2), multiple sound tubes (3), multiple support structures (4) and multiple actuation mechanisms (5). The mechanically activated musical instrument (1) has a configuration in which the multiple sound tubes (3), the multiple support structures (4) and the multiple actuation mechanisms (5) are arranged on one face of the sustentation structure with the multiple sound tubes (3) disposed parallel to the face of the sustentation structure (2).
US08878035B2 String depressing device for a stringed musical instrument
A string depressing device is useable to fret at least one string of a stringed musical instrument. The string depressing device includes a frame that, when adjacent to a fingerboard of the stringed musical instrument, extends both along and across the fingerboard and above the strings. A plurality of protruding compressible resilient members extend from the frame toward the fingerboard. When the frame is pressed against the fingerboard, each protruding member sufficiently depresses an underlying string to fret that string. In an operative position, some of the protruding members are positioned over corresponding strings at desired positions along the fingerboard. A capo can be placed around the neck of the stringed instrument and over the frame to press the frame towards the fingerboard. This presses at least some protruding members against corresponding strings, and effectively frets those strings against the fingerboard at the desired positions to form a musical chord.
US08878031B1 Maize variety hybrid X03B503
A novel maize variety designated X03B503 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X03B503 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X03B503 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X03B503, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X03B503. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X03B503.
US08878029B2 Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH504577
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH504577. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH504577, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH504577 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH504577.
US08878027B2 Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH732605
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH732605. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH732605, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH732605 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH732605.
US08878024B2 Plants and seeds of sorghum variety GSV206860
According to the invention, there is provided plants and plant parts of the variety designated GSV206860. The invention also relates to methods for using a GSV206860 plant to produce various plants and plant parts.
US08878023B2 Soybean variety XB32AE13
A novel soybean variety, designated XB32AE13 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XB32AE13, cells from soybean variety XB32AE13, plants of soybean XB32AE13, and plant parts of soybean variety XB32AE13. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XB32AE13 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XB32AE13, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XB32AE13, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XB32AE13. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XB32AE13 are further provided.
US08878020B2 Soybean cultivar S110226
A soybean cultivar designated S110226 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar S110226, to the plants of soybean cultivar S110226, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar S110226, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar S110226. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S110226. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S110226, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar S110226 with another soybean cultivar.
US08878019B2 Soybean cultivar S110123
A soybean cultivar designated S110123 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar S110123, to the plants of soybean cultivar S110123, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar S110123, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar S110123. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S110123. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S110123, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar S110123 with another soybean cultivar.
US08878009B2 Plants and seeds of spring canola variety SCV318181
In an embodiment, the invention relates to the seeds, plants, and plant parts of canola line SCV318181 and to methods for producing a canola plant produced by crossing canola line SCV318181 with itself or with another canola line. The invention also relates to methods for producing a canola plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic canola plants and plant parts produced by those methods. This invention also relates to canola lines or breeding lines and plant parts derived from canola line SCV318181, to methods for producing other canola lines, lines or plant parts derived from canola line SCV318181 and to the canola plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid canola seeds, plants and plant parts produced by crossing the line SCV318181 with another canola line.
US08878006B2 Plants having enhanced yield-related traits and a method for making the same
The present invention relates generally to the field of molecular biology and concerns a method for enhancing plant yield-related traits relative to control plants. More specifically, the present invention concerns a method for enhancing yield related traits in plants relative to control plants, by modulating, preferably increasing, expression in the roots of a plant, of a nucleic acid sequence encoding a 2-cysteine peroxiredoxin (2-Cys PRX); or by modulating expression of a nucleic acid encoding an ANN polypeptide in a plant. The present invention also concerns plants having modulated, preferably increased, expression in the roots, of a nucleic acid sequence encoding a 2-Cys PRX, or having modulated expression of a nucleic acid encoding an ANN polypeptide, which plants have enhanced yield-related traits relative to control plants. The invention also provides constructs useful in the methods of the invention.
US08877997B2 Quench tower catalyst recovery
A process and apparatus is presented for the removal of solid particles from a gas stream. The process and apparatus includes adding a second stream of liquid that is sprayed over the openings in trays in a quench tower. The second spray stream provides for a veil of liquid to wash out solid particles from the vapor stream.
US08877996B2 Alkylated aromatics production
Disclosed is a process for the production of alkylated aromatics by contacting a feed stream comprising an alkylatable aromatic, an alkylating agent and trace amounts of water and impurities in the presence of a first catalyst and an alkylation catalyst wherein such water and impurities are removed in order to improve the cycle length of such alkylation catalysts. Water and at least a portion of impurities are removed in a dehydration zone. A reaction zone having a first catalyst which, in some embodiments is a large pore molecular sieve, acts to remove another portion of impurities, such as nitrogenous and other species. An alkylation zone having an alkylation catalyst which, in some embodiments is a medium pore molecular sieve or a MCM-22 family material, acts to remove additional impurities, and to alkylate the alkylatable aromatic compound.
US08877990B2 Process of making a chlorinated hydrocarbon
A process of making a chlorinated hydrocarbon through a thermal dehydrochlorination step in which an unsaturated compound represented by the following general formula (2) is obtained by thermally decomposing a saturated compound represented by the following general formula (1). CCl3—CCl2-mHm—CCl3-nHn  (1) CCl2═CCl2-mHm-1—CCl3-nHn  (2) (in the above formulas, m is 1 or 2, and n is an integer of 0 to 3.)
US08877989B2 Dehydration process of hydrofluorocarbon or hydrochlorofluorocarbon and production method of 1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene using the dehydration process
A process for dehydrating a hydrofluorocarbon or hydrochlorofluorocarbon, which can be done by simple equipment, and a continuous process of producing 1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene using the dehydration process. The dehydration process includes cooling the hydrofluorocarbon or hydrochlorofluorocarbon in gaseous form containing water with a heat exchanger, thereby condensing and liquefying the hydrofluorocarbon or hydrochlorofluorocarbon while freezing and solidifying the water. The 1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene production method includes a first step for fluorinating 1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene with hydrogen fluoride to obtain a mixture of 1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene, unreacted 1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene, hydrogen fluoride, hydrogen chloride and by-products, or dehydrofluorinating 1,1,1,3,3-pentafluoropropane to obtain a mixture of 1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene, unreacted 1,1,1,3,3-pentafluoropropane and by-products, a second step for removing acidic components, a third step for dehydrating the 1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene by the above dehydration process, and a fourth step for purifying the 1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene by distillation.
US08877988B2 Synthesis of 1-BROM0-3,3,3-trifluoropropene
In accordance with the present invention, processes for producing bromofluoropropenes in commercial quantities by reacting 3,3,3-trifluoropropyne with hydrogen bromide at elevated temperatures are provided.
US08877984B2 Process for the preparation of 1,3-cyclohexanedimethanol from isophthalic acid
Disclosed is a process for the preparation of 1,3-cyclohexanedimethanol from isophthalic acid. Isophthalic acid is esterified with (3-methylcyclohexyl)methanol and the isophthalate ester hydrogenated to 1,3-cyclohexanedimethanol in a 2-stage process. The (3-methylcyclohexyl)methanol that is formed during the hydrogenation step is recycled to the esterification reaction. Also disclosed is a method for purifying and recovering the 1,3-cyclohexanedimethanol product.
US08877981B2 Integrated process for preparing acrolein and 3-methylmercaptopropionaldehyde
A process to produce 3-methylmercaptopropionaldehyde is provided. The process comprises: A) oxidizing a mixture of propylene and inert diluent gases with air over a heterogeneous catalyst to obtain a gaseous oxidation reaction mixture comprising acrolein and by-products; B) quenching the gaseous oxidation reaction mixture to obtain a gas stream comprising acrolein and a quench liquid comprising residual acrolein and the by-products; C) stripping the acrolein from the by-products of the quench liquid and returning the stripped acrolein to the quench; D) absorbing a first portion of the gas stream comprising acrolein from the quench B) in water to obtain an aqueous acrolein solution and an uncondensable gaseous stream comprising inert gases; D1) recycling at least a portion of the uncondensable gaseous stream to the oxidation A) to supply the inert diluent gases; E) distilling the acrolein from the aqueous acrolein solution to obtain an acrolein-free aqueous bottom product; E1) condensing the distilled acrolein; F) reacting the distilled acrolein E1) and the gas stream comprising acrolein B) with methyl mercaptan in a mixture comprising at least one of 3-methylmercaptopropionaldehyde and a hemithioacetal of methyl mercaptan and 3-methylmercaptopropionaldehyde to obtain the 3-methylmercaptopropionaldehyde.
US08877980B2 Phenylboronic acid
The present invention relates to a specific phenylboronic acid compound having anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial activity, in addition to a pharmaceutical composition comprising the same. The present invention also discloses a process for preparing said compound. The compound is represented by the formula (I):
US08877979B2 Polyhydroxy-diamines as multi-functional additives for paints, coatings and epoxies
Provided are polyhydroxy-diamine compounds of the formula I: or salt thereof, wherein R1, R2, and R3 are as defined herein. The compounds are useful as low additives for paints, coatings and epoxy formulations.
US08877972B2 Alkylene oxide-adducted hydrocarbyl amides
A process is described for preparing alkylene oxide-adducted hydrocarbyl amides having less than 2 wt % of amine by-products by a) reacting a C4-C30 fatty acid or fatty acid lower alkyl ester with a mono- or di-hydroxy hydrocarbyl amine to form a hydrocarbyl amide; b) reacting the hydrocarbyl amide with alkylene oxide; and c) extracting the product of b) with water, acidic water, or water-containing inorganic salts or a combination thereof at a temperature from about 5° C. to 95° C. to yield an alkylene oxide-adducted hydrocarbyl amide having less than 2 wt % of amine by-products.
US08877970B2 Inhibitors of carbonic anhydrase IX
Novel radiopharmaceuticals that are useful in diagnostic imaging and therapeutic treatment of disease characterized by over expression of CA-IX comprise a complex that contains a sulfonamide moiety which is capable of binding the active catalytic site of CA-IX, and a radionuclide adapted for radioimaging and/or radiotherapy:
US08877968B2 Melanocortin receptor modulators, process for preparing them and use there in human medicine and cosmetics
Melanocortin receptor modulators, processes for preparing them and use thereof in human medicine and cosmetics are described. Melanocortin receptor modulators corresponding to formula (I): compositions containing them, processes for their preparation and their use in pharmaceutical or cosmetic compositions are also described.
US08877966B2 Process for preparing acrylic acid from methanol and acetic acid
A process for preparing acrylic acid from methanol and acetic acid, in which, in a reaction zone A, the methanol is partially oxidized to formaldehyde in a heterogeneously catalyzed gas phase reaction, the product gas mixture A obtained and an acetic acid source are used to obtain a reaction gas input mixture B which comprises acetic acid and formaldehyde and has the acetic acid in excess over the formaldehyde, and the formaldehyde present in reaction gas input mixture B is aldol-condensed to acrylic acid under heterogeneous catalysis in a reaction zone B with acetic acid present in reaction gas input mixture B, and unconverted acetic acid still present alongside the acrylic acid target product in the product gas mixture B obtained is removed therefrom, and the acetic acid removed is recycled into the production of reaction gas input mixture B.
US08877961B2 Bridged monobactam intermediates
C1-C6Alkyloxy- or benzyloxy-carbonyl esters of -{3-[(E)-(1-phenyl or naphthyl C1-C4alkyl)-imino]-propyl}-amino)-acetic acid, which are intermediates for producing known bridged monobactam compounds useful in the treatment of bacterial infections.
US08877960B2 Fluoroalkanesulfonic acid ammonium salts and method for producing same
When sulfinating a carboxylic acid bromofluoroalkyl ester by using a sulfinating agent, an organic base is used, thereby obtaining a fluoroalkanesulfinic acid ammonium salt. This is oxidized to obtain a fluoroalkanesulfonic acid ammonium salt. This is used as the raw material and is converted to an onium salt or is converted to an onium salt by going through saponification and esterification, thereby obtaining a fluoroalkanesulfonic acid onium salt. This fluoroalkanesulfonic acid onium salt is useful as a photoacid generator used for chemically amplified resist materials, etc.
US08877948B2 Synthesis process of polyol carbonate from polyols, conducted in using a solvent selective for polyols carbonates
The present invention relates to a synthesis process of polyol carbonate, such as glycerol carbonate, from polyols such as glycerol, propylene glycol or ethylene glycol and urea conducted in using a solvent selective for polyols (glycerol) carbonates. Said process comprises reacting polyol with urea in the presence of a catalyst, extracting produced NH3 and in addition in the presence in the course of at least one step of the process of a selective solvent for polyol carbonate allowing to extract it from the reaction medium.
US08877945B2 Redox drug derivatives
The present invention provides redox drug derivatives. In particular, 9-fluoro-2,3-dihydro-3-methyl-10-(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)-7-oxo-7H-pyrido[1,2,3-de]-1,4-benzoxazine-6-carboxylic acid, 1-ethyl-6-fluoro-1,4-dihydro-7-(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)-4-oxo-3-quinolinecarboxylic acid, (3R,4R,5S)-4-(acetylamino)-5-amino-3-(1-ethylpropoxy)-1-cyclohexene-1-carboxylic acid ethyl ester, (3S)-3-(aminomethyl)-5-methylhexanoic acid, (3S)-1-[2-(2,3-dihydro-5-benzofuranyl)ethyl]-α-α-diphenyl-3-pyrrolidineacetamide, (1S,2S,3S,4R)-3-[(1S)-1-acetamido-2-ethyl-butyl]-4-(diaminomethylideneamino)-2-hydroxy-cyclopentane-1-carboxylic acid and (2R,3R,4S)-4-[(diaminomethylidene)amino]-3-acetamido-2-[(1R,2R)-1,2,3-trihydroxypropyl]-3,4-dihydro-2H-pyran-6-carboxylic acid redox derivatives.
US08877938B2 Compounds containing S-N-valeryl-N-{[2′-(1H-tetrazole-5-yl)-biphenyl-4-yl]-methyl}-valine and (2R,4S)-5-biphenyl-4-yl-4-(3-carboxy-propionylamino)-2-methyl-pentanoic acid ethyl ester moieties and cations
A compound of an angiotensin receptor antagonist (ARB), a neutral endopeptidase inhibitor (NEPi) and one or more monovalent cations are useful for the treatment of hypertension and/or heart failure. ARB includes S—N-valeryl-N-{[2′-(1H-tetrazole-5-yl)-biphenyl-4-yl]-methyl}-valine in the anion form, NEPi includes (2R,4S)-5-biphenyl-4-yl-4-(3-carboxy-propionylamino)-2-methyl-pentanoic acid ethyl ester in the anion form and cation includes monovalent cations such as Na+. The compound includes trisodium [3-((1S,3R)-1-biphenyl-4-ylmethyl-3-ethoxycarbonyl-1-butylcarbamoyl)propionate-(S)-3′-methyl-2′-(pentanoyl{2″-(tetrazol-5-ylate)biphenyl-4′-ylmethyl}amino)butyrate] hemipentahydrate.
US08877932B2 Anhydrous lenalidomide form-I
Anhydrous polymorphic form-I of anti cancer drug, Lenalidomide whose chemical name is 3-(4-amino-1-oxo-1, 3-dihydro-isoindole-2-yl)-piperidine-2,6-dione, is disclosed. Alternate methods for making anhydrous polymorphic form-I of Lenalidomide are also disclosed.
US08877927B2 Furo[3,2-B] pyrrol -3-one derivatives and their use as cysteinyl proteinase inhibitors
The present invention relates to compounds of formula (I), and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, A compound of formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, hydrate, complex or pro-drug thereof (I), wherein: one of R1 and R2 is H, and the other is selected from F and Cl, or R1 and R2 are both F; R3 is selected from cyclopentyl and cyclohexyl; R4 is an optionally substituted 5- or 6-membered monocyclic or an 8- to 10-membered bicyclic aryl or heteroaryl ring which includes up to four heteroatoms. The invention further relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising compounds of formula (I), and the use of such compounds in the treatment of a disease selected from osteoporosis, Paget's disease, Chagas's disease, malaria, gingival diseases, hypercalaemia, metabolic bone disease, diseases involving matrix or cartilage degradation, and bone cancer disorders such as bone metastases and associated pain.
US08877924B2 Benzyl substituted triazine derivatives and their therapeutical applications
The invention provides triazine compounds and methods of their use to modulate protein kinases and to treat diseases mediated by said protein kinases.
US08877920B2 Method and plant for purifying a carbohydrate rich liquid
Described is a method for preparing a purified liquid containing carbohydrates. The method comprises the steps of: hydrolysing starch to a dextrose equivalent (DE) of 10 or above, thus obtaining a liquid of carbohydrates; removing a heavy weight sludge fraction from the light weight liquid of carbohydrates using centrifugation; filtering the remaining liquid of carbohydrates, the filter being capable of retaining coarser particles while allowing particles with a diameter less than 2 μm to pass; performing membrane separation on the filtered liquid of carbohydrates using a membrane having a pore size at 2 μm or below; and recovering a permeate stream of purified liquid containing carbohydrates. Also disclosed in a plant for performing the method.
US08877916B2 Promoter, promoter control elements, and combinations, and uses thereof
The present invention provides DNA molecules that constitute fragments of the genome of a plant, and polypeptides encoded thereby. The DNA molecules are useful for specifying a gene product in cells, either as a promoter or as a protein coding sequence or as an UTR or as a 3′ termination sequence, and are also useful in controlling the behavior of a gene in the chromosome, in controlling the expression of a gene or as tools for genetic mapping, recognizing or isolating identical or related DNA fragments, or identification of a particular individual organism, or for clustering of a group of organisms with a common trait. One of ordinary skill in the art, having this data, can obtain cloned DNA fragments, synthetic DNA fragments or polypeptides constituting desired sequences by recombinant methodology known in the art or described herein.
US08877913B2 Anti-CD4 antibody
An anti-CD4 antibody which binds to CD4, has a high affinity and has a high effector activity, such as an antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC activity) or complement-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (CDC activity), is required for a disease relating to a CD4-expressing cell.The present invention can provide a monoclonal antibody or an antibody fragment thereof, which binds to a CD4 extracellular region with high affinity and also exhibits a high ADCC activity or a high CDC activity; a hybridoma which produces the antibody; a DNA which encodes the antibody; a vector which contains the DNA; a transformant obtainable by introducing the vector; a process for producing an antibody or an antibody fragment thereof using the hybridoma or the transformant; and a therapeutic agent using the antibody or the antibody fragment thereof or a diagnostic agent using the antibody or the antibody fragment thereof.
US08877906B2 Amphiphiles for protein solubilization and stabilization
The invention provides amphiphiles for manipulating membrane proteins. The amphiphiles can feature carbohydrate-derived hydrophilic groups and branchpoints in the hydrophilic moiety and/or in a lipophilic moiety. Such amphiphiles are useful as detergents for solubilization and stabilization of membrane proteins, including photosynthetic protein superassemblies obtained from bacterial membranes.
US08877902B2 Formulations and methods for weight loss and body contouring
Formulations and methods for weight loss and body contouring are disclosed. An illustrative formulation comprises human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) and resveratrol. An illustrative method for weight loss and body contouring comprises administering hCG and resveratrol sublingually.
US08877895B2 Prokaryotic expression construct
A pro-polypeptide which is useful for the expression of a polypeptide of interest in a prokaryotic cell. Therefore the pro-polypeptide is fused to the N-terminus of the polypeptide of interest. The pro-polypeptide as reported herein provides for improved expression yields and improves the handling of the fusion polypeptide (downstream processing, purification). For example, efficient endotoxin removal is effected while the protein of interest comprising the pro-polypeptide is bound e.g. to an affinity chromatography material. Thereafter the pro-polypeptide can efficiently be cleaved from the polypeptide of interest by the incorporated protease cleavage site with the cognate protease.
US08877894B2 Modified beta-lactoglobulins for immunotherapy of milk allergy
The present invention is related to field of allergic (hypersensitivity) diseases and provides a method for producing modified allergenic polypeptides for use in immunotherapies. In the method of the invention, said allergenic polypeptides are modified so that they are not capable to form transient dimers. The invention also provides modified β-lactoglobulins for use in immunotherapy of milk allergy.
US08877889B2 Tumor cell-killing peptides
The present invention provides a tumor cell-killing peptide and a pharmaceutical composition for treating a cancer. The tumor cell-killing peptide of the present invention selectively homes into tumor cells so that it can induce the death of tumor cells effectively while minimizing the harming of normal cell.
US08877883B2 Adhesive composition for polarizing plate and polarizing plate and optical member including adhesive layer formed using the same
A polarizing plate and an optical member, the polarizing plate including an adhesive layer, the adhesive layer being prepared from an adhesive composition including a (meth)acrylic copolymer, a crosslinking agent, and a tackifier, the tackifier including an acrylic modified petroleum resin represented by Formula 1: R′—CO—O—R  [Formula 1] wherein R′ is a petroleum resin and R is a C1-C20 alkyl group or a C6-C50 aryl group.
US08877879B2 Apparatus for producing methacrylic polymer and production method thereof
Disclosed is an apparatus for producing a high-quality methacrylic polymer with good productivity, comprising a complete mixing type reactor 11, tubular reactors 12 and 13 which have been serially connected, and a volatile removing instrument 14, wherein at least two of the tubular reactors 12 and 13 are connected via a cooler 15 for cooling the reaction mixture. It is preferable that the cooler 15 is a multitubular cooler and the tubular reactors 12 and 13 are plug flow reactors.
US08877878B2 Epoxy resin composition with sulfonium borate complex
A sulfonium borate complex that is capable of reducing the amount of fluorine ions generated during thermal cationic polymerization, and is capable of providing a thermal cationic polymerizable adhesive with low-temperature fast curing properties is represented by a structure represented by the formula (1). In the formula (1), R1 is an aralkyl group, R2 is a lower alkyl group, and R3 is a lower alkoxycarbonyl group. X is a halogen atom, and n is an integer of from 1 to 3.
US08877870B2 Fluorinated elastic copolymer and process for its production, and crosslinked rubber article
A fluorinated elastic copolymer which has iodine atoms, bromine atoms, or both iodine and bromine atoms, at its molecular terminals and which includes repeating units (a) based on tetrafluoroethylene, repeating units (b) based on a fluorinated monomer having one polymerizable unsaturated bond (provided that tetrafluoroethylene is excluded), and repeating units (c) based on a fluorinated monomer having at least two polymerizable unsaturated bonds, wherein the ratio (molar ratio) of the repeating units (a) to the repeating units (b) is (a)/(b)=40/60 to 90/10, and the proportion of the repeating units (c) based on the total amount of the repeating units (a) and the repeating units (b) is from 0.01 to 1 mol %.
US08877869B2 Method for selecting organic sulfur compound for golf ball, method for producing golf ball, and golf ball
An object of the present invention is to provide a golf ball having high resilience. The gist of the present invention resides in selecting an organic sulfur compound used for a golf ball rubber composition containing (a) a base rubber, (b) a co-crosslinking agent, (c) a crosslinking initiator, and (d) the organic sulfur compound from organic sulfur compounds having specific structures such that a sum of substituent constants of the substituents X in a structure represented by the following formula (4) is 0.2 or more and SP value of the structure represented by the following formula (4) is in a range from 19.0 (J/cm3)1/2 to 24.0 (J/cm3)1/2 and using the same.
US08877867B2 Process for forming thermoplastic vulcanizates and extruded articles therefrom
A process for preparing modified thermoplastic vulcanizate compositions, the process comprising the steps of introducing molten thermoplastic vulcanizate and a free-radical source, where the thermoplastic vulcanizate includes cured rubber dispersed within a thermoplastic matrix.
US08877865B2 Resin composition and multilayered structure
A resin composition, contains: a thermoplastic polyurethane (A); a thermoplastic polyurethane (B); and an ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (C), wherein an isocyanate group content (mole) in raw materials of the thermoplastic polyurethane (A) is greater than a hydroxyl group content (mole) therein, an isocyanate group content (mole) in raw materials of the thermoplastic polyurethane (B) is nearly equal to a hydroxyl group content (mole) therein, and the thermoplastic polyurethane (B) and the ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (C) have a mass ratio (B/C) of from 70/30 to 99/1 and a content of the thermoplastic polyurethane (A), based on 100 parts by mass of a total of the thermoplastic polyurethane (B) and the ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (C), is from 1 to 30 parts by mass. Thus, a resin composition is provided that contains thermoplastic polyurethanes and an ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer and is good in melt shapability.
US08877860B2 Two-part silicone rubber composition
A two-part curable liquid silicone rubber composition comprises a first liquid composition and a second liquid composition. The first and second liquid compositions are stored separately and yield, upon mixing, a silicone rubber forming composition. The silicone rubber composition comprises: (A) an alkenyl group-containing organopolysiloxane comprising (A-1) an organopolysiloxane having only a silicon-bonded alkenyl group at each molecular terminal and (A-2) an organopolysiloxane having from 1 to 4 silicon-bonded alkenyl groups in side molecular chains and containing not greater than 2.0 wt. % of alkenyl groups; (B) a calcium carbonate powder; (C) a hydrosilylation reaction catalyst; and (D) an organohydrogenpolysiloxane having silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms.
US08877858B2 Technique for stabilizing solutions of titanium dioxide nanoparticles in acrylate polymers by means of short-pulsed UV laser irradiation
A method for preparing a colloid solution of titanium dioxide nanoparticles in a solution of acrylic resin in organic solvent includes mixing titanium dioxide nanoparticles with a solution of acrylic resin in organic solvent, so as to obtain the colloid solution. The colloid solution is subjected to a stabilization treatment suitable for preventing or reducing nanoparticle aggregation, the treatment includes irradiating the colloid solution with pulsed coherent light having a wavelength substantially comprised in the ultraviolet absorption band of the titanium dioxide nanoparticles.
US08877857B2 Polar group-containing copolymer, rubber composition and studless tire
The present invention provides a polar group-containing copolymer which can provide a rubber composition and a winter tire achieving the abrasion resistance, performance on ice, and handling stability on dry roads in a balanced manner. The present invention relates to a polar group-containing copolymer obtainable by copolymerizing a conjugated diene compound and a polar group-containing vinyl compound, wherein the polar group-containing vinyl compound is a compound that has a polymerizable unsaturated bond and a polar group, wherein any one of carbon atoms forming the polymerizable unsaturated bond and a carbon atom linked to the polar group are connected to each other via at least one carbon atom, and wherein a cis content of the double bond portion of the conjugated diene compound in the polar group-containing copolymer is 80 mol % or more.
US08877856B2 Adhesive resin composition and hot melt adhesive obtained therefrom
Provided is an adhesive resin composition having improved heat resistance without deteriorations in adhesive strength and flexibility. The adhesive resin composition comprises 30 to 98 wt % of an ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer (a) and 70 to 2 wt % of a propylene resin composition (P), wherein the total of the component (a) and the component (P) is 100 wt %. The propylene resin composition (P) comprises 60 to 0 wt % of a propylene polymer (b) having a melting point of 120 to 170° C. and a melt flow rate of 0.1 to 500 g/10 min, and 40 to 100 wt % of a propylene polymer (c) having a melting point of less than 120° C. or showing no melting points and having a melt flow rate of 0.1 to 500 g/10 min, wherein the total of the component (b) and the component (c) is 100 wt %.
US08877852B2 Phosphorous-containing organic polymer and compositions and processes including same
An organic polymer including internal pendant phosphorous acid groups at a level of >0.25% phosphorus by weight based on the weight of said organic polymer, the phosphorus acid groups being separated from the backbone of the organic polymer by no more than 2 alkylene glycol units, the organic polymer having an acid number of from 100 to 1,000, and a Mw of from 1,000 to 75,000, wherein the organic polymer has been formed by emulsion polymerization from at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer is provided. Compositions further including an emulsion polymer including from 0.05% to 2% phosphorous, present as pendant phosphorous acid groups, by weight based on the weight of the emulsion polymer, and, optionally, an inorganic particle are also provided as are processes related to the compositions.
US08877840B2 Self priming spackling compound
A self-priming spackling compound includes between about 35% by weight and about 65% by weight acrylic latex resin, between about 20% by weight and about 50% by weight filler material, and between about 1% by weight and about 20% by weight water. In certain aspects, the latex resin may have an average latex particle size of less than about 0.18 microns, a minimum film formation temperature of less than about 15 degrees Celsius, and/or a glass transition temperature (Tg) of less than about 25 degrees Celsius. To further enhance the self-priming performance of the spackling compound, the formulation may further comprise a colorant such as titanium dioxide.
US08877838B2 Melamine phenylphosphinate flame retardant compositions
The present invention relates to flame retardant polymer compositions which comprise melamine phenylphosphinates and mixtures with dihydro-oxa-phosphaphenanthrene derivatives. The compositions are especially useful for the manufacture of flame retardant compounds based on polyfunctional epoxides or polycondensates like polyesters, polyamides and polycarbonates.
US08877831B2 Weighted elastomers, cement compositions comprising weighted elastomers, and methods of use
Methods and compositions are provided that relate to weighted elastomers. The weighted elastomers may comprise an elastomer and a weighting agent attached to an outer surface of the elastomer. An embodiment includes a method of cementing that comprises providing a cement composition containing cement, water, and a weighted elastomer. In addition, the cement composition may be introduced into a subterranean formation and allowed to set therein.
US08877829B2 Process for making cationic hydrophilic siloxanyl monomers
The present invention relates to polymeric compositions useful in the manufacture of biocompatible medical devices. More particularly, the present invention relates to certain cationic monomers capable of polymerization to form polymeric compositions having desirable physical characteristics useful in the manufacture of ophthalmic devices. Such properties include the ability to extract the polymerized medical devices with water. This avoids the use of organic solvents as is typical in the art. The polymeric compositions comprise polymerized cationic hydrophilic siloxanyl monomers prepared by the process disclosed herein.
US08877828B2 Method for producing curable composition for imprints
Provided is a method of producing a curable composition for imprints including (A) a polymerizable monomer, (B) a polymerization initiator, and (C) a solvent which is capable of effectively suppressing lifting or separation of patterns, excellent in coatability, and excellent in time-dependent stability. The method of producing a curable composition for imprints comprises preparing one species of liquid (D) which contains at least either one of the polymerizable monomer (A) and the polymerization initiator (B), passing the liquid (D) through a filter, and then adding the solvent (C).
US08877820B2 Compositions comprising a retinoid and an NFkB-inhibitor and their methods of use
A composition including a retinoid, an NFκB-inhibitor, and a cosmetically-acceptable topical carrier is provided. Methods of treating the skin are also provided.
US08877818B2 Antimicrobially active compositions
Compositions (3) and methods of using such compositions (3) to condition, clean, or disinfect the flow path of a conduit (8) of a microfluidic devices (16), such as flow cytometers or liquid chromatographs.
US08877812B2 Methods for decreasing the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis, colic, and short bowel syndrome in an infant, toddler, or child
Disclosed are nutritional formulations including predigested fats that can be administered to preterm infants, infants, toddlers, and children for improving tolerance, digestion, and absorption of nutrients and for reducing the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis, colic, and short bowel syndrome. The predigested fats include fatty acid-containing monoglycerides and/or a fatty acid component.
US08877807B2 Compositions and methods for reducing body fat
The present invention relates to compositions, such as bimatoprost, latanoprost and travoprost, and methods to reduce fat in the body of an individual, for example, by topical administration, injection, and/or implantation of such compositions.
US08877806B2 Treatment of sleep-wake disorders
This invention is directed to a method of treating Excessive daytime Sleepiness (EDS) in a subject, comprising the step of administering a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of Formula (I): Formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or ester thereof wherein Rx is a member selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, lower alkyl of 1 to 8 carbon atoms, halogen selected from F, Cl, Br and I, alkoxy containing 1 to 3 carbon atoms, nitro, hydroxy, trifluoromethyl, and thioalkoxy containing 1 to 3 carbon atoms; x is an integer of 1 to 3, with the proviso that R may be the same or different when x is 2 or 3; R1 and R2 can be the same or different from each other and are independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, lower alkyl of 1 to 8 carbon atoms, aryl, arylalkyl, cycloalkyl of 3 to 7 carbon atoms; R1 and R2 can be joined to form a 5 to 7-membered heterocycle substituted with a member selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, alkyl, and aryl groups, wherein the cyclic compound can comprise 1 to 2 nitrogen atoms and 0 to 1 oxygen atom, wherein the nitrogen atoms are not directly connected with each other or with the oxygen atom.
US08877805B2 Heteroarylcarboxylic acid ester derivative
Compounds represented by formula (I):wherein each symbol is as defined in the description, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof are useful as hyperglycemic inhibitors having a serine protease inhibitory action and as prophylactic or therapeutic drugs for diabetes.
US08877802B2 Antiparkinsonian action of phenylisopropylamines
A method of treating a subject for Parkinson's disease comprises administering said subject a phenylisopropylamine in an amount effective to treat said Parkinson's disease. In some embodiments the method is used to treat at least a motor symptom of Parkinson's disease; in some embodiments the method is used to treat at least a non-motor symptom of Parkinson's disease.
US08877800B2 Kappa-opiate agonists for the treatment of diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome
The present invention concerns methods useful in treating a subject having diarrhea-predominant IBS (IBS-D) by administering N-methyl-N-[(1S)-1-phenyl-2-((3S)-3-hydroxypyrrolidin-1-yl)ethyl]-2,2-diphenylacetamide and/or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof to the subject.
US08877796B2 Spiro-oxindole MDM2 antagonists
Provided herein are compounds, compositions, and methods in the field of medicinal chemistry. The compounds and compositions provided herein relate to spiro-oxindoles which function as antagonists of the interaction between p53 and MDM2, and their use as therapeutics for the treatment of cancer and other diseases.
US08877795B2 Identification of stabilizers of multimeric proteins
Disclosed herein are compounds and compositions thereof which find use in increasing stability of TTR tetramers reducing its tendency to misfold and form aggregates. Also provided herein are methods for using these compounds and compositions for increasing stability of TTR and thereby decreasing aggregate formation by TTR. Also disclosed herein are methods to screen for candidate compounds that increase stability of TTR. Also disclosed herein are heterobifunctional compounds that include a TTR binding compound connected to a targeting moiety via a linker, for use in disrupting PPIs of a target protein.
US08877794B2 Phenalkylamine derivatives, pharmaceutical compositions containing them, and their use in therapy
The present invention relates to phenalkylamine derivatives of the formula (I) or a physiologically tolerated salt thereof. The invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such phenalkylamine derivatives, and the use of such phenalkylamine derivatives for therapeutic purposes. The phenalkylamine derivatives are GlyT1 inhibitors.
US08877792B2 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.
US08877791B2 Inhibitors of pyruvate kinase and methods of treating disease
The invention provides pharmaceutical compositions, kits, and methods of treating cancer, diabetes, obesity, autoimmune disease, and benign prostatic hyperplasia using compounds that selectively inhibit pyruvate kinase M2 and an assay measuring chemical modulation of pyruvate kinase activity.
US08877790B2 Allantoin-containing skin cream
An allantoin-containing skin cream composition can comprise allantoin and at least one anionic or nonionic emulsifier that is substantially hydrophilic and is soluble in water. The composition is in the form of an oil-in-water emulsion. The pH of the composition is in a range of from about 3.0 to about 6.0; preferably, the pH of the composition is from about 5.0 to about 6.0. The composition can further comprise an acidic anionic polymer. A preferred acidic anionic polymer is a carboxypolymethylene polymer. The composition can further comprise a carbohydrate polymer such as galactoarabinan, polygalactose or polyarabinose. The composition can additionally comprise other ingredients such as herbal extracts, an antioxidant component, an emollient component, a chelator, a solvent component, or a preservative component. The composition is useful as a skin protectant.
US08877789B2 Allantoin-containing skin cream
An allantoin-containing skin cream composition can comprise allantoin and at least one anionic or nonionic emulsifier that is substantially hydrophilic and is soluble in water. The composition is in the form of an oil-in-water emulsion. The pH of the composition is in a range of from about 3.0 to about 6.0; preferably, the pH of the composition is from about 5.0 to about 6.0. The composition can further comprise an acidic anionic polymer. A preferred acidic anionic polymer is a carboxypolymethylene polymer. The composition can further comprise a carbohydrate polymer such as galactoarabinan, polygalactose or polyarabinose. The composition can additionally comprise other ingredients such as herbal extracts, an antioxidant component, an emollient component, a chelator, a solvent component, or a preservative component. The composition is useful as a skin protectant.
US08877788B2 Allantoin-containing skin cream
An allantoin-containing skin cream composition can comprise allantoin and at least one anionic or nonionic emulsifier that is substantially hydrophilic and is soluble in water. The composition is in the form of an oil-in-water emulsion. The pH of the composition is in a range of from about 3.0 to about 6.0; preferably, the pH of the composition is from about 5.0 to about 6.0. The composition can further comprise an acidic anionic polymer. A preferred acidic anionic polymer is a carboxypolymethylene polymer. The composition can further comprise a carbohydrate polymer such as galactoarabinan, polygalactose or polyarabinose. The composition can additionally comprise other ingredients such as herbal extracts, an antioxidant component, an emollient component, a chelator, a solvent component, or a preservative component. The composition is useful as a skin protectant.
US08877785B2 Methods and compositions for enhancing sensitivity of cytotoxic drugs with timely combinatorial therapy with carboxyamidotriazole orotate
This invention relates to enhancing sensitivity of cytotoxic drugs by targeting their interfering mechanisms induced in the tumor microenvironment which lead to drug resistance, using combinatorial therapy with carboxyamidotriazole orotate. Specific doses of cytotoxic drugs are titrated with carboxyamidotriazole orotate to improve the sensitivity and anticancer activity of cytotoxic drugs.
US08877783B2 Isoxazolo-pyridine derivatives
The present invention is concerned with isoxazole-pyridine derivatives of formula I wherein X, R1 to R6 are as described herein. The compounds are active on the GABA A α5 receptor binding site and useful for the treatment of cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease.
US08877782B2 Isoxazolo-pyridine derivatives
The present invention is concerned with isoxazole-pyridine derivatives of formula I wherein X, R1 to R6 are as described herein. The compounds are active on the GABA A α5 receptor binding site and useful for the treatment of cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease.
US08877778B2 Benzofurane compounds
The present invention is concerned with novel dual modulators of the 5-HT2A and D3 receptors of formula (I) wherein n, x, Y, R1, R2, R3, and R4 are as described herein, as well as pharmaceutically acceptable salts and esters thereof. Further the present invention is concerned with the manufacture of the compounds of formula (I), pharmaceutical compositions comprising them and their use as pharmaceuticals.
US08877774B2 Compounds having muscarinic receptor antagonist and beta2 Adrenergic receptor agonist activity
Compounds of formula(I) act both as muscarinic receptor antagonists and beta2 adrenergic receptor agonists and are useful for the prevention and/or treatment of broncho-obstructive and inflammatory diseases.
US08877773B2 Methods for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Methods and compositions that down regulate the activity of orexins to treat panic disorder and panic-like responses associated with hypercapnic conditions are disclosed.
US08877772B2 Substituted pyrrolo[2,3-B]pyridines as MLK inhibitors
Provided are compounds having an inhibitory effect on Mixed Lineage Kinases, having a structural Formula, Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions, methods of preparing the compounds, synthetic intermediates, and methods of using the compounds, independently or in combination with other therapeutic agents, for treating diseases and conditions which are affected by Mixed Lineage Kinase inhibition. Also provided are methods of treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders which comprise the inhibition of Mixed Lineage Kinases.
US08877770B2 Polymorph of rifaximin and process for the preparation thereof
The present invention relates to a new polymorph of Rifaximin, designated κ, and to a process for the preparation thereof. Under certain aspects, the invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising an effective amount of the polymorphic form κ of Rifaximin and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and its uses in the treatment of gastrointestinal conditions.
US08877766B2 Neuroprotective multifunctional antioxidants and their monofunctional analogs
The neuroprotective multifunctional antioxidants are compounds that contain a 2-diacetylamino-5-hydroxypyrimidine moiety, having the structural formula: wherein R1 is CH2 or C2H4; R2 is H or —OR4 where R4 is H or aryl; and R3a and R3b are independently selected from the group consisting of H and —O-alkyl. The antioxidants are orally bioavailable metal-attenuating multifunctional antioxidants that can independently attenuate transition metals, as well as scavenger free radicals. The multifunctional antioxidant compounds, by their ability to independently chelate metals, such as Fe, Cu or Zn, and scavenge free radicals generated from different sources, are neuroprotective and are beneficial for the treatment of various neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, ALS, traumatic brain injury, ocular disorders, such as cataract, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration and other retinal degeneration, as well as for reducing the progression of diabetic complications.
US08877765B2 Highly soluble pyrimido-dione-quinoline compounds and their use in the treatment of cancer
The present invention features pyrimido-dione-quinoline compounds having improved solubility, pharmaceutical compositions of substituted pyrimido-dione-quinoline compounds and methods of treating a patient suffering from cancer, the method comprising administering to a patient one or more pyrimido-dione-quinoline compounds of the invention.
US08877764B2 Method for treating cancer harboring EGFR mutations
The present invention relates to a method of treatment of patients suffering from cancer and harboring mutations of EGFR in the tumor, for instance an activating mutation of the EGFR or a mutation responsible for resistance or the emergence of acquired resistance to treatment with reversible EGFR and/or HER2 inhibitors or irreversible inhibitors such as CI-1033, EKB-569, HKI-272 or HKI-357, comprising administering an effective amount of the irreversible EGFR inhibitor BIBW2992 (1) 4-[(3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl)amino]-6-{[4-(N,N-dimethylamino)-1-oxo-2-buten-1-yl]amino}-7-((S)-tetrahydrofuran-3-yloxy)-quinazoline, to a person in need of such treatment, optionally in combination with the administration of a further chemotherapeutic agent, in combination with radiotherapy, radio-immunotherapy and/or tumor resection by surgery, and to the use of a BIBW 2992 (1) for preparing a pharmaceutical composition for the treatment of patients suffering from cancer and harboring mutations of EGFR in the tumor.
US08877762B2 Hair growth and/or regrowth compositions
The present disclosure relates to compositions containing certain pyrimidine compounds such as minoxidil and/or certain pyrimidine sulfate (inner salt) compounds such as minoxidil sulfate and especially compositions containing pyrimidine compounds in combination with an admixtures comprising at least one antioxidant, at least one organic acid and a select fatty acid mixture. The present disclosure also relates to use of the compositions to grow and/or regrow hair and/or prevent hair loss in mammals and particularly in humans.
US08877760B2 Substituted pyrazine-2-carboxamide kinase inhibitors
Provided are substituted pyrazine-2-carboxamide compounds of Formula I: useful for inhibiting of Syk kinase, intermediates used in making such compounds, methods for their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions thereof, methods for inhibition Syk kinase activity, and methods for treating conditions mediated at least in part by Syk kinase activity.
US08877756B2 Substituted pteridines
The invention relates to new pteridines which are suitable for treating respiratory or gastrointestinal complaints or diseases, inflammatory diseases of the joints, skin or eyes, diseases of the peripheral or central nervous system and cancers. This invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds.
US08877753B2 1-aryl-3-aminoalkoxy pyrazoles as sigma ligands enhancing analgesic effect of opioids and attenuating the dependency thereof
The invention relates to the use of a group of sigma receptor ligands of formula (I) for the potentiation of the analgesic effect of opioids and opiates and at the same time for decreasing the dependency induced by them.
US08877750B2 2-oxy-benzoxazinone derivatives for the treatment of obesity
The use of a compound comprising formula (I): or a salt, ester, amide or prodrug thereof in the inhibition of an enzyme whose preferred mode of action is to catalyse the hydrolysis of an ester functionality, e.g. in the control and inhibition of unwanted enzymes in products and processes. The compounds are also useful in medicine e.g. in the treatment of obesity and related conditions. The invention also relates to novel compounds within formula (I), to processes for preparing them and pharmaceutical compositions containing them. In formula (I) A is a 6-membered aromatic or heteroaromatic ring; and R1 is a branched or unbranched alkyl (optionally interrupted by one or more oxygen atoms), alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, aryl, arylalkyl, reduced arylalkyl, arylalkenyl, heteroaryl, heteroarylalkyl, heteroarylalkenyl, reduced aryl, reduced heteroaryl, reduced heteroarylalkyl or a substituted derivative of any of the foregoing groups.
US08877749B2 Spirocyclic compounds as modulators of chemokine receptor activity
The present application describes modulators of chemokine receptor activity of formula (I) or stereoisomers or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. In addition, methods of treating and preventing inflammatory diseases such as asthma and allergic diseases, as well as autoimmune pathologies such as rheumatoid arthritis and transplant rejection using modulators of formula (I) are disclosed.
US08877747B2 Indenone derivative and pharmaceutical composition comprising same
An indenone derivative of formula (1) is effective in enhancing the activity of osteoblastic cells and inhibiting bone resorption by osteoclastic cells, and a pharmaceutical composition comprising the indenone derivative or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof is useful for preventing or treating bone diseases such as osteoporosis.
US08877743B2 Bicyclic compounds and their use as antibacterial agents and β-lactamase inhibitors
A compound of formula (I): wherein: M is hydrogen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt-forming cation; and R1 and M are as defined herein. Also, methods of treating bacterial infection, pharmaceutical compositions, molecular complexes and processes for preparing compounds.
US08877741B2 Pyrrolidine derivatives, pharmaceutical compositions and uses thereof
The invention relates to new pyrrolidine derivatives of the formula to their use as medicaments, to methods for their therapeutic use and to pharmaceutical compositions containing them.
US08877736B2 Method for treating keloid by administering 3′sialyllactose or 6′sialyllactose as a pharmaceutical or cosmetic
The present invention relates to a composition for preventing or treating hypertrophic scar or keloid, comprising as an active ingredient a compound represented by the following general formula I: S-(MS)p-(MS)q  (I) wherein S represents sialic acid, and (MS)p and (MS)q independently represent a monosaccharide residue. The composition of the present invention inhibits proliferation of keloid fibroblasts and induces apoptosis of keloid fibroblasts, thereby effectively preventing or treating keloid. The active ingredient used in this invention is a natural compound or its derivative or isomer and therefore very safe to human.
US08877734B2 Seleny-methyluracil compounds, radiosensitizer and pharmaceutical composition using them
Provided are novel selenyl-methyluracil compounds and a pharmaceutical composition for enhancing the effect of radiation treatment. The composition contains at least one compound selected from the group consisting of the selenyl-methyluracil compounds or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, as an active ingredient.
US08877733B2 1′-substituted pyrimidine N-nucleoside analogs for antiviral treatment
Provided are compounds of Formula I: nucleosides, nucleoside phosphates and prodrugs thereof, wherein R6 is CN, ethenyl, 2-haloethen-1-yl, or (C2-C8)-alkyn-1-yl. The compounds, compositions, and methods provided are useful for the treatment of Flaviviridae virus infections.
US08877730B2 Targeting microRNAs for metabolic disorders
Provided herein are methods and compositions for the treatment of metabolic disorders. Also provided herein are methods and compositions for the reduction of blood glucose level, the reduction of gluceoneogenesis, the improvement of insulin resistance and the reduction of plasma cholesterol level. In certain embodiments, the methods comprise inhibiting the activity of miR-103. In certain embodiments, the methods comprise inhibiting the activity of miR-107. In certain embodiments, the activity of both miR-103 and miR-107 is inhibited. In certain embodiments, such methods comprise administering a compound comprising an oligonucleotide targeted to a microRNA.
US08877727B2 Delivery of dsRNA to arthropods
The invention is to methods of gene silencing in arthropods using dsRNA. The method is include contacting the arthropod with, and/or directly feeding the arthropod, the dsRNA to the arthropods to deliver the dsRNA to arthropod tissues. It is envisaged that the methods of the invention will have use in determining the biological function of genes in arthropods. Methods of pest control of arthropods, and of protecting arthropods against parasites and predators are provided. Transgenic arthropods expressing dsRNA molecules are also provided by the present invention.
US08877725B2 Peptide conjugated, inosine-substituted antisense oligomer compound and method
A therapeutic oligomer-peptide conjugate, and methods of using the conjugate are disclosed. The conjugate includes (a) a substantially uncharged oligonucleotide analog compound having a base sequence that includes a string of bases that are complementary to four or more contiguous cytosine bases in a target nucleic acid region to which the compound is intended to bind, and (b) conjugated to the compound, an arginine-rich peptide effective to enhance the uptake of the compound into target cells. The string of bases in the compound includes at least one inosine base positioned in the string so as to limit the number of contiguous guanine bases in said string to three or fewer. The conjugate has greater cellular uptake than the compound alone, by virtue of the arginine-rich peptide, and substantially greater antisense activity greater activity than the conjugate in the absence of inosine-for guanine substitutions.
US08877721B2 Small activating RNA molecules and methods of use
The present invention provides compositions, pharmaceutical preparations, kits and methods for increasing expression of a gene product in a cell by contacting the cell with a small activating RNA (saRNA) molecule comprising a ribonucleic strand that is complementary to a non-coding nucleic acid sequence of the gene.
US08877719B2 Pest controlling composition
A pest controlling composition comprising spinetoram and a cyclic keto-enol compound having an acetyl CoA carboxylase-inhibiting activity as active ingredients.
US08877709B2 Reversible pegylated drugs
Reversible pegylated drugs are provided by derivatization of free functional groups of the drug selected from amino, hydroxyl, mercapto, phosphate and/or carboxyl with groups sensitive to mild basic conditions such as 9-fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl (Fmoc) or 2-sulfo-9-fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl (FMS), to which group a PEG moiety is attached. In these pegylated drugs, the PEG moiety and the drug residue are not linked directly to each other, but rather both residues are linked to different positions of the scaffold Fmoc or FMS structure that is highly sensitive to bases and is removable under physiological conditions. The drugs are preferably drugs containing an amino group, most preferably peptides and proteins of low or medium molecular weight. Similar molecules are provided wherein a protein carrier or another polymer carrier replaces the PEG moiety.
US08877708B2 Combination of dopamine agonists plus first phase secretagogues for the treatment of metabolic disorders
The present invention is directed to a method of treating a metabolic disorder or key elements of a metabolic disorder such method comprising the use of an agent(s) that increases central dopaminergic activity plus a first-phase insulin secretagouge.
US08877706B2 Maytansinoid derivatives
Disclosed herein are maytansinoid drug linker derivatives which can be linked to a antigen binding unit (Abu), and maytansinoid drugs linked with an antigen binding unit (Drug-Linker-Antigen binding Unit: D-L-Abu), for targeted delivery to disease tissues. D-L-Abu, D-L-Abu derivatives, and methods relating to the use of such drug conjugates to treat antigen positive cells in cancers and immunological disorders are provided.
US08877705B2 Biomaterial for the controlled delivery of ingredients
The disclosure relates to a biomaterial that comprises an aqueous phase, polymer network, a second polymer included in said disclosure invention more particularly relates to a biomaterial including an aqueous phase and a first polymer network made of a first proteic or saccharidic polymer or a mixture of first proteic and saccharidic polymers, wherein the first polymer network and the aqueous phase define a first gel (A), the biomaterial including: a second proteic or saccharidic polymer or a mixture of the second proteic and saccharidic polymers, either in solution in the aqueous phase of the gel (A) or in the form of a gel (B), and a first enzyme for degrading said second polymer or second polymer network. The disclosure also relates to a method for making biomaterials, and to the uses of the biomaterial particularly for releasing active substances, and to a device for the controlled release of active substances that include the biomaterial. The disclosure can particularly be used in the field of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
US08877704B2 Organic compounds
Disclosed are certain compounds according to the general formula (I) and their use as flavoring and fragrancing compounds, as well as fragranced and flavored compositions comprising the compounds of formula (I), and methods for providing a flavor or fragrance to compositions and articles utilizing the compounds of formula (I).
US08877703B2 Stearyl and lauryl dimoniumhydroxy alkyl polyglucosides for enhanced food soil removal
A cleaning composition including a primarily C12 quaternary functionalized alkyl polyglucoside selected from the group consisting of stearyldimoniumhydroxypropyl laurylglucosides chloride and lauryldimoniumhydroxypropyl cocoglucosides chloride, a water conditioning agent, an acid source, a solvent, and water. In one embodiment, the cleaning composition is substantially free of alkyl phenol ethoxylates. The cleaning composition is capable of removing soils including up to 20% proteins. The cleaning compositions include a biorenewable, environmentally friendly alternative to nonyl phenol ethoxylates and exhibit superior cleaning of food soils.
US08877699B2 Dishwasher detergent comprising a liquid non-ionic surfactant and at least two solid non-ionic surfactants
A dishwasher detergent composition comprising: a compound of formula 1; a liquid non-ionic surfactant; and at least one solid non-ionic surfactant.
US08877696B2 Cleaning compositions comprising pH-switchable amine surfactants
A cleaning composition may comprise a pH-switchable sudsing system and a cleansing system. The pH-switchable sudsing system may comprise a primary sudsing agent in combination with a pH-switchable co-surfactant. The pH-switchable co-surfactant is selected from diamine molecules having a general formula R1R2—N—R3—N+(CH3)3X−, where R1 is a linear or branched C8 to C16 hydrocarbyl, R2 is a linear or branched C1 to C3 hydrocarbyl, R3 is a linear or branched C3 to C6 hydrocarbylene, and X is a counteranion. The tertiary amine nitrogen of the pH-switchable co-surfactant has a pKa value. When the tertiary amine nitrogen is unprotonated, the pH-switchable co-surfactant may provide a suds-boosting effect in washing solutions at a washing pH above the pKa. When the tertiary amine nitrogen is protonated, the pH-switchable co-surfactant may provide a suds-reducing benefit in rinse waters at a rinse pH below the pKa.
US08877691B2 Methods and compositions for altering the viscosity of treatment fluids used in subterranean operations
Methods of decreasing the viscosity of a treatment fluid through contact with a cyclodextrin modifier. Such methods include providing a cyclodextrin modifier; providing a treatment fluid that comprises a base fluid and a viscosifying agent wherein the viscosifying agent is selected from the group consisting of a hydrophobically modified polymer, a viscoelastic surfactant, a phosphonate surfactant, or a combination thereof; and, introducing the cyclodextrin modifier and the treatment fluid into a well bore penetrating a subterranean formation wherein the viscosity of the treatment fluid is decreased due to the combination of the hydrophobically modified polymer and the cyclodextrin modifier.
US08877689B2 Compositions and methods for treatment of well bore tar
Of the many compositions and methods provided herein, one example composition includes a treatment fluid comprising: an aqueous fluid; and a tar stabilizing polymer comprising at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of a styrene polymer, an acrylate polymer, a styrene-acrylate polymer, and any combination thereof.
US08877688B2 Rationally designed, synthetic antibody libraries and uses therefor
The present invention overcomes the inadequacies inherent in the known methods for generating libraries of antibody-encoding polynucleotides by specifically designing the libraries with directed sequence and length diversity. The libraries are designed to reflect the preimmune repertoire naturally created by the human immune system, with or without DH segments derived from other species, and are based on rational design informed by examination of publicly available databases of antibody sequences.
US08877679B2 Direct thermal media and registration sensor system and method for use in a color thermal printer
Provided is a direct thermal media containing a regular repeating pattern of color-forming thermally-imageable stripes printed parallel to the print head element line and a system for using such direct thermal media in color direct thermal printers including an optical registration system optimized for use with this media and an image processing unit that monitors the position of the stripe pattern relative to the print head and synchronizes the start of the printing process. This direct thermal media together with the optical registration system and image processing unit comprise an operative system in that the design of the thermal media, the optical registration system and image processing unit used to control printing are optimized for use with each other. This system may be utilized, for example, in color thermal printers for documents, receipts, tags, tickets or labels.
US08877677B1 Filtration media and process for the removal of hazardous materials from air streams
The present invention relates to a novel filtration media and process for removing toxic materials from streams of air at ambient conditions using the novel filtration media. The filtration media is comprised of porous zirconium hydroxide onto which at least one reactive moiety is impregnated.
US08877676B2 Heterogeneous copper nanocatalyst and manufacturing methods thereof
This invention relates to a heterogeneous copper nanocatalyst composed of copper nanoparticles immobilized on a boehmite support, a method of preparing the same, and the use thereof. The copper nanocatalyst composed of the copper nanoparticles supported on boehmite exhibits excellent performance in a Huisgen cycloaddition reaction and an A3 coupling reaction of aldehyde, amine and alkyne. The copper nanocatalyst is able to be prepared in a large scale and shows superior reactivity even when used in a small amount under mild conditions without an additive in an organic reaction. This heterogeneous catalyst is easy to separate and reuse after the reaction.
US08877669B2 Hydroisomerization catalysts for biological feedstocks
Provided are hydroisomerization catalysts for processing a bio-based feedstock into biodiesel fuels. These catalysts comprise a catalytic material and a matrix component. The catalytic material is made up of a molecular sieve that has a pre-loaded platinum group metal. The catalytic material and the matrix component are processed together to form the hydroisomerization catalyst. Methods of making these hydroisomerization catalysts include synthesizing a molecular sieve; purifying the molecular sieve; associating the molecular sieve with a platinum group metal in the absence of the matrix component to form the pre-loaded molecular sieve before formation of a catalyst body; mixing the pre-loaded molecular sieve with the matrix component to form a mixture; processing the mixture to form a catalyst body; and drying and calcining the catalyst body to form the hydroisomerization catalyst. These hydroisomerization catalysts can be used to process hydrodeoxygenated plant- or animal-derived feeds to yield a biofuel.
US08877663B2 Crystal glass having refractive index higher than 1.53 without a content of compounds of lead, barium and arsenic
This invention relates to a crystal glass having a refractive index higher than 1.53 and a high mechanical strength, free of any content of compounds of lead, barium and arsenic and guaranteeing maximum safety for health, which consists in that it comprises by weight: 55-70% SiO2, 0.05-3.5% Li2O, 2-15% Na2O, more than 3% and less than 5% or more than 15% and less than 19% K2O, 5 to 10% CaO, more than 1% and less than 4% or more than 7% and less than 8% ZnO, 0.1-3.5% B2O3, 0.1-3.5% Al2O3, 0.1-3.5% TiO2, less than 3.5% ZrO2, 0.05-1.5% Gd2O,3 0.05-1% P2O5, 0.1-1% Sb2O3.
US08877659B2 Low-k dielectric damage repair by vapor-phase chemical exposure
A method for repairing and lowering the dielectric constant of low-k dielectric layers used in semiconductor fabrication is provided. In one implementation, a method of repairing a damaged low-k dielectric layer comprising exposing the porous low-k dielectric layer to a vinyl silane containing compound and optionally exposing the porous low-k dielectric layer to an ultraviolet (UV) cure process.
US08877658B2 Directed self-assembly of block copolymers using laser annealing
Methods for performing directed self-assembly (DSA) of block copolymer (BCP) material on a substrate are disclosed. The BCP is disposed over a patterned neutral layer made from a random copolymer. The BCP is annealed with a laser to induce the directed self-assembly. The scan type may include single scan, multiple scan, or multiple scan with overlap. A variety of power settings and dwell times may be used within a single wafer to achieve multiple heating conditions within a single wafer.
US08877657B2 Process for producing semiconductive layers
The present invention relates to a process for producing a layer comprising at least one semiconductive metal oxide on a substrate, comprising at least the steps of: (A) preparing a solution comprising at least one precursor compound of the at least one metal oxide selected from the group consisting of carboxylates of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids having at least three carbon atoms, or derivatives of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids, alkoxides, hydroxides, semicarbazides, carbamates, hydroxamates, isocyanates, amidines, amidrazones, urea derivatives, hydroxylamines, oximes, urethanes, ammonia, amines, phosphines, ammonium compounds, azides of the corresponding metal and mixtures thereof, in at least one solvent, (B) applying the solution from step (A) to the substrate and (C) thermally treating the substrate from step (B) at a temperature of 20 to 200° C., in order to convert the at least one precursor compound to at least one semiconductive metal oxide, where, if electrically neutral [(OH)x(NH3)yZn]z where x, y and z are each independently 0.01 to 10 is used as the precursor compound in step (A), it is obtained by reacting zinc oxide or zinc hydroxide with ammonia, to a substrate which has been coated with at least one semiconductive metal oxide and is obtainable by this process, to the use of this substrate in electronic components, and to a process for preparing electrically neutral [(OH)x(NH3)yZn]z where x, y and z are each independently 0.01 to 10, by reacting zinc oxide and/or zinc hydroxide with ammonia.
US08877656B2 Method for manufacturing silicon carbide semiconductor device
A method for manufacturing a silicon carbide semiconductor device includes the following steps. A silicon carbide substrate is heated in an atmosphere containing oxygen, so as to form a gate insulating film on and in contact with the silicon carbide substrate. The silicon carbide substrate having the gate insulating film is heated at 1250° C. or more in an atmosphere containing nitrogen and nitrogen monoxide. A value obtained by dividing partial pressure of the nitrogen monoxide by a total of partial pressure of the nitrogen and the partial pressure of the nitrogen monoxide in the second heating step is more than 3% and less than 10%. Accordingly, there can be provided a method for manufacturing a silicon carbide semiconductor device having high mobility.
US08877654B2 Pulsed plasma to affect conformal processing
A plasma processing method is provided. The plasma processing method includes using the after-glow of a pulsed power plasma to perform conformal processing. During the afterglow, the equipotential field lines follow the contour of the workpiece surface, allowing ions to be introduced in a variety of incident angles, especially to non-planar surfaces. In another aspect of the disclosure, the platen may be biased positively during the plasma afterglow to attract negative ions toward the workpiece. Various conformal processing steps, such as implantation, etching and deposition may be performed.
US08877653B2 Substrate processing method and substrate processing apparatus
A solvent vapor containing a solvent material capable of dissolving hydrogen fluoride is supplied to a surface of a substrate, thereby covering the surface of the substrate with a liquid film containing solvent material. Thereafter an etching vapor containing a hydrogen fluoride is supplied to the surface of the substrate covered by the liquid film containing the solvent material, thereby etching the surface of the substrate.
US08877649B2 Thin film transistor array substrate, method of manufacturing the same, and display device
Embodiments of the present invention disclose a thin film transistor array substrate, a method of manufacturing the same, and display device. A method of manufacturing a thin film transistor array substrate, comprises: forming a resin layer on a substrate formed with a thin film transistor array, patterning the resin layer by using a mask process to form a spacer and a contact hole filling layer, the contact hole filing layer is used for filling contact holes on the thin film transistor array substrate; forming an alignment film on the substrate patterning with the spacer and the contact hole filing layer.
US08877645B2 Integrated circuit structure having selectively formed metal cap
Methods of forming an integrated circuit structure utilizing a selectively formed and at least partially oxidized metal cap over a gate, and associated structures. In one embodiment, a method includes providing a precursor structure including a transistor having a metal gate; forming an etch stop layer over an exposed portion of the metal gate; at least partially oxidizing the etch stop layer; and forming a dielectric layer over the at least partially oxidized etch stop layer.
US08877641B2 Line-edge roughness improvement for small pitches
A method for mitigating line-edge roughness on a semiconductor device. The method includes line-edge roughness mitigation techniques in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. The techniques include: reducing the SiON film thickness below a conventional thickness; increasing the photoresist thickness above a conventional thickness; etching the SiON film with an etch bias power less than a conventional wattage amount with an overetch percentage less than a conventional overetch percentage; removing the SiON film layer immediately after completion of the amorphous carbon film layer etching; and lowering the lower electrode temperature below a conventional temperature.
US08877640B2 Cleaning solution and damascene process using the same
A cleaning solution is provided. The cleaning solution includes an aliphatic polycarboxylic acid, a chain sulfonic acid substantially less than 4 wt % and an amine containing buffer agent.
US08877631B2 Interconnect arrangement and associated production methods
An interconnect arrangement and fabrication method are described. The interconnect arrangement includes an electrically conductive mount substrate, a dielectric layer formed on the mount substrate, and an electrically conductive interconnect formed on the dielectric layer. At least a portion of the dielectric layer under the interconnect contains a cavity. To fabricate the interconnect arrangement, a sacrificial layer is formed on the mount substrate and the interconnect layer is formed on the sacrificial layer. The interconnect layer and the sacrificial layer are structured to produce a structured interconnect on the structured sacrificial layer. A porous dielectric layer is formed on a surface of the mount substrate and of the structured interconnect as well as the sacrificial layer. The sacrificial layer is then removed to form the cavity under the interconnect.
US08877628B2 Methods of forming nano-scale pores, nano-scale electrical contacts, and memory devices including nano-scale electrical contacts, and related structures and devices
Electrical contacts may be formed by forming dielectric liners along sidewalls of a dielectric structure, forming sacrificial liners over and transverse to the dielectric liners along sidewalls of a sacrificial structure, selectively removing portions of the dielectric liners at intersections of the dielectric liners and sacrificial liners to form pores, and at least partially filling the pores with a conductive material. Nano-scale pores may be formed by similar methods. Bottom electrodes may be formed and electrical contacts may be structurally and electrically coupled to the bottom electrodes to form memory devices. Nano-scale electrical contacts may have a rectangular cross-section of a first width and a second width, each width less than about 20 nm. Memory devices may include bottom electrodes, electrical contacts having a cross-sectional area less than about 150 nm2 over and electrically coupled to the bottom electrodes, and a cell material over the electrical contacts.
US08877623B2 Method of forming semiconductor device
A method of forming a semiconductor device is provided. A first interfacial material layer is formed by a deposition process on a substrate. A dummy gate material layer is formed on the first interfacial material layer. The dummy gate material layer and the first interfacial material layer are patterned to form a stacked structure. An interlayer dielectric (ILD) layer is formed to cover the stacked structure. A portion of the ILD layer is removed to expose a top of the stacked structure. The stacked structure is removed to form a trench in the ILD layer. A second interfacial layer and a first high-k layer are conformally formed at least on a surface of the trench. A composite metal layer is formed to at least fill up the trench.
US08877619B1 Process for manufacture of integrated circuits with different channel doping transistor architectures and devices therefrom
Structures and processes are provided that can be used for effectively integrating different transistor designs across a process platform. In particular, a bifurcated process is provided in which dopants and other processes for forming some transistor types may be performed prior to STI or other device isolation processes, and other devices may be formed thereafter. Thus, doping and other steps and their sequence with respect to the STI process can be selected to be STI-first or STI-last, depending on the device type to be manufactured, the range of device types that are manufactured on the same wafer or die, or the range of device types that are planned to be manufactured using the same or similar mask sets.
US08877615B2 Methods of manufacturing finFET devices
A finFET structure and method of manufacture such structure is provided with lowered Ceff and enhanced stress. The finFET structure includes a plurality of finFET structures and a stress material forming part of a gate stack and in a space between adjacent ones of the plurality of finFET structures.
US08877610B2 Method of patterning a substrate
In various embodiments, a method of patterning a substrate may include: forming an auxiliary layer on or above a substrate and forming a plasma etch mask layer on or above the auxiliary layer, wherein the auxiliary layer is configured such that it may be removed from the substrate more easily than the plasma etch mask layer; patterning the plasma etch mask layer and the auxiliary layer such that at least a portion of the substrate is exposed; patterning the substrate by means of a plasma etch process using the patterned plasma etch mask layer as a plasma etch mask.
US08877609B2 Method for manufacturing bonded substrate having an insulator layer in part of bonded substrate
A method for manufacturing a bonded substrate that has an insulator layer in part of the bonded substrate includes: partially forming a porous layer or forming a porous layer whose thickness partially varies on a bonding surface of the base substrate; performing a heat treatment to the base substrate having the porous layer formed thereon to change the porous layer into the insulator layer, and thereby forming the insulator layer whose thickness partially varies on the bonding surface of the base substrate; removing the insulator layer whose thickness varies by an amount corresponding to a thickness of a small-thickness portion by etching; bonding the bonding surface of the base substrate on which an unetched remaining insulator layer is exposed to a bond substrate; and reducing a thickness of the bonded bond substrate and thereby forming a thin film layer.
US08877608B2 Method for preparing GOI chip structure
The present invention provides a method for preparing a GOI chip structure, where, in the method, first, a SiGe on insulator (SGOI) chip structure is made by using a SMART CUT technology, and then, germanium condensation technology is performed on the SGOI chip structure, so as to obtain a GOI chip structure. Because the SGOI made by the Smart-Cut technology basically has no misfit dislocation in an SGOI/BOX interface, the threading dislocation density of the GOI is finally reduced. A technique of the present invention is simple, the high-quality GOI chip structure can be implemented, and the germanium condensation technology is greatly improved. An ion implantation technology and an annealing technology are quite mature techniques in the current semiconductor industry, so that such a preparation method greatly improves the possibility of wide use of the germanium concentration technology in the semiconductor industry.
US08877607B2 Method for manufacturing SOI substrate
To suppress desorption of hydrogen ions with which a single crystal semiconductor substrate is irradiated. A method for manufacturing an SOI substrate includes the following steps: irradiating a semiconductor substrate with carbon ions; irradiating the semiconductor substrate with a hydrogen ion after the irradiation with the carbon ion so as to form an embrittled region in the semiconductor substrate; disposing a surface of the semiconductor substrate and a surface of a base substrate to face each other and to be in contact with each other so that the semiconductor substrate and the base substrate are bonded; and heating the semiconductor substrate and the base substrate which are bonded to each other and separating the semiconductor substrate along the embrittled region so that a semiconductor layer is formed over the base substrate.
US08877606B2 Low cost fabrication of double box back gate silicon-on-insulator wafers with subsequent self aligned shallow trench isolation
A semiconductor substrate structure for manufacturing integrated circuit devices includes a bulk substrate; a lower insulating layer formed on the bulk substrate, the lower insulating layer formed from a pair of separate insulation layers having a bonding interface therebetween; an electrically conductive layer formed on the lower insulating layer; an insulator with etch stop characteristics formed on the electrically conductive layer; an upper insulating layer formed on the etch stop layer; and a semiconductor layer formed on the upper insulating layer. A scheme of subsequently building a dual-depth shallow trench isolation with the deeper STI in the back gate layer self-aligned to the shallower STI in the active region in such a semiconductor substrate is also disclosed.
US08877603B2 Semiconductor-on-oxide structure and method of forming
Semiconductor-on-oxide structures and related methods of forming such structures are disclosed. In one case, a method includes: forming a first dielectric layer over a substrate; forming a first conductive layer over the first dielectric layer, the first conductive layer including one of a metal or a silicide; forming a second dielectric layer over the first conductive layer; bonding a donor wafer to the second dielectric layer, the donor wafer including a donor dielectric and a semiconductor layer; cleaving the donor wafer to remove a portion of the donor semiconductor layer; forming at least one semiconductor isolation region from an unremoved portion of the donor semiconductor layer; and forming a contact to the first conductive layer through donor dielectric and the second dielectric layer.
US08877602B2 Mechanisms of doping oxide for forming shallow trench isolation
The embodiments described provide mechanisms for doping oxide in the STIs with carbon to make etch rate in the narrow and wide structures equal and also to make corners of wide STIs strong. Such carbon doping can be performed by ion beam (ion implant) or by plasma doping. The hard mask layer can be used to protect the silicon underneath from doping. By using the doping mechanism, the even surface topography of silicon and STI enables patterning of gate structures and ILD0 gapfill for advanced processing technology.
US08877598B2 Method of lithography process with an under isolation material layer
A method of forming a integrated circuit pattern. The method includes forming gate stacks on a substrate, two adjacent gate stacks of the gate stacks being spaced away by a dimension G; forming a nitrogen-containing layer on the gate stacks and the substrate; forming a dielectric material layer on the nitrogen-containing layer, the dielectric material layer having a thickness T substantially less than G/2; coating a photoresist layer on the dielectric material layer; and patterning the photoresist layer by a lithography process.
US08877597B2 Embedding metal silicide contact regions reliably into highly doped drain and source regions by a stop implantation
When forming metal silicide regions, such as nickel silicide regions, in sophisticated transistors requiring a shallow drain and source dopant profile, superior controllability may be achieved by incorporating a silicide stop layer. To this end, in some illustrative embodiments, a carbon species may be incorporated on the basis of an implantation process in order to significantly modify the metal diffusion during the silicidation process. Consequently, an increased thickness of the metal silicide may be provided, while not unduly increasing the probability of creating contact failures.
US08877590B1 Semiconductor memory device and method of manufacturing the same
A semiconductor memory device and a method of manufacturing the same are provided. The device includes interlayer insulating patterns and conductive patterns stacked alternately, vertical channel layers formed through the interlayer insulating patterns and the conductive patterns, a tunnel insulating layer formed to surround sidewalls of each of the vertical channel layers, and a multifunctional layer formed to surround the tunnel insulating layer. The multifunctional layer includes trap regions disposed at intersections between the vertical channel layers and the conductive patterns, respectively, and disposed to be in contact with the tunnel insulating layer, blocking regions disposed to be in contact with the trap regions and the conductive patterns, and sacrificial regions disposed between adjacent ones of the blocking regions.
US08877589B2 Methods of forming field effect transistors on substrates
The invention includes methods of forming field effect transistors. In one implementation, the invention encompasses a method of forming a field effect transistor on a substrate, where the field effect transistor comprises a pair of conductively doped source/drain regions, a channel region received intermediate the pair of source/drain regions, and a transistor gate received operably proximate the channel region. Such implementation includes conducting a dopant activation anneal of the pair of source/drain regions prior to depositing material from which a conductive portion of the transistor gate is made. Other aspects and implementations are contemplated.
US08877588B2 Methods of forming a three-dimensional semiconductor device with a dual stress channel and the resulting device
One method includes forming first and second spaced-apart trenches extending at least partially into a semiconducting substrate defining a fin structure for the device, forming a stress-inducing material having a first type of stress in the first trench, forming a second stress-inducing material in the second trench, the second stress-inducing material having a second stress that is a different than the first type of stress, and forming a gate structure around a portion of the fin structure. One device includes first and second spaced-apart trenches in a semiconducting substrate defining at least a portion of a fin for the device, a stress-inducing material having a first type of stress in the first trench, a second stress-inducing material in the second trench, the second stress-inducing material having a second stress that is a different type than the first stress, and a gate structure around a portion of the fin structure.
US08877583B2 Method of manufacturing a semiconductor device
In a method of forming an ohmic layer of a DRAM device, the metal silicide layer between the storage node contact plug and the lower electrode of a capacitor is formed as the ohmic layer by a first heat treatment under a first temperature and an instantaneous second heat treatment under a second temperature higher than the first temperature. Thus, the metal silicide layer has a thermo-stable crystal structure and little or no agglomeration occurs on the metal silicide layer in the high temperature process. Accordingly, the sheet resistance of the ohmic layer may not increase in spite of the subsequent high temperature process.
US08877580B1 Reduction of oxide recesses for gate height control
An intermediate semiconductor structure in fabrication includes a substrate. A plurality of gate structures is disposed over the substrate, with at least two of the gate structures separated by a sacrificial material between adjacent gate structures. A portion of the sacrificial material is removed to form openings within the sacrificial material, which are filled with a filler material having a high aspect ratio oxide. The excess filler material is removed. A portion of the gate structures is removed to form gate openings within the gate structures. The gate openings are filled with gate cap material and the excess gate cap material is removed to create a substantially planar surface overlaying the gate structures and the sacrificial material to control sacrificial oxide recess and gate height.
US08877576B2 Integrated circuit including a first channel and a second channel
An integrated circuit is disclosed. In one embodiment, the integrated circuit includes a first area and a second area. The first area is stress engineered to provide enhanced mobility in a first channel that has a first width. The second area is stress engineered to provide enhanced mobility in a second channel that has a second width. The first channel and the second channel provide a combined current that is greater than a single current provided via a single channel having a single width that is substantially equal to the sum of the first width and the second width.
US08877573B2 Thin film transistor substrate and method for manufacturing the same
A thin film transistor substrate and a method for manufacturing the same are discussed, in which the thin film transistor comprises a gate line and a data line arranged on a substrate to cross each other; a gate electrode connected with the gate line below the gate line; an active layer formed on the gate electrode; an etch stopper formed on the active layer; an ohmic contact layer formed on the etch stopper; source and drain electrodes formed on the ohmic contact layer; and a pixel electrode connected with the drain electrode. It is possible to prevent a crack from occurring in the gate insulating film during irradiation of the laser and prevent resistance of the gate electrode from being increased.
US08877567B2 Semiconductor device and method of forming uniform height insulating layer over interposer frame as standoff for semiconductor die
A semiconductor device has an interposer frame having a die attach area. A uniform height insulating layer is formed over the interposer frame at corners of the die attach area. The insulating layer can be formed as rectangular or circular pillars at the corners of the die attach area. The insulating layer can also be formed in a central region of the die attach area. A semiconductor die has a plurality of bumps formed over an active surface of the semiconductor die. The bumps can have a non-fusible portion and fusible portion. The semiconductor die is mounted over the insulating layer which provides a uniform standoff distance between the semiconductor die and interposer frame. The bumps of the semiconductor die are bonded to the interposer frame. An encapsulant is deposited over the semiconductor die and interposer frame and between the semiconductor die and interposer frame.
US08877562B2 Method of manufacturing light-emitting device
An LED includes a compound semiconductor structure having first and second compound layers and an active layer, first and second electrode layers atop the second compound semiconductor layer and connected to respective compound layers. An insulating layer is coated in regions other than where the first and second electrode layers are located. A conducting adhesive layer is formed atop the non-conductive substrate, connecting the same to the first electrode layer and insulating layer. Formed on one side surface of the non-conductive substrate and adhesive layer is a first electrode connection layer connected to the conducting adhesive layer. A second electrode connection layer formed on another side surface is connected to the second electrode layer. By forming connection layers on respective side surfaces of the light-emitting device, manufacturing costs can be reduced.
US08877556B2 Copper post solder bumps on substrates
A method comprises forming semiconductor flip chip interconnects having electrical connecting pads and electrically conductive posts terminating in distal ends operatively associated with the pads. We solder bump the distal ends by injection molding, mask the posts on the pads with a mask having a plurality of through hole reservoirs and align the reservoirs in the mask to be substantially concentric with the distal ends. Injecting liquid solder into the reservoirs and allowing it to cool provides solidified solder on the distal ends, which after mask removal produces a solder bumped substrate which we position on a wafer to leave a gap between the wafer and the substrate. The wafer has electrically conductive sites on the surface for soldering to the posts. Abutting the sites and the solder bumped posts followed by heating joins the wafer and substrate. The gap is optionally filled with a material comprising an underfill.
US08877550B2 Methods for forming resistive switching memory elements by heating deposited layers
Resistive switching nonvolatile memory elements are provided. A metal-containing layer and an oxide layer for a memory element can be heated using rapid thermal annealing techniques. During heating, the oxide layer may decompose and react with the metal-containing layer. Oxygen from the decomposing oxide layer may form a metal oxide with metal from the metal-containing layer. The resulting metal oxide may exhibit resistive switching for the resistive switching memory elements.
US08877545B2 Method of manufacturing solar cell
A manufacturing includes forming an insulating layer covering a portion of a first semiconductor layer on a semiconductor substrate, removing a portion of the first semiconductor layer which is not covered with the insulating layer with an etchant to expose a potion of the first main surface, and cleaning the first main surface using a cleaning liquid containing hydrofluoric acid. An etching rate by the etchant to etch the first semiconductor layer is higher than an etching rate by the etchant to etch a first surface layer of the insulating layer, the first surface layer being on the side opposite to the first semiconductor layer. An etching rate by the cleaning liquid to etch a second surface layer of the insulating layer, the second surface layer being on the first semiconductor layer side, is lower than an etching rate by the cleaning liquid to etch the first surface layer.
US08877543B2 Method for fabricating dye-sensitized solar cell
A method for fabricating a dye-sensitized solar cell is provided. The dye-sensitized solar cell includes a photo electrode including (a) mixing a TiO2 powder, a Zn-containing compound and an alkaline aqueous solution to form a mixture and performing a thermal process on the mixture to form a Zn-doped TiO2 powder; (b) mixing a binder solution with the Zn-doped TiO2 powder to form a paste; (c) coating the paste on a first electrode, and the paste is sintered to form a Zn-doped TiO2 porous layer, wherein the Zn-doped TiO2 porous layer and the first electrode construct a photo electrode; (d) disposing a second electrode opposite to the photo electrode after a dye is absorbed by the Zn-doped TiO2 porous layer; and (e) disposing an electrolyte between the photo electrode and the second electrode.
US08877539B2 Method for producing a photovoltaic cell including the preparation of the surface of a crystalline silicon substrate
A method for producing of at least one photovoltaic cell includes successively the anisotropic etching of a surface of a crystalline silicon substrate and the isotropic etching treatment of said surface. The isotropic etching treatment includes at least two successive operations respectively consisting in forming a silicon oxide thin film with a controlled average thickness, ranging between 10 nm and 500 nm and in removing said thin film thus-formed. The operation consisting in forming a silicon oxide thin film on the face of the substrate is carried out by a thermally activated dry oxidation. Such a method makes it possible to improve the surface quality of the surface of the substrate once said surface is etched in an anisotropic way.
US08877537B2 Method for manufacturing MEMS device
A method for manufacturing a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) device is provided. The method comprises: providing a semiconductor substrate, the semiconductor substrate having a metal interconnection structure (100) formed therein; forming a first sacrificial layer (201) on the surface of the semiconductor substrate, the material of the first sacrificial layer is amorphous carbon; etching the first sacrificial layer to form a first recess (301); covering and forming a first dielectric layer (401) on the surface of the first sacrificial layer; thinning the first dielectric layer by a chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) process, until exposing the first sacrificial layer; forming a micromechanical structure layer (500) on the surface of the first sacrificial layer and exposing the first sacrificial layer, wherein a part of the micromechanical structure layer is connected to the first dielectric layer. The method avoids polishing the amorphous carbon, shortens the period of production, and improves the production efficiency.
US08877536B1 Technique for forming a MEMS device using island structures
A method of manufacturing an integrated circuit including a MEMS device includes forming a structural layer above a substrate including at least one semiconductor device. The method includes forming an attachment to a first portion of the structural layer, the attachment having a thickness substantially greater than a thickness of the structural layer. In at least one embodiment of the method, the attachment is conjoined with the first portion of the structural layer and the first portion of the structural layer and the attachment are operative to mechanically move in unison. In at least one embodiment of the method, forming the attachment includes forming a patterned filler layer of a first material above the structural layer and forming a patterned conformal layer of a second material on the patterned filler layer. The filler layer has a thickness substantially greater than the thickness of the structural layer.
US08877532B2 Method of manufacturing organic electroluminescence display device
A method of manufacturing an organic electroluminescence display device includes an organic compound layer which is placed between a pair of electrodes and includes at least an emission layer, the organic compound layer being two-dimensionally arranged, includes forming the organic compound layer which is insoluble in water in an entire emission region on a substrate, providing a mask layer containing a water-soluble material in at least a part of a region on the organic compound layer, removing a part of the organic compound layer which is provided in a region which is other than the region in which the mask layer is provided, removing the mask layer, and forming, after the removing of the mask layer, a layer containing at least an alkali metal or an alkaline-earth metal in a region including at least the emission region.
US08877524B2 Emission tuning methods and devices fabricated utilizing methods
A method for fabricating light emitting diode (LED) chips comprising providing a plurality of LEDs, typically on a wafer, and coating the LEDs with a conversion material so that at least some light from the LEDs passes through the conversion material and is converted. The light emission from the LED chips comprises light from the conversion material, typically in combination with LED light. The emission characteristics of at least some of the LED chips is measured and at least some of the conversion material over the LEDs is removed to alter the emission characteristics of the LED chips. The invention is particularly applicable to fabricating LED chips on a wafer where the LED chips have light emission characteristics that are within a range of target emission characteristics. This target range can fall within an emission region on a CIE curve to reduce the need for binning of the LEDs from the wafer. The emission characteristics of the LED chips in the wafer can be tuned to the desired range by micro-machining the conversion material over the LEDs.
US08877521B2 Semiconductor ferroelectric device, manufacturing method for the same, and electronic device
A manufacturing method for a semiconductor device, the method including forming a thin film transistor by forming a polysilicon thin film on an insulating substrate, forming a gate electrode via a gate insulating film, and forming source/drain regions and a channel region by ion implantation in the polysilicon thin film by using the gate electrode as a mask, forming an interconnection layer on an interlayer dielectric film covering this thin film transistor and forming a first contact to be connected to the thin film transistor through the interlayer dielectric film, forming a silicon hydronitride film on the interlayer dielectric film so as to cover the interconnection layer, forming a lower electrode on this silicon hydronitride film and forming a second contact to be connected to the interconnection layer through the silicon hydronitride film, and forming a ferroelectric layer on the lower electrode.
US08877520B2 Ferroelectric film containing a perovskite structure oxide and method for manufacturing a ferroelectric film
A method for manufacturing a ferroelectric film including the steps of forming a burnable material film containing hydrogen of not less than 1% by weight on a substrate; forming an amorphous thin film including a ferroelectric material on the burnable material film; and oxidizing and crystallizing the amorphous thin film while supplying hydrogen to the amorphous thin film by burning the burnable material film through heating of the burnable material film and the amorphous thin film in an oxygen atmosphere, to thereby form a first ferroelectric film on the substrate.
US08877515B2 Measurement kit and an immunochromatography method
It is an object of the present invention to provide a measurement kit for developing a first developing solution and a second developing solution from different directions to suppress background noise, and an immunochromatography kit. The present invention provides a measurement kit, which comprises a first developing member for supplying a first developing solution and a second developing member for supplying a second developing solution, wherein the developing direction of the first developing solution is allowed to intersect with the developing direction of the second developing solution, so that development is carried out by developing the first and second developing solutions in different developing directions, and a water absorbent portion is established on the downstream of each of the developing directions.
US08877514B2 Aqueous solution for use as medium for the specific binding reaction of a binding pair
The present invention refers to an aqueous solution for use as medium for the specific binding reaction of a binding pair, wherein a first binding member recognizes its complementary second binding member. The solution contains a) a buffer to control pH; b) a compound A selected from a compound defined by the general formula I R1—[[CR2R3]P—O]q—R4, wherein R1 is hydrogen or hydroxy group, R2 for each unit independently is hydrogen or hydroxy group, R3 is hydrogen, methyl group, or ethyl group, R4 is hydrogen or alkyl group, p is an integer of from 2 to 10 and q is an integer of from 1 to 100, with the proviso that the compound at least carries two hydroxy groups; a polyol; or saccharide; and c) a non-ionic detergent.
US08877508B2 Devices and systems that deliver nitric oxide
The present disclosure relates to dressings, such as patches and bandages, and other devices and systems that deliver nitric oxide.
US08877506B2 Methods and systems using encapsulated tracers and chemicals for reservoir interrogation and manipulation
An apparatus, method, and system of reservoir interrogation. A tracer is encapsulating in a receptacle. The receptacle containing the tracer is injected into the reservoir. The tracer is analyzed for reservoir interrogation.
US08877504B2 Method for the selection of recombinant clones comprising a sequence encoding an antidote protein to toxic molecule
The present invention is related to a method for the selection of recombinant clones having integrated a gene of interest and a nucleotide sequence encoding a functional antidote protein to a toxic molecule, wherein said recombinant clones are the ones which survive following their integration into a host cell comprising in its genome a nucleotide sequence encoding said toxic molecule. The present invention is also related to a nucleic acid construct, a vector comprising said nucleic acid construct, a host cell and a cloning and/or sequencing kit for performing said method.
US08877490B2 Fermenter for generating biogas from pumpable organic material
The invention relates to a fermenter for generating biogas from pumpable organic material with a low content of organic dry matter (oTS), comprising at least one inlet for the pumpable organic material, at least one fixed bed reactor for the pumpable organic material with at least one primary and one secondary section and at least one outlet the remaining fermentation residue. Furthermore, the fermenter can optionally comprises at least one sedimentation chamber for the pumpable organic material, arranged between the primary and secondary sections and at least one recycling section connected to the sedimentation chamber and designed such that specific lighter fractions of the pumpable organic material can be recovered and reintroduced to the rising (primary) section of the fixed bed reactor or a preceding or subsequent conventional fermenter.
US08877487B2 Photobioreactor and a process for enhancing growth of photosynthetic organisms
A photobioreactor apparatus in which a reaction chamber contains a slurry of water, nutrients and photosynthetic organisms. The sidewall of the reaction chamber is constructed of translucent material, thereby permitting light to be conveyed into the slurry to promote photosynthesis. The interior of the reaction chamber is in fluid communication with a gas dispenser. A lift member is disposed in the reaction chamber and gas is introduced in the slurry beneath the lift member, thereby providing buoyancy to lift the lift member, thereby providing agitation and movement of the slurry within the photobioreactor and enhancing growth of photosynthetic organisms.
US08877480B2 Trichoderma strains that induce resistance to plant diseases and/or increase plant growth
The present invention relates to a method for enhancing growth of plants which comprises contacting a Trichoderma strain with the plant or a plant seed under conditions effective for the Trichoderma strain to colonize the roots of the plant or a plant grown from the plant seed, thereby creating a plant-Trichoderma system. The plant or plant seed is grown under conditions effective to sustain the plant-Trichoderma system in a planting medium and to enhance plant growth, where the Trichoderma strain is selected from the group consisting of Trichoderma atroviride strain WW10TC4 (ATCC accession number PTA 9707), Trichoderma harzianum strain RR17Bc (ATCC accession number PTA 9708), Trichoderma harzianum strain F11Bab (ATCC accession number PTA 9709), and combinations thereof. Also, disclosed are methods of enhancing resistance of plants to abiotic stress, increasing nitrogen use efficacy in plants, reducing nitrous oxide emissions in air, reducing leaching of nitrates into soil and water, and enhancing sequestration of carbon from air.
US08877479B2 Halomonas strain WDG195-related alpha-amylases, and methods of use, thereof
Compositions and methods relating to an alpha-amylase enzyme obtained from Halomonas variabilis WDG195 are described.
US08877478B2 Phytases, nucleic acids encoding them and methods for making and using them
This invention relates to phytases, polynucleotides encoding them, uses of the polynucleotides and polypeptides of the invention, as well as the production and isolation of such polynucleotides and polypeptides. In particular, the invention provides polypeptides having phytase activity under high temperature conditions, and phytases that retain activity after exposure to high temperatures. The phytases of the invention can be thermotolerant and/or thermostable at low temperatures, in addition to higher temperatures. The phytases of the invention can be used in foodstuffs to improve the feeding value of phytate rich ingredients. The phytases of the invention can be formulated as foods or feeds or supplements for either to, e.g., aid in the digestion of phytate. The foods or feeds of the invention can be in the form of pellets, liquids, powders and the like. In one aspect, phytases of the invention are stabile against thermal denaturation during pelleting; and this decreases the cost of the phytase product while maintaining in vivo efficacy and detection of activity in feed.
US08877477B2 Temperature-responsive polymer particles in protein separation applications
The present invention relates to a method for isolating proteins from a solution containing the proteins. The invention also relates to a method for the chromatographic separation of proteins. The present invention also relates to crosslinked hydroxylic polymer particles functionalized with temperature-responsive copolymer, and to methods of preparing such particles.
US08877473B2 Formulations of recombinant furin
The present application provides stabilized formulations of furin (e.g., rfurin) containing a sugar, sugar alcohol, and/or non-ionic surfactant. As compared to non-stabilized compositions, the furin formulations disclosed herein retain greater amounts of furin activity and monomeric furin content, while reducing furin aggregation when stored and/or subjected to mechanical stress. Also provided are methods for stably diluting furin (e.g., rfurin) compositions.
US08877472B2 Electron beam irradiation processing of biomass and saccharification thereof
Corn or soy plant biomass is electron beam irradiation processed and saccharified to produce sugars. The sugars are then converted to products such as alcohols, organic acids, hydrocarbons, hydrogen, proteins, carbohydrates, fats, oils, lipids, amino acids, vitamins, and mixtures thereof.
US08877468B2 Method for converting biomass to methane or ethanol
A method for enhancing the treatment of lignocellulose-containing materials by biotreatment wherein such lignocellulose-containing materials, normally resistant to biotreatment, are first subjected to a low-temperature, long-residence time pyrolysis at about 175° C. to about 325° C. for about 0.1 hour to about 2.0 hours, wherein a substantial portion of the incoming material is distilled into water-soluble compounds amenable to anaerobic biotreatment. Exemplary applications of the method include pyrolytic pre-treatment of wastewater sludges, cellulosic wastes, wood, peat, plant residues, low-grade coal, and the like to enhance methane gas production in anaerobic digestion and/or oxygen-limited or oxygen-starved fermentation to produce ethanol.
US08877467B2 Processing biomass
Biomass feedstocks (e.g., plant biomass, animal biomass, and municipal waste biomass) are processed to produce useful products, such as fuels. For example, systems are described that can use feedstock materials, such as cellulosic and/or lignocellulosic materials and/or starchy materials, to produce a product or intermediate, e.g., energy, a food, a fuel, or a material.
US08877466B2 Bacterial cells having a glyoxylate shunt for the manufacture of succinic acid
The present invention is concerned with bacteria for the production of succinic acid. Specifically, the invention relates to a bacterial cell of the genus Pasteurella comprising a heterologous polypeptide having isocitrate lyase activity and a heterologous polypeptide having malate synthase activity. Further, the present invention contemplates a polynucleotide comprising a nucleic acid encoding a polypeptide having isocitrate lyase activity and a nucleic acid encoding a polypeptide having malate synthase activity. Finally, the present invention relates to the use of a bacterial cell of the invention for the manufacture of succinic acid.
US08877465B2 Production of ultrapure EPA and polar lipids from largely heterotrophic culture
Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) compositions and EPA-rich polar lipids for prophylactic or therapeutic applications are described. Production from certain cultured micro-organisms (like Nitzschia laevis) promotes synthesis of EPA, including polar lipids including EPA. The EPA-rich polar lipids themselves may be used as polar compounds. EPA can be selectively hydrolysed from particular positions in isolated polar lipids by lipase activity, then optionally further purified. The process bypasses reliance on diminishing fish stocks and on physico-chemical processes that may not adequately separate desirable n-3 HUFAs from unwanted products like DHA also found in fish oil and cultured organisms.
US08877464B2 Qualitative and quantitative detection of microbial nucleic acids
The present invention relates to new methods and uses for the qualitative and quantitative detection of microbial nucleic acids using at least a first control nucleic acid, or a first and a second control nucleic acid in different concentrations. The method is based on amplification of nucleic acids, for example the polymerase chain reaction. Further provided are kits comprising components for performing said methods and uses.
US08877462B2 Combinatorial DNA library for producing modified N-glycans in lower eukaryotes
The present invention relates to eukaryotic host cells having modified oligosaccharides which may be modified further by heterologous expression of a set of glycosyltransferases, sugar transporters and mannosidases to become host-strains for the production of mammalian, e.g., human therapeutic glycoproteins. The invention provides nucleic acid molecules and combinatorial libraries which can be used to successfully target and express mammalian enzymatic activities such as those involved in glycosylation to intracellular compartments in a eukaryotic host cell. The process provides an engineered host cell which can be used to express and target any desirable gene(s) involved in glycosylation. Host cells with modified oligosaccharides are created or selected. N-glycans made in the engineered host cells have a Man5GlcNAc2 core structure which may then be modified further by heterologous expression of one or more enzymes, e.g., glycosyltransferases, sugar transporters and mannosidases, to yield human-like glycoproteins.
US08877459B2 Identification of pathogens in body fluids
Identification of infectious pathogens, particularly viruses, bacteria and other microorganisms is effected with a method whereby pathogens of acute infections can be identified, without first culturing them in external nutrient media, by mass spectrometric measurement of their protein profiles obtained from pathogens directly precipitated from body fluid into pellets by centrifuging. With this method, pathogens which cause acute infections can be identified in less than one hour.
US08877457B2 Device for examining myocardial toxicity, chip for examining myocardial toxicity and method for examining myocardial toxicity
Provided is a device and a method for examining myocardial toxicity, which can be realized in vitro in an equivalent manner as those conventionally carried out in vivo. A cell population as a pulsating pacemaker is arranged on a transparent substrate. Myocardial pulsating cells are arranged while being spaced apart appropriately. Fibroblast cells are arranged with/connected to the myocardial pulsating cells to form a cell network. Each of the myocardial pulsating cells and fibroblast cells forming the network is arranged on a transparent electrode provided on the transparent substrate. The cells forming the network are exposed to a flow of a solution containing a drug and QT delay due to the drug is evaluated.
US08877452B2 Nitrite-reductase (NIRB) as potential anti-tubercular target and a method to detect the severity of tuberculosis disease
The present invention discloses functional nitrite reductase as a potential drug target for anti-tubercular drug development. The present invention also relates to the development of an easy method for identification of nitrite in clinical samples as well as its correlation with the severity of the disease. Presence of active as well as dormant/latent stages of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) could be identified from nitrite in clinical samples like sputum of potential TB patients.
US08877449B2 Method for obtaining pancreatic progenitor cell using NEPH3
The present invention provides markers that can selectively distinguish pancreatic progenitor cells. The present invention also provides methods for distinguishing pancreatic progenitor cells by using the markers as an indicator, and reagents to be used in the methods.The present inventors successfully identified the surface marker Nephrin-like 3 (Neph3) which is specifically expressed in pancreatic progenitor cells, and isolated pancreatic progenitor cells using the marker as an indicator or such. Viable pancreatic progenitor cells can be selected by using Neph3 as an indicator without using translated products and transcripts of any foreign genes. The marker is useful in preparing and identifying pancreatic progenitor cells which are applied to regenerative medicine or such for treatment of pancreatic diseases.
US08877448B2 Method of making recombinant influenza virus
The invention provides a composition useful to prepare influenza A viruses, e.g., in the absence of helper virus.
US08877446B2 Method for detecting protein-protein interactions in cells
The present invention relates to a method for detecting protein-protein interactions in living cells, and more particularly, to a method for providing cells comprising a first construct and a second construct, wherein the first construct comprises a polynucleotide encoding a first fusion protein which comprises a bait protein, a first fluorescent protein and a CBD (cellulose-binding domain) protein, and wherein the second construct comprises a polynucleotide encoding a second fusion protein which comprises a prey protein and a second fluorescent protein so as to allow formation of inclusion bodies, and detecting interactions between the bait protein and the prey protein that are displayed by inclusion bodies, a method for isolating the prey protein bound to the bait protein using the cells comprising the constructs, the cells, and a kit for detecting protein-protein interactions, comprising the constructs.
US08877445B2 Methods for identification of tumor phenotype and treatment
The disclosure relates to methods for identifying a tumor as an E2F-responsive gene over-expressing (ERGO) tumor, methods of determining the likelihood that an ERGO tumor patient will survive to a future date, methods of treating an ERGO tumor in a patient, and methods of selecting patients diagnosed as ERGO tumor prostate cancer patients for aggressive clinical treatment. The methods of the disclosure are applicable to ERGO tumors present in different human organs and tissues such as breast, lung, thyroid, ovary, and prostate.
US08877444B2 Marker for identifying variety/line of plant of the genus Saccharum and the use thereof
It is an object of the present invention to provide a method for identifying the variety/line of a plant of the genus Saccharum with the use of novel DNA markers that allow high-precision identification of a wide range of varieties/lines of plants of the genus Saccharum. A method for identifying the variety/line of a plant of the genus Saccharum, comprising using a simple sequence repeat polymorphism in at least one DNA sequence selected from SEQ ID NOS: 1 to 12 is provided.
US08877439B2 Method for rapidly evaluating performance of short interfering RNA with novel chemical modifications
It is an object of the instant invention to provide a method for the rapid evaluation of novel sugar modifications to be used in siRNA synthesis including the rapid evaluation of chemical modification patterns within the siRNA to effectuate increased stability and ultimately increased efficacy of a siRNA therapeutic. It is a further object of the instant invention to provide novel nucleosides useful for siRNA therapy.
US08877436B2 Fast results hybrid capture assay on an automated platform
The present invention comprises a method that provides fast and reliable results for detecting the presence of a target nucleic acid molecule in a sample.
US08877435B2 Methods and means for producing efficient silencing construct using recombinational cloning
Methods and means are provided for producing chimeric nucleic acid constructs capable of producing dsRNA for silencing target nucleic acid sequences of interest using recombinational cloning.
US08877431B2 Process for producing liquid ejection head
A process for producing a liquid ejection head by providing, in one chip, a liquid ejection head having a portion for ejection in which an ejection orifice array is arranged and a side portion having no ejection orifice array, these portions being provided with a member of a photosensitive material, arranging the chip on a common substrate in such a chip array that these two portions are alternately arranged, and separating each chip from the substrate, the process including the steps of relatively moving a reticle of an aligner along the chip array for a photosensitive material on the substrate to expose each chip, and developing the material to obtain the member. A first reticle for forming the portion for ejection and a second reticle for forming only the side portion are used. The exposure includes a first and a second exposure treatment respectively by the first and second reticles.
US08877427B2 Photosensitive resin composition and circuit board with metal support using the same
A photosensitive resin composition contains a component (A) and at least one of a component (B) and a component (C). In addition, in the circuit board with metal support including: a metal support; a base insulating layer; a conductive layer formed of a wiring circuit pattern; and a cover insulating layer, at least one of the above-mentioned base insulating layer and cover insulating layer is made of the above-mentioned photosensitive resin composition. (A) a 1,4-dihydropyridine derivative represented by the following general formula (1) where R1 represents an alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms; and R2 and R3 each represent a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 or 2 carbon atoms and may be identical to or different from each other; (B) the following (x) and (y): (x) a carboxyl group-containing linear polymer; and (y) an epoxy resin (c) a linear polymer having a carboxyl group and an epoxy group.
US08877418B2 Developing method and image forming method
The developing method includes developing an electrostatic latent image on an image bearing member with a two-component developer including a toner and a carrier and born on at least one developer bearing member, whose surface moves at a linear speed of from 300 mm/sec to 2,000 mm/sec. The carrier includes a particulate core material; and a cover layer located on a surface of the core material and including a crosslinked material obtained by crosslinking a resin including a first unit having a specific tris(trialkylsiloxy) silyl group and a second unit having a specific alkoxysilyl group having a crosslinking ability. Each of the first unit and the second unit is included in the resin in a molar ratio of from 0.1 to 0.9 based on all the units included in the resin.
US08877417B2 Toner
In a toner formed of toner particles which include a colorant, a wax, and a binder resin containing a crystalline resin (a) primarily composed of a polyester, the crystalline resin has an endothermic peak temperature (Tp) in a range of 50° C. to 80° C., and in a viscoelasticity measurement of the toner, G″(Tp−10) is in a range of 5.0×107 to 5.0×108 Pa, G″(Tp+10) is in a range of 5.0×105 to 5.0×106 Pa, and G″(Tp−20), G″(Tp−10), G″(Tp+10), and G″(Tp+30) satisfy specific relationships.
US08877413B2 Flexible imaging members comprising improved ground strip
The presently disclosed embodiments relate generally to a flexible imaging member having a novel ground strip layer. The flexible imaging member may have a full flexible imaging member structure with an anticurl backing coating (ACBC) as well as a structurally simplified flexible imaging member being ACBC-free.
US08877412B2 Image forming apparatus and process cartridge
An image forming apparatus includes at least an electrophotographic photoreceptor having at least a conductive support, an undercoat layer, and a photosensitive layer; a charging device that charges the surface of the electrophotographic photoreceptor in a contact charging mode, in which only DC voltage is applied; an electrostatic latent image forming device that exposes the surface of the charged electrophotographic photoreceptor to form an electrostatic latent image; a developing device that develops the electrostatic latent image by a developer to form a toner image; and a transfer device that directly transfers the toner image from the electrophotographic photoreceptor to a transfer medium; and does not include an erasing device for erasing the surface of the electrophotographic photoreceptor after the toner image is transferred onto the transfer medium by the transfer device and before the surface of the electrophotographic photoreceptor is charged by the charging device.
US08877410B2 Data process for E-beam lithography
The present disclosure provides a dithering method of increasing wafer throughput by an electron beam lithography system. The dithering method generates an edge map from a vertex map. The vertex map is generated from an integrated circuit design layout (such as an original pattern bitmap). A gray map (also referred to as a pattern gray map) is also generated from the integrated circuit design layout. By combining the edge map with the gray map, a modified integrated circuit design layout (modified pattern bitmap) is generated for use by the electron beam lithography system.
US08877407B2 Polymer electrolyte fuel cell and method for producing the same
A polymer electrolyte fuel cell includes a membrane electrode assembly including an anode, a cathode, and an electrolyte membrane, an anode-side separator having a fuel flow channel for supplying fuel, and a cathode-side separator having an oxidant flow channel for supplying oxidant. The anode includes an anode catalyst layer and an anode diffusion layer, and the cathode includes a cathode catalyst layer and a cathode diffusion layer. At least one of the fuel flow channel and the oxidant flow channel has a plurality of parallel linear portions. The anode catalyst layer or the cathode catalyst layer has a plurality of belt-like first regions facing the linear portions and at least one second region between the adjacent first regions. The amount of catalyst in the first regions per unit area is on average larger than the amount of catalyst in the at least one second region per unit area.
US08877406B2 Fuel cell, and method of manufacturing a fuel cell
A fuel cell includes a separator and a power generating body. The separator and power generating body are laminated each other. The power generating body is equipped at least with an electrolyte membrane. The fuel cell comprises: a sealing part that seals reaction gas supplied for electrochemical reactions at the fuel cell between the power generating body and the separator at an outer circumference part of the fuel cell, wherein a convex part and a recess are fit together in the sealing part. The convex part is formed projecting in the lamination direction on one of the power generating body and the separator, and the recess is formed recessed in the lamination direction on the other of the power generating body and the separator. At least one of the convex part and the recess is formed with a polymer material that expands with moisture absorption.
US08877405B2 Fuel cell including membrane electrode assembly to maintain humidity condition
A fuel cell includes: a membrane electrode assembly containing an anode and a cathode which are disposed opposite to one another via an electrolytic membrane; an anode channel plate adjacent to the anode and supplying a prescribed fuel to the anode; and a cathode channel plate adjacent to the cathode, supplying air to the cathode and containing a platy member which is elongated in a direction different from a supplying direction of the air to the cathode.
US08877403B2 Drainage system for fuel cell
A drainage system for a fuel cell, including a gas-liquid separator configured to separate fuel gas and liquid water from a gas-liquid mixture discharged from the fuel cell, a water tank configured to receive the liquid water separated by the gas-liquid separator, a drain valve in fluid communication with the water tank, the drain valve configured to selectively discharge the liquid water from the water tank, and a control unit configured to selectively open and close the drain valve. The water tank includes a lower portion having a first horizontal cross sectional area and an upper portion having a second horizontal cross sectional area, the first horizontal cross sectional area being smaller than the second horizontal cross sectional area. The control unit opens and closes the drain valve to maintain a first water level within the upper portion of the water tank when the fuel cell is in an operating state and to maintain a second water level within the lower portion of the water tank when the fuel cell is in a stopped state.
US08877399B2 SOFC hot box components
Various hot box fuel cell system components are provided, such as heat exchangers, steam generator and other components.
US08877395B2 Fuel cell system and operation method thereof
A fuel cell system capable of improving performance and stability of the system by using stack off-gas includes: a power generation unit that generates power through an electrochemical reaction of a first fuel and a first oxidant; a reforming unit that supplies the first fuel to the power generation unit; a heating unit that receives second fuel and a second oxidant, combusts the second fuel, and is thermal-conductively coupled with the reforming unit; and a connection unit that connects the heating unit with the power generation unit to be in fluid communication and supplies off-gas of the power generation unit to the heating unit. The off-gas is supplied to the heating unit in a pulse type.
US08877394B2 Fuel cell system
The fuel cell system includes a fuel cell stack, a fuel supply supplying a fuel to the fuel cell stack, and an oxidizing agent supply supplying an oxidizing agent to the fuel cell stack. The fuel cell stack includes a first end plate, a moisture exchanger, an electrical generator, and a second end plate. The moisture exchanger includes a first area where a dried supply oxidizing agent flows, a second area where a humid emission fuel flows, and a third area where a humid emission oxidizing agent flows, and the first area exchanges moisture with the second and third areas using a moisture exchange layer.
US08877389B2 Lithium secondary cell
There is provided a lithium secondary cell having specifically excellent discharge capacity, rate characteristics and further cycle characteristics and improved incombustibility (safety). The lithium secondary cell comprises a negative electrode, a non-aqueous electrolytic solution and a positive electrode, in which an active material for the negative electrode comprises lithium titanate and the non-aqueous electrolytic solution comprises a fluorine-containing solvent.
US08877387B2 Method for producing lithium ion secondary battery
The method for producing a lithium ion secondary battery includes: selecting a positive electrode sheet, negative electrode sheet, and separator sheet; constructing an electrode assembly by superimposing the selected sheets; and housing the above electrode assembly in a battery case along with an electrolyte solution. In the method, at least one of the sheets is selected such that it satisfies the relationship 0.8
US08877381B2 Production process for composite oxide, positive-electrode active material for lithium-ion secondary battery and lithium-ion secondary battery
A composite oxide is produced via the following: a raw-material mixture preparation step of preparing a raw-material mixture by mixing a metallic-compound raw material and a molten-salt raw material with each other, the metallic-compound raw material at least including one or more kinds of Mn-containing metallic compounds being selected from the group consisting of oxides, hydroxides and metallic salts that include one or more kinds of metallic elements in which Mn is essential, the molten-salt raw material including lithium hydroxide and lithium nitrate, and exhibiting a proportion of the lithium hydroxide with respect to the lithium nitrate (i.e., (Lithium Hydroxide)/(Lithium Nitrate)) that falls in a range of from 0.05 or more to less than 1 by molar ratio; a molten reaction step of reacting said raw-material mixture at from 300° C. or more to 550° C. or less by melting it: and a recovery step of recovering said composite oxide being generated from said raw-material mixture that has undergone the reaction.
US08877371B2 Rechargeable battery
A rechargeable battery including an electrode assembly including a first electrode and a second electrode; a metal support plate electrically connected to the first electrode, the metal support plate being disposed on at least one side of the electrode assembly; and a case electrically connected to the second electrode and electrically insulated from the metal support plate, the case accommodating the electrode assembly and the metal support plate, wherein the metal support plate includes a protrusion protruding toward an inner side of the case.
US08877370B2 Battery pack having a sensor a gas sensor in the cap assembly
A battery having a can containing an electrode assembly and an electrolyte and a cap assembly with a cap plate having an electrolyte injection unit, the cap plate is coupled to the can and an upper cover is coupled to the cap plate. The battery further includes a gas sensor located within the cap assembly to detect leakage of the electrolyte into the cap assembly and a protective circuit module mounted to the upper cover and electrically coupled to the gas sensor, the protective circuit module is adapted to stop a charge/discharge operation of the battery and discharge the battery upon receipt of a signal from the gas sensor indicating detection of leakage of the electrolyte into the cap assembly.
US08877367B2 High energy storage capacitor by embedding tunneling nano-structures
In an All-Electron Battery (AEB), inclusions embedded in an active region between two electrodes of a capacitor provide enhanced energy storage. Electrons can tunnel to/from and/or between the inclusions, thereby increasing the charge storage density relative to a conventional capacitor. One or more barrier layers is present in an AEB to block DC current flow through the device. The AEB effect can be enhanced by using multi-layer active regions having inclusion layers with the inclusions separated by spacer layers that don't have the inclusions. The use of cylindrical geometry or wrap around electrodes and/or barrier layers in a planar geometry can enhance the basic AEB effect. Other physical effects that can be employed in connection with the AEB effect are excited state energy storage, and formation of a Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC).
US08877365B2 Redox flow cell rebalancing
A redox cell rebalance system is provided. In some embodiments, the rebalance system includes electrochemical cell and a photochemical cell. In some embodiments, the photochemical cell contains a source of ultraviolet radiation for producing HCl from H2 and Cl2 generated by the system. The HCl product may be collected or circulated back through the system for the rebalancing of electrolytes. A rebalance cell for use in a rebalance system is also provided. In some embodiments, the rebalance cell is the combination of an electrochemical cell and a photochemical cell. In some embodiments, a source of ultraviolet radiation is housed in the cathode compartment of the rebalance cell. In some embodiments, the source of ultraviolet radiation is used to effect the formation of HCl from H2 and Cl2 present in the rebalance cell. The HCl is dissolved in aqueous electrolytes contained in the rebalance cell, which can subsequently be circulated through a rebalance system for the rebalancing of redox cells.
US08877362B2 Rechargeable battery pack
A rechargeable battery pack including a cell having an electrode assembly and a pouch for retaining the electrode assembly therein; an electrode tab connected to a lead tab of the cell; and a temperature sensor received in a receiving groove of the electrode tab.
US08877361B2 Rechargeable battery
A rechargeable battery includes an electrode assembly including a first electrode, a second electrode, and a separator between the first and second electrodes; a case housing the electrode assembly; and a cap assembly connected to the case. The cap assembly includes a first tab electrically connected to the first electrode, a second tab electrically connected to the second electrode, an deformable plate capable of electrically connecting the first tab and the second tab by being deformed due to a pressure increase, and an intermediate member formed between the first tab and the deformable plate.
US08877360B2 Magnetic recording medium with a plurality of pinning portions in the magnetic layer
According to one embodiment, a perpendicular magnetic recording medium includes a substrate, and a multilayered magnetic recording layer formed on the substrate by alternately stacking two or more magnetic layers and two or more nonmagnetic layers. The magnetic layers and nonmagnetic layers of the multilayered magnetic recording layer are continuous layers. The magnetic layer includes a magnetic material portion, and a plurality of pinning sites dispersed in the magnetic material portion and made of a nonmagnetic metal different from a nonmagnetic material as a main component of the nonmagnetic layer. This perpendicular magnetic recording medium has magnetic characteristics by which a gradient α of a magnetization curve near the coercive force is 5 or more.
US08877356B2 OLED device with stabilized yellow light-emitting layer
The invention provides an OLED device including an anode, a cathode and a yellow light-emitting layer located therebetween, the light-emitting layer comprising a 9,10-diarylanthracene host; a yellow light-emitting 5,6,11,12-tetraphenyltetracene derivative where as least 1 of the phenyl groups is further substituted and a non-light-emitting diarylamine substituted 9,10-diarylsubstituted anthracene stabuilizer. Devices of the invention provide improvement in features such as stability and efficiency while maintaining excellent color.
US08877353B2 Platinum (II) tetradentate ONCN complexes for organic light-emitting diode applications
Described are novel platinum (II) containing organometallic materials. These materials show green to orange emissions with high emission quantum efficiencies. Using the materials as emitting materials; pure green emitting organic light-emitting diodes can be fabricated. Since the novel platinum (II) containing organometallic materials are soluble in common solvents, solution process methods such as spin coating and printing can be used for device fabrication.
US08877352B2 Biscarbazole derivative, material for organic electroluminescence device and organic electroluminescence device using the same
A biscarbazole derivative of the invention is represented by a formula (1A) or (1B) below. In the formula (1A) or (1B): A1 represents a substituted or unsubstituted nitrogen-containing heterocyclic group having 1 to 30 ring carbon atoms; A2 represents a substituted or unsubstituted aromatic hydrocarbon group having 6 to 30 ring carbon atoms, or substituted or unsubstituted nitrogen-containing heterocyclic group having 1 to 30 ring carbon atoms; X1 and X2 each are a linking group; Y1 to Y4 each represent a substituent; p and q represent an integer of 1 to 4; and r and s represent an integer of 1 to 3.
US08877348B2 Surface-treated steel sheet and resin-coated steel sheet
It is an object to provide a surface-treated steel sheet which contains no Cr, which is excellent in wet resin adhesion, and which can be used as an alternative to a conventional tin-free steel sheet and to provide a resin-coated steel sheet produced by coating the surface-treated steel sheet with resin. A surface-treated steel sheet including an adhesive layer which is disposed on at least one surface of the steel sheet and which contains Ti and at least one selected from the group consisting of Co, Fe, Ni, V, Cu, Mn, and Zn, the ratio of the total amount of Co, Fe, Ni, V, Cu, Mn, and Zn to the amount of Ti contained therein being 0.01 to ten on a mass basis, and a method for producing the surface-treated steel sheet.
US08877344B2 Radically polymerizable phenothiazine macromonomer for use in the coating of medical devices
The present invention is directed to phenothiazine-based macromonomer compounds and methods of making the same.
US08877343B2 Laminated polyester film
The present invention provides a laminated polyester film which can be prevented from suffering from occurrence of interference fringes owing to reflection of external light and is excellent in adhesion to various surface functional layers such as a hard coat. The laminated polyester film of the present invention comprises a polyester film and a coating layer formed on at least one surface of the polyester film which is produced by applying a coating solution comprising a compound having a condensed polycyclic aromatic structure and an oxazoline compound or an epoxy compound thereonto, which coating layer has a thickness of 0.04 to 0.15 μm.
US08877342B2 Alumina forming bimetallic tube for refinery process furnaces and method of making and using
Provided is a bimetallic tube for transport of hydrocarbon feedstocks in refinery process furnaces, and more particularly in furnace radiant coils, including: i) an outer tube layer being formed from stainless steels including chromium in the range of 15.0 to 26.0 wt. % based on the total weight of the stainless steel; ii) an inner tube layer being formed from an alumina forming bulk alloy including 5.0 to 10.0 wt. % of Al, 20.0 wt. % to 25.0 wt. % Cr, less than 0.4 wt. % Si, and at least 35.0 wt. % Fe with the balance being Ni, wherein the inner tube layer is formed plasma powder welding the alumina forming bulk alloy on the inner surface of the outer tube layer; and iii) an oxide layer formed on the surface of the inner tube layer, wherein the oxide layer is substantially comprised of alumina, chromia, silica, mullite, spinels, or mixtures thereof.
US08877340B2 Graphene growth on a non-hexagonal lattice
A graphene layer is formed on a crystallographic surface having a non-hexagonal symmetry. The crystallographic surface can be a surface of a single crystalline semiconductor carbide layer. The non-hexagonal symmetry surface of the single crystalline semiconductor carbide layer is annealed at an elevated temperature in ultra-high vacuum environment to form the graphene layer. During the anneal, the semiconductor atoms on the non-hexagonal surface of the single crystalline semiconductor carbide layer are evaporated selective to the carbon atoms. As the semiconductor atoms are selectively removed, the carbon concentration on the surface of the semiconductor-carbon alloy layer increases. Despite the non-hexagonal symmetry of the surface of the semiconductor-carbon alloy layer, the remaining carbon atoms can coalesce to form a graphene layer having hexagonal symmetry.
US08877339B2 Sodium hexatitanate and method for production thereof
Sodium hexatitanate having a mean particle diameter in the range of 2-5 μm and an indeterminate shape, and is either obtained by firing a milled mixture obtained as a result of mechanochemical milling of a titanium source and a sodium source or prepared from sodium trititanate obtained by firing a milled mixture obtained as a result of mechanochemical milling of a titanium source and a sodium source.
US08877337B2 Pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet
Provided is a PSA sheet comprising a PVC film (support) provided with PSA layer formed of an aqueous dispersion-type PSA composition, which exhibits a smooth unwinding motion. The PVC film can be obtained by molding a PVC composition comprising PVC and a metal soap. The metal soap comprises an alkali earth metal soap and zinc soap. At least part of the alkali earth metal soap is a stearate and at least part of the zinc soap is zinc laurate.
US08877336B2 Medicament dispenser device
According to the invention there is provided a dispenser device for dispensing a medicament, the device including at least one metallic component having at least one non-metallic surface which comes into contact with the medicament during storage or use of the device, in which said non-metallic surface has an interface with the underlying metallic component which substantially comprises metal-fluoride and/or metal carbide moieties.
US08877330B2 Fiber-reinforced composite sheet
The present invention provides a light-weight fiber-reinforced composite material that has excellent flame retardance and mechanical properties and never emits a halogen gas. The present invention also provides a prepreg and en epoxy resin composition suited to obtain the above described fiber-reinforced composite material. The present invention also provides an integrated molding which is produced using the above described fiber-reinforced composite material, thereby suitable for use in electric/electronic casings. The epoxy resin composition is such that it contains the following components [A], [B] and [C]: [A] epoxy resin, [B] amine curing agent, and [C] phosphorus compound, wherein the concentration of the component [C] is 0.2 to 15% by weight in terms of phosphorus atom concentration.
US08877327B2 Silicone coating as a sealing layer for a decoration layer
A glass or glass ceramic article is provided that has a glass or glass ceramic substrate with a decorative coating. The decorative coating includes a decoration layer and a sealing layer. The decoration layer is applied to at least some surface portions of the glass or glass ceramic substrate, and the sealing layer is applied to at least portions of the decoration layer. The decoration layer is a cured sol-gel coating having inorganic solid particles, and the sealing layer is a cured silicone coating comprising inorganic solid particles. Methods for producing such glass or glass ceramic articles are also provided.
US08877326B1 Enhanced material adhesive composites
Apparatus and method for a photoluminescent composite. The composite comprises a film layer (e.g., clear, mirrored, reflective, or graphically printed) and a material mixture (e.g., comprising epoxy, urethane, polyurethane, or silicone) deposited above the film layer. The composite further comprises a pigment mixture having a photoluminescent property (e.g., phosphorescence or fluorescence). In one embodiment, the material mixture comprises the pigment mixture. The film layer may comprise a vinyl material. The composite may further include a double-sided adhesive, where a portion of the double-sided adhesive is deposited above a top portion of the film. The material mixture may have a thickness greater than 0.040 inches thick.
US08877325B2 Coated films
Disclosed is a coating composition and coated film having the coating composition adhered thereto in which the coating composition comprises particulate filler; binder composition comprising acrylic polymer and ethylene acrylic acid copolymers; non-cross-linking adhesion promoter; and optionally urethane polymer, styrene-acrylic copolymer, or a combination thereof; and wherein cross-linker(s) are substantially absent from the composition; and wherein the coated film has a 45° Gloss (ASTM D2457) of less than 30 or 25 or 20 or 15. The coated film is useful for pressure sensitive labels for thermal transfer ribbon printing labels.
US08877324B2 Polyamides as binders for printing inks
One aspect of the present invention relates to the use of a polyamide as a binder for printing inks, wherein the polyamide is a reaction product (P) of (1) one or more compounds which are chosen from the group of primary and/or secondary monoamines and polyamines with (2) a dimer fatty acid and (3) a carboxylic monoacid, with the proviso that the dimer fatty acid (2) building block of (P) contains at least 30% by weight of monomer fatty acid.
US08877312B2 Flying splices tape
A flying splices tape comprising a tape body which is used in bonding two laminate sheets and further comprises a first viscose layer, a carrier layer, a split layer based on starch, and a second viscose layer sequentially stacked. As such, the present invention of a flying splices tape which depends on water-soluble viscose layers as environment-friendly media features simplified structure and truly stable effect, facilitating manufacture conforming to economic efficiency, making sure of quality, and promoting market competitiveness.
US08877311B1 Masking system
A masking barrier, and methods of using the masking barrier are described. A releasable barrier for masking walls is disclosed. More particularly, the systems and method in one aspect include a barrier sheet including a boundary or edge adapted with an assembly including an adhesive. In another aspect, the invention relates to the use of an assembly including a pressure-sensitive adhesive area. In another aspect, a release sheet is removably affixed to the pressure-sensitive adhesive area.
US08877309B1 Self-repairing inflatable articles
A self-repairing inflatable article including an inflatable component that includes an interior surface and an exterior surface, a sealed flexible package adjacent to the inflatable component, and a sealant composition disposed in the sealed flexible package. The sealed flexible package is configured to release the sealant composition upon puncture, tearing or other breach of the inflatable component.
US08877307B2 Elastic drawstring for trash bags
The present invention is directed toward an improved elastic drawstring for use with a trash bag. The elastic drawstring is comprised primarily of a two-component polyethylene blend. The first polyethylene component is a linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) having a density of 0.915 g/cc or less, with a preferred range of between 0.900 g/cc and 0.915 g/cc. In certain preferred embodiments, the density of the first polyethylene component is approximately 0.906 g/cc. The second polyethylene component is a low-density polyethylene (LDPE) having a density of between 0.915 g/cc and 0.929 g/cc. In a preferred embodiment, the second polyethylene component has a density of approximately 0.918 g/cc.
US08877306B2 Compatibalized blends of polyphenylene sulfide and thermoplastic vulcanizate
This invention relates to a pipe for fluid transport that is comprised of a hollow cylinder having an outer wall and an aperture extending longitudinally through the cylinder, wherein the outer wall is comprised of (a) from about 60 weight percent to about 95 weight percent of a polyarylene sulfide resin, (b) from about 5 weight percent to about 40 weight percent of a thermoplastic vulcanizate, and (c) from about 3 weight percent to about 15 weight percent of a compatibilizer. The present invention also relates to an impact resistant polyarylene sulfide composition which is comprised of (a) from about 60 weight percent to about 95 weight percent of a polyarylene sulfide resin, (b) from about 5 weight percent to about 40 weight percent of a thermoplastic vulcanizate, and (c) from about 3 weight percent to about 15 weight percent of a compatibilizer.
US08877305B2 Low application temperature hot melt adhesive
High temperature performance hot melt adhesives are formulated for application at low temperature, i.e., below 300° F. Hot melt adhesive formed with metallocene polymer together with a maleated polyethylene wax show an excellent balance of high and low temperature performance and are particularly useful as packaging case and carton adhesive.
US08877304B2 Optical film
It is an object of the present invention to provide an optical film which has reverse chromatic dispersibility that its retardation becomes smaller as the wavelength becomes shorter and a low photoelastic constant.The optical film is made of a polycarbonate copolymer containing a unit (A) represented by the following formula: wherein R1 and R2 are each independently a hydrogen atom, hydrocarbon group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms or the like, R3 and R4 are each independently a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms or the like, “m” and “n” are each independently an integer of 0 to 4, and “p” and “q” are each independently an integer of 0 or more, and a unit (B) represented by the following formula: wherein R5 to R8 are each independently a hydrogen atom or alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, the (A/B) molar ratio of the unit (A) to the unit (B) is 10/90 to 90/10 and which satisfies the following expression (1): R(450)
US08877303B2 Liquid crystal display device and alignment film material thereof
To form an optical alignment film having large anchoring strength and suppress an AC afterimage of a liquid crystal display device, in a liquid crystal display device of an IPS mode. In an alignment film material subjected to optical alignment processing, polyimide which becomes a rigid high molecule and polyimide which becomes a flexible high molecule are mixed and used. The material of the present invention can easily rotate oligomer after irradiating polarized ultraviolet rays and improve a UV-absorbed two-color ratio of an alignment film. Accordingly, an anchoring strength for liquid crystals by the alignment film is large to suppress an AC afterimage.
US08877299B2 Method for enhancing a substrate using gas cluster ion beam processing
A method of enhancing a material layer on a substrate is described. The method comprises establishing a gas cluster ion beam (GCIB), and treating a host region of the substrate by exposing the host region of the substrate to the GCIB. The treatment with the GCIB may selectively remove an undesirable specie and/or introduce a desirable specie to the host region.
US08877291B2 Method of manufacturing thin film which suppresses unnecessary scattering and deposition of a source material
The present invention provides a thin film manufacturing method which realizes stable, highly-efficient film formation using a nozzle-type evaporation source while avoiding unnecessary scattering and deposition of a film formation material before the start of the film formation. Used is a film forming apparatus including: an evaporation chamber 16; a film forming chamber 17 in which a substrate 21 is provided; an evaporation source 19 holding a film formation material 15 and including an opening surface 14; a moving mechanism 35 configured to cause the evaporation source 19 to move; and a conductance variable structure 34. The film forming chamber 17 and the evaporation chamber 16 are evacuated. In a state where the differential pressure between these chambers can be secured by the conductance variable structure 34, the nonreactive gas is introduced to the evaporation chamber 16 to adjust the pressure in the evaporation chamber 16 to predetermined pressure or more. Thus, the evaporation of the film formation material is suppressed. In the same state as above, the nonreactive gas is introduced to the film forming chamber 17 to adjust the pressure in the film forming chamber 17 to the predetermined pressure or more. The conductance variable structure 34 is activated to cancel the above state. Then, the evaporation source 19 is moved by the moving mechanism 35, so that the opening surface 14 is located close to the substrate 21. The pressure in each chamber is decreased to less than the predetermined pressure. Thus, the suppression of the evaporation of the film formation material is canceled, and the film formation is started.
US08877287B2 Method for manufacturing anti-reflective coating film
The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing an anti-reflective coating film. The method for manufacturing an anti-reflective coating film is used to form an anti-reflective coating film exhibiting more improved interface adhesion and scratch resistance and excellent anti-reflective effect by a simple process.
US08877285B2 Process for repairing a cylinder running surface by means of plasma spraying processes
A method of repairing an inner surface of a cylinder liner housed in an engine block. Material is removed from the inner surface to produce a reduced-thickness region, the reduced-thickness region extending axially relative to the cylinder and stopping short of an end of the liner to leave a region of original diameter between the reduced thickness region and the end of the liner. The surface the reduced-thickness region is then roughened, for example by hammer brushing. A plasma coating is applied to the reduced-thickness region and to at least a portion of the region of original diameter. The coating is then finish-machined to produce a uniform internal diameter equal to an original internal diameter of the region of original diameter prior to the application of the coating.
US08877283B2 Method for preparing porous hydroxyapatite coatings by suspension plasma spraying
The present invention relates to a preparation method for porous hydroxyapatite coatings. In particular, it is a method of using suspension plasma spraying to prepare porous hydroxyapatite coatings, which belongs to the technical field of biomedical material preparations. The present invention added a pore-forming agent into the hydroxyapatite suspension with a solid content of 16%-45%. After full stirring, the feedstock materials for plasma spraying were transferred into the injection system, and injected into the high temperature area of the central plasma flame. Then, the feedstock materials made the heat exchange with the high plasma flame of plasma spraying gun. Then the sprayed raw materials were subjected to breakup and refinement of the droplets, solvent evaporation, the decomposition and gasification of the pore-forming agent and melting of feedstock materials. Finally, the porous hydroxyapatite coatings are directly deposited onto the substrate surfaces of the biomedical materials.
US08877276B2 Beverage making method having liquid delivery tank with expansion chamber
A beverage forming method and system employing the introduction of air into the heater tank and/or an expansion chamber after liquid delivery is complete. An expansion chamber may be provided at the top of the heater tank and provide a tortuous flow path from an air inlet to the tank outlet.
US08877274B2 Modified and controlled atmosphere system and method
The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for creating and maintaining modified and controlled atmospheres (MA/CA) in a rigid sealable container having at least one refrigeration unit with an integrated oxygen reduction structure. The refrigeration unit provides the necessary ambient atmosphere movement for the oxygen reduction structure, such as a hydrogen fuel cell. The systems and methods are useful in the, storage, transport, distribution, processing and packaging of fresh perishables with a focus on altering the natural gaseous environment around the perishables such that fresh shelf-life is extended. The systems may operate in a power generation/power production mode, such that the fuel cells maintain the MA/CA environment while providing both primary and back-up power.
US08877268B2 Confectionery product
The invention relates to a confectionery product comprising a plurality of beads, each bead comprising an aqueous core, a hydrophobic first coating layer surrounding the aqueous core, and a hydrophilic second coating layer surrounding the first coating layer; to a confectionery product comprising these beads. The invention also relates to a method of production thereof.
US08877265B2 Method of producing aloe vera extract
The present invention provides: an Aloe vera extract that can be safely ingested, can be used as a material of food for preventing lifestyle diseases, contains an extremely low level of an anthraquinone (anthraquinone-based compound), and can be added to foods; and a method of producing the Aloe vera extract. A supercritical fluid extraction method can produce an Aloe vera extract containing a mixture that consists of a cyclolanostane compound and a lophenol compound in an amount of 1.0% by mass or more and having the following properties (1) and/or (2): (1) the mass mixing ratio of the cyclolanostane compound and lophenol compound is as follows: cyclolanostane compound:lophenol compound=6.3:2.7 to 5.1:4.9; and/or (2) the content of an anthraquinone-based compound is 0.001% by mass or less.
US08877254B2 In situ generation of peroxycarboxylic acids at alkaline pH, and methods of use thereof
The present disclosure is related to percarboxylic acid compositions formed in situ in non-equilibrium reactions. The peroxycarboxylic acid compositions are formed using ester based starting materials. Methods for using the percarboxylic acid compositions are also disclosed.
US08877253B2 Cellular extracts
The invention describes methods and agents for improving cosmetic appearance, for promoting, improving or restoring health of cells and tissues, preferably skin, and more preferably, for restoring aged or damaged skin to a healthy appearance. The agents include compositions of cells, eggs, cell extracts, egg extracts, and extract components such as purified nucleic acids, polypeptides, lipids, carbohydrates or other natural products.
US08877252B2 Polymer-based sustained release device
This invention relates to compositions for the sustained release of biologically active polypeptides, and methods of forming and using said compositions, for the sustained release of biologically active polypeptides. The sustained release compositions of this invention comprise a biocompatible polymer having dispersed therein, a biologically active polypeptide and a sugar.
US08877239B2 Lipid supplements for maintaining health and treatment of acute and chronic disorders
Nutritional supplement formulations suitable for specific enhancement of cell and mitochondrial function comprise enriched formulations of phospholipids and chemical precursors containing specifically identified concentrations of phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidic acid and phosphatidylcholine, and mitochondrial and cell membrane phospholipid molecules as well as other desirable constituents. Methods of enriching extracted sources of cell and mitochondrial membrane molecules and precursors from microbes, plants and other sources are also set forth. The formulae can be combined with nutritional, prebiotic, and probiotic (microbial) factors that increase bioavailability through the digestive tract and increase absorption at the cellular and subcellular levels. These lipid combinations can be used to treat mitochondrial disorders associated with medical pathologies, chronic illnesses and syndromes, or to maintain lipid balance for normal mitochondrial function, and can be administered in many different forms. The various combinations specifically enriched in the correct phospholipid and correct fatty acid residues can be used to treat organ, tissue, cell or system.
US08877238B2 Film-coated tablet or granules containing as active ingredient a pyridylpyrimidine compound or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of this compound
Film-coated tablet, consisting of a tablet core with a film coating, or granules containing as active ingredient a pyridylpyrimidine compound or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of this compound, preferably imatinib or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of imatinib, preferably imatinib monomethanesulfonate, wherein (i) the tablet cores and the granules have been produced by pressing of the starting materials and, prior to pressing of the starting materials, at least one of them has been dry-granulated, preferably compacted; (ii) the tablet cores and granule cores contain the active ingredient in a proportion of 25% by weight to 80% by weight, based on the total weight of the tablet cores or granule cores, together with (iii) at least one filler-binder, and optionally contain other additives; and (iv) the mean particle size distribution of at least 80% of the active ingredient is in the range from 0.01 mm to 1.0 mm.
US08877234B2 Preservatives
The invention relates to clear, liquid preservatives, which contain a) one or several 1-hydroxy-4-methyl-6-alkyl-2(1H)-pyridones and/or one or several salts thereof, wherein alkyl represents a linear, branched or cyclic alkyl group having 1-12 carbon atoms, and b) one or several alcohols containing one or several aromatic groups.
US08877230B2 Controlled release delivery system for nasal applications
This invention relates to a pernasally administrable preparation for the controlled release of sexual hormones to the systemic circulation, in particular to a formulation which enables its active ingredient to be absorbed in a sustained manner providing a better bioavailability at very low doses and longer duration of action.
US08877227B2 Hydrogel nanocomposites for intraocular lens applicatons
The present invention relates to reversible hydrogel systems. Particularly, the hydrogel of the present invention is made up of copolymers that can be a hydrogel when in an oxidized state and can be a solution when in a reduced state. A solution of the copolymer can be oxidized to form a hydrogel; and the hydrogel can be reduced to form a solution of the copolymer. Reversible nanogels can also be formed from a dilute solution of the copolymers. The hydrogel is formed with nanoparticles embedded therein to form a nanocomposite whose refractive index and modulus can be controlled by varying the amounts of nanoparticles and the polymer concentration of the hydrogel, respectively.
US08877226B2 Dexamethasone formulations in a biodegradable material
Effective treatments of acute pain for extended periods of time are provided. Through the administration of an effective amount of dexamethasone at or near a target site, one can relieve pain cause by diverse sources, including but not limited to spinal disc herniation (i.e. sciatica), spondilothesis, stenosis, discongenic back pain and joint pain as well as pain that is incidental to surgery. When appropriate formulations are provided within biodegradable polymers, this relief can be continued for at least twenty-five days. In some embodiments, the relief can be for at least fifty days, at least one hundred days, at least one hundred and thirty-five days or at least one hundred and eighty days.
US08877225B2 Controlled release copolymer formulation with improved release kinetics
The present invention provides a constant release copolymer composition adapted for use in a controlled release formulation for a bioactive agent, such as a formulation adapted for implantation within a patient's body tissues as a depot to release the agent over a period of time, wherein the copolymer provides a substantially constant rate of release of the bioactive agent over the time period for which the depot persists in the body tissues. The copolymer includes a PLG copolymer and a PLG oligomer of about 5-10 kDa average molecular weight, which can lack free carboxylic acid groups. When the PLG copolymer is a low burst copolymer, the constant release copolymer composition is a low burst, constant release copolymer composition adapted for implantation in the body tissues of a mammal, wherein a substantially constant rate of release of the bioactive agent is achieved.
US08877224B2 Compositions for preventing cardiac arrhythmia
Disclosed herein are compositions and methods for treating or preventing a cardiac arrhythmia in a subject.
US08877220B2 Self-expandable biopolymer-mineral composite
A compressed implant composite for repairing mineralized tissue. The compressed implant composite includes a matrix formed of biopolymeric fibers and a plurality of calcium- and/or silicate-based mineral particles dispersed in the matrix. The matrix constitutes 4 to 80% by weight and the mineral particles constitute 20 to 96% by weight of the composite. The composite is free of soluble collagen and is expandable to a volume 2 to 100 times of its compressed volume (e.g., upon absorption of water). Also disclosed are methods of preparing the above-described composite.
US08877219B2 Pesticidal compositions containing rosemary oil and wintergreen oil
Pesticidal compositions containing rosemary oil and/or wintergreen oil and methods for using same are disclosed.
US08877217B2 Cationic polymer nanoparticles encapsulating an active ingredients, and the cosmetic composition containing the same
Disclosed herein are cationic polymer nanocapsules encapsulating an oil-soluble active ingredient, and a cosmetic composition containing the same. The cationic polymer nanocapsules have a molecular weight of 5,000-100,000, a surface potential of 5-100 mV and a particle size of 50-500 nm. Also, disclosed is a cosmetic composition containing said cationic polymer nanocapsules.
US08877212B2 Use of an IL12 receptor-beta 1 splice variant to diagnose active tuberculosis
The present invention describes compositions for both diagnostic and therapeutic applications. In one embodiment, the present invention contemplates a method of identifying an active M. tuberculosis infection. In another embodiment, the present invention contemplates a method of monitoring a M. tuberculosis infection. In yet another embodiment, the present invention contemplates a method of monitoring a patient's response to treatment for an active M. tuberculosis infection. In a further embodiment, the present invention contemplates a method of monitoring a patient's response to treatment for an active M. tuberculosis infection.
US08877210B2 Influenza hemagglutinin and neuraminidase variants
Polypeptides, polynucleotides, methods, compositions, and vaccines comprising influenza hemagglutinin and neuraminidase variants are provided.
US08877195B2 Monoclonal antibodies to fibrin
The present invention provides an isolated antibody that binds a fibrin or fibrinogen γC domain. In various aspects, the antibody inhibits microglial adhesion to the fibrin or fibrinogen γC domain, inhibits Mac-1 binding to the fibrin or fibrinogen γC domain, and/or suppresses clinical symptoms of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis (EAE). Various methods of using the antibodies, pharmaceutical compositions, kits, vectors, cells comprising the vectors, and antibody generating methods are provided.
US08877188B2 Detection and treatment of non-dermal fibrosis
The invention relates to methods for the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of non-dermal fibrosis, including lung (or pulmonary) fibrosis.
US08877178B2 Methods of use of probiotic bifidobacteria for companion animals
According to the present invention there are provided methods of use in companion animals of probiotic bacteria of the genus Bifidobacteria.
US08877177B2 Chemokine containing apheresis column and methods of use
An apheresis column loaded with a solid support comprises one or more chemokines, in particular biotinylated chemokines, immobilized directly or indirectly on the support, in particular on a support carrying streptavidin. Also disclosed are uses of the column and the support and a method of depleting cells, in particular leukocytes, from the peripheral blood of a person suffering from an inflammatory condition such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
US08877175B2 Long lasting drug formulations
The present invention is directed to long-lasting erythropoietin therapeutic formulations and their methods of use wherein the formulation comprises a genetically modified micro-organ that comprises a vector which comprises a nucleic acid sequence operably linked to one or more regulatory sequences, wherein the nucleic acid sequence encodes erythropoietin.
US08877174B2 Pheromone composition
The invention relates to a four component pheromone composition that attracts male light brown apple moths and can be used to control moth populations. The pheromone composition comprises (E)-11-tetradecenyl acetate, (E,E)-9,11-tetradecadienyl acetate, (E)-11-tetradecen-1-ol and (E)-11-hexadecenyl acetate.
US08877173B2 Weather resistant granular slug, snail and insect bait
The present disclosure is directed to a physical and chemical formulation designed to be attractive to, and eaten by, terrestrial mollusks, specifically slugs and snails. Optionally, the formulation is also attractive to and toxic to insects. Upon being eaten and after a set delay, the invention is designed to kill such pests and in so doing remove them from the premises or environment treated.
US08877167B2 Cosmetic composition comprising an aqueous dispersion of polysiloxane/polyurea and a silane, cosmetic treatment process and kit therefor
The present invention relates to a cosmetic composition comprising an aqueous dispersion of polysiloxane/polyurea copolymer and a silane, and to a cosmetic treatment process using said composition.
US08877163B2 Cycloalkyl triamine pentacarboxylate as ligands for paramagnetic metal complexes
A cycloalkyl triamine pentacarboxylate compound coordinating to a metal ion to form a high stability metal complex in serum is provided. The metal complex of the present invention can be used as a contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
US08877151B1 NOx reduction using a Zn- and/or Ga-containing catalyst
Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and processes for selective catalytic reduction of NOx using hydrogen in conjunction with a catalyst comprising a non-noble metal. In one embodiment, a NOx-containing gas mixture is contacted with a catalyst comprising at least one of zinc and gallium dispersed on a zeolite support to form nitrogen and water.
US08877149B2 Combustion flue gas NOx treatment
Combustion flue gas containing NOX and SOX is treated to remove NOX in a multistep system in which NOX is reduced in the flue gas stream via selective catalytic reduction or selective non-catalytic reduction with ammonia or an ammonia-forming compound, followed treatment with hydrogen peroxide to remove residual ammonia and, optionally, treatment with an alkali reagent to reduce residual NOX in the flue gas stream. The NOX-depleted flue gas stream may also be subjected to a desulfurization treatment for removal of SOX.
US08877146B2 Cassette for handling and holding tissue samples during processing, embedding and microtome procedures, and methods therefor
A cassette for holding a tissue sample includes a body having a bottom wall and a plurality of side walls extending upwardly with respect to the bottom wall to define an interior space for receiving the tissue sample. A lid is configured to be received in the interior space, and the cassette is sectionable in a microtome. Sensing elements are associated with the body or lid and configured to allow an automated sensing system to determine at least one characteristic of the cassette. A flange extends along upper portions of at least two of the side walls and includes a plurality of holes. Other features are included to more effectively and efficiently manufacture and use the cassette.
US08877142B2 Assay device and method
There is provided an assay device comprising a lid and a base, said base comprising, a sample addition zone, a reaction zone and an absorbing zone, said components being in fluid connection and being part of a fluid passage leading from the sample addition zone to the absorbing zone, wherein: (a) a sample addition well is integrated in the lid, (b) the absorbing zone consists of an area on an non-porous substrate, having substantially perpendicular projections, said projections defining a volume, which together with the volume of the fluid passage defines the sample volume subjected to the assay, and (c) at least one filter is between the sample addition well and the sample addition zone. There is further provided methods for handling samples.
US08877137B2 Hydrogen generator
A hydrogen generator including an initiator assembly having one or more contact members within a compressible member, and a removable fuel unit adjacent a surface of the compressible member. The fuel unit contains a hydrogen containing material that can release hydrogen gas when heated and an exothermic mixture that can react exothermically upon initiation by the initiator assembly. When no fuel unit is in the hydrogen generator, the compressible member is uncompressed and the contact members are at or below its surface, and when a fuel unit is disposed in the hydrogen generator, the compressible member is compressed so the contact members extend beyond the surface to make thermal contact with the fuel unit. Energy from the initiator assembly is conducted by the contact members to corresponding quantities of the exothermic mixture to initiate an exothermic reaction, providing heat for the release of hydrogen gas from the hydrogen containing material.
US08877136B1 Method of producing synthesis gas from coal
A method and apparatus for generating synthesis gas from coal is provided. A conditioned combustible coal element is packed in a metal case. Oxygen mixed with steam and salt water is applied to the coal element. An electrical direct current direct current is applied to the coal element and oxygen/steam/salt water mixture. An arc is generated at the coal element and synthesis gas is generated.
US08877134B2 Exhaust gas treating system
The present invention, aiming at providing an exhaust gas treating system capable of increasing the exhaust gas treating volume, through increase of the diameter of the reaction tube, stabilizing the state of generation of plasma without requiring any water membrane, and improving the harmful matters removing performance by extending the plasma length, comprises a reaction tube 1 for introducing exhaust gas G, an upper electrode 2 disposed in the air on the top side of the reaction tube 1, a lower electrode 3 disposed on the bottom side of the reaction tube 1, and a spray nozzle 4 for spraying an electrolytic solution D between the upper electrode 2 and the lower electrode 3, so as to form a path of electric current between the electrodes 2, 3 and generate plasma P in the reaction tube 1, by spraying an electrolytic solution D between the upper electrode 2 and the lower electrode 3.
US08877130B2 Device for measuring biological sample
A partition wall is provided between a display section and a sensor mount inside a main case. A control board housing chamber is disposed on the display unit side of the partition wall, and a measurement board housing chamber is disposed on the sensor mount side of the partition wall. A control board is housed in the control board housing chamber, and a measurement board and a temperature sensor are housed in the measurement board housing chamber.
US08877126B2 Process stream decontamination systems and methods
A decontamination system for decontaminating at least one contaminant in a process stream. Decontaminant liquid is dispersed into the process stream using atomization. A controller detects contaminant levels in the process stream and adjusts the flow of decontaminant fluid into the process stream in response.
US08877122B2 Ni-based single crystal superalloy and turbine blade incorporating the same
A Ni-based single crystal superalloy which has the following composition: Co: 0.0 wt % or more to 15.0 wt % or less, Cr: 4.1 to 8.0 wt %, Mo: 2.1 to 4.5 wt %, W: 0.0 to 3.9 wt %, Ta: 4.0 to 10.0 wt %, Al: 4.5 to 6.5 wt %, Ti: 0.0 to 1.0 wt %, Hf: 0.00 to 0.5 wt %, Nb: 0.0 to 3.0 wt %, Re: 8.1 to 9.9 wt % and Ru: 0.5 to 6.5 wt % with the remainder including Ni and unavoidable impurities. As a result, the Ni-based single crystal superalloy which includes more than 8 wt % of Re in the composition ratio and has excellent specific creep strength and the turbine blade incorporating the Ni-based single crystal superalloy may be made.
US08877115B2 Apparatus and method for making an object
An apparatus (100) for making an object (122) is disclosed. The apparatus has a flexible element (101) having an upwardly facing surface for disposing thereon a material (104) used to make the object, and a member (110) connected to an actuator (112) that can move the member (110). A controller is in communication the actuator (112). A method which may be executed using the apparatus (100) is also disclosed.
US08877114B2 Method for removing a SMP apparatus from a cured composite part
A method and apparatus for removing a SMP apparatus from within a cured composite part. The method may comprise the steps of triggering the SMP apparatus from a rigid state to a malleable state, inducing a pressure differential that drives the SMP apparatus, in the malleable state, away from the cured composite part and toward an inner mandrel tool, and removing the inner mandrel tool with the SMP apparatus resting thereon out of the cured composite part. The inner mandrel tool may comprise an outer surface having varying contours such that a surface area of the outer surface is great enough to prevent the SMP apparatus from folding over onto itself or creasing when driven toward the inner mandrel tool. A maximum straight line distance between points on the outer surface may be small enough to allow the inner mandrel tool clearance for removal from the cured composite part.
US08877113B2 Method of molding clip mount and trim board
A method of molding a clip mount on a baseboard includes: forming a clip mount forming space with a die set including at least first slide die and second slide die; injecting molten resin into the space; forming a first wall; forming a connecting wall so as to extend from a distal end of the first wall such that a distance between the connecting wall and a surface of the baseboard increases as a distance from the first wall increases; forming a second wall; forming a mount wall so as to extend from an end of the second wall such that a distance between the mount wall and the connecting wall increases as a distance from the second wall increases; sliding the first slide die for removal; and sliding the second slide die in a different direction from a direction in which the first slide die is slid for removal.
US08877108B2 System and method for making a golf ball having a patterned surface
A system and method for making a golf ball having a patterned surface is disclosed. The pattern may be made by a method including machining a pattern of feed marks on the surface of a golf ball mold and using the golf ball mold to mold a golf ball cover layer. The pattern may be configured to create capillary action to substantially counteract gravity and/or other forces acting on a substantially liquid coating material applied to the cover layer of the golf ball.
US08877107B2 Method for increasing the molecular weight of a polyester granulate by using its residual heat
The present invention relates to increasing the molecular weight during a thermal treatment of polyester in combination with a latent heat granulation. With the newly-developed method, an SSP (Solid State Postcondensation) can be directly combined with an underwater granulation. The method differs from a conventional solid state postcondensation by an increase in the molecular weight being possible without additional heat input and hence only by using the residual heat and the crystallization heat present. A characterizing element is improved water separation and dehumidification during the granulation. Only in this way is an increase in viscosity possible even with a small granulate of an average particle weight less than 20 mg.
US08877102B2 Mineral wool, insulating product and production method
The invention relates to thermally-stable mineral wool which can dissolve in a physiological medium, comprising fibres containing the following constituents, expressed in percentage by weight, namely: 35-60 % SiO2, preferably 39-55 %; 12-27% Al2O3, preferably 16-25%; 0-35% CaO, preferably 3-25%; 0-30% MgO, preferably 0-15%; 0-17% Na2O, preferably 6-12%; 0-17% K2O, preferably 3-12%; 10-17% R2O (Na2O+K2O), preferably 12-17%; 0-5% P2O5, preferably 0-2%; 0-20% Fe2O3; 0-8% B2O3, preferably 0-4%; and 0-3% TiO2, and at least one phosphorous compound that can react with said fibres at a temperature of less than 1000° C. in order to form a coating on the surface thereof. The invention is characterised in that the phosphorous content of said compound, as expressed in phosphorus atom weight, varies between 0.0005%, in particular more than 0.01%, and 1%, in particular less than 0.5%, of the total weight of the fibres. The invention is also characterised in that a phosphorus compound is a molecule in which the phosphorus atom(s) are bound to at least one carbon atom either directly or by means of an oxygen atom.
US08877099B2 Ti3SiC2 based material, electrode, spark plug and manufacturing method thereof
The present invention provides a Ti3SiC2 based material that exhibits excellent arc resistance, an electrode, a spark plug, and methods of manufacturing the same. A Ti3SiC2 based material according to the present invention includes Ti3SiC2 as a main phase, the Ti3SiC2 based material having a TiC content of 0.5 mass % or less and an open porosity of 0.5% or less. It may be preferable that 0 to 30 mol % of Si in the main phase Ti3SiC2 be substituted with Al. A spark plug according to the present invention includes an electrode formed using the Ti3SiC2 based material.
US08877095B2 Process for production of fluorescent substance
The embodiment provides a process for production of an oxynitride fluorescent substance. In the process, a compound represented by the formula: (Sr,Eu)2Si5N8, silicon nitride and aluminum nitride are mixed and then fired in a nitrogen atmosphere under high pressure.
US08877094B2 Yellow-green to yellow-emitting phosphors based on halogenated-aluminates
Disclosed herein are yellow-green and yellow-emitting aluminate based phosphors for use in white LEDs, general lighting, and LED and backlighting displays. In one embodiment of the present invention, the cerium-activated, yellow-green to yellow-emitting aluminate phosphor comprises the rare earth lutetium, at least one alkaline earth metal, aluminum, oxygen, at least one halogen, and at least one rare earth element other than lutetium, wherein the phosphor is configured to absorb excitation radiation having a wavelength ranging from about 380 nm to about 480 nm, and to emit light having a peak emission wavelength ranging from about 550 nm to about 600 nm.
US08877093B2 Ceramic scintillator body and scintillation device
A polycrystalline ceramic scintillator body includes a ceramic scintillating material comprising an oxide of gadolinium (Gd) and a second rare earth element (Re). The ceramic scintillating material has a composition, expressed in terms of molar percentage of oxide constituents, that includes greater than fifty-five percent (55%) Gd2O3 and a minority percentage Of Re2O3. The ceramic scintillating material includes an activator.
US08877092B2 Liquid-crystalline medium
The invention relates to a liquid-crystalline medium which comprises at least one compound of the formula I, in which R1, R1*, ring A have the meanings indicated in claim 1, and to the use thereof for an active-matrix display, in particular based on the VA, PSA, PS-VA, PALC, FFS or IPS effect.
US08877076B2 Substrate treatment apparatus and substrate treatment method
A substrate treatment apparatus is used for treating a major surface of a substrate with a chemical liquid. The substrate treatment apparatus includes: a substrate holding unit which holds the substrate; a chemical liquid supplying unit having a chemical liquid nozzle which supplies the chemical liquid onto the major surface of the substrate held by the substrate holding unit; a heater having an infrared lamp to be located in opposed relation to the major surface of the substrate held by the substrate holding unit to heat the chemical liquid supplied onto the major surface of the substrate by irradiation with infrared radiation emitted from the infrared lamp, the heater having a smaller diameter than the substrate; and a heater moving unit which moves the heater along the major surface of the substrate held by the substrate holding unit.
US08877075B2 Apparatuses and methods for gas mixed liquid polishing, etching, and cleaning
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a method of polishing a device includes providing a layer having a non-uniform top surface. The non-uniform top surface includes a plurality of protrusions. The method further includes removing the plurality of protrusions by exposing the layer to a fluid that has gas bubbles and a liquid.
US08877072B2 Three-dimensional fractal graduated-branching hierarchical structures and fabrication method thereof
A method to fabricate a hierarchical graduated-branched structure that grows in a three-dimensional pattern down to fractal-branching, nano-size level is detailed. The fractal patterning is accomplished on a three-dimensional (i.e., non-planar) surface, by exposing the surface to a properly focused particle beam, which causes the spontaneous growth of graduated branches all over the surface. The structure can be fabricated with a single material and the fractal-patterning is done in a one step process. No addition of material is required for the formation of each branch. The fractal graduated branching structure can then be molded in order to produce replicas.
US08877069B2 Tethered catalysts for the hydration of carbon dioxide
A system is provided that substantially increases the efficiency of CO2 capture and removal by positioning a catalyst within an optimal distance from the air-liquid interface. The catalyst is positioned within the layer determined to be the highest concentration of carbon dioxide. A hydrophobic tether is attached to the catalyst and the hydrophobic tether modulates the position of the catalyst within the liquid layer containing the highest concentration of carbon dioxide.
US08877065B2 Skim tank configurations and methods
A skim tank includes a flow-control structure that forces a solid-depleted phase of a mixed-phase feed into a toroidal motion within the container to thereby provide an up-flow movement within the structure. Most preferably, at least a portion of the solid-depleted phase is recirculated to further increase up-flow movement within the structure.
US08877064B2 System and method for separating solids from fluids
A system for separating solids from fluid including a solid-laden fluid including a base fluid, a first separator configured to receive the solid-laden fluid and separate the fluid into a solids portion and an effluent, and a membrane separator configured to receive the effluent and separate the effluent into a permeate and a concentrate is disclosed. A method for separating solids from fluid including obtaining a solid-laden fluid, wherein the solid-laden fluid comprises a base fluid, feeding the solid-laden fluid through a centrifuge, removing at least a portion of high gravity solids from the solid-laden fluids, flowing the solid-laden fluid through a membrane separator, removing at least a portion of low gravity solids from the solid-laden fluid, and collecting a permeate from the membrane separator is also disclosed.
US08877060B2 Methods for removing pathogens from a platelet preparation
The present application relates to a method for removing pathogens from a transfusion grade platelet composition. The method comprises the steps of passing a platelet preparation through a first tangential flow filtration (TFF) device having a TFF filter, and collecting a retentate from the TFF device, wherein the retentate comprises filtered platelets to be used for transfusion. The platelet preparation comprises a platelet activation inhibitor and an anti-coagulant. During the TFF process, a diafiltration solution is added to the retentate to maintain the volume of the platelets.
US08877056B2 Methods and means for economically assuring improved potable water quality management for aircraft and other applications
A potable water distribution system for use in aircraft, as well as potable water systems of boats, recreational vehicles/caravans, residential homes, dental offices, laboratories, vending machines, and the like, provides for sanitizing of the system without opening filter and/or purification units and removing filtering and/or purifying cartridges from the filter and/or purification units during the sanitizing process.
US08877050B2 Process for the treatment of liquid effluents laden with hydrocarbons
The present invention relates to a process for the treatment of liquid effluents laden with hydrocarbons, which comprises: feeding the effluents into a treatment tank; supplying the treatment tank with a reversible sorbent having a defined particle size; mixing the effluents with the reversible sorbent in the treatment tank in order to load said reversible sorbent with the hydrocarbons in the effluents; removing the hydrocarbon-laden reversible sorbent from the top of the treatment tank; extracting the treated effluents from the bottom of the treatment tank; and separating the hydrocarbons from the laden reversible sorbent from the treatment tank.
US08877045B1 Water treatment apparatus
Embodiments of a water treatment unit are disclosed. An embodiment of a water treatment unit according to the present disclosure comprises a generally vertical riser having a lower end and an upper end, at least one inlet adjacent the lower end, and at least one outlet adjacent the upper end, a substantially spherical housing surrounding the riser, the housing comprising at least one opening in a lower portion of the housing, the housing enclosing a chamber, a motor coupled to the housing, a shaft coupled to the motor, the shaft extending downward from the motor within the riser, the shaft being in general axial alignment with the riser, at least one propeller coupled to the shaft, and a biomedia material within the chamber.
US08877043B2 Reaction system and products therefrom
A reaction system and method for removing heteroatoms from oxidized-heteroatom-containing hydrocarbon streams and products derived therefrom are disclosed. An oxidized-heteroatom-containing hydrocarbon feed is reacted in a reaction system thereby forming non-ionic hydrocarbon products. The products derived therefrom are useful as transportation fuels, lubricants, refinery intermediates, or refinery feeds.
US08877042B2 Ancillary cracking of heavy oils in conjunction with FCC unit operations
The production of light hydrocarbons consisting of ethylene, propylene, butylenes, and of gasoline is enhanced by introducing a heavy oil feedstream derived from an external source into an ancillary downflow reactor that utilizes the same catalyst composition as an adjacent FCC unit for cracking the heavy oil and withdrawing the desired lighter hydrocarbon reaction product stream from the downflow reactor and regenerating the catalyst in the same regeneration vessel that is used to regenerate the spent catalyst from the FCC unit. The efficiency of the recovery of the desired lighter olefinic hydrocarbons is maximized by limiting the feedstream to the downflow reactor to heavy oils that can be processed under relatively harsher conditions, while minimizing production of undesired by-products.
US08877035B2 Gated amperometry methods
A sensor system, device, and methods for determining the concentration of an analyte in a sample is described. Gated amperometric pulse sequences including multiple duty cycles of sequential excitations and relaxations may provide a shorter analysis time and/or improve the accuracy and/or precision of the analysis. The disclosed gated amperometric pulse sequences may reduce analysis errors arising from the hematocrit effect, variance in cap-gap volumes, non-steady-state conditions, mediator background, under-fill, temperature changes in the sample, and a single set of calibration constants.
US08877033B2 Method and apparatus for assay of electrochemical properties
The presence of a select analyte in the sample is evaluated in an electrochemical system using a conduction cell-type apparatus. A potential or current is generated between the two electrodes of the cell sufficient to bring about oxidation or reduction of the analyte or of a mediator in an analyte-detection redox system, thereby forming a chemical potential gradient of the analyte or mediator between the two electrodes After the gradient is established, the applied potential or current is discontinued and an analyte-independent signal is obtained from the relaxation of the chemical potential gradient. The analyte-independent signal is used to correct the analyte-dependent signal obtained during application of the potential or current. This correction allows an improved measurement of analyte concentration because it corrects for device-specific and test specific factors such as transport (mobility) of analyte and/or mediator, effective electrode area, and electrode spacing (and as a result, sample volume), without need for separate calibration values. The analysis can be performed using disposable test strips in a hand held meter, for example for glucose testing.
US08877029B2 Electrodeposition coatings including a lanthanide series element for use over aluminum substrates
A process for applying a coating on aluminum substrates by anionic or cationic electrodeposition of an electrodeposition coating including an aqueous dispersion of one or more lanthanide series elements having a +3/+4 oxidation state and phosphated epoxy resin made by phosphating a polyepoxide with both phosphoric acid and an organophosphonic acid and/or an organophosphinic acid. The coating has a reduced tendency to form pinholes.
US08877028B2 System and methods for detection of particles
Particles of interest such as DNA, RNA may be detected in trace quantities by subjecting the particles to concentration by scodaphoresis, detecting a signal indicative of the presence of the particles in a scodaphoresis focus spot and performing phase-sensitive detection on the signal using a reference signal tied to the scodaphoresis fields. Specificity may be enhanced by using a medium having high affinity for the particles and/or markers having specific affinity for the target particles. In some embodiments a fluorescence signal is detected and subjected to phase-sensitive analysis. The signal may be detected by a camera or other imaging system.
US08877027B2 Liquid analyzer
A liquid analyzer may include a reference electrode provided with internal liquid containing a halide ion; and an ion electrode of which a measurable concentration range for a measuring target ion is lower than the concentration of the halide ion in the internal liquid of the reference electrode, The internal liquid of the ion electrode contains the measuring target ion and a halide ion; and the internal liquid of the ion electrode is liquid in which the concentration of the measuring target ion and the halide ion are regulated such that an osmotic pressure and an isothermal point of the internal liquid of the ion electrode respectively have desired values, and the isothermal point is included in the measurable concentration range, and the concentration of the halide ion is different from the concentration of the halide ion in the internal liquid S33 of the reference electrode.
US08877025B2 Combinatorial material screening method for an electrochemical cell
An electrochemical test cell, containing an anode comprising a metal as an active component; a cathode comprising a porous chemically inert tube containing an active material compatible with the metal of the anode; and an electrolyte; wherein the only metal in contact with the electrolyte is the metal of the anode, is provided. This test cell is useful in a method to evaluate various combinations of materials for suitability as a combination for preparation of a battery.
US08877024B2 Sensor control device and sensor control method
[Objective] An object is to provide a sensor control apparatus and a sensor-control-apparatus control method which can reduce variation in startup time among a plurality of times of execution of detection processing, in consideration of variation in output characteristic among a plurality of gas sensors.[Means for Solution] In a sensor control apparatus, before drive control (S55 to S80) is started, preliminary control is executed so as to supply a constant current to a second oxygen pump cell over a constant time, to thereby control to a constant level the amount of oxygen pumped from a second measurement chamber to the outside of the second measurement chamber (S40 to 50). The preliminary control is executed under control conditions of the sensor control apparatus which are determined for each gas sensor and are associated with the amount of oxygen pumped from the second measurement chamber to the outside thereof. The control conditions bring into a target range the concentration correspondence value calculated after start of the drive control which is started after the preliminary control is executed in a state in which a reference gas having a known concentration is introduced into the gas sensor.
US08877022B2 Biosensor
Embodiments of the present disclosure set forth a biosensor for detecting a target. One example sensor includes a first electrode. The first electrode includes a first electron conducting molecule and a first probe. The first probe includes a second electron conducting molecule. The first probe is configured to bind to the target of interest in solution. The first and second electron conducting molecules are different.
US08877018B2 Process for the preparation of hydroxy gallium phthalocyanine
The present teachings describe a process for converting a HOGaPc Type I polymorph to the HOGaPc Type V polymorph. The process includes obtaining a slurry comprising hydroxy gallium phthalocyanine (HOGaPc) Type I polymorph. The slurry is mixed at a resonant frequency of the slurry by applying a low frequency acoustic field for a time sufficient to convert the HOGaPc Type I polymorph to the HOGaPc Type V polymorph.
US08877017B2 Method for separating hexafluoropropylene oxide from hexafluoropropylene
The present invention provides a novel method for separating hexafluoropropylene oxide (HFPO) from hexafluoropropylene (HFP), which is capable of reducing the burden on the environment. A mixture including HFPO and HFP is subjected to an extractive distillation operation using, as a solvent, at least one of a fluorine-containing saturated compound represented by the general formula CnHaFb (wherein n, a and b are integers which satisfy: n=3 to 8, 0≦a≦2n+1, and 1≦b≦2n+2) thereby separating into a first fraction including HFPO and a second fraction including HFP and the solvent. At least one of 1-bromopropane and 2-bromopropane may be u as the solvent in place of the fluorine-containing saturated compound.
US08877016B2 Solar steam generation
Systems and methods for solar steam generation are described. The systems and methods include moving at least one frame mounted optical focusing lens to track the sun in two axes and disposing a water boiler at a focus of each optical focusing lens. Raw water is pumped through an inlet at a bottom of each boiler and solar energy is concentrated, using each optical focusing lens, on each boiler, heating the raw water in each boiler and evaporating steam from the raw water. The steam exits each boiler, via a steam outlet pipe. Remaining salts and solids in each boiler are ground by rotation of salt grinding-cleaning gears. These ground salts and solids are drained and/or pumped out of each boiler from an exit in the bottom of each boiler.
US08877015B2 Process control by blending biomass feedstocks
A process and system is disclosed for optimizing a key parameter of a biomass feedstock that enhances bio-oil production. The process and system involves optimizing the values of the key parameter in multiple biomass feedstocks by regulating their feed rates and blending those feedstocks to produce a cumulative biomass feedstock with an optimal value for the key parameter. The key parameter in the biomass feedstocks is measured and the feed rates of the multiple biomass feedstocks are adjusted in order to produce a cumulative biomass feedstock exhibiting optimal values for the desired key parameter. The key parameters can include compositional properties, such as lignin content or mineral content, and/or fluidization properties of the biomass materials, such as density, particle cohesion force, or particle size.
US08877014B2 Split-shell fractionation columns and associated processes for separating aromatic hydrocarbons
Split-shell fractionation columns and associated processes for separating aromatic hydrocarbons. A split-shell fractionation column includes a housing shell having a first height and a partition having a second height and disposed within the housing shell. The partition includes first and second vertically oriented baffles separated by a gap region, a seal plate connecting top ends of the baffles, a first input port formed to extend through the partition for the introduction of a gas into the gap region, and a first output port formed to extend outwardly from a bottom of the gap region and through the housing shell. The partition defines a first distillation zone and a second distillation zone within the housing shell.
US08877013B2 Reaction system and products therefrom
A reaction system and method for removing heteroatoms from oxidized-heteroatom-containing hydrocarbon streams and products derived therefrom are disclosed. An oxidized-heteroatom-containing hydrocarbon feed is reacted in a reaction system thereby forming non-ionic hydrocarbon products. The products derived therefrom are useful as transportation fuels, lubricants, refinery intermediates, or refinery feeds.
US08876999B2 Flexible shape low volume autoclave
Techniques and apparatus for providing a flexible shape low volume autoclave are disclosed. In one embodiment, an autoclave includes an elongated pressure vessel that is sealed on both ends and has a circumferential joint between a first portion and a second portion. The autoclave further includes the portions defining an interior configured for accepting an elongated part, the joint being configured to create an angle between the portions and further creating an opening with a seal, the opening facilitating an insertion of the part into the interior, and the seal enabling pressurization of the interior.
US08876998B2 Method for manufacturing flexible flat device
Disclosed is a method for manufacturing a flexible device comprising: forming an adhesive layer on a support substrate; adhering a flexible substrate onto the adhesive layer; forming a device layer on the flexible substrate; and separating the support substrate from the flexible substrate, wherein the adhesive layer comprises a self-assembled monolayer (SAM).
US08876994B2 Porous sheet and method for manufacturing the porous sheet
The present invention relates to a porous sheet and a method for manufacturing the porous sheet. A porous sheet including a fine-fiber web layer and a support layer and a method for manufacturing the same are provided, and it is possible to implement a porous sheet with sufficient strength and thickness to be used in peeling and laminating processes of a multilayer ceramic capacitor.
US08876992B2 Process and system for fabricating gamma TiAl turbine engine components
A process for manufacturing a turbine engine component comprises the steps of: casting ingots made of a gamma TiAl material using a double vacuum arc remelting casting technique; subjecting the cast ingots to a hot isostatic pressing to close porosity; forming at least one pancake of the gamma TiAl material by isothermally forging the hot isostatic pressed ingots; sectioning each pancake into a plurality of blanks; heat treating the blanks to produce a desired microstructure and mechanical properties; and machining the blanks into finished turbine engine components. A system for performing the process is also disclosed.
US08876991B2 Dental and medical instruments comprising titanium
Endodontic instruments for use in performing root canal therapy on a tooth are disclosed. In one form, the instruments include an elongate shank having a cutting edge extending from a distal end of the shank along an axial length of the shank. The shank comprises a titanium alloy, and the shank is prepared by heat-treating the shank at a temperature above 25° C. in an atmosphere consisting essentially of a gas unreactive with the shank. In another form, the endodontic instruments have an elongate shank having a cutting edge extending from a distal end of the shank along an axial length of the shank. The shank consists essentially of a titanium alloy selected from alpha-titanium alloys, beta-titanium alloys, and alpha-beta-titanium alloys. The instruments solve the problems encountered when cleaning and enlarging a curved root canal.
US08876989B2 Low rhenium nickel base superalloy compositions and superalloy articles
Low rhenium nickel base superalloy compositions and articles formed from the superalloy composition are provided. The nickel base superalloy composition includes in percentages by weight: about 5-8 Cr; about 6.5-9 Co; about 1.3-2.5 Mo; about 4.8-6.8 W; about 6.0-7.0 Ta; if present, up to about 0.5 Ti; about 6.0-6.4 Al; about 1-2.3 Re; if present, up to about 0.6 Hf; if present, up to 1.5 C; if present, up to about 0.015 B; the balance being nickel and incidental impurities. Exemplary compositions are characterized by an Re ratio defined as the weight % of Re relative to the total of the weight % of W and the wt % of Mo, of less than about 0.3. Exemplary articles include airfoils for gas turbine engine blades or vanes, nozzles, shrouds, and splash plates.
US08876988B2 Steel for nitriding and nitrided part
The present invention provides a steel for nitriding with a composition including, by mass %: C: 0.10% to 0.20%; Si: 0.01% to 0.7%; Mn: 0.2% to 2.0%; Cr: 0.2% to 2.5%; Al: 0.01% to less than 0.19%; V: over 0.2% to 1.0%; Mo: 0% to 0.54%; N: 0.001% to 0.01%; P limited to not more than 0.05%; S limited to not less than 0.2%; and a balance including Fe and inevitable impurities, the composition satisfying 2≦[V]/[C]≦10, where [V] is an amount of V by mass % and [C] is an amount of C by mass %, in which the steel for nitriding has a microstructure containing bainite of 50% or more in terms of an area percentage.
US08876985B2 Cleaning system for an image plate readout device
The invention relates to a cleaning system for a set of instruments associated or in contact with an image plate readout device, as well as to a readout device comprising the cleaning system. The cleaning system comprises a disinfecting element, which emits electromagnetic radiation and/or ultrasonic radiation capable of destroying disease carriers, and which is adapted to emit said radiation towards an image plate conveyor mechanism encompassed by the image plate readout device.
US08876980B2 System and associated method for preventing overfilling in a dishwasher
A method, system, and computer-program product for preventing overfilling in a dishwasher are disclosed herein. According to one embodiment, a method for preventing overfilling in a dishwasher is provided, wherein the dishwasher includes a water valve for providing water to the dishwasher and a drain pump for removing water from the dishwasher. The method comprises detecting an overfill condition in the dishwasher with at least one detection device, wherein the overfill condition corresponds to a water level in the dishwasher that is greater than a predetermined threshold. The method further includes controlling the drain pump and the water valve in response to detecting the overfill condition in order to facilitate removal of the overfill condition.
US08876979B2 Recyclable printed plastic container and method
A recyclable article having an external surface with an image printed thereon by droplets of ink is provided. The droplets of ink comprise a composition that includes a hydrophilic component. In embodiments, the hydrophilic component can facilitate the separation or loosening of the image from the external surface of the container when the image is exposed to a liquid-based solution at an elevated temperature. Methods for facilitating recycling of recyclable articles having printed images are also disclosed.
US08876974B2 Chemical vapor deposition apparatus capable of controlling discharging fluid flow path in reaction chamber
A chemical vapor deposition apparatus is equipped to control the width of a gas discharge path between a susceptor and an inner surface of a chamber without having to resort to redesign and remanufacturing of the apparatus. The chemical vapor deposition apparatus includes: a chamber; a susceptor positioned inside the chamber and on which a substrate can be loaded; a shower head injecting a processing gas toward the substrate; and a guide unit detachably installed inside the chamber to guide the processing gas such that the processing gas injected from the shower head is discharged through a chamber hole formed in the chamber.
US08876973B2 Film of n type (100) oriented single crystal diamond semiconductor doped with phosphorous atoms, and a method of producing the same
There is provided an n type (100) oriented single crystal diamond semiconductor film into which phosphorous atoms have been doped and a method of producing the same. The n type (100) oriented single crystal diamond semiconductor film, characterized in that (100) oriented diamond is epitaxially grown on a substrate under such conditions that; the diamond substrate is (100) oriented diamond, a means for chemical vapor deposition provides hydrogen, hydrocarbon and a phosphorous compound in the plasma vapor phase, the ratio of phosphorous atoms to carbon atoms in the plasma vapor phase is no less than 0.1%, and the ratio of carbon atoms to hydrogen atoms is no less than 0.05%, and the method of producing the same.
US08876972B2 Crystallization device
A crystallization device is for protein crystallization with a small amount of a sample in the liquid to liquid diffusion method. It is easy to fill the device with protein solution and precipitant solution and easy to pick up grown crystals from the device. The device comprises a channel plate made of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and the first and second cover sheets made of polyethylene terephthalate. The channel plate includes at least one elongated channel having one side which extends in the longitudinal direction of the channel, the one side being exposed at the bottom surface of the channel plate. The channel has both ends which communicate with a protein solution inlet and a precipitant solution inlet respectively. The channel also communicates midway with a gel inlet and a vent hole. When picking up grown crystals from the device, the second cover sheet is cut off with a cutter knife so that the channel is exposed.
US08876971B2 Precursors for formation of copper selenide, indium selenide, copper indium diselenide, and/or copper indium gallium diselenide films
Liquid-based precursors for formation of Copper Selenide, Indium Selenide, Copper Indium Diselenide, and/or copper Indium Galium Diselenide include copper-organoselenides, particulate copper selenide suspensions, copper selenide ethylene diamine in liquid solvent, nanoparticulate indium selenide suspensions, and indium selenide ethylene diamine coordination compounds in solvent. These liquid-based precursors can be deposited in liquid form onto substrates and treated by rapid thermal processing to form crystalline copper selenide and indium selenide films.
US08876966B2 Rapid curing water resistant composition for grouts, fillers and thick coatings
A premixed composition is formed from modified polyacrylate polymer, silicone emulsion, one or more amine compounds, and silane, that cures rapidly to form a composition that can be used as a grout or coating. The premixed composition includes a latex resin including an acrylic-based polymer, a silicone emulsion, one or more amine compounds, and a silane, and optionally various fillers, pigments, and adjuvants. These components in the proper proportions form a stable viscous suspension that can be floated into tile joints, and cleaned from an adjacent tile surface. The composition rapidly cures to form a hard mass that is resistant to abrasion, in both dry and wet conditions, is color consistent, and is resistant to staining.
US08876964B2 Method of making particulate material
The invention relates to a method of making a particulate material comprising; providing mineral wool base material in a form having size at least 80% not more than 40 mm, subjecting the mineral wool base material to sintering by use of a pulse combustor and thereby forming a particulate material in the form of particles having size at least 80% not more than 20 mm. An apparatus for carrying out the method comprises means for size reduction of coherent mineral wool substrate and a reaction chamber in communication with a pulse combustor.
US08876963B2 Dielectric coating for single sided back contact solar cells
A dielectric coating material system for use in a single-sided back contact solar cell is disclosed. The material system serves to electrically isolate electrodes of opposite polarity types on the same side of a silicon-based solar cell, and includes titanium and phosphorus.
US08876959B2 Self-heated dense ceramic tubes for separating gases
A device for at least one self-heated and dense ceramic tube for gas separation. The device includes at least one dense ceramic tube in an environment accessible to a mixture of gases, the at least one tube acting as a diffusion membrane for separating at least one gas from the mixture of gases. Two electrical contacts are provided which allow connecting a power supply to the ceramic tube and driving an electric current through the ceramic tube. The contacts can be in the farm of short coils wrapped around the ceramic tube at difference places. When a voltage is applied to the contacts, an electrical current flows from one contact to the other through the ceramic tube. The current in the ceramic tube heats the tube. Thus, the tubes heat themselves. The hot tube allows separating a gas from the mixture of gases. The driving force for the diffusion is achieved by a pressure difference generated by pumping at the side of the separated gas and pressing at the side of the mixture of gases.
US08876957B2 Adsorption rotor
An adsorption rotor has a surface layer which can be detached and replaced when performance degrades. A metal aggregate is extended in the width direction of the rotor element so that attachment-and-detachment adsorption rotor elements can be attached thereto using bolts and a perimeter griddle fixing bracket, thus resulting in protecting an upper part of the integral-type adsorption rotor element. In this way, the weight of the attachment-and-detachment adsorption rotor elements can be made light, resulting in them being fixable only using bolts, without special tools or skilled technicians. Moreover, because the detachment-and-replacement procedures can be performed from a rotor spindle side, thus from inside of a chamber, a heavy industrial machine is not required.
US08876954B2 Natural gas dehydration unit with continuously fired reboiler
A natural gas dehydration system and method includes a contactor, a flash tank, and a still interconnected by a desiccant circulation system. A continuously fired reboiler is coupled to the still and the flash tank to burn the flash gas from the flash tank and heat the desiccant.
US08876948B2 Method of making a composite gas separation module
A method of making a composite gas separation module by providing a porous support material having deposited thereon a metal membrane layer, by imposing upon the surface of the metal membrane layer certain surface characteristics including an abrasion pattern and a relatively high surface roughness that provides for surface activation that enhances the placement thereon of a subsequent metal membrane layer without the use of a chemical activating solution. The composite gas separation module is useful in the separation of hydrogen from hydrogen-containing gas streams.
US08876946B2 Combined fuel stabilization unit and heat exchanger
A conditioner for conditioning fuel passing therethrough includes a deoxygenator having a body in which oxygen is removed from the fuel, and a heat exchanger attaching directly to the body for moderating a temperature of the fuel.
US08876940B2 Super Integrated Security and Air Cleansing Systems (SISACS)
The present invention provides an air cleansing system that removes the polluted air and controls the air temperature. This system may by optionally integrated with other systems including security, surveillance, smoke alarms and the like.
US08876939B2 Process and system for briquetting titanium
A system and a method are provided that take a potentially dangerous waste product and process the product to create a marketable asset. The system and method are configured to create “tb” from “tbgs” by removing the volatility that exists in the “tbgs.” The resultant “tb” may be substantially non-volatile.
US08876934B2 Apparatus and method for electromagnetic stirring in an electrical arc furnace
An apparatus for electromagnetic stirring of the steel melt in an electrical arc furnace includes two electromagnetic stirrer units, a current supply, and a control unit. The two stirrers are mounted on an outer bottom surface of the electrical arc furnace at opposites sides of a central position of the bottom surface, the current supply is operatively connected to the two electromagnetic stirrer units, and the control unit is operatively connected to the current supply to control the operation of the two electromagnetic stirrer units.
US08876930B2 Single/multiple guard(s)/cap(s) and/or screen(s) with engine attached chamber/manifold particle collector
This invention relates in general to a fixed guard(s)/cap(s) and/or screen(s) apparatus (single and/or double formation) shall effect multiple aspects for example the nacelle and inlet for numerous craft, jets, turbojet, turboprop and turboshaft engines—(Helicopters and other VTOL aircraft) such as power plants or the like. This apparatus contains the rotational system(s) which may be applied to the engine shaft attached apparatus and/or pole that allows the mechanism to function by self-induced movement, without limiting engine thrust. Additional security measures have been introduced to the guard(s), cap(s) and/or screen(s) apparatus, which includes a gaseous intake cavity, centrifuge, chamber, manifold and processes—static free and or purification chamber, and a particle collector without limiting engine thrust.
US08876928B2 Automatic flow blocking system for reverse pulse filter cleaning
A powder processing system having a processing vessel into which powder is pneumatically supplied and an exhaust plenum that communicates with the processing vessel through an exhaust port. A filter is located at the exhaust port for filtering air borne powder from the air flow exiting the processing vessel, and a reverse pulse air filtering device is provided for selectively removing accumulated powder from the filter. The cleaning device includes a nozzle having a first portion within the air plenum and a second portion within the air filter, and a plunger is mounted on the first filter portion for movement to an exhaust port closing position as an incident to the direction of pressurized air through the first portion of the nozzle for enabling pressurized air from the second portion of the nozzle to thereupon be directed through the filter without hindrance of air exiting the processing vessel.
US08876925B2 Bio-oil having reduced mineral content, and process for making
A process is disclosed for converting a biomass material to a stabilized bio-oil. The process comprises converting the biomass to a pyrolytic oil having suspended therein particles of metal compounds, and removing at least part of the suspended metal compounds to obtain a stabilized bio-oil.
US08876923B2 Fuel compositions
A fuel composition having an enhanced thermal stability in a diesel fuel application is provided comprising a base fuel containing: (a) 90 to 50% by volume based on the base fuel, of a petroleum refined diesel fuel having sulfur level of less than 500 ppm, and boiling point within the range of about 150 to about 400° C.; (b) 5 to 25% by volume based on the base fuel, a Fischer-Tropsch derived gas oil; and (c) 5 to 25% by volume based on the base fuel, a fatty acid alkyl ester having C18:2 to C18:1 ratio of 1.5 to 2.8 wherein the alkyl group has a carbon number from 1 to 4.
US08876918B2 Bio-based wax compositions and applications
Bio-based wax compositions contain at least one of the following components: epoxides of non-hydrogenated vegetable oils, epoxides of fatty acid esters. epoxides of tall oil fatty acid esters, chemically modified epoxides of non-hydrogenated vegetable oils, chemically modified epoxides of fatty acid esters, and chemically modified epoxides of tall oil fatty acid esters. The wax compositions can be used to produce candle sticks, container candles and/or composite materials.
US08876917B2 Lithium-ion secondary battery
A lithium-ion secondary battery is provided where the production process line that fabricated it can be identified. The lithium-ion secondary battery includes a jelly roll, a positive electrode tab, a negative electrode tab, a positive electrode can, and a lid. The jelly roll is made by rolling the positive electrode and the negative electrode with an interposed separator, and is contained in the casing. The positive electrode tab has one end connected to the positive electrode of the jelly roll and the other end connected to the lid. The negative electrode tab has one end connected to the negative electrode of the jelly roll and the other end connected to a terminal provided on the lid. The other end of the negative electrode tab has a shape with a cut at a cut angle determined in accordance with the production process line that fabricated the lithium-ion secondary battery.
US08876914B2 Synthesis and application reactive antimicrobial copolymers for textile fibers
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide polymer compositions, methods of making polymer compositions, structures (e.g., textile articles) having the polymer composition covalently bonded to the structure, methods of attaching the polymer to the surface of the structure, methods of decreasing the amount of microorganisms formed on a structure, and the like.
US08876912B2 Method and device for controlling an artificial orthotic or prosthetic joint
The invention relates to a device and method for controlling an artificial orthotic or prosthetic joint of a lower extremity, comprising a resistance unit with which at least one actuator is associated, via which the bending and/or stretching resistance is varied depending on sensor data. During the use of the joint, status information is provided via sensors. According to the invention, the resistance is increased in the standing phase or while standing from a starting value depending on the ground reaction force up to a locking point of the joint.
US08876910B2 Method for preparing biomedical surfaces
A method for selectively dissolving the beta (β) phase of a titanium alloy out of the surface of the alloy, thereby leaving behind a nano-scale porous surface having enhanced bonding properties with either a biological tissue, such as bone, or an adhesive material, such as a polymer or ceramic by immersing the alloy in an ionic aqueous solution containing high levels of hydrogen peroxide and then exposing the alloy to an electrochemical voltage process resulting in the selective dissolution of the beta phase to form a nano-topographic metallic surface.
US08876906B2 Method and apparatus for spine joint replacement
A prosthesis for the replacement of the cartilaginous structures of a spine motion segment is described. The prosthesis comprises an intervertebral disc prosthesis in combination with a facet joint prosthesis.
US08876903B2 In vitro test system for viral infections
The invention relates to a multi-layered biological in vitro tissue containing: dermis layer, containing a collagen biomatrix with fibroblasts embedded therein and epidermis layer, containing epithelial cells. It is provided that latently virally infected neuronal cells are integrated at least into the dermis layer.
US08876898B2 Intraocular implants and related kits and methods
Devices, methods and kits are described for reducing intraocular pressure. The devices include a support that is implantable within Schlemm's canal and that may restore or maintain at least partial patency of the canal without substantially interfering with transmural or transluminal fluid flow across the canal. The devices utilize the natural drainage process of the eye and may be implanted with minimal trauma to the eye. Kits may include a support and an introducer for implanting the support within Schlemm's canal. Methods may include implanting a support within Schlemm's canal, where the support is capable of restoring or maintaining at least partial patency of the canal without substantial interference with transmural or transluminal fluid flow across the canal.
US08876894B2 Leaflet-sensitive valve fixation member
A prosthesis is provided for implantation at a native semilunar valve of a native valve complex. The prosthesis includes a distal fixation member, configured to be positioned in a downstream artery, and to apply a first axial force directed toward a ventricle. The prosthesis further includes a proximal fixation member coupled to the distal fixation member, the proximal fixation member configured to be positioned at least partially on a ventricular side of the native valve complex, and to apply a second axial force directed toward the downstream artery, such that application of the first and second forces couples the prosthesis to the native valve complex by axially sandwiching the native valve complex from a downstream side and the ventricular side thereof. The prosthesis is configured, upon implantation thereof, to embrace, without squeezing, leaflets of the native semilunar valve. Other embodiments are also described.
US08876893B2 Transcatheter prosthetic heart valve delivery device with passive trigger release
A delivery device for percutaneously deploying a prosthetic valve includes a sheath, an inner shaft, and a release assembly. The release assembly is disposed between the sheath and the inner shaft, and includes a retraction member, a release member, and a retention member. The retraction member can self-retract in length from an extended condition to a retracted condition. The release member can self-expand from a compressed condition to an expanded condition. The retention member is distal the release member. In a delivery state, the sheath end is distal the retention member, the release member is in the compressed condition and the retraction member in the extended condition to retain the prosthesis. In a deployment state, the sheath end is positioned to permit the release member to self-transition to the expanded condition, allowing the retraction member to self-transition to the retracted condition and release the prosthesis.
US08876892B2 Prosthetic heart valve delivery system with spacing
A device for percutaneously deploying a stented prosthetic heart valve includes a distal portion, a spacing collar, and an outer collar. The distal portion provides a coupling structure configured to selectively engage the stented prosthetic heart valve. The spacing collar is located proximal to the distal portion. The spacing collar is transitionable from a loaded state to an activated state. The spacing collar in the loaded state has a radial dimension less than the spacing collar in the activated state. The outer collar is configured to be movable relative to the distal portion and the spacing collar. The outer collar is slidably disposed over the spacing collar to provide the loaded state and is slidably retracted from the spacing collar when in the activated state.
US08876890B2 Methods of treatment with biodegradation of a stent scaffolding
Disclosed is a stent comprising a bioabsorbable polymeric scaffolding; and a plurality of depots in at least a portion of the scaffolding, wherein the plurality of depots comprise a bioabsorbable material, wherein the degradation rate of all or substantially all of the bioabsorbable polymer of the scaffolding is faster than the degradation rate of all or substantially all of the bioabsorbable material of the depots.
US08876876B2 Prosthesis and delivery system
A prosthesis delivery system including a prosthesis mounted on an elongate member. The prosthesis has a locking member positioned on the prosthesis. The locking member includes a reduced diameter portion with two opposing surfaces that are configured to engage opposing proximal and distal sides of a radially extending member on the elongate member to lock or limit the longitudinal position of the prosthesis on the elongate member during delivery of the prosthesis to a treatment site.
US08876875B1 Thermal therapy apparel
The present invention is a two-layer garment adapted to receive one or more body parts to provide a user with compression and thermal therapy. The two layers comprise of an inner base layer having a compression fit and an outer mesh layer. The layers are attached to one another such that an intermediate space exists between the two layers. The intermediate space is accessible through one or more openings to the intermediate space. The opening and intermediate space are adapted to receive a thermal transferring element. A thermal pouch having a plurality of projections on an outward facing surface may receive the thermal transferring element prior to insertion into the intermediate space or the projections may be located on the thermal transferring element itself. The outer mesh layer receives the projections securing the thermal transferring element at any location, resulting in unmatched customizable thermal and compression therapy.
US08876869B1 Polyaxial bone screw assembly
The present invention involves a system and methods for assembling and implanting a polyaxial bone screw assembly. The polyaxial bone screw assembly includes, but is not necessarily limited to, a bone screw that can be initially secured to a bony structure and subsequently have a receiver assembly attached to the implanted bone screw. Additionally, a closure structure is a part of the polyaxial bone screw assembly and functions to secure an elongate member within the receiver assembly.
US08876867B2 Spinal correction tensioning system
A vertebral column correction system for correcting a spinal deformity without fusing the joint segments is disclosed. The vertebral column correction system may have first and second vertebral anchors secured to first and second vertebrae. The vertebral column correction system may further comprise one or more intermediate vertebral anchors secured to vertebrae between the first and second vertebrae. A connection member may be disposed within a head portion of the vertebral anchors. At least a portion of the connection member may be a flexible member, such as a flexible cord, configured for tensioning between at least two vertebral anchors for providing a desired amount of tension to apply a correctional force to the spinal column. A spring member, or other tensioning member, may maintain the tension of the connection member.
US08876864B2 Surgical sutures incorporated with stem cells or other bioactive materials
Materials and methods for immobilizing bioactive molecules, stem and other precursor cells, and other agents of therapeutic value in surgical sutures and other tissue scaffold devices are described herein. Broadly drawn to the integration and incorporation of bioactive materials into suture constructs, tissue scaffolds and medical devices, the present invention has particular utility in the development of novel systems that enable medical personnel performing surgical and other medical procedures to utilize and subsequently reintroduce bioactive materials extracted from a patient (or their allogenic equivalents) to a wound or target surgical site.
US08876863B2 Endovascular closure device
An aneurysm closure device that includes a retention assembly, adapted to retain the closure device in place on an aneurysm neck. Also, a seal has a wire frame, defining a set of eyeholes and thread, threaded through the set of eyeholes, to form a lattice. Finally, an expanse of silicone, is cured onto the thread, to form a barrier.
US08876860B2 Vascular closure device
The present invention provides a porous structure that works very effectively to seal a puncture site with optimum porosity, absorbent capacity and perfect anatomical fit. The plug density and other fiber properties/geometry (total denier; number of filaments; etc) have provided an efficient structure that allows instantaneous absorption of blood during deployment. The final size of the plug with absorbed fluids provides an anatomical fit and seals the puncture site within few minutes after deployment.
US08876858B2 Surgical instrument with elastically movable instrument head
Disclosed is a surgical instrument comprising an instrument handle, an instrument shaft shaft having a distal end and a proximal end at which the instrument handle is linked, an instrument head, pivotally linked to the distal end of the instrument shaft via a hinge shaft or pins and comprising an effector rotatably supported in said instrument head around its longitudinal axis as well as a surgical tool held by said effector, and a mechanical transmission system at least partially arranged within said instrument shaft transmitting mechanical operation signals from said instrument handle to said instrument head at least for pivoting and/or rotating motions. A bending flexible as well as rotating rigid, hollow spindle is arranged bypassing said hinge shaft or pins and directly connecting said effector with the mechanical transmission system for transmitting at least rotating signals via said spindle to said effector.
US08876856B2 Human skin treatment arrangement
A human skin treatment arrangement configured to treat surface conditions of human skin, especially the wrinkle, fine lines or scar appeared on the surface of human face. In a treatment mode, the arrangement is configured for attaching to a portion of human skin such that the area of the human skin under treatment is maintained in a stretched position to enhance the treatment effect. In a further embodiment, the arrangement comprises a wrinkle relief agent or a scar relief agent to treat the surface of the skin.
US08876852B2 Occluding device for occlusion of a body vessel and method for making the same
In at least one embodiment of the present invention, a method for making an occluding device for occlusion of fluid flow through a lumen of a body vessel is provided. The method comprises attaching a coating to an embolization coil that is substantially straight. The coating is nominally strained on the substantially straight embolization coil. The embolization coil has a pre-curled tension to facilitate the embolization coil being curled within the lumen of the body vessel when deployed. The embolization coil is restrained from curling until deploying to reduce pre-deployment straining of the coating.
US08876851B1 Systems and methods for performing spinal fusion surgery
A system and method for performing spine surgery, including a tissue distraction assembly. The tissue distraction assembly includes an initial dilator, a secondary dilator, a first expander, and a second expander. The tissue distraction assembly is provided with an overall generally oblong shape. The tissue distraction assembly provides for asymmetrical tissue distraction in a single direction.
US08876849B2 False lumen occluder
An endoluminal device for repairing an aortic dissection and preventing future aortic dissections, the device including a plurality of struts with at least one of the plurality of struts having a mid-strut portion having two or more secondary struts, the device being configured to be secured within a false lumen of the aorta and contain filler material in order to encourage thrombosis within the false lumen.
US08876846B2 Disposable/single-use blade lancet device and method
Single-use blade lancet device includes a body having a rear end and a front end. A triggering mechanism has a blade tip opening and is mounted to the body. A blade member is movably mounted within the body and includes a front end and a rear end. The blade member is movable at least between a first retracted position, an extended position, and a second retracted position. A biasing arrangement biases the blade member from the first retracted position towards the extended position and then towards the second retracted position. A guiding arrangement guides the blade member while the blade member moves from the first retracted position towards the extended position and then towards the second retracted position. This Abstract is not intended to define the invention disclosed in the specification, nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
US08876841B2 Spinal disc anulus repair method and apparatus
An apparatus for anulus fibrosus repair includes a shaft, a pair of curved suturing needles mounted in parallel on the shaft, and a rotational driving mechanism connected to the shaft, which is configured to rotate the shaft and the pair of needles about a rotation axis of the shaft. Each needle includes a substantially semi-annular body having a proximal end, a distal end, an inner periphery, and an outer periphery, and an arm extending radially inward from the proximal end, in which a concavity is formed in the body proximate to the distal end extending in a direction away from it. Also disclosed is a suturing technique associated with use of the repair apparatus.
US08876836B2 Insertion instrument for an intervertebral implant
In an insertion instrument for a three-piece intervertebral implant that includes an upper part that can be placed against a vertebra, a lower part that can be placed against the adjacent vertebra, and a pivot element that can be inserted between these two parts, the instrument having two arms, disposed side by side and supported pivotably relative to one another on one end, which at their free ends each have one retention device for the upper part and lower part, respectively, of the intervertebral implant, it is proposed that a longitudinal guide for the pivot element is disposed in one of the arms.
US08876834B2 Device for the injection of bone cement, comprising an overpressure locking system
The invention relates to a device for the injection of a bone cement. The invention comprises a container provided with one end including an outlet and a second end that receives a piston. The piston is moved by means of an injection screw that projects from the container body and engages with gripping means comprising injection screw rotation means that can self-lock depending on the pressure exerted inside the container body, said rotation means comprising a handle which is provided with a passage that receives the injection screw and which is hinged thereto by means of a pair of male/female disks. One disk is known as the drive disk and moves integrally with the rotation movements of the handle, while the other disk is known as the driven disk, said drive disk coming into contact with the driven disk in response to a compressive force exerted on the distal part of the injection screw.
US08876833B2 Multi-port delivery system
A device for delivering material to multiple surgical target locations includes a pressure reservoir selectably coupled to two or more outlets. Coupling the pressure reservoir to a given one of the outlets and pressurizing the pressure reservoir causes flowable material (e.g., bone filler material) to be dispensed from that outlet. A diverter for selectably coupling the pressure reservoir one of the outlets can be configured to trigger a pressure release valve for the pressure reservoir upon switching, thereby preventing unexpected or uncontrolled material delivery from the new outlet in response to sudden high pressure exposure.
US08876831B2 Arthroplasty systems and methods for optimally aligning and tensioning a knee prosthesis
A combination of a first assembly for guiding resection of a femur and tibia of a knee joint and a second assembly including femoral and tibial knee components. The combination of the first assembly and the second assembly provides optimal placement and positioning of the femoral and tibial knee components to achieve near-normal knee kinematics and tension. The preparation for and placement of the prosthetic knee components provides medial-pivoting kinematics mimicking that of the natural knee thereby promoting improved outcome for the patient.
US08876829B2 Adjustable apparatus and methods for inserting an implant
Methods and apparatus for inserting an implant into an intervertebral cavity between adjacent vertebral bodies provide for: adjust an initial height between inner surfaces of respective first and second ramps of an inserter; simultaneously sliding first and second ramps of the inserter, and the implant, proximally, toward distal ends of the first and second ramps, such that the vertebral contact surfaces of the respective first and second ramps separate and distract the vertebral bodies and receive the implant into the intervertebral space with no compressive loading, while holding an initial angle between the ramps substantially constant.
US08876827B2 Surgical cutting devices and methods
The present invention provides surgical drilling devices and methods. An exemplary surgical drilling device in accordance with the present invention comprises a housing, a retractable guide tube assembly, and a flexible cable drill. The retractable guide tube assembly includes an arcuate guide tube having a first portion that is slidingly positioned in an arcuate portion of the housing. A second portion comprising an actuating tube is slidingly positioned in a linear portion of the housing. The arcuate guide tube is controllably advancable from the housing and retractable into the housing. The flexible cable drill comprises a first portion slidingly positioned in the arcuate guide tube and a second portion slidingly positioned in the actuating tube.
US08876826B2 Apparatus and method to access bone marrow
An apparatus and method for penetrating bone marrow is provided. The apparatus may include a housing such as a handheld body, a penetrator assembly, a connector that releasably attaches the penetrator assembly to a drill shaft, a gear mechanism, a motor and a power supply and associated circuitry operable to power the motor. The penetrator assembly may include a removable inner trocar and an outer penetrator or needle. It may also include a grooved trocar that allows bone chips to be expelled as the apparatus is inserted into bone marrow. Various connectors are provided to attach the penetrator assembly to the drill shaft.
US08876824B2 Sternum fixation device
A sternum fixation device for securing parts of a sternum includes first and second removably associated plates. The first plate has an upper surface and a sternum contacting surface, and at least one hole passing through both of these surfaces for receiving a fastener head. The second plate has at least one attachment member for fixation to the sternum. A release member holds the first and second plates together, and is movably associated with at least one of the first and second plates such that it may be moved to allow separation of the two parts of the sternum.
US08876815B2 Energy delivery devices for hepatic neuromodulation
According to some embodiments, a method of treating a subject having diabetes or symptoms associated with diabetes is provided. The method includes delivering a neuromodulation catheter within a vessel (e.g., hepatic artery) having surrounding nerves that innervate the liver (e.g., sympathetic nerves of the hepatic plexus). The method may also include modulating (e.g., disrupting, ablating, stimulating) the nerves by mechanical compression, energy delivery, or fluid delivery.
US08876813B2 Methods, systems, and apparatus for neural signal detection
Methods, systems, and apparatus for signal detection are described. In one example, a detection assembly includes a signal detector. The signal detector is configured to receive a sensor signal having a peak magnitude and a first frequency and generate an output signal having a magnitude proportional to the peak magnitude of the sensor signal and having a second frequency less than the first frequency of the sensor signal.
US08876812B2 Self-limiting electrosurgical return electrode with pressure sore reduction and heating capabilities
A self-limiting electrosurgical electrode for use with electrosurgery and various other surgical procedures is disclosed. The electrode includes a heating element for generating heat to warm a patient resting upon the electrode. The electrode can also include one or more pads to prevent the creation of pressure sores or decubitus ulcers on a patient resting upon the electrode. The electrode has an effective bulk impedance equal to or greater than about 4,000 Ω·cm, which arises from resistive components, capacitive components, inductive components, or combinations thereof. Through the selection of the impedance characteristics for the electrode materials, and through tailoring of electrode geometries, the electrode of the present invention is self-regulating and self-limiting as to current density and temperature rise so as to prevent patient trauma.
US08876808B2 Ophthalmic laser system
An ophthalmic laser system generating a first beam at a wavelength suitable for performing selective laser trabeculoplasty and selectively generating a second beam at a wavelength suitable for performing secondary cataract surgery procedures. The laser system is able to select between directing the first beam or the second beam to the eye of a patient. The first beam is suitably generated at 1064 nm from a Nd:YAG laser and the second beam is frequency doubled to 532 nm in a KTP doubling crystal.
US08876797B2 Catheters with high-purity fluoropolymer additives
The present invention provides catheter compositions that provide anti-thrombogenic properties while not adversely impacting mechanical properties. All embodiments of the present invention comprise a catheter that comprises a fluoropolymer additive with specific compositions and/or purity levels.
US08876796B2 Method of accessing the left common carotid artery
Single filter and multi-filter endolumenal methods and systems for filtering fluids within the body. In some embodiments a blood filtering system captures and removes particulates dislodged or generated during a surgical procedure and circulating in a patient's vasculature. In some embodiments a filter system protects the cerebral vasculature during a cardiac valve repair or replacement procedure.
US08876785B2 Delivery member attachment device
The present invention relates to a delivery member attachment device (10) comprising a neck (12) having an inner space intended to accommodate a connection part of a medicament container, which neck (12) is intended to receive a delivery member (30) for creating a passage between the medicament container via the connection part and through the delivery member, that said neck (12) is arranged with threads (14) arranged to engage with corresponding threads (34) of an attachment part (32 of said delivery member (30), and wherein said neck (12) further is arranged with a number of slits (16) providing a number of tongues (18) between said slits, and wherein said tongues (18) are arranged to flex inwards, when a delivery member (30) is to be attached, to allow an axial pushing of said attachment part (32) onto, and in engagement with, said neck (12).
US08876784B2 Anti-drawback medical valve
A medical valve includes a housing having an interior forming an inlet and an outlet. A longitudinally movable member is secured within the interior of the housing. External to the movable member and within the interior is a fluid path. Movement of the movable member controls fluid flow between the inlet and the outlet via the fluid path. The outlet produces no greater than a negligible drawback or positive push during withdrawal of a nozzle.
US08876783B2 Medicament delivery device
The present invention relates to a medicament delivery device comprising a housing (12); a medicament container (14) arranged within said housing; medicament delivery drive means (22, 24); manually operable release means (38); and a movement speed control mechanism (44, 46, 48) comprising at least one fixed, flexible and elongated compartment (48) containing a liquid, and at least one flexible speed control member (44, 46) connected to the medicament delivery drive means; wherein said at least speed control member is arranged to be pressing on said at least one compartment for forcing said liquid past said member and thereby creating a movement speed control of said medicament delivery drive means when moved.
US08876772B2 Variable stiffness shaft
Medical devices may include structure or provision that permit a physician or other health care professional to adjust particular parameters such as flexibility, stiffness and compressive strength of at least a portion of the medical device. In some instances, the medical device may be adjusted prior to inserting the medical device into a patient. In some cases, the medical device may be adjusted while in use within the patient.
US08876771B2 Propellant pillow manufacturing technique
An improved technique for manufacturing a propellant pillow for use in filling a propellant chamber of an implantable pump is disclosed. The method preferably results in the creation of an already filled propellant pillow, which therefore negates the need for the separate filling of the pillow.
US08876768B2 Auto-injector
The invention refers to an auto-injector for administering a medicament (M), comprising of a chassis, a syringe with a hollow needle and a stopper; a drive spring capable of, upon activation: advancing the needle (3), injecting the medicament (M), and retracting the syringe with the needle after delivering the medicament (M); and; activating means arranged to lock and release the drive spring, wherein the drive spring is a compression spring arranged to be grounded at a distal end in the chassis for advancing the needle and for injecting the dose of medicament (M) via a plunger and wherein the drive spring is arranged to have its ground in the chassis switched to its proximal end for retracting the syringe. A refraction sleeve is axially movable arranged around the syringe, wherein the retraction sleeve is fixable in a maximum proximal position for providing ground at the distal end of the drive spring, wherein the retraction sleeve is arranged to take the syringe with it when released and translated in distal direction (D), wherein the compression spring is wrapped over the retraction sleeve with its distal end bearing against a thrust face on the retraction sleeve and with its proximal end bearing against a thrust collar arranged to be coupled to the plunger for joint axial translation for advancing the needle and for injecting the dose of medicament (M) and to decouple from the plunger for retraction.
US08876762B2 Nasogastric and orogastric feeding devices, system comprising them, methods and uses thereof
The present invention relates to the field of medical devices. Specifically, the invention relates to an enteral feeding device comprising expandable means which prevents or significantly reduces aspirations from the alimentary tract to the respiratory system. In further aspects, the invention relates to systems comprising said enteral feeding device, methods and uses thereof.
US08876757B2 Fluid level detection system
A medical device fluid sensing system is provided. The system includes a transmitter array positioned in association with a fluid maintaining device, such as a reservoir in a cassette. Electrical circuitry is connected to the transmitter array and configured to cause the transmitter array to transmit light energy at a predetermined wavelength and producing a desired absorption coefficient based on expected conditions within the fluid maintaining device. The system also includes a receiver array configured to receive light energy transmitted through the fluid maintaining device and originating from the transmitter array, and a controller configured to determine fluid level in the fluid maintaining device based on conditions sensed by the receiver array. In one embodiment, three transmitters and three matching sensors are provided in a surgical cassette, and when optical energy having predetermined characteristics is provided to the transmitter array, the presence or absence of fluid is determined.
US08876747B2 Micro-burst ultrasonic power delivery
Phacoemulsification apparatus includes a phacoemulsification handpiece having a needle and an electrical system for ultrasonically vibrating said needle along with a power source for providing pulsed electrical power to the handpiece electrical system. Irrigation fluid is provided to the handpiece needle and aspirating fluid is removed from the handpiece needle. A determination of a voltage current phase relationship of the provided electrical power is made and in response thereto a control system varies a power level duty cycle provided to the handpiece electrical system from the power source and/or modify the aspiration flow rate. In addition, a separate input enables manual control of pulse amplitude. The control system provides a pulsed electrical power of less than 20 millisecond pulse duration.
US08876746B2 Electrosurgical system and method for treating chronic wound tissue
An electrosurgical method for treating chronic wound tissue, comprising: positioning an active electrode in close proximity to the chronic wound, the active electrode being disposed on a distal end of an electrosurgical shaft; applying a high-frequency voltage potential difference across the active electrode and a return electrode sufficient to develop a high electric field intensity associated with a vapor layer proximate the active electrode and in close proximity to the wound tissue; and stimulating an expression of at least one healing mediator.
US08876741B2 Body weight support device
A coil spring 14 is provided in a leg link 3. In the case where an extent of flexion of the leg link 3 is not more than a predetermined extent, the coil spring 14 applies, to a third joint 8, a first biasing force for preventing the extent of flexion of the leg link 3 from decreasing due to gravity acting on a body weight support device A. In the case where the extent of flexion of the leg link 3 exceeds the predetermined extent, the coil spring 14 applies, to the third joint 8, a second biasing force for decreasing the extent of flexion, where the second biasing force is larger than the first biasing force and increases with an increase of the extent of flexion. This enables a sufficient support force to be generated when standing up from a half-sitting posture or a crouching posture, without significantly interfering with walking.
US08876740B2 Methods and systems for non-invasive treatment of tissue using high intensity focused ultrasound therapy
Methods and systems for non-invasive treatment of tissue using high intensity focused ultrasound (“HIFU”) therapy. A method of non-invasively treating tissue in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology, for example, can include positioning a focal plane of an ultrasound source at a target site in tissue. The ultrasound source can be configured to emit HIFU waves. The method can further include pulsing ultrasound energy from the ultrasound source toward the target site, and generating shock waves in the tissue to induce boiling of the tissue at the target site within milliseconds. The boiling of the tissue at least substantially emulsifies the tissue.
US08876737B2 Monitoring sleep stages to determine optimal arousal times and to alert an individual to negative states of wakefulness
A system and method for monitoring sleep stages to determine optimal arousal times and to alert an individual to negative states of wakefulness. In an embodiment, a device receives pressure data from at least one pressure sensor, where the pressure sensor is associated with furniture used for an individual to sleep. The device uses the pressure data to determine a sleep stage for the individual. The sleep stage is used to determine whether it is an optimal arousal time for the individual. The device sends an indication to not wake the individual if it is not the optimal arousal time for the individual. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US08876734B2 Systems and methods for parenterally procuring bodily-fluid samples with reduced contamination
The present invention is directed to the parenteral procurement of bodily-fluid samples. The present invention is also directed to systems and methods for parenterally procuring bodily-fluid samples with reduced contamination from dermally-residing microbes. In some embodiments, a bodily-fluid withdrawing system is used to withdraw bodily fluid from a patient for incubation in culture media in one or more sample vessels. Prior to withdrawing bodily fluid into the one or more sample vessels for incubation, an initial volume of withdrawn bodily fluid is placed in one or more pre-sample reservoirs and is not used for the incubation in culture media.
US08876733B2 Multipurpose male fluidic coupling for a coupling device and device such as this incorporating it
The present invention relates to a male fluid coupling to be pushed into a female coupling in order to form a fluidic coupling device with no dead volume able to transfer a fluid, and to such a device. The female coupling (102) is coupled to a first pipe (C1) communicating with a second pipe (C2) passing through the male coupling, this female coupling having an internal push-fitting surface (103) ending in a female end (104) at which the first pipe emerges, and male coupling comprises an external push-fitting surface (106) ending in a male end (107) intended to lie inside the female coupling. This second pipe is pushed into the male coupling beyond the male end and has a free end (110) pressed fluid tightly against the female end by return means (111) which, during a push-fitting operation, collaborate with guiding and retaining means (114) designed to guide this second pipe as it slides through the male coupling while keeping this free end against the female end so as to eliminate any dead volume between the first pipe and the male coupling, making this male coupling compatible with all kinds of corresponding female couplings.
US08876729B2 Catheter air management system
An air management system is described for removing and reintroducing a desired amount of air into an air passage of a pressure measurement catheter. More specifically, the system includes a cylindrical housing, check valves in communication with the housing and an moveable shaft with multiple sealing members along its length. As the shaft is moved within the housing, a piston member causes the residual air in the catheter air passage to be evacuated to a defined negative pressure. Further movement of the shaft causes a piston member to inject a predetermined volume of air into the catheter air passage. In this respect, periodic adjustments of the piston member returns the volume of air in a variable volume chamber to one that is unaffected by residual volume in the chamber and that provides an optimum volume of air to maximize the time the sensor can function accurately between recharging events.
US08876728B2 System and method for quantifying lung compliance in a self-ventilating subject
The lung compliance of a subject that is at least partially self-ventilating is determined. The quantification of lung compliance may be an estimation, a measurement, and/or an approximate measurement. The quantification of lung compliance may be enhanced over conventional techniques and/or systems for quantifying lung compliance of self-ventilating subjects in the lung compliance may be quantified relatively accurately without an effort belt or other external sensing device that directly measures diaphragmatic muscle pressure, and without requiring the subject to manually control diaphragmatic muscle pressure. Quantification of lung compliance may be a useful tool in evaluating the health of the subject, including detection of fluid retention associated with developing acute congestive heart failure.
US08876725B2 Method and system for estimating exercise capacity
A method of estimating exercise capacity of a subject is disclosed. The method uses output radiofrequency signals transmitted to the subject during exercise and input radiofrequency signals received from the subject during exercise. The method comprises: determining a phase shift of the input radiofrequency signals relative to the output radiofrequency signals; calculating cardiac output based on the phase shift; and using the cardiac output for estimating the exercise capacity of the subject.
US08876724B2 Contact pressure sensing apparatus for use with exercise equipment sensors
Contact pressure sensing apparatus for use with exercise equipment sensors are described. An example apparatus includes a sensor to detect a physiological condition of a user of an exercise device through physical contact with the user and a pressure sensor to detect a contact pressure applied by the user to the sensor.
US08876717B2 Biological information acquisition apparatus
When a subject is pressed by a plate and an acoustic wave is received by a probe via the plate, the acoustic wave is refracted because of the difference between a sound velocity in the subject and a sound velocity in the plate. When the refraction is not considered, a reduction in resolution occurs. A correction table or a correction formula for correcting image distortion associated with refraction is provided. After image information is acquired, new image information is acquired in accordance with the correction table or the correction formula, and is displayed.