| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09056368B2 |
Method and device for monitoring a laser processing operation to be performed on a workpiece and laser processing head having such a device
The invention relates to a method for monitoring a laser machining operation to be performed on a workpiece, comprising the following steps: detecting at least two current measured values by at least one sensor, which monitors the laser machining operation, determining at least two current characteristic values from the at least two current measured values, wherein the at least two current characteristic values jointly represent a current fingerprint in a characteristic value space, providing a predetermined point set in the characteristic value space, and classifying the laser machining operation by detecting the position of the current fingerprint relative to the predetermined point set in the characteristic value space, wherein the at least one sensor comprises at least one camera unit, which records camera images with different exposure times and processes them together by using a high dynamic range (HDR) method, in order to provide images having a high contrast ratio as the current measured values. |
| US09056367B2 |
Conduit
A conduit constructed from a coiled wire having an oval or elliptical cross-sectional shape. |
| US09056363B2 |
Anticorrosive flux
Aluminum parts, such as heat exchangers, with improved resistance towards corrosion caused by contact with stationary water or aqueous compositions can be obtained by addition of Li compounds to the flux used for brazing such parts. LiF and especially Li fluoroaluminates are very suitable. Another aspect of the invention concerns fluxes containing Li salts and their use for brazing of aluminum parts. |
| US09056360B2 |
Multi-blade cutting and drilling finishing tool
Described is a multi-blade cutting and drilling finishing tool for machining deep or stepped bores. The tool comprises at least a first blade set having a nominal diameter and blades distributed essentially uniformly over the circumference. In order to make it easier to guide the tool along the central axis, a guiding strip set in the form of very accurately positioned cutting inserts is located axially behind the first blade set with respect to the axial direction of the tool in which the tool advances forward to machine the deep or stepped bores. Each of the cutting inserts is aligned with one of the blades of the first blade set in a direction parallel to an axis of the tool, and each of the cutting inserts has a nominal diameter which is smaller than the nominal diameter of the first blade set by essentially twice the size of a lubrication gap forming between the guiding strip set and the deep or stepped bores when the tool is used. |
| US09056356B2 |
Device for machining workpieces
A device for machining workpieces, in which a surface plate (1) that can be driven about a rotational axis (W) can be moved in a linear fashion along the rotational axis (W) and the rotational axis (W) is constructed as a hollow axis (H), on the outside diameter of which the surface plate is rotatably mounted, and in which two cross slides (2, 3) which can be displaced radially to the outside and inside perpendicular to the rotational axis (W) are provided on the surface plate (1), and in which the surface plate (1) can be driven by a first drive and the cross slides (2, 3) can be driven by a common second drive. |
| US09056355B2 |
Lathe machining member
A cylindrical core portion, at least a part of which is made of a noble metal alloy and which has a diameter larger than a maximum diameter of a shape obtained by lathe machining, and a hollow-cylindrical peripheral portion, which is made of a material different from the material of the core portion, are included. The core portion is arranged in a hollow portion of the peripheral portion with no space. The material applied to the peripheral portion is a free-cutting material selected from a group of, for example, free-cutting brass, free-cutting phosphor bronze, free cutting nickel silver, and free-cutting beryllium copper. The noble metal alloy applied to the core portion is, for example, alloy mainly consisting of silver, palladium, gold, platinum, zinc, copper, iron, and nickel, alloy mainly consisting of palladium, silver, and copper, or alloy mainly consisting of silver, platinum, zinc, gold, and copper. |
| US09056353B2 |
Manipulating surface topology of BMG feedstock
Described herein is a feedstock comprising BMG. The feedstock has a surface with an average roughness of at least 200 microns. Also described herein is a feedstock comprising BMG. The feedstock, when supported on a support during a melting process of the feedstock, has a contact area between the feedstock and the support up to 50% of a total area of the support. These feedstocks can be made by molding ingots of BMG into a mole with surface patterns, enclosing one or more cores into a sheath with a roughened surface, chemical etching, laser ablating, machining, grinding, sandblasting, or shot peening. The feedstocks can be used as starting materials in an injection molding process. |
| US09056352B2 |
Clipping die for clipping a component
A clipping die for clipping a component, the clipping die including a riser having a support surface with a cutting edge for clipping the component under the action of a punch. A referencing member is provided for engagement with a reference portion of the component. The referencing member is mounted on a resilient element. The resilient element is depressed under the action of a punch to move the referencing member into a position such that the component is fully supported by the support surface during the clipping process. |
| US09056350B2 |
Device and method for manufacturing wire coils
A device for manufacturing wire coils includes: at least two rotationally supported drums which are mounted at a predefined distance from one another, the at least two drums each having at least one bending peg mounted on a lateral surface of the corresponding drums and protruding essentially perpendicularly, a movable wire guiding device winding the wire around the bending pegs protruding from the at least two drums to produce at least one wire winding. The wire guiding device aligns the wire between two bending pegs under a predefinable elastic tension and winds the wire under tension around the corresponding bending peg due to a rotational movement. |
| US09056345B2 |
Method and profiling installation for roll forming a sheet metal
A flexible retaining device (1) for a profiling installation for clamping a sheet metal (5) to be profiled is provided. Furthermore, a method for profiling a sheet metal (5) by using the flexible retaining device (1) is provided as well as sheet metal profiled with the method. |
| US09056344B2 |
Method for producing hot rolled hollow sections having a rectangular cross-section and small edge radii
In a method for producing hot-rolled sections of steel with a rectangular or square cross-section, a substantially round pipe blank produced seamlessly by hot rolling or cold finished and welded and having a defined nominal outside diameter is initially produced and then formed at a forming temperature into a hollow section having the required cross-section, with visible edges C1 and C2 of the hollow section having a value ≦1.5×t (t=wall thickness). The pipe blank has a nominal outer diameter determined from a reduction ratio of the pipe blank to be achieved and the hollow section dimensions to be achieved, wherein the reduction ration lies within a range of −2% to −13% and is determined according to the following formula: Reduction ratio R[%]=[(2×(H+B))−π×D]×100%/[2×(H+B)]. |
| US09056340B2 |
Bioremediation systems, compositions, and methods
Systems, compositions, and methods for the bioremediation of a contaminant contained within a contaminated region. The systems, compositions, and methods may include supplying a first bioremediation formulation that includes an ion exchange resin to a first treatment zone that is associated with the contaminated region. The systems, compositions, and methods further may include supplying a second bioremediation formulation that includes a high-mobility oxidant, a low-mobility oxidant, and a nutrient material to a second treatment zone that is associated with the contaminated region. The systems, compositions, and methods also may include a kit of bioremediation formulations that includes the first bioremediation formulation and the second bioremediation formulation and is to be utilized during the bioremediation of the contaminated region. |
| US09056331B2 |
Thin layer having composition gradient and production method thereof
Disclosed herein are a thin layer having a composition gradient and a method for the production of the thin layer. According to the method, the thin layer is produced by subjecting a mixture of one or more organic materials and one or more inorganic materials to a sol-gel process. The composition gradient and the surface energy of the thin layer are controlled during production, leaving no interfacial failure defects. |
| US09056328B2 |
Air gun
The air gun comprises a substantially cylindrical-shaped external case (2), provided at one end with a connection element (8) suitable to enable the connection of the air gun (1) with a device for supplying a fluid to be sprayed, and provided at the opposite end with an expulsion device (10) suitable to enable the outlet of the fluid to be sprayed towards the outside. Inside the case (2) is arranged a vortex generator device (9) provided with a plurality of internal walls (91) having curvilinear profiles. The walls (91) define a plurality of separated helical pipes (93), in order to give the fluid to be sprayed a helical rotatory motion. |
| US09056326B2 |
Device for thermally coating a surface
A device for the thermal coating of a surface, having a wire supply unit for the supply of a wire, wherein the wire acts as a first electrode, a source for plasma gas for generating a plasma gas stream, a nozzle body with a nozzle opening through which the plasma gas stream is conducted as a plasma gas jet to one wire end, and a second electrode which is arranged in the plasma gas stream before the latter enters into the nozzle opening The device is characterized in that the wire supply unit is adjustable, whereby the wire end situated in front of the nozzle opening can be moved by a certain adjustment travel. In this way, it is possible for installation tolerances in the device to be easily compensated, and high and consistent quality of the coating is attained. |
| US09056324B2 |
Spraying device apparatus
A spraying device includes a housing that has a spraying unit and a trigger assembly. The spraying unit is a removable insert within the housing. The spraying unit includes an air chamber that is coupled to a liquid tank. A front end portion of the air chamber has a nozzle. The air chamber receives a liquid tube that opens in the nozzle. The liquid tube receives a needle and the needle and the liquid tube are coaxial with each other. The trigger assembly controls the flow of liquid through the liquid tube by positioning a tapered front end of the needle. The trigger assembly includes a trigger that has a first position and a second position. In the first position, the opening of the liquid tube is closed by the needle. In a second position, the liquid tube is opened to discharge a liquid from an opening of the liquid tube. |
| US09056319B2 |
Gas cleaning separator
The present invention relates to a separator and more specifically, but not exclusively, to a centrifugal separator for the cleaning of a gaseous fluid. A centrifugal separator is provided as comprising a housing defining an inner space, and a rotor assembly for imparting a rotary motion onto a mixture of substances to be separated. The rotor assembly is located in said inner space and is rotatable about an axis relative to the housing. The rotor assembly comprises an inlet for receiving said mixture of substances, an outlet from which said substances are ejected from the rotor assembly during use, and a flow path for providing fluid communication between the inlet and outlet, wherein the outlet is positioned more radially outward from said axis than the inlet. |
| US09056317B2 |
Tissue container for molecular and histology diagnostics incorporating a breakable membrane
A container for storing a biological sample for molecular diagnostic testing and/or histological testing is provided. The container includes a first chamber for receiving a sample holder therein, a second chamber, and a closure for enclosing the container. A breakable membrane, such as a piercable foil, extends within the container and separates the two chambers. When the breakable membrane is broken, fluid can pass between the first and second chambers. The membrane may be broken through an activator on the closure, such as a depressible member or a rotatable carrier, causing the sample holder to break through the membrane. |
| US09056315B2 |
Dual phase catalysts system for mixed olefin hydrations
The catalyst systems include a dual phase catalyst system that includes a water soluble acid catalyst and a solid acid catalyst. |
| US09056311B2 |
Method for making molecular sieve SSZ-96
A method for making a new crystalline molecular sieve designated SSZ-96 is disclosed using a 1-butyl-1-methyl-octahydroindolium cation as a structure directing agent. |
| US09056300B2 |
Ozone gas generation unit and ozone gas supply system
In the present invention, a gas pipe integrated block has a plurality of internal pipe paths. The plurality of internal pipe paths are connected to an ozone generator, control means, a raw gas supply port, an ozone gas output port, and cooling water inlet/outlet ports, to thereby form a unit in which a raw gas input pipe path and an ozone gas output pipe path are integrated. The raw gas input pipe path extends from the raw gas supply port through an automatic pressure controller to the ozone generator. The ozone gas output pipe path extends from the ozone generator through a gas filter, an ozone concentration meter, and a flow rate controller, to the ozone gas output port. |
| US09056299B2 |
Scale-up of flow-focusing microfluidic devices
Parallel uses of microfluidic methods and devices for focusing and/or forming discontinuous sections of similar or dissimilar size in a fluid are described. In some aspects, the present invention relates generally to flow-focusing-type technology, and also to microfluidics, and more particularly parallel use of microfluidic systems arranged to control a dispersed phase within a dispersant, and the size, and size distribution, of a dispersed phase in a multi-phase fluid system, and systems for delivery of fluid components to multiple such devices. |
| US09056297B2 |
Integrated vacuum resid to chemicals conversion process
A process and apparatus for cracking a hydrocarbon feed containing resid, comprising: heating a hydrocarbon feedstock containing resid; passing said heated hydrocarbon feedstock to a vapor/liquid separator; flashing said heated hydrocarbon feedstock in said vapor/liquid separator to form a vapor phase and a liquid phase containing said resid; passing at least a portion of said resid-containing liquid phase from said vapor/liquid separator to a thermal conversion reactor operating at 649° C. or more, wherein the thermal conversion reactor contains coke particles; and converting at least a portion of said resid into olefins. |
| US09056296B2 |
Apparatus for manufacturing fine particles and toner
An apparatus for manufacturing fine particles is provided. The apparatus includes a liquid droplet discharge device and a liquid droplet solidification device. The liquid droplet discharge device has multiple nozzles. The liquid droplet discharge device is adapted to discharge a liquid from the multiple nozzles to form the liquid into liquid droplets. The liquid comprises a solvent in which constituents of the fine particles are dissolved or dispersed or a melt of constituents of the fine particles. The liquid droplet solidification device is adapted to solidify the liquid droplets by an airflow. The multiple nozzles are arranged in a manner such that each of the nozzles does not overlap each other relative to a direction of the airflow. |
| US09056294B2 |
Particle pump methods and devices
Methods and devices are provided for transfer of particulate material, such as biomass feedstocks, into and out of pressurized reactors. Improved sluice devices have an L-shaped sluice chamber having an upper, vertical component in communication with a horizontal loading chamber and a lower component in communication with a vertical reactor inlet or outlet. Piston valves seal the sluice inlet and outlet by axial displacement across the vertical component of the sluice chamber and across the vertical reactor inlet or outlet. Relative to other methods for reactor unloading, these devices consume less steam and significantly reduce furfural content of unloaded, pretreated biomass. An optional hybrid plug/sluice method of biomass feeding using the devices permits biomass loading at sluice pressures intermediate between atmospheric and reactor pressure, thereby reducing “pump cycle” time and increasing biomass throughput capacity. |
| US09056291B2 |
Microfluidic reactor system
A compact device for operatively coupling a solid planar substrate, for example a glass slide, to a microfluidic circuit and performing a reaction or reactions on organic matter bound to the face of the planar substrate. Typical reactions include binding, staining and/or labeling reactions. In use, a sealed reaction chamber is formed, the chamber enclosing the organic matter and at least a part of the solid substrate. Headspace in the sealed chamber between the solid substrate is generally of microfluidic dimensions, and diaphragm pump members are used to inject, exchange and/or mix the fluids in the chamber. |
| US09056290B2 |
Kneading system with closed-type rubber kneader
The system includes: a closed-type rubber kneader that kneads kneading materials that include raw rubber and carbon black; a rotation meter of a rotor; a power meter that measures the instantaneous power required to drive the rotation of the rotor; and a calculation device to which the measurement data is input. The calculation device calculates an evaluation index that evaluates the kneading efficiency of the kneader based on the total amount of shear calculated by integrating the shear velocity applied to the kneading materials by the rotor over the kneading time, and a unit work calculated by dividing the integrated power obtained by integrating the instantaneous power over the kneading time by the mass of the kneading materials. |
| US09056289B2 |
Droplet creation techniques
The present invention is generally related to systems and methods for producing droplets. The droplets may contain varying species, e.g., for use as a library. In some cases, at least one droplet is used to create a plurality of droplets, using techniques such as flow-focusing techniques. In one set of embodiments, a plurality of droplets, containing varying species, can be divided to form a collection of droplets containing the various species therein. A collection of droplets, according to certain embodiments, may contain various subpopulations of droplets that all contain the same species therein. Such a collection of droplets may be used as a library in some cases, or may be used for other purposes. |
| US09056285B2 |
Gas separation membrane
A gas separation membrane having a polyimide structure. The polyimide structure is provided to contain a repeating unit represented by general formula (1): wherein R1 is a divalent organic group represented by general formula (2): or a divalent organic group represented by general formula (3): |
| US09056283B2 |
Facilitated transport membrane for the separation of aromatics from non-aromatics
Certain embodiments of the invention provide an apparatus for separating aromatic hydrocarbons from an aromatic hydrocarbon feed stream. The apparatus includes a membrane support, and a hydrophilic polymer membrane matrix disposed on the membrane support. The hydrophilic polymer membrane matrix includes an effective amount of polyvinyl alcohol and an effective amount of sodium alginate. The apparatus further includes a carrier agent bonded to the hydrophilic polymer membrane matrix using a cross-linking agent. The carrier agent exhibits a greater affinity for aromatics compared to aliphatics. The apparatus further includes a membrane housing configured to hold the membrane support. The membrane housing includes an inlet, a permeate outlet, and a retentate outlet, the inlet being operable to receive the aromatic hydrocarbon feed stream, the permeate outlet being operable to discharge a permeate stream, and the retentate outlet being operable to discharge a retentate stream. |
| US09056279B1 |
Systems and methods for controlling emissions in an internal combustion engine through the control of temperature at the inlet of an ammonia slip catalyst assembly
A method and system for controlling emissions in an engine, includes establishing a desired first temperature at an inlet (116) of an ammonia slip catalyst assembly (115); and determining a second temperature associated with a temperature at the inlet of the ammonia slip catalyst assembly (115). If the second temperature is higher than the desired first temperature, then directing an air injector (135) to add air to the inlet (116) of the ammonia slip catalyst assembly (115). |
| US09056274B2 |
System and method for controlling and reducing NOx emissions
A system includes a gas production source configured to produce a gas stream comprising nitrogen oxides (NOx) and a hydrocarbon injector disposed downstream of the gas production source and configured to inject a hydrocarbon into the gas stream. The hydrocarbon is configured to oxidize molecules of the NOx in the gas stream to produce a higher order compound of nitrogen and oxygen (NyOz). The system also includes a removal device disposed downstream of the hydrocarbon injector. The removal device is configured to remove the NyOz from the gas stream via absorption or reaction. |
| US09056267B2 |
Filtration device
A filtration device with filters that can be backwashed with purified water switches between water purification, first backwashing, and second backwashing modes, depending on a pivot position of a valve. During the first backwashing mode, while a tap water inlet is in communication with a second tap water passage port, first and second purified water passage ports are blocked from communication with a purified water outlet, so purified water from a second filter flows backward through a first filter and is discharged from a drain water outlet. During the second backwashing mode, while the tap water inlet is in communication with a first tap water passage port, first and second purified water passage ports are blocked from communication with the purified water outlet, so purified water from the first filter flows backward through the second filter and is discharged from the drain water outlet. |
| US09056265B2 |
Isolated bioactive compounds and method of use
Bioactive compounds extracted from a fermentation broth created by a unique microbial community during a fermentation process and fractionated into several fractions based on size. Four of the resulting fractions stimulate growth of plants that are planted in soil to which the fractions have been applied. The fractions can be applied to the soil individually or combined together prior to application. In another embodiment, the unique fractions can be freeze dried or spray dried. |
| US09056263B2 |
Chalcogenide compounds for the remediation of nuclear and heavy metal wastes
Chalcogenide compounds, including ternary and quaternary tin and antimony chalcogenides, for use as absorbents in the remediation of hazardous materials are provided. Also provided are methods for using the chalcogenides in the remediation of ionic and elemental metals from aqueous and non-aqueous fluids. |
| US09056261B2 |
Water desalination system
An improved water desalination system is disclosed, in which contaminated water such as seawater or brackish water is preheated and fed into a primary pressure vessel through a distribution head. The seawater is distributed from the distribution head over a non-adherent surface such as a plurality of silicone chords hanging below a distribution tank or a cone- and cylindrical-shaped surface. The water is exposed to a high temperature steam environment in the chamber to cause at least a portion of the water in the contaminated water to evaporate, while the remaining concentrated salts from the contaminated water fall to the bottom of the chamber. A portion of the steam in the primary pressure vessel is withdrawn to be condensed into fresh water. The energy withdrawn with the steam extracted from the primary pressure vessel is made up by a supplemental energy apparatus, such as a steam generator. |
| US09056260B2 |
Toy construction system
A toy construction system includes a block component and a connector component. The connector component has a connector-to-block coupling section for releasable coupling to the block component and a connector-to-connector coupling section for releasable coupling to a substantially similar connecting component. The connector-to-block coupling section defines a connector block contacting surface for contacting the block component. The coupling aperture defines a peripheral edge retaining section made out of a substantially resiliently deformable material. The peripheral edge retaining section is configured, sized and positioned so that when the block and connector components are in a component assembled configuration, the connector block contacting surface substantially deforms the peripheral edge retaining section to a retaining configuration for positively retaining the latter; and when the connector block contacting surface is spaced from the peripheral retaining section, the latter resiliently springs back to a non-retaining configuration. |
| US09056256B2 |
System and methods for identifying intrinsic motivators, play profiles and play personalities through captured actions in an online environment
Techniques are described herein for automatically determining a play personality of a user. Play personalities develop from play type and play patterns, which may be automatically determined by computing devices based on that user/subject's information and actions. Furthermore, in a gaming environment, the play personality of the user/subject may be represented by an avatar, doppelganger, narrative, graphic or iconic depiction. The play personality may be determined based on the avatar or doppelganger's actions, which may include but are not limited to how they respond to questions posed by non-playing characters and/or the avatars or doppelgangers of other users. Once determined, the play personality may be used as a basis for identifying and integrating intrinsic motivators and integrating user-centric design which can alter some aspect of the game environment, such as the appearance of the avatar, or the nature of a quest, or means for identifying or exploring solutions in gamification. |
| US09056255B2 |
Game controller, game machine, and game system using the game controller
A game controller, a game machine, and a game system including the game system. The game controller is a device for manipulating a game program, and at least a portion of a body portion of the game controller is deformable to have forms that are adapted to contents of a game. Accordingly, a physical sensation when a user plays a game may be improved. |
| US09056254B2 |
Time-of-flight camera with guided light
A gaming system comprising a time-of-flight 3D camera and related method for illuminating a camera field of view and capturing return image light are disclosed herein. In one example, the time-of-flight 3D camera includes a light source configured to emit source light along an optical axis, and a collimator configured to receive and collimate the source light to create collimated light. A refractive diffuser is operable to be tuned to the camera field of view and configured to receive and diffuse the collimated light to create refracted light having a varying intensity profile. The refractive diffuser is further configured to guide the refracted light to illuminate only a portion of the camera field of view to reduce wasted source light. |
| US09056248B2 |
System and method for detecting inappropriate content in virtual worlds
A system for detecting inappropriate content in a virtual world environment has and a corresponding method utilizes a rating unit for rating each of one or more virtual objects based upon its content. The system has and the method utilizes a tagging unit for tagging each of the one or more virtual objects with its respective rating, an object tagging database for storing ratings of the one or more virtual objects, and a policy database for storing policies associated with the ratings and the regions. Further the system has and the method utilizes an object monitor for monitoring the movement of each of the one or more virtual objects, a security scanner for scanning each of the one or more virtual objects to determine the rating of each of the one or more virtual objects, and an enforcement module to enforce the policies of the policy database based upon the rating and the respective region. |
| US09056241B2 |
Roller skate
A roller skate having enhanced durability and stability is disclosed. Furthermore, the roller skate is particularly adapted for affixing to a person's footwear, such as sneakers, boots or the like. The skate includes a platform for supporting a skater's foot. The platform includes a toe plate and heel plate connected by an adjustable connecting assembly. A front truck is affixed to the underside of the toe plate, while a rear truck is affixed to the underside of the heel plate. The front truck includes simple bracket arms for affixing a single front wheel which is capable of rotating, but not capable of tilting about the platform's longitudinal axis. Meanwhile, the rear wheel truck is mounted to the underside of the heel plate so as to permit both tilting movement about an inclined longitudinal axis, and also rotation about a transverse axis relative to the roller skate's platform. Preferably, the roller skate includes three wheels rotatably mounted to the rear wheel truck. A button projects upwardly from the roller skate's rear truck so as to engage a skater's heel when it is placed upon the roller skate's platform. The button is connected to the roller skate's connecting assembly so that depression of the button causes the platform to unlock from an extending condition to allow the skate to automatically contract to capture a skater's foot. |
| US09056240B2 |
Apparatus for simulating motion in a virtual environment
This is directed to systems, processes, machines, and other means that simulate motion in a virtual environment. The invention comprising a constraining element and footwear that allow the user freedom of movement while limiting one to a circumscribed area. As the user moves within the circumscribed area ones movements are continuously recreated in virtual space simulating similar movements through the virtual space which are then displayed for the user. |
| US09056233B2 |
Lower corner connector for modular sports goal
A lower corner connector for a modular sports goal comprises a first tube having a generally circular inner surface and a second tube extending substantially perpendicularly to the first tube. The first tube has an open end for receiving an upright and a base opposite the open end for resting on a surface. A retainer projects inwardly from the inner surface of the first tube for engaging and retaining the upright and permitting the upright to rock toward and away from the second tube within the first tube to assist in absorbing impact forces. |
| US09056228B2 |
Variable density core golf balls
A golf ball is provided having a modified density gradient among the inner layers to produce a desired high or low moment of inertia and controlled spin rate is disclosed. The golf ball has three or more inner layers in addition to a cover, and the density of the inner layers is selected such that the layers inside the cover have a density progression from the core to the cover or from the cover to the core. |
| US09056227B2 |
Golf ball comprising a core having a shallow hardness gradient
A golf ball comprising: a core having an outer surface and a geometric center and being formed from a substantially homogenous rubber composition comprising a carbon-carbon initiator, wherein the outer surface has a hardness that differs from a hardness at the geometric center by up to about 10 Shore C; optionally an intermediate layer disposed about the core; and a cover layer disposed about the core (or intermediate layer where present). |
| US09056225B2 |
Golf balls having multi-layered cores with thermoset outer layer
Multi-piece golf balls containing a multi-layered core structure are provided. The core structure includes a small, heavy inner core (center) having a relatively high specific gravity, an intermediate core layer, and a surrounding outer core layer. The layers of the core structure may have different hardness gradients. The center of the core comprises a metal material such as copper, steel, brass, tungsten, titanium, aluminum, and alloys thereof. The intermediate core layer is preferably formed from a first thermoset composition such as polybutadiene rubber, and the outer core layer is preferably formed from a second thermoset composition. The resulting ball has high resiliency and good spin control. |
| US09056224B2 |
Method of making multi-color golf ball having discontinuous colored coating and resulting multi-color golf ball
The invention relates to making a golf ball having an overall purely aesthetic color appearance of two or more visually distinct color regions by partially painting/coating a portion the golf ball outer surface one or more times with a colorant. The invention also relates to the resulting golf ball. |
| US09056223B2 |
Color golf ball
The present invention is directed to a golf ball comprising a core, a cover and optionally an intermediate layer disposed between the core and the cover which in any combination comprise at least two color contributing components, each of which comprises a colorant that contributes to an overall golf ball color, the color contributing components having different hues and different saturations, wherein the hue and saturation and a chroma of each contributing component contributes to an overall golf ball hue, saturation and chroma such that: the overall golf ball hue is different than the hue of each color contributing component; the overall golf ball saturation is different than the saturation of at least one of the color contributing components; and the overall golf ball chroma is different than the chroma of at least one of the color contributing components. |
| US09056219B2 |
Volumetric weight system for enhancing fitness
A volumetric weight system with an elongated handle is provided as a fitness tool used in performing a plurality of exercise routines unique to the volumetric weight system. The present invention accomplishes this through the use of an elongated handle centrally attached to a spherically shaped volumetric weight. The elongated handle provides the present invention with a maniputable surface that enables the user to vary the intensity of their work out by repositioning their hands relative to the volumetric weight. The volumetric weight is centrally attached to elongated handle providing balance while performing a plurality of exercises. The volumetric weight system utilizes an interchangeable engagement for the purposes of switching between weighted components during a workout without complicated disassembly steps. Additionally, the present invention is provided with secondary weights that are attach to the volumetric weight in order to slight vary the resistance of an exercise routines. |
| US09056218B2 |
Resistance training device and method of use
An exercise training device which includes a harness that is worn on the exterior of the foot or shoe of a user, and an elastic resistance cord that releasably attaches to the harness, such that the connection between the elastic resistance cord and harness is positioned at the heel of the user. The exercise training device is used to improve the strength and balance of a user. For example, use of the device improves the throwing motion of a baseball pitcher. |
| US09056217B2 |
Stationary exercise apparatus
A stationary exercise apparatus includes a frame, a driving wheel assembly, two treading units, and a flywheel assembly. The flywheel assembly has a driven wheel. The driven wheel and the driving wheel assembly are positioned coaxially and pivotally. The treading units are arranged in a four-link manner and can actuate the driving wheel assembly. The driving wheel assembly drives the driven wheel to rotate at an inertial operating speed higher than the rotation speed of the driving wheel assembly. After being actuated, the stationary exercise apparatus operates continuously because of inertial rotation of the driven wheel. During their operation, pedals of the treading units keep lying on the same horizontal plane to thereby enable the user to tread smoothly and lower the prevalence of sports injuries. |
| US09056215B2 |
Half-pipe trampoline
A half-pipe trampoline is comprised of a horizontal trampoline runway with inclined trampoline beds angled approximately 45-53 degrees relative to the surface of the horizontal trampoline runway. The inclined trampoline beds are positioned all along the length of the horizontal trampoline runway, thus creating a three-dimensional corridor or track of flexible trampoline surface for the participants.The inclined trampoline beds are connected directly to the horizontal trampoline runway, rather than to a rigid frame. To accomplish this, rigid frames are positioned around the periphery of the trampoline surfaces rather than underneath those surfaces, keeping them well away from the trampoline surfaces. Chains and springs are used to span the distance between frames and the horizontal trampoline runway. Additional chain is stretched from the horizontal trampoline runway to the floor to keep the inclined trampoline beds from pulling on the horizontal trampoline runway. |
| US09056214B2 |
Watering device equipped with a deflector having an uneven surface
A watering device for irrigation of non-circular areas is disclosed. The watering device comprises a deflector having an uneven curved surface designed to cause liquid meeting the deflector to reach a distance that changes respective of the uneven surface to cover an irrigation area; a spiral sector object connected to the deflector and providing an adjustable spray orifice for adjusting an irrigation pattern of the watering device; and a two-diameter tubular body connected to the spiral sector object and allowing the liquid to flow from a pipe to the uneven curved surface of the deflector. |
| US09056203B2 |
Treating bacteria with electric fields
Cells that are in the process division are vulnerable to damage by AC electric fields that have specific frequency and field strength characteristics. The selective destruction of rapidly dividing cells can therefore be accomplished by imposing an AC electric field in a target region for extended periods of time at particular frequencies with particular filed strengths. Some of the cells that divide while the field is applied will be damaged, but the cells that do not divide will not be harmed. This selectively damages rapidly dividing cells like bacteria, but does not harm normal cells that are not dividing. Since the vulnerability of the dividing cells is strongly related to the alignment between the long axis of the dividing cells and the lines of force of the electric field, improved results can be obtained when the field is sequentially imposed in different directions. |
| US09056200B2 |
Apparatus and methods for delivery of fluid injection boluses to patients and handling harmful fluids
A hazardous fluid transport container and a hazardous fluid delivery system are disclosed. The hazardous fluid transport container includes a housing enclosing an at least partially shielded enclosure. First and second fluid path elements are disposed within the housing, with the first fluid path element and second fluid path element fluidly coupled together. A pump unit may be provided for dispensing fluid from the first and second fluid path elements optionally into a third fluid path element. Also, methods for priming the hazardous fluid transport container and for mitigating laminar flow injection bolus spreading are disclosed. Additionally, disclosed is a radioactive fluid transport container for a syringe or other container. The radioactive fluid transport container allows the syringe or container to be used in an injection procedure without removal from the container. |
| US09056197B2 |
Selective stimulation systems and signal parameters for medical conditions
Devices, systems and methods are provided for targeted treatment of a variety of conditions, particularly conditions that are associated with or influenced by the nervous system, such as pain. Targeted treatment of such conditions is provided with minimal deleterious side effects, such as undesired motor responses or undesired stimulation of unaffected body regions. This is achieved by directly neuromodulating a target anatomy associated with the condition while minimizing or excluding undesired neuromodulation of other anatomies. |
| US09056196B2 |
Cochlear electrode array
A cochlear lead includes a plurality of electrode assemblies partially embedded in a flexible body configured to stimulate an auditory nerve from within a cochlea. Each of the electrode assemblies includes a flexible electrically conductive material forming a plurality of support structures and an electrode pad attached a support structure, the electrode pad having a surface that is configured to be exposed to cochlear tissue and fluids and has a charge transfer to the cochlear tissue and fluids that is higher than the flexible electrically conductive material. |
| US09056194B2 |
Lead set for nerve stimulator and method of operation thereof
Single-use electrical leads for a nerve stimulator are disclosed. The nerve stimulator has a “test mode” that determines a current value for treatment, and a “therapy mode” that administers treatment with the chosen current value. Preferably the fuse is electrically isolated from the leads that contact the patient. |
| US09056192B2 |
Stretch valve balloon catheter and methods for producing and using same
A safety catheter includes a flexible, multi-lumen shaft having an outer diameter, a distal tip, a proximal catheter end with a drain end and a proximal inflation end. The multi-lumen shaft defines a drain lumen, a distal hollow balloon portion, at least one inflation lumen, and a drainage port. A hollow stretch valve is coaxially disposed in the drainage lumen, has a fixed portion within the drainage lumen just proximal of an increased stretching portion, and prevents fluid from passing through the drainage port in a steady state. The stretch valve has a sliding portion slidably disposed within the drainage lumen such that, in a stretched state when the proximal catheter end is stretched, the sliding portion slides within the drainage lumen to permit fluid to pass through the balloon drainage port and/or inner wall of the catheter. |
| US09056189B2 |
Guide wire
A guide wire includes a first wire disposed on the distal side, and a second wire disposed on the proximal side and made from a material having an elastic modulus larger than that of the first wire. The first wire and the second wire are joined to each other by welding. The second wire has, in the vicinity of the welded portion, a small cross-sectional area portion having a cross-sectional area smaller than that of a proximal end portion of the first wire. The outer diameter of the small cross-sectional area portion is gradually reduced in the direction toward the distal end. The first wire and the second wire may be welded to each other by a butt resistance welding process. Since the change in rigidity of the guide wire becomes smooth in the longitudinal direction, the operationality and kink resistance of the guide wire are improved. |
| US09056188B2 |
Needle shielding flag structures
An extravascular system for accessing the vasculature of a patient may include a catheter, a needle disposed within the catheter, and/or a needle tip shield assembly. The needle tip shield assembly may have a needle cap, the needle cap may have a needle shield, and the needle shield may have one or more flags. The flags may include a first flag and a second flag. The first flag and the second flag may form an engageable barrier through which the needle cannot penetrate once the barrier is engaged. The needle shield may be a V-clip. The V-clip may include a first arm and a second arm, and the first flag may be secured to the first arm while the second flag may be secured to the second arm. |
| US09056184B2 |
Methods for renal denervation
Various agents are described to denerve, modulate, or otherwise affect the renal nerves and other neural tissue. Also, various delivery devices are described to deliver an agent locally to the renal nerves. The delivery devices are positioned in the renal artery and penetrate into the wall of the renal artery to deliver the agent to the renal nerves. The delivery devices may be used to deliver the agent according to longitudinal position, radial position, and depth of the renal nerves relative to the renal artery. In addition, various methods are described to denervate, modulate, or otherwise affect the renal nerves and other neural tissue. |
| US09056173B2 |
Dry powder inhaler
The present invention provides a dry-powder inhaler device comprising: a casing; an air inlet located at a first terminus of the casing; a powder delivery port located at a second terminus of the casing, which is positioned distal to the air inlet; and an elongated assembly located within an interior of the casing. A first terminus is located proximally to the air inlet, a second terminus is located proximally to the powder delivery port, and the assembly is fitted within the casing such that said assembly partially rotates therein about a single axis. The assembly has at least one compartment containing dry-powder, which is located proximally to the second terminus. The compartment with a dry-powder comprises a porous structure encasing the dry-powder; whereby airflow through the device causes the assembly to partially rotate within the casing about a single axis and release the dry-powder in the airflow. |
| US09056172B2 |
Automatic pressure titration
A pressure support methodology and system that utilizes at least two, and possibly all three, of information relating to (i) airway patency, i.e., the degree to which the patient's airway is open, (ii) the primary cause of the current sleep disordered breathing event, and (iii) the patient's response to previous pressure changes to automatically titrate pressure when presented with a sleep disordered breathing event. In another embodiment, pressure may be automatically titrated based solely on the primary cause of the sleep disordered breathing event. |
| US09056170B2 |
Devices, systems and methods for medicament delivery
An apparatus includes a housing, a needle, a first energy storage member and a second energy storage member. The needle is movably disposed within the housing and is configured to be to be placed in fluid communication with a medicament container. The needle is configured to move between a first position and a second position. In its first position, the needle is contained within the housing. In its second position, at least a portion of the needle extends from the housing. The first energy storage member is disposed within the housing, and is configured to produce a first force when actuated. The second energy storage member is disposed within the housing, and is configured to be actuated in response to the first force to produce a second force to move the needle from the first needle position to the second needle position. |
| US09056158B2 |
Manifold and strainer assembly
A waste collection manifold assembly 10 has a housing 13 and a strainer 80. The housing 13 has at least one input port 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D for receiving waste collection products 1 through a vacuum line 4. The housing 13 includes an interior chamber 11 for receiving the waste collection products 1 and a fluid discharge port 14 for passing fluids 6 into a waste collection unit 2. The strainer 80 is located in the chamber 11 and above the fluid discharge port 14. The at least one inlet port 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D is positioned to open alongside an interior chamber wall 13A of the housing 13 above the strainer 80 to direct the flow of the waste collection products 1 in a downward swirl along the interior chamber wall 13 A toward the strainer 80. |
| US09056155B1 |
Coatings having an elastic primer layer
Provided herein is a coating an elastic primer layer and the method of making and using the same. |
| US09056154B2 |
High-yield activation of polymer surfaces for covalent attachment of molecules
Polymer surfaces coated with organometallic layers, wherein the organometallic layers and polymer surfaces have functional groups that react to bond the organometallic layer to the polymer surface with organometallic functional groups remaining unreacted for the subsequent covalent attachment of organic overlayers. Coating methods and coated articles are also disclosed. |
| US09056145B2 |
Self-contained, self-cleaning aqueous liquid sterilizer
A flow through aqueous liquid sterilization apparatus which employs substantially fixed temperatures and pressures and variable flow rates through the apparatus for controllably processing aqueous liquids to achieve predetermined values of SALs. This apparatus is also self-contained and self-cleaning using steam generated by reducing pressure during normal operation, as well as inhibiting growth of contaminating species during intermittent system shut-down periods. |
| US09056142B2 |
Isotope production method
The present invention relates to a method for the generation of 223Ra of pharmaceutically tolerable purity comprising: i) preparing a generator mixture comprising 227Ac, 227Th and 223Ra in a first aqueous solution comprising a first mineral acid; ii) loading said generator mixture onto a DGA separation medium (e.g. resin); iii) eluting said 223Ra from said DGA separation medium using a second mineral acid in a second aqueous solution to give an eluted 223Ra solution; and iv) stripping the DGA separation medium of said 227Ac and 227Th by flowing a third mineral acid in a third aqueous solution through the DGA separation medium in a reversed direction; The invention further relates to high purity radium-223 formed or formable by such a method as well as pharmaceutical compositions comprising such radium-223 of pharmaceutical purity. |
| US09056141B2 |
Thiol-ene click chemistry for drug conjugates
The present invention relates to linker molecules that readily conjugate cellular recognition ligand at one end and drug payload at the other, and are useful in treating or preventing cancer, an autoimmune disease, an inflammatory condition, a central nervous system disorder or an infection. The linker inker molecules of the invention are represented by Formula I, II and III; Linker-Drug compounds represented by Formula IV, V and VI; and Ligand-Linker-Drug conjugates represented by Formula VII, VIII and IX: |
| US09056135B2 |
MicroRNA biomarkers for human breast and lung cancer
The present invention relates to novel molecular markers for diagnosis and classification of human breast cancer and lung cancer. |
| US09056134B2 |
Single daily dosage form for prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome
The present invention is in the fields of medicine, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, endocrinology and cardiology. The invention provides compositions comprising a statin, an inhibitor of the angiotensin converting enzyme, an antiplatelet compound and an anti-hyperglycemic compound for use in the treatment and/or prevention of cardiometabolic risk factors of Metabolic Syndrome and treatment and/or prevention of Metabolic Syndrome. The present invention provides for the use of such compositions in the manufacture of products for treatment and/or prevention of Metabolic Syndrome. The biguanide metformin of the composition could be present in extended release form allowing its use together with the other drugs in a single dosage form at low dose. This combination of drugs in a single daily dosage greatly improves compliance and adherence to treatment which is a critical factor for treating patients with Metabolic Syndrome. |
| US09056130B2 |
Humanized Fc gamma R mice
Genetically modified non-human animals and methods and compositions for making and using them are provided, wherein the genetic modification comprises a deletion of the endogenous low affinity FcγR locus, and wherein the mouse is capable of expressing a functional FcRγ-chain. Genetically modified mice are described, including mice that express low affinity human FcγR genes from the endogenous FcγR locus, and wherein the mice comprise a functional FcRγ-chain. Genetically modified mice that express up to five low affinity human FcγR genes on accessory cells of the host immune system are provided. |
| US09056125B2 |
Films for controlled cell growth and adhesion
An article for controlling the attachment and growth of cells on a surface of the article, and a method for the use of the article is provided. The article comprises a substratum having a surface and a film on the surface, the film comprising a network of a net positively charged composition and a net negatively charged composition, wherein the net positively charged composition comprises a net positively charged polyelectrolyte or the net negatively charged composition comprises a net negatively charged polyelectrolyte, and the net positively charged polyelectrolyte or the net negatively charged polyelectrolyte contain (i) a polymer repeat unit having at least two fluorine atoms, or (ii) a polymer repeat unit having a zwitterion group. The method comprises contacting the article with living tissue, living organisms, or with water in an aqueous system comprising living organisms. |
| US09056122B2 |
Method for inhibition of blood phosphorus level elevation
The present invention provides a method for inhibiting blood phosphorus level elevation, including administering to a patient in need thereof a composition comprising a lactic acid bacterium as an active ingredient. The method may further include encapsulating the composition comprising a lactic acid bacterium in a capsule. The inhibitor for blood phosphorus level elevation of the present invention is highly safe, is readily administrable, and can sufficiently inhibit a blood phosphorus level elevation. |
| US09056119B2 |
VEGF production promoter
Provided are a VEGF production promoter, a hair quality improver, and an external preparation for skin, each of which has a VEGF production promoting activity and can be used as a pharmaceutical agent, a cosmetic, a food, or a material therefor.The VEGF production promoter, the hair quality improver, and the external preparation for skin each comprises, as an active ingredient, a cycloartane-type glycoside represented by the following general formula (1) (where R represents a xylose residue or an arabinose residue, and the ring D moiety represents any one of the following moieties a to f (where R1 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, R2 represents a hydrogen atom or an acetyl group, R3 represents a hydrogen atom or a hydroxyl, group, R4 represents a hydrogen atom or a hydroxyl group, and Ac represents an acetyl group)). |
| US09056113B2 |
Steeped herbal anti-bacterial body water for consumption and topical use—the thyme lavender oregano mint neem solution for acne, eyelash and pore cleansing, wrinkles, body odors, breath freshening, vaginal douching, toenail fungus, blephritis
This innovation is a unique, natural, CONSUMABLE and topical treatment for many of my body's ailments that has helped me in ways other products never did. The anti-bacterial herbs appear to fight the root cause of the many ailments listed, instead of just masking them.It cleansed my pores for acne. I sprayed it in and on my eyes. It gently allowed sebaceous debris, often called eye mucous, to painlessly ooze away from eyelash pores and other eye glands like NO other product I have heard of. It unclogged the micro eyelid circulation, greatly reducing the puffiness we all get with age. Cleaning pores allowed skin to heal itself better, reducing wrinkles and acne scars.It naturally kills bacteria that cause odors under your arms and orally. It is consumable, so it works safely all the way down the back of the tongue where scrappers and chemical washes can't reach. |
| US09056111B1 |
Selective efflux inhibitors and related pharmaceutical compositions and methods of treatment
The present invention provides pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine compounds which inhibit cancer-associated transporter proteins, methods of treating or preventing the onset of a cancer-associated transporter protein-mediated disease by administering such compounds, and pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds. In one embodiment, the invention provides pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine efflux inhibitors that are selective toward ABCG2 over ABCB1. Compounds and compositions according to the present invention may be used to treat cancer, including drug resistant (DR) and multiple drug resistant (MDR) cancers. |
| US09056106B2 |
Unit dose formulation of antidotes for factor Xa inhibitors and methods of using the same
The present invention relates unit dose formulations of antidotes to anticoagulants targeting factor Xa. Disclosed herein are methods of stopping or preventing bleeding in a patient that is currently undergoing anticoagulant therapy with a factor Xa inhibitor. |
| US09056103B2 |
Methods using 3-(4-amino-1-oxo-1,3-dihydro-isoindol-2-yl)-piperidine-2,6-dione for treatment of certain leukemias
Methods of treating, preventing or managing leukemias are disclosed. The methods encompass the administration of an immunomodulatory compound of the invention known as Revlimid® or lenalidomide. The invention further relates to methods of treatment using this compound with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, biological therapy or immunotherapy. Pharmaceutical compositions and single unit dosage forms suitable for use in the methods of the invention are also disclosed. |
| US09056101B2 |
Dosing regimens for the treatment of lysosomal storage diseases using pharmacological chaperones
The present invention provides dosing regimens for administering pharmacological chaperones to a subject in need thereof. The dosing regimens can be used to treat disorders caused by improper protein misfolding, such as lysosomal storage disorders. |
| US09056098B2 |
Hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier-containing pharmaceutical composition for cancer targeting treatment and prevention of cancer recurrence
The present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition containing a hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier for treating cancer, preventing recurrence and metastasis of cancerous tumor. The composition can be used alone or in combination with at least one chemotherapeutic agent such as 5FU, Bortezomib, doxorubicin, cisplatin, or any combination thereof. The hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier in the composition is capable of targeting a surface receptor expressed on cancerous cells and facilitating the uptake of both hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier and the chemotherapeutic agent by the cancerous cells via a receptor-mediated mechanism. The hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier inhibits the expression of hypoxic response elements such as HIF1 α, VEGF, ET1, VHL, etc. The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention is also useful for inducing the apoptosis or cell death of a type of self-renewing and tumor-initiating cells called cancer stem cells which are located in the hypoxic niche of a cancerous tumor. |
| US09056095B2 |
Immunogenic composition
An immunogenic composition includes as an effective ingredient an antigen-adjuvant microparticle complex containing an antigen encapsulated in an adjuvant microparticle composed of an amphiphilic polymer(s) whose hydrophobic segment is a poly(hydroxy acid), or a particle composed of the antigen-adjuvant microparticle complex associated together, can induce a high immune response against the antigen even with a small amount of the antigen and a small number of doses, so that the immunogenic composition is useful as a vaccine effective for therapy and prophylaxis of infectious diseases, cancer and the like. |
| US09056094B2 |
Adjuvant
The present invention provides a vaccine adjuvant composition which is used in combination with an allergen vaccine, infection vaccine or tumor vaccine. The present invention specifically provides a vaccine adjuvant composition comprising hemozoin or β-hematin and being used in combination with an allergen vaccine, infection vaccine or tumor vaccine, and a vaccine composition comprising the vaccine adjuvant composition and an allergen vaccine, infection vaccine or tumor vaccine. |
| US09056093B2 |
Regeneration of pancreatic islets by amniotic fluid stem cell therapy
A method of treating diabetes in a mammalian subject is carried out by: (a) providing mammalian amniotic fluid stem cells, and then (b) administering the cells to the subject in an amount effective to treat diabetes. Optionally, the cells may be differentiated into pancreatic-like cells or at least treated to initiate subsequent differentiation into-pancreatic-like cells, prior to administration. |
| US09056091B1 |
Composition for regulation of liver X receptor
The present invention provides a composition for the regulation of Liver X Receptor (LXR) in a cell, and the composition comprises fucoxanthin and its metabolite, fucoxanthinol. The composition of the present invention regulates the transactivation activity of LXR in cell, and antagonizes the transactivation activity of LXRα and/or LXRβ induced by LXR agonists. In other aspects, the present invention also provides a method of regulating a liver X receptor. The composition for the regulation of liver X receptor and the application thereof according to the present invention can regulate the transactivation activity of LXR in cell, and can further be used as alternatives for LXR agonist or antagonist, or supplements, for enhancing LXR-related symptoms. |
| US09056090B2 |
Hepatitis C virus nucleic acid vaccine
The present invention features nucleic acid constructs that can be used as a HCV nucleic acid vaccine, vaccine component, or in the production of a HCV vaccine. Described constructs include those: (1) encoding for a chimeric HCV polypeptide containing a NS3-4A region based on a first HCV strain and an NS3-NS4A-NS4B-NS5A or an NS3-NS4A-NS4B-NS5A-NS5B region based on a second strain; and (2) a chimpanzee based adenovector encoding an HCV polypeptide. |
| US09056089B2 |
Process of preparing jambu extract, use of said extract, cosmetic compositions comprising thereof and cosmetic products comprising said cosmetic compositions
The present invention discloses a process of preparing jambu extract that results in a jambu extract free from chlorophyll and derivatives of this compound. It is a method for isolating the components of interest in a simplified way, with quite high process yield, higher than 85%. The present invention further relates to the use of this extract in preparing cosmetic compositions, the cosmetic compositions comprising said extract, and to cosmetic products comprising said cosmetic compositions. |
| US09056088B2 |
Pharmaceutical compositions comprising fatty acids
The present disclosure relates to, inter alia, methods of treating mixed dyslipidemia with ethyl eicosapentaenoate. |
| US09056084B2 |
Methods and means for soft tissue engineering
Cellfree adipose tissue extracts, implants including the same and methods for the preparation thereof. The extracts and implants are capable of inducing adipogenesis and angiogenesis and are, thus, useful in applications including soft tissue repair and engineering and angiogenesis induction, e.g., in wound healing, treatment of burn injuries and ischemic conditions. |
| US09056083B2 |
Pomegranate fruit polyphenol composition and methods of use and manufacture thereof
A pharmaceutical composition with an active pharmaceutical ingredient including a pomegranate fruit polyphenol extract. The pomegranate fruit polyphenol extract includes at least about 3% combined punicalagin A and punicalagin B by weight, less than about 5% ellagic acid and their derivatives by weight, and less than about 1% anthocyanins by weight. |
| US09056082B2 |
Multiplexer for a piezo ceramic identification device
Provided is a Fingerprint sensor using Acoustic Impediography. The sensor includes an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC or IC) and an array of mechanical resonator used as sensing elements. The array of sensing elements contains multiple sensing elements arranged in rows and columns. |
| US09056078B2 |
Particulate tissue graft with components of differing density and methods of making and using the same
Disclosed are tissue graft compositions made of particles having different densities, methods of making these compositions, and methods of using these compositions for promoting tissue restoration in a patient. |
| US09056076B2 |
Method of treating age-related macular degeneration comprising administering a compstatin analog
The present invention features the use of compstatin and complement inhibiting analogs thereof for treating and/or preventing age related macular degeneration and other conditions involving macular degeneration, choroidal neovascularization, and/or retinal neovascularization. The invention also provides compositions comprising compstatin or a complement inhibiting analog thereof and a second therapeutic agent. The invention also provides compositions comprising compstatin or a complement inhibiting analog thereof and a gel-forming material, e.g., soluble collagen, and methods of administering the compositions. |
| US09056075B2 |
Methods of inducing an immune response with compositions comprising a Neisseria meningitidis 741 protein
Two or more Neisserial proteins are joined such that they are translated as a single polypeptide chain. Hybrid proteins are represented by the formula NH2-A-[-X-L-]n-B—COOH where X is an amino acid sequence, L is an optional linker amino acid sequence. A is an optional N-terminal amino acid sequence, B is an optional C-terminal amino acid sequence, and n is an integer greater than 1. Proteins where each of the n —X— moieties shares sequence identity to each other —X— moiety, the protein is a ‘tandem protein’. |
| US09056071B2 |
Compounds and methods for preventing or treating a viral infection
A compound is provided which has a structure I: A-B-C and a method for administering the compound is also provided for use in the prophylaxis and/or treatment of a viral infection, and in particular for preventing and/or inhibiting viral replication, in which A is a quinoline or quinoline-like group, B is a sole amino acid or a peptide or polypeptide having a given amino acid sequence, and C is an O-phenoxy group. According to one embodiment, the compound is a protease inhibitor such as a caspase inhibitor, and the inhibitor can be Q-VD-OPh (N-(2-(quinolyl)valylaspartyl-(2,6-difluorophenoxy)methyl ketone), optionally in an O-methylated form. Antiviral compositions and kits are also provided. |
| US09056069B2 |
Cancer therapy based on tumor associated antigens derived from cyclin D1
The present invention relates to cyclin D1-derived peptides for use in the improved treatment of cancer in a patient, particularly in the form of a combination therapy using a vaccine. Other aspects relate to the use of the peptides or a combination thereof as a diagnostic tool. |
| US09056062B2 |
Antiperspirant aerosol composition
According to a first aspect, antiperspirant aerosol compositions are disclosed comprising antiperspirant active particulates, a propellant and at least 5% by weight of the entire antiperspirant aerosol composition of a silicone component, wherein (a) the antiperspirant active particulates are the only particulates in the antiperspirant aerosol composition; (b) the silicone component comprises one or more silicones and the or each silicone is a non-volatile silicone. According to a second aspect, packaged antiperspirant aerosol compositions according to the first aspect are disclosed. |
| US09056054B2 |
Abuse resistant oral dosage forms
Aspects of the present invention are directed to abuse resistant oral dosage forms comprising a compressed microtablet that is coated with a water-retardant polymer. Additional aspects of the present invention are directed to an oral dosage form comprising an opioid agonist and at least one compressed microtablet coated with a water retardant polymer. The compressed microtablet may comprise an opioid antagonist. |
| US09056052B1 |
Controlled release hydrocodone formulations
A solid oral controlled-release dosage form of hydrocodone is disclosed, the dosage form comprising an analgesically effective amount of hydrocodone or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and controlled release material. |
| US09056048B2 |
Synthesis and use of cationic steroids for anti-inflammatory drug therapy
The invention relates to compositions and methods for a one-step synthetic technique for making cationic steroid pharmaceutical compositions for use in treating inflammation and other diseases and disorders. |
| US09056045B2 |
Intraocular biodegradable microspheres
Biocompatible intraocular microspheres can include an active agent and a biodegradable polymer that is effective to facilitate release of the active agent into the vitreous of an eye for an extended period of time. The therapeutic agent of the microsphere can be associated with a biodegradable polymer matrix and can be made by crystallizing the active agent in the matrix. the resulting biodegradable microspheres can be placed into an eye to treat or reduce the occurrence of one or more ocular conditions. |
| US09056042B2 |
Limb positioner
The invention features devices for positioning and supporting the limb (e.g., an arm or leg) of a patient. The devices provide adjustable support for, e.g., the upper and lower leg. In addition, the device provides unfettered access to the patient's extremities and joints (e.g., the knee and portions of the leg above and below the knee). The invention further features methods of using the devices during diagnostic review, surgery, and rehabilitation. In addition, the invention features methods of treating a patient having a bone or tissue defect by using a device described herein. |
| US09056041B2 |
C-spine head stabilization device
The present invention is a device that is configured to secure a patient's head against the force of gravity during surgery (or other medical procedures) while the patient is in an upright, sideways (tilted to the side), or upside down position, or in any other non-horizontal position, for any duration of time. The device is designed to safely secure a patient's head or neck to prevent potential injury to the patient who is unconscious and unable to protect themselves through reflex reactions or otherwise. Without the device, a patient's head would drop forward or sideways by force of gravity, and if it remained in the dropped position, the patient's neck, shoulder, and/or spine regions could suffer temporary or permanent soreness, strain, and/or injury. This device is designed to reduce or eliminate such soreness or injury. |
| US09056040B2 |
Cardboard cremation containers
A cardboard cremation container has a cardboard base having a pair of opposed side walls, a pair of opposed end walls, and a bottom wall, and a cardboard lid on the base, the lid having a pair of opposed side walls, an end wall, a header wall, and a top wall. Each of the side walls of the base has a notch formed in an upper edge thereof. The side walls and the end wall of the lid extend outwardly beyond the side walls and one end wall of the base, and lower edges of the side walls and the end wall of the lid are positioned below upper edges of the side walls and the one end wall of the base. The header wall of the lid fits in the notches in the side walls of the base. The lid includes a riser at each corner of the lid formed by each lid side wall and a respective end of the lid end wall. The risers are supported on respective corners of the base formed by each base side wall and a respective end of the one base end wall. |
| US09056037B1 |
Air support apparatus
A two layer air support apparatus having at least two preformed air node circuits, where a top layer is radio frequency welded to a bottom layer for providing cyclic support to periodically shift pressure between different parts of a user's anatomy. The periodic shifting of the area supported by a user's anatomy over a period of time improves comfort and blood circulation. It is well known that periodic redistribution of skin pressure can help prevent some of the negative effects experienced through extended usage of beds and chairs. Additionally, enhancement of health and cosmetic improvement to vigorous individuals is suggested by the periodic shifting of supported anatomy due to improved rest from the benefits of a cyclic air support apparatus that has reduced complexity and cost. |
| US09056033B2 |
Highly flexible absorbent laminate and method for production thereof
Laminates are described herein. A laminate is characterized in that the laminate contains a water-absorbing polymer known as a super-absorbent polymer (SAP) between one or more elastic interplies, wherein the interplies consist of sheetlike lengths of material which are firmly bonded together on the outside surface of individual threads, strands or bands and this laminate is extendable essentially transversely to the production direction and shirred in a relaxed state, and the elastic interplies contain many individual sections or cassettes of superabsorbent and create room for the expansion of the laminate on fluid imbibition perpendicularly to and within the manufacturing plane. |
| US09056032B2 |
Wearable article with outwardmost layer of multicomponent fiber nonwoven providing enhanced mechanical features
A wearable article having an outer backsheet is disclosed. The outer backsheet may be formed of at least two layers of material, including an outward-facing layer formed at least in part of multicomponent fibers. The multicomponent fibers may have a polyolefin fiber component and a non-polyolefin fiber component. |
| US09056028B2 |
Dryness indicator for an absorbent article
A dryness indicator includes a wicking strip continuous between a reservoir end and an opposed open end; a liquid-impermeable top layer disposed on one side of the wicking strip; and a liquid-impermeable bottom layer disposed on the opposite side of the wicking strip, wherein the top layer is affixed to the bottom layer to at least partially enclose the wicking strip, and wherein the indicator is configured such that the open end of the wicking strip can be placed in liquid communication with an object or surface. The dryness indicator also includes a reservoir including an oil-based colorant with the potential to be in liquid communication with the reservoir end of the wicking strip, wherein the wicking strip is configured such that colorant wicking from the reservoir end and an unreacted water-based fluid wicking from the open end meet to define a timing line. |
| US09056027B2 |
Article comprising a flipped leg hoop and process for the manufacturing of such articles
The present invention relates to articles such as pants or pant-like structures, which comprise leg hoops which are folded over along a fold line and which encircle the legs of a wearer during use, and to the manufacturing of such articles. Such manufacturing is particularly suitable for the making of diapers, training pants, adult incontinence articles, or other absorbent articles exhibiting a particular good body-conforming fit. The leg hoops are manufactured by flipping a part of the material, thereby creating the hoop structure as well as a body conforming shape of the article. |
| US09056025B2 |
Means and method for preventing embolization of drug eluting stents
A balloon disposed near a distal end of the catheter tubing and moving between deflated and inflated states, and proximal and distal stent retention bands concentrically arranged around respective proximal and distal end portions of the balloon. The proximal stent retention band has a distal end located within 2 mm of the proximal end of a stent coaxially received by the balloon and the distal stent retention band has a largest diameter within 2 mm of the distal end of the stent received by the balloon. |
| US09056024B2 |
Endovascular prosthesis and delivery device
In one of its aspects, the present invention relates to an endovascular prosthesis. The endovascular prosthesis comprises a first expandable portion expandable from a first, unexpanded state to a second, expanded state to urge the first expandable portion against a vascular lumen and a retractable leaf portion attached to the first expandable portion. The retractable leaf portion comprises at least one spine portion and a plurality of rib portions attached to the spine portion. Longitudinally adjacent pairs of rib portions are free of interconnecting struts. The endovascular prosthesis that can be unsheathed and re-sheathed for repositioning of the endovascular prosthesis prior to final deployment thereof. There is also described a delivery device that that is particularly well suited to delivering the present endovascular prosthesis through tortuous vasculature in the body. |
| US09056021B2 |
Separation device
A device (1, 7) for separating a sleeve from an implant head, comprising a drive shaft (2) having a proximal end (3) and a distal end (4), the distal end having a cam (6), wherein the cam is disposed such that when, in use, a torque is applied to the drive shaft via the proximal end the cam acts in a direction substantially parallel to the axis of the drive shaft. A method of separating a sleeve from an implant head using such a device. |
| US09056018B2 |
Artificial cervical and lumbar discs, disc plate insertion gun for performing sequential single plate intervertebral implantation enabling symmetric bi-disc plate alignment for interplate mobile core placement
An artificial replacement disc includes a pair of substantially parallel plates formed to occupy a space defined by vertebral endplates, each of the plates including a plurality of spikes on a first surface and a concave trough formed on a second surface opposite of the first surface. A mobile core includes a core rim with opposing convex surfaces extending from opposite sides of the core rim, the mobile core being capable of being disposed between the pair of plates to permit the vertebral endplates to move relative to one another. The spikes on each of the plates extend substantially away from the mobile core and the convex surfaces are formed to integrally fit within the concave trough of at least one of the plates. The core rim limits lateral movement of the mobile core relative to the parallel plates. One or more insertion tools for inserting and implanting the replacement disc are also described. |
| US09056017B2 |
3D design and fabrication system for implants
A method of designing, presenting, generating, and fabricating custom implants by obtaining a 3D image of a site to receive an implant, simulating volumetric changes of the site, generating a virtual 3D implant, and fabricating a real 3D implant. A method of implanting a custom implant in a patient, by obtaining a 3D image of a site to receive an implant, simulating volumetric changes of the site, generating a virtual 3D implant, fabricating a real 3D implant, and implanting the implant in the patient. A method of correcting disfigurement in a patient. A method of replacing a disc in a patient's back. The present invention also provides for an implant fabricated by this method. |
| US09056015B2 |
Segmented insert for intervertebral support
A spinal intervertebral support implant, for fusion or for dynamic stabilization purposes. A rod, preferably in the form of a screw, is inserted obliquely from the pedicle of an inferior vertebra into the body of a neighboring superior vertebra, through the disc space. The rod can be anchored into the body of the superior vertebra by means of a force fit or a screw thread. A pile of elements is disposed on the rod in the disc space like a pile of washers, so that the compression load between vertebrae is carried partly by these elements. These elements can be inserted through the bore through which the rod was inserted in a tightly folded configuration, and deployed into their washer-like form only when in position in the intervertebral space, such that there is no need for any additional incisions. |
| US09056008B2 |
Instrument and method for in situ development of cardiac valve prostheses
An instrument for deploying a cardiac valve prosthesis, including a plurality of radially expandable portions, at an implantation site, includes a plurality of deployment elements each independently operable to obtain the radial expansion of a radially expandable portion of the valve prosthesis. A method for deploying the cardiac valve prosthesis includes advancing the instrument to an implant site and independently actuating the radially expandable portions. |
| US09056002B2 |
Stent-graft and method for percutaneous access and closure of vessels
In a method of accessing and closing a vessel, a vessel is percutaneously accessed through a first opening in the vessel wall at a first location. A stent-graft is delivered through the first opening to a second location. The stent-graft is deployed at the second location. The vessel is then accessed through a second opening through the vessel wall at the second location, wherein the second opening is generally aligned with a fenestration through the graft material of the stent-graft. A delivery device is advanced through the second opening, the fenestration, and the stent-graft lumen to a third location spaced from the first location and the second location. After the delivery device is retracted through the lumen of the stent-graft and out of the fenestration and the second opening, the stent graft is rotated or translated such that the fenestration is not aligned with the second opening. |
| US09056000B2 |
Flexible stent-graft
A stent graft (5) comprises a tubular graft member (4), and a plurality of sloping stent members (3) substantially coaxial with and coupled to the tubular graft member (4). Each of the sloping stent members (3) comprises multiple uneven apexes characterizing a round tubular configuration with a distal end and a proximal end disposed about a longitudinal axis. The distal apexes of the sloping stent member (3) are arranged in substantially the same plane substantially horizontal to the longitudinal axis of the sloping stent member and the proximal apexes are arranged in a sloping plane oblique to the longitudinal axis. |
| US09055996B2 |
Method of retrieving a blood clot filter
A compact retrievable blood clot filter has a filter section, a releasable lock and an alignment section connected to the filter section. Alignment ribs of the alignment section have releasable upstream ends that are locked to the filter by the releasable lock. The releasable upstream ends of the alignment ribs are capable of being released from the releasable lock so that during retrieval of the filter, the alignment ribs can slide through the endothelial tissue that may have grown around the alignment ribs. |
| US09055995B2 |
Method for treating obesity by extracting food
The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for treating obesity. An artificial obstruction is introduced into the patient's gastrointestinal tract, and a tube is positioned that passes through a patient's abdominal wall into the upper digestive system of the patient. The patient is allowed to carry out his/her everyday affairs including ingesting food. After the patient has ingested food, the food is extracted by pumping it out of the upper digestive system through the tube. The present invention is less invasive than current surgical procedures for reducing weight and allows patients to live a normal and active lifestyle without experiencing adverse side effects. |
| US09055993B2 |
Denture reference and registration system
An improved denture system is disclosed. An improved denture system has a support bar and an artificial denture base. The denture base has an oversize cutout and a corresponding cavity and the support bar has a plurality of reference posts which mechanically interface with the corresponding cavity so that the support bar is connected to the artificial denture base and provides reinforcement and stability to the denture system. The shape and position of the reference posts fully constrains the support bar in a fixed position with reference to the denture base. In one embodiment, the denture base snap-fits onto the support bar. |
| US09055990B1 |
Bayramov'S open framework denture and method for manufacturing the same
A dental prosthetic device and a method for its fabrication are disclosed. The method is applicable for metalloceramics or metalloplastics permanent dentures based on a light metal openwork frame strengthened by multiple layers of ceramic or plastic custom coating. |
| US09055986B1 |
Orthopedic fastener
An orthopedic fastener has a head and a shank. The shank has a leading end portion adjacent a distal tip and a trailing end portion adjacent a head. An intermediate transition is positioned between the leading and trailing end portions. At the intermediate transition, the shank increases in diameter. The leading end portion has a first thread which optionally may include one or more self-tapping cutting grooves extending adjacent the distal tip and through a plurality of the first threads. The trailing end portion has second threads extending toward the head from the intermediate transition. The second threads of the trailing end portion are larger in outer diameter than the first threads in the leading end portion. The intermediate transition has one or more cutting grooves traversing the increasing diameter. |
| US09055985B2 |
Dental abutment with cover
A dental implant assembly comprises an implant body adapted for securement within a bore in a jaw bone of a patient. The implant body has a portion with an external thread for engaging the bore. An abutment has a top portion and a bottom portion. The top portion of the abutment is adapted to secure a prosthetic component. The bottom portion of the abutment is attachable to the implant body and adapted to be positioned below a gumline of the patient, the abutment formed of a first material. A cover is sized and shaped to cover the bottom portion of the abutment and adapted to be positioned below the gum line, without covering the top portion of the abutment. The cover is formed from a second material having a different color from the first material. |
| US09055982B2 |
Spinal implant system and methods of use
A spinal implant includes a first member and a second member. The first member extends between a first end and a second end. The first end is configured for fixation with vertebral tissue adjacent a lamina. The second member extends between a first end and a second end. The first end is configured for fixation with vertebral tissue adjacent the lamina. The second end is connected to the second end of the first member. The first end of the second member is disposed in a spaced apart relation to the first end of the first member. The second ends are relatively movable in a configuration such that the members are expandable and/or contractible. Systems and methods of use are disclosed. |
| US09055981B2 |
Spinal implants and methods
The present invention provides a spinal implant for placement between adjacent processes of the human spine. In some embodiments the spinal implant includes a spacer and one or more retention members. In some embodiments, the retention members are fixed relative to the spacer and in other embodiments the retention members are deployable from a first or compact or stowed position to a second or expanded or deployed position. In some embodiments the spacer is expandable from a first size to a second size. In some embodiments the spacer has a tapered body. |
| US09055979B2 |
Cord for vertebral fixation having multiple stiffness phases
A dynamic stabilization system for stabilizing a vertebral segment of a spine. The system includes a first vertebral anchor, a second vertebral anchor and a cord. The system may also include a spacer positioned between the first and second vertebral anchor through which the cord extends. The first vertebral anchor is configured to be secured to a first vertebra and the second vertebral anchor is configured to be secured to a second vertebra. The cord is extendable from the first vertebral anchor to the second vertebral anchor. The cord has a variable stiffness through a range of displacement, wherein the stiffness of the cord increases as an applied tensile force on the cord is increased. |
| US09055976B2 |
Multi-directional distractor
A mandibular distractor can include an elongated main body having a central longitudinal axis extending in the elongate direction between a first end and a spaced apart second end. A first bone mount can be secured to the main body and a second bone mount can be positioned on the main body. A drive mechanism configured to selectively move the second bone mount longitudinally along the main body can also be included. A third bone mount configured to be moved longitudinally along the main body can also be included. |
| US09055975B2 |
Surgical instrument and method of positioning an acetabular prosthetic component
An orthopaedic surgical instrument and method for positioning an acetabular prosthetic component in a patient's surgically-prepared acetabulum is disclosed. The orthopaedic surgical instrument has a base configured to engage the patient's pelvis, a first linkage pivotally coupled to the base, a locking mechanism operable to lock the first linkage in position relative to the base, and a second linkage removably coupled to the first linkage. The second linkage has an alignment axis corresponding to a desired abduction angle and a desired anteversion angle of the acetabular axis of the acetabular prosthetic component. |
| US09055974B2 |
Implantable medical devices storing graphics processing data
In one example, a device includes a telemetry module configured to retrieve graphics processing data from a device that is not configured to perform a rendering process using the graphics processing data and that is associated with delivering therapy to a therapy target of a patient, and a control unit configured to apply the graphics processing data while performing the rendering process to generate an image of an anatomical feature of the patient, wherein the anatomical feature comprises the therapy target for an implantable medical device, and to cause a display unit of a user interface to display the image, wherein the image of the anatomical feature is specific to the patient. The graphics processing data may include a list of vertices or a transform to be applied to a non-patient-specific anatomical atlas. The data may also include a location of a therapy element of the implantable medical device. |
| US09055973B2 |
Device to assist in cesarean section
Surgical device to allow an easy delivery of the fetus during a Cesarean Section when fetal head is deeply wedged in the female pelvic cavity. The device consists of inflatable portion to lift the fetal head attached to foldable base plate that can be folded with the inflatable portion for insertion of the device into the female vagina below the fetal head. The inflatable portion is inflated by injecting biocompatible fluid by pressurizing device such as syringe, pressure bag, hand pump or powdered pump. The device can also be of use in other situations like abdominal delivery of a premature or small baby and when cord prolapse has occurred. |
| US09055969B2 |
Apparatus and method for elongating a tendon
An apparatus and method for elongating a tendon including a cutting blade and a cutting guide supporting the cutting blade in such a way that the cutting blade is movable through at least a portion of a tendon in a helical path so as to make a helical cut in the tendon which allows elongation of the tendon. |
| US09055966B2 |
Eccentric abrading and cutting head for high-speed rotational atherectomy devices
The invention provides a rotational atherectomy device having, in various embodiments, a flexible, elongated, rotatable drive shaft with at least one flexible or inflexible eccentric enlarged abrading and cutting head attached thereto which comprises an abrasive surface. When placed against stenotic tissue and rotated at high speed, the eccentric nature of the abrading and cutting head moves along an orbital path, opening the lesion to a diameter larger than the resting diameter of the enlarged abrading and cutting head. Preferably the abrading and cutting head has a center of mass spaced radially from the rotational axis of the drive shaft, facilitating the ability of the device to travel along an orbital path. The abrading and cutting head comprises proximal and/or distal radiused surfaces that facilitate cutting difficult stenosis material while minimizing trauma to the vessel. In some cases, the abrading and cutting head is made from a relatively dense metal. |
| US09055965B2 |
Devices, systems and methods useable for treating sinusitis
Sinusitis and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches with flexible or rigid instruments. Various methods and devices are used for remodeling or changing the shape, size or configuration of a sinus ostium or duct or other anatomical structure in the ear, nose or throat; implanting a device, cells or tissues; removing matter from the ear, nose or throat; delivering diagnostic or therapeutic substances or performing other diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Introducing devices (e.g., guide catheters, tubes, guidewires, elongate probes, other elongate members) may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g. catheters e.g. balloon catheters, guidewires, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, devices for implanting elements like stents, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for delivering diagnostic or therapeutic agents, substance delivery implants, scopes etc.) into the paranasal sinuses or other structures in the ear, nose or throat. Specific devices (e.g., tubular guides, guidewires, balloon catheters, tubular sheaths) are provided as are methods for manufacturing and using such devices to treat disorders of the ear, nose or throat. |
| US09055964B2 |
Device and method for removing material from a hollow anatomical structure
A medical device for removing a material from a hollow anatomical structure is provided. The device may include a shaft member. The device may include an expandable centering element near the distal end of the device. The device may include a macerator element either attached to the shaft or independent and freely moveable from the shaft. Alternatively, the device may include a rotating wire attached to the macerator element. The device may include an aspiration lumen in for removal of material. The device may include a drive shaft attached to a motor and used to rotate the macerator element. The device may be used in combination with a distal occlusion element, which may be either a radially expandable filter or balloon member. |
| US09055960B2 |
Flexible surgical devices
A surgical device can include a tube comprising a wall having a plurality of slits oriented generally transverse to a longitudinal axis of the tube. Each of the slits may be defined by opposing surfaces. The surgical device can further include a force transmission element coupled to the tube. In a flexible state of the tube, at least some of the opposing surfaces defining respective slits are separated from one another, and in a stiffened state of the tube, a force exerted on the force transmission element causes the opposing surfaces of each slit to contact one another. |
| US09055956B2 |
Methods and apparatus for introducing tumescent fluid to body tissue
A catheter is usable to treat a hollow anatomical structure (HAS). The catheter comprises one or more shafts which extend away from a proximal end of the catheter toward a distal end thereof. The catheter further comprises an HAS constriction energy source located at or near the distal end of the catheter. The catheter further comprises at least one radially expandable transmural fluid delivery channel located in the catheter near the HAS constriction energy source. |
| US09055954B2 |
Method for arthroscopic bone preparation
A method of using a guide system for resecting a bone through incisions of the type utilized for arthroscopic procedures is provided. The guide system comprises a first alignment pin, a second alignment pin and a wire saw. The first alignment pin is configured to be inserted through a first incision into a bone in a first orientation. The second alignment pin is configured to inserted through a second incision into the bone in a second orientation. The first alignment pin and the second alignment pin are configured and oriented to define a resection plane of reference through which the bone is to be resected and the wire saw is configured to be inserted through the first and second incisions to be guided by the first and second alignment pins while being moved to resect the bone. |
| US09055953B2 |
Methods and compositions for articular repair
Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for producing articular repair materials and for repairing an articular surface. In particular, methods for providing articular repair systems. Also provided are articular surface repair systems designed to replace a selected area cartilage, for example, and surgical tools for repairing articular surfaces. |
| US09055952B2 |
Irrigation catheter
An irrigation catheter includes a handle, a catheter sheath with at least one ablation electrode proximal the distal end of the catheter sheath and a stylet for deflecting the distal end of the catheter sheath. The ablation electrode includes at least one irrigation opening in it. The irrigation catheter further includes a fluid-carrying formation formed on the catheter sheath under the ablation electrode. The fluid-carrying formation is in fluid communication with the irrigation lumen of the catheter sheath so that fluid is conveyed from the irrigation lumen to the irrigation opening. |
| US09055949B2 |
Balloon tamponade
An implantable device is provided for controlling hemorrhage in a body cavity, comprising an expandable balloon and a conduit for supplying a physiologically compatible fluid to inflate the balloon. When the balloon tamponade device is implanted or inserted into the body cavity, it is inflated with a physiologically suitable fluid, so that the balloon generally conforms to the body cavity and exerts compressive force against the walls, tissues or structures of the body cavity to control hemorrhage. The balloon may have a deforming means to limit expansion of the balloon in a direction to facilitate expansion of the balloon in another direction. The device may have additional tubes within the conduit, or a plurality of separate lumens within the conduit or tubes to allow drainage and irrigation to the body cavity. There is also provided a cuff for attachment of an external traction to the balloon tamponade, to facilitate the compressive effect of the device. In a preferred embodiment, there is provided a dual balloon tamponade in which two balloons are axially spaced along the conduit, providing a means to control hemorrhage from two distinct body cavities, such as a uterus and a vagina. There is also provided a method to control hemorrhage in a body cavity by implantation or insertion of the balloon tamponade, inflating the balloon with a fluid to a sufficient pressure and retaining the fluid pressure within the balloon for a sufficient period of time to determine whether hemorrhage has been controlled. A kit comprising the balloon tamponade apparatus is also provided. |
| US09055948B2 |
Vaso-occlusive devices comprising complex-shape proximal portion and smaller diameter distal portion
This is a device for occluding a space within the body. In particular, the device comprises a proximal portion having a complex, three-dimensional shape and a distal portion, where the diameter of the shape defined by the distal portion is smaller than the diameter of the shape defined by the proximal portion. The devices may be placed in a desired site within a mammal and are useful in occluding devices. |
| US09055946B2 |
Anastomotic connector
An anastomotic connector comprises a generally tubular access port having a first end and a second end and a main body portion in fluid communication with the second end of the access port that is structured to be deployed within a fluid passageway. The main body portion includes an expandable mesh frame defining a pair of flanges extending outwardly from the second end of the access port and a retention strap extending across the second end of the access port. The pair of flanges and the retention strap are structured to exert a radial force on an internal surface of a fluid passageway when the mesh frame of the main body portion is expanded within the fluid passageway. Furthermore, the pair of flanges and the retention strap allow the passage of fluid to the distal tissues that the native fluid passageway is supplying. |
| US09055944B2 |
Surgical instrument buttress attachment
A surgical stapler instrument has surgical stapler jaws, at least one staple line reinforcement material, and a fastener including a hook and a loop. The hook can be disposed on one of the surgical stapler jaws and the loop can be disposed on the staple line reinforcement material. Alternatively, the hook can be disposed on the staple line reinforcement material and the look on one of the surgical stapler jaws. |
| US09055940B2 |
Endoscopic fascial closure systems and methods for using same
A system for closure of a fascial opening is disclosed. The system may include a first capture device for pulling one end of a suture through fascial tissue on one side of a fascial opening, and a second capture device for pulling an opposing end of the suture through the fascial tissue on an opposite side of the fascial opening. A trapping device for locating and engaging the first capture device can be used, prior to the capture device being pulled through the fascial tissue, so that the trapping device can subsequently pull the suture to facilitate closure of the fascial opening. Methods and apparatuses for closure of a fascial opening are also disclosed. |
| US09055935B2 |
Retractor illumination system
An illuminated surgical retractor system includes a retractor and a light guide disposed over the retractor. The retractor has a front surface facing a surgical field, a rear surface adapted to engage tissue, a distal end, and a proximal end. The light guide conforms to the shape of the retractor and is removably secured to the retractor and conducts light through the front or rear surface of the retractor. The light guide has an input adaptor and one or more light emitting surfaces. |
| US09055932B2 |
Suture fastener combination device
A closure system for closing openings in tissue that includes a closure device and a fastener. The closure device includes shafts that are configured to deploy a fastener to close an opening in tissue. The closure device can deploy the fastener as a knot pusher to close the opening with sutures or as a knot replacement to close the opening with sutures. |
| US09055929B2 |
Long ultrasonic cutting blade formed of laminated smaller blades
An end effector of an ultrasonic surgical instrument is provided, the ultrasonic surgical instrument having a manipulatable structure, a body portion operatively connected to the manipulatable structure and having a distal end, a transducer, and the end effector being supported on the distal end of the body portion, the end effector including a plurality of resonant member elements, each resonant member operatively connected to a transducer of the plurality of transducers for effecting vibrations along the length of the resonant member, and including an operating surface configured to effect tissue dissection, cutting, coagulation, ligation and/or hemostasis, wherein a displacement curve associated with the vibrations of a first one of the plurality of resonant members is offset relative to the displacement curve associated with the vibrations of a second one of the plurality of resonant members. |
| US09055925B2 |
System and method for reducing false alarms associated with vital-signs monitoring
Systems and methods of reducing false alarms associated with a vital-sign monitor are disclosed. One or more data samples of a vital sign of a patient are generated at a first sampling rate in a normal mode of operation. Whether the one or more data samples satisfy an alert condition is determined. An alert mode of operation is entered into if the alert condition is satisfied. One or more additional data samples of the vital sign are generated at a second sampling rate higher than the first sampling rate in the alert mode. |
| US09055924B2 |
Tympanic probe cover
A digital non-contact tympanic thermometer has a tympanic probe with an IR sensor at the end of the probe in which the digital non-contact tympanic thermometer can be converted to a digital non-contact non-tympanic thermometer for non-tympanic surfaces by placement of removeable probe cover over the tympanic cover in which the probe cover includes a parabolic condenser at the tip of the probe cover that increases gathering of incoming infrared energy. |
| US09055920B2 |
Ultrasound system and signal processing unit configured for time gain and lateral gain compensation
The present invention provides an ultrasound system, which comprises: a signal acquiring unit to transmit an ultrasound signal to an object and acquire an echo signal reflected from the object; a signal processing unit to control TGC (Time Gain Compensation) and LGC (Lateral Gain Compensation) of the echo signal; a TGC/LGC setup unit adapted to set TGC and LGC values based on TGC and LGC curves inputted by a user; and an image producing unit adapted to produce an ultrasound image of the object based on the echo signal. The signal processing unit is further adapted to control the TGC and the LGC of the echo signal based on the TGC and LGC values set by the TGC/LGC setup unit. |
| US09055917B2 |
Method for detecting, diagnosing, and treating cardiovascular disease
A method of treating cardiovascular disease in a medical patient is provided. The method includes the steps of generating a sensor signal indicative of a fluid pressure within the left atrium of the patient's heart, and delivering an electrical stimulus to a location in the heart. The electrical stimulus is delivered based at least in part on the sensor signal. The method also includes the steps of generating a processor output indicative of a treatment to a signaling device. The processor output is based at least in part on the sensor signal. At least two treatment signals are provided to the medical patient. The treatment signals are distinguishable from one another by the patient, and are indicative of a therapeutic treatment. The treatment signals are based at least in part on the processor output. |
| US09055915B2 |
Device for externally marking the location of organs on skin during a cat scan
A novel device for marking location of organs on skin as per CAT scan comprising of a sheet having a plurality of vertical, horizontal and oblique lines wherein the sheet is provided in the form of a mesh. The device can be used for radiotherapy of head to localize point of radiotherapy, for other parts of body to localize/mark organs on skin after CAT scan and also for surgery of Brain to localize tumors. |
| US09055913B2 |
System and method for orienting an X-ray detector
The subject matter disclosed herein relates to X-ray imaging systems, and more specifically to digital X-ray imaging systems. In one embodiment, an imaging system includes an X-ray source configured to emit X-rays. The imaging system also includes an X-ray detector configured to detect the emitted X-rays and produce a corresponding electrical signal. The imaging system also includes a gantry configured to at least partially revolve the X-ray source and the X-ray detector about a primary rotational axis. The X-ray detector is coupled to the gantry so that a diagonal of the X-ray detector is oriented substantially perpendicular to the primary rotational axis. |
| US09055910B2 |
Ultrasonic diagnosis device
The disclosed ultrasonic diagnosis device is provided with an attitude correction mechanism, between a tilt section and a display unit, for eliminating inclination of the display unit caused by drooping down of the end portion of an arm mechanism. The attitude correction mechanism has a shaft member and a bearing, and rotates the display unit about the normal of a display surface thereof. A prong enters a slit, thereby preventing the display unit from rotating more than necessary. |
| US09055908B2 |
Systems and methods for delivering bone conduction stimuli to and for measuring gravitation receptor functions of the inner ear
Disclosed herein are apparatus and methods for delivering bone conduction stimuli for measuring the gravitation receptor functions of the inner ear. In some embodiments, an apparatus may include (i) an impactor operatively linked to a guide disposed within a housing and (ii) an electrically driven actuator enclosed within the housing. The electrically driven actuator may be configured to cause the impactor to (i) travel to a striking point to deliver a mechanical bone conduction stimulus for transmission to a skull bone and (ii) controllably decelerate prior to the instance of stimuli delivery. |
| US09055906B2 |
In-vivo visualization systems
In vivo visualization systems are described which facilitate tissue treatment by a user in utilizing real time visualized tissue images with generated three-dimensional models of the tissue region of interest, such as the left atrial chamber of a subject's heart. Directional indicators on the visualized tissue as well as the imaging systems may be utilized while other variations may utilize image rotation or manipulation of visualized tissue regions to facilitate catheter control. Moreover, visualized tissue regions may be combined with imaged tissue regions as well as navigational information to further facilitate tissue treatments. |
| US09055902B2 |
Microelectrodes in an ophthalmic electrochemical sensor
An eye-mountable device includes an electrochemical sensor embedded in a polymeric material configured for mounting to a surface of an eye. The electrochemical sensor includes a working electrode, a reference electrode, and a reagent that selectively reacts with an analyte to generate a sensor measurement related to a concentration of the analyte in a fluid to which the eye-mountable device is exposed. The working electrode can have at least one dimension less than 25 micrometers. The reference electrode can have an area at least five times greater than an area of the working electrode. A portion of the polymeric material can surround the working electrode and the reference electrode such that an electrical current conveyed between the working electrode and the reference electrode is passed through the at least partially surrounding portion of the transparent polymeric material. |
| US09055900B2 |
Specimen measurement device and specimen measurement system
A specimen measurement system simplifies the function of a measurement device and facilitates measurement under an appropriate condition. Use is made of a specimen measurement device suitable for the system. The specimen measurement device includes a measurement unit, a measurement condition decision unit, and a communication unit. The measurement unit measures a specific component contained in the specimen. The measurement condition decision unit decides suitability of measurement conditions necessary for the measurement, and generates measurement condition data including decision result about the suitability of the measurement conditions. The communication unit transmits the measurement condition data through wireless communication. |
| US09055891B2 |
Optical tomographic image photographing apparatus and control method therefor
An optical tomographic image photographing apparatus having a tracking function, capable of appropriately controlling a scan in acquiring a tomographic image. The optical tomographic image photographing apparatus according to the invention includes a fundus image photographing section which photographs fundus images of an eye to be inspected and a tomographic image photographing section which photographs tomographic images of the eye to be inspected. A control method of the optical tomographic image photographing apparatus includes the steps of: calculating coordinate values matching a plurality of previously-acquired characteristic areas in the fundus image; calculating a spatial variation between the plurality of coordinate values; and controlling the scan of a measuring light by the tomographic image photographing section for acquiring the tomographic images on the basis of a result of the calculation. |
| US09055890B2 |
Eyeglass prescription method
In general, in some embodiments, the disclosure provides a method that includes making a subjective refraction of a person to determine information about the person's vision, making a wavefront measurement of one or both of the person's eyes to determine information about the optical properties of one or both of the person's eyes (e.g., aberrations), calculating a prescription for the person based on the information about the person's vision and the information about the optical properties of one or both of the person's eyes, and outputting the prescription. |
| US09055883B2 |
Surgical navigation system with a trackable ultrasound catheter
A surgical navigation system including an ultrasound catheter is disclosed herein. The ultrasound catheter includes a flexible catheter housing defining a distal end, a transducer array disposed at least partially within the catheter housing, and a motor coupled with the transducer array. The motor is configured to rotate the transducer array in order to image a three-dimensional volume. The ultrasound catheter also includes a tracking element adapted to provide an estimate of a position and/or orientation of the distal end of the catheter housing. The tracking element is disposed within the catheter housing and immediately adjacent to the distal end. |
| US09055881B2 |
System and method for image-based alignment of an endoscope
Systems and methods for endoscopic procedures employ a first technique to ensure initial correct alignment of an endoscope (100) with a desired target (10). A reference image (51) is then acquired from an imaging arrangement associated with the endoscope. During a subsequent stage of the procedure, tracking of the endoscope position relative to the target is performed partially or entirely by image-based tracking by comparing features in real-time video image (52) produced by imaging arrangement with features in the reference image (51). The feature comparison may be performed visually by a user, or may be automated to offer more specific corrective suggestions to the user. |
| US09055873B2 |
Method and system for maintaining iso center constant in an iso centric X-ray imaging system
A method of maintaining a constant iso-center point, while dynamically changing an area of interest during an imaging procedure is provided. The method comprises: allowing a user to move from an initial area of interest to new area of interest by allowing permissible axes motions; dynamically calculating the iso-center point while moving from the initial area of interest to the new area of interest as a function of relative distance between the initial area of interest and the new area of interest and as a function of parameters indicating relative motion of permissible axes; identifying the new area of interest by using at least one permissible axis motion; and calculating the iso-center point at the new area of interest after locking all the permissible axes motions except table tilt axis movement. |
| US09055871B2 |
Weighing scale and sensor systems and methods for monitoring heart function
Characteristics of a user's heart are detected. In accordance with an example embodiment, a ballistocardiogram (BCG) sensor is used to detect heart characteristics of a user, and provide a BCG output indicative of the detected heart characteristics. The BCG output is further processed using data from one or more additional sensors, such as to reduce noise and/or otherwise process the BCG signal to characterize the user's heart function. |
| US09055870B2 |
Physiological parameter measuring platform device supporting multiple workflows
A device obtains a series of measurements of a physiological parameter of one or more patients. The device displays a monitoring workflow home screen when the device is operating within a monitoring workflow. The device displays a non-monitoring workflow home screen when the device is operating within a non-monitoring workflow. The device displays a continuous workflow home screen when the device is operating within a continuous workflow. The monitoring workflow home screen, the non-monitoring workflow home screen, and the continuous workflow home screen are each different. |
| US09055868B2 |
System and method for voice control of medical devices
A diagnostic system includes a plurality of semiconductor diodes, a multiplexer, and one or more waveguide structures to form an output beam. A lens system communicates some of the output beam onto a part of a user's body comprising blood to perform a measurement. A software application is capable of generating data based at least in part on the measurement, and it operates on a control system that may have a touch-screen, a proximity sensor, and a wireless transceiver to transmit wireless data over a wireless link. A host comprises a digital file, control logic at the host to process at least the portion of the wireless data to generate a status of the user, a memory storage device for recording the status, and an output for communicating at least a portion of the status or associated information over a communication link to one or more remote display output devices. |
| US09055867B2 |
Confocal scanning microscope having optical and scanning systems which provide a handheld imaging head
A confocal microscope having a scanning head in the form of a hand piece which may be placed at selected locations on the body of a patient. A laser beam is scanned in orthogonal (horizontal and vertical) directions by scanners which drive scan mirrors, which are closely adjacent to each other. The optics include an objective lens and a telescope lenses that image the objective lens entrance pupil between the scan mirrors. Scanner is a pulse driven resonant scanner which is feed back controlled to maintain scanning rate and can change the scan angle and obtain dynamic, electronic image zooming without changing the positional relationship of the telescope. |
| US09055859B2 |
Method for operation of a dishwasher
A dishwasher and a method for operating a dishwasher, wherein a liquid is heated at least twice with a first heater, and wherein the first heater is an air heater. |
| US09055858B2 |
Method for operating a water-carrying household appliance
A method for operating a water-conducting domestic appliance is provided. During at least one of a plurality of successive partial program steps, a first medium is heated at least at times by means of a first heating element and items undergoing treatment are heated by applying the heated first medium to the items. When the first heating element is inactive, a second medium is heated at least at times by means of a second heating element and the items undergoing the treatment are heated by the heated second medium. |
| US09055852B2 |
Cleaning tool
A floor cleaning tool is disclosed. The floor cleaning tool comprises a mop head including a perimeter, a working surface and back surface, opposite the working surface. The working surface includes a contact surface and a recessed surface. The contact surface is on a portion of the working surface for making contact with the surface to be cleaned. The contact surface includes a first capturing edge and a second capturing edge. The recessed surface is on a portion of the working surface and includes a first side surface recessed from the first capturing edge of the contact surface and a second side surface recessed from the second capturing edge of the contact surface. The entire contact surface is nonlinear. |
| US09055847B1 |
Flexible folding infant bather
An infant bather having a flexible water bath supported by a frame. The frame has a scissors fold such that the flexible water bath folds one way to an open configuration for bathing an infant and folds the other way to a closed configuration for storage. |
| US09055845B1 |
Dual chambered body scrubber with pump apparatus
A dual chambered body scrubber with pump apparatus including an elongate handle having each of a first chamber and a second chamber adjacently disposed therein, each of said first and second chambers in fluid communication with a pump member, wherein movement of a pump switch between each of a first position and a second position alternately pressurizes each of the respective first chamber and the respective second chamber, whereby extant fluid disposed within each of said first and second chambers is selectively and forcibly exuded from a primary cavity through a head unit for application upon a body of a user. |
| US09055841B2 |
Package heating apparatus
A solid state thermite reaction composition is provided comprising a fuel component, an initiating oxidizer, a primary oxidizer, a fluxing agent and a thermal diluent. According to other aspects, a heating device, a heating element and an activation mechanism are provided. The heating device comprises a heating chamber defining an interior space for receiving and storing a substance to be heated, a reaction chamber disposed within the heating chamber, a solid state thermite reaction composition disposed within the reaction chamber such that it is physically isolated from and in thermal communication with the interior space of the heating chamber, and an activation mechanism having an actuator. The activation mechanism is in communication with the composition disposed within the reaction chamber and the reaction composition is inert until the activator mechanism is actuated. |
| US09055840B2 |
Apparatus for and method of heating an operating fluid
An apparatus for heating an operating fluid, the apparatus comprising a closed circuit for a working fluid, the closed circuit having first and second heat exchangers and a compressor therebetween, the first heat exchanger having a heat input side for connection to an external fluid heat source and a heat output side for vaporizing working fluid within the closed circuit, the compressor being a vapor compressor adapted to compress the vaporized gaseous working fluid from the first heat exchanger to form a higher pressure gaseous working fluid, and the second heat exchanger having a heat input side for receiving and condensing the higher pressure gaseous working fluid from the compressor and a heat output side for heating an external operating fluid. A corresponding method is also disclosed. |
| US09055838B2 |
Portable slow cooker
A new portable slow cooker capable of engaging a lid and a liner container can is provided to prevent the soup from spilling out. The structure of the present invention comprises a cooking body, a liner container, a lid and a handle, wherein the liner container is disposed within the cooking body, and the lid is disposed on the opening of the liner container. The handle is spanned over the lid and has, lower ends in vertically slidable cooperation with handle boxes disposed at aside surface of the cooking body. The handle is locked by the handle boxes when slides to an lowest position, so as to press the lid to form a sealing engagement with the liner container. As long as the handle is pushed to the lowest position, being locked, the lid and the liner. container can be engaged to prevent the soup from spilling out. |
| US09055836B2 |
Tea brewer structure configured for easy disassembly and cleaning
The present invention is to provide a tea brewer, which includes a container main body having a top side concavely provided with a receiving space for receiving liquid and coffee powder (or tea leaves) and a bottom side formed with a through hole in communication with the receiving space, at least one engaging element each provided on the bottom side and having at least one groove, a water-stopping plate having a post which extends into the receiving space through the through hole and peripherally provided with at least one guide rail each of which is movably received in the corresponding groove, and a water-stopping block detachably connected to the post and located in the receiving space. Since each guide rail extends into the corresponding groove with ease and without being compressed or deformed, it is easy for a user to remove the water-stopping plate from the tea brewer for cleaning. |
| US09055832B2 |
Lighted lid for beverage container
A lid for a beverage container or travel mug is provided that has one or more visual indicators to identify the location of the pour spout opening of the container or mug in low light conditions. |
| US09055830B2 |
Device for ensuring smooth and tight fit of sheet over mattress
A device designed to ensure a smooth and tight fit of the sheet over the mattress, which includes a locking pin or convex cap and a base comprising a horizontal, bottom plate and a vertical plate with a locking hole or protrusion, respectively, whereby the sheet may be fit smoothly and tightly over the base and the locking pin inserted into the locking hole, or the convex locking cap fit over the protrusion, thus ensuring a smooth and tight fit of the sheet over the mattress. |
| US09055827B2 |
Mounted display case
Display cases are designed to be mounted on at least one vertical support, such as a wall, pillar, or series of poles. The display cases include a display drawer that has a closed position within the display case and an open position beneath the display case. The display cases can be single sided, having a display drawer only on its front side, or double sided, having a first display drawer on its front side and a second display drawer on its rear side. |
| US09055826B2 |
Water sports equipment storage rack for a boat
A rack for holding water sports equipment includes a substantially upright surface, an arm, a pedal, and a linkage between the pedal and the arm. The arm is configured to hold a piece of water sports equipment between the arm and the substantially upright surface. The arm is movable away from the substantially upright surface, against a force biasing the arm toward the substantially upright surface, to allow the piece of water sports equipment to be inserted or removed from between the arm and the substantially upright surface. The pedal is positioned and configured to be moved from a closed position to an open position by a force applied by a human foot and to return to the closed position when that force is removed. The pedal is directly or indirectly connected to the arm in order to move the arm away from the substantially upright surface when the pedal is moved from the closed position to the open position. |
| US09055825B2 |
Inflatable mannequin and method of manufacturing the same
A plurality of sheets made of an elastic material such as vinyl and polypropylene are joined together by high-frequency gluing to form an airtight bag body. Then, the bag body is inflated by being filled with air to form a mannequin resembling the shapes of the upper and lower halves of a body. Regarding an upper bag body portion resembling the upper half of the body and a lower bag body portion resembling the lower half thereof, gussets are coupled through curved junction lines with sheets that form the respective base parts. A joining jig is used to join the sheets, thereby forming an airtight bag body. The foregoing provides an inflatable mannequin and a method of manufacturing the same that can express a natural and realistic body shape and that never damage the brand image of clothes a person who sees the mannequin wearing the clothes has. |
| US09055823B1 |
Lift bed with unified locking mechanism and multifunction bracket
A lift bed having a bed frame with a mattress-supporting platform pivotally mounted on a side wall of the frame so as to function as the lid for a storage compartment within the frame, which also includes pull-out side drawers alongside the storage compartment, and a unified locking mechanism capable of simultaneously locking the drawers and storage compartment. A bellcrank drives a locking member for the storage compartment and a locking member for the drawers, the latter locking member extending freely from the bellcrank to a wall separating the storage compartment from the side drawers. The bed frame includes multifunction corner brackets each of which interconnects perpendicular walls of the frame, hingedly supports the platform, and secures one end of a gas spring which assists in lifting the platform. |
| US09055822B2 |
Structural framework for convertible armchair or sofa
A structural framework for a convertible armchair or sofa comprising a box-shaped base supporting a plurality of frames hinged to one another, including a particular frame suitable, alone, for directly or indirectly supporting a seat cushion on one of its sides and, in combination with the other frames, for supporting a mattress on its other side, and mechanisms for the displacement of said frames and of a backrest and supporting foot, in relation to one another and with respect to the base, between: a stable configuration as a sofa or armchair, wherein the frames remain inside said base, where they identify a cavity for containing the folded mattress; and a stable configuration as a bed wherein the frames extend forwards, becoming aligned to define a horizontal resting surface that extends beyond the base and is supported by the foot, while the backrest moves underneath the resting surface, and a stable configuration as a recliner, wherein, by comparison with the configuration as an armchair or sofa, the backrest is tilted further backwards and the particular frame extends further forwards and/or is tilted upwards. |
| US09055821B2 |
Multifunctional furniture
A multifunctional furniture includes a stationary seat frame, a supporting frame, a back frame pivotally connected to the stationary seat frame to move between a sitting mode and a bedding mode, and a leg frame arrangement, which is provided underneath the stationary seat frame, the back frame and the supporting frame. When the back frame is in the sitting mode, the back frame is pivotally extended from the leg frame arrangement to form a predetermined angle of inclination with respect to the stationary seat frame while the leg frame arrangement is arranged to support the stationary seat frame, wherein when the back frame is in the bedding mode, the back frame is pivotally moved to align with the seat frame to form a sleeping area, while the leg frame arrangement is operated to provide extensive support to both the back frame, the stationary seat frame and the supporting frame. |
| US09055813B2 |
Pull-down shelf for furniture
A furniture pull-down shelf has first and second opposed lateral webs delimiting a shelf receptacle. First and second pairs of pivot levers are pivotably secured on first and second opposed furniture sidewalls and on the first and second lateral webs and define first and second four-bar linkages. The first and second four-bar linkages transfer the shelf from a stowed position inside the furniture into a lowered access position. An operating element is connected to first pivot levers of the first and second pairs of pivot levers. It extends in an initial operating position along a front side of the shelf receptacle. When pivoting the pull-down shelf into the access position, the connecting element moves from the initial operating position into a downward open operating position. |
| US09055812B2 |
Modular laboratory workbench
Modular laboratory workbenches and work surface accessories are provided. Modular laboratory workbenches may include a spine structure including multiple modules with core passageways for routing utilities. At least one spine structure module may include circuit breakers behind a panel for local electrical power control. The spine structure may include a top with angled faces that provide power outlets, gas terminals, and other utilities. Between angled faces, an accessory support structure may be provided that supports a backsplash in a center channel and provides accessory slots on both sides of the center channel to receive and support interchangeable accessories including monitor arms, tablet arms, gas turrets, supplemental lights, etc. Cantilever brackets of various heights may attach to the spine structure and support work surfaces that are translatable to provide access to the utilities provided on the angled faces of the spine structure. |
| US09055808B2 |
Portable self powered line mountable device for measuring and transmitting the undisturbed conductor temperature of electric power line conductors
A device for attaching to a power line conductor includes a jaw assembly and at least one jaw slot formed on a portion of the jaw assembly configured to engage a stranded power line conductor. The at least one jaw slot extends at an angle on the jaw assembly configured to match a helical angle of strands on an outer surface of the stranded power line conductor and configured to space the jaw assembly from at least one strand of the stranded power line conductor. |
| US09055806B2 |
Ergo cargo
A device for the manual transportation of loads that includes at least a front surface and at least a back surface, where said front and back surfaces are defined according to their position on the body of the user, joined through their top portion by at least one flat surface, to each one of the front and back surface to which at least one pillar is added, wherein said pillar is coupled by means of its top portion to the lower portion of the front and back sections and through the lower portion of said at least one pillar is coupled to at least one girdle. |
| US09055799B2 |
Isolation box for protecting reading material
A portable reverse isolation box (PRIB) for protecting an object from the environment and/or protecting a user from the object. The PRIB includes a housing comprising a container and a lid, wherein the container has structural integrity and at least a portion of the lid is transparent, and further wherein the housing forms an airtight and watertight isolation bay when the lid is mounted on the container; a port formed in the container; and a disposable flexible element mounted in the port in an airtight and watertight relationship, the flexible element being capable of assuming a concave configuration so as to permit a user to manipulate the object within the isolation bay without opening the lid. |
| US09055798B2 |
RFID-shielded articles and methods thereof
Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to RFID-shielded articles and methods thereof. In one embodiment, a wallet is provided that may comprise an inner layer having a foldable portion; an outer layer comprising RFID shielding material adapted to block a radio signal, the outer layer comprising a foldable portion adapted to cooperate with the foldable portion of the inner layer, the outer layer attached to the inner layer; a pocket formed between the outer layer and the inner layer, the pocket having an opening adapted to receive currency; and a card holder disposed on the inner layer, the card holder adapted to receive a card comprising an RFID tag. |
| US09055797B2 |
Size adjustable carrying apparatus
A size adjustable, hands-free carrying apparatus includes an attachment member having opposed first and second ends and opposed first and second side edges. A wrap assembly includes first and second strap members constructed of a flexible material attached to the side edges of the attachment member, respectively, and extending away in opposing directions. A back side of the first strap includes a hook material while a front side of the second strap includes a complementary loop material. The carrying apparatus includes a lanyard having a first end releasably coupled to the first end of the attachment member and a second end forming a loop configured to selectively hang from the neck of a person. The straps of the wrap assembly may be wrapped securely around an article such that the article may be suspended from a person's neck by the lanyard. |
| US09055793B2 |
Shotgun shell jewelry and method therefor
The present invention includes a method of manufacturing a shotgun cartridge for use with jewelry, wherein the method includes cutting off a portion of the brass head of a shotgun cartridge with a lathe. The portion of the brass head of the cartridge has a primer extending from a back side of that portion of the brass head of the cartridge. The primer is cut from the back side of that portion with a high speed drill having a cutting blade positioned thereon. The back side of that portion is then filed to create a smooth surface that may be secured to a mounting surface of a jewelry setting. |
| US09055792B2 |
Sapphire coated gemstone
The present invention provides a diamond simulant with greater similarity to a diamond than cubic zirconia. The present invention further provides a diamond simulant with durability, hardness, and optical features closer to that of a genuine diamond that previously afforded by other diamond simulants, such as cubic zirconia. |
| US09055785B2 |
Article of footwear incorporating tensile strands and securing strands
An article of footwear may have a sole structure and an upper that includes a foundation element, a tensile strand, and a securing strand. The tensile strand is located adjacent to an exterior surface of the foundation element and substantially parallel to the exterior surface for a distance of at least five centimeters. The securing strand joins or secures the tensile strand to the foundation element. Although the thicknesses may vary, a thickness of the tensile strand may be at least three times the thickness of the securing strand. In some configurations, a backing strand may also assist with joining the securing strand to the foundation element. |
| US09055783B2 |
Footwear article
A footwear article comprising a generally elongate sole for engagement with and support of the foot of a person, said sole having an upper surface, a lower surface, a first portion being for interaction with at least the heel region of the foot of the person and a second portion for interaction with at least the metatarsal region of the foot of the person; and a foot engagement means for securing the footwear article to the foot of a person. The footwear article being characterized in that a first portion of the sole includes a first material having a first material property and the a second portion of the sole includes a second material having a second material property; and said first portion and said second portion extend at least to the upper surface of the sole and first material property provides for dampening of load imparted to the foot of the person upon contact with a surface. |
| US09055782B2 |
Multistructural support system for a sole in a running shoe
A shoe structure for foot strike energy dissipation employs compressible members each having an internal void containing a first working fluid. A set of mating compressible members are each connected to a related one of the first compressible members through a fluid conduit such that the first working fluid is transferred from the related compressible member to the mating compressible member responsive to compression induced by foot strike. Resilient structural members are placed intermediate the compressible members to deform responsive to compression of the foot bed induced by foot strike provide both energy dissipation and resilient recovery of the compression cylinders to their uncompressed state. A cavity contains a second working fluid that is transmissible between the compressible members responsive to compression of the foot bed. Cooling tubes are provided for energy dissipation of the second working fluid which bathes the compressible members, conduits and resilient elements. |
| US09055780B2 |
Knee implants having hydromagnetic joints
A knee implant includes a first implant part adapted for attachment to a femur and a second implant part adapted for attachment to a tibia. The knee implant includes a hydromagnetic joint having a first magnetic element with a first magnetically charged surface and a first buoyant element coupled with the first magnetic element, and a second magnetically charged surface that opposes the first magnetically charged surface of the first magnetic element and a second buoyant element coupled with the second magnetic element. A fluid body is disposed between the first and second buoyant elements, and the first and second buoyant elements are in fluid communication with one another through the fluid body. The hydromagnetic joint has an enclosure extending between the first and second buoyant elements for containing the fluid body therebetween, whereby the first and second buoyant elements are moveable relative to one another. |
| US09055774B2 |
Sports glove with gripping power
A sports glove that increases grip strength to enhance an athlete's performance in any sport. The increase in grip strength generated by the Vpower sports glove of the invention is brought about by sewing the index finger and middle finger together and the ring finger and pinky finger together so that the pairs of fingers act as one finger. Another embodiment of the Vpower glove employs a hook and loop tape arrangement to bind the pairs of fingers together so that they act as one to increase the gripping power of the glove. The Vpower glove forces the wearer to use the power of two fingers on every grip and immediately increases the gripping strength of the wearer without any additional effort and this increase in grip strength is permanent. |
| US09055772B2 |
Explosion safety garment
A retrievable flash suit designed to protect the wearer from injury due to explosion and flame, and to allow retrieval of the wearer by others in case of unconsciousness of the wearer. The device consists of a suit and a hood. The suit consists of an outer layer of flame resistant material and an inner layer, also of flame resistant material. Sewn to the inside of the suit is a one piece harness. The detached hood consists of a three layer hood of flame resistant material with a neck drape of one layer of flame resistant material and a protected face opening of two layers of flame resistant material. |
| US09055765B2 |
Dietary compositions and related methods of use
The present invention provides dietary compositions for mammalian consumption. In particular, the present invention provides compositions comprising pectin, a component comprising electrolytes, thickening agents, a sweetening agent, and water, and methods for making such compositions. In some embodiments, the dietary compositions are used for preventing and/or treating malabsorption dysfunction and associated disorders (e.g., short bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease). In some embodiments, the dietary compositions are used for preventing and/or treating colonic disorders (e.g., ulcerative colitis). The dietary compositions further find use in subjects with diarrhea, regardless of cause, subject suffering from gastric dumping syndrome, and obese patients or patients seeking to lose weight, as the composition delays gastric emptying (e.g., creating feeling of early satiety). In some embodiments, the dietary composition is a prebiotic food supplement. |
| US09055764B2 |
System and method for the continuous treatment of solids at non-atmospheric pressure
Systems and processes may be used for continuously processing a solid material at a non-atmospheric pressure. In some examples, the material is delivered to a process vessel at substantially the same non-atmospheric pressure condition as the process vessel so as to avoid shearing the material. In some examples, the solid material is continuously fed into a process vessel, continuously processed in the process vessel, and continuously discharged from the process vessel. |
| US09055763B2 |
Probiotics for use in relieving symptoms associated with gastronitestinal disorders
The present invention provides probiotic compositions suitable for relieving symptoms associated with gastrointestinal disorders. In particular, the present invention provides compositions and methods to relieve symptoms associated with functional bowel disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, functional diarrhea, functional bloating, and other symptoms. |
| US09055762B2 |
UV adapter for preparation of neonate nutritional fluid
A system for preparing a nutritional liquid for ingestion by a neonate is disclosed. The system includes a receptacle for sterilizing water for use in warming the nutritional liquid. A sterilizer having an ultraviolet (UV) light source is engaged with the receptacle, and a fluid pump is provided to pump sterilized water from the receptacle and into a sleeve compartment of a warming bag. The sleeve compartment surrounds an interior pocket that is dimensioned to receive a container that is filled with the nutritional liquid. The system also includes a heater/vibrator having a reservoir and a heating element. The reservoir is dimensioned to receive the warming bag and liquid-filled container. When the heating element is activated, heat is conducted from the heating element to the reservoir, from the reservoir to the water, and from the water to the nutritional liquid in the liquid-filled container. |
| US09055759B2 |
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. |
| US09055756B2 |
Heat exchange and transport system for retorting apparatus
An apparatus for the heat treatment of a product, in particular a product contained within a hermetically sealed pouch or other plastic container, the apparatus having, a heating unit to contain a product as product is brought towards a treatment temperature and pressure, a sterilization unit to contain product at a pre determined treatment temperature and pressure to sterilize product, and a cooling unit to bring a product from the treatment temperature and pressure towards ambient; each unit being selectively sealable from another unit, the apparatus further having: a plurality of conduits carrying heat-exchange fluids allowing heat to be transferred between units; and having a heater, preferably producing steam, to supply heat to the apparatus; a heat-exchange unit enabling heat energy to be transferred from one conduit to another; and a hot well to retain a reservoir of heat exchange fluid at the highest temperature required by the apparatus. |
| US09055754B2 |
Chewing gum manufacture
A chewing gum sheet is formed without substantial use of a powdered non-stick agent by extruding a slab having a tacky surface of heated chewing gum composition onto a moving conveyor; cooling the slab on the conveyor sufficiently to cool the surface of the slab; and passing the slab from the conveyor through at least one cooled roller to form a chewing gum sheet with predetermined dimensions. |
| US09055753B2 |
Container-packed black coffee beverage
Disclosed is a container-packed black coffee beverage which has an excellent hypertension ameliorating effect and can be ingested in an ordinary manner. A container-packed black coffee satisfying the following requirements (A) to (C): (A) a chlorogenic acid: 0.01 to 1% by mass; (B) hydroxyhydroquinone: 0.1% by mass or less relative to the mass of the chlorogenic acid; and (C) the chlorogenic acid/a coffee solid content ≧0.025 (by mass). |
| US09055752B2 |
Shelf-stable concentrated dairy liquids and methods of forming thereof
A shelf-stable concentrated dairy product, such as concentrated milk, with improved flavor, color and mouthfeel, and a method of production thereof is provided. The method eliminates any thermal treatment prior to and during concentration that may substantially cross-link casein to whey and preferably utilizes microfiltration to produce a stable concentrated dairy liquid with reduced amounts of whey and lactose. The resulting products have a sterilization value Fo of at least 5 and are also resistant to gelling and browning during high temperature sterilization and also resistant to gelling during extended storage. |
| US09055747B2 |
Chitooligosaccharides and methods for use in enhancing corn growth
Disclosed are methods of enhancing growth of corn plants, comprising treating corn seed or the corn plant that germinates from the seed with an effective amount of at least one chitooligosaccharide, wherein upon harvesting the corn plant exhibits at least one of increased plant yield measured in terms of bushels/acre, increased root number, increased root length, increased root mass, increased root volume and increased leaf area, compared to untreated corn plants or corn plants harvested from untreated corn seed. |
| US09055746B2 |
Chitooligosaccharides and methods for use in enhancing plant growth
Disclosed are methods of enhancing plant growth, comprising treating plant seed or the plant that germinates from the seed with an effective amount of at least one chitooligosaccharide, wherein upon harvesting the plant exhibits at least one of increased plant yield measured in terms of bushels/acre, increased root number, increased root length, increased root mass, increased root volume and increased leaf area, compared to untreated plants or plants harvested from untreated seed. |
| US09055745B2 |
Compositions for internal and external insecticides, ovicides, repellents and wound healing
Exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to pesticides, insecticides, insect repellant, insect anti-feeding, cleaning, glue dissolving and anti-irritation and wound healing compositions for humans and animals and, more particularly, to such compositions which are effective in killing, removing and/or repelling a wide range of endoparasites, ectoparasites and insects while also being non-toxic to humans, animals, and the environment. An exemplary embodiment of the present invention is directed to an aqueous composition including a mixture of at least one ethanolamide and at least one esterified fatty acid. Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is directed to an aqueous composition including at least one esterified fatty acid in water and at least one emulsifier. The aqueous compositions may be used as a cleaning composition, insecticide, insect repellant, glue solvent or to relieve irritation from and/or promote healing of insect bites, skin abrasions superficial burns and wounds. |
| US09055740B2 |
Systems and methods for ex-vivo organ care
The invention provides, in various embodiments, systems and devices relating to a blood product heater for use in an ex-vivo organ care. In certain embodiments, the invention relates to maintaining a perfusion fluid flowing through the heater at near-physiologic conditions. |
| US09055737B2 |
Method and apparatus for deterring nuisance animals
A life like three-dimensional version of a predatory animal, used to scare off nuisance animals, is disclosed. A three-dimensional animal unit is mounted to a mounting unit which allows for installation in any type of pervious or non-pervious surface. A joint mounting system penetrates through a body cavity of the animal unit which allows for the animal unit to move with minimal air breezes, mimicking real life movement. |
| US09055730B2 |
Food processing vat with zoned temperature control
A food processing vat is provided with a zoned heat transfer system that provides zoned temperature control to the vat. The zoned heat transfer system selectively transmits heat to or removes heat from different portions of a bottom wall and/or side wall(s) of the vat. A heat transfer fluid may be directed through the zoned heat transfer system along a flow path that is selected based on a target size and/or a target temperature of a batch of food product being processed in the vat. |
| US09055728B1 |
Soybean cultivar 38401184
A soybean cultivar designated 38401184 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar 38401184, to the plants of soybean cultivar 38401184, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar 38401184, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar 38401184. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 38401184. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 38401184, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar 38401184 with another soybean cultivar. |
| US09055722B2 |
Product for use in agriculture or horticulture
The invention relates to a product for use in agriculture or horticulture comprising a capsule dissolving or disintegrating in the presence of humidity wherein at least a seed and a controlled release system comprising an agrochemical compound is located. |
| US09055719B2 |
Method and apparatus for ride control activation
A construction machine is provided. The construction machine includes a chassis and a ground engaging member (such as a wheel or a track) operable to support and move the chassis over ground. The construction machine further includes a work implement (such as a bucket) coupled to the chassis; a cab mounted on said chassis and having a user seat, and a first controller (such as a joystick) accessible to a user seated in the user seat. The joystick controls at least one of moving the work machine over ground and movement of the bucket. The joystick has a first actuator (such as a trigger button) that is operable to selectively engage ride control functionality. |
| US09055713B2 |
All wheel drive, walk behind mower
A drive system includes a first transmission, a second transmission and at least one flexible driving member. The first transmission is operably coupled to a first set of wheels to provide drive power to the first set of wheels responsive to engagement of the first transmission. The second transmission is operably coupled to a second set of wheels to provide drive power to the second set of wheels responsive to engagement of the second transmission. The at least one flexible driving member is operably coupled to a remote actuator and a drive shaft of the walk-behind outdoor power equipment device. The at least one flexible member selectively engages one of the first transmission or the second transmission to switch a walk-behind outdoor power equipment device between all wheel drive operation and another drive mode via the remote actuator. |
| US09055712B2 |
Agricultural apparatus with integrated controller for a row unit
An agricultural row unit includes a linkage assembly that is pivotably coupled to an attachment frame. A hydraulic cylinder is coupled to the linkage assembly and applies pressure to the linkage assembly. A controller is mounted in the row unit such that is coupled to the hydraulic cylinder for controlling the pressure applied by the hydraulic cylinder. |