| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09056351B2 |
Stent with improved flexibility and method for making same
A stent and a method for manufacturing a stent are provided. The stent includes a first ring having a plurality of peaks and a plurality of valleys, a second ring having a plurality of peaks and a plurality of valleys, and a connector that connects one of the peaks of the first ring to one of the valleys of the second ring. The connected peak of the first ring includes a deformed portion that extends towards the connected valley of the second ring. The method includes forming a first ring having a plurality of peaks and a plurality of valleys, forming a second ring having a plurality of peaks and a plurality of valleys, deforming a portion of at least one of the peaks of the first ring, and connecting the deformed portion of the peak of the first ring to one of the valleys of the second ring. |
| US09056349B2 |
Coil-spring manufacturing apparatus
A coil wire material is bent by a first roll, a second roll, and a third roll. The bent coil wire material is pressed in a screwing direction, to shape a coil spring having a desired diameter and a pitch. A desired pitch can be accurately formed in a manner that a second roll provided on a downstream side of a conveying direction of the coil wire material is configured to be able to move hack and forth along the screwing direction of the coil spring and to be tiltable about an axis of rotation parallel to the conveying direction of the coil wire material. |
| US09056348B2 |
Method for manufacturing back frame for flat panel display device
The present invention provides a method and an apparatus for manufacturing a back frame for flat panel display devices. The method contains the steps of: delivering a material belt to a stamping device; conducting a first stamping at a region of a mold in the stamping device corresponding to a first work location of a stamping process; moving the material belt or mold move a next work location after completing the first stamping; conducting a second stamping at a region of the same mold corresponding to a second work location of the stamping process by the same stamping device; and obtaining the main pieces and braces for the back frame after sequentially completing the stampings by the same stamping device and the same mold. The present invention as described is capable of saving the costs for the stamping device, mold, and material. |
| US09056347B2 |
Press-die and press working method
A press-die is provided with a lower die and an upper die. The lower die includes a drawing punch, a blank holder, and a cushion part. The upper die includes a drawing die part, and a trimming part. The blank holder includes a first holder part disposed to face to an end portion of the drawing die part, and a second holder part disposed to face to the trimming part. The second holder part has a drawing support portion that supports a first portion of a bottom surface of the first holder part. The drawing punch has a trimming support portion that supports a second portion of the bottom surface of the first holder part. The first holder part has a lower trimming blade at an outer edge thereof. The trimming part has an upper trimming blade at an inner edge thereof. |
| US09056343B2 |
Cold-rolling method for preventing fracture of high-silicon strip steel
A cold-rolling method for preventing fracture of high-silicon strip steel, characterized in that the high-silicon strip steel has a Si content ≧2.3 wt %, and at the beginning of cold-rolling, the temperature of inlet strip steel is above 45° C.; during the cold-rolling process, an emulsion liquid is sputtered to the strip steel, a flow rate of the emulsion liquid is 3500 L/min at the inlet in rolling direction, a flow rate of the emulsion liquid is 1500-4000 L/min at an outlet in the rolling direction, and the temperature of the strip steel is maintained above 45° C. under the precondition to guarantee technological lubrication. The cold-rolling method of the invention might prevent fracture of a head portion and a tail portion of the strip steel, raise the rate of finished products, and increase production efficiency. |
| US09056341B2 |
Method for producing seamless tubes by means of a three-roll bar rolling mill
The invention relates to a method for producing seamless tubes from metal, particularly from steel, wherein a previously produced hot hollow block is stretched by means of a three-roll bar rolling mill on a mandrel to form a parent tube and, before running into the bar rolling mill, the hollow block is provided with a rolling step that makes the diameter more uniform by means of an upstream stand. It is in this case provided that the rolls of the upstream stand are moved apart and together to the same extent as the deforming stands of the bar rolling mill, wherein the calibrating base radius of the rolls of the upstream stand extends over 60° and this is followed by a flank radius with a tangential transition which is dimensioned such that even with the maximum setting of the rolls in the region of the flank there is virtually no diameter reduction of the largest hollow block diameter to be expected. |
| US09056339B2 |
Airfoil and baffle assemblies that reduce airflow requirements for fume hoods and fume hoods incorporating same
A fume hood includes a ventilated chamber having an access opening. A first elongated airfoil assembly is attached to an edge portion of a floor that extends from the opening. A sash is slidably mounted at the access opening and a second elongated airfoil assembly is attached to a lower edge of the sash. The first elongated airfoil assembly includes a plurality of elongated vanes in vertically spaced-apart relationship that define air flow channels. The second airfoil assembly includes a pair of elongated vanes in vertically spaced-apart relationship that define air flow channels that extend into the chamber. A baffle assembly is located in front of a rear wall of the chamber and includes a primary panel having a plurality of vertical air-exit slots adjacent a lower edge, and a buffering panel having a plurality of horizontal air-exit slots adjacent an upper portion. |
| US09056338B2 |
Self cleaning piezoelectric chemical apparatus and method of use
The invention is a piezoelectric self-cleaning apparatus, such as a chemical injection pump. The chemical injection pump is self-cleaning by employing either as an integral part or as an added part, a piezoelectric component that implosively cleans the pump head. This invention involves a liquid delivery system made of a liquid processing path and a piezoelectric actuator connected to or integral with said liquid processing path to enhance removal of unwanted solids from the liquid processing path or to maintain a blend, mix and/or integrity of a liquid chemical, wherein the liquid chemical does not precipitate particles, crystallize, separate or come out of solution. |
| US09056337B2 |
Automated method and device for cleaning of blended ice machine
The disclosure shows a device and method for automating the cleaning/sanitizing of the water and ice making system on a blended ice machine. The method eliminates the need to disassemble the unit in order to gain system access points to introduce cleaning and or sanitizing solutions. The method also automates the sequence of events required to insure cleaning is done according to a proven method. |
| US09056335B2 |
Method and apparatuses for screening
A screening machine includes wall members, screen assembly guide members, a screen assembly and a compression assembly. The screen assembly includes a frame with a plurality of side members and a screen supported by the frame. The compression assembly is attached to at least one wall member and forms the screen assembly into a concave shape. |
| US09056332B2 |
Method and apparatus for the formation of hydrophobic surfaces
The invention relates to the application of a coating to a substrate in which the coating includes a polymer material and the coating is selectively fluorinated and/or cured to improve the liquid repellance of the same. The invention also provides for the selective fluorination and/or curing of selected areas of the coating thus, when completed, providing a coating which has regions of improved liquid repellance with respect to the remaining regions and which remaining regions may be utilized as liquid collection areas. |
| US09056330B2 |
Functional roll production method
A functional roll comprises a shaft body, a roll body, flanges, and bearings. The roll body is formed by stacking multiple module functional rolls. The module functional rolls are formed by stacking multiple nonwoven fabric sheets. The module functional rolls have a bore in which the shaft body is inserted. A module function roll is united. |
| US09056327B2 |
Modular plural component spray system
A modular plural component spray system configured for drawing at least two components, each stored in a discrete drum and sending the at least two components to a spray gun. The spray system comprises at least two flow lines. Each flow line includes a pump, a counter configured to measure the work performed by the pump and a heater disposed outside of each discrete drum downstream from the pump, where each of the two flow lines is configured to be connected at a first end to the spray gun and a second end to each discrete drum and each of the at least two components is drawn from each discrete drum and heated with the heater before arriving at the spray gun to be mixed and dispensed. |
| US09056325B2 |
Multi-nozzle misting shower head
Disclosed is a misting shower head having a plurality of atomizing, solid cone spray nozzles for providing a soft showering device adapted to reduce water consumption and reduce the size and intensity of outgoing water droplets. The shower head comprises a housing having a fluid inlet directing water to a plurality of spray nozzles. The flow rate entering the housing is controlled by a straight through valve that is adjustable via a dual-handled arm that actuates the valve stopper mechanism, and thus varies the rate of fluid entering the shower head housing. The nozzles break up the flow of water into atomized droplets and increase the projected area in which the water is dispersed therefrom. The atomized spray from all nozzles creates a uniform cone of low intensity water, which reduces point pressure associated with higher intensity shower heads for treating sore muscles or experiencing an encompassing mist of water. |
| US09056323B2 |
Rich air sprayer component
The present invention is provided with a rich air sprayer component, which is disposed with a fixation part. The fixation part is disposed with an inlet part and an air enriching part. The inlet part is disposed with at least an inlet hole; the air enriching part is disposed with an air hole; the sectional area of the cavity of the air enriching part is larger than the sectional area of the inlet hole, making that negative pressure generates when water flows into the air enriching part from the inlet hole and air gets in from outside, air and water flow mix to form gas-water mixture, the sectional area of the cavity of the air enriching part is gradually narrowed, so that the gas-water mixture is dashed on the inner wall of the air enriching part to make water flow drawn air enough. It has advantages as below: the gas-water mixture is rich in air, making the sprayer with water saving, of granular sensation and strong spraying force. |
| US09056321B2 |
Spray gun, spray application apparatus, and spray application method
The spray gun is provided with a nozzle section which mixes gas into raw material liquid and also ejects the raw material liquid. The internal space of the nozzle section has an introduction path into which the raw material liquid is introduced, an open portion in which a flow path is enlarged more than the introduction path, thereby ejecting the raw material liquid in a fine particle form, a reduced diameter portion in which a flow path is made narrower than the open portion, thereby re-aggregating the raw material liquid in a fine particle form, and an ejection orifice portion which ejects the raw material liquid to the outside. In the nozzle section, a gas introduction hole which introduces gas into a base-end-side portion of the open portion is formed. |
| US09056320B2 |
Centrifuge including depressurization unit and cooling unit that cooperate with each other
A centrifuge capable of suppressing a long-time depressurization as compared with the case of starting depressurizing after cooling has been completed as well as shortening a cooling time of a rotor and a sample in the rotor is achieved as compared with the case of starting cooling is at the same time with depressurization. Operation of a Peltier element is started at the same time with operation start of the centrifuge. A bowl is cooled by heat absorption of the Peltier element, and the rotor is cooled by the bowl with using ambient air as a thermal medium. At this time, a vacuum pump depressurizing a rotor chamber is in an OFF state (ambient conditions). After a predetermined time is elapsed, the vacuum pump is turned on to start depressurization of the inside of the rotor chamber. |
| US09056314B2 |
Palladium catalyst, method for its preparation and its use
The invention relates to palladium(0)-tris{tri-[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)-phenyl]-phosphine} complex of formula (I), as well as to its preparation and use. This compound is outstandingly stable, and can be used as catalyst with excellent results. |
| US09056313B2 |
Catalysts for the production of hydroxy ether hydrocarbons by vapor phase hydrogenolysis of cyclic acetals and ketals
Catalyst compositions of palladium supported on alumina or zirconium oxide supports having low or no silicon dioxide contents and having a specific surface area or modified with alkali, alkaline earth, or phosphine oxide compounds are selective in a vapor phase hydrogenolysis reaction to convert cyclic acetal compounds and/or cyclic ketal compounds in the presence of hydrogen to their corresponding hydroxy ether hydrocarbon reaction products. |
| US09056312B2 |
Substrate for carbon nanotube growth and method for manufacturing the same
Provided is a substrate for carbon nanotube growth in which no metal particles as a catalyst aggregates and a method for manufacturing the substrate. A substrate for carbon nanotube growth 1 includes a base plate 2, a noble metal alloy catalyst 3 having an alloy of a noble metal and a transition metal, and a form-defining material layer 4 which allows the noble metal alloy catalyst 3 to be dispersed and arranged. A method for manufacturing a substrate for carbon nanotube growth 1 includes a step of sputtering a noble metal alloy on a base plate 2, a step of sputtering a form-defining material on the base plate 2, and a step of further sputtering the noble metal alloy on the form-defining material. |
| US09056308B2 |
Catalyst for catalytic cracking of hydrocarbon, which is used in production of light olefin and production method thereof
Disclosed are a molecular sieve catalyst and a preparation method thereof to produce light olefins from cracking naphtha catalytically in severe environments of high temperature and high moisture. In detail, the catalyst is prepared by spray-drying and calcining the mixed slurry, in which 0.01˜5.0 wt % of MnO2 and 1˜15 wt % of P2O5 are simultaneously imbedded in catalyst which consists of zeolite, clay and inorganic complex. According to the present invention, the method that manganese and phosphate are imbedded simultaneously in zeolite and inorganic complex is used to increases thermal-stability of obtained spherical catalyst, and increase olefin yield of cracking hydrocarbon such as naphtha by protecting acid-site of zeolite. To synthesize the required catalyst, the important procedures are mixing ratio and mixing sequence of Mn, P, zeolite, and inorganic complex. |
| US09056306B2 |
Regeneration of gas adsorbents
Two or more acidic gaseous species such as hydrogen sulphide and carbon dioxide from an adsorbent can be selectively removed from a feed gas by contacting the feed gas with an adsorbent for these acidic species, followed by: a. subjecting the adsorbent to a first purging gas, said first purging gas not containing said first acidic gaseous species and containing said second acidic gaseous species at a partial pressure which is at least the partial pressure of said second gaseous species in said feed gas; b. subsequently subjecting the adsorbent to a second purging gas, said second purging gas not containing said first gaseous species and, containing this second gaseous species at a partial pressure which is lower than the partial pressure of said second gaseous species in said feed gas. |
| US09056305B2 |
Catalyst for preparing vinyl chloride, methods of preparation and application thereof
The present invention discloses a catalyst used in preparing vinyl chloride, its method of preparation, and its applications. Said catalyst used in making vinyl chloride comprises activated carbon as a support, a barium compound and a phosphorus compound supported thereon. The barium compound accounts for 0.2% to 20% of the total mass of the catalyst and the phosphorus compound accounts for 0% to 10% of the total mass of the catalyst based on the mass percentage. A water-soluble barium compound, a water-soluble phosphorus compound, an aqueous polymer monomer, and water are mixed to form a solution or emulsion A. The activated carbon is added into the solution or emulsion A. The activated carbon is removed from water after impregnation, spin-dried, and then the monomers are polymerized. The activated carbon, after polymerization step, is heated to remove water and to decompose and carbonize the polymer. The catalyst after carbonization was activated to obtain a catalyst used in making vinyl chloride. |
| US09056303B2 |
Method for the continuous preparation of a catalytic system that is used to polymerize a conjugated diene and installation for implementing same
The present invention relates to a process for the continuous preparation of a catalytic system that can be used for the polymerization of at least one conjugated diene monomer, said catalytic system being based on at least: a preforming conjugated diene; an organic phosphoric acid salt of one or more rare-earth metal(s), said salt being in suspension in at least one saturated aliphatic or alicyclic and inert hydrocarbon-based solvent; an alkylating agent comprising an alkylaluminium having the formula AlR3 or HAlR2; and a halogen donor comprising an alkylaluminium halide; characterized in that it comprises successively in one line (L): (i) a reaction between the preforming conjugated diene, with the solution of the salt of rare-earth element(s) and the alkylating agent, with the alkylation reaction being carried out for a characteristic minimum period of at least 5 minutes in an alkylation reactor (30) composed of at least one well-mixed dynamic mixer; (ii) the addition of said halogen donor to the mixture obtained in (i), in order to produce a reaction for the halogenation-ageing of the preformed catalytic system and to continuously produce said preformed catalytic system at the outlet of said line (L). |
| US09056302B2 |
Highly branched polymers as cross-linking agents in microcapsule wall
The present invention relates to microcapsules comprising a capsule core and a capsule wall, obtainable by a process comprising the free-radical polymerization of an oil-in-water emulsion which comprises the following constituents: 30 to 90% by weight based on the total weight of the monomers of one or more monomers (monomers I) from the group comprising C1-C24-alkyl esters of acrylic acid and/or methacrylic acid, acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, maleic acid, fumaric acid and itaconic acid 10 to 70% by weight based on the total weight of the monomers of one or more ethylenically unsaturated crosslinkers (monomers II), where at least 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the monomers I, II and III, is a highly branched polymeric crosslinker, 0 to 30% by weight based on the total weight of the monomers of one or more monounsaturated monomers (monomer III), which are different from the monomers I, and a hydrophobic core material, to a process for their preparation and to their use. |
| US09056293B2 |
System and device for preparing and delivering food products from a mixture made up of a food liquid and a diluent
The invention relates to a system for hygienically reconstituting and delivering food preparations, such as drinks, comprising a metering and mixing device connected to a container containing a base liquid, in the form of a package configured to be connected to a base station. The metering and mixing device comprises a pump for metering the liquid, a diluent intake and a mixing chamber. Coupling means are provided for providing the diluent supply and the means for driving the liquid pump. |
| US09056292B2 |
Barrel alignment in extruder systems
A barrel alignment structure for a pair of barrel sections each defining an end surface configured to abut each other is disclosed. The barrel alignment structure comprises of a plurality of alignment pins distributed on the end surface of the first barrel section. The barrel alignment structure further comprises of a corresponding number of slots defined on the end surface of the second barrel section, each slot configured to receive one alignment pin, wherein the slot has a width substantially equal to that of the alignment pin and a length larger than the width of the alignment pin permitting relative thermal expansion between the pair of barrel sections. An extruder barrel section is also disclosed. The extruder barrel section defining an end surface configured to abut the end surface of another extruder barrel section. The extruder barrel section comprises of a plurality of alignment pins distributed on its end surface. Each alignment pin configured to be received by a corresponding slot defined on the end surface of the extruder barrel section abutting it, wherein the slot has a width substantially equal to that of the alignment pin and a length larger than the width of the alignment pin permitting relative thermal expansion between the pair of barrel sections. |
| US09056288B2 |
Mixing apparatus for producing a mixture composed of at least three components
A mixing apparatus for producing a mixture of flowable components is provided. Two inlet channels for the components to be mixed open into a first mixing channel having at least one mixing element disposed therein. A second mixing channel having at least one mixing element disposed therein is connected downstream of the first mixing channel. A third inlet channel opens directly or indirectly into the second mixing channel in order to admix a third component. In further embodiments, three or more mixing channels are present. In addition, a discharge comprising such a mixing apparatus and corresponding containers and a method for mixing at least three components are provided. |
| US09056286B2 |
Chemical solution feeder and method
A feeder is disclosed for dissolving a chemical and mixing it with a liquid. The feeder includes a hopper adapted to hold the chemical, a nozzle located in the hopper, and a supply of the liquid to the nozzle to dissolve the chemical on contact with the liquid from the nozzle to form a solution. A solution basin is disposed under the hopper and a drain is provided from the hopper into the solution basin. An outlet from the solution basin has an outlet valve which opens when a solution level in the solution basin rises. |
| US09056284B2 |
Chlorine resistant amides, polyamides, and membranes made from the same
A chlorine resistant polyamide is formed from the reaction product of an amine and an acid chloride monomer wherein both the amine and the acid chloride monomer are modified with electron-withdrawing groups that exhibit sufficient activity to (i) minimize any chlorination on both the amine and acid chloride and (ii) minimize N-chlorination. A membrane is made from the polyamide for use, for example, in a desalination unit. |
| US09056282B2 |
Accelerating transport through graphene membranes
Technologies are generally described for a membrane that may incorporate a graphene layer perforated by a plurality of nanoscale pores. The membrane may also include a gas sorbent that may be configured to contact a surface of the graphene layer. The gas sorbent may be configured to direct at least one gas adsorbed at the gas sorbent into the nanoscale pores. The nanoscale pores may have a diameter that selectively facilitates passage of a first gas compared to a second gas to separate the first gas from a fluid mixture of the two gases. The gas sorbent may increase the surface concentration of the first gas at the graphene layer. Such membranes may exhibit improved properties compared to conventional graphene and polymeric membranes for gas separations, e.g., greater selectivity, greater gas permeation rates, or the like. |
| US09056281B2 |
Filtration module
A purification module is provided comprising a plurality of purification cartridges, a support for the cartridges, a manifold and a bowl. In one embodiment the support for the cartridges has two pitched partial screw threads on opposing surfaces which mate with pitched screw flights on the manifold when the partial screw threads are rotated into the screw flights. The support includes fluid passageways for directing filtered fluid from the filtration cartridges, through the support and into the manifold. In another embodiment, a purification module is provided comprising a purification cartridge, a manifold and a bowl. The purification cartridge has two pitched partial screw threads on opposing surfaces of the cartridge outlet which mate with screw flights on the manifold when the partial screw threads are rotated into the mating screw flights. |
| US09056268B2 |
Liquid filtration media, filter elements and methods
A filter and filter media configured and arranged for placement in a fuel stream is disclosed. The filter and filter media allow for filtering of liquid fuels, such as diesel fuel. In certain embodiments the filter media includes a media fiber (such as glass) and a binder fiber (such as bicomponent) that combine to create a media structure having low solidity and relatively low compressibility, and which contain a pore structure that avoids premature fouling of the filter by fuel degradation products. |
| US09056264B2 |
Biocompatible tubing for liquid chromatography systems
A biocompatible tube that can be used in a liquid chromatography system is described. The tube can have flanged or straight ends, and can be used in conjunction with one or more fitting, assembly. |
| US09056262B2 |
Pressure-less ozonated Di-water (DIO3) recirculation reclaim system
The invention provides, in one aspect, a system for recirculating ozonated liquid. The system includes a contactor including at least two inlets and at least two outlets. The contactor is in fluid communication with a first liquid source at a first contactor inlet and a second liquid source at a second contactor inlet, and the second contactor inlet receives gas that purges at least a portion of gas from liquid received at the first contactor inlet. The purged gas exits the contactor at a first contactor outlet. The contactor is in fluid communication with the second liquid source at a second contactor outlet, and the contactor drains at least a portion of the liquid in the contactor, the drained liquid exiting the contactor at the second contactor outlet. The contactor includes a third inlet in fluid communication with the first liquid source, the third inlet allowing the first liquid source to release liquid at an ambient pressure. |
| US09056257B2 |
Fantasy game system and method for player selection and scoring
A first list of available players is provided to each individual user who then selects a first fantasy lineup, where selections by another individual user does not preclude other individual users from also selecting the same player. First fantasy lineups are received from each individual user, the fantasy lineups comprising one or more players selected from the first list of available players. Each individual user may provide a replacement lineup prior to the end of a game. A subsequent list of available players is provided to each user and does not include players from the first fantasy lineup. Subsequent fantasy lineups from each individual user are received comprising only players selected from the subsequent list of available players. None of the players of the first fantasy lineup for an individual user is included in any subsequent fantasy lineup of the individual user. |
| US09056252B2 |
Highly interactive online multiplayer video games
Latency compensation is performed during play of a multiplayer video game over a network. A first system includes a first estimator, a first player, and a first game object controlled by movement of the first player, and a second system includes at least a second player and a second game object controlled by movement of the second player. The first estimator receives data values characterizing delayed states of the second system via the network. Based on the received data values, the first estimator estimates a latency-compensated state of the second game object using a physics model of the second game object and a behavior model of the second player. The behavior model provides a representation of how the second player interacts with the video game relative to the first player. The first player is enabled to interact with the video game with compensated latency. |
| US09056251B2 |
Method of and system for conducting multiple contests of skill with a single performance
A method and system for conducting multiple competitions of skill for a single performance are described herein. User generated competition groups and system generated competition groups allow users to participate in multiple competitions at once based on answering the same questions or making the same selections related to a single event. The users are informed of each competition either via email, text message or when logging into the network via a website. The users select which competition groups to join. After joining the desired groups, users then make their selections related to the event which are transmitted to the network where results are tabulated and transmitted back to the users. The results are separated based on each competition group, so that users can continually know where they stand in each separate competition. With multiple competition groups, users are able to have varying success from the same performance in multiple competitions. |
| US09056249B2 |
Device and method for a streaming video game
A streaming music based video game and device for the generation of the same. The device receives a transmission stream through a cable, satellite, wireless, or other communications system with audiovisual information and game data. The device generates a music based video game from the audiovisual information and game data and provides the audiovisual information and video game information to a display. |
| US09056247B2 |
System and method for efficient character animation
A system and method for producing realistic computer character based animation, for example for computer games, by decomposing each character into a plurality of elements, preparing low resolution approximations of at least some elements for constructing a three dimensional approximation of the character and then applying and transforming one or more sprites to the approximations of the elements. |
| US09056246B2 |
Dynamic reverse engineering
A computer-implemented method of reverse engineering items in a computer game, including: selecting a first loot item; selecting a reverse engineering tool; placing the first loot item in the reverse engineering tool; and implementing a reverse engineering function on the reverse engineering tool. Keywords include MMO, crafting, reverse engineer, and custom modifier. |
| US09056244B2 |
Gaming apparatus incorporating targeted haptic feedback
A gaming apparatus includes a processor, a display device with a video display and a touchscreen, and a bezel adjacent to the display device which has regions capable of providing haptic feedback. The haptic feedback can be provided to a specific region of the bezel as well as a transparent overlay which is positioned over a button on the touchscreen. The apparatus may have sensors allowing for haptic feedback to be targeted based on data detected by the sensors. Additionally, virtual input buttons can be displayed and repositioned on the touchscreen in response to sensor data. |
| US09056242B2 |
Unique board game simulating putting make-up on girls sketch pads
The board game that allows girls be the first one to complete the makeover of their chosen girl on the sketch pad. Players move around the board trying to land on the designated spots to color or apply make-up to their girl. The first one to finish (brows, eye shadow, blush, lips and earrings), and get tiara without having the facemask on wins the game. |
| US09056239B2 |
Assembly including a gliding board and a device for retaining an article of footwear
An assembly including a gliding board and a device for retaining an article of footwear on the board, the device extending longitudinally from a rear end to a front end, the board having a receiving zone provided to receive the retaining device longitudinally in relation to the board. The assembly includes a wedge device which inclines the retaining device longitudinally in relation to the board, so that the retaining device is angled downwardly from the front end to the rear end. |
| US09056238B2 |
Shin guard strap
Aspects of the present invention relate to a shin guard construction having a shin guard and a strap. The strap may provide a number of adjustments, such as adjusting a vertical position of strap attachment to the shin guard, a length of the strap, and/or a position of a portion of the strap in both a horizontal and/or a vertical location on a wearer's leg. Further, the strap may have an upwardly inclined orientation relative to a horizontal plane extending through the shin guard. The orientation of the strap in an upward direction may be a result of a location and/or orientation of one or more fasteners. Additionally, the orientation of the strap may be a result of the size and/or shape of the strap. |
| US09056230B2 |
Composite golf club head with improved sound
A composite golf club head with improved sound characteristics is disclosed herein. More specifically, the present invention relates to a golf club head that utilizes a unique composite type material having a low damping coefficient; creating more discretionary weight to optimize performance without comprising the sound of the golf club head. Depending on the amount of discretionary weight desired, the present invention could replace parts of the crown, the sole, the striking face, or even all three of the above referenced components with a low-damping composite material to improve the performance. The low-damping composite material used in accordance with the current invention may generally have a damping loss factor (η) of less than about 0.02. |
| US09056229B2 |
Piece of sports equipment
The invention relates to a piece of sports equipment which is subject to a shock-like load. In a piece of sports equipment in accordance with the invention, an elongated support element is present which is at least regionally inwardly hollow. It can, for example, be an at least almost complete baseball bat or also only a part region at which a handle of a piece of sports equipment is present. At least one hollow space in which metallic and/or ceramic hollow bodies are present is present in the support element. In the piece of sports equipment, the support element can form the outer skin or at least a part thereof. |
| US09056221B2 |
Exercise machine with weight plate stack alignment feature
User-manipulated exercise equipment of the type utilizing a weight-plate stack comprises a stack of weight plates, of which a user-selected portion moves as a unit along a pair of guide rods in response to an exercise movement by the user. The selected portion of the stack moves with virtually no cross-wise (i.e., lateral) shifting among the plates and virtually no friction between the moving portion of the stack and the guide rods because (1) a keystone bushing below the weight plate stack provides virtually error free alignment with the guide rods by setting the non-selected portion of the stack at a highly accurate “home” position that resets the moving stack if it has shifted laterally during movement, even if that shift is very slight, and (2) the guide rod holed in the weight plates carry bushings which align with the bushings of the adjacent weight plates to prevent the plates within the moving portion of the stack from shifting laterally with respect to each other and thereby contacting a guide rod. Preferably, the topmost weight plate in the moving portion of the stack carries bushings forming a smaller gap with the guide rods than the bushings of the remaining weight plates so that, at worst, only the topmost plate will contact a guide rod resulting in negligible friction. |
| US09056216B1 |
Jump rope
A weighted jump rope includes an elongated cord having a first end, an opposing second end, an intermediate portion and an axial bore extending from an opening on the first end to an opening on the second end. The axial bore is filled with a predetermined amount of weighted material, such as sand. A dowel received within each opening forms an expanded portion that retains a bearing disc on each end of the cord. Each bearing disc engages an internal bearing surface within a rotating handle assembly that prevents the cord from binding or contorting as it encircles an exerciser. |
| US09056213B2 |
Heat sensitive protective barrier and a method for its use
Protective barriers are commonly installed beneath ceilings when construction work is performed either on these ceilings or on the roofs located above them. These protective barriers can be comprised entirely of one material or of different materials connected by seams. Some or all of these materials can be designed to fail when subjected to temperatures above a certain temperature range causing melting or some other destructive process to occur to these materials. These failures can create access points from the ceiling through the protective barrier to areas below being protected by the barrier, which can allow water from a fire suppression system, typically located near the ceiling, to reach a fire located below the protective barrier. |
| US09056212B2 |
Systems and methods of property security
Systems and devices for and methods of energy management, property security and fire hazard prevention are provided. The systems, devices and methods are able to be centralized, computerized, and expandable. The devices and systems are capable of automatically reducing energy consumptions and minimizing losses of property caused by fire, theft, and vandalism using monitoring sensors (e.g., occupancy sensors) and computer software and equipments. |
| US09056210B2 |
Public building and school evacuation system
A building evacuation system designed for the occupants of a building to escape pursuit or peril, such as fire, violence, natural catastrophe, or other emergency utilizing a deployed emergency exit incorporated into a building's exterior wall, such as a hinged latched window having an emergency exit deployment actuator mounted near the emergency exit that will simultaneously deploy an inflatable chute at the emergency exit, activate an internal audio and/or visual indicator to a central location that the emergency exit has been deployed, and initiate an automated text or voice message to the appropriate authorities, such as police and/or fire department, that the stated location's emergency exit has been deployed. |
| US09056206B2 |
Adaptable current regulator for delivery of current-based electrical stimulation therapy
A medical electrical stimulator provides selective control of stimulation via a combination of two or more electrodes coupled to respective regulated current paths and one or more electrodes coupled to unregulated current paths. Constant current sources may control the current that is sourced or sunk via respective regulated current paths. An unregulated current path may sink or source current to and from an unregulated voltage source that serves as a reference voltage. Unregulated electrodes may function as unregulated anodes to source current from a reference voltage or unregulated cathodes to sink current to a reference voltage. |
| US09056205B2 |
Compensation current optimization for auditory prosthesis systems
An exemplary system includes an implantable cochlear stimulator implanted within a patient, a short electrode array coupled to the implantable cochlear stimulator and having a plurality of electrodes disposed thereon, and a sound processor communicatively coupled to the implantable cochlear stimulator. The sound processor may direct the implantable cochlear stimulator to apply a main current to a first electrode included in the plurality of electrodes and associated with a first pitch, direct the implantable cochlear stimulator to concurrently apply, during the application of the main current, a compensation current to a second electrode included in the plurality of electrodes and associated with a second pitch, and optimize an amount of the compensation current to result in a target pitch being presented to the patient that is distanced from the first pitch in a pitch direction opposite a pitch direction of the second pitch in relation to the first pitch. |
| US09056204B2 |
Universal implant
A universal implant for an implantable medical device, the universal implant including a plurality of functional components, having a plurality of hardware components disposed in a housing, and an auxiliary component interface disposed in a surface of the housing and configured to electrically connect any one of a plurality of auxiliary components to the hardware components. The universal implant further includes a determinator configured to identify one or more of the auxiliary components, select one or more of the functional components based on the identified auxiliary components, and adapt the selected functional components for operation with the identified auxiliary components. |
| US09056201B1 |
Methods and devices for minimally-invasive delivery of radiation to the eye
Methods and devices for minimally-invasive delivery of radiation to the eye (such as the posterior portion of the eye) including cannulas with afterloading systems for introducing radionuclide brachytherapy sources to the cannulas, for example following insertion and positioning of the cannulas. The afterloaders may house the radionuclide brachytherapy source in a vault and connect to the cannula via a guide tube. The afterloaders can advance and retract the source and ensure accurate placement of the source within the cannula. |
| US09056198B2 |
Low level laser therapy (LLLT) systems and devices
A system includes a LLLT device, with a laser diode and a momentary switch, and a clip device configured to attach to the LLLT device and to press the momentary switch while attached, causing the LLLT device to activate the laser diode. A LLLT device includes a laser diode, a front end from which light radiates when the laser diode is activated, and an eye safety mechanism at the front end. The LLLT device is configured to activate the laser diode when the front end is pressed. |
| US09056195B2 |
Optimization of cranial nerve stimulation to treat seizure disorderse during sleep
A method includes determining sleep cycle information related to a sleep cycle of a patient based on body parameter data. The method also includes adjusting a cranial nerve stimulation parameter based on the sleep cycle information. |
| US09056193B2 |
Apparatus and method for treating the skin
A device for treating the skin comprises a handpiece assembly having a distal end and a proximal end, a cartridge comprising an interior cavity and a tip on the distal end of the handpiece assembly. The handpiece assembly includes a fluid delivery conduit and a waste conduit. In addition, the cartridge is coupled to the handpiece assembly with the interior cavity of the cartridge being in fluid communication with the fluid delivery conduit. Further, the tip is configured to contact the skin. The tip comprises a peripheral lip, a first opening in fluid communication with the fluid delivery conduit, a second opening in fluid communication with the waste conduit and an abrasive element. The first opening, the second opening and the abrasive element of the tip are generally positioned within the peripheral lip. |
| US09056191B2 |
Apparatus and method for removing occlusive tissue
A tissue treatment apparatus for restoring patency in a body vessel is provided. The tissue treatment apparatus includes an elongated catheter dimensioned for insertion within a body vessel having an at least partial occlusion. Proximal and distal expandable segments are mounted to the elongated catheter and are positionable adjacent the occlusion and are configured to transition from a first condition to a second expanded condition. A mesh in operative engagement with the proximal and distal expandable segments is expandable radially outwardly from the catheter upon corresponding transition of the proximal and distal expandable segments to the second condition. The mesh includes a conductive material adapted to transmit electrosurgical energy to treat and facilitate removal of the occlusion, to thereby assist in restoring patency within the body vessel. |
| US09056190B2 |
Balloon catheter tapered shaft having high strength and flexibility and method of making same
Method of making a balloon catheter includes melt-extruding a thermoplastic polymeric material into a tube, cooling the extruded tube, placing the extruded tube within a capture member and biaxially orienting the polymeric material of the extruded tube while simultaneously tapering at least a section of the extruded tube by radially expanding the extruded tube with pressurized media in the tube lumen and axially expanding the extruded tube with an external load applied on at least one end of the tube as an external heat supply traverses longitudinally from a first end to a second end of the extruded tube in the capture member, wherein an overall axial load on the tubing is varied as at least a section of the tube is heated. The method includes cooling the expanded tube to form a tapered biaxially oriented nonporous thermoplastic polymer tubular member and sealingly securing a balloon proximate a distal end of the tubular member. |
| US09056187B2 |
Anchor systems and methods
Some embodiments of a medical device anchor system include an anchor device that receives a medical instrument (such as a catheter or the like) and secures the instrument in place relative to a skin penetration point. In some circumstances, the anchor device may allow the anchor device to be used after medical instrument is already in place without the need for a second penetration point for the anchor device. |
| US09056185B2 |
Expandable catheter system for fluid injection into and deep to the wall of a blood vessel
A catheter-based/intravascular fluid injection system with application to renal denervation includes a multiplicity of needles which expand open around a central axis to engage the wall of a blood vessel, or the wall of the left atrium, allowing the injection of a cytotoxic and/or neurotoxic solution for ablating conducting tissue, or nerve fibers around the ostium of the pulmonary vein, or circumferentially in or just beyond the outer layer of the renal artery. The expandable delivery system includes expandable components that facilitate positioning of a multiplicity of injection needles against the inside wall of a blood vessel from where they can be advanced. The system also includes means to limit and/or adjust the depth of penetration of the ablative fluid into the tissue of the wall of the targeted blood vessel. |
| US09056180B2 |
Tip with encapsulated marker band
A catheter tip assembly comprises a marker band and a catheter tip. The catheter tip has an inner lumen therethrough and an outer portion and an inner portion with the marker band disposed therebetween. |
| US09056179B2 |
Hose connection system for narially sensitive diagnostic devices
Hose connection system for narially sensitive diagnostic devices. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are systems including a test device and a nasal cannula. The test device includes a first port configured to sense an attribute of airflow, and a second port configured to sense an attribute of airflow. The nasal cannula includes a first hose configured to fluidly couple on a device-end to the first port (and the first hose configured to fluidly couple between the first port and a first naris of a patient), and a second hose configured to fluidly couple on a device-end to the second port (and the second hose configured to fluidly couple between the second port and a second naris of the patient). The nasal cannula is configured such that the first hose only couples to the first port and the second hose only couples to the second port. |
| US09056178B2 |
Respiratory mask sealing interface
A sealing interface includes an inner cushion and an outer sheath. The outer sheath substantially seals against the facial contours of the user. The inner cushion and the outer sheath each have a nasal bridge region, left and right cheek regions and either one of an upper lip region or a chin region. In use these regions are aligned with the corresponding nasal bridge region, left and right cheek regions and either the upper lip region or the chin region of a user. The inner cushion includes a hinged region. The hinged region is adapted to flex substantially independently of the inner cushion cheek regions. |
| US09056177B2 |
Respiratory interface with flexing faceplate
Various embodiments of a respiratory interface device, such as a mask (10), that includes a first substantially rigid portion (14), a second substantially rigid portion (16) and a connecting member (18) that is structured to flexibly connect the first and second substantially rigid portions. The flexible connection provides an effective fit of the respiratory interface device against the user's face. |
| US09056175B2 |
Device for dispensing a plurality of unitary doses of dry powder, and inhaler comprising such device
Device for dispensing a plurality of unitary doses (2) of dry powder, includes at least one support comprising conduits each defining a flow path for an airstream carrying one of the unitary dose (2), the support having first (26) and second (27) members secured to one another so that a first conduit portion (29) of the first member faces a second conduit portions (43) of the second member to define one of the conduits, and a first separation portion (30) of the first member faces a second separation portions (45) of the second member, the support comprising a plurality of barrier-forming elements (31, 46) each arranged between corresponding first (30) and second (45) separation portions to prevent dry powder from passing from one of the conduits to one of the adjacent conduits. |
| US09056174B2 |
Medicament-containing dispenser provided with a display for presenting indicia to a user
A medicament-containing dispenser, such as an inhaler, comprises an outlet for dispensing medicament, e.g. a mouthpiece or a nasal adaptor. The dispenser also comprises a display for presenting indicia to a user. The dispenser further comprises an outlet cover movable between a first position in which it covers the outlet and a second position in which the outlet is uncovered, wherein, when the outlet cover is in the first position, indicia is visible in the display, and wherein, when the outlet cover is in the second position, indicia is out of sight to the user. |
| US09056168B2 |
System, method and article for controlling the dispensing of insulin
A system and method for automatically adjusting parameters for predicting blood glucose levels and/or controlling the dispensing of insulin. In one embodiment, the system is a stand-alone system. In one embodiment, the system is part of a system for controlling the dispensing of insulin. |
| US09056167B2 |
Method and device for drug delivery
An apparatus and a system for controlling and/or managing administration of a drug to a body of a patient. The apparatus includes a drug infusion device configured to deliver drug at a predetermined location in the body of the patient, at least one sensor disposed in the drug infusion device and configured to measure a. corresponding property related to the patient and selected from the group consisting of physiological properties, biochemical properties, environmental properties and drug-related properties, a controller disposed in the drug infusion device and configured to receive from the at least one sensor data representative of the measured corresponding property and based on the received data, determine a drug delivery rate. The drug delivery device is configured to deliver the drug to the body of the patient based on the determined drug delivery rate. |
| US09056166B2 |
Infusion pump and method to enhance long term medication delivery accuracy
An infusion pump is provided for pumping fluid though an administration set at a constant flow rate. The pump includes a pumping mechanism for pumping fluid and operates at a pulse frequency, and a controller controls the pulse frequency. Additionally, the pump has one or more sensors configured for measuring at least one characteristic value relating to a status of the infusion pump. The controller is configured for causing the pumping mechanism to operate at a first pulse frequency, and the one or more sensors measure the characteristic value intermittently. When the measured characteristic value meets a threshold value, the controller causes the pumping mechanism to operate at a second pulse frequency different from the first pulse frequency. |
| US09056165B2 |
Intelligent therapy recommendation algorithm and method of using the same
An algorithm and method of making intelligent therapy recommendations for insulin pump parameters is described. The pump parameters include basal rates, carbohydrate-to-insulin ratios (CIR), and insulin sensitivity factors (ISF). A determination of whether a therapy recommendation should be made is based on comparing an updated recommended change with a threshold. The updated recommended change to the pump parameter is made based on a previous recommended change to the pump parameter and the difference between a current blood glucose value and a targeted blood glucose level. The algorithm and method confirms the therapy recommendation is within safety parameters before displaying the therapy recommendation. |
| US09056164B2 |
Radiopharmaceutical administration methods, fluid delivery systems and components thereof
A fluid path set for a fluid delivery system includes a tube coil that is designed to optimally position one or more volumes of a pharmaceutical within an ionization chamber to measure and prepare a pharmaceutical dose for administration to a patient. The fluid path set includes a medical fluid component having a first tubing section for connection to a source of a medical fluid, a pharmaceutical component having a second tubing section for connection to a source of a pharmaceutical, and a coil assembly which includes the tube coil. The tube coil may be maintained in a desired dimensional geometry by means of a core structure around which the tube coil is positioned. |
| US09056161B2 |
Fluid delivery system with electrochemical sensing of analyte concentration levels
A system and a method for delivering fluid to and sensing analyte levels in the body of the patient are disclosed. The system includes a dispensing apparatus configured to infuse fluid into the body of the patient and a sensing apparatus configured to be in communication with the dispensing apparatus and further configured to detect a level of analyte concentration in the body of the patient. |
| US09056157B2 |
Hybrid biodegradable/non-biodegradable stent, delivery system and method of treating a vascular condition
An intraluminal stent, an intraluminal stent delivery system, and a method of treating a vascular condition. The stent includes a framework composed of a biodegradable material. At least one strut is composed of a non-biodegradable material. The framework is operably attached to the at least one strut. The delivery system includes a catheter and a stent disposed on a portion of the catheter. The stent includes a framework composed of a biodegradable material. The stent further includes at least one strut composed of a non-biodegradable material. The framework is operably attached to the at least one strut. The method includes positioning an intraluminal stent via a catheter within a vessel. The stent includes at least one strut that is composed of a non-biodegradable material and is operably attached to a framework. The framework expands during deployment of the intraluminal stent. The framework is allowed to biodegrade within the vessel. |
| US09056153B2 |
Biocompatible polymers for coating or fabricating implantable medical devices
The present disclosure generally relates to biocompatible polymers for coating or fabricating implantable medical devices and to implantable medical devices having the present biocompatible polymers. The disclosed biocompatible polymers exhibit superior biocompatibility and therefore minimize unwanted immune reaction from a patient into whom a medical device is implanted. |
| US09056150B2 |
Compositions for treating bone defects
In certain described embodiments, implantable medical materials comprise a scaffolding material, a liquid organic binder, and entrapped calcium-containing particles. The medical materials can incorporate an osteoinductive factor such as a protein. The scaffolding material can bind the factor. In additional described embodiments, implantable medical materials include an osteoconductive scaffolding material, an incorporated osteoinductive factor, and a biodegradable barrier material effective to delay release of the factor from the scaffolding material. The scaffolding material can bind the factor. Also described a methods for preparing and implanting the described medical materials. |
| US09056149B2 |
Bodyboard with hull and planar sections
An improved bodyboard and bodyboard shape are presented. The bodyboard includes both a hull section and a planar section formed in the bottom surface of the bodyboard. The bodyboard presented herein provides a hydrodynamically-shaped object that allows a rider to ride waves, typically in a prone or kneeling position on top of at least a portion of the bodyboard. The bodyboard provides the rider more control, speed and maneuverability, without adding substantially to costs to manufacture and maintain the bodyboard. |
| US09056147B2 |
UV disinfection system for needleless connector
A device is presented for disinfecting needleless connectors. The device has a housing that contains a UV light source. The UV light source is operably connected to a power source. The housing has a receptacle configured to selectively receive a shield. The shield has an inner reflective chamber with an internal surface that reflects UV light. In use, the UV light source can illuminate a needleless connector inserted within the shield. |
| US09056146B2 |
Method of treating the inside surfaces of a clean room and treating a rotary beverage bottle blow-molding arrangement and blow-molding beverage bottles from preforms and an arrangement for performing the method
Container-producing arrangement which includes a blow-molding machine and at least one radiation emitter disposed at, on, or adjacent the blow-molding machine in order to sterilize a portion of the blow-molding machine and/or a portion of a housing which surrounds the container-producing arrangement. |
| US09056140B2 |
Pharmaceutical compound
Provided is a compound comprising: (a) a first component capable of binding to ER+ cell receptors; and (b) a second component; wherein the second component is a ribosome inactivating toxin and is conjugated to the first component. |
| US09056136B2 |
Weakly basic 2-nitroimidazoles for the non-invasive detection of tissue hypoxia
The present invention incorporates weakly basic substituents (pKa about 8 or greater) such as pyrrolidine, piperidine, piperazine and azapane moieties in halogenated 2-nitromidazoles for the non-invasive detection of cellular hypoxia in normal and malignant tissues. The compounds of the invention can be used in 18F positron emission tomography, 19F magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and 19F magnetic resonance imaging. |
| US09056133B2 |
Pharmaceutical kit and method for treating cancer
This invention is related to the field of cancer treatment, more specifically to gene therapy in combination with a suitable chemotherapeutic agent. The present invention is related to a new oncolytic virus, which is able to inhibit the growth of malignant tumors or is a treatment of hyperproliferative mammalian cells, or is a treatment of cancer. The oncolytic virus works in combination with a suitable chemotherapeutic agent. More specifically, the present invention provides a pharmaceutical kit comprising an oncolytic adenovirus and a chemotherapeutic agent, and a method for the treatment of cancer. |
| US09056129B2 |
Precision-guided nanoparticle systems for drug delivery
A method of preparing multifunctionalized nanoparticles involves using a modular system of half-linkers to attach functional moieties that serve to deliver the nanoparticles to a desired target, exert an effect at the target, or track the nanoparticles within a cell or an animal. The modular chemistry of the half-linker system permits the custom design and synthesis of functionalized nanoparticles bearing multiple groups and therefore results in precise delivery to desired cell types and intracellular locations. The functionalized nanoparticles can be used to treat or diagnose a variety of medical conditions, including neoplastic diseases, infectious diseases, and chronic diseases. |
| US09056128B2 |
Adjuvant used in dielectric heating-assisted cancer treatment, and cancer treatment method
There is provided an adjuvant capable of enlarging an ablation area and reducing ablation unevenness in a dielectric heating-assisted cancer treatment such as radiofrequency ablation used for treatment of hepatic cancer. The adjuvant includes a conductive substance such as a metal element (e.g., iron) and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier of lipid dispersion, polymer solution or polymer dispersion. |
| US09056126B2 |
Hydrogel formulations
A polymeric prodrug composition including a hydrogel, a biologically active moiety and a reversible prodrug linker. The prodrug linker covalently links the hydrogel and the biologically active moiety at a position and the hydrogel has a plurality of pores with openings on its surface. The diameter of the pores is larger than that of the biologically active moiety at least at all points of the pore between at least one of the openings and the position of the biologically active moiety. |
| US09056124B2 |
Method for the treatment of tuberculosis
A method for preventing and treating one or more disease states including the steps of altering the diet of an individual and then administering a drug to the individual. Plasma vitamin C level is reduced from a first level to a second level that is lower than the first level, such that a pharmacological response of the body of the individual to a drug at the first level is different from the pharmacological response of the body of said individual to the drug at the second level. |
| US09056123B2 |
Lactobacilli with anti-oxidant action
The present invention relates to specific Lactobacillus strains with an anti-oxidant effect. |
| US09056120B2 |
Methods of treating myelodysplastic syndromes with a combination therapy using lenalidomide and azacitidine
Methods of treating, preventing and/or managing myelodysplastic syndromes are disclosed. Specific methods encompass the administrations of 3-(4-amino-1-oxo-1,3-dihydro-isoindol-2-yl)-piperidin-2,6-dione in combination with 5-azacytidine. |
| US09056118B2 |
Extract for preventing of treating thrombotic diseases
An extract for preventing or treating thrombotic diseases, particularly, an extract of at least one of leeches and earthworms having a molecular weight of no more than 5,800 daltons is provided, wherein the extract includes 15% to 38% amino acid, 40% to 60% saccharide and 0.3% to 1% hypoxanthine. Processes for preparation, pharmaceutical compositions and uses thereof are also provided. Compared to conventional arts, the extract has safety greatly improved and drug actions maintained and even improved. |
| US09056117B2 |
Herbal formulation for wound healing
The present invention pertains to a herbal formulation with highly potent wound healing properties, in humans and animals. The composition consists of aqueous extracts of Azadirachta indica, in a mixture of natural oils along with herbs viz. Berberis aristata, Curcuma longa, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Jasminum officinale, Picrorhiza kurrooa, Pongamia pinnata, Rubia folia, Saussurea lappa, Terminalia chebula, Trichosanthes dioica, Capsicum and Stellata wild in well-defined ratios. The invention also includes a process for preparing the formulation by extracting the water-soluble components from bark of Azadirachta indica. |
| US09056116B2 |
Liquid ganaxolone formulations and methods for the making and use thereof
In certain embodiments, the invention is directed to composition comprising stable particles comprising ganaxolone, wherein the volume weighted median diameter (D50) of the particles is from about 50 nm to about 500 nm. |
| US09056115B2 |
Androgen treatment in females
Method of using an androgen, such as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) or testosterone, to improve human folliculogenesis. The method includes measuring a baseline follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) level of the human female, and when the baseline FSH level is below about 40.0 mIU/ml, administering about 75 milligrams of the androgen per day to the female for at least four months to treat ovarian follicles in at least one ovary of the female to improve human folliculogenesis during the at least four months. The present invention further is directed to a method of restoring the ovarian environment of an older human female to that of a younger human female. The method includes administering about 75 milligrams of an androgen per day to the female for at least four months. |
| US09056114B2 |
Chemical induction of lactation
The present invention describes a method of inducing lactation in non-human mammals by using a single administrations of an estrogen compound, a dopaminergic antagonist, and oxytocin. For example, the estrogen compound may be a long acting composition and is administered at least one week before the dopaminergic antagonist. However, the oxytocin administration may be given the day after the dopaminergic antagonist, after which lactation may begin immediately. Preferred compounds may comprise a non-17β estradiol and domperidone. Such an injection protocol has resulted in the production of commercially viable volumes of milk from transgenic pigs. |
| US09056109B2 |
Compounds and methods for treating multiple sclerosis
The invention described herein pertains to the treatment of multiple sclerosis. In particular, the invention described herein pertains to the treatment of multiple sclerosis using compounds that modulate the action of acrolein. |
| US09056105B2 |
Method for treatment of bone diseases and fractures
Described herein are compounds, compositions, and methods useful for treating bone diseases or defects. Also described herein are compounds, compositions and methods for treating bone diseases or defects by inhibiting phosphatase complexes. |
| US09056102B2 |
VEGF-activated trail ligands
The present invention provides fusion proteins comprising an extracellular domain of a VEGF receptor and a death ligand. The fusion proteins bind to VEGF and to death receptors on tumor cells thereby inhibiting VEGF activation of VEGF receptors and inducing apoptosis in the tumor cells. Fusion proteins of the present invention are useful for inducing apoptosis and cytotoxic effects in cells, treating cancer and diseases or disorders related to unregulated angiogenesis and/or vasculogenesis. Thus, this invention further provides methods for treating angiogenesis related diseases using the fusion proteins, polynucleotides encoding the fusion proteins, vectors containing the polynucleotides, pharmaceutical compositions and kits containing the fusion proteins or the polynucleotides encoding the fusion proteins. |
| US09056096B2 |
Hyaluronic acid decomposition-promoting factor and inhibitor thereof
The present invention is directed to KIAA1199, which is a novel factor involved in decomposition of hyaluronic acid, and to use thereof. More specifically, the invention is directed to a hyaluronic acid decomposition-promoting agent containing the KIAA1199 gene and a protein encoded by the gene; to a hyaluronic acid decomposition-inhibiting agent characterized by inhibiting the activity or expression thereof (including an siRNA or a monoclonal antibody); and to a method for screening a novel hyaluronic acid decomposition-controlling agent, in which the method contains employing the expression of KIAA1199 as an index. |
| US09056092B2 |
Hemostatic bioabsorbable device with polyethylene glycol binder
A hemostatic pad comprising a bioabsorbable scaffolding material; a lyophilized thrombin powder, a lyophilized fibrinogen powder, and a meltable binder powder, with all powders disposed on the bioabsorbable scaffolding material. A meltable binder such as PEG bonds the lyophilized thrombin powder and the lyophilized fibrinogen powder to the bioabsorbable scaffolding material for improved friability, wettability and performance in a use, such as for hemostatic treatment or sealing at a wound site. |
| US09056087B2 |
Methods of healing or preventing inflammation, damage and other changes that occur prior to, during or immediately after a myocardial event with thymosin beta 4, analogues, isoforms and other derivatives
Inflammation or damage associated with myocardial events is treated or prevented by administration of an angiogenesis-inducing, anti-inflammatory peptide such as Thymosin β4, an isoform of Thymosin β4 or oxidized Thymosin β4. |
| US09056086B2 |
Pharmaceutical compositions comprising DGLA, 15-HEPE, and/or 15-HETrE and methods of use thereof
The present disclosure provides compositions comprising fatty acids, or derivatives thereof (e.g., C1-C4 esters) including, for example, DGLA, 15-OHEPA and/or 15-HETrE, used singly or in combination with anti-bacterial agents for the treatment of disease and/or disorders such as acne or atopic dermatitis. |
| US09056081B2 |
Compositions for treating pseudomonas infection
The invention relates to a HNK-I mimetic peptide or a polypeptide comprising such HNK-I mimetic peptide for treating or preventing a Pseudomonas infection, in particular an infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The invention further relates to the use of a HNK-I mimetic peptide or a polypeptide comprising such HNK-I mimetic peptide for the preparation of a pharmaceutical composition for treating or preventing a Pseudomonas infection. The invention also relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising a HNK-I mimetic peptide or a polypeptide comprising such HNK-I mimetic peptide, wherein the composition is for treating or preventing a Pseudomonas infection. |
| US09056080B2 |
Use of an agent that restores tissue perfusion and oxygenation
The presently disclosed subject matter provides methods for increasing perfusion in hypoxic regions of tissues in subjects. Also provided are methods for treating diseases and/or disorders associated with hypoxia in subjects, methods for increasing sensitivity of tumors to radiation and/or chemotherapy treatments, methods for delaying tumor growth in subjects, and methods for inhibiting tumor blood vessel growth in subjects. In some embodiments, the presently disclosed methods involve administering to subjects in need thereof a first composition selected from the group consisting of a nitrosylated hemoglobin and an agent that induces nitrosylation of endogenous hemoglobin in the subject and a second composition comprising a hyperoxic gas. In some embodiments, the presently disclosed methods also include treating a tumor with radiation therapy, chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, immunotherapy, or combinations thereof. Also provided are inhalable gases that can be employed in the presently disclosed methods. |
| US09056079B2 |
Molecules interfering with binding of calbindin to inositol monophosphatase for the treatment of mood disorders
This invention provides derivatives of dodecapeptide ISSIKEKYPSHS (SEQ ID NO: 11) which interfere with binding of calbindin to inositol monophosphatase, and their use in treating mood disorders. |
| US09056077B2 |
Extract of Asplenium nidus L
An extract of Asplenium nidus L. includes pyropheophorbide a methyl ester (C34H36N4O3), pheophorbide a methyl ester (C35H36N4O5), 1-linleoyl-3-linolenoyl-glycerol (C39H66O5), 1-linleoyl-2,3-dipalmitoyl-rac-glycerol (C53H98O6) and 1,3-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycerol (C35H68O5). The extract of Asplenium nidus L. is obtained by using a method including steps of: solvent extraction, using an solvent to extract an Asplenium nidus L. sample and to obtain an extract, with a w/v ratio between the solvent and the Asplenium nidus L. sample being 50˜60 mg/ml; and column chromatography, fractionating the extract with water and ethanol as eluent to obtain several fractions including fraction a to fraction i, and further evaporating and lyophilizing fraction b, c, d or their combination to obtain an extract of Asplenium nidus L. |
| US09056074B2 |
Orally bioavailable stilbenoids—compositions and therapeutic applications thereof
A novel, bioavailable and safe stilbenoid 3,5-dimethoxy-3,4′-dihydroxystilbene represented by STR#1 with an unexpected enhanced ability to prevent the accumulation of lipids accompanying the terminal differentiation of adipocytes, thereby inhibiting adipogenesis, and nutraceutical and cosmeceutical compositions comprising 3,5-dimethoxy-3,4′-dihydroxystilbene useful for anti-obesity and anti-cellulite therapy, are disclosed. Further the enhanced SIRT-1 activation ability of 3,5-dimethoxy-3,4′-dihydroxystilbene represented by STR#1 and 2,3′,5′,6-tetrahydroxy-trans-stilbene represented by STR#II are disclosed. The enhancement of SIRT-1 polypeptide activity of the said compounds is unexpectedly much higher than resveratrol or its natural analog pterostilbene. Sirtuin modulating compositions comprising an orally bioavailable SIRT-1 enhancing compounds (i) 3,5-dimethoxy-3,4′-dihydroxystilbene represented by STR#I and (ii) 2,3′,5′,6-tetrahydroxy-trans-stilbene represented by STR#II are also disclosed. An additional embodiment, also discloses the enhanced anti-Propionibacterium acnes activity of 3,5-dimethoxy-3,4′-dihydroxystilbenes represented by STR#I and compositions thereof. |
| US09056070B2 |
Autologous biological cancer vaccine
The present disclosure relates to an autologous biological cancer vaccine and to a method for preparing the same. The vaccine of the present application is a biological vaccine obtained from overexpressed proteins in the serum of cancer patients, proteins to which have been added immunological adjuvants such as an attenuated virus DNA and amino acids in order to cause an immune response, blocking tumor cells. The preparation method includes obtaining the antigen associated with the tumor as well as the vaccine preparation with attenuated virus DNA, combining the components under conditions that have been determined by experimentation, filtration and refrigeration. |
| US09056068B2 |
Vaccine and methods of use against Strongyloide stercoralis infection
The polynucleotide encoding the SSIR gene from the nematode Strongyloides stercoralis is provided, along with the polypeptide encoded by the SSIR gene. It was found that when mice were immunized with the SSIR polypeptide vaccine, it provided immunity to mice which were implanted with Strongyloides stercoralis L3 implants. Methods for making the SSIR protein, recombinant vectors encoding the SSIR gene, a vaccine made from the SSIR protein, and methods of use are also provided. |
| US09056065B1 |
Hair composite
One or more hair care products and/or techniques for creating such hair care products are provided. For example, a hair care product comprises one or more carriers, such as a coconut oil, an evening primrose, and/or a hemp oil. The hair care product comprises one or more oils, such as a lavender oil, a tee tree oil, a nettle leaf oil, a horsetail extract, a clary sage oil, a rosemary oil, a basil oil, a lemongrass oil, a cypress oil, a cinnamon leaf oil, and/or a roman chamomile. The hair care product may be used for restructuring (e.g., relaxing) a natural growth pattern of hair. The hair care product may stimulate hair follicles so that protein and/or moisturizing portions of the hair care product may seep into the scalp for growing and sustaining healthy hair. The hair care product may treat or mitigate eczema, dryness, breakage, sores, and/or fungal bacteria. |
| US09056064B2 |
Conditioner composition
A composition that rejuvenates hair by providing numerous functions for healthy, beautiful hair. The conditioner composition works best after shampooing the hair, whereby oil, grime, and debris are removed and the conditioner can maximize contact with the hair. The composition includes moisturizers that help retain moisture in the hair. The composition also serves as a reconstructor, penetrating the outer cuticle layer of the hair to the cortex and medulla layers of the hair, strengthening its structure through polymer crosslinking. The composition works as an acidity regulator. The composition includes heat absorbing polymers for shielding the hair against excessive heat caused by blow-dryers, curling irons, and hot rollers. The composition includes a surfactant to provide an additional layer to the hair for glossiness. The composition includes vitamins and nutrients efficacious for nourishing the hair follicle and hair strand itself. |
| US09056060B2 |
Non-reactive adhesive useful in transdermal drug delivery system
An adhesive composition which lacks functional groups containing reactive hydrogen moieties and contains no post-polymerization chemical crosslinker finds use in transdermal drug delivery systems. The invention enables the administration of drugs containing a reactive functional group, which drugs have heretofore not been able to be administered by the transdermal route using conventional acrylic adhesives. |
| US09056059B2 |
Cosmetic neurotoxin compositions and methods
Cosmetic compositions include a Clostridial neurotoxin component and a microsphere component. In certain compositions, the composition includes a botulinum toxin and a plurality of swellable microspheres. The compositions are administered to individuals, by injection and the like, to treat a cosmetic defect of deficiency. |
| US09056058B2 |
Microcapsules with improved shells
Disclosed are microcapsules and methods for preparing and using them, as well as methods for improving various properties of microcapsules like impermeability. |
| US09056057B2 |
Nanocrystals, compositions, and methods that aid particle transport in mucus
Nanocrystals, compositions, and methods that aid particle transport in mucus are provided. In some embodiments, the compositions and methods involve making mucus-penetrating particles (MPP) without any polymeric carriers, or with minimal use of polymeric carriers. The compositions and methods may include, in some embodiments, modifying the surface coatings of particles formed of pharmaceutical agents that have a low water solubility. Such methods and compositions can be used to achieve efficient transport of particles of pharmaceutical agents though mucus barriers in the body for a wide spectrum of applications, including drug delivery, imaging, and diagnostic applications. In certain embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition including such particles is well-suited for administration routes involving the particles passing through a mucosal barrier. |
| US09056056B2 |
Processing for dispersing amino acids
A coated proteinaceous material can be produced by contacting the proteinaceous material with de-oiled phospholipids or mixtures thereof containing less than 20% triglycerides. The coating has between 0.1 and 1.5% by weight of the total proteinaceous material, of de-oiled lecithin. The proteinaceous material is hydrophobic, especially amino acids having a hydrophobicity of higher than 1.0 kJ/mol. In particular, the amino acids are leucine, isoleucine, valine, phenylalanine, tryptophan and/or methionine. The coated amino acids can be incorporated into food products and medicaments. |
| US09056051B2 |
Abuse-resistant controlled-release opioid dosage form
Abuse-resistant, controlled release opioid tablets are a combination containing an opioid antagonist such as naloxone at a level above that needed to suppress the euphoric effect of the opioid, if the combination were crushed to break the controlled release properties causing the opioid and opioid antagonist to be released as a immediate release product as a single dose. The controlled release nature of the table prevents the accumulation of orally effective amounts of opioid antagonist when taken normally. The opioid antagonist is contained in a controlled-release matrix and released, over time, with the opioid. |
| US09056050B2 |
Enzyme delivery systems and methods of preparation and use
This invention relates to coated digestive enzyme preparations and enzyme delivery systems and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the preparations. This invention further relates to methods of preparation and use of the systems, pharmaceutical compositions and preparations to treat persons having ADD, ADHD, autism, cystic fibrosis and other behavioral and neurological disorders. |
| US09056049B2 |
Micro-particle comprising a protein extract from sweet potato for extending satiety and controlling blood glucose and lipid levels
The present invention relates to a micro-particle for extending satiety and controlling blood glucose and lipid levels, comprising a core having the protein extract from sweet potato, an active ingredient layer coated on the core, and a protection layer coated over the active ingredient layer as an external layer, wherein the protein extract from sweet potato contains trypsin inhibitor and glycoprotein. The micro-particle comprising a protein extract from sweet potato can effectively extend satiety, control blood glucose and lipid levels and increase metabolism effectively. |
| US09056047B2 |
Compositions and methods for delivery of frozen particle adhesives
Certain embodiments disclosed herein relate to compositions, methods, devices, systems, and products regarding frozen particles. In certain embodiments, the frozen particles include materials at low temperatures. In certain embodiments, the frozen particles provide vehicles for delivery of particular agents. In certain embodiments, the frozen particles are administered to at least one biological tissue. |
| US09056044B2 |
Alprostadil and lidocaine treatment of premature ejaculation
Compositions and methods for the treatment of premature ejaculation are provided wherein a composition comprising a vasoactive prostaglandin, a topical anesthetic, a shear-thinning polymeric thickener, a lipophilic component that is selected from the group consisting of an aliphatic C1 to C8 alcohol, an aliphatic C8 to C30 ester, a liquid polyol and a mixture thereof, water and a buffer system that provides a buffered pH value for the composition in the range of about 3 to about 7.4 is administered to the penile meatus. |
| US09056043B2 |
Dental compositions comprising ethylenically unsaturated addition-fragmentation agent
Dental compositions are described comprising an addition-fragmentation agent comprising at least one ethylenically unsaturated terminal group and a backbone unit comprising an α,β-unsaturated carbonyl; at least one monomer comprising at least two ethylenically unsaturated group; and inorganic oxide filler. The addition-fragmentation agent is preferably free-radically cleavable. The addition-fragmentation agent preferably comprises at least two ethylenically unsaturated terminal groups, such as (meth)acTylate groups. In some embodiments, the addition-fragmentation agent has the formula: wherein R1, R2 and R3 are each independently Zm, -Q-, a (hetero)alkyl group or a (hetero)aryl group with the proviso that at least one of R1, R2 and R3 is Zm-Q-; Q is a linking group have a valence of m+1; Z is an ethylenically unsaturated polymerizable group; m is 1 to 6; each X1 is independently —O— or —NR4—, where R4 is H or C1-C4 alkyl; and n is 0 or 1. Also described are dental articles prepared from a dental composition comprising an addition-fragmentation agent and methods of treating a tooth surface. |
| US09056038B1 |
Wheelchair-accessible converted vehicle and method for converting an existing vehicle
A modified OEM vehicle including a modified rear axle with an axle beam moved rearward, a modified exhaust system with the secondary catalytic converter relocated forward of a firewall, and a modified floor. The modified OEM vehicle also includes a body lift kit, a modified rear seat moved rearward in the vehicle, and a lowered air box aligned with an OEM air intake system. The modified rear axle may also include a receptacle enabling a power kneel chain to pass through the axle. Methods for modifying an OEM vehicle include the steps of removing the OEM rear axle, attaching a modified rear axle, repositioning the secondary catalytic converter, and modifying the floor of an interior compartment of the OEM vehicle. Method steps include fabricating a modified rear axle, installing a body lift kit, and lowering the airbox. |
| US09056035B2 |
Manual tractor assembly for tracking wheel chair
A tractor assembly includes a connection unit which is connected between the tractor and the wheel chair. The connection unit includes a fixing member, a top link unit, a bottom link unit and a swing rod so as to form a four-link mechanism. The connection unit includes an engaging unit with an engaging section, and a position unit. The top link unit has a reception hole and the positioning unit has a push rod. When the push rod is located at the first position, the reception hole is closed. When the push rod is located at the second position, the push rod is retracted and the reception hole is exposed. The bottom link unit is pivoted about one end of the swing rod to move the other end of the swing rod to the position of the reception hole, the engaging section is inserted into the reception hole. |
| US09056031B2 |
Disposable wearable absorbent articles with anchoring subsystems
A pant-type disposable wearable absorbent article comprising an absorbent core area, a side, and an anchoring subsystem. The anchoring subsystem includes exactly one side anchoring member. The side anchoring member has a pathway with a front end and a back end. The front end, the back end, or both ends are disposed outside of the absorbent core area. The front end is disposed at a front end longitudinally outboard distance. The back end is disposed at a back end longitudinally outboard distance. The front end longitudinally outboard distance is about equal to the back end longitudinally outboard distance. |
| US09056030B2 |
Sanitary article wearable as pants
A sanitary article wearable as pants comprises a body or chassis 12 with a topsheet 13, a backsheet 14 and an absorbent core 15 interposed between the topsheet 13 and the backsheet 14. The article 10 has opposite extremities provided with closing side panels 16 extending laterally starting from at least one of said opposite extremities. The side panels 16 have proximal margins 160 connected to the body 12 in positions interposed between the topsheet 13 and the backsheet 14. In particular, the above-said proximal margins 160 of the side panels 16 are connected by thermal welding or ultrasound welding 170 to the topsheet 13 and adhesively 190 to the backsheet 14. |
| US09056026B2 |
Transdermal therapeutic system with high rate of utilization of active substance and dosing accuracy
Transdermal therapeutic system for administering at least one active pharmaceutical ingredient which is involatile at room temperature with a daily dose not exceeding 30 mg, comprising a backing layer which is impermeable for the active ingredient and faces away from the skin, an adjoining polymer layer which is remote from the skin and is based on polyisobutylenes with a rate of application of at least 80 g/m2, an adhesive skin-contact layer which is adjacent to the polymer layer remote from the skin and is based on acrylate copolymers with a rate of application of not more than 50 g/m2, and a protective layer which can be detached from the skin-contact layer and is impermeable for the active ingredient. |
| US09056023B2 |
Limb volume accommodation in people with limb amputation
A prosthetic sock monitoring system is disclosed. The sock monitoring system includes a storage device and a data collection unit. The data collection unit is operable to receive data from at least one sensor coupled to a prosthetic sock that is wearable by a patient, and store the received data in the storage device. A prosthetic sock is also disclosed. The sock comprises material shaped to fit over at least a portion of the residual limb of the patient and a thickness adapted for inserting the residual limb into the socket of the prosthesis while the sock is fitted over the residual limb. The sock also comprises one or more of a sock identification unit and a force sensing device. |
| US09056014B2 |
Device and method for fixation for bone or soft tissue deformity of digits
A fixation device comprises a first clamping member having an adjustable clamping collar and a first curved support portion attached to the adjustable clamping collar. The first clamping member is adapted to receive a digit. The first curved support portion is adapted to support an inferior surface of a proximal phalanx of the digit. A distal member is adjustably attachable to the first clamping member. The distal member has a second curved support surface adapted to support an inferior surface of a distal phalanx of the digit and a curved distal end adapted to apply a compressive force in a proximal direction to a distal end of the distal phalanx. |
| US09056013B2 |
Set of femoral implants for a knee prothesis
A set of femoral implants for a knee prosthesis includes at least two femoral implants having different dimensions from each other. Each femoral implant includes an outer face suitable for cooperating with one of a patellar implant and a patella of a patient, an inner face provided with an anchoring feature for anchoring to a bone of the patient, as well as a distal part and an anterior part each defined both on the outer face and the inner face. The set is characterized in that at least the distal parts of the femoral implants are substantially identical irrespective of the dimensions of the femoral implants. |
| US09056012B2 |
Hinged joint system
Methods, systems, and devices for replacement of a joint with a prosthetic system that replicates the natural kinematics of the joint is disclosed. A prosthetic system according to one embodiment includes a tibial component having a tibial plateau and a tibial stem portion, the tibial plateau having a top side and a bottom side, a tibial insert, with a bearing surface, adapted to be positioned on the top side of the tibial plateau, a femoral component having a base portion and a central housing, the femoral component having an axis of extension-flexion rotation, the base portion having a pair of condyles, a mechanical linkage component linking the tibial component with the femoral component and with the tibial insert in between the tibial component and the femoral component, so that there is a center of contact between the condyles and the bearing surface, the mechanical linkage component adapted to allow the center of contact to move posteriorly during flexion, provide for the movement of the axis of extension-flexion rotation in the superior-inferior direction, and allow rotation of the tibial component, the bearing surface, and the femoral component about a superior-inferior axis in order to provide and control the natural kinematics of the knee joint. |
| US09056011B2 |
Disposable orthopedic prosthesis mold
An orthopedic prosthesis mold, including a first housing defining a first cavity therein shaped to form a portion of an orthopedic prosthesis; a second housing coupled to the first housing, the second housing defining a second cavity therein shaped to form a portion of an orthopedic prosthesis; and a reinforcement element attached to at least one of the first or second housings, the reinforcement element resisting deformation of the first and second housings. The reinforcement element may include a member exterior to the first and second cavities, the member spanning across a substantial width of the prosthesis mold. |
| US09056010B2 |
Cup sheath to prevent soft tissue impingement
An acetabular cup and sheath assembly comprises a sheath and an acetabular cup. The sheath is configured to receive the acetabular cup within the sheath. The sheath and acetabular cup together are configured to pass through a surgical wound toward an implantation site. The sheath further comprises a penetration structure for passing the acetabular cup through the sheath when the acetabular cup is proximately close to an implantation site. |
| US09056007B2 |
Tissue modification
A tissue modification apparatus includes a first and a second guide, a first and a second set of mounts, and a first and a second actuator. The first guide defines a first axis, and the second guide defines a second axis intersecting the first axis. The mounts of the first set of mounts are movable relative to one another along the first axis, and the mounts of the second set of mounts are movable relative to one another along the second axis. The first actuator and the second actuator are each settable to a stress load, with the first actuator and the second actuator movable, respectively, along the first axis and the second axis to transmit each respective stress load to a piece of tissue mechanically coupled to the first and second set of mounts. |
| US09056005B2 |
Methods and devices for arytenoid repositioning
Methods and devices for repositioning the arytenoid cartilage of a human subject are disclosed. |
| US09056003B2 |
Tissue graft fixation
A tissue graft fixation device including a body having an upper and lower surface, a first end portion, a second end portion, and an intermediate portion extending between the first and second end portions, the intermediate portion comprising at least two tabs extending transverse to the intermediate portion, the intermediate portion defining at least one hole located between the at least two tabs, and each of the at least two tabs comprising a keel extending transverse to the intermediate portion and including a cutting edge. |
| US09056001B2 |
Method of producing low profile stent and graft combination
Large diameter self-expanding endoprosthetic devices, such as stents and stent grafts for delivery to large diameter vessels, such as the aorta, are disclosed having very small compacted delivery dimensions. Devices with deployed dimensions of 26 to 40 mm or more are disclosed that are compacted to extremely small dimensions of 5 mm or less, enabling percutaneous delivery of said devices without the need for surgical intervention. Compaction efficiencies are achieved by combining unique material combinations with new forms of restraining devices, compaction techniques, and delivery techniques. These inventive devices permit consistent percutaneous delivery of large vessel treatment devices. Additionally, small endoprosthetic devices are disclosed that can be compacted to extremely small dimensions for delivery through catheter tubes of less than 1 mm diameter. |
| US09055991B2 |
Flossing system
A handle has distal and proximal ends and a drive mechanism. Operational components on the handle include ON and OFF controls and a vibrating coupler to create sonic vibrations. A coupling head has a distal and a proximal ends. The proximal end is formed with a coupling recess. A replaceable holder has a central base and two outwardly extending fingers. The fingers have free ends with a piece of floss secured there between. The central base has a shape for coupling to and uncoupling from the coupling head. The length of the floss between the fingers is from 5 to 10 percent greater than the distance between the fingers. A compressible stop is on the base of the holder between the fingers. The remainder of the fingers are devoid of a compressible stop. |
| US09055989B2 |
Low-splash reducing implement for dental applications
The invention is a low-splash dental fluid distribution implement with the ability to evenly wear down tooth decay, diseased tissue, or undesired dentin in oral applications with live patients. The directed multi-beams of pressurized fluid are a combined plurality of individual beams paired in such a manner that the reflected fluid bursts are inwardly directed against each other. This canceling effect prevents damage to the oral tissues of the patient's mouth by curtailing outward bound bursts of fluid arising from the initial directed impact. Also, the outer edges of the strike zone receive a comparable force as that which hits the center. |
| US09055984B2 |
Sternal reconstruction system
A sternal reconstruction system for securing parts of a sternum includes at least one flexible cable with a fused end fitting, at least one parallel fitting piece and at least one ferrule. Optionally, the system includes at least one cannulated screw. Circumferential or parasternal fixation may be brought about by use of the sternal reconstruction system. Also provided is a method for sternal reconstruction utilizing the sternal reconstruction system. Also provided is a kit for sternal reconstruction. |
| US09055983B1 |
Self-locking bone screw receiver
The present invention provides a unique way to provide a self-locking screw opening that has no separate parts. The self-locking feature (20) is formed in the wall (11) of the screw receiver opening (12) and automatically locks a screw (100) from backing out. During insertion of the screw (100) into bone, the screw head (110) passes one or more, preferably two nubs (20) or one or more projections (20) formed into the surface wall (11) of the receiver opening (12), and as the screw (100) is threaded into the bone, the screw head (110) contacts the nubs (20) or projection (20) and the screw (100) is deflected slightly in a direction opposite the nubs (20) or projection (20) allowing the screw head (110) to pass by the nubs (20) or projection (20) locking the screw (100) from backing out. |
| US09055978B2 |
Orthopedic implant rod reduction tool set and method
A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient. |
| US09055972B2 |
Proportional attenuation of radiation in brachytheraphy treatment
Attenuating masks for selective attenuation of radiation, particularly from an x-ray source in brachytherapy, employ materials having atomic number in a specific range, so as to attenuate radiation dose intensity generally proportionally through a range of distance from the source. Some preferred attenuation materials are silver and molybdenum. A set of small masks can be provided for a particular design of catheter that holds a radiation source, each mask having a size and shape to define a different solid angle of masking, so that in a brachytherapy procedure, sensitive tissue such as bone or skin can be protected by proper selection of and positioning of the attenuating mask, to reduce the dose intensity to that tissue. |
| US09055970B2 |
Skin graft preparation device
A skin graft mesher including a cutting roller and a guide roller rotatably mounted to a fixture. A skin graft may be advanced through the mesher between the rollers to form a pattern of perforations in the skin graft. The cutting roller includes cutting rings disposed on an axle and rotatable therewith. The cutting roller further includes a tissue clearing structure positioned between adjacent cutting rings with the axle extending through the tissue clearing structure and rotatable relative to the tissue clearing structure. The tissue clearing structure may clear tissue from between adjacent cutting rings during operation of the skin graft mesher. The tissue clearing structure may be eccentrically rotated about the axle between adjacent cutting rings with the tissue clearing structure extending radially outward beyond the outer diameter of the cutting ring around less than the entire outer circumference of the cutting ring. |
| US09055968B2 |
Liquid injection device
A liquid injection device includes: a chamber which supply of the liquid and connects with the injection nozzle; a chamber volume varying unit to which driving voltage is applied to reduce the volume of the chamber to a volume smaller than the volume of the chamber before the driving voltage is applied; a driving voltage applying unit which applies the driving voltage to the chamber volume varying unit with the liquid supplied to the chamber; a pseudo noise data memory unit which stores sound data of pseudo noise having audible frequency components contained in driving noise generated when the driving voltage is applied to the chamber volume varying unit; and a pseudo noise outputting unit which outputs the pseudo noise by using the sound data of the pseudo noise such that the sound pressure of the driving noise decreases within the audible frequency range when the driving voltage is applied. |
| US09055967B1 |
Tissue severing device having dual reciprocating looped blades and methods of use
Tissue severing devices having dual reciprocating looped blades are disclosed herein. The severing devices described herein can be used during laparoscopic surgery to cut tissue of a predetermined diameter using the two looped blades. |
| US09055963B2 |
Device for the removal of thrombi
The invention relates to a device for the removal of foreign bodies and thrombi from body cavities and blood vessels using a guide wire provided with a distal element with said distal element being provided with an orthogonal structure. |
| US09055962B2 |
Optic fiber connection for a force sensing instrument
A surgical instrument that includes a housing linkable with a manipulator arm of a robotic surgical system, a shaft coupled to the housing, a force transducer on a distal end of the shaft, and a plurality of fiber optic strain gauges on the force transducer is disclosed. The plurality of strain gauges are coupled to a fiber optic splitter or an arrayed waveguide grating (AWG) multiplexer, which can be coupled to a fiber optic connector. A wrist joint coupled to an end effector is coupled to a distal end of the force transducer. A robotic surgical manipulator that includes a base link coupled to a distal end of a manipulator positioning system, and a distal link with an instrument interface, and a fiber optic connector optically linkable to a surgical instrument. A method of passing data between an instrument and a manipulator via optical connectors is also provided. |
| US09055961B2 |
Fusing and cutting surgical instrument and related methods
A surgical instrument can include a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, and a wrist coupled to the distal end of the shaft and configured to articulate in multiple degrees of freedom coupled to the distal end of the shaft. The surgical instrument can further include an end effector supported by the wrist, wherein the end effector includes a cutting element and jaws configured to grip tissue and fuse tissue via electrosurgical energy. The surgical instrument can be configured for use with a teleoperated robotic surgical system that can include a patient side console configured to interface to actuate the surgical instrument and a surgeon side console configured to receive inputs from a surgeon to control the actuation of the surgical instrument. |
| US09055958B2 |
Hair modification using converging light
Embodiments of methods and systems for hair treatment are disclosed. According to various embodiments, light is used to shave, trim, or otherwise modify hair shafts. |
| US09055957B2 |
Microwave field-detecting needle assemblies, methods of manufacturing same, methods of adjusting an ablation field radiating into tissue using same, and systems including same
A method of adjusting an ablation field radiating into tissue includes the initial steps of providing an energy applicator and providing one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies. Each microwave field-detecting needle assembly includes one or more rectifier elements capable of detecting microwave field intensity via rectification. The method includes the steps of positioning the energy applicator and the one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies in tissue, transmitting energy from an energy source through the energy applicator to generate an ablation field radiating about at least a portion of the energy applicator into tissue, and adjusting the ablation field radiating about at least the portion of the energy applicator into tissue based on at least one electrical signal transmitted by the one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies. |
| US09055955B2 |
Bone resurfacing system and method
The present disclosure relates to bone resurfacing. One embodiment includes a method for preparing an implant site in bone, comprising establishing a first working axis extending from said bone; establishing a second working axis extending from said bone, the second working axis is displaced from the first working axis; creating a first socket in the bone by reaming about the first working axis; and creating a second socket in the bone, adjacent the first socket, by reaming about the second working axis. |
| US09055945B2 |
Surgical fasteners having articulating joints and deflectable tips
A surgical fastener for securing a prosthetic device to tissue includes a first leg having a proximal end, a distal end, a first insertion tip at the distal end, and a first articulating joint that separates said first leg into a proximal segment and a distal segment that is deflectable relative to the proximal segment, and a second leg including a proximal end, a distal end, a second insertion tip at the distal end, and a second articulating joint that separates said second leg into a proximal segment and a distal segment that is deflectable relative to the proximal segment. A bridge connects the proximal ends of the first and second legs for forming a closed end of the surgical fastener. After implantation in tissue, the insertion tips are deflectable away from vessels and nerves to minimize injury to the vessels and nerves, and to minimize patient discomfort and pain. |
| US09055938B2 |
Surgical suturing latch
Suturing systems may comprise a cartridge and a drive unit which are detachable from each other. The cartridge often has a cartridge body, a plurality of jaws, and a cartridge interface. The drive unit has a drive unit body, a linkage, and a drive unit interface which will typically include a latch. A latch input is coupled to the latch so that a movement of the input moves the latch to the released position. The cartridge interface or the drive unit interface includes a channel while the other includes a shaft which is fittingly receivable in the channel. Opposed motions of the input and cartridge during cartridge removal avoid inadvertent detachment during use. |
| US09055937B2 |
Apical puncture access and closure system
A device, system, and method for providing access to, and sealing of, a body organ includes an implant device. An implant device has a main body having an internal access lumen, with a plurality of prongs extending from a distal end of the main body. The main body can include two lumens, one slidable within the other, to form a single continuous lumen with an adjustable length. The main body has an expanded configuration with an expanded diameter, and an unexpanded configuration with an unexpanded diameter. The prongs have a generally straight configuration where they extend distally of the distal end of the main body, and a bent configuration where the prongs bend around so that their tips extend proximally of the distal end of the main body. The device may include a hemostatic barrier to prevent fluid leakage therethrough when the main body is in the unexpanded configuration. |
| US09055934B2 |
Methods and apparatus for access to and/or treatment of the spine
Systems, devices, and methods suitable for use with procedures performed at least partially percutaneously are provided. In some procedures, two or more access devices for providing access to adjacent surgical locations within a patient are used. Certain embodiments of the access device comprise an elongate body having a distal end with one or more cutouts. The cutouts on adjacent access devices are generally aligned with each other to permit passage of a portion of a fixation element from one access device to the other access device. A fastener with an elongated removable head may be delivered to the surgical site through the access device. After a distal end of the fastener is secured to the surgical site, a portion of the elongated housing is detached from the remainder of the fastener and removed from the patient. |
| US09055933B2 |
Large bore closure secondary hemostasis bioadhesive delivery systems and methods
A vascular closure assembly includes a suture placement device and a sealant delivery device. The suture placement device is operable to position at least one suture across the puncture to form a primary seal of the puncture. The sealant delivery device includes a sealant delivery tube having a first lumen sized to receive the at least one suture, and a second lumen configured to deliver a volume of sealant to the puncture after forming the primary seal to create a secondary seal of the puncture. The sealant delivery device is slidable along the at least one suture to the puncture. |
| US09055927B2 |
User interface for artifact removal in an EEG
A method and system for a user interface for artifact removal in an EEG is disclosed herein. The invention allows an operator to select a plurality of artifacts to be automatically removed from an EEG recording using a user interface. The operator pushes a button on the user interface to apply a plurality of filters to remove the plurality of artifacts from the EEG and generate a clean EEG for viewing. |
| US09055926B2 |
Guide block for biopsy or surgical devices
One embodiment having features of the invention is directed to a guide block for an MRI device which has a block body with a proximal face, a distal face, and four parallel passageways extending between the two faces. The first passageway is centrally disposed, the second passageway is disposed vertical or horizontal to the first, the third passageway is located diagonal to the first and has a longitudinal opening in fluid communication with the first passageway, and the fourth passageway is diagonal to the first and in an opposite side of the body from the third passageway. In an alternative embodiment the guide block has at least one passageway that is not parallel to the longitudinal axis. |
| US09055923B2 |
Computed radiography positioning method and system
An apparatus for obtaining an intraoral x-ray image from a patient, the apparatus has an x-ray source and a radio-frequency transceiver coupled to the x-ray source and energizable to transmit an interrogation signal, wherein the transceiver is in signal communication with four or more antennae. An intraoral image detector forms an image upon exposure to radiation received from the x-ray source. A radio-frequency transponder is coupled to the image detector and is configured to respond to the interrogation signal by transmitting a wireless response signal. A control logic processor is in communication with the transceiver and provides an output signal indicative of the spatial position of the image detector according to response signals received from the transponder at the four or more antennae. An indicator responds to the output signal by indicating the relative position of the image detector. |
| US09055919B2 |
Spectral imaging
A method includes concurrently modulating administration of at least two different contrast agents to a subject during an imaging procedure based on a modulation profile. The at least two different contrast agents exhibit different spectral characteristics. The method further includes performing a spectral decomposition of data indicative of the at least two different contrast agents, determining concentrations of the at least two different contrast agents based on the spectral reconstruction, and determining a perfusion parameter based on a ratio of the concentrations and the modulation profile. |
| US09055918B2 |
System and method for determining patient follow-up subsequent to an orthopaedic procedure
A method of determining patient follow-up subsequent to an orthopaedic procedure includes determining the number of cycles of use of an orthopaedic joint of the patient. If a predetermined threshold is exceeded, communication with an orthopaedic care provider is initiated. A patient monitoring system is also disclosed. |
| US09055914B2 |
Devices, systems, and methods for controlling field of view in imaging systems
Devices, systems, and methods for controlling the field of view in imaging systems are provided. For example, in one embodiment an imaging system includes a flexible elongate member sized and shaped for use within an internal structure of a patient, an imaging transducer positioned within the distal portion of the flexible elongate member, an imaging marker positioned to be detectable within a field of view of the imaging transducer, and a controller in communication with the flexible elongate member and configured to adjust a control signal of the flexible elongate member based on the detection of the imaging marker in data received from the flexible elongate member in order to achieve a desired field of view for the imaging transducer. |
| US09055911B2 |
Radiation generating device and radiation imaging apparatus
A radiation imaging apparatus includes an arm configured to support a radiation generating unit that generates radiation, a post configured to support the arm, a movable portion configured to support the post and to be movable on a floor, and a supporting foot portion that is rotatable with respect to the movable portion. The supporting foot portion and the arm are operable to be placed in an open state and a closed state. In a state where the supporting foot portion and the arm are closed, the supporting foot portion covers the radiation generating unit. |
| US09055907B2 |
Surgical access port
The present embodiments provide a surgical access port comprising at least one channel having proximal and distal ends, and a lumen extending therebetween. The at least one channel comprises a first state in which the proximal end is positioned proximal to the distal end, and comprises a second state in which the at least one channel is everted by advancing the proximal end through the distal end, such that the proximal end is positioned distally beyond the distal end. An expansion member of the surgical access port is configured for insertion through a surgical incision in a contracted state, and expands to a diameter larger than the surgical incision in an expanded state. In one embodiment, the expansion member comprises a toroidal balloon that comprises a material adapted to flex and conform to tissue distal to the surgical incision in the expanded state. |
| US09055904B2 |
Multi-touch display and input for vision testing and training
The present invention provides systems and methods for receiving an input to a sensory test or training activity by way of a touch-screen device. The touch-screen device receives instructions by way of a wireless communication protocol from a sensory testing and training device. The instructions may be comprised of a command to display a graphical element on the touch-screen device. As a result, the touch-screen device displays the graphical element on a display surface of the touch-screen device. Further, an input may be received from a subject in the form of a physical contact between the subject and the display surface of the touch-screen device. The input may be in response to a sensory test or a sensory training activity. Additionally, the touch-screen device communicates the input to the sensory training device utilizing a wireless communication protocol. In an additional embodiment, the touch-screen device provides feedback to a user. |
| US09055903B2 |
Fundus photographing apparatus
A fundus photographing apparatus includes a measurement unit including an optical coherence tomography system for obtaining a tomographic image of the fundus of an examinee's eye by detecting an interference state between measurement light from the fundus of the examinee's eye and reference light, a detection unit for detecting an alignment state perceived as a relative positional relationship between the measurement unit and the examinee's eye, and a controller for adjusting the optical coherence tomography system with respect to the fundus of the examinee's eye based on a detection result from the detection unit. The adjustment of the optical coherence tomography system includes at least one of an optical path length adjustment, which adjusts an optical path length difference between the measurement light and the reference light, and a focus adjustment. |
| US09055901B2 |
Transcutaneous analyte sensor
The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for measuring an analyte in a host. More particularly, the present invention relates to systems and methods for transcutaneous measurement of glucose in a host. |
| US09055899B2 |
Lancing device with improved guidance assembly
A guidance mechanism for a lancing device. The guidance mechanism includes a piston having a shaft, a plurality of wings or fins extending from the shaft, a plurality of sliding engagement structures, and a lancet holder; and a chassis having a body, a plurality of longitudinal slits or cutouts, a plurality of elongated engagement structures, and an end aperture. The piston slides within the chassis, and the wings/fins engage within the slits/cutouts, allowing for linear longitudinal guidance of the piston within the chassis. |
| US09055898B2 |
Lancet release mechanism
A lancing device comprises a lancet holder and a lancet-release mechanism. The lancet holder forms an aperture. The aperture is adapted to receive a lancet assembly therein. The lancet holder is adapted to move the lancet assembly between a resting position, a cocking position, and a puncture position. The lancet-release mechanism includes a release button located adjacent to and external from the lancing device and a beam attached to the release button. The beam extends into the lancing device and the lancet holder. The beam is adapted to engage the lancet assembly. The release button and attached beam are adapted to eject the lancet assembly from the lancet holder. |
| US09055897B2 |
Method and apparatus for measuring otoacoustic emission
A method of measuring an otoacoustic emission (OAE) is provided. The method comprises generating a frequency OAE graph with N plot lines, by performing frequency sweeping on N signals having different levels, wherein N is a natural number of at least 2; and when there are plot lines that overlap each other in the frequency OAE graph, compensating values of the N plot lines of the frequency OAE graph in a predetermined frequency section including a frequency section where the plot lines overlap each other. |
| US09055894B2 |
Eye refractive power measuring apparatus and calibration method of eye refractive power measuring apparatus
An eye refractive power measuring apparatus includes a light projecting optical system, a light receiving optical system, a focusing unit, a calibration optical system, a focus control unit, and an arithmetic unit. The arithmetic unit, based on a relation of a control signal obtained when a calibration beam is projected and a calibration value that is an output of a light receiving unit, and a correlation of a calibration value obtained in advance and eye refractive power, calculates a correlation of the control signal and the eye refractive power, and, based on a control signal obtained when measuring beam is projected, a measured value that is an output of the light receiving unit, and the correlation, calculates the eye refractive power. |
| US09055893B2 |
Degree of hardness measurement system and degree of hardness measurement method
For measuring hardness of an object, a measurement apparatus is pushed against the object and a degree of hardness calculation system calculates hardness based on information from the measurement apparatus. The measurement apparatus includes an acceleration sensor which outputs first information of acceleration of a contact area of the measurement apparatus, and a second sensor, such as a magnetic sensor or a pressure sensor, which outputs second information based on pressure applied to the contact area. The degree of hardness calculation system generates a second-derivative waveform by twice differentiating a waveform based on the output of the second sensor, compares the second-derivative waveform and the information of acceleration from the acceleration sensor, and calculates hardness of the object based on the comparison result. |
| US09055892B2 |
Systems and methods for improved ophthalmic imaging
Systems and methods for improving ophthalmic imaging by correlating the location of a measurement on the pupil of the eye with a quality of the measurement and further controlling subsequent measurements based on the quality are presented. Aspects of the invention include obtaining optical coherence tomography (OCT) measurements through cataracts or other media opacities, obtaining B-scans with minimized tilt, and automated OCT data acquisition of select structures in the eye. Embodiments of the invention directed towards imaging tissues with angle dependent layer contrast and mapping the size and location of cataracts in the eye are also described. |
| US09055886B1 |
Automatic tool alignment in a backscatter x-ray scanning system
Technologies pertaining to backscatter x-ray scanning systems are described herein. The backscatter x-ray scanning system includes an x-ray source, which directs collimated x-rays along a plurality of output vectors towards a target. A detector detects diffusely reflected x-rays subsequent to respective collimated x-rays impacting the target, and outputs signals indicative of parameters of the detected x-rays. An image processing system generates an x-ray image based upon parameters of the detected x-rays, wherein each pixel in the image corresponds to a respective output vector. A user selects a particular portion of the image, and a tool is positioned such that its directional axis is coincident with the output vector corresponding to at least one pixel in the portion of the image. |
| US09055884B2 |
MRI-guided medical interventional systems and methods
An MRI-guided interventional system includes a trajectory guide frame for guiding an interventional device with respect to a patient in an MRI-guided procedure and including a base, a platform, a targeting cannula, and a stabilizer mechanism. The platform is mounted on the base and includes a support table and a moving plate that is translatable relative to the support table and the base along a translational axis. The targeting cannula is mounted on the moving plate for movement therewith and includes an elongate guide bore defining a trajectory axis. The stabilizer mechanism is operable to selectively control movement between the support table and the moving plate to stabilize a position of the targeting cannula with respect to the base. The frame is operable to translate the moving plate along the translational axis relative to the base to position the trajectory axis. The translational axis is transverse to the trajectory axis. |
| US09055882B2 |
Method and apparatus to generate magnetic resonance images
In a method and apparatus to generate a magnetic resonance (MR) image in a volume of interest of an examination subject, the magnetization is excited in an additional volume in the subject by at least one RF pulse, in order to achieve a desired magnetization in the volume of interest. The additional excitation volume differs at least partially from the volume of interest. For this purpose, at least one MR overview image of the examination subject is analyzed automatically to determine a position of at least one anatomical structure of the examination subject, from which the volume of interest is automatically determined. The additional excitation volume is automatically determined using the position of the at least one anatomical structure. The MR image in the volume of interest is acquired with excitation of the magnetization in the automatically determined additional excitation volume. |
| US09055880B2 |
Method and apparatus for determining an in vivo position of an esophageal catheter
In a method and an apparatus for determining the position of an esophageal catheter that is inserted into the esophagus of a patient, the catheter having a number of electrodes, muscular activity of the diaphragm is stimulated by applying a stimulus signal that produces a myoelectrical signal in the diaphragm having a well-defined peak at a specific point in time. The myoelectrical signal is detected by respective pairs of electrodes of said catheter, and the electrode pair or pairs that detected the signal having the highest amplitude at the specific point in time is identified. If this electrode pair or these electrode pairs that detected the signal with highest amplitude are not located approximately at the middle of the catheter, an indication is emitted that the position of the catheter should be adjusted. |
| US09055876B2 |
System and method for reconstructing cardiac activation information
An example system and method of processing cardiac activation information are disclosed. The method includes accessing a first cardiac signal and a second cardiac signal obtained from a patient. The first cardiac signal and the second cardiac signal are processed to determine whether there is a point of change in the first cardiac signal at which a derivative of the first cardiac signal diverges with respect to a derivative of the second cardiac signal above a threshold. An activation onset time is assigned in the first cardiac signal at the point of change to define a cardiac activation if the point of change is in the first cardiac signal. |
| US09055872B2 |
Radiographic image detector, radiographic imaging apparatus, radiographic imaging system
The present invention provides a radiographic image detector that may maintain even resolution in 6 directions before and after 3-pixel binning process or 4-pixel binning process. A radiation detector is disposed with plural pixels that have hexagonal shaped pixel regions, arrayed in a honeycomb pattern. Scan lines connected to TFT switches in each of the pixels are disposed one for each of the pixel rows. Grouped scan lines are also disposed one for each of the pixel rows for reading and combining 3 pixels or 4 pixels worth of charges at the same timing for plural pixel groups, each configured from 3 pixels or 4 pixels in a radiation detection element. ON signals are simultaneously sent by the grouped scanned lines to the TFT switches to perform 3-pixel binning or 4-pixel binning. |
| US09055863B2 |
Portable endoscope
Provided herein are water-tight, portable endoscopes that include the light and power source incorporated into a sealed compartment (also referred to herein as sealed canister) within the endoscope handle. The description also features water-tight, endoscope handles that include the light and power source incorporated into a sealed canister within the handle. In some embodiments, the sealed compartment contains all of the electronic components of the endoscope. |
| US09055857B2 |
Domestic appliance with a door-weight compensating device
An appliance including a treatment container having a container door pivotable about a pivot axis, and a door-weight compensating device for at least partially compensating a weight of the container door. The door-weight compensating device may include a spring which is connected by a tension transmitter in a spring force transmitting manner to the container door. In an exemplary embodiment, the container door includes a deflector pivotally disposed about the pivot axis, the deflector having at least two sliding surfaces for deflecting the tension transmitter. |
| US09055856B2 |
Dishwasher with a plastic frame part which is fixed to a treatment container
A dishwasher includes a plastic frame that is fixed to a treatment container. The front of the treatment container has a filling opening which can be closed by a door. The treatment container has a container casing, which comprises side walls, a container roof, and the frame. The frame forms a front face of the treatment container and is connected to the container casing in an interlocking manner. |
| US09055854B2 |
Water-guiding household appliance comprising a self-cleaning filter
A water-guiding household appliance that includes a filter arranged in a line system, the filter including at least one filter element; and a base body, wherein the at least one filter element is secured to the base body in a pivotable manner at a rotation point and structured to be moved between a filter position and a cleaning position. |
| US09055853B2 |
Steam appliance
A steam appliance having a split handle with the upper part biased away from the handle base and an actuator for a water pump. When the appliance is pushed, the handle upper part is depressed and displaces a pump actuator to activate the pump. Use of a steam frame and steam towel allows an iron to be used as a steam cleaner. When a pole is mounted on the upper handle part, the appliance may be used as a steam mop that is activated by pushing the pole which depresses the handle to actuate the pump. |
| US09055851B2 |
Locking system for a dishwasher
The present invention relates to a locking system for a drawer of a drawer dishwasher and a method for unlocking a drawer of a drawer dishwasher. The locking system includes a locking device for locking a drawer of the drawer dishwasher to a chassis or frame of the dishwasher; an opening attempt sensor for detecting an opening attempt of the drawer; and a control unit connected to the opening attempt sensor and the locking device. The control unit is arranged to trigger stop of a dishwasher pump of the dishwasher based on a detected opening attempt, and wherein the control unit is further arranged to trigger the locking device to unlock after the dishwasher pump has been stopped. Thereby, there is provided a reliable and safe way of opening the drawer during a washing program without the risk of hot water splashing out onto the user or onto the floor. |
| US09055850B2 |
Dishwasher with an optimized filling sequence
A dishwasher includes a control device controlling a dishwashing cycle for cleaning items to be washed, a dishwashing chamber for the items to be washed, an inlet valve for controlled filling the washing chamber with washing liquid, and a circulating pump for circulating the washing liquid in the dishwashing chamber. The inlet valve is opened during a primary filling phase having a duration sufficient to fill the dishwashing chamber with a nominal amount of washing liquid and allowing the circulating pump running to run concentrically at a rated speed. A concentricity monitoring unit performs a concentricity check at the end of the primary filling phase to ascertain whether the circulating pump is running concentrically at the rated speed. The filling sequence is terminated when the circulating pump is running concentrically, whereas the filling sequence is continued when the circulating pump is not running concentrically. |
| US09055848B2 |
Suction cleaner and operation method thereof
A suction cleaner and an operation method thereof are provided. The suction cleaner includes a housing, a holding part, an impeller module, at least one sensing device, and a controller. An end of the housing has a dust-suction opening. The impeller module is located inside the housing, and a channel is located between the impeller module and the dust-suction opening. The controller is electrically connected to the sensing device to drive and adjust the rotation rate and the suction force of the impeller module, and thus the power consumption of the suction cleaner can be reduced. |
| US09055846B2 |
Mounting driver for undermounted sinks
A mounting driver for undermounting a sink to a support surface includes a support bar shaped and dimensioned for positioning between an underside of the sink and a wall of a cabinet at an angular orientation relative to the wall. The support bar includes a first end and a second end. The mounting driver also includes a mounting bracket shaped and dimensioned for fixed attachment to the wall of the cabinet, the mounting bracket including a recess shaped and dimensioned to receive the second end of support bar. With the first end of the support bar pressed against the underside of the sink, the second end of the support bar is secured within the mounting bracket rigidly secured to the wall of the cabinet. |
| US09055843B2 |
Domestic appliance with an electronic safety system and a mechanical locking system and method for operating a domestic appliance
The present invention relates to a hand blender having a processing tool for mixing or comminuting foodstuffs. The hand blender has an electric motor, a power source with a first pole electrically connected to the electric motor and a second pole electrically connected to the electric motor, a controller, first and second mechanical switches having a first position and a second position, an electromechanical element for detecting the position of the first mechanical switch, and an electrical switch for detecting the position of the second mechanical switch. |
| US09055842B2 |
Cooking container for electronic oven
A cooking container for an electronic oven includes a housing unit having an entrance through which hot air enters; and a support unit on the housing unit, configured to have placed thereon one or more cooking objects to be cooked by the hot air. |
| US09055835B1 |
Decorative tree
A decorative tree comprises a base, a pole inserted in the base, and plural hoops that are pivotably connected in series prior to complete assembly of the tree. The lowest hoop is attached to the outer rim of the base, an uppermost hoop is provided to connect toward the top of the pole, and one or more intermediate hoops are interposed between the lowest and uppermost hoops. Each hoop has a pivotable connection to an adjacent hoop. The connection of a particular hoop to a lower adjacent hoop is formed on one side of the hoop and a connection of that particular hoop to an upper adjacent hoop is formed on a substantially opposite side of the hoop. Upon complete assembly of the tree, the uppermost hoop is extended toward the top of the tree and the hoops are expanded upward so as to form a decorative pattern of hoops with alternating angular orientations. The hoops may be of one or more shapes and sizes and may be wrapped with light strips to illuminate the tree. |
| US09055834B2 |
Adjustable garment hanger
The present invention is an adjustable hanger which allows for using a single hanger to be utilized for multiple different sized clothes. The shoulders utilize a locking button system. In some embodiments spring or magnetic clips are used on the horizontal beam of the hanger. |
| US09055833B2 |
Drinking mouthpiece
A drinking mouthpiece comprising a resilient body through which fluid flows from a rear opening through to a front opening, the body having a contoured longitudinal upper profile for lying against a portion of the palate of a mouth and a contoured longitudinal lower profile for lying against a tongue; wherein a forward end of the mouthpiece near the front opening has a cross-sectional profile that tapers to two opposing sides of the mouthpiece, and also has a bulging area on the lower profile that provides a reference point against which the tongue can lie. |
| US09055831B2 |
Bowl having arrangement for adjustably fastening a magnet
A bowl includes a flexible, continuous wall; an annular latch disposed on a lower portion of an inner surface of the flexible, continuous wall and inclined downward, inward; a hollow bottom member integrally formed with the flexible, continuous wall; a magnet disposed in the hollow bottom member; an annular groove formed between the annular latch and a joining portion of the inner surface of the flexible, continuous wall and an inner surface of the hollow bottom member; an internally threaded boss disposed on a bottom of the hollow bottom member; and a cover including an externally threaded projection threadedly fastened in the internally threaded boss. An edge of the cover is disposed in the annular groove. A portion of top of the cover adjacent to its edge is urged downward by the annular latch so as to hold the magnet secure. |
| US09055817B2 |
Seating furniture with independently free-swinging seat and backrest
An article of furniture, such as a chair, including a free-swinging seat and a free-swinging backrest. The chair includes a seat and backrest coupled to a chair frame, where the chair frame includes first and second laterally spaced apart components. The first and second components each have a floor strut and a pair of legs that may be arranged in a substantially triangular configuration for supporting the seat. The chair also includes a coupling device, which may include a spring element, coupled to the legs and configured to allow forward movement of the seat and backward movement of the backrest, where movement of the seat and backrest may occur independently of one another. In some embodiments, the maximum movement of the seat and backrest may be limited by restricting movement of the coupling device. |
| US09055816B2 |
Collapsible easel
Some embodiments generally relate to portable easel devices for supporting and/or displaying objects such as canvas, other paintable substrates, or even sheet music. Embodiments may include one or more collapsible elements rendering the device readily storable and/or easier to carry or transport. |
| US09055810B2 |
Adjustable desk platform
An adjustable desk platform includes an upper platform defining a substantially planar work surface. A lower platform is located beneath the upper platform. At least one set of pivot arms connect the lower platform and the upper platform, the set of pivot arms including a primary pivot arm and a secondary pivot arm. The set of pivot arms is adapted to move the upper platform substantially in parallel with the lower platform between a fully raised position and a fully lowered position. A locking mechanism is associated with the set of pivot arms. The locking mechanism is adapted to releasably lock the upper platform in the fully raised position and in the fully lowered position. A keyboard tray is suspended below the upper platform, the keyboard tray adapted to support a computer keyboard. |
| US09055805B2 |
Gym locker organizer bag
A utility bag having shoulder straps which allows the bag to be used as a backpack to carry clothing, shoes, wet items, personal grooming items, etc. to a gym. At the gym the utility bag can be hung up on one or more of the locker hooks and, when the front panel of the utility bag is opened, all items in the utility bag can be easily accessed without removing the bag from the locker. The bag has a number of separate internally located compartments where each compartment can have a see through mesh front panel which allows a user to see the contents of the compartment and allows air to circulate. The bag has pockets which are accessible from the outside of the bag which allow a user to quickly access a desired item such as a cell phone, wallet, etc. without opening the utility bag. |
| US09055804B2 |
Cosmetic applicator
An applicator for applying a cosmetic composition comprising an applicator element. The applicator element may be elongated along a longitudinal axis. The applicator has a first portion and a second portion separateable from the first portion and capable of moving independently from the first portion along the longitudinal axis. The first and/or second portions of the applicator element include means for holding a charge of cosmetic composition and transferring it to an integument on contact therewith. |
| US09055802B2 |
Progressive comb for haircut fading
An apparatus for a “V” shaped comb. The comb gradually gets thicker from bottom to top. This comb is somewhat intended to be used like a traditional comb; however, the width of the comb keeps the hair spaced evenly to ensure a blended fade haircut. The sporadic teeth keep the hair in place while the trimmers cut the hair following the edge guide provided on the comb. This tool gives the stylist (user) the flexibility to provide a shorter fade or longer fade by adjusting the comb up or down on the head. |
| US09055801B1 |
Nail coating removal pad and retainer
A nail coating removal wrap and retainer for securing a solvent pad to the digit of a user of a durable nail coating so that a solvent held by the pad is retained in contact with the nail coating to be removed. The nail coating removal wrap and retainer includes a wrap strip to which the solvent pad is bonded in a method impervious to the solvent held by the solvent pad. The wrap strip is selected or treated so that the wrap coheres to itself when wrapped around a digit of the user to releasably secure the wrap to the digit of the user while the solvent works to loosen the nail coating. |
| US09055795B2 |
Cable tethering neckpiece
A neckpiece wearable by a user includes opposing arm segments operatively connected to each other and configured such that each arm segment defines a tethering element configured to removably retain a cable to the neckpiece. The arm segments may be arranged to retain the neckpiece to the user's neck intermediate the shoulders and jaw of the user, such that the neckpiece when worn by the user is not in contact with the user's shoulders and/or is not supported in position by the user's shoulders. An access opening allows the user to don and doff the neckpiece, and is preferably less than 35% of the perimeter of the neckpiece. The neckpiece may include a grasping interface to exert a grasping pressure on the user's neck. The neckpiece may include a physiological sensing element. The arm segments may be formed of wire. A connecting element may detachably connect the opposing arm segments. |
| US09055794B1 |
Umbrella case and method of connecting umbrella to a handle
An umbrella apparatus with a self-storing ability is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a handle portion which opens to reveal a folded umbrella rod, cupola, and ribs. The umbrella portion rotates to an open position and the handle is closed once again. The apparatus thus functions as an umbrella when needed, and as a case for holding the umbrella when the umbrella is not needed. The handle is capable of enclosing the entire umbrella in a folded form for easy portability. A method for connecting an umbrella to a multi-functional handle is also disclosed. |
| US09055786B2 |
Cleat attachment system
A cleat attachment system for footwear. The cleat includes a cylinder on a base with one or more locking tabs disposed around the outside of the cylinder. The receptacle includes a cylindrical cavity with one or more locking tabs on the cavity's inner surface. A cleat attaches to a receptacle embedded in footwear by inserting the cleat attachment structure into the receptacle, after ramps on the cleat attachment structure and the receptacle are oriented with respect to each other. The locking tabs engage to retain the cleat in the receptacle. Corresponding ramps on the cleat attachment structure and the receptacle cooperate to disengage the locking tabs when the cleat attachment structure is twisted about its axis. The cleat is thereby detached from the receptacle. |
| US09055781B2 |
Body balance device
The present invention relates to a body balance device, which includes a main body made of a cushioning material. The main body includes a first metatarsal bone section, a fourth metatarsal bone section, and a foot heel section. The main body forms a primary adjustment structure located between the first metatarsal bone section and the fourth metatarsal bone section and a secondary adjustment structure located between the fourth metatarsal bone section and the foot heel section and corresponding to outside of the main body. Both adjustment structures are formed with a structure of through hole or cavity in which a soft material is selectively embedded to allow the human body to reach a balanced condition when standing or walking so as to improve the discomfort of bones and muscles caused by long standing or walking. |
| US09055771B2 |
Brassiere with excellent vibration resistance
To provide a brassiere with an excellent effect of reducing motion of the breasts during movement, or in other words, excellent vibration resistance, and preferably a brassiere that also has excellent beauty appearance and comfort. The brassiere comprises a pair of cup sections, a joint linking together the front center sides of the cup sections, wing sections, and straps whose edges are connected to the pair of cup sections and the wing sections, and having an anti-vibration section at a specific location. |
| US09055768B2 |
High speed object inserter and related methods
An apparatus for inserting one or more objects into a filter component of a tobacco rod includes at least one storage apparatus that stores a plurality of the objects, each object having a predetermined volume. At least one inserter wheel receives the objects stored in the storage apparatus, and inserts the objects into at least one band of filter material. Each of the at least one inserter wheels has an outer periphery with a plurality of pockets and distributed about the outer periphery. Each pocket has a shape configured to support one of the objects with between about one quarter and about one half of the volume of the object received in the pocket. The remainder of the object protrudes from the pocket above the outer periphery of the inserter wheel. A method of inserting one or more objects into a filter component of a tobacco rod is also described. |
| US09055760B2 |
Sweetened consumables comprising rebaudioside A as a sweetness enhancer and method of enhancing sweetness of consumables
Disclosed are sweetened consumables and methods of forming said sweetened consumables that comprise certain sweeteners and at least one sweetness enhancer in a concentration near its sweetness detection threshold. The sweeteners include sucrose, fructose, glucose, high fructose corn syrup, corn syrup, xylose, arabinose, rhamnose, erythritol, xylitol, mannitol, sorbitol, inositol, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, neotame, sucralose, saccharine, or combinations thereof. The sweetness enhancer is selected from naringin dihydrochalcone, mogroside V, swingle extract, rubusoside, rubus extract, rebaudioside, and stevioside. |
| US09055758B2 |
Chemical and preservative free peeled potatoes
Various embodiments are described herein of a method and apparatus that can be used to extend the shelf-life of potatoes without adding preservatives or chemicals. |
| US09055757B2 |
Stabilizer composition of co-attrited microcrystalline cellulose and carboxymethylcellulose, method for making, and uses
Methods of making a high gel strength, water-dispersible, stabilizing colloidal microcrystalline cellulose composition are disclosed. This stabilizer composition is useful in many food and non-food applications. |
| US09055755B2 |
Container for accommodating products during a high-pressure treatment
The invention relates to a container for the accommodation of products during a high pressure treatment of the products, whereby the container comprises an outer wall and a cavity situated within the outer wall for the accommodation of the products. With the container according to the invention at least one section of the outer wall is formed by a large number of mutually coupled chain links, which are arranged in the form of at least one multi-dimensional chain link matrix. |
| US09055751B2 |
Titanium dioxide photocatalytic compositions and uses thereof
Provided is a photocatalytic composition comprising zinc (Zn) doped titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles, wherein the ratio of titanium dioxide nanoparticles to zinc is from about 5 to about 150. The photocatalytic composition absorbs electromagnetic radiation in a wavelength range from about 200 nm to about 500 nm, and the absorbance of light of wavelengths longer than about 450 nm is less than 50% the absorbance of light of wavelengths shorter than about 350 nm. Further provided is a method for treating or preventing microbial diseases and infestations in a plant and a method for increasing crop yield of a plant by applying the photocatalytic compositions taught herein to the surface of a plant. Also provided is a method for treating microbial diseases on a surface by applying the photocatalytic compositions taught herein to a surface illuminated by artificial light. |
| US09055742B2 |
Herbicide granules with built-in adjuvant
Provided herein are herbicide granules containing non-petroleum derived built-in adjuvant. |
| US09055738B1 |
Game lifting apparatus and method of use
A portable and collapsible game animal lifting apparatus comprising a horizontal base member, a vertical support member pivotably attached to the base member, a horizontal lift member pivotably and slidably attached to the support member, and a winch attached to the support member. The winch is operably connected to the lift member for raising and lowering the lift member. The winch is operable to unwind a winch cable from the winch and thereby lower the lift member to receive the game animal thereupon. The winch is further operable to wind the winch cable about the winch and thereby raise the lift member to a desired height to assist in transferring the game animal to a transport vehicle. |
| US09055736B1 |
Bare hook/lost bait alarm
A bait and hook arrangement is coupled with a mechanism that alerts a fisherman when his or her bait article is no longer attached to the hook. When the bait is off the hook, (empty hook), the mechanism is triggered. |
| US09055734B1 |
Device for loading livestock via conveyor belt
Device for conveyor belt livestock loading with pre-loader having conveyor belt, main conveyor, comprising a lift section, top section, and also having an auto-loader section. |
| US09055732B1 |
Equine ice boot
An assembly of a reservoir with a solid sole and an orthotic pad to provide a relatively simple, light weight portable system to allow equine hoof and leg cooling together with proper hoof support. The assembly and method is useful for preventive treatment for performance stress and lameness, including laminitis. |
| US09055731B2 |
Method, feed cart and system for feeding of fur animals
A method for positioning an individually metered out food portion on an animal cage arranged in a row of animal cages for fur animals, in particular mink, by means of a motorized feed cart having wheels, at least one driving wheel, and a feed container, the method including moving the feed cart along a row of animal cages, thereby turning the wheels of the feed cart, determining by means of the control unit that the feed cart has reached a given position corresponding to a given cage and a database of information related to at least positions of animal cages and desired size of food portions to each animal cage, controlling the feed cart to metering out the desired food portions at a suitable food delivering place at the given animal cage according to the information in the database, determining by means of the control unit and the database whether a medication should be provided at the given animal cage, and metering medication out according to the information in the database. |
| US09055721B2 |
Methods and media formulations for large-scale and efficient micropropagation of bio-energy grasses
A system, method and media formulation for high-quality and large-scale micropropagation of graminaceous plants such as M.×giganteus and switchgrass have been developed and include callus induction, callus propagation, plantlet regeneration, shoot multiplication, shoot quality improvement and rooting, resulting in high plant survival in the greenhouse and in the field. The systems and methods described herein are theoretically capable of producing more than 700 billion plants from one single shoot in one year. |
| US09055720B2 |
Control system for stopping or reversing movement of an irrigation system
A control system for stopping or reversing movement of an irrigation system comprises an electronic proximity sensor and a control device. The electronic proximity sensor is configured for mounting to the irrigation system and operable to detect a target. The control device is responsive to the electronic proximity sensor for stopping or reversing movement of the irrigation system when the electronic proximity sensor detects the target. |
| US09055717B2 |
Grain vacuum attachment for unloading grain bags
An attachment is disclosed for vacuuming particulate material from a storage bag having a perimeter wall with an opening. The attachment may comprise a mobile base for moving across a ground surface and having a front and a rear. The attachment may comprise an intake assembly positioned toward a rear of the mobile base and may include a gathering conveyor configured to move material in a laterally inward direction toward a center of the intake assembly. The attachment may comprise a vacuum conduction assembly configured to conduct a vacuum condition from an outlet opening to an inlet opening positioned adjacent to the center of the intake assembly. |
| US09055716B2 |
Continuous round baler carriers
A crop harvesting system for continuous round baling is described that comprises a first and second bale chamber and a conveyor system in operable communication with the first and second bale chambers. The crop harvesting system can comprise at least three bale carriers, at least two serpentine systems to facilitate movement of the bale into and out of the first and second bale chambers. The crop harvesting system can be integrated into an agricultural harvester such as a baler or combine. |