US07750325B2

Apparatus for producing and storing positrons may include a trap that defines an interior chamber therein and that contains an electric field and a magnetic field. The trap may further include a source material that includes atoms that, when activated by photon bombardment, become positron emitters to produce positrons. The trap may also include a moderator positioned adjacent the source material. A photon source is positioned adjacent the trap so that photons produced by the photon source bombard the source material to produce the positron emitters. Positrons from the positron emitters and moderated positrons from the moderator are confined within the interior chamber of the trap by the electric and magnetic fields. Apparatus for producing and storing protons are also disclosed.
US07750321B2

A positioning device for positioning an aperture plate in an ion beam of an ion implantation system has two fixture parts that can be moved relative to each other by means of at least one positioning drive, of which the one fixture part can be connected or is connected to an abutment point that is disposed in a fixed location relative to an ion beam source, and the other fixture part can be connected or is connected to the aperture plate. An adjustment device has a fixture device and a display device. By means of the position-changing device, it is possible to change the position of at least one of the fixture parts relative to the positioning drive. By means of the display device it is possible to check whether the fixture parts are in a predetermined position relative to each other. On the first fixture part or in a part that is connected thereto in a fixed position, the display device has at least one reference mark and on the second fixture part at least one optical projection device by which means at least one optical marking that is assigned to a reference mark, of which at least one must be present, can be projected onto the first fixture part.
US07750318B2

A first working process performs a deposition working or an etching working to a workpiece by face-irradiating a focused ion beam to the workpiece, and a second working process then performs a deposition working or an etching working to the workpiece by edge-irradiating a focused ion beam to an edge of the workpiece. During the first working process, the deposition working or the etching working is performed to add the missing portion or remove the excess portion to a point slightly short of the edge boundary of the workpiece, i.e., to a point that is less than the irradiation width of the focused ion beam. The remaining missing portion or the remaining excess portion is eliminated in the second working process by edge-irradiating the focused ion beam to the edge of the workpiece.
US07750314B2

An elevated temperature RF ion source system, comprising an ion source body, an RF antenna coil external to the ion source body, a vacuum enclosure surrounding both the outside surface of the ion source body and the RF antenna coil, at least one power supply, a gas delivery system operatively coupled to the ion source body, a vacuum condition between the outside surface of the ion source body and the RF antenna coil, the RF antenna coil operatively coupled to the at least one power supply, and a water cooling system operatively coupled to the RF antenna coil and the vacuum enclosure.
US07750306B2

Embodiments of a radiation detector and subassemblies thereof are provided having a scintillator with a face and a reflector constructed and arranged to redirect a majority of light leaving the face of the scintillator at an angle within a range of 45 to 135 degrees compared to the direction in which the light was traveling when it left the face. In other embodiments a method is provided including receiving radiation into a scintillator having a face, producing light with the scintillator in response to the radiation, allowing at least a portion of the light to leave the face, and reflecting a majority of the light leaving the face at an angle within a range of 45 to 135 degrees compared to the direction in which the light was traveling when it left the face with a reflector. Other embodiments are directed to a reflector including a plurality of prisms having a first face and a second face with a barrier on the first face.
US07750291B2

A mass spectrometric method for analyzing a vaporized sample, comprising the steps of: forcing sequentially generated charge-laden liquid drops to move towards a receiving unit of a mass spectrometer along a traveling path; establishing a concentration gradient for a target analyte so as to permit diffusion of the vaporized sample which contains at least one of the target analyte therein along a plurality of diffusing paths; and introducing the target-analyte containing vaporized sample through an inlet such that at least one of said diffusing paths intersects said traveling path so as to enable said at least one target analyte to be occluded in at least one of said charge-laden liquid drops to thereby form at least one corresponding ionized analyte for analysis by the mass spectrometer.
US07750287B2

A temperature control apparatus is provided which may control temperature of an optical component that operates upon receipt of light from a light source. The apparatus may include a light quantity detector which detects a quantity of light based on the light source; and a temperature regulator which performs regulating operation for regulating the temperature of the optical component on the basis of the light quantity detected by the light quantity detector.
US07750285B2

An optical sensor is characterized by comprising a photoconductive material (1) which generates a carrier (4) inside when irradiated with a light or an electromagnetic wave (3), and carbon nanotube (2), and by sensing the carrier (4), which is generated within the photoconductive material (1) by irradiation of the light or electromagnetic wave (3), through change of electrical conduction of the carbon nanotube (2).
US07750280B2

A back-illuminated image sensor may include a substrate in which photodiodes are disposed; an insulating layer on a first surface of the substrate; an interconnection layer in the insulating layer; an anti-reflection layer between the substrate and the insulating layer; a plurality of color filters on a second surface of the substrate opposite to the first surface; and a microlens on the color filters. Because the anti-reflection layer may be between the substrate and an interlayer dielectric layer, the reflection rate of light that passes through the substrate and arrives at an interface between the substrate and the interlayer insulating layer may be reduced.
US07750279B2

The image pickup apparatus includes: an image pickup device including a pixel region and an electrode; an electric board including the image pickup device arranged to cover an opening and a connection pattern arranged in the vicinity of an edge portion of the opening, in which a first adhesive is applied between the image pickup device and the electric board from the outer edge of the image pickup device at least to an electric connection portion between the connection pattern and the electrode and applied annularly with a first band along an outer edge of the image pickup device; and a protective cover fixed by a second adhesive so as to cover the opening on the other surface of the electric board, wherein the second adhesive is applied annularly with a second band so that the first band width overlaps within the second one.
US07750277B2

An optical signal transmitting apparatus includes a light-emitting element, a light-receiving section, a conductive line and a controller. The light-emitting element converts an electric signal into an optical signal. The light-receiving section converts the optical signal, which is received from the light-emitting element through an optical transmission medium, into an electric signal. The conductive line is connected to an output terminal of the light-receiving section. The light-receiving section outputs an analog signal through the output terminal. The controller controls an extinction ratio of the light-emitting element in accordance with a characteristic impedance of the conductive line.
US07750275B2

A folding control surface assembly includes a torsion shaft, a base, and a control surface hingedly attached to the base via the torsion shaft, such that the torsion shaft biases the control surface toward an unfolded configuration with respect to the base. A vehicle includes a body and at least one folding control surface assembly. The at least one folding control surface assembly includes a torsion shaft, a base attached to the body, and a control surface hingedly attached to the base via the torsion shaft, such that the torsion shaft biases the control surface toward an unfolded configuration with respect to the base.
US07750268B2

An energy-efficient method and system for processing target material such as microstructures in a microscopic region without causing undesirable changes in electrical and/or physical characteristics of material surrounding the target material is provided. The system includes a controller for generating a processing control signal and a signal generator for generating a modulated drive waveform based on the processing control signal. The waveform has a sub-nanosecond rise time. The system also includes a gain-switched, pulsed semiconductor seed laser for generating a laser pulse train at a repetition rate. The drive waveform pumps the laser so that each pulse of the pulse train has a predetermined shape. Further, the system includes a laser amplifier for optically amplifying the pulse train to obtain an amplified pulse train without significantly changing the predetermined shape of the pulses. The amplified pulses have little distortion and have substantially the same relative temporal power distribution as the original pulse train from the laser. Each of the amplified pulses has a substantially square temporal power density distribution, a sharp rise time, a pulse duration and a fall time. The system further includes a beam delivery and focusing subsystem for delivering and focusing at least a portion of the amplified pulse train onto the target material.
US07750265B2

A plasma apparatus is provided including a cathode module, an anode module, and at least one inter-electrode insert located between the cathode module and the anode module. The cathode module includes at least one cathode, and a pilot module may be provided adjacent to the cathode module. The pilot module may assist ignition of the plasma apparatus. The inter-electrode insert may have an upstream and a downstream transverse surface. Both the upstream transverse surface and the downstream transverse surface are angled in a downstream direction.
US07750260B2

A leading auxiliary switch includes an auxiliary switch housing for attachment to a circuit breaker. An operating slide is provided having a sliding edge and being supported so as to be movable in a first sliding direction. A contact carrier is provided supported so as to be movable parallel to the first sliding direction. The contact carrier includes a sliding nose and is movable in a first operating phase of the operating slide against an action of a contact pressure spring into an ON position of movable contacts with fixed contacts. A drive slide is supported in the auxiliary switch housing so as to be movable in a second sliding direction transverse to the first sliding direction, the drive slide including first and second opposed sliding surfaces extending at an angle to the first and second sliding directions. The sliding edge of the operating slide abuts against the first sliding surface in the first operating phase and is out of contact with the first sliding surface in the second operating phase.
US07750253B2

A scale may include a conveyor belt that carries a load, where the load has a weight. A generator is included that receives mechanical energy arising from movement of the conveyor belt and outputs electrical energy that corresponds to a rate of movement of the conveyor belt. At least one load cell receives the electrical energy from the generator, senses the weight of the load, and outputs a voltage that corresponds to the weight of the load and the rate of movement of the conveyor belt.
US07750238B2

An electrical junction box includes a box body provided with a first groove; an attachment bracket provided with a second groove; and a lower cover provided attached to the bottom surface of the box body. When the attachment bracket is properly mounted on the box body, the first and second grooves are arranged to form a single continuous third groove. A protrusion is provided on the lower cover and fits to the third groove.
US07750236B2

A support system for transmission lines includes a base plate, a securing assembly, and a supporting arm. The base plate is secured to the transmission line pole with the securing assembly. The supporting arm can include an insulating apparatus; the insulator apparatus of the supporting arm is adapted to provide a safe dielectric distance from the transmission power line and the transmission line structure, e.g., power pole. A first end of the supporting arm is carried by a mounting member and is connected to the transmission line pole via the base plate, while the second end can receive a conductor with a connector. The connector is adapted to secure a conductor, and is positioned at the second end of the insulator apparatus.
US07750235B2

Nanocomposite photovoltaic devices are provided that generally include semiconductor nanocrystals as at least a portion of a photoactive layer. Photovoltaic devices and other layered devices that comprise core-shell nanostructures and/or two populations of nanostructures, where the nanostructures are not necessarily part of a nanocomposite, are also features of the invention. Varied architectures for such devices are also provided including flexible and rigid architectures, planar and non-planar architectures and the like, as are systems incorporating such devices, and methods and systems for fabricating such devices. Compositions comprising two populations of nanostructures of different materials are also a feature of the invention.
US07750224B1

Graphical musical user interface representation for presenting a stringed musical instrument composition, the stringed musical instrument composition including a plurality of note representations, the graphical musical user interface representation including a plurality of graphically encoded note path representations that include a plurality of graphically encoded note representations, and a plurality of graphically encoded note transitions, the plurality of graphically encoded note path representations are located in a coordinate system of the graphical musical user interface representation, each of the graphically encoded note path representations corresponding to a respective open-string pitch, of a respective string of a stringed musical instrument, the plurality of graphically encoded note representation are of a respective note group of note representations, the respective note group being associated with the respective string, each of the graphically encoded note path representations being encoded according to a respective graphical code, the respective graphical code being respective of said respective open-string pitch, each of the graphically encoded note representations representing respective tonal characteristics, relative to the respective open-string pitch, according to a coordinate of the respective graphically encoded note representation, in the coordinate system, and according to the respective graphical code, the plurality of graphically encoded note transitions being respective of the respective note group, each of the graphically encoded note transitions being encoded according to the respective graphical code.
US07750221B2

A keyboard-type tone plate percussion instrument which is simple in construction and light in weight and capable of easily unifying key-operation feelings and efficiently outputting well-balanced sounds. Percussion units are arranged to respectively correspond to keys and tone plates and each strike a corresponding tone plate when driven by a key depressing operation. A resonance box has resonance chambers corresponding to the tone plates and each having an opening side thereof close to a corresponding tone plate. The tone plates are constructed into a single-stage structure where they are arranged in an order of tone pitch in a direction of array of the keys so that tone plates neighboring in specific tone pitch are arranged adjacent to each other. The percussion units are constructed into a single-stage structure where they are arranged to correspond to array of the tone plates.
US07750219B2

A bar chime apparatus has a mantle with one or more pivot mechanisms that connect two or more bar segments. The one or more pivot mechanisms have two or more slots. The two or more bar segments can be folded and secured in the two or more slots. Two or more bar chimes are suspended from the mantle.
US07750218B2

A percussion instrument that produces a vibrato which is the most noticeable characteristic of the instrument. In one embodiment, the instrument is configured as a single two-dimensional curve, or a primary curve which is deeper or more pronounced than secondary curves along the surface of said instrument, and wherein said primary curve facilitates an oscillating flexing motion which produces an increase in the amplitude of the lowest frequency mode of vibration, the low pitch frequency modulates the whole of the spectrum of a musical sound by repeatedly raising and lowering said spectrum of sound in a periodic or oscillating manner, this effect being defined here as “vibrato”. The instrument is suspended from one or more points, by means of an instrument supporting member or mounting device, rigid or flexible. The suspension or mounting points approximate the nodal area of the instrument.
US07750212B2

The invention relates to the novel cotton variety designated 04P011. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants, plant parts and derivatives of the cotton variety 04P011. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the cotton variety 04P011 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing cotton plants by crossing the cotton variety 04P011 with itself or another cotton variety and plants produced by such methods.
US07750210B2

This invention is in the field of plant molecular biology. More specifically, this invention pertains to compositions having increased levels of at least one phytosterol, said compositions being obtained from plants or plant parts, and methods thereof. The plants may have decreased levels of triterpene saponins. The plants or plant parts may comprise at least one recombinant DNA molecule comprising a promoter operably linked to at least a portion of at least one polynucleotide from at least one oxidosqualene cyclase gene, said recombinant DNA molecule sufficient to increase the production of at least one phytosterol; or any progeny of said plant, wherein said progeny comprise said recombinant DNA molecule. Compositions, oils, as well as food and feed products obtained from or prepared with said compositions are also part of the invention.
US07750207B2

The present invention provides gene regulatory element polynucleotide molecules, including a promoter and a leader, identified from the ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase activase (RUA) Zea mays gene, useful for expressing transgenes in plants. The invention further discloses compositions, polynucleotide constructs, transformed host cells, transgenic plants and seeds comprising the Zea mays gene regulatory molecules, and methods for preparing and using the same.
US07750201B2

A wound dressing includes one or more layers containing a first anti-microbial agent and at least one of: a chelating agent, and a second anti-microbial agent.
US07750199B1

A decontamination formulation and method of making that neutralizes the adverse health effects of both chemical and biological compounds, especially chemical warfare (CW) and biological warfare (BW) agents, and toxic industrial chemicals. The formulation provides solubilizing compounds that serve to effectively render the chemical and biological compounds, particularly CW and BW compounds, susceptible to attack, and at least one reactive compound that serves to attack (and detoxify or kill) the compound. The formulation includes at least one solubilizing agent, a reactive compound, a sorbent additive, and water. A highly adsorbent sorbent additive (e.g., amorphous silica, sorbitol, mannitol, etc.) is used to “dry out” one or more liquid ingredients into a dry, free-flowing powder that has an extended shelf life, and is more convenient to handle and mix in the field. The formulation can be pre-mixed and pre-packaged as a multi-part kit system, where one or more of the parts are packaged in a powdered, granulated form for ease of handling and mixing in the field.
US07750198B2

Aromatic by-products are sorbed from mono-olefin-containing feedstocks of olefins having from about 6 to 22 carbon atoms per molecule that contain aromatic by-products having from 7 to 22 carbon atoms per molecule. A benzene-containing regenerant displaces and desorbs the aromatic by-products from the sorbent and a regeneration effluent is provided. The regeneration effluent is treated in a regeneration effluent distillation system to provide a benzene-rich stream and an aromatic by-products-containing stream. The latter is subjected to benzene-forming conditions and recycled to the regeneration effluent distillation system where benzene is recovered.
US07750197B2

The invention relates to a process for alkylating a hydrocarbon feed which comprises contacting the hydrocarbon feed to be alkylated with an alkylation agent in the presence of a catalyst comprising a solid acid, a hydrogenation metal, and 1.5-6 wt % of water, measured as the loss on ignition at 600° C. The presence of 1.5-6 wt % of water results in a higher activity and a higher alkylate quality compared with a comparable but drier catalyst.
US07750177B2

A process for the preparation of entacapone, in particular as the polymorphic form A, comprising the preparation of a compound of formula (V), wherein R is C1-C6 alkyl, by condensation of N,N-diethyl-cyano-acetamide with a compound of formula (IV), wherein R is C1-C6 alkyl, in the presence of a strong basic agent; the dealkylation of the compound of formula (V) to obtain entacapone, and the crystallization thereof from methyl ethyl ketone is performed to yield the polymorphic form A. The polymorphic form A of entacapone may be used to treat Parkinson's disease and/or to enhance effectiveness of muscle control.
US07750172B2

Ruthenium and osmium carbene compounds that are stable in the presence of a variety of functional groups and can be used to catalyze olefin metathesis reactions on unstrained cyclic and acyclic olefins are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods of making the carbene compounds. The carbene compounds are of the formula where M is Os or Ru; R1 is hydrogen; R is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, and substituted or unsubstituted aryl; X and X1 are independently selected from any anionic ligand; and L and L1 are independently selected from any neutral electron donor. The ruthenium and osmium carbene compounds of the present invention may be synthesized using diazo compounds, by neutral electron donor ligand exchange, by cross metathesis, using acetylene, using cumulated olefins, and in a one-pot method using diazo compounds and neutral electron donors. The ruthenium and osmium carbene compounds of the present invention may be used to catalyze olefin metathesis reactions including, but not limited to, ROMP, RCM, depolymerization of unsaturated polymers, synthesis of telechelic polymers, and olefin synthesis.
US07750171B2

Process for preparing catalyst assemblies by mixing a metal catalyst capable of catalyzing a hydrosilylation reaction and an organophosphorus inhibitor of the formula (I) or of formula (VIII) P(OR)3, either by mixing the inhibitor into a solution of catalyst in an unsaturated silane or siloxane or by mixing the inhibitor into a gum or oil at a temperature greater than the melting temperature or softening temperature of the organophosphorus compound, then mixing the catalyst. Catalyst assemblies, process for preparing one-component silicone compositions, and resultant compositions.
US07750170B2

The invention provides a process for the mixing of an oxidant having explosive potential with a hydrocarbon material, which comprises conveying a first stream comprising the hydrocarbon material and a second stream comprising the oxidant into a microchannel apparatus, allowing mixing to occur, and withdrawing the mixture. The process is useful for the preparation of ethylene oxide.
US07750167B2

The invention relates to a novel process for the preparation of asenapine, i.e. trans-5-chloro-2-methyl-2,3,3a,12b-tetrahydro-1H-dibenz[2,3:6,7]oxepino[4,5-c]pyrrole, as well as to novel intermediate products for use in said process.
US07750165B2

The invention provides two crystalline forms A and B of the skeletal muscle relaxant and anxiolytic agent, Metaxalone of formula (I), and a process for preparation thereof. The two crystalline forms A and B are bioavailable. The invention further provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising the two bioavailable crystalline forms, useful for the relief of discomforts associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions.
US07750160B2

The invention provides methods and compositions for treating conditions mediated by various kinases wherein derivatives of urea compounds are employed. The invention also provides methods of using the compounds and/or compositions in the treatment of a variety of diseases and unwanted conditions in subjects.
US07750152B2

Disclosed are dihydropteridinones of general formula (I) wherein the groups L and R1-R5 have the meanings given in the claims and specification, the pharmaceutical compositions, isomers, intermediates thereof and processes for preparing these dihydropteridinones. The compounds are useful the treatment and/or prevention of cancer, infections, inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.
US07750151B2

The present invention is directed to compounds which contain substituted napthyridines which inhibit the activity of Akt, a serine/threonine protein kinase. The invention is further directed to chemotherapeutic compositions containing the compounds of this invention and methods for treating cancer comprising administration of the compounds of the invention.
US07750148B2

An intermediate compound represented by formula (IV) as follows:
US07750145B2

A compound having an SGLT1 and/or SGLT2 inhibitory activity which is usable as an agent for the prevention or treatment of diabetes, postprandial hyperglycemia, impaired glucose tolerance, diabetic complications, obesity, etc. It is a 1-substituted-3-(β-D-glycopyranosyl) nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compound represented by the general formula (I), a prodrug thereof, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, or a hydrate or a solvate thereof; an SGLT inhibitor containing the same; a pharmaceutical composition containing the same and a combination pharmacy of them. In the formula, A represents an alkylene group or alkenylene group; B represents a single bond, —O—, —S— or —NH—; C represents an optionally substituted aryl or heteroaryl group; Q independently represents a carbon atom which a hydrogen atom or a substituent binds to, or a nitrogen atom.
US07750139B2

Novel nucleic acids derived from the 5′ untranslated regions of the 2S albumin and 11S globulin genes from sesame are disclosed. These novel nucleic acids can be used to direct expression of coding nucleic acids. Expression constructs can be introduced into a plant cell to generate a transgenic plant cell or to generate a transgenic plant.
US07750133B2

This invention discloses two new VEGI isoforms named VEGI-192a and VEGI-192b consisting of 192 amino acid residues. These isoforms show endothelial cell-specific expression and share a C-terminal 151-residues segment with the previously described VEGI-174 and VEGI-251. Methods of using these isoforms of VEGI in diagnosing, screening agonist and antagonist of the isoforms, and treating various angiogenesis-related diseases are also disclosed.
US07750131B2

The present invention provides 5′-modified bicyclic nucleoside analogs and oligomeric compounds comprising at least one of these nucleoside analogs. In preferred embodiments the nucleoside analogs have either (R) or (S)-chirality at the 5′-carbon. These bicyclic nucleoside analogs are useful for enhancing properties of oligomeric compounds including for example enhanced nuclease resistance.
US07750127B2

The present invention concerns compositions of matter, for example, but not limited to, modified antibodies, in which one or more biologically active peptides are incorporated into a loop region of a non-terminal domain of an immunoglobulin Fc domain.
US07750120B2

The invention provides vitamin K-dependent polypeptides with enhanced membrane binding affinity. These polypeptides can be used to modulate clot formation in mammals. Methods of modulating clot formation in mammals are also described.
US07750119B2

Substantially pure 2S canola protein is obtained substantially free from 7S and 12S canola protein by a procedure in which 2S canola protein is captured by binding to a cation-exchange medium while permitting other proteins and impurities to be washed away. The 2S canola protein then is removed from the cation-exchange medium by exposure of the cation-exchange medium to saline at a suitably high salt concentration.
US07750098B2

A method of manufacturing, by suspension polymerization, dielectric copolymers, including injecting an initial mixture of constituent monomers into an autoclave at constant temperature and pressure, wherein the mixture of constituent monomers including vinylidene difluoride (VDF), trifluoroethylene (TrFE), and a monomer 2 to 10 times more reactive than VDF and TrFE; and continuously reinjecting at constant pressure, as soon as the reaction is initiated and throughout the duration of polymerization, a second mixture of the constituent monomers, wherein the molar composition of the initial mixture and the second mixture are determined by calculation, in a manner known of itself, taking into account the desired molar composition of the copolymer and the higher reactivity of the third monomer.
US07750097B2

The present invention relates to catalyst systems for preparing isotactic polyolefins which are obtained by reacting at least one chiral coordination compound of a main group element selected from the group of elements consisting of Al, Si, P, S, Ga, Ge, As, Se, In, Sn, Sb, Te, TI, Pb, Bi and Po as central atom and at least one cocatalyst which is able to convert the chiral coordination compound into a species which displays polymerization activity toward at least one olefin, with the chiral coordination compound comprising two bidentate chelating ligands joined to one another via a bridge and, optionally, one or two further monodentate ligands and with the four coordinating atoms of the two chelating ligands surrounding the main group element as central atom of the coordination compound in an approximately planar fashion and up to two further ligands being located above and below this approximately planar coordination sphere formed by the four coordinating atoms of the two chelating ligands and, in the case of two such further ligands, these being in trans positions relative to one another.
US07750094B2

The present invention relates to novel adducts useful for improving the toughness and curable compositions using such toughening adducts. In a particular aspect, the present invention relates to novel toughening adducts and curable compositions having improved fracture toughness using those toughening adducts.
US07750089B2

A composition of the reaction product of (a) an isobutylene-diene copolymer having thereon groups containing carboxylic acid functionality or reactive equivalent thereof, derived from an α,β-unsaturated carboxylic compound; and (b) an amine component comprising at least one aromatic amine containing at least one N—H group capable of condensing with said carboxylic acid functionality, is a useful dispersant viscosity modifier.
US07750083B2

A screw cap is disclosed comprising a composition based on a multimodal ethylene polymer having a standard density (SD) greater than 950 kg/m3 and a melt flow index MI2 of less than 10 g/10 min, said multimodal ethylene polymer comprising from 35 to 65 wt %, based on the total weight of the multimodal ethylene polymer, of a fraction of ethylene polymer (A) having an SD(A) of more than 965 kg/m3 and a melt flow index MI2(A) of at least 10 g/10 min, and from 65 to 35 wt % based on the total weight of the multimodal ethylene polymer, of a fraction of a copolymer (B) of ethylene and at least one alpha-olefin containing from 3 to 12 carbon atoms, and having a melt flow index MI2(B) of less than 10 g/10 min and a content of said alpha-olefin(s) of from 0.1 to 5 mol %. This composition is said to demonstrate an excellent balance between ESCR, injectability and impact resistance, together with excellent organoleptic properties.
US07750080B2

Power cable coating compounds are disclosed, the coating compounds including an ethylene alpha-olefin diene elastomeric terpolymer, and an ethylene alpha-olefin copolymer having a Melt Index Ratio I10/I2 of at least 7 and/or a Melt Index Ratio I21/I2 of at least 20. In various embodiments, the ethylene alpha-olefin copolymer can be present in the coating compound in amounts up to 90 percent by weight, based on the weight of the ethylene alpha-olefin diene elastomeric terpolymer and the ethylene alpha-olefin copolymer. Also disclosed are electrical devices including extruded coating compounds, the extruded compounds having low surface roughness at high extrusion rates.
US07750073B2

Compositions and methods for the formation of physically cross-linked thermoplastic elastomeric films are disclosed. The disclosed films are long-lasting, flexible, transfer resistant, and water-proof. The film-forming compositions comprise a thermoplastic elastomer, a tackifier resin, and a volatile solvent useful for formulating cosmetics, personal care products, and pharmaceutical compositions.
US07750071B2

The disclosure provides compositions prepared by combining nanomaterials with a halide-containing polymer, thereby forming a combined polymer matrix having dispersed nanomaterials within the matrix. The nanomaterials may be carbon-based nanotubes, in some applications. A halide-containing monomer is combined with nanotubes, and then polymerized in some compositions. In other applications, a halide-containing polymer is solution processed with nanotubes to form useful compositions in the invention. Also disclosed are probes for near field detection of radiation.
US07750066B2

The present invention provides for a method of producing a composition containing a polymer having undergone phase inversion, the method comprising the step of: effecting phase inversion of a phase invertible water insoluble polymer in an aqueous composition and the composition comprises a mixture of at least two different substances, one of which is a water insoluble dispersible polymer having undergone phase inversion while the other is optionally a contaminant.
US07750064B2

An antibacterial measure using titanium oxide includes mixing titanium oxide in a resin to form a coating resin, and then coating a key surface with the coating resin. This method requires formation of a coating layer on a resin molding and thus increases the number of the production steps and cost. Furthermore, in the method, a coating film containing an antibacterial agent is scraped off light by little at each time of keying, and thus the film is finally completely removed to lose its antibacterial function. A conceivable measure against this includes directly mixing a resin and an antibacterial agent. However, titanium oxide used as an antibacterial agent degrades a raw material resin. It has recently be thought that photocatalytic apatite as a substitute for titanium oxide also causes chalking, and an antibacterial coating layer has been formed on a surface of a resin molding. However, the inventor of the present invention found that photocatalytic apatite does not cause chalking, thereby achieving a resin containing the photocatalytic apatite.
US07750062B2

A method of producing a polymeric material including subjecting a starting material to conditions under which polymerisation occurs. The starting material includes a group of sub-formula (XIII) where R16 is selected from hydrogen, halo, nitro, hydrocarbyl, optionally substituted or interposed with functional groups, or R2 and R3 are independently selected from (CR6R7)n or a group CR8R9, CR6R7CR8R9 or CR8R9CR6R7 where n is 0, 1 or 2 and R6 and R7 are independently selected from hydrogen or alkyl, and either one of R8 or R9 is hydrogen and the other is an electron withdrawing group, or R8 or R9 together form an electron withdrawing group. R4 and R5 are independently selected from CH or CR1o where CR1o is an electron withdrawing group, X1 is a group CX2X3, Y1 is a group CY2Y3, and X2 X3, and, if present, Y2 and Y3, are each a C1 to C4 alkyl group.
US07750061B2

An ink, method of inkjet printing the ink and game ball utilizing the ink are disclosed. The ink preferably comprises a diacrylate oligomer. The ink more preferably comprises an acrylate monomer in an amount ranging from 15 to 40 parts of a solid component of the ink, a diacrylate oligomer in an amount of 20 to 40 parts of a solid component of the ink, a pigment in an amount of 5 to 15 parts of a solid component, and a thinning agent.
US07750048B2

The invention is directed to compounds of Formula (I) useful as GPR40 agonists. Pharmaceutical compositions and methods of treating one or more conditions including, but not limited to, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, obesity, diabetes such as NIDDM, and other disorders related to lipid metabolism, energy homeostasis, and complications thereof, using compounds of the invention are also described.
US07750042B2

One embodiment of the present invention is a compound represented by the Structural Formula (I): Y is a covalent bond of a substituted or unsubstituted straight chained hydrocarbyl group. In addition, Y, taken together with both >C═Z groups to which it is bonded, is a substituted or unsubstituted aromatic group. Preferably, Y is a covalent bond or —C(R7R8)—. R1 is an aliphatic group, a substituted aliphatic group, a non-aromatic heterocyclic group, or a substituted non-aromatic heterocyclic group, R2-R4 are independently —H, an aliphatic group, a substituted aliphatic group, a non-aromatic heterocyclic group, a substituted non-aromatic heterocyclic group, an aryl group or a substituted aryl group, or R1 and R3 taken together with the carbon and nitrogen atoms to which they are bonded, and/or R2 and R4 taken together with the carbon and nitrogen atoms to which they are bonded, form a non-aromatic heterocyclic ring optionally fused to an aromatic ring. R5-R6 are independently —H, an aliphatic group, a substituted aliphatic group, an aryl group or a substituted aryl group. R7 and R8 are each independently —H, an aliphatic or substituted aliphatic group, or R7 is —H and R8 is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group, or, R7 and R8, taken together, are a C2-C6 substituted or unsubstituted alkylene group. Z is ═O or ═S. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compound of the present invention and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent.
US07750040B2

The invention relates to novel thiophene derivatives, their preparation and their use as pharmaceutically active compounds. Said compounds particularly act as immunosuppressive agents.
US07750039B2

The present invention provides novel compounds of Formula (I) which are CB2 selective ligands useful for the treatment of pain.
US07750038B2

Compounds of the following structure are provided, wherein n, R1-R3 and R6-R9 are defined below, as are methods of preparing and using these compounds for contraception; treating or preventing fibroids, uterine leiomyomata, endometriosis, dysfunctional bleeding, polycystic ovary syndrome, and hormone-dependent carcinomas; providing hormone replacement therapy; stimulating food intake; synchronizing estrus; and treating cycle-related symptoms.
US07750028B2

The invention relates to the novel modifications B and C of the compound 1-(2,6-difluorobenzyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazole-4-carboxamide of the formula its use and pharmaceutical preparations comprising this crystal modifications.
US07750024B2

It is an object of the present invention to provide a novel therapeutic agent for glioblastoma.In accordance with the present invention, it was found that compounds having an antagonistic action against AMPA receptor are useful as therapeutic agents for glioblastoma, particularly primary glioblastoma de novo with a high malignancy level, and the object has been attained.
US07750021B2

The present invention relates to immunosuppressant, process for their production, their uses and pharmaceutical compositions containing them. The invention provides a novel class of compounds useful in the treatment or prevention of diseases or disorders mediated by lymphocyte interactions, particularly diseases associated with EDG receptor mediated signal transduction.
US07750019B2

A compound represented by the following general formula (I) or a salt thereof, or a solvate thereof: (wherein R1, R2, R3, R4 and R5 are the same or different, and represent hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a lower alkyl group etc., R6, R7 and R8 are the same or different, and represent hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a lower alkyl group etc., R9 and R10 are the same or different, and represent hydrogen atom, a lower alkyl group, a (lower cycloalkyl)(lower alkyl) group etc., and R11 represents hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a lower alkoxy group, a (lower alkyl)thio(lower alkoxy) group, a (lower alkyl)sulfinyl(lower alkoxy) group, a (lower alkyl)sulfonyl(lower alkoxy) group etc.), which has potent inhibitory activity on CETP.
US07750018B2

Method and composition of Carboxyamidotriazole orotate for treating age-related macular degeneration and other angiogenesis-dependent diseases.
US07750014B2

The present invention relates to an imidazo[1,2-c]pyrimidinylacetic acid derivative and salts thereof which is useful as an active ingredient of pharmaceutical preparations. The imidazo[1,2-c]pyrimidinylacetic acid derivative of the present invention has excellent CRTH2 (G-protein-coupled chemoattractant receptor, expressed on Th2 cells) antagonistic activity and can be used for the prophylaxis and treatment of diseases associated with CRTH2 activity, in particular for the treatment of allergic diseases, such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, and allergic conjunctivitis; eosinophil-related diseases, such as Churg-Strauss syndrome and sinusitis; basophil-related diseases, such as basophilic leukemia, chronic urticaria and basophilic leukocytosis in human and other mammals; and inflammatory diseases characterized by T lymphocytes and profuse leukocyte infiltrates such as psoriasis, eczema, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder) and arthritis.
US07750008B2

The present invention provides compounds which inhibit poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (“PARP”), compositions containing these compounds and methods for using these PARP inhibitors to treat, prevent and/or ameliorate the effects of the conditions described herein.
US07750007B2

The present invention provides protein kinase inhibitors comprising imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine and pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine compounds of the following structure (I) and (II): or a stereoisomer, prodrug or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R, R1, R2 and X are as defined herein. Compositions and methods for using the same in the treatment of cancer and other Pim kinase-associated conditions are also disclosed.
US07750000B2

The invention relates to novel inhibitors of kinases, and pharmaceutical compositions comprising them. The inhibitors are substituted imidazo[1,2b]pyridazines.
US07749993B2

A method for treating severe heart failure, comprising administering to a patient an effective amount of a benzazepine compound (1): wherein R1 is H or halogen, R2 is OH, or —NR5R6 (R5 and R6 are H or lower alkyl, R3 is H, halogen, lower alkyl, or lower alkoxy, R4 is halogen, lower alkyl or lower alkoxy, or a salt thereof, and a pharmaceutical composition containing the benzazepine compound (1) or a salt thereof and use of the compound (1) or a salt thereof for preparing a medicament for treatment of severe heart failure.
US07749985B2

Acyloxyalkyl carbamate prodrugs of 3-aminopropylphosphinic acid and analogs thereof, methods of making acyloxyalkyl carbamate prodrugs of 3-aminopropylphosphinic acid and analogs thereof, methods of using acyloxyalkyl carbamate prodrugs of 3-aminopropylphosphinic acid and analogs thereof, and pharmaceutical compositions comprising acyloxyalkyl carbamate prodrugs 3-aminopropylphosphinic acid and analogs thereof for treating diseases or disorders such as mild cognitive impairment, cognitive impairment associated with Alzheimer's disease Alzheimer's disease, depression, anxiety, and epilepsy are disclosed. Acyloxyalkyl carbamate prodrugs of 3-aminopropylphosphinic acid and analogs thereof, which are suitable for oral administration and sustained release oral dosage forms are also disclosed.
US07749972B2

The present invention provides a compound having an SGLT1 and/or SGLT2 inhibitory activity which is usable as an agent for the prevention or treatment of diabetes, postprandial hyperglycemia, impaired glucose tolerance, diabetic complications, obesity or the like.It is a 1-substituted-7-(β-D-glycopyranosyloxy)(aza)-indole compound represented by the general formula (I), a prodrug thereof, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, or a hydrate or solvate thereof: wherein R1 represents a halogen atom or the like; n represents j an integer number from 0 to 3; R2 represents a hydrogen atom or the like; X represents a carbon atom which a hydrogen atom or the like binds to, or a nitrogen atom; Q represents an alkylene group or an alkenylene group each of which may have an oxygen atom or a sulfur atom in the chain; and A represents an aryl or heteroaryl group which may have a substituent.
US07749969B2

N- or C-terminally modified small peptides having antiarrhythmic properties are disclosed, and in particular small peptides that possess improved pharmacokinetic properties such as having a reduced tendency to inhibit the activity of isozyme 3A4 of cytochrome P 450 oxidase. The invention further relates to uses of said compounds in the preparation of a medicament, and to pharmaceutical compositions comprising said compounds.
US07749968B2

The invention provides isolated PSMA binding peptides, as well as pharmaceutical compositions thereof. Also provided are diagnostic and therapeutic methods utilizing the PSMA binding peptides, as well as methods for identifying further PSMA binding peptides.
US07749965B2

FGF18 is known to stimulate the proliferation of chondrocytes, bone, and nervous tissue, resulting in repair of diseased tissue. When an IL-1 antagonist is administered in addition to FGF18, the effects on the IL-1 mediated disease and also, the effect on cartilage, bone, and nervous cell proliferation, are found to be greater than administration of FGF18 or the IL-1 antagonist alone. The present invention encompasses a pharmaceutical composition that combines FGF18 with IL-1 antagonist and methods of treating IL-1 mediated disease using this pharmaceutical composition.
US07749954B2

The present invention relates to a novel use of calcitonin in osteoarthritis, and to methods of treating and/or preventing osteoarthritis in mammals, particularly humans.
US07749953B2

Novel methods and pharmaceutical compositions suitable for modulating bone growth and remodeling, preventing bone diseases, inducing bone growth or repair by cannabinoid receptor-mediated effects on bone cells is disclosed. Methods of identifying bone growth modulating agents are also disclosed.
US07749952B2

A fabric care composition containing non-ionic softening compounds, antistatic agents and perfume. Particularly, the fabric care composition is suitable for use in the rinse cycle of a textile laundering operation to provide excellent fabric softening/static control benefits, and surprisingly improved perfume freshness and longevity. The fabric care composition is preferably at a neutral pH.
US07749949B2

A composition comprising a liquid portion comprising at least one surfactant and at least one material chosen from at least one suspending agent and at least one viscosity control agent, wherein the composition has an apparent viscosity under a shear stress of 0.5 Pa of at least about 1,000 Pa·s; and the composition has an apparent viscosity under a shear stress of 100 Pa of less than about 10 Pa·s. The composition is capable of suspending materials, but it still has desired rheological properties.
US07749946B2

Improved gelled hydrocarbon fracturing fluids include a gelling agent and a crosslinking composition including a crosslinking agent and a catalytic agent. The catalytic agent is a fatty quaternized amine, which includes monoalkyl benzyl quaternized amines.
US07749940B2

A novel tagged triazine library is provided in which three building blocks are prepared separately and assembled orthogonally to yield 1536 highly pure compounds. Each library compound contains a variety of a triethyleneglycol (TG) linker at one of the diversity sites of the triazine scaffold.
US07749937B2

An unsupported catalyst composition which comprises one or more Group VIb metals, one or more Group VIII metals, and a refractory oxide material which comprises 50 wt % or more titania, on oxide basis, which is prepared by precipitation techniques, finds use in the hydroprocessing of hydrocarbonaceous feedstocks.
US07749933B2

The invention relates to a rheological additive comprising illite clay, smectic clay and an attapulgite suitable for controlling the application characteristics of a coating material for porous bodies.
US07749928B2

A gypsum board which comprises a set gypsum core sandwiched between and faced with fibrous mats, wherein a free surface of one of said mats is pre-coated with a combination of a mineral pigment, optionally an inorganic adhesive binder and an organic binder, preferably a hydrophobic, UV resistant polymer latex adhesive binder applied to said surface as an aqueous coating composition, said aqueous coating composition upon drying and setting providing a pre-coated mat satisfying certain morphology requirements.
US07749914B2

The present invention is a plasma etching method including: an arranging step of arranging a pair of electrodes oppositely in a chamber and making one of the electrodes support a substrate to be processed in such a manner that the substrate is arranged between the electrodes, the substrate having an organic-material film; and an etching step of applying a high-frequency electric power to at least one of the electrodes to form a high-frequency electric field between the pair of the electrodes, supplying a process gas into the chamber to form a plasma of the process gas by means of the electric field, and plasma-etching the organic-material film of the substrate by means of the plasma partway in order to form a groove having a flat bottom. A frequency of the high-frequency electric power applied to the at least one of the electrodes is 50 to 150 MHz in the etching step.
US07749912B2

A method for fabricating a bulb-shaped recess pattern includes: forming an etch barrier layer over a substrate; forming a hard mask pattern in which a first polymer is attached to sidewalls of the hard mask pattern over the etch barrier layer; sequentially etching the etch barrier layer and the substrate to form a recess pattern in which a second polymer is attached to sidewalls of the recess pattern; removing the first and second polymers and the hard mask pattern; forming a plurality of spacers exposing a bottom portion of the recess pattern; and etching the exposed bottom portion of the recess pattern to form a ball pattern.
US07749903B2

A method for self-aligned gate patterning is disclosed. Two masks are used to process adjacent semiconductor components, such as an nFET and pFET that are separated by a shallow trench isolation region. The mask materials are chosen to facilitate selective etching. The second mask is applied while the first mask is still present, thereby causing the second mask to self align to the first mask. This avoids the undesirable formation of a stringer over the shallow trench isolation region, thereby improving the yield of a semiconductor manufacturing operation.
US07749900B2

A semiconductor package comprises a semiconductor substrate that may comprise a core. The core may comprise one or more materials selected from a group comprising ceramics and glass dielectrics. The package further comprises a set of one or more inner conductive elements that is provided on the core, a set of one or more outer conductive elements that is provided on an outer side of the substrate, and a semiconductor die to couple to the substrate via one or more of the outer conductive elements. Example materials for the core may comprise one or more from alumina, zirconia, carbides, nitrides, fused silica, quartz, sapphire, and Pyrex. A laser may be used to drill one or more plated through holes to couple an inner conductive element to an outer conductive element. A dielectric layer may be formed in the substrate to insulate an outer conductive element from the core or an inner conductive element.
US07749896B2

Semiconductor devices and methods for forming the same in which damages to a low-k dielectric layer therein can be reduced or even prevented are provided. A semiconductor device is provided, comprising a substrate. A dielectric layer with at least one conductive feature therein overlies the substrate. An insulating cap layer overlies the top surface of the low-k dielectric layer adjacent to the conductive feature, wherein the insulating cap layer comprises metal ions.
US07749893B2

The present invention relates to methods and systems for the metallization of semiconductor devices. One aspect of the present invention is a method of depositing a copper layer onto a barrier layer so as to produce a substantially oxygen free interface therebetween. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a substantially oxide free surface of the barrier layer. The method also includes depositing an amount of atomic layer deposition (ALD) copper on the oxide free surface of the barrier layer effective to prevent oxidation of the barrier layer. The method further includes depositing a gapfill copper layer over the ALD copper. Another aspect of the present invention is a system for depositing a copper layer onto barrier layer so as to produce a substantially oxygen-free interface therebetween. In one embodiment, the integrated system includes at least one barrier deposition module. The system also includes an ALD copper deposition module configured to deposit copper by atomic layer deposition. The system further includes a copper gapfill module and at least one transfer module coupled to the at least one barrier deposition module and to the ALD copper deposition module. The transfer module is configured so that the substrate can be transferred between the modules substantially without exposure to an oxide-forming environment.
US07749889B2

The present invention relates to a manufacturing method of a semiconductor device having a size approximately same as the size of a semiconductor chip when viewed in a plan view, in which the semiconductor chip is flip-chip bonded to a wiring pattern, and an object of the invention is to provide the manufacturing method of a semiconductor device which allows reduction in the number of process steps to realize the minimization of manufacturing cost. An insulating resin 13 is formed so as to cover a plurality of internal connection terminals 12 and a surface of a plurality of semiconductor chips 11 on which the plurality of internal connection terminals are provided, then a metal layer 33 for forming a wiring pattern is formed over the insulating resin 13, and by pressing the metal layer 33, the metal layer 33 and the plurality of internal connection terminals 12 are pressure-bonded.
US07749886B2

A method of making a microelectronic assembly includes providing a semiconductor wafer having contacts accessible at a first surface, forming compliant bumps over the first surface and depositing a sacrificial layer over the compliant bumps. The method includes grinding the sacrificial layer and the compliant bumps so as to planarize top surfaces of the compliant bumps, whereby the planarized top surfaces are accessible through said sacrificial layer. The sacrificial layer is removed to expose the compliant bumps and the contacts. A silicone layer is deposited over the compliant bumps and portions of the silicone layer are removed to expose the contacts accessible at the first surface of the semiconductor wafer. Conductive traces are formed having first ends electrically connected with the contacts and second ends overlying the compliant bumps and conductive elements are provided atop the second ends of the traces.
US07749880B2

In a method of manufacturing a semiconductor integrated circuit device, a gate electrode is formed over a semiconductor substrate. An insulating film is then formed on the gate electrode and on regions corresponding to a source and a drain of the semiconductor integrated circuit device. The source and the drain are then formed. A nitride film is then selectively formed over the source and the gate electrode via the insulating film so that the nitride film extends over the gate electrode to a position short of a center of the gate electrode in a length direction thereof and so that a width of the nitride film is shorter than a channel width of the semiconductor integrated circuit device.
US07749872B2

Single-crystalline growth is realized using a liquid-phase crystallization approach involving the inhibition of defects typically associated with liquid-phase crystalline growth of lattice mismatched materials. According to one example embodiment, a semiconductor device structure includes a substantially single-crystal region. A liquid-phase material, such as Ge or a semiconductor compound, is crystallized to form the single-crystal region using an approach involving defect inhibition for the promotion of single-crystalline growth. In some instances, this defect inhibition involves the reduction and/or elimination of defects using a relatively small physical opening via which a crystalline growth front propagates. In other instances, this defect inhibition involves causing a change in crystallization front direction relative to a crystallization seed location. The relatively small physical opening and/or the change in crystalline front direction may be implemented, for example, using a material that is substantially unreactive with the liquid-phase material to contain the crystalline growth.
US07749870B2

Provided is a method for producing an SOI substrate comprising a transparent insulating substrate and a silicon film formed on a first major surface of the insulating substrate wherein a second major surface of the insulating substrate which is opposite to the major surface is roughened, the method suppressing the generation of metal impurities and particles in a simple and easy way. More specifically, provided is a method for producing an SOI substrate comprising a transparent insulating substrate, a silicon film formed on a first major surface of the transparent insulating substrate, and a roughened second major surface, which is opposite to the first major surface, the method comprising steps of: providing the transparent insulating substrate, mirror surface-processing at least the first major surface of the transparent insulating substrate, forming a silicon film on the first major surface of the transparent insulating substrate, and laser-processing the second major surface of the transparent insulating substrate so as to roughen the second major surface by using a laser.
US07749867B2

A method of cutting an object which can accurately cut the object is provided. An object to be processed 1 such as a silicon wafer is irradiated with laser light L while a light-converging point P is positioned therewithin, so as to form a modified region 7 due to multiphoton absorption within the object 1, and cause the modified region 7 to form a starting point region for cutting 8 shifted from the center line CL of the thickness of the object 1 toward the front face 3 of the object 1 along a line along which the object should be cut. Subsequently, the object 1 is pressed from the rear face 21 side thereof. This can generate a fracture from the starting point region for cutting 8 acting as a start point, thereby accurately cutting the object 1 along the line along which the object should be cut.
US07749865B2

A method for producing semiconductor wafers, from a semiconductor ingot, wherein an oxygen concentration distribution in the growth axis direction is measured in the ingot state (F2), a position at which the oxygen concentration is maximum or minimum in a range of a predetermined length is determined as a cut position according to the measurement results (F3), the ingot is cut in a perpendicular direction to the growth axis at the cut position into blocks each having the oxygen concentrations being maximum and minimum at both ends thereof (F4), each of the blocks is sliced, and thereby semiconductor wafers are produced. Thereby, there can be provided a technique by which when semiconductor wafers are produced from a semiconductor ingot, wafers having oxygen concentration being in a predetermined standard range can be certainly produced.
US07749864B2

A semiconductor device with a thinned semiconductor chip and a method for producing the latter is disclosed. In one embodiment, the thinned semiconductor chip has a top side with contact areas and a rear side with a rear side electrode. In this case, the rear side electrode is cohesively connected to a chip pad of a circuit carrier via an electrically conductive layer. In another embodiment, the thinned semiconductor chips of this semiconductor device according to the invention have low-microdefect edge side regions with semiconductor element structures and edge sides patterned by etching technology.
US07749855B2

A method of forming a capacitor for use as a charge pump with flash memory, comprising: (a) concurrently forming polysilicon gates on a semiconductor body in a core region and a polysilicon middle capacitor plate in a peripheral region, (b) forming a first dielectric layer over the polysilicon gates and the middle capacitor plate, (c) planarizing the first dielectric layer to expose a top portion of the polysilicon gates and a top portion of the middle capacitor plate, (d) forming a second dielectric layer over the top portion of the middle capacitor layer, (e) concurrently forming patterning a second polysilicon layer in the core region and a third capacitor plate in the periphery region and (f) connecting the third capacitor plate to the source/drain well.
US07749850B2

In a semiconductor device having a raised source and drain structure, in forming a raised region by etching, etching of an island-like semiconductor film which is an active layer is inhibited. In a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, an insulating film is formed by oxidizing or nitriding the surface of an island-like semiconductor film, a semiconductor film is formed on a region which is a part of the insulating film, a gate electrode is formed over the insulating film, an impurity element imparting one conductivity type is added to the island-like semiconductor film and the semiconductor film using the gate electrode as a mask, the impurity element is activated by heating the island-like semiconductor film and the semiconductor film, and the part of the insulating film between the island-like semiconductor film and the semiconductor film disappears by heating the island-like semiconductor film and the semiconductor film.
US07749839B2

A semiconductor device includes a semiconductor layer having a plurality of element regions in its surface area, which are delimited by at least one element isolation trench, a plurality of floating gate electrodes provided on the element regions with a first gate insulation film interposed therebetween and each including a first charge-storage layer having a first width which is equal to that of each of the element regions and a second charge-storage layer stacked on the first charge-storage layer and having a second width which is smaller than the first width, and a plurality of control gate electrodes provided on the floating gate electrodes with a second gate insulation films interposed therebetween. The device further includes an element isolating insulation film buried into the element isolation trench. The top surface of the element isolating insulation film is located higher than that of the first charge-storage layer.
US07749834B2

A method includes forming a lower dielectric layer on a semiconductor substrate, forming a bit line landing pad and a storage landing pad that penetrate the lower dielectric layer, covering the lower dielectric layer, the bit line landing pad, and the storage landing pad with an intermediate dielectric layer, forming an upper dielectric layer on the intermediate dielectric layer, partially removing the upper dielectric layer and the intermediate dielectric layer to form a contact opening that exposes the storage landing pad and a portion of the lower dielectric layer, forming a contact spacer on an inner wall of the contact opening, and filling the contact opening with a contact plug, a top surface of the contact plug larger than a surface of the contact plug that is in contact with the storage landing pad, the top surface of the contact plug eccentric in relation to the storage landing pad.
US07749819B2

It is an object to obtain a crystalline silicon film having preferable characteristics for a thin film transistor.A crystalline silicon film having improved crystallinity is obtained by the following steps: forming a silicon nitride film substantially in contact with an amorphous silicon film on glass substrate; introducing a catalyst element such as nickel; performing an annealing treatment at a temperature of 500 to 600° C. for crystallization; and further irradiating it with a laser light, thereby a crystalline silicon film having improved crystallinity can be obtained. By using the crystalline silicon film thus obtained, a semiconductor device such as a TFT having improved characteristic can be obtained.
US07749818B2

An objective is to provide a method of manufacturing a semiconductor device, and a semiconductor device manufactured by using the manufacturing method, in which a laser crystallization method is used that is capable of preventing the formation of grain boundaries in TFT channel formation regions, and is capable of preventing conspicuous drops in TFT mobility, reduction in the ON current, and increases in the OFF current, all due to grain boundaries. Stripe shape or rectangular shape unevenness or opening is formed. Continuous wave laser light is then irradiated to a semiconductor film formed on an insulating film. Note that although it is most preferable to use continuous wave laser light at this point, pulse wave oscillation laser light may also be used.
US07749817B2

A system and method for producing a single-crystal germanium layer on a dielectric layer by producing a germanium-on-insulator assembly between the surface portions of the third material. The choice of location for these surface portions therefore makes it possible to define the zone on which it is desired to produce the germanium-on-insulator layer. The wafer may be freely chosen between a pure single-crystal silicon wafer and a silicon-on-insulator wafer. A single-crystal germanium first layer is produced on the surface portion of the silicon. The RPCVD produces a partially crystalline germanium first layer. The layer thus comprises various nuclei that have crystallized in possibly different lattices. After carrying out a recrystallization annealing operation, which makes the layer monocrystalline by recrystallizing the various nuclei in one and the same crystal lattice. Thus, the layers are continuous with the single-crystal silicon lattice.
US07749814B2

A semiconductor device is made by providing a sacrificial substrate, forming a first insulating layer over the sacrificial substrate, forming a first passivation layer over the first insulating layer, forming a second insulating layer over the first passivation layer, forming an integrated passive device over the second insulating layer, forming a wafer support structure over the integrated passive device, removing the sacrificial substrate to expose the first insulating layer after forming the wafer support structure, and forming an interconnect structure over the first insulating layer in electrical contact with the integrated passive device. The integrated passive device includes an inductor, capacitor, or resistor. The sacrificial substrate is removed by mechanical grinding and wet etching. The wafer support structure can be glass, ceramic, silicon, or molding compound. The interconnect structure can include a solder bump, wire bond, and intermediate conduction layer formed on a backside of the semiconductor device.
US07749813B2

A packaging method comprises: forming a circuit board by forming a substantially continuous conductive layer on an insulating board and removing selected portions of the continuous conductive layer to define an electrically conductive trace; laser cutting the electrically conductive trace to define sub-traces electrically isolated from each other by a laser-cut gap formed by the laser cutting; and bonding a light emitting diode (LED) chip to the circuit board across or adjacent to the laser-cut gap, the bonding including operatively electrically connecting an electrode of the LED chip to one of the sub-traces without using an interposed submount. A semiconductor package comprises an LED chip flip-chip bonded to sub-traces of an electrically conductive trace of a circuit board, the sub-traces being electrically isolated from each other by a narrow gap of less than or about 100 microns.
US07749808B2

Stacked microelectronic devices and methods for manufacturing microelectronic devices are disclosed herein. An embodiment of one such microelectronic device can include a support member and a first known good microelectronic die attached to the support member. The first die includes an active side, a back side opposite the active side, a first terminal at the active side, and integrated circuitry electrically coupled to the first terminal. The first die also includes a first redistribution structure at the active side of the first die. The microelectronic device can also include a second known good microelectronic die attached to the first die in a stacked configuration such that a back side of the second die is facing the support member and an active side of the second die faces away from the support member. The second die includes a second redistribution structure at the active side of the second die. The device can further include a casing covering the first die, the second die, and at least a portion of the support member.
US07749806B2

A fabricating process of a chip package structure is provided. First, a first substrate having a plurality of first bonding pads and a second substrate having a plurality of second bonding pads are provide, wherein a plurality of bumps are formed on the first bonding pads of the first substrate. A first two-stage adhesive layer is formed on the first substrate and is B-stagized to form a first B-staged adhesive layer. A second two-stage adhesive layer is formed on the second substrate and is B-stagized to form a second B-staged adhesive layer. Then, the first substrate and the second substrate are bonded via the first B-staged adhesive layer and the second B-staged adhesive layer such that each of the first bonding pads is respectively electrically connected to one of the second bonding pads via one of the bumps.
US07749800B2

Provided is a photoelectric conversion device including: a semiconductor substrate (3) of a first conductivity type; a photoelectric conversion region (7) of a second conductivity type which is located in the semiconductor substrate (3), the second conductivity type being opposite to the first conductivity type; and a buried layer (17) of the first conductivity type which is formed in an inner portion of the semiconductor substrate (3) to cover a lower side of the photoelectric conversion region (7), the buried layer (17) including a higher impurity concentration than the semiconductor substrate (3).
US07749786B2

Some embodiments include methods of forming voids within semiconductor constructions. In some embodiments the voids may be utilized as microstructures for distributing coolant, for guiding electromagnetic radiation, or for separation and/or characterization of materials. Some embodiments include constructions having micro-structures therein which correspond to voids, conduits, insulative structures, semiconductor structures or conductive structures.
US07749781B2

A method for manufacturing a light-emitting diode having a high heat-dissipating efficiency forms a thickened metal into a plurality of supports. The support has a first electrode and a second electrode thereon. The first electrode is formed with a trough. The chip that emits a visible light or an invisible light is adhered in the trough. Then, two leads are welded on the chip. One end of each of the two leads is welded to the first and second electrodes respectively. Various glues are dotted on the chip, adhesive, leads and the support. Finally, the glue is formed into a seat and lens having a packaged chip, adhesive, leads and support by means of a hot press-forming process.
US07749777B2

A low-temperature poly-crystalline thin film transistor in which amorphous silicon is crystallized using a laser crystallization method or a metal induced lateral crystallization method shows an unstable electrical property since crystallization is accomplished at a low temperature. When an electrical stress is applied to the low-temperature poly-crystalline thin film transistor and a lower substrate for a display device including the same, an electrical feature thereof is enhanced. To apply an electrical stress to the low-temperature poly-crystalline thin film transistor, the source of a thin film transistor is grounded, and a critical voltage which is determined according to a gate voltage applied between the drain and the source of the thin film transistor, at a state where any gate voltage has been applied between the gate and the source of the thin film transistor.
US07749776B2

The invention relates to liquid flow assays widely applicable to target analytes, including haptens, which employ a detection zone which is a single combined analyte detection and control zone in a test strip or sheet and two labelled reagents with detectably distinguishable labels, preferably with visually contrasting colored particle labels, whereby both negative and positive samples are distinguishable by detection of different captured label signals in the detection zone.
US07749775B2

Disclosed is a diagnostic testing device that may be used to detect one or more analytes in a sample. The device comprises a receptacle and a holder for a test strip. The test strip may be, for example, a lateral flow test strip. The device and holder permit analysis of a sample, wherein the device is substantially sealed during testing and detection of results. To use, the holder containing a test strip is inserted into the receptacle containing sample to be analyzed. Capillary flow along the test strip is initiated by contact of the sample with the distal end of the test strip. The receptacle is such that results of the assay may be detected visually or using standard instrumentation such as by measuring light absorption or reflectance.
US07749770B2

A method of preparing a fluid sample for use in a fluid analyte monitor, the method including drawing a fluid sample into a capillary channel in a body having a septum piercing projection; piercing a first septum covering a treatment solution chamber with the septum piercing projection, thereby exposing the fluid sample in the capillary channel to the contents of the treatment solution chamber; mixing the fluid sample with the contents of the treatment solution chamber; and piercing a second septum covering the treatment solution channel such that the mixed fluid and treatment solution chamber contents are received into a fluid analyte meter. The method may also include shaking the treatment solution chamber with the capillary channel therein, thereby mixing the fluid sample with the contents of the treatment solution chamber.
US07749761B2

A cell culture apparatus and a method for fabricating the cell culture apparatus are disclosed, the method comprises forming at least one fillister on a biomaterial composite layer by photolithography, wherein the biomaterial composite layer contains two gel materials. One is a bio-compatible hydrogel composition having various weight ratio of: 2-hydroxyethylmathacrylate (HEMA), bisphenolA and glycidyl methacrylate (bis-GMA), triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA), r-methacryloxypropyl trimethoxysilane (MAPTMS), α,α-diethoxyacetophenone (DEAP), and the other one is a photo-sensitive silica gel composition.
US07749758B2

The present invention relates to human, rat and mouse stem cell-derived neuron survival factor polypeptides (SDNSF), a process for producing them, cDNA encoding SDNSF, a vector comprising the cDNA, host cells transformed by the vector, an antibody against SDNSF, pharmaceutical compositions containing SDNSF or the antibody, a method of assaying SDNSF, a reagent for assaying SDNSF, and a screening method using SDNSF. The polypeptides are effective in the survival of nerve cells and, therefore, efficacious in treating injury to the central nerve system caused by brain infarction, brain hemorrhage, spinal cord injury, etc.
US07749757B1

Methods and compositions for stabilizing tissues, cells, and cell components such that desired antigenic sites, light scatter properties and cellular morphology are preserved for a useful period of time. The stabilizing solution includes glycine, lysine and formaldehyde.
US07749755B2

Novel polypeptides, designated Apo-2, which are capable of modulating apoptosis are provided. Compositions including Apo-2 chimeras, nucleic acid encoding Apo-2, and antibodies to Apo-2 are also provided.
US07749751B2

The present invention relates to T-DNA vectors and methods for obtaining transgenic eukaryotes using said vectors. The transgenic eukaryotes are characterized in that they contain the T-DNA but not the illegitimately transferred vector backbone sequence. This is achieved by modifying the T-DNA borders such that they are more efficiently nicked or such that they allow elimination of illegitimately transferred vector backbone sequences by means of recombination.
US07749748B2

A compact sensor for detecting the presence of biological or chemical species includes a microdisk laser and a wavelength shift detector. The microdisk laser is coated with a biological or chemical recognition element, which binds preferentially with a target analyte. Because the recognition element and the target analyte adhere to the sidewall surface of the microdisk laser, they increase the effective diameter of the laser, which shifts the output wavelength by a detectable amount. The presence of a wavelength shift indicates the presence of the target analyte, and the magnitude of the wavelength shift corresponds to the mass load of the target analyte on the sidewall surface of the microdisk laser.
US07749745B2

The invention provides viral vectors (e.g., herpes viral vectors) and methods of using these vectors to treat disease.
US07749744B2

The present invention relates to a hybrid enzyme comprising at least one carbohydrate-binding module amino acid sequence and at least the catalytic module of a glucoamylase amino acid sequence. The invention also relates to the use of the hybrid enzyme in starch processing and especially ethanol production.
US07749737B2

An M times.N matrix microfluidic device for performing a matrix of reactions, the device having a plurality of reaction cells in communication with one of either a sample inlet or a reagent inlet through a via formed within an elastomeric block of the device. Methods provided include a method for forming vias in parallel in an elastomeric layer of an elastomeric block of a microfluidic device, the method comprising using patterned photoresist masks and etching reagents to etch away regions or portions of an elastomeric layer of the elastomeric block.
US07749735B2

The present invention relates to mutant polypeptides of the beta chain of the type I IFN receptor (IFNAR2 mutant) with enhanced affinity for IFNβ as compared to the wild type protein for prolonging the effect of IFNβ in vivo.
US07749718B2

Nucleic acids encoding mammalian, e.g., primate, receptors, purified receptor proteins and fragments thereof. Antibodies, both polyclonal and monoclonal, are also provided. Methods of using the compositions for both diagnostic and therapeutic utilities are described.
US07749715B2

The present invention relates to nucleotide sequences of TCL-1 genes and amino acid sequences of their encoded proteins, as well as derivatives and analogs thereof, and antibodies thereto. The TCL-1 gene sequence is preferentially expressed early in T and B lymphocyte differentiation. The present invention further relates to the use of TCL-1 genes and their encoded proteins as diagnostic and therapeutic reagents for the detection and treatment of disease states associated with chromosomal abnormalities.
US07749713B2

The present invention concerns methods and kits for diagnosing a disease condition characterized by non-physiological levels of hepcidin protein, including prohepcidin and fragments thereof, comprising obtaining a tissue or fluid sample from a subject; contacting the sample with an antibody or fragment thereof that specifically binds to a polypeptide corresponding to the mid-portion or C terminus of a hepcidin protein, and quantifying the hepcidin level using an assay based on binding of the antibody and the polypeptide; wherein the non-physiological level of hepcidin is indicative of the disease condition. The present invention also concerns diagnostic methods and kits for applications in genetic technological approaches, such as for overexpressing or down-regulating hepcidin. The present invention further concerns therapeutic treatment of certain diseases by treatment of subjects with hepcidin and agonists or antagonists of hepcidin.
US07749709B2

Methods are provided for identifying a cell exhibiting unregulated growth associated with methylation-silenced transcription of a suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS)/cytokine-inducible SH2 protein (CIS) family member (SOCS/CIS) gene such as the SOCS-1 gene. In addition, methods of treating a cancer patient, wherein cancer cells in the patient exhibit methylation-silenced transcription of SOCS/CIS gene such as a SOCS-1 gene, are provided, as are reagents for practicing such methods.
US07749706B2

Methods and kits are disclosed for use in the analysis of microsatellite instability in genomic DNA. Methods and kits are also disclosed which can be used to detect microsatellite instability DNA present in biological materials, such as tumors. The methods and kits of the present invention can be used to detect or diagnose diseases associated with microsatellite instability, such as certain types of cancer.
US07749705B2

Apparatus and methods are described for detecting target DNA in a biological sample using capture probes and electrically-assisted hybridization. The reaction cell is formed with an attachment surface of aluminum oxide for better thermal and physical properties, and the aluminum oxide surface is coated with anti-DIG antibody to provide a convenient attachment layer for the capture probes allowing their correct orientation, while the capture probes are formed with a DIG-label so that they attach to the surface of the cell through an anti-DIG/DIG linkage.
US07749701B2

A method for controlling the use of oligonucleotide sequences released from arrays, comprises synthesizing a chemical array of oligonucleotides on a substrate under conditions for producing an array of cleavable oligonucleotides that are blocked from enzymatic reactions after cleavage. Methods may also include receiving a chemical array of cleavable oligonucleotides on a substrate, and cleaving the oligonucleotides from the array, wherein the oligonucleotides are blocked from enzymatic reactions after cleavage. Arrays, populations of oligonucleotides and kits are also provided to facilitate the methods.
US07749695B2

The present invention relates to compositions containing novel proteins and methods of using those compositions for the diagnosis and treatment of immune related diseases.
US07749693B2

An organ perfusion apparatus and method monitor, sustain and/or restore viability of organs and preserve organs for storage and/or transport. Other apparatus include an organ transporter, an organ cassette and an organ diagnostic device. The method includes perfusing the organ at hypothermic and/or normothermic temperatures, preferably after hypothermic organ flushing for organ transport and/or storage. The method can be practiced with prior or subsequent static or perfusion hypothermic exposure of the organ. Organ viability is restored by restoring high energy nucleotide (e.g., ATP) levels by perfusing the organ with a medical fluid, such as an oxygenated cross-linked hemoglobin-based bicarbonate medical fluid, at normothermic temperatures. During the period in which the organ is preserved and/or maintained, various drug research and development may be performed on and/or with the organ. The organ may be perfused with a fluid containing a substance such as a test substance to obtain data regarding the organ, the substance and an interaction of the substance and the organ. The data may then be used to ultimately provide information regarding the drugs efficacy in support of regulatory filings for new drugs.
US07749691B2

A method of manufacturing a photoelectric conversion device. The method includes the steps of arranging a plurality of reticles, on each of which a mask pattern region is formed, in an arrangement direction and using at least two of the plurality of reticles in the method, such that, in at least one of the reticles being used, (i) a center of the at least one reticle, which is aligned with an optical axis of light for exposure, is shifted from (ii) a center of the mask pattern region formed on the at least one reticle, in a direction parallel to the arrangement direction of the plurality of reticles, and performing the exposure of a predetermined region on a wafer using the at least two of the plurality of reticles, in order to manufacture the photoelectric conversion device.
US07749686B2

A method for producing a conductive film, which comprises: exposing and developing a light-sensitive material comprising a support and thereon an emulsion layer containing a silver salt emulsion to form a metallic silver; and then subjecting the light-sensitive material to a smoothing treatment (such as a calender treatment).
US07749685B2

An imaging method is disclosed. An imaging composition is coated on a work piece followed by applying a sufficient amount of energy from a 3-D imaging system to form an image on the coated work piece. The image may be a logo or marker for alignment of parts.
US07749683B2

A composition that is photopolymerizable upon absorption of light and/or heat, the composition including a binder, a polymerizable compound, a sensitizer, and a photoinitiator, characterized in that the composition includes, with respect to its non-volatile compounds, at least about 0.01 wt. % of a polythiol compound, and wherein the composition when coated on a support has a sensitivity of about 150 μJ/cm2 or higher, in combination with a high hardness.
US07749682B2

An alkali-developable black photosensitive resin composition for forming a light-shielding barrier wall which comprises, as indispensable components, (A) a carboxyl group-containing photosensitive prepolymer, (B) a photopolymerization initiator, (C) a black pigment, and (D) light-transmitting fine particles. By the use of this composition, light-shielding barrier walls (11) having sufficient light-shielding properties and a height of not less than 20 μm can be formed by photolithography, without causing undercutting during development. In a preferred embodiment, the black pigment (C) is a metal oxide, preferably iron oxide, and the fine particles (D) are inorganic fine particles having a refractive index of 1.40-1.90, preferably silica.
US07749678B2

A photosensitive composition comprising (A) a resin that is decomposed by the action of an acid to increase solubility in an alkali developing solution, (B) a compound that generates an acid upon irradiation of an actinic ray or radiation, and (C1) a compound having a molecular weight of 1,000 or less and containing an aliphatic ring and an aromatic ring, and a photosensitive composition comprising (A) a resin that is decomposed by the action of an acid to increase solubility in an alkali developing solution, (B) a compound that generates an acid upon irradiation of an actinic ray or radiation, and (C2) a resin containing a hydroxystyrene unit; and a pattern forming method using these photosensitive composition.
US07749674B2

A toner including toner particles including a binder resin, a colorant, and an inorganic particulate material present on a surface of the toner particles. The toner particles have a surface roughness (Ra) of from 1 to 30 nm, a standard deviation of the surface roughness of from 10 to 90 nm and include 1 to 20 convexities per 1 μm, which have a height not less than 10 nm.
US07749672B2

An emulsion aggregation polyester toner including a polyester resin having modified end groups, wherein the polyester resin includes at least one carboxylic end group. A process of making the toner by oxidation of a polyester resin including reacting the polyester with a hypohalite and a phase transfer catalyst results in a polyester resin endcapped with at least one acidic group. Stable xerographic charging in all ambient environments for all colors, and excellent resistivity and cohesion of the toner, may be achieved.
US07749669B2

An electrophotographic toner which achieves superior coloring without exhibiting any difficulty in dispersibility in thermoplastic resin while exhibiting improved characteristics, is disclosed, comprising a thermoplastic resin and a metal chelate dye contained in the thermoplastic resin and represented by the following formula: M(L1)(L2)n(X1)m(X2)1.W1 Image forming method by use of the toner is also disclosed.
US07749667B2

An image forming method is disclosed having a charging step, an exposure step, a developing step and a transfer step. This method uses a toner which includes toner particles containing a binder resin and a colorant, and inorganic fine powder, and uses a photosensitive member which has on its surface depressed portions which are independent of one another. The depressed portions have openings having an average minor-axis diameter Lpc satisfying the relationship of Dg
US07749666B2

A method of using an in-situ aerial image sensor array is disclosed to separate and remove the focal plane variations caused by the image sensor array non-flatness and/or by the exposure tool by collecting sensor image data at various nominal focal planes and by determining best focus at each sampling location by analysis of the through-focus data. In various embodiments, the method provides accurate image data at best focus anywhere in the exposure field, image data covering an exposure-dose based process window area, and a map of effective focal plane distortions. The focus map can be separated into contributions from the exposure tool and contributions due to topography of the image sensor array by suitable calibration or self-calibration procedures. The basic method enables a wide range of applications, including for example qualification testing, process monitoring, and process control by deriving optimum process corrections from analysis of the image sensor data.
US07749653B2

A battery is provided. In the battery including a cathode, an anode having an anode active material layer provided on an anode current collector, said anode active material layer containing a carbon material as an anode active material, and an electrolyte solution, the anode active material layer contains nano-particles of ceramic. The battery limits the precipitation of lithium on the surface of the anode, improves energy density and has an excellent cycle characteristics.
US07749652B2

A lead and a nonaqueous electrolyte battery including the lead that is given a non-chromium surface treatment and have excellent resistance to hydrofluoric acid. The lead includes: (1) a metal lead made of nickel, nickel plated copper, or copper; (2) a composite coating layer that is formed on a portion of the surface of the metal lead that is hermetically attached to the package, the composite coating layer being formed by applying a treatment liquid that contains a salt of zirconium, a salt of titanium, or a salt of molybdenum and a resin component containing polyacrylic acid; and (3) an insulator that is arranged outside the composite coating layer and hermetically attached to the package. The nonaqueous electrolyte battery having the lead connected to positive or negative electrode of the nonaqueous electrolyte battery.
US07749641B2

The present invention provides a new method for improving capacity, average operating voltage and specific energy of a secondary lithium ion cell or battery. This method is achieved by means of properly adjusting the ratio between a positive material and negative material, which is calculated by theoretical specific energy, and properly increasing charge cut-off voltage. The present method can greatly increasing specific energy and average operating voltage of a secondary lithium ion cell without influence on recycle property of the cell. The present invention also provides a secondary lithium ion cell or battery practicing the method, a protecting circuit adapted for the secondary lithium ion cell or battery, a electronic device using said protecting circuit and said secondary lithium ion cell or battery, and a charging device for the secondary lithium ion cell or battery.
US07749638B2

A manufacturing method of a lamination body of an electrolytic body and a particle includes the steps of: a) electrostatically charging an electrostatic carrier configured to carry static electricity at a designated polarity; b) contacting the electrostatically charged electrostatic carrier with dispersion liquid formed by dispersing the particle electrostatically charged at a polarity reversed to the designated polarity into a dispersion medium; and c) transferring the particle adhering to the electrostatic carrier to the electrolytic body made of electrolyte.
US07749635B2

In order to provide a gasket which has a good handling property as a gasket used for a fuel battery or a gasket for an hard disc drive, can be easily integrated with the other end mounting member even in the case that the other end mounting member such as a separator or the like is a material having low strength or a thin plate, and has good mounting workability, a gasket is having a sheet-shaped gasket mounting member provided with a sticking function on one face, and a gasket main body made of a rubber-type elastic member integrated with the sheet-shaped gasket mounting member, and the gasket is mounted to the other end mounting member on the basis of the sticking function of the sheet-shaped gasket mounting member.
US07749622B2

A multilayer film-coated substrate having the stress of the film relaxed by depositing a multilayer film comprising a metal oxide film and a silicon oxide film on a substrate at a high speed by a sputtering method using a conductive sputtering material, and a process for producing a multilayer film-coated substrate having such a low stress, are presented.A multilayer film-coated substrate comprising a substrate and at least a metal oxide film and a silicon oxide film laminated thereon repeatedly at least once, wherein at least one layer of said metal oxide film is a metal oxide film deposited by sputtering by using, as the target material, a metal oxide MOX which is deficient in oxygen than the stoichiometric composition, to have the oxygen deficiency resolved, and the stress of the multilayer film is from −100 MPa to +100 MPa.
US07749620B2

The present invention is to provide an electromagnetic wave shielding material which comprises a transparent substrate and a fine line pattern formed thereon, wherein the fine line pattern comprises a metal plating film using a physically developed metal silver as a catalytic nucleus and a process for preparing an electromagnetic wave shielding material which comprises exposing a light-sensitive material having a physical development nuclei layer and a silver halide emulsion layer on a transparent substrate in this order, precipitating metal silver with an optional fine line pattern onto the physical development nuclei layer by physical development, then, removing a layer provided on the physical development nuclei layer, and subjecting to plating a metal with the use of the physically developed metal silver as a catalytic nucleus.
US07749611B2

In one aspect, a copper foil for lamination to a dielectric substrate includes a layer deposited on a surface of the copper foil. The layer is formed from chromium and zinc ions or oxides and is treated with an aqueous solution containing at least 0.5% silane. In another aspect, a peel strength enhancement coating is disposed between a copper foil laminate and a dielectric substrate. The peel strength enhancement coating comprises a metal and metal oxide mixture containing a metal selected from groups 5B, 6B, and 7B of the periodic table of the elements. The effective thickness of the peel strength enhancement coating is that thickness capable of providing less than or equal to 10% loss of peel strength, when measured in accordance with IPC-TM-650 Method 2.4.8.5 using a ⅛ inch wide test specimen, after being immersed in 4N HCl at about 60° C. for 6 hours.
US07749609B2

A metal plate for producing a flat tube including a metal body having a joint portion, first and second flat wall forming portions connected by the joint portion, reinforcing wall forming portions projecting from the first and second flat wall forming portions and extending in a longitudinal direction of the first and second flat wall forming portions, and side wall forming portions projecting from opposite side edges of the metal body, respectively. The joint portion has a ridge which makes the joint portion thicker than the first and second flat wall forming portions. The ridge, the reinforcing wall forming portions and the side wall forming portions are projecting in a same direction. The metal body bends into a hairpin shape at boundaries formed between the ridge of the joint portion and the first and second flat wall forming portions.
US07749601B2

The invention concerns a flame-resistant spun staple yarns and fabrics and garments comprising these yarns and methods of making the same. The yarns have 50 to 75 parts by weight of a polymeric staple fiber containing a polymer or copolymer derived from a monomer selected from the group consisting of 4,4′diaminodiphenyl sulfone, 3,3′diaminodiphenyl sulfone, and mixtures thereof; 2 to 15 parts by weight of a fiber having low thermal shrinkage; 1 to 5 parts by weight of an antistatic fiber; and the remainder being flame resistant fibers having a limiting oxygen index of 21 or greater, based on 100 total parts by weight of the polymeric fiber, the low thermal shrinkage fiber, the antistatic fiber, and the flame resistant fibers in the yarn.
US07749599B2

Disclosed is a cushioning material for a polishing pad, which hardly suffers swelling deformation caused by water because it is extremely low in water-absorbing characteristics and water-swelling characteristics. The cushioning material for a polishing pad includes a polyurethane foam capable of polishing even a semiconductor wafer having an undulated surface or a wafer having a local step that is formed during circuit forming process so that the undulation or step becomes smaller by uniformly polishing an entire surface of the wafer along the undulation or step. The cushioning material for a polishing pad is characterized by including a polyurethane foam obtained by reacting polyol and polyisocyanate with each other, the polyurethane foam having a contact angle with water of 90° or more. The polyurethane foam is preferably made by using hydrophobic polyol, and preferably has a self-skin layer formed thereon.
US07749594B2

The present invention relates to a cutting tool comprising a substrate and, a wear resistant coating, said wear resistant coating is composed of one or more layers of refractory compounds of which at least one layer consists of a multilayered MX/LX/MX/LX laminar structure where the alternating layers MX and LX are carbides or nitrides with the elements M and L selected from the group consisting of Ti, Nb, Hf, V, Ta, Mo, Zr, Cr, Al, Si or W and mixtures thereof, wherein the sequence of individual layer thicknesses has no repeat period but essentially aperiodic throughout the entire multilayered structure, and where the individual MX and LX layer thickness is larger than 0.1 ran but the sum of any 10 consecutive layers in the structure is smaller than 300 nm, and the total thickness of said multilayered structure is larger than 0.5 μm but smaller than 20 μm, deposited by PVD-technique, where at least one of MX or LX are electrically isolating, and a method of making such a cutting tool.
US07749592B2

A multilayer ceramic substrate includes a plurality of stacked glass ceramic layers and internal conductors. The glass ceramic layers contain at least one diffusion element selected from the group consisting of Ti, Zr and Mn. The internal conductors contain Ag as a conductive material. The multilayer ceramic substrate is produced by the steps of adding at least one diffusion element selected from the group consisting of Ti, Zr and Mn to conductive paste and diffusing the diffusion element in the glass ceramic layers around the conductive paste. As a result, defects otherwise possibly generated around the internal conductors can be eliminated with exactitude.
US07749584B2

In heat-shrinkable polyester films, the content of 1,4-cyclohexane dimethanol is 10 to 50% by mole based on the polyhydric alcohol component and that the heat shrinkage factors of a 10 cm square sample of the films in (A) hot water of 75° C., (B) hot water of 85° C., and (C) hot water of 95° C. are 30 to 40%, 50 to 60%, and 65 to 77%, respectively. The films can be produced by drawing under specified conditions.
US07749579B2

A rolled optical film includes a cellulose ester film which has a width of from 1 m to 3 m and a length of 500 m or more and is shaped in a rolled film. The cellulose ester film includes streaks from 1 line to 20 lines per 10 mm in a lateral direction thereof in which the streaks have a height of from 50 nm to 300 nm, an inclination of from 50 nm/mm to 300 nm/mm and a continuous length of 50 cm or more in a longitudinal direction thereof and the cellulose ester film does no includes a streak which has a height of 300 nm or more, an inclination of 300 nm/mm or more and a continuous length of 50 cm or more in a longitudinal direction thereof.
US07749569B2

Formation of a silicon-modified aluminide coating on the under platform region of a superalloy gas turbine engine blade for improved corrosion and oxidation resistance. The coating is formed from a slurry composition including colloidal silica and aluminum-based powder and is substantially free of hexavalent chromium. The coating provides aluminum and silicon content in the outer 25% of a coating thickness of at least about 20% by weight aluminum and about 3% by weight silicon.
US07749568B2

A refractory metal composite article includes a refractory metal ceramic section and a refractory metal ceramic coating that together form a porous matrix. A solid filler is within pores of the porous matrix to, for example, reduce a porosity of the refractory metal composite article.
US07749547B2

A dietary supplement with Creatine, Taurine and a source of Phosphate. The dietary supplement may further include one or more of Double Fermented Triticum aestivum, Dextrose, Isomalt, Trehalose, D-Mannose, Mulberry extract, Enicostemma littorale Blume, Scoparia dulcis, Tarragon extract, Andrographis paniculata, Chromium, Glutamine and Alpha Lipoic Acid. Administered in the morning or following exercise, the dietary supplement increases Creatine uptake and retention in skeletal muscle, muscle mass and strength, exercise capacity and aids in recovery following exercise as well as supporting the immune system during periods of intense training.
US07749540B2

Particle-forming compositions of modafinil compounds, and aqueous compositions of particles, wherein the particles comprise a modafinil compound, are disclosed, along with methods of their preparation, and their use in the treatment of diseases.
US07749534B2

The invention relates to a pharmaceutical agent, particularly a chemotherapeutical agent, comprising cis-diammoniumdichloro-trans-dihydroxoplatinum(IV) or salts and/or derivatives thereof in the form of capsules, tablets, creams, ointments and infusion solutions, and to the production of said pharmaceutical agent; the invention also relates to the use of such pharmaceutical agents in the treatment of tumor diseases.
US07749533B2

A fast-melting pharmaceutical tablet comprises a porous, plastic substance, a water penetration enhancer and a binder. One or more drugs can be incorporated into the formulation at different stages of the process so as to afford a pharmaceutically active tablet. Methods of making the pharmaceutical tablet entail combining the porous, plastic material, the water penetration enhancing agent, and the binder so as to form highly plastic granules, which are compressed into tablets. The resulting tablets dissolve rapidly in the mouth and have good hardness with low brittleness. The tablets are particularly valuable to those who have difficulty swallowing conventional pills.
US07749526B2

Compounds of formula (I) are described for deterring vermin, wherein R is unbranched or branched C1-C15 alkyl, which is unsubstituted or substituted by halogen, cyano or nitro; R1 and R2 are unbranched or branched C1-C12 alkyl, preferably C1-C6 alkyl, which is unsubstituted or substituted by halogen, cyano or nitro; and X and Y, independently of one another, are a straightchain or branched alkylene bridge with 1 to 20 carbon atoms, preferably an alkylene bridge with 1 to 3 carbon atoms, which is unsubstituted or substituted by halogen, cyano or nitro. Furthermore, an essentially non-therapeutical process for deterring vermin is described, which is based on the usage of these compounds, as well as verminrepellent compositions containing these compounds as the active ingredient, and finally the use of these compounds for producing vermin-deterring compositions and their usage in deterring vermin from animals, humans and objects. New compounds within the scope of formula (I) are also described.
US07749521B2

The invention describes a new class of crystalline silica material having two levels or porosity and structural order. At the first level, building units are nanoslabs of uniform size having zeolite framework. At the second structural level, nanoslabs are assembled, e.g. linked through their corners, edges or faces following patterns imposed by interaction with cationic surfactant or triblock copolymer molecules. After evacuation of these molecules, microporosity is obtained inside the nanoslabs, and a precise mesoporosity between the nanoslabs depending on the tiling pattern of the zeolite nanoslabs, as evidenced by X-ray diffraction. These materials are useful for the fixation of biologically active species, such as poorly soluble drugs.
US07749514B2

Compositions comprising activatable recombinant neurotoxins and polypeptides derived therefrom. The invention also comprises nucleic acids encoding such polypeptides, and methods of making such polypeptides and nucleic acids.
US07749508B2

The present invention provides an antioxidant and a whitening agent having high safety, and a external preparation for skin using the same. The antioxidant and whitening agent comprise, as an effective component, one or more extracts from Basidiomycetes selected from the group consisting of Pleurotus abalonus, Pholiota squarrosa, Onnia orientalis, Astraeus hygrometricus and Pleurotus nebrodensis . These extracts have a free radical capturing ability and are useful for suppressing skin oxidation and for preventing and improving skin aging. In addition, the extracts have a tyrosinase activity inhibiting action and can suppress the melanin generation. Since the fruit bodies of these Basidiomycetes have been used for edible purpose and have high safety, they can be used preferably for an external preparation for skin.
US07749507B2

A fusion protein, derived from P. falciparum Glutamate-rich protein (GLURP) genetically coupled to P. falciparum Merozoite surface protein 3 (MSP3) was produced in Lactococcus lactis as a secreted recombinant GLURP-MSP3 hybrid protein and experiments showed that the GLURP-part of the hybrid increased the overall antibody response. Immunizations with the hybrid protein consistently generated a stronger antibody response against the individual GLURP and MSP3 domains than a mixture of the two recombinant molecules injected at one site or the individual recombinant molecules injected simultaneously at two different sites. The difference was most pronounced for the MSP3-specific antibody response suggesting that T cell epitopes located in the GLURP RO-region provide help for B-cell epitopes in the MSP3 region. Moreover, when the animals were injected with a mixture of GLURP and MSP3, individual mice tended to mount a predominant antibody response against either molecule: in some animals GLURP was immunodominant whereas in other animals MSP3 was the dominant immunogen. Additionally, the hybrid was also more antigenic than the individual recombinant proteins since the ELISA-titer of naturally occurring IgG antibodies, in clinically immune African adults, against the hybrid protein was higher than the titers against the individual recombinant proteins. The hybrid protein was also demonstrated to be a potential protective antigen as mouse anti-GLURP-MSP3 IgG antibodies were able to inhibit parasite-growth in vitro in a monocyte-dependent manner.
US07749505B2

Compositions and methods for the therapy and diagnosis of cancer, particularly lung cancer, are disclosed. Illustrative compositions comprise one or more lung tumor polypeptides, immunogenic portions thereof, polynucleotides that encode such polypeptides, antigen presenting cell that expresses such polypeptides, and T cells that are specific for cells expressing such polypeptides. The disclosed compositions are useful, for example, in the diagnosis, prevention and/or treatment of diseases, particularly lung cancer.
US07749499B2

The identification of a highly conserved, immunologically accessible antigen at the surface of Neisseria facilitates treatment, prophylaxis, and diagnosis of Neisseria diseases. This antigen is highly resistant to Proteinase K and has an apparent molecular weight of 22 kDa on SDS-PAGE. Specific polynucleotides encoding proteins of this class have been isolated from three Neisseria meningitidis strains and from one Neisseria gonorrhoeae strain. These polynucleotides have been sequenced, and the corresponding full-length amino acid sequences of the encoded polypeptides have been deduced. Recombinant DNA methods for the production of the Neisseria surface protein, and antibodies that bind to this protein are also disclosed.
US07749492B2

The invention relates to Adeno-associated virus vectors. In particular, it relates to Adeno-associated virus vectors with modified capsid proteins and materials and methods for their preparation and use.
US07749489B2

A topical administration carrier composition including water, glycerin and polysorbate, suitable for use in formulations with active ingredient compositions containing active ingredients such as minoxidil that are susceptible to systemic penetration, and solvents that are susceptible to evaporative loss, when the active ingredient composition is topically applied to the body. The carrier formulation retards the evaporative losses of the solvent component(s) and systemic migration losses of the active ingredient composition, to provide sustained topical action, in relation to formulations lacking the carrier composition of the invention.
US07749480B2

A method for producing cadmium telluride from elemental cadmium and elemental tellurium is disclosed. For example, the method disclosed can be used for producing multi-kilogram batches of cadmium telluride in a few hours.
US07749472B2

The present invention provides for novel poisoning-resistant catalysts used for automobile exhaust gas treatment systems. To alleviate the detrimental affects of engine oil and/or fuel additive poisoning the present invention provides for an overcoat layer comprising a porous refractory oxide and one or more base metal oxides, which is coated over one or more precious metal containing washcoat layers. The overcoat of the present invention prevents phosphorous as well as other poisoning deposits, from fouling and/or negatively interacting with the underlying precious metal containing washcoats. In an alternative embodiment, the present invention provides for the coating of the upstream end of a catalytic member by the overcoat layer, thereby creating an upstream poison capture zone.
US07749470B2

A method for processing waste copper liquid produces high copper content sludge, mainly by recycling a low copper content waste liquid from production of PCB in order to discharge a comparatively higher copper content sludge. First, the waste liquid is classified into an acidic low concentration copper waste liquid, an acidic high concentration copper waste liquid, and an oxidized acidic high concentration copper waste liquid. Then mix with a strong alkali to react and form a cupric oxide sludge that then undergoes dehydration and baking by applicable equipment to remove water and get a higher copper content sludge. It is therefore unnecessary to add other conversion agents to convert copper hydroxide into cupric oxide, thereby turning the valueless low copper content sludge from a waste liquid into a valuable recyclable high copper content sludge.
US07749460B2

An apparatus for manufacturing carbon nanotubes includes: a reaction chamber having an inlet at a bottom and an opposite outlet at a top thereof, and a substrate region configured for accommodating a substrate for growing carbon nanotubes thereon; an electric field generating device configured for generating an electric field around the substrate region, the electric field being substantially perpendicular to the substrate; and a magnetic field generating device configured for generating a magnetic field around the substrate region, the magnetic field being substantially perpendicular to the substrate.
US07749456B2

This invention provides a stepped heating cycle for the pre-treatment of phenolic microballoons prior to carbonization thereof, wherein the heating cycle comprises the steps of sequentially: gradually elevating the temperature of the microballoons to a temperature in the range 100° C.-170° C.; holding the microballoons at the elevated temperature for 1-24 hours; and gradually cooling the microballoons. This invention also provides a heat-dissipation reactor (11, 21, 31) which comprises a walled reaction chamber having a bottom and no top, the reaction chamber being fitted with high thermal conductivity inserts. When used in accordance with this invention (61), the volume within the walls of the reaction chamber is charged with phenolic resin microballoons. In a preferred embodiment, the reaction chamber (11, 21) is subdivided into a plurality of subchambers by a vertical grid of aluminum plates (19, 29). In this embodiment, about half or more of the wall area of each subchamber comprises aluminum and a top edge (17) of the aluminum wall material communicates with atmosphere above the reaction chamber.
US07749447B1

Femtoliter to milliliter volumes of one or a plurality of different liquids are accurately transported, dispensed and/or treated where the fluids are energized electrokinetically or in a hybrid mode where auxiliary energy sources including but not limited to pneumatic, piezoelectric; peristaltic; ultrasonic; thermal; gravitational, acoustic are employed concurrently or sequentially to transport liquids for various purposes from diverse devices. Liquids in nested Gaussian surfaces or common liquid handling devices (e.g., syringes) can be energized by electric induction or conduction of lumen or targets or both and are optionally concurrently or sequentially combined with non electrical energy to effect highly accurate volumetric and spatial liquid transport with active or passive flight direction yielding non touch or touch liquid sample placement, parallel dispensing, with or without filtration, SPE, LC, or other treatment technologies for scientific instrument introduction (e.g., MALDI/ESI), drug delivery, diagnostics, manufacturing of products, product tagging, sample preparation or related applications.
US07749439B2

A test apparatus is disclosed for measuring a component. The test apparatus maintains the amount of a specimen to be used for a reaction with a reagent at a constant value by allowing all of a fluid specimen to be measured and thus improves the accuracy and reproducibility of a test. The test apparatus includes a solution storage unit capable of holding a solution beforehand or allowing a solution to be filled therein, a capillary having a first end part and a second end part for storing the fluid specimen, and a test piece for measuring the component to be measured in the specimen. The solution storage unit and the second end part of the capillary are communicable with each other, and the first end part of the capillary is placed so as to be in contact with the test piece.
US07749438B2

Periodic mesoporous organosilicas (PMO) which incorporate an optically active molecule into the material for use as an optical indicator of target binding. This material combines the stability, selectivity, and high density of binding sites characteristic of the PMO with the sensitivity and selectivity of the optically active molecule. The material undergoes a change when exposed to a sample containing a target molecule. The change can be observed by visual inspection or through the use of fluorescence spectra.
US07749436B2

As previous processing of measurement in which gas to be measured containing, as gas components, carbon dioxide 13CO2 and carbon dioxide 12CO2, is introduced into a cell, and in which the intensities of transmitted lights having wavelengths suitable for measurement of the respective gas components, are measured and then data-processed to measure the concentrations of the gas components, the air having a predetermined volume Va is sucked by a gas injection device 21, a gas exhaust valve V6 of a cell 11 is closed and the air stored in the gas injection device 21 is transferred to the cell 11 filled with the air at an atmospheric pressure, thereby to pressurize the cell inside. The pressure thus pressurized is measured as P. The cell volume Vc is subtracted from the product obtained by multiplying the sum. V0 of the volume Va and Vc the cell volume Vc, by the ratio P0/P in which P0 is the target pressure of the gas to be measured at which a calibration curve has been prepared for an isotope gas analysis and measurement, thus determining the one-time gas injection amount of the gas injection device 21. Thus, measured concentration variations based on changes in atmospheric pressure can be corrected.
US07749435B2

An oxygenator which helps avoid bubbles in the blood from being discharged through the blood outlet port of the oxygenator includes a housing, a hollow fiber membrane bundle in the housing and formed by a multiplicity of hollow fiber membranes serving for gas exchange, gas-inlet and gas-outlet ports communicating with gas passages of the hollow fiber membranes, and a blood-inlet and blood-outlet ports. A filter member is provided on a side closer to the blood outlet port of the hollow fiber membrane bundle and serves to catch bubbles in blood. The blood outlet port projects from the housing and a passage enlargement is provided in a vicinity of the end of the blood outlet port closer to the housing and having an increased passage cross-sectional area. The blood passed the filter member is allowed to reach the blood outlet port by being decelerated in the passage enlargement.
US07749423B2

A method of producing an orthotic brace or prosthetic device comprising the steps of creating an anatomical mold or cast of that portion of the patient's anatomy upon which the orthotic brace or prosthetic device is to be applied, applying at least one layer of epoxy resin over at least a portion of the anatomical mold, applying at least one layer of carbon graphite fabric on at least a portion of the layer of epoxy resin, placing the anatomical mold with the epoxy resin and carbon graphite fabric in an enclosure having an interior, heating the interior of the enclosure to melt the epoxy resin and reducing the pressure in the interior of the enclosure causing the melted epoxy resin to impregnate the carbon graphite fabric, and allowing the melted epoxy resin to harden in the carbon graphite fabric forming the orthotic brace or prosthetic device.
US07749421B2

Methods and apparatus are provided for making a rotor blade spar from composite material wherein a multi-component mandrel is used to form the composite spar. The mandrel is made using a number of components, which are assembled to provide a structure that is sufficiently strong to maintain the spar shape during pre-cure lay up, compaction and curing of the composite material. The multiple components used to form the mandrel can be separated from each other and easily removed from the spar either before or after curing of the composite material. The mandrel components can then be re-assembled and re-used to form additional composite spars.
US07749419B2

An injection-molding method including preparing a first die, a second die and a third die, sandwiching a separator proper with the first die and the second die, molding a front side molded layer by injecting silicone rubber into the front side cavity through a gate, replacing the second die with a third die while the front side molded layer is still soft, and molding a rear side molded layer by piercing the front side molded layer with an injection pressure injecting the silicone rubber through the gate and filling a rear side cavity with silicone rubber through the through hole.
US07749417B2

The invention relates to a method and a device for producing small, thin sheets from an active-ingredient film (2), in which the latter is produced by casting the film material onto a substrate material or by coating a substrate material, storing it with or without substrate material on a reel, pulling it off the reel and cutting it. It achieves the object of designing a method of this type in such a way that with this method small sheets can be produced as exactly as possible in predetermined sizes. To do this, the active-ingredient film (2) is pulled off automatically, is separated from a substrate material which, if present, and in tensioned form, is fed to a cutting station and is cut, in the feed direction, into long, narrow strips (7) of predeterminable width, and the long strips (7) are brought together in the feed direction and together are fed by a further feed device (10) to a transverse cutter (11), which cuts through the combined long strips (7) at predetermined intervals.
US07749415B2

The invention relates to a hand access laparoscopy device having a gelcap, a retainer, a sleeve and a retention ring. The gelcap includes gel that is bonded to a cap. The cap includes an inner cylindrical wall to which the gel in bonded, thereby providing a sealing area between the device and the wound in a body wall. By securing the gel to the inner cylindrical wall, the thickness of the gel and corresponding cap is minimized along with the overall footprint of the device. With the gel thickness reduced and able to be substantially flush, the “doming” phenomenon produced by insufflation of a patient's abdomen is reduced.
US07749409B2

The present invention relates to fatliquoring agents for leathers, skins or hides, which contain neutral halogen-free organic phosphorus compounds, and the use of such fatliquoring agents for the flame-retardant treatment of leather and a process for fatliquoring in the production of flame-retardant leather, skin or hides.
US07749404B2

The present invention relates to fluorescent diketopyrrolopyrroles (“DPPs”) of the formula A1 and A2 independently from each other stand for characterized in that that at least two adjacent substituents R5 to R11 form an aromatic or aliphatic fused ring system, or at least one substituent R5 to R11 is cycloalkyl, aralkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, alkynyl, a hydroxyl group, a mercapto group, alkylthio, an aryl thioether group, a heterocyclic group, halogen, haloalkyl, haloalkenyl, haloalkynyl, a cyano group, an aldehyde group, a carbonyl group, a carboxyl group, an ester group, a carbamoyl group, a nitro group, a silyl group, a siloxanyl group, a substituted or unsubstituted vinyl, arylamino or diarylamino group; a process for their preparation and their use for the preparation of inks, colorants, pigmented plastics for coatings, non-impact-printing material, color filters, cosmetics, or for the preparation of polymeric ink particles, toners, dye lasers and electroluminescent devices. The fluorescent diketopyrrolopyrroles (“DPPs”) of the formula I exhibit a high lightfastness, a high heat stability, especially in plastics. A luminescent device comprising a DPP compound of formula I is high in the efficiency of electrical energy utilisation, high in luminance and high in colour purity.
US07749401B2

Self-steaming benefit compositions for treating fabrics are described. The present invention relates to compositions which are both self-steaming and include one or more benefit agents to provide benefits to fabrics. The present invention also relates to a method for treating fabrics utilizing the self-steaming benefit compositions of the present invention.
US07749395B2

An apparatus removes liquid from a liquid and solids mixture. The apparatus may include a bowl-shaped, rigid container having an upper portion, a lower portion, and a sidewall forming a chamber for receiving the liquid and solids mixture. The container includes a plurality of conduits extending radially outwardly along an inner portion of the sidewall. A filter separates the conduits from the liquid solids mixture in the chamber. Means is also provided for reducing pressure in the chamber, which causes at least liquid to be drawn from the mixture through the filter and conduits. Related systems and methods may be follow from use of the apparatus.
US07749392B2

A process of dewatering an aqueous suspension employing a flocculating system comprising treating the suspension with a flocculating amount of a first flocculant and a dewatering amount of a second flocculant, and subjecting the suspension to mechanical dewatering to form a cake, wherein the first flocculant brings about flocculation and assists thickening of the suspension and the second flocculant further dewaters the suspension, characterized in that the second flocculant is a water-soluble or water swellable polymer that is mixed into the suspension in the form of aqueous composition comprising dissolved or hydrated polymer having a Brookfield viscosity of above 30,000 cps (measured at 20° C.).
US07749385B2

The invention provides porous matrices that comprise one or more surfactants that can be used in non-aqueous environments.
US07749377B2

A process for denitrogenating diesel fuel includes contacting diesel fuel containing one or more nitrogen compounds with an acid ionic liquid in an extraction zone to selectively remove the nitrogen compound(s) and produce a denitrogenated diesel fuel effluent containing denitrogenated diesel fuel and acid ionic liquid containing nitrogen species; and separating denitrogenated diesel fuel from the denitrogenated diesel fuel effluent.
US07749375B2

In one aspect, a hydrodesulfurization process is provided that selectively desulfurizes a hydrocarbon stream with minimal olefin saturation and minimal recombination of sulfur into mercaptans. In another aspect, the process includes a multi-stage reaction zone including at least first and second serial hydrodesulfurization reaction zones that sequentially remove sulfur from a hydrocarbon stream. In yet another aspect, the process is particularly suited to selectively desulfurize an olefinic naphtha hydrocarbon stream, such as FCC naphtha, steam cracked naphtha, coker naphtha, or other gasoline boiling hydrocarbon streams.
US07749371B2

Methods and apparatus for electrochemically determining an analyte concentration value in a physiological sample are disclosed. The methods include using a test strip in which two time-current transients are measured by a meter electrically connected to an electrochemical test strip. Integrative current values are derived from the time-current transients and used in the calculation of analyte concentration.
US07749368B2

Disclosed are methods for coating a metal substrate with a yttrium-containing coating, including ferrous substrates, such as cold rolled steel and electrogalvanized steel. Also disclosed are coated substrates produced thereby.
US07749367B2

In the present vertical slab-gel electrophoresis instrument, all the vertical slab gel cassettes comprise un-notched rectangular sidewalls and flanged spacer strips, but still can form a U-notched upper opening with an even rim for each cassette; one type of cassette can undergo gel casting with an electrophoresis cell, while another two types of cassettes can be used to form a multiple-cassette electrophoresis cell. The present invention can also incorporate a swing-frame chosen for urging a cassette to join an upper buffer chamber, provides an improved cooling device such that there is no need for the use of exogenous coolant, and also provides simple methods to enable cassettes to be tightly enclosed within membrane pouches for gel casting.
US07749357B2

A molded sheet containing at least an oxidizable metal, a moisture retaining agent, and a fibrous material and having a content of components other than the fibrous material of 50% by weight or higher. The sheet has a thickness of 0.08 to 1.2 mm and a breaking length of 100 to 4000 m.
US07749351B2

There is disclosed a method of producing a solar cell module comprising the steps of: mounting a body to be laminated onto a tabular member, carrying in the body to be laminated along with the tabular member onto a heated mounting board; heat-bonding the body to be laminated by pressing with an expanding unit; carrying out the body to be laminated along with the tabular member from the mounting board after parting the expanding unit from the body to be laminated; and separating the body to be laminated from the tabular member. By using the method, a temperature of the body to be laminated does not increase rapidly and a foaming phenomenon is suppressed, thereby allowing manufacturing of the solar cell module with a high yield.
US07749350B2

There are disclosed methods of making RFID transponder webs and intermediate webs such as RFID strap webs and antenna webs, as well as such webs per se.
US07749342B2

A mechanical part presents a main direction along which there extends a central zone forming a core and a peripheral zone forming a casing that surrounds the core. The core and the casing present a metallurgical bond between each other. The core is made of a first material presenting at least a metal matrix, and the casing is made of a second material presenting at least a metal matrix. The metal matrices of the first and second materials are based on the same metal, and at least one of the first and second materials is made of a metal matrix composite containing reinforcing elements dispersed in the metal matrix. The mechanical part can be used as a blade for a fan or a low pressure compressor.
US07749341B2

A composition of the invention is a high temperature shape memory alloy having high work output, and is made from (Ni+Pt+Y)xTi(100-x), wherein x is present in a total amount of 49-55 atomic %, Pt is present in a total amount of 10-30 atomic %, Y is one or more of Au, Pd, and Cu and is present in a total amount of 0 to 10 atomic %. The alloy has a matrix phase wherein the total concentration of Ni, Pt, and the one or more of Pd, Au, and Cu is greater than 50 atomic %.
US07749338B2

The present invention provides high burring, high strength steel sheet excellent in softening resistance of the weld heat affected zone and a method of production of the same, that is, high burring, high strength steel sheet excellent in softening resistance of the weld heat affected zone containing, by wt %, C: 0.01 to 0.1%, Si: 0.01 to 2%, Mn: 0.05 to 3%, P≦0.1%, S≦0.03%, Al: 0.005 to 1%, N: 0.0005 to 0.005%, and Ti: 0.05 to 0.5% and further containing C, S, N, Ti, Cr, and Mo in ranges satisfying 0%
US07749335B2

A drawer-type dishwasher includes a tub having front, rear, bottom and opposing side walls that collectively define a washing chamber and a lid shiftably mounted relative to the tub for selectively closing the washing chamber. A dispenser is mounted to one of the front, rear and opposing side walls and includes a detergent storage portion that is selectively exposed to release detergent into the washing chamber. The lid includes a dispenser rinse system having an inlet portion and an outlet portion, with the outlet portion guiding a flow of water from the lid onto the dispenser to wash out the detergent storage portion and fill the washing chamber. The outlet portion is preferably provided with a shaped contour and a wall that ensures that the all detergent is washed out from the dispenser.
US07749330B2

A method and apparatus provide for automatically cleaning and decontaminating medical instruments. The method comprising the steps of: a) placing the medical instruments into a container after their use in a medical procedure; b) closing the container to seal the instruments inside whereby to prevent personnel contact with the instruments and any contaminants which might be thereon; c) inserting the sealed container into a washer/decontaminator and sealing the washer/decontaminator; d) the washer/decontaminator automatically opening the container and applying a washing fluid thereto to wash the instruments within the container; and e) the washer/decontaminator automatically applying a disinfectant to the container to disinfect the instruments whereby to allow safe handling thereof by personnel.
US07749326B2

Provided is a chemical vapor deposition apparatus including a reaction chamber; a susceptor that is provided in the reaction chamber and has a plurality of wafers mounted thereon; a rotation driving unit that rotates the susceptor; a gas inlet that is provided in the reaction chamber and introduces reaction gas into the reaction chamber from the outside of the reaction chamber; a gas outlet that is provided in the reaction chamber and discharges the reaction gas, of which the reaction is finished, from the inside of the reaction chamber along the rotation-axis direction of the susceptor; and a variable gas-flow adjusting unit that is provided between the gas inlet and the gas outlet and is formed by superimposing a plurality of gas jetting plates having a plurality of holes.
US07749316B2

The present invention relates to a water dispersion for ink-jet printing, including a colorant, particles (A) (except for pigments) having a refractive index of 1.0 to 2.2, and a nonionic organic compound containing a saturated or unsaturated hydrocarbon group having 8 to 30 carbon atoms, and exhibiting a solubility of 1 g or less in 100 g of water as measured at 25° C., as well as a water based ink containing the water dispersion. There are provided a water-based ink for ink-jet printing which can exhibit a high optical density upon one-pass printing on plain papers and, therefore, is suitable for high-speed printing, as well as a water dispersion used in the water-based ink.
US07749315B2

Disclosed is a phase change ink composition comprising a phase change ink carrier and a compound of the formula and dimers thereof, wherein R, R2, X and Z are as described herein.
US07749306B2

A method of restarting a TSA apparatus includes, in the case where the TSA apparatus was stopped when or after when a temperature of a purge gas which flows out from a first adsorption column (5a) during a regeneration process became a peak temperature, in the first adsorption column (5a), closing an entrance valve, an exit valve, and an atmosphere-releasing valve; in a second adsorption column (5b) during an adsorption process, closing an entrance valve and an exit valve and opening an atmosphere-releasing valve so as to release a gas in the opposite direction to feed air flow, followed by closing the atmosphere-releasing valve; pressurizing, just before a restart, the second adsorption column (5b) with feed air to a pressure necessary for the adsorption process; and performing, after the restart, the regeneration process and the adsorption process continuously from the time point of stopping the TSA apparatus.
US07749303B2

A method is provided for indicating the useful service life of a gas filtration and purification system comprising steps of embedding two or more mass-responsive electronic sensors (e.g., surface acoustic wave devices) in a sorbent bed of a filtration cartridge, wherein the mass-responsive electronic sensors are coated with a non-conductive absorptive organic polymer; passing a gas containing a volatile chemical of interest through the filtration cartridge and in contact with the two mass-responsive electronic sensors; and measuring a difference in an electronic property between the two mass-responsive electronic sensors. In such a manner, the two mass-responsive electronic sensors act as internal references with respect to each other, thereby eliminating variations in temperature, interferents, pressure, and the like. When the volatile compound is no longer retained by the sorbent bed, a difference electronic properties of the mass-responsive sensors indicates that the filtration cartridge should be replaced.
US07749301B2

The process for converting a copper sulphide matte to blister copper, is achieved by adding the copper sulphide matte and flux to a suitable agitated slag phase; and injecting, from a discharge tip at the lower end of a top-submerged lance, an oxidizing gas suitable for reacting with the matte to produce blister copper which forms or adds to a continuous blister copper phase below the slag phase. The lance tip is located within the slag phase at a depth enabling the injected gas to agitate the slag phase, and to react with copper sulphide matte dispersed therein, while precluding a substantial proportion of the gas from contacting the continuous blister copper phase.
US07749293B2

A surface cleaning apparatus comprises a dirt inlet, a handle, at least a first cleaning stage comprising a plurality of cyclones in parallel and a plurality of dirt collection chambers that are emptied concurrently wherein the plurality of cyclones and the plurality of dirt collection chambers are removable as a unit from the surface cleaning apparatus, and an air flow motor.
US07749286B2

A composition for dyeing keratin fibers that contains 0.1 to 30 percent of at least one substantially pure plant dye material obtained using solvent or supercritical CO2 extraction, combined with 0.01 to 5 percent of active metal in a metal or mineral salt capable of acting as a mordant as a two-part hair color system.
US07749285B2

A process for coloring and permanently shaping keratin fibers especially human hair comprising applying to the human hair: (a) an aqueous coloring composition based on at least one oxidative dye precursor and optionally at least one coupling substance but not comprising any direct dye is mixed with a composition comprising at least one oxidizing agent and applied onto hair and rinsed off from hair with water after processing 5 to 45 min at a temperature of 20 to 45° C. and towel dried, (b) placing the towel dried hair on curlers, (c) applying an aqueous composition comprising at least one reducing agent and rinsed off from hair with water after a processing time of 2 to 30 min at ambient temperature and towel dried, (d) applying a composition comprising at least one oxidizing agent and processed for 2 to 15 min and optionally rinsed off from hair with water and optionally towel dried, and (e) applying an aqueous oxidative coloring composition based on at least one oxidative dye precursor and optionally at least one coupling substance is mixed with a composition comprising at least one oxidizing agent and rinsed off from hair with water after processing 5 to 45 min at a temperature of 20 to 45° C., towel dried and dried with a dryer or left to dry in the air.
US07749280B2

A urethral prosthesis with prostatic and bulbar segments connected by two types of ties allows the prosthesis to assume at least two configurations different with inter-segmental distances adapted to situations where the patient either has or does not have normal control of the external sphincter. This is particularly useful for a patient undergoing an anesthetic procedure that affects the external sphincter muscles. When the muscles are anesthetized, the prosthesis may provide constant urine voiding, and when the anesthetic effects wear off, the prosthesis may assume a different configuration to allow the sphincter to reassert control over urinary voiding.
US07749276B2

A surgical kit includes an orthopaedic implant, an orthropaedic trial and a bone protector. All three components have bone-contacting surfaces sized and shaped to be placed against a resected bone surface. The orthopaedic implant and trial are thicker than the bone protector. The bone protector has a flat bearing surface while the implant and trial have curved articulating surfaces. In use, the bone protector is temporarily mounted on the resected bone surface to cover and protect the resected bone surface while other bones of the joint are resected. A retractor can be placed against the bone protector and used as a lever to move other bones of the joint for greater access during surgery. The bone protector serves as the fulcrum of the lever and protects the resected bone from damage. The kit, bone protector and method should be useful in minimally invasive total joint arthroplasty.
US07749269B2

Embodiments of the invention include devices and methods for implanting a vertebral body spacer. A lateral surgical approach is contemplated with some disclosed procedures. Instruments of some embodiments are insertable into a disc space to achieve distraction, to determine a desired disc space height, and to select a corresponding implant.
US07749264B2

Medical devices, such as endoprostheses, and methods of making the devices are disclosed. In some embodiments, an endoprosthesis includes a first portion having a first width, and a second portion having a second width different than the first width, wherein the first and second portions have different grain sizes.
US07749262B2

An intraluminal stent, an intraluminal stent delivery system, and a method of treating a vascular condition. The stent includes a framework with a plurality of flap portions projecting substantially beyond a central core region. The flap portions are movable from a compressed position and an extended position when the stent is deployed. The system includes a catheter and the intraluminal stent. The method includes positioning an intraluminal stent within a vessel. A plurality of flap portions of the stent is extended from a compressed position into contact with the vessel.
US07749260B2

Devices and methods for the treatment of skin conditions and lesions are disclosed herein. One aspect of the invention is a compact hand held device that can be safely used by those suffering from skin conditions, such as acne, warts, cold blisters, blemished skin, or fine wrinkles. The devices described herein employ the application of heat for the treatment of skin conditions and lesions. Typically, the peak temperatures employed are about 70° C. to about 400° C. by the devices, are achieved in less than about 1 second, and maintained for less than about 1 second. In some embodiments, the skin surface is heated with heat pulses. Thermal conduction transfers heat from the device to the skin and causes a biological response that accelerates acne clearing, treats blemished skin, itching, or fine wrinkles. The total heat transferred is low enough to prevent burns.
US07749258B2

A bone anchoring device includes a receiving part for receiving a rod, the receiving part has a first bore coaxial with a longitudinal axis and a second bore, and an anchoring element having a first end for insertion into the bone and a second end positionable within a second bore, the anchoring element being movable relative to the receiving part in limited angular range about the longitudinal axis, the angles lying in a single plane. The bone anchoring device further includes a fixation element cooperating with the receiving part to lock the anchoring element relative to the receiving part. The anchoring element is pivotable relative to the receiving part around one rotational axis transverse to the longitudinal axis.
US07749254B2

A slit valve (10) for use with an inflatable medical device having a flange surface (12) with an opening therein. The slit valve (10) has a valve body (14) connected to the flange surface (12) and a chamber formed in the valve body (14) for accepting an inflation tube (34) inserted through the opening in the flange surface (12). The slit valve (10) has a concave section at one or both ends, which are connected by a slit (24) formed in the valve body (14).
US07749253B2

A spine distraction implant alleviates pain associated with spinal stenosis and facet arthropathy by expanding the volume in the spine canal and/or neural foramen. The implant provides a spinal extension stop while allowing freedom of spinal flexion.
US07749247B2

A method and apparatus for sealing a puncture or incision formed percutaneously in a tissue with an anchor, a sealing plug and a filament or other mechanism connecting the anchor and sealing plug. The method and apparatus provide for automatic tamping and/or cinching of the sealing plug when the apparatus is withdrawn from the puncture site. The automatic tamping and/or cinching is facilitated by a coil transducing a motive force generated by the withdrawal of the apparatus into a tamping and/or cinching force.
US07749233B2

The present invention is a one or two-part sleeve assembly for use during minimally invasive spinal stabilization surgery. An outer sleeve is designed to slide over the coupling between a polyaxial screw and an inner sleeve so as to prevent the screw from becoming disengaged from the inner sleeve during surgery. The outer sleeve includes a lower generally cylindrical wall having a slot, and an upper extension having an outwardly protruding manipulation handle attached to it. The slot in the lower section extends the entire length of the cylindrical wall, giving it a generally “C” shaped cross section. This slot corresponds with a similar slot on the inner sleeve for receiving a stabilizing rod to be attached to the polyaxial screw during surgery. The interior diameter of the lower section is approximately the same as the outer diameter of the inner sleeve, so that the outer sleeve may slide snugly over the inner sleeve and the screw coupling. In addition, the edges of the cylindrical wall adjacent to the longitudinal slot are flattened so as to conform to the shape of the inner sleeve and the head portion of the polyaxial screw where it couples with the inner sleeve.
US07749231B2

Instruments and techniques separate or spread adjacent bony structures by inserting a distal spreader assembly into the space between the adjacent bony structures and actuating the spreading members with a proximal actuator assembly.
US07749229B1

A method is provided for performing total knee arthroplasty. The method includes making a primary incision near the knee joint of a leg of a patient and cutting medial and lateral condyles of the femur of the leg to create at least one femoral cut surface. The method also includes moving a femoral component of a total knee implant through the primary incision and positioning the femoral component with respect to the at least one femoral cut surface. The primary incision has a length of less than thirteen (13) centimeters.
US07749224B2

An external fixation system for a joint having a first and second bone and defining an anatomical axis of rotation is provided. The fixation system can include a proximal frame couplable to the first bone and a distal frame couplable to the second bone. A first connector can include a first member pivotally coupled to a second member at a first pivot axis. A second connector can include a third member pivotally coupled to a fourth member at a second pivot axis. The first and second connectors are mountable between the proximal and distal frames at a location such that the first and second pivot axes are coaxial with the anatomical axis of rotation.
US07749215B1

A method for delivering a cell to a heart of a patient comprises the steps of providing an apparatus for intracardiac drug administration comprising a catheter wherein the catheter has at least one position sensor which generates signals responsive to the position of a catheter and a drug delivery device for delivering the cell. The catheter is inserted into a chamber of the heart at a site and the cell is delivered to the site with the drug delivery device in response to the signals from the position sensor. Typical cells useful for delivery are either myoblasts or myocytes. These cells may be utilized as either an expression vector for promoting angiogenesis or for cell transplantation and fusion through myogenesis.
US07749211B2

An absorbent garment includes a chassis having first and second layers and an elastic core sandwiched therebetween. The chassis defines front and rear body panels each having elastic regions exhibiting a substantially permanent deformation of at least about 10% when elongated 80% for a period of 30 minutes at 37° C. and 60% relative humidity and then allowed to relax under a zero applied force. An absorbent composite is coupled to the chassis.
US07749205B2

A wearer wears a urine receptacle in which a urine absorbent material 3 is housed in a substantially rectangular, non-breathable, liquid-impermeable outer sheet having a U-shaped cross-section, and the surface of the urine absorbent material is covered with a hard-breathable, liquid permeable top sheet. Urine is discharged from a urine drainage port formed on the bottom surface of the outer sheet to a sealed urine tank by a vacuum pump through urine drainage tubes.
US07749202B2

A plunger tip for being located on a distal end of a syringe plunger and for sliding sealed engagement with an interior surface of a syringe barrel includes a core constructed of a generally rigid material. The core has a first end for being secured to the plunger, a second end and an endless sidewall between the first and second ends. An elastomeric sleeve at least partially surrounds the endless sidewall of the core.
US07749197B2

Embodiments of the present invention generally provide methods and devices for providing percutaneous access to a tissue. In one exemplary embodiment, a PEG tube is provided having an elongate member with a proximal end adapted to be positioned adjacent to a tissue surface, a distal end adapted to be inserted through tissue, and an inner lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends and adapted to allow fluid flow there through. The PEG tube can also include an electrically actuatable element coupled to the distal end of the elongate member and configured to change dimensionally upon delivery of electrical energy thereto. In use, the electrically actuatable element can be adapted to expand to engage tissue and secure the distal end of the PEG tube to the tissue.
US07749194B2

Certain exemplary embodiments comprise can comprise an auto-injector, which can comprise: a vial configured to store and/or contain an injectable medicament, the vial defining a vial longitudinal axis, and a housing comprising the vial. In various embodiments, the injectable medicament can be a medicine, medication, drug, pharmaceutical, prescriptive, agent, antidote, anti-venom, hormone, stimulant, vasodilator, anesthetic, and/or nutritional supplement that is substantially ready for injection.
US07749193B2

A venous port for withdrawal of fluid in which one or more extensions are provided which can selectively extend to remove impediments from an aperture of the port.
US07749190B2

An automatic medicament injector having a compartment for a dry medicament component and a compartment for a wet medicament component. The two compartments are separated by a seal structure that converts from a sealing condition to a mixing condition when the device is activated. The seal structure includes a wiper that scrapes the interior walls in the dry component compartment to prevent the dry component from accumulating at the seal/glass interface. A tapered insert funnels the mixed medicament components to an attached needle assembly, but can be removed when the device is filled. A filter is provided between the medicament compartments and the needle assembly. A chamber between the filter and the needle allows for better flow through the filter. An actuation assembly drives the seal structure into the mixing condition and forces the mixed medicament through the needle and into the user.
US07749183B2

A patella protector assembly for use with an orthopedic device, wherein the patella protector assembly has a central shell, an upper shell slidably connected to the central shell, and a lower shell slidably connected to the central shell. The central shell includes a main shell and a flexible perimeter edge portion surrounding at least a section of the perimeter of the main shell. The perimeter edge portion has greater flexibility than the main shell. The upper and lower shells are arranged pivotally and telescopically relative to the central shell such that the central, upper and lower shells together form a continuous shell without gaps therebetween.
US07749182B2

One embodiment of an orthopedic support for supporting a joint of a wearer includes a sheet of flexible material having a proximal edge and a distal edge configured to extend at least partially around a portion of a wearer's anatomy and a pair of opposing lateral edges configured to at least partially enclose the portion of the wearer's anatomy. The support also includes a plurality of stays each secured to the sheet of material and configured to be positioned adjacent to a portion of the wearer's anatomy. In addition, the support includes at least one slotted connector interconnecting at least a pair of the stays, wherein each of the stays is configured to pivot and slide within the slotted connector.
US07749181B2

A patellofemoral brace including a buttress for supporting a wearer's patella is provided. The patellofemoral brace includes an elastic sleeve that is easy to apply to the wearer's leg and easy to remove from the wearer's leg. The sleeve includes distinct bands of material so that end bands are substantially rotationally independent of a central band. The end bands resist translation along and rotation about the wearer's leg. The brace further includes a tensioning strap that lies across the buttress to further support the buttress and the wearer's patella. A portion of the tensioning strap is constructed of a thermoplastic elastomer, so that the strap provides firmer support to the buttress than a fabric strap, but is more comfortable and more evenly supports the buttress than a hard, inelastic strap.
US07749179B2

The invention provides, in various embodiments, devices and methods for supporting an injured arm. In certain embodiments, the invention relates to adjustable sling assemblies.
US07749168B2

Medical examination and/or treatment system having a catheter (1) with a sensor (3, 4) connected to an image recording system, said sensor being connected to an image processing unit (24, 25) for evaluating the sensor signals recorded in an examination area, a display unit (26) for displaying the images (12) of the image processing unit (24, 25) and a means for detecting the position and/or orientation of the catheter tip, whereby the system can generate three-dimensional images from the two-dimensional images (12) of the image recording system based on the detected position and/or direction of the catheter tip.
US07749165B2

An apparatus and methods to quantify the volume of urine in a human bladder with a limited number of acoustic beams is disclosed. In a first version a plurality of narrow ultrasound beams is transmitted in different directions towards the bladder. Returning echoes are converted to digital form and stored in memory. A volume display on the apparatus allows to define the optimal apposition of the transducer assembly. Signal processing software automatically determines the bladder Depth D and Height H and computes the volume of urine. In a second version, a single wide angle ultrasound beam transducer transmits ultrasounds signals at a fundamental frequency to quantify the urine volume. Return signals originating from a depth beyond the usual position of the posterior wall depth of a filled bladder are analyzed for presence of higher harmonic signals, which in turn are related to the presence or absence of urine.
US07749161B2

A seal assembly for permitting hand assisted laparoscopic procedures includes a seal cap having an iris seal positioned within a housing. The housing includes a lower seal ring having a track which supports an upper seal ring for relative rotational motion, wherein the iris seal is supported between the upper seal ring and the lower seal ring for rotation between an open orientation and a closed orientation. The seal assembly also includes a retractor extending from the seal cap.
US07749160B2

An endoscope device includes an objective lens group that is provided at a distal end of an insertion portion that is inserted into a lumen of a subject and is used to observe or photograph the subject, and an illumination device that is provided at a distal end of the insertion portion and illuminates the subject using LED. The illumination device is provided with LED chips and an LED chip supporting block that supports these LED chips, and at least a portion of the objective lens group is mounted on the LED supporting block.
US07749158B2

An electronic endoscope has a video-scope with an image sensor and a video-processor. The electronic endoscope has a first memory, a second memory, and a program data transmitter. The first memory is provided in the video-scope, and is capable of storing program data associated with an operation of the video-processor. The second memory is provided in the video-processor, and is capable of storing the program data. The program data transmitter according to the present invention is capable of transmitting the program data from the first memory to the second memory in a situation where the video-scope is connected to the video-processor.
US07749156B2

A retractable treatment instrument for an endoscope is provided. The retractable treatment instrument includes a flexible sheath configured such that at least a tip portion thereof is formed of a flexible tube, an operation wire inserted in the flexible sheath so as to be movable along an axial direction of the operation wire in the flexible sheath, and a front-end treatment member attached to a tip of the operation wire. In this structure, the front-end treatment member is movable back and forth along the axial direction with respect to a tip of the flexible sheath. The front-end treatment member has a wide part elongated in a radial direction of the flexible tube to press and broaden the flexible tube from an inside of the flexible tube.
US07749149B2

A miniaturized x-ray apparatus for delivering x-rays to a selected site within a body cavity includes a catheter having at least one lumen and an x-ray transparent window at a distal end thereof; an x-ray source in the lumen adjacent said x-ray transparent window; a movable x-ray shield positioned to direct x-rays from the source through the x-ray transparent window to the selected site.
US07749142B2

A physical therapy apparatus includes a pole, a weighted base, and one or more types of grips. Weights are attached to the pole near the grips to counterbalance gravitational forces on the user and to thereby provide evenly proportioned tension throughout the full range of motion of the apparatus as it is moved. The apparatus may be moved in virtually any direction, providing constant tension for working and stretching muscles to aid in recovery from muscle injuries.
US07749138B2

An integrated folding mechanism of a treadmill having a slide pusher supported by a pneumatic cylinder at the bottom of a platform frame thereof. In this way, the rear support may be pushed upward to bring the platform frame in a vertical stable folding position or in a flat ground-touching position when the platform frame is moved upward and downward. Meanwhile, the rear support is provided with a push rod opposing to the handrail assembly. The push rod is adapted to push a coupling cross shaft having a rotation disc at both sides thereof, respectively. In this way, the handrail assembly fixed coaxially to the rotation discs can be synchronically moved in a flat position or in an upright position.
US07749133B2

A driving device of the invention has a clutch 40 and a continuously variable transmission 50. The clutch 40 couples and decouples a rotating shaft 24 or an output shaft of a motor 30 with and from a driveshaft 22. The continuously variable transmission 50 has an input shaft connected to the rotating shaft 24 and an output shaft connected to the driveshaft 22 via a gear mechanism 52. A spring 36 is attached to a rotor 31 of the motor 30 to apply a pressing force and cause the clutch 40 to couple the rotating shaft 24 with the driveshaft 22 in response to a relatively small output torque of the motor 30. With an increase in output torque of the motor 30, a thrust force produced in the motor 30 moves the rotating shaft 24 against the pressing force of the spring 36 to cause the clutch 40 to decouple the rotating shaft 24 from the driveshaft 22. The output torque of the motor 30 is then transmitted to the driveshaft 22 with a gear change of the continuously variable transmission 50.
US07749131B2

A vehicular drive system includes a standby control apparatus which controls a switch to standby control based on a switching line graph that has a standby region that places a differential state switching device in a state just before it starts to apply. This standby region is located between a differential region and a locked region on the switching line graph. Accordingly, when the differential state switching device enters the standby region from the differential region, it is placed in a state just before it starts to apply. As a result, the differential state switching device is quickly able to have the necessary torque capacity when the engine torque is increased, which suppresses a decrease in the durability of the differential state switching device.
US07749130B2

At the time of a change of a gearshift position SP from a neutral (N) position to a drive (D) position (step S220), when a vehicle speed V is not lower than a preset reference speed Vref1 (step S230: yes), the control procedure of the invention connects a power shaft with a driveshaft and attains an actual gear change of a transmission to a first speed (step S240). The reference speed Vref1 may be set to a slightly higher vehicle speed than an upper limit of a specific vehicle speed range having a potential for over rotation of a first motor by the gear change of the transmission to the first speed. When the vehicle speed V is lower than the preset reference speed Vref1 (step S230: no), on the other hand, the control procedure prohibits the connection of the power shaft with the driveshaft and the actual gear change of the transmission to the first speed. This arrangement desirably prevents the over rotation of the first motor caused by the gear change of the transmission to the first speed in the state that the vehicle speed V is lower than the preset reference speed Vref1.
US07749127B2

The transmission has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide eight forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission includes four planetary gear sets having five torque-transmitting devices, three fixed interconnections and a grounded member. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to at least one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The five torque-transmitting devices provide interconnections between various gear members, and with a stationary member, and are operated in combinations of two to establish at least eight forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
US07749122B2

An automatic transmission includes a planetary gear arrangement, and a plurality of engaging elements each arranged to vary an engagement state among the rotating elements of the planetary gear arrangement in such a manner to establish a normal gear ratio set and an emergency gear ratio set excluded from the normal gear ratio set. A control section performs the following: selecting a gear from the normal gear ratio set in accordance with a running state of a vehicle under normal operating conditions; controlling the engagement state of each of the engaging elements in such a manner to shift into the selected gear; establishing, when an interlock state is detected, an escape gear by releasing one of the engaging elements needed to be applied to establish the selected gear; and identifying an incorrectly-applied engaging element in accordance with the running state of the vehicle resulting from establishing the escape gear.
US07749120B2

A power transmission belt. The power transmission belt includes the following: a backing layer; a body having a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface joined with the backing layer, the top surface including a plurality of teeth, and the body including a plurality of reinforcing cords positioned between the top and bottom surfaces; and a fabric material having a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface at least partially embedded in the top surface of the body, the fabric material being a weft knitted structure having N×N ribs, wherein N is at least 2, and the top surface of the fabric material being at least partially exposed at surfaces of the plurality of teeth.
US07749116B2

The present invention provides a panel of the ball for ball game, said panel has the folding portion and the opposite folding portion on its periphery, which are opposite to each other and made of the same continuous material. The folding portion and the opposite folding portion of said leather panels have the good engaging property and difficult to separate with each other during usage because they are made of the same material. The panel has simple manufacturing process and low production cost, making the ball for ball game comprising above panels have good using properties, simple manufacturing process and low production cost.
US07749113B2

A lacrosse head that is constructed of multiple different materials or components having different strength characteristics with the stronger materials or components located in predetermined locations to provide increased resistance to flex and/or breakage in those areas while allowing desired flex in some areas. The lacrosse head is co-formed of the multiple different materials by such processes as injection molding, gas assist injection molding, compression molding, thermal forming and extrusion such that the multiple different materials are coupled to form a single integrated structure.
US07749112B2

The present invention provides a lacrosse stick (220) comprising a unibody head and shaft construction that increases lacrosse throwing accuracy and power.
US07749111B1

A basketball backboard assembly and a method of making the backboard assembly are disclosed. The assembly includes a backboard frame structure and an acrylic backboard which are bonded together with a suitable elastomeric adhesive, such as a silicone adhesive, providing adequate adhesion and flexibility. The elastomeric adhesive has a bond gap in the range from about 2 to 2.5 mm. The adhesive is catalyzed to provide control of the set time in the range from about 5 minutes to 1 hour. A plurality of bond gap spacers are located between the frame bonding surface and the backboard bonding surface to provide the bond gap.
US07749084B2

The present invention is direct to a Live Network Explorer (LNE) which allows users to graphically navigate through a web of interconnected friends on a gaming console. The LNE provides a real-time graphical representation of friend-of-friend relationships, with the currently-viewed user as a visual node in the screen center. The center node is surrounded by nodes representing that user's friends. Real-time animation is used to represent transitions as the user navigates from person to person. The LNE also represents groups as a visual node in this graphically interconnected web so that the user can travel to a group that a person belongs to, and can see all the people inside the group by connections. The user can navigate to any of these people in the group. The user can click on a person to bring up their digital identity details.
US07749075B2

A system for enabling a player to use residual credits on a gaming machine to provide the player with a chance to win a prize. the system includes means for determining a range of values as a function of a jackpot pool to generate randomly an outcome in the range of values, random number generation means for generating the random outcome, means for determining a range of outcome values of the player that provides a chance of the player winning the jackpot pool, and means for determining whether the generated random outcome matches any outcome value of the player.
US07749057B2

In a video game or simulator, suggested speed indicators are computed along a suggested driving line on a path (e.g., a race track) and displayed in a simple, progressive, and user-friendly format. The displayed speed indicators are based on a racer's current speed and target speeds attributed to individual locations along the suggested driving line on the path. The speed indicators provide a dynamic indication of where and how the player should slow down or speed up relative to their current speed as their racer travels along the path. The speed indicators are displayed (e.g., using color to represent different magnitudes of suggested acceleration and deceleration) along the suggested driving line in front of the racer so that the player can anticipate braking and acceleration actions as the path and the racer's speed change.
US07749052B2

One embodiment provides a retaining ring assembly. The retaining ring assembly comprises a retaining ring configured to circumferentially surround and retain the substrate within an inner surface of the retaining ring, and a flexure coupled to the retaining ring. The flexure is configured to maintain a gap between an inner surface of a carrier ring and an outer surface of the retaining ring, and the carrier ring is circumferentially surrounding the retaining ring.
US07749051B2

In the case of a method and an apparatus for manually aligning ophthalmic spectacle lenses (5), in particular semifinished products of progressive lenses, the spectacle lens is held for the purpose of machining the free side of the spectacle lens by a first holder via a connecting material situated therebetween. The holder is inserted into a cutout of a retaining device, the free side being machined. After machining of the free side of the spectacle lens, the first holder is inserted into a cutout of an adapter part that is provided with markings. Thereafter, the spectacle lens is aligned with the aid of the markings of the adapter part, the spectacle lens being held in a second holder via a further connecting material situated therebetween. The second holder is subsequently inserted in the retaining device. Finally, the first holder is removed from the spectacle lens together with the adapter part and the connecting material.
US07749049B2

Fluid jet polishing (FJP) is a method of contouring and polishing a surface of a component by aiming a jet of a slurry of working fluid from a nozzle at the component and eroding the surface to create a desired shape. During erosion, the end of the nozzle and the component are submerged within the working fluid, whereby air is not introduced into the closed loop of working fluid slurry. Any bubbles that are present in the system simply bubble to an air pocket at the top of the erosion chamber and are not re-circulated, thereby producing surfaces with very smooth surface finishes.
US07749045B1

A system and method of conditioning acceleration signals and/or preventing “glitch” actions due to spurious signals, and/or causing termination a competition, and/or disabling a specific contestant in a competition involving remote controlled miniature race vehicles.
US07749034B2

An ergonomic pedaling apparatus for travel in water, enabling a user to practice swimming skills, comprising: an ergonomic supporting body for supporting the upper part of the user's body when frontally mounted over the body, where the body includes a curved triangular structure having three vertices constructed by three connected chassis members; three floatation units each connected to a separate vertex of the body; and a pedaling assembly comprising two scooped pedals enabling the user to progress in water by hand pedaling the pedals. The floatation units include: a first and a second back floatation units each comprising a float, where the floatability of the back floatation units is substantially equal and a third front floatation unit comprising two float parts vertically positioned one on top of the other. The floatability of the combined floats of the third floatation unit may be substantially equal to the floatability of each of the back floatation units.
US07749026B1

This invention relates to an isolator. Primarily, an insulation cover is inserted by a connector being disposed with a plug-in unit. At least one iron core is disposed around a tube at the other end of a connector. A front cover is connected with a fixing seat having a first space and a second space in which first and second ring capacitors are respectively received. An insulation sleeve is arranged between the first and second ring capacitors. One end of each ring capacitor is disposed with a circular spring correspondingly. The other end of the fixing seat is connected to an outer tube, the outer end of which is arranged with a terminal portion with a plug-in unit mounted therein. Thereby the simplified structure of the isolator with an isolated ground effect improves the impedance matching and has properties of better bandwidth flatness, lower insertion loss, and better return loss.
US07749016B2

A lever insertion hole (6) for inserting a lever (5) is provided in a female housing (2). A rib (10) and a flexible lever-holding lock (11) are arranged on the inner wall (6A) of the lever insertion hole (6). The rib (10) enables the lever (5) to be inserted, through a key groove (54) axially provided in the outer peripheral surface of the lever (5), into the female housing (2) only when the lever (5) is at a predetermined rotational position. The rib (10) and the lever-holding lock (11) are together in contact with a wall section (57) of a coming-out prevention groove (56), provided in the lever (5), to hold the lever (5) from coming out.
US07749015B2

An upper panel section includes an inserting hole into which a tip of a longitudinal-type equipment-side connector that is mounted on a PCB of an equipment at right angle and includes a spring section formed on its lateral surface is inserted. A foot section supports the upper panel section on the PCB. An inner circumference of the inserting hole has a shape surrounding substantially an entire circumference of the tip of the equipment-side connector. The foot section is provided at a position that opens up the lateral surface of the longitudinal-type equipment-side connector on which the spring section of the equipment-side connector is formed.
US07749011B2

A floating connector adapted for use with microwave surgical instruments is presented. The disclosure provides for the use of cost-effective and readily available non-floating connectors in a floating housing which can compensate for dimensional variations and misalignments between the connectors. Multiple connectors of varying types can therefore be used within a single support housing without requiring the costly precision manufacturing processes normally associated with such multiple connector assemblies. The floating connector is suitable for use with electrical connections as well as fluidic connections.
US07749005B2

Breaker switch includes connector, socket, and surrounding housings. The connector housing has contacts and a blocking lever. The socket housing has sockets and a gear rack. An operating lever has a gear mounted to the connector housing and engaged to the gear rack to mount the connector and socket housings such that the connector housing is movable relative to the socket housing between starting and final positions. In the starting position the connector and socket housings disengage such that the contacts and sockets disengage. In the final position the connector and socket housings engage such that the contacts and sockets engage. In the starting and final positions the blocking lever engages the gear to maintain the position of the connector housing. The surrounding housing is connected to the socket housing and has a control edge that releases the blocking lever from the gear to enable the connector housing to move.
US07749004B2

An electrical connector assembly includes a plug assembly for mating with a header. The plug assembly includes a plug housing and a lever, where the lever includes gear teeth which cooperate with a tooth on the header in a rack and pinion fashion. The lever is locked to the plug housing when the lever is poised for the plug housing to be inserted into the header. A release member on the header releases the lever from the locked position allowing the lever to be rotated to the position where the lever gear teeth mesh with the header tooth, to draw the plug assembly into the header.
US07748997B2

A receptacle assembly for an electrical connector is provided. The assembly includes a housing, a plurality of electrical contacts and a shield. The housing includes a mating end and a mounting end that are orthogonal to each other. The mating end of the housing is elongated along a longitudinal axis of the housing. The electrical contacts are held by the housing and extend between a mating end presented at the mating end of the housing and a mounting end configured to be mounted to a circuit board. The shield has a mating interface elongated along a longitudinal axis. The shield is configured to receive the electrical connector. The housing and the contacts are located within the shield. The longitudinal axes of the housing and the mating interface are orthogonal to the circuit board.
US07748989B2

A conductive-contact holder base accommodates at least a signal conductive-contact that is a conductive contact for performing input and output of a signal for a predetermined circuit configuration and a ground conductive-contact that is a conductive contact for supplying a ground potential to the predetermined circuit configuration. A holder base is formed of a conductive material, including a first opening for accommodating the signal conductive-contact; and a second opening for accommodating the ground conductive-contact while maintaining an electrical connection with the ground conductive-contact. An insulating member covers an inner surface of the first opening.
US07748982B2

A dental attachment includes a magnet element delivering a magnetic attraction force, a yoke made of a soft magnetic material and having a recess for housing the magnet element, and a disc consisting of the soft magnetic material and joined to the yoke so as to close the opening of the recess with the magnet element housed in the recess. The yoke has an almost disc shape and has collars protruding radially outwardly from the outer peripheral surface thereof. The collars are formed to be separated in at least two locations in a substantially peripheral direction, and non-protruding portions having radially outward projection amounts of zero or up to 50% of the maximum projection amount at the collars are provided between respective collars.
US07748980B2

The present invention relates to an apparatus for providing specifically metered doses of at least two flowable dental materials in desired ratios to one another. In particular, the present invention allows for controlled metering and dispensing of two or more flowable dental substances which when subsequently mixed form a dental bonding composition, dental adhesive, dental cement, or other dental restorative or preparative materials. Specifically, one embodiment of the present invention utilizes a multi-rack system as well as a drive spring action to provide a substantial mechanical advantage to the user such that a relatively long throw of the dispensing button creates a relatively short, metered distance of movement of the multiple racks and corresponding pistons in the each lumen of a cartridge containing the component of the desired dental composition, allowing for small, metered doses of each flowable dental component to be dispensed from the apparatus in the proper proportions.
US07748976B2

A burner-based exhaust gas generation system, for producing exhaust gas, typically for use in testing exhaust system devices. Post-burner exhaust gas is recirculated back to a main exhaust line, and used for purposes such as cooling or enhancing the burner output.
US07748975B2

The present invention relates to a molding die for molding a hollow molding article, including: a pin plate having an inflow port for molding material, a tubular bushing forming a molding path continued from the inflow port, an outlet of the die positioned in the extending direction of the molding path, a conical pin provided perpendicularly to the pin plate and disposed inside the molding path, a gap, that is continuous in the longitudinal direction, being provided between an inner wall surface of the molding path and an outer surface of the conical pin, an adjusting device for adjusting a width of a standard annular gap when a gap formed between a specified position in the longitudinal direction of the molding path and the outer surface of the conical pin opposing to the position.
US07748968B2

In a two-cylinder rotary compressor, two compressing sections accommodated in a compressor body and an accumulator are connected to each other by two suction pipes each formed with an L-shaped bend part in the intermediate pipe part thereof. To reduce a pressure loss caused by the flow resistance of a refrigerant sucked from the accumulator into the compressor, the L-shaped bend parts of the two suction pipes are arranged on different imaginary planes including the center axis line of the compressor body.
US07748964B2

A blood pump apparatus comprises a housing, a centrifugal pump section including an impeller and rotating inside the housing to feed a fluid by a centrifugal force, an impeller rotational torque generation section for attracting thereto said impeller and rotating said impeller; and a plurality of grooves for hydrodynamic bearing provided on an inner surface of said housing at a side of said impeller rotational torque generation section, each of the grooves for hydrodynamic bearing having a first side and a second side both extending from a periphery of said portion in which a groove for hydrodynamic bearing is formed toward a central side thereof and opposed to each other, a third side connecting one end of said first side and one end of said second side to each other, and a fourth side connecting said other end of said first side and said other end of said second side to each other; said first side and said second side are formed as a circular arc respectively in such a way that centers of said circular arcs are different from each other.
US07748962B2

A fluid handling apparatus includes a body, which comprises a fluid handling structure, and a flexible membrane attached to the body and formed to interact with a fluid in the fluid handling structure, wherein the membrane comprises a first actuation component. A second actuation component is provided, wherein the first and the second actuation component are formed such that the same attract or repel each other in a first positional relationship, in order to actuate the flexible membrane. A driving means is provided to move the body relative to the second actuation component, in order to bring the first and the second actuation component into the first and out of the first positional relationship.
US07748959B1

A turbine disc used in a turbo-pump that is exposed to a large thermal gradient across the sides of the rotor disc. The warm side of the turbine disc is covered by a cover plate that forms a sealed space between the turbine disc and the cover plate, and this space is evacuated or insulated to form a complete vacuum or as near as a complete vacuum as possible. The surfaces of the turbine disc and cover plate that form the vacuum space are also coated with a reflective coating such as with a highly polished surface of low emissivity in order to minimize the radiation heat loss through the vacuum space. The turbine disc can have a cover plate forming a vacuum space or insulated cavity on both sides of the turbine disc. Ribs are also used within the vacuum space as supports for the cover plate due to the difference in pressure from the ambient side and the vacuum.
US07748955B2

A vibration-isolating fixing mechanism for a fan frame. The mechanism, configured to couple the fan frame to first fastening portions of a casing, includes: coupling portions protrudingly disposed on two installation surfaces of the fan frame; positioning brackets each having second fastening portions and through-holes; resilient elements each circumferentially disposed between each coupling portion and each through-hole and extending to two through-hole-corresponding sides of each positioning bracket; and coupling elements coupled to the coupling portions respectively, positioned on one side of each resilient element facing away from the fan frame, and configured to position the positioning brackets and the fan frame relative to one another. Axial vibration isolation is achieved by insertion of the coupling portions into the through-holes circumferentially disposed with the resilient elements and by resilient contact between each resilient element and each coupling element.
US07748954B2

A centrifugal fan includes a space in which the dimension between a shroud-facing wall and a shroud, from the outer peripheral side to the inner peripheral side of the shroud, is substantially uniform, wherein the shroud-facing wall includes a recess extending in the circumferential direction, the recess being disposed at the inner peripheral side of the outer peripheral end of the shroud-facing wall forming the space having the uniform dimension so that the recess forms a space larger than the other part.
US07748949B2

A pump unit 12 includes a pump housing 14, a pump cover 16, and an impeller 18 between the pump housing and pump cover. The pump housing and pump cover define a first channel 32 and a second channel 34 each having an inlet and an outlet. The impeller has first vanes 36 cooperating with the first channel and second vanes 38 cooperating with the second channel. The outlet of the second channel is constructed and arranged to provide fuel to an engine upon rotation of the impeller. A jet pump 38 is fluidly connected with the outlet of the first channel such that as the impeller rotates, the jet pump causes fuel to be drawn into the reservoir 37. Connecting structure 44 fluidly connects the first and second channels such that upon rotation of the impeller, fuel in the second channel flows into the first channel to prime the first channel.
US07748948B2

A vortex-flow blower device includes an impeller having a plurality of fins, a blower housing that has a vortex flow chamber for accommodating the impeller and extends from a start point on a side of a the fluid inlet port to an end point on a side of a fluid discharge port along the plurality of fins, a partitioning portion that blocks a communication between the end point and the start point in the vortex flow chamber, and a thermal fuse that is provided in the blower housing. The thermal fuse can be fused by a temperature rise so as to discharge the fluid on the side of the fluid discharge port to an outside, or communicate with the side of the fluid discharge port to the side of the fluid inlet port in the vortex flow chamber when the thermal fuse is fused.
US07748945B2

An apparatus for sealing a turbine against leakage of a working fluid comprising at least one radially displaceable sealing ring, coaxially disposed about a rotating member of the turbine from a stationary member of the turbine, which sealing ring undergoes radial displacements that are coupled to radial displacements of the rotating member, such that a design radial clearance is substantially maintained without damage to the apparatus.
US07748944B2

A method and apparatus for semiconductor processing is disclosed. In one embodiment, a method of transporting a wafer within a cluster tool, comprises placing the wafer into a first segment of a vacuum enclosure, the vacuum enclosure being attached to a processing chamber and a factory interface. The wafer is transported to a second segment of the vacuum enclosure using a vertical transport mechanism, wherein the second segment is above or below the first segment.
US07748942B2

In a load port apparatus, a slit is formed between an inner circumferential surface of an opening on a wall of the chamber of the apparatus and an outer circumferential surface of a door. In a predetermined section of the slit, the slit width at the chamber side opening of the slit is made larger than the slit width at other positions with respect to the depth direction of the slit. By this feature, gas flow from the interior of the load port apparatus to the exterior through a clearance formed between the inner surface of the opening that allows to bring wafers out of/into a pod and the door that substantially closes the opening can be made stable.
US07748940B2

An apparatus for perfect binding of unbound print products to form bound print products comprises at least one processing station arranged along a circulating path between a feed station for the unbound print products and a delivery station for the bound print products, and a plurality of clamping devices arranged successively along the circulating path and driven jointly. Each of the clamping devices is adapted to hold at least two of the unbound print products such that the unbound print products face the processing station with overhangs that freely project from the clamping device and form spines of the unbound print products.
US07748932B2

This invention relates to a system and method for use in stabilizing different types of soils and/or creating anchorage and more particularly, to a system and method for injecting various types of solidifying material into a subsurface through a drilling apparatus during the drilling operation. The drilling apparatus may be removable and reusable used to create a micro or mini pile for soil stabilization, or alternatively it can be left in place to be used in conjunction with grout and similar materials for forming an anchor or load carry pier. A solidifying material swivel, a drive connector and a drilling apparatus, in combination are attached to a power drive unit. In one preferred embodiment, the drilling apparatus remains within the soil subsurface, encased in solidifying material. In another preferred embodiment, the drilling apparatus is removed leaving a homogenous pile of solidifying material behind.
US07748929B2

The present invention is directed toward various valving arrangements to control the flow of granular material. In one embodiment, a valve is provided which facilitates flow of the material in one direction, but resists flow in another direction. In another embodiment, a retaining wall is provided with a plurality of generally horizontal passageways, which, under normal circumstances, resist passage of the flowable granular material positioned therebehind and, under modified circumstances, can serve as relief valves to avoid pressure on the wall which might cause the wall to move in an undesirable manner. In a third embodiment, a plurality of valving units is provided for beach retention of sand through efficient separation of sand from incoming waves.
US07748927B2

A watertight manhole insert and tether locking apparatus and method of use designed to prevent unauthorized entry into a sanitary sewer or other closed drainage system through a manhole closed by a manhole cover. The manhole insert is located beneath the manhole cover and is connected to the manhole by a tether apparatus in the manhole to prevent water entry into the manhole, theft of the manhole insert and to deny access to the manhole. The manhole insert includes a pan-shaped insert body having pressure-relief valve and a lift strap and a side wall fitted with a top rim for engaging a shoulder shaped in the manhole, to support the manhole insert in the manhole. In a preferred embodiment one end of a flexible stainless steel tether is connected to the bottom side of the manhole insert and the opposite end extends through a pair of oppositely-disposed anchor rings fixed to the manhole wall beneath the manhole insert and then through an opening in the manhole insert and a locking device on the top of the manhole insert. When the manhole insert is placed in the manhole, the tether is tightened in the anchor rings as it is pulled upwardly through the locking device and is locked at the locking device.
US07748922B2

A ring binder mechanism that retains loose-leaf pages and has ring members that are easy to open and close and that readily lock together when closed. The mechanism comprises a housing that supports two hinge plates for loose pivoting motion. The hinge plate motion moves the ring members between an open position for loading pages and a closed position for retaining pages. A control structure is movable by a lever, which is pivotally mounted on the housing, between a first and second position. In the first position, pivoting motion of the hinge plates is blocked, and in the second position, the hinge plates can freely pivot. In one aspect of the invention, a spring is engageable with the lever for urging the lever to move the control structure toward the first position.
US07748917B2

A tape drive for use in for example a transfer printing apparatus to drive a printer ribbon. The printer ribbon is mounted on two spools each of which is driven by a respective stepper motor. A controller controls the energization of the motor such that the ribbon is transported in at least one direction between spools mounted on the spool support. The controller is operative to energize both motors to drive the spools of ribbon in the direction of ribbon transport to achieve push-pull operations. Ribbon tension is monitored to enable accurate control of ribbon supply and ribbon take-up, the ribbon tension being monitored, for example, by monitoring power supply to the two stepper motors.
US07748916B2

A lens barrel for holding a lens group therein has a body with a peripheral on which an external thread is formed. The external thread has a plurality of turns which are partially interrupted by at least one threadless segment such that the external thread has at least one of the turns completely extending around the periphery of the body. As a result of the threadless segment, the friction which is generated upon screwingly engaging the lens barrel into a coupling socket can be reduced.
US07748913B2

The present invention is a splicing structure of optical fibers for fusing a double clad fiber and a single clad fiber, the splicing structure is provided with a block covering a fusion splicing point of the double clad fiber and the single clad fiber, and which is made of a highly thermal conductive material.
US07748912B2

An optoelectronic device comprises a light source, a generally coplanarly disposed detector, the detector receiving light from the light source, a light conductive inner encapsulate molded around the light source and the detector, an opaque light reflective outer encapsulate molded around and interfaced with a surface of the light conductive inner encapsulate, and a lens disposed above, and in a light path between, the light source and the detector.
US07748905B2

A linear motion rolling guide unit with underside seals not falling away from a slider even when mounting the slider on a track rail. An engaging member comprises a protrusion having two faces extending parallel to the sliding direction of the slider, one facing the track rail and the other facing away the track rail. The protrusion comprises an inner hook protruding toward the track rail and an outer hook protruding in the opposite direction and being out of phase with the inner hook in the sliding direction of the slider, and moves through the fitting hole while being elastically deformed in the process of pressing the engaging member into the fitting hole after the inner hook has been engaged with the fitting hole, and returns to its original shape when the outer hook passes through the fitting hole, whereby the inner and outer hooks hold the underside seal.
US07748893B2

An enclosed magnetic stirring bar arrangement includes a housing formed by front and rear walls interconnected by a peripheral wall, so as to define a substantially hollow interior chamber within said housing. An operational opening is formed within the front wall and at least one discharging aperture is provided in the peripheral wall. A magnetic stirring member is movably positioned within the substantially hollow interior chamber, whereby rotational motion of the magnetic stirring member facilitates entering a liquid into the substantially hollow interior chamber and discharging the liquid from the interior chamber through the at least one discharging aperture.
US07748890B2

A gas processing device for mixing a first gas (H2) and a second gas (air) comprises a flow passage (110) through which the second gas (air) passes, an inflow port (104) for introducing the first gas (H2) in a non-parallel direction to the flow direction of the second gas (air) within the flow passage (110), and a housing (101) for sealing a part of the flow passage (110). The flow passage (110) comprises hole structures (111), through which the second gas (air) and first gas (H2) pass in and out, in at least a part of the region sealed by the housing (101). According to this constitution, the hole structures generate turbulence, and hence the degree of mixing between the first gas (H2) and second gas (air) can be improved, enabling a uniform reduction in the gas concentration.
US07748888B2

A process for stabilizing plaster includes: a) providing a heated HH-plaster; b) feeding the hot plaster in a moistening device having walls heated to at least 100° C.; c) injecting water and/or steam into the moistening device in conditions that such not yet moistened surfaces of the plaster are exposed to the injected water and/or steam; d) maintaining an atmosphere in the moistening device at a level of the dew point in the range of 75 to 99° C.; e) feeding the moistened blend into a curing device; f) maintaining an atmosphere in the curing device above 75° C. for at least 3 minutes; g) feeding the moistened and cured blend into a drying device; and h) drying the moistened and cured blend.Also an apparatus for moistening β-hemihydrate plaster includes a rotating drum with lifting blades inside where all walls in contact with the product are externally heated at a temperature above 100° C.
US07748873B2

The present invention relates to a side illumination lens and a luminescent device using the same, and provides a body, a total reflection surface with a total reflection slope with respect to a central axis of the body, and a linear and/or curved refractive surface(s) formed to extend from a periphery of the total reflection surface; and a luminescent device including the lens. According to the present invention, a lens with total internal reflection surfaces with different slopes, and a linear and/or curved refractive surface(s) allows light emitted forward from a luminescent chip to be guided to a side of the lens. Further, a linear surface(s) formed in a direction perpendicular or parallel to a central axis of a lens and a curved surface are formed on an edge of the lens so that a process of fabricating the lens is facilitated, thereby reducing a defective rate and fabrication costs of the lens.
US07748869B2

A recessed lighting fixture includes a trim member and a light projector accessory having one or more lenses, one or more gobos including an image to be projected, a suitable attachment for the accessory to be attached to the recessed light fixture, and a focusing mechanism for focusing the image projected from the gobo.
US07748867B2

A deflection component for a luminaire is hollow and consists of two sections, of which a first section is parallel to the axis and a second section in contrast runs obliquely outwards.
US07748865B2

A triangular red LED warning device comprises a compact box. A pair of oblique side red LED flashing boards, a base side red LED flashing board and a pair of supporting leg plates. The pair of oblique side red LED flashing boards are connected frictionally by a frictional tightening means at each one end to both ends of the base side red LED flashing board, and their each other ends are also connected detachably by means of an elastic connecting pin at neighborhood of the vertical angle, which is formed by the both oblique side boards. Thus, the triangular red LED flashing board can make various signal forms by frictional rotation and stoppage of the each oblique side board for a suitable degree against gravity, and can be freely folded to be received into a compact box after using.
US07748861B2

A light fixture (10) is provided having a housing (11), a light diffusor (12), a light source (13), and a heating source (14). The housing includes a mounting plate (17) adapted to be mounted to the ceiling of a structure in conventional fashion. The mounting plate includes a radial array of mounting arms (18) which form air intake openings (19) therebetween. The mounting plate is coupled to a tubular flow channel (21) having a central passage (22) extending therethrough. The bottommost portion of the flow channel includes threaded neck (24). A threaded locking plate (28) rotatably mates with the threaded neck. The locking plate includes a radial array of exhaust openings (32) extending therethrough. The heat source includes a heating element (38) and a motorized fan (39).
US07748860B2

The identification device comprises at least one electroluminescent wire that extends along the cable or duct to be identified. The electroluminescent wire is designed to be electrically supplied in a temporary manner, so as to display the path of the cable or duct. This device is applicable to the identification of electrical cables, or pneumatic and hydraulic ducts, or fibre-optic cables or cords.
US07748859B2

A backlight module (1) includes a light source (121), a light guide plate (122) and a grating plate (123). The light guide plate includes a light incident surface (1221), a bottom surface (1223) adjacent the light incident surface. The light source is provided adjacent to the light incident surface of the light guide plate. The grating plate is provided adjacent to the bottom surface of the light guide plate. The grating plate is configured for reflecting light beams and polarizing the light beams.
US07748847B2

Devices, systems, and methods measure, diagnose, and/or treat one or both eyes of a patient. Adaptive optics systems (such as those having a deformable mirror) may be configured to an aspherical or multi-spherical presbyopia-mitigating prescriptive shape to allow objective and/or subjective measurements of a candidate prescription. A plurality of viewing distances allow subjective and/or objective evaluations of performance using a light spot or a test viewing image. Measurements of aberrations at selected viewing conditions (including distances and/or brightness) with correlating pupil sizes may also be provided.
US07748841B1

A side-view mirror attachment for a pair of spectacles constructed of a pair of mirrors each having a hemispherical shape, a center frame that has two opposite ends each fixedly connected to one of the pair of mirrors, and a mounting device for either detachably or permanently mount the attachment to a pair of spectacles.
US07748829B2

A method of printing includes associating a pixel area of a recording medium with a nozzle and a time interval during which a fluid drop ejected from the nozzle can impinge the pixel area of the recording medium. The time interval is divided into a plurality of subintervals. Some of the plurality of subintervals are grouped into blocks. One of two labels is associated with each block. The first label defines a printing drop and the second label defines non-printing drops. No drop forming pulse is associated between subintervals of each block having the first label. A drop forming pulse is associated between each subinterval of each block having the second label. A drop forming pulse is associated between other subintervals between each pair of consecutive blocks. Drops are caused to be ejected from the nozzle based on the associated drop forming pulses.
US07748826B2

A printing head, having symmetrically-arranged ejection openings, can suppress deterioration in image quality as caused by manufacturing errors or problems in mounting accuracy thereof. Specifically, in the case the printing head inclines, for example, by 0.5 degrees at a line connecting corresponding ejection openings of ejection opening arrays relative to the scanning direction, deviations occur in the dots formed through one of the ejection opening arrays with reference to the dots formed through another ejection opening array. However, the deviations can be minimized by arranging adjacently small-ejection opening arrays for cyan and magenta with a spacing reduced between those ejection opening arrays.
US07748822B2

The ink jet printer comprises a printhead (22) movable in front of a printing medium (30) and provided with an ink cartridge (25) integral with it; the cartridge is filled with ink from a main, high capacity tank (35), which is connected at intervals to the cartridge (25) by means of a capillary element. During each connection, the capillary element (101) is brought into contact with the sponge (41) inside the cartridge, while a peristaltic pump (134) mounted integral upon the main tank provides a pressure suitable for generating a sufficient flow of ink to refill the cartridge (25) in a short time frame. To perform the refilling, the cartridge is brought at the end of its stroke into a service station (5) mounted on the body of the main tank (35), which is moved against the cartridge by means of a motor-driven linkage, controlled by a refilling management programme, in response to the signals of a cartridge ink level sensor.
US07748820B2

An image recording apparatus including: an ink-jet head having a plurality of nozzles which are open in a surface thereof so as to provide a nozzle opening surface and through which ink is ejected; and a cap which is operable to cover the nozzle opening surface of the ink-jet head so as to surround the plurality of nozzles and which includes (a) a peripheral portion that comes into close contact with the nozzle opening surface at an end thereof when the cap covers the nozzle opening surface and (b) an outlet formed at a part of the peripheral portion, the part being located at a lower position when the image recording apparatus is kept in a posture for transportation thereof.
US07748814B2

An ink-jet recording apparatus of the present invention records an image on a recording medium by having ink landed on the recording medium. The apparatus includes ink-jet heads, a dot position memory unit, an image data memory unit, a print data generating unit and a head controller. The dot position memory unit stores therein dot positions which include: black dot positions where only ink droplets of black ink are landed and chromatic color dot positions where only ink droplets of chromatic color ink are landed. The head controller causes the ink-jet heads to eject the ink droplets to the dot positions, so that: only the ink droplets of the black ink lands in the black dot positions stored in the dot position memory unit; and only the ink droplets of the chromatic color ink lands in the chromatic color dot positions stored in the dot position memory unit.
US07748809B2

In the ink-jet printing apparatus, the influence of displacements of printing positions caused by the excessive conveyance of a printing medium to the resultant image when the rear end of the printing medium exits from a nip portion between the roller pair in a conveying mechanism. More specifically, in the printing operation for the rear end portion of the printing medium in which the printing medium exits from the roller pair, the guide shaft for supporting the carriage is lifted at a position wherein a head-medium distance is changed to widen a distance between the printing had and the printing medium (S402). Thereby, the displacement of the landing position caused by the excessive conveyance of the printing medium is inconspicuous because of the variations of the landing positions due to the widening of the head-medium distance.
US07748805B2

A support element for use with a refrigerator, the support element having a support surface with a rear edge, at least two support arms located on the support element and being laterally spaced from one another, with the support arms extending rearwardly of the rear edge and being laterally biased.
US07748790B2

A spoked wheel for a bicycle includes a rim, a hub, a plurality of spokes tensioned between the rim and the hub, each provided with a spoke attachment element for attachment to the rim, a plurality of seats, such seats being openings formed in the rim, each for housing one of said spoke attachment elements. The shape and size of the spoke attachment elements and of the seats of the rim are such that: the spoke attachment element is suitable for taking up a first configuration in which its insertion through the seat is possible; and the spoke attachment element once inserted in the seat assumes a second configuration in which it is not possible to remove the spoke attachment element through the seat.
US07748787B2

A seat system for a vehicle and method of manufacturing the same including a seat foam pad having a headrest portion and a backrest portion. A structural support member is included that is formed of a foam material that is at least partially enclosed by the headrest portion and the backrest portion. The seat system also includes a seat frame having the seat foam pad and the structural support member adjacent thereto, wherein the seat foam pad and the structural support member enable the seat system to meet a predetermined structural requirement.
US07748783B2

In order to secure a shape retaining property of a support face of a backrest 1 of a chair, the backrest 1 for chairs comprises frame elements 21 and 22 arranged in pairs at right and left sides, a flexible support member 3 that bridges the frame elements 21 and 22 to support a load of a body of a seated person and an adjust mechanism that can change a bent degree of the support member 3 in multiple states and that can maintain the state against the load of the seated person.
US07748782B2

In accordance with one embodiment, tilt adjustment mechanism mounted on a child safety seat is provided, the tilt adjustment mechanism including: a seat portion having a recess; and a support block pivotally connected to the seat portion having a first protruding portion, the support block being rotated relative to the seat portion between a first position at which the recess of the seat portion is engaged with the first protruding portion of the support block and a second position at which the recess of the seat portion is disengaged from the first protruding portion of the support block for varying an angle between the seat portion and the support block.
US07748781B2

A head and body protection assembly which includes a safety seat shell and a plurality of chambers secured to the shell. A belt which includes a plurality of chambers is placed across the lap or mid section of an individual in the seat. The chambers are inflated to a pre-selected pressure which provides protection of the occupant of the seat from side, rear and frontal impacts. The chambers or pads are inflated or deflated to permit the chambers or pads to be adjusted to the size of the occupant of the seat. The assembly includes a device to indicate the correct inflation pressure. The chambers are fluidly interconnected to distribute fluid throughout the assembly to help absorb the impact of the head of the occupant. The chambers can be filled with an energy absorbing foam.
US07748774B2

Provided is an automotive vehicle body structure which is light weight but demonstrates improved mechanical strength during a frontal or side collision. A pair of front side frames extend in a fore-and-aft direction in a mutually spaced relationship in a front part of a vehicle body, and a pair of floor frames having forward ends joined to rear ends of the corresponding front side frames, respectively, extend in the fore-and-aft direction. A first middle cross member is joined to intermediate parts of the floor frames and to lateral ends of side sills. A front cross member is joined to a front side of the first middle cross member, has a pair of lateral ends that are joined to inboard sides of the corresponding front side frames, and is arch shaped such that a fore-and-aft dimension of the front cross member diminishes from each side end toward a middle part.
US07748767B2

A tonneau cover is mounted to the cargo area of a pickup truck by a hinge mechanism positioned at the forward end of the pickup truck cargo area. The hinge assembly has two major components. The first component is a mounting plate that is affixed to each sidewall of the cargo area near the forward extent of the cargo area. The mounting plate includes an alignment mechanism and a mechanism for clamping the second component onto the mounting plate. The base plate also includes slots for engagement by the clamping mechanism of the mounting plate. The articulating mechanism is configured to open the tonneau cover in a nearly vertical direction initially, prior to rotation of the tonneau cover to an open position. An installer can reach in from the side of the truck cargo area and engage the clamps to secure the removable component to the mounting plate.
US07748763B2

A sliding arrangement (31) for supporting a slide out body member of a slide out on a vehicle body in a way that permits the slide out body member to slide relative to the vehicle body between an expanded and a retracted position. The sliding arrangement (31) includes at least one female member (32) mounted on one of the slide out body member and the vehicle body, the female member (32) having an internal surface defining a passage open at one end. The sliding arrangement (31) further includes a male member (30) slidably received within the open end and passage of the female member (32).
US07748762B2

A console and armrest assembly for a vehicle includes a console base defining a first storage area and a first storage opening for providing access to the first storage area. A first intermediate member is configured to selectively close the first storage area opening. The first intermediate member defines a second storage area in a second storage area opening for providing access to the second storage area. A second intermediate member is configured to selectively close the second storage area opening. The second intermediate member defines a third storage area and a third storage area opening for providing access to the third storage area. An armrest cover is configured to selectively close the third storage area opening.
US07748760B2

A work holding mechanism for horizontally holding a flat work is incorporated in work transport equipment. The holding mechanism includes a base member for supporting the work and a plurality of guide members provided at the base member. Each guide member includes a shaft, a contact portion and a limit portion. The shaft is pivotally supported by the base member. The contact portion comes into contact with part of the lower surface of the perimeter of the work and is pushed down, with the shaft as a fulcrum, when the work is placed on the base member. The limit portion is raised, with the shaft as a fulcrum, to face part of the side surface of the perimeter of the work when the contact portion is lowered.
US07748758B2

A cylinder lock includes a latch retractor housing having inner and outer cover plates, inner and outer drive spindles extending respectively through the inner and outer cover plates, a sleeve surrounding the outer drive spindle and having a flange contacting the outer cover plate, an outer shell surrounding the inner drive spindle and the latch retractor housing, and at least one rigid coupling member or tube disposed within the outer shell and engaging and coupling together the inner and outer cover plates and the flange, thereby reinforcing the outer drive spindle and the latch retractor housing and increasing torsional and compression strengths thereof. A reinforcing ring is further provided to couple the outer drive spindle to the outer handle for reinforcement.
US07748749B2

For connection of pipelines which are subject to vibration, for example pipelines in vehicle exhaust systems, a liquid-tight decoupling element is used which includes a, e.g. multi-layer wound, metal hose and a tube accommodated in coaxial relationship inside or outside of the metal hose. A first axial fitting firmly secures one end of the tube. The tube is sized to protrude into a second axial fitting, regardless whether the metal hose is completely compressed or completely stretched, to allow movement of the tube in axial and torsional directions in relation to the second axial fitting.
US07748747B2

The invention concerns an individualized security document (1) and a method of individualizing a security document. The individualized security document (1) has a number of pages (12 to 15) which are connected together by means of stitching or adhesive. In addition integrated into the security document by means of stitching and adhesive is a single-layer or multi-layer film body (2) which is provided with an individualized optical security element and which is folded in the region of the stitching or adhesive. The fold divides the film body (2) into a first part (21) on which the individualized optical security element is arranged and a second, preferably flap-shaped part (22) which is permanently connected to a plastic body having at least one machine-readable security element, wherein the at least one machine-readable security element has an electronic circuit for RF identification.
US07748744B2

A seat belt apparatus including a seat belt through anchor including a hanging shaft that a seat belt withdrawn from a retractor is hung on. The seat belt anchor also includes an anchor base that supports both ends of the hanging shaft. The anchor base includes a shaft non-rotatably supported by the anchor base at both ends and a tube body rotatably attached outside the shaft. The seat belt through anchor additionally includes a stopping mechanism for preventing rotation of the hanging shaft when a pressing force of a predetermined magnitude or more is applied to the tube body from the seat belt.
US07748743B2

In a method of making a structural or chassis component for a motor vehicle, a blank is provided with at least one material supply in an outer region at a distance to the outer edge to serve as material reserve. The blank is placed in a press tool for shaping the blank into a structural or chassis component by displacing the material supply in a direction of the outer edge and pressing the outer region of the blank against a buttress of the press tool to thereby form the outer region in a recess of the press tool to produce bead.
US07748740B2

A volume-filling mechanical structure includes an air bag cushion, an inflator configured to inflate the air bag cushion, and a celled material expandable from a dormant state to a deployed state. The celled material is operably coupled to the air bag cushion and a vehicle structure, wherein deployment of the air bag cushion causes deployment of the celled material from the dormant state to the deployed state.
US07748738B2

An airbag cushion is disclosed for use in automotive protective systems. The airbag cushion includes a diffuser tethered to the membrane of the cushion. The airbag cushion partially expands when an obstruction is encountered and fully expands when no obstruction is encountered. The tethered diffuser is controlled by expansion of the cushion. This permits the cushion to vary the amount of gas vented from the cushion to adjust for out-of-position conditions and normal restraint conditions.
US07748731B2

In an airbag device, a decorative member is prevented from being scattered with a simple structure at the time of expansion of an airbag. That is, a concave part of the airbag cover (50) on which the decorative member is mounted is connected to an unmoved connection member while freely separable from other portions at the time of expansion of an airbag. To that end, there are formed, on the inner faces of the airbag cover (50), a circular tear line Lc for partitioning the concave part (52) and a plurality of tear lines L1˜4 extending outward from the tear line Lc in the radial direction thereof for forming each of opening pieces (50a). Further, attachment pieces (50b) of respective opening pieces (50a) are fastened to plastic deformable attachment parts of a base plate by screws. With this structure, the concave part of the airbag cover can be immovably held at the time of spread of the airbag.
US07748722B2

A footboard for play, exercise and practice of aerial maneuvers and recreational moves on a jumping device. The footboard is preferably flexible in a variety of directions, but has sufficient firmness so as to allow the board to retain a desired shape. The footboard is attached to the user's feet by a strap system, which holds the user's feet within recesses in the board itself. The footboard is preferably waterproof or water resistant for use on water trampolines, in lakes and swimming pools. Handgrips may be provided at one or more locations of the footboard, which, combined with the flexibility of the board, enhance the moves and style of the practicing foot boarder.
US07748721B2

A supplemental torsion suspension system for a vehicle having primary suspension system is provided along with a method of use thereof. The supplemental system has a rotateable torsion bar and a lever arm extending from the torsion bar for engagement with a control member of the primary suspension system. An actuator is coupled to the torsion bar and is operative to impart selective rotational movement to the torsion bar and the lever arm. A corresponding application of an applied adjustment force is imparted on the member of the primary suspension system through the lever arm of the supplemental suspension system to move and/or maintain the vehicle at a desired ride height.
US07748718B2

An expandable mandrel for holding a part has a shank with inclined radial slots slidably engaged by keys. The keys are coordinated by a collar which engages an extension on each key. A platen affixes to the shank of the mandrel to provide a stop that will index the position of a part mounted onto the mandrel. The platen has radial key passages to allow longitudinal movement of the keys in the slots. The platen preferably has resilient indexing nubs to engage the part. Preferably, the position of the platen on the mandrel can be adjusted by a set screw engaging one of several indexing holes or engaging a longitudinal guide track. For machining in a wet environment, the slots can be provided with longitudinal rails and the keys provided with transverse channels to remove liquid from between the keys and the slots.
US07748711B2

An image forming apparatus includes a first sheet conveying passage that conveys a sheet through an image forming section. A sheet-discharging roller is on an outlet side of the first sheet conveying passage and can rotate in opposite directions. A second sheet conveying passage has an inlet connected to the first sheet conveying passage downstream from the image forming section and an outlet connected to the first sheet conveying passage upstream from the image forming section. A controller controls double-sided printing by causing the sheet-discharging roller to rotate forward to advance the sheet outside the sheet-discharging roller, and then to rotate in reverse to execute a switchback for transporting the sheet to the inlet side of the second sheet conveying passage and then to return the sheet to the upstream of the image forming section. An assisting mechanism adjusts a posture of the sheet to assist the switchback.
US07748701B2

A method and an arrangement for feeding out end sheets from a stack of sheets comprises that a driver acting against the end sheet of the stack (1) first displaces the end sheet in the plane thereof toward a support for elastic bulging of the end sheet, and then displaces the buckled end sheet away from the support, to a separating arrangement for the separation of sheets that unintentionally are accompanying the end sheet (21) fed out. The driver being carried by a spring arrangement, which offers an increasing support force to the driver upon the advancement of the stack by means of a pusher acting against the rear end of the stack. A sensor detects the displacement position of the driver, and activates the driver for a sheet-outfeed operation when the distance sensor detects a displacement position of the driver corresponding to a predetermined abutment force of the driver against the end sheet. Between the sheet-outfeed operations, the pusher is unloaded.
US07748687B2

A fragrance disperser in one form includes a single fan that passes air over a wicked single or double fragrance. A second form has the fan reversible to provide two different airstreams that evaporate respective different fragrances one after the other. Where two fragrances are provided, the evaporation may be by respective electrical heaters. A fragrance source may be formed by two sheets joined together to form two chambers each receiving a respective wick and having respective exposed wick portions. The source may incorporate a source of electrical power. An alternative source has a reservoir for fragrance and a wick located in an air passage forming part of the source so that an air flow is guided through the passage past the wick to evaporate fragrance. Where two fragrances are provided, the fragrance sources may be located side-by-side and matching fragrances may have, for example, matching indicia on the sources so that the match can be easily determined visually.
US07748684B2

The invention has been made to provide a flow control valve capable of preventing adhesion between a fixed core and a movable core and increasing an attractive force, so that flow control can be performed with high accuracy. In a flow control valve 10, a first fixed core 23a is fixed in an upper part of a coil bobbin 21, a second fixed core 23b is fixed in a lower part of the coil bobbin 21, and the movable core 24 is formed at its lower end with a flange 24a having a diameter larger than an inner diameter of the coil bobbin 21. The movable core 24 is placed inside a cylindrical part 28a of the flared pipe 28 so that a distance D1 between the first fixed core 23a and the movable core 24 is larger than a distance D2 between the flange 24a and a disc part 28b of the flared pipe 28.
US07748678B2

A beverage container is provided for mounting to vehicles such as power boats, sailboats and recreational vehicles. The beverage container holder is adapted for mounting to support platforms on the vehicle which may be any suitable vehicle structure such as the armrest of a chair. The beverage container holder comprises a mounting ring which is first rigidly affixed to the support platform, and further comprises a cylindrical can having an upper circumferential rim which fits over the mounting ring and includes detents that positively lock the rim onto the mounting ring.
US07748669B2

An adjustable holding frame mainly includes a first bar, a second bar and an adjusting means. The second bar has one end fastened to a lump element which is pivotally located in the adjusting means. The adjusting means is mounted onto the first bar and has a helical structure to adjust the position of a seat in the adjusting means. Thereby releasing or fastening of the lump element of the second bar can be controlled to adjust the posture condition of the holding frame.
US07748668B2

An electronic device with an elevating mechanism includes a body and the elevating mechanism connected with the body. The elevating mechanism includes a support base, an elevating element, and a fastening element. The elevating element capable of moving between a first position and a second position relative to the support base is connected with both the support base and the body. The elevating element includes a first wedging component. The fastening element disposed around the second position relative to the support base is rotatable between a third position and a fourth position. The fastening element includes a second wedging component. When the fastening element is rotated to the fourth position, the second wedging component is wedged on the first wedging component for fastening the elevating element at the second position.
US07748667B1

A folding portable laptop computer stand mounts to the bottom of a laptop computer. In folded position, its sides and base parallel the bottom of the computer. The base is flat and sits on the lap of a user, or a desktop. When the sides are unfolded they extend from the base, lift the computer above a user's lap, tilt the keyboard for ease of use and provide space under the computer for a full size mouse pad or stylus drawing pad.
US07748666B2

The present invention pertains to extension arm apparatuses that are adapted to support user devices throughout a range of positions. A given apparatus may include one or more arms that position the user device remotely from a support position. An extension and retraction device such as a gas cylinder is received within each arm, and provides a force to support the user device as the arm is placed into a given position. A variable force clevis is connected to the extension/retraction device within the arm. The variable force clevis is connected to a pair of locations in the arm as well. As the arm moves, for instance up or down, the variable force clevis rotates within the arm and dynamically adjusts the force provided by the extension/retraction device. Thus, the arm may be positioned as desired, as such force adjustment stabilizes the arm.
US07748659B2

A wire tensioning arrangement is provided for applying tension in a wire supplied to a wire feeder. The wire tensioning arrangement includes first and second tensioning members positioned on a first axis to receive the wire therebetween. The first and second tensioning members are adapted to engage opposite sides of the wire at a location on the first axis to apply a tensioning force to the wire when the wire is pulled by the wire feeder in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first axis.
US07748658B2

A device is provided on a spinning preparation machine for receiving a sliver from a discharge device of the spinning preparation machine and transporting the sliver to a downstream machine, the spinning preparation machine having a depositing region. The device has a support for receiving the sliver deposited from the discharge device in the depositing region, and a moving device for moving the deposited sliver relative to the discharge device in the depositing region for forming a free standing sliver bundle, and for moving the free standing sliver bundle out of the depositing region for transport to a downstream machine.
US07748656B1

A paper shredder blade includes a pair of cylindrical hobs, and each hob includes a polygonal shaft sheathed with many differential blades, allowing the differential blades to be assembled alternately. Each differential blade has two secondary blades, and an inner side of each secondary blade contains many bumps surrounding an inner rim of the secondary blade to increase a thickness and an intensity of the blade. Two abutted secondary blades are formed into one set of differential blade by abutting the bumps with the bumps, to save more than a half of materials of the differential blade, and to reduce a weight correspondingly. A cut-off edge of each secondary blade contains a reinforcing rib, allowing the edge to be thicker than the cut-off edge of an ordinary paper shredder. Therefore, when cutting off paper, the paper will not be jammed easily and can be cut off easily.
US07748655B2

The invention provides a crusher block assembly for a particulate size reduction system including a crusher block having an inboard face configured and adapted to cooperate with a swing hammer in a crusher chamber of a particulate size reduction system to crush particulate, and an outboard face for receiving an adjustment mechanism. The crusher block assembly also includes an adjustment mechanism joined to the outboard face on the crusher block. The adjustment mechanism is configured and adapted to adjust the position of the crusher block along a direction between an inboard location and an outboard location within the crusher chamber. The invention also provides a method of adjusting clearance between a swing hammer and a crusher block in a particulate size reduction system.
US07748652B2

A material spreading drive system for a hopper spreader having a conveyor and a spreader separately driven by two electric motors that are powered directly from the electrical system of the vehicle. The conveyor drive system includes a speed reducing gearbox that can very efficiently transmit power received from the conveyor motor to the conveyor, thus reducing the demand on the electrical system. As a result, the electrical system is capable of also powering a second electric motor that drives the spreader. Due to the improved efficiency of the conveyor belt system, increased conveying and spreading speed are possible as well as independent control over the operating speeds of the conveyor and spreader.
US07748649B2

It is an object to provide a novel water discharging apparatus capable of rapidly enhancing an outer appearance and a cleaning property and enjoying a plurality of water discharging configurations.In order to achieve the object, the water discharging apparatus comprises a hot and cold water mixing portion including a housing to which a cold water supply tube and a hot water supply tube are connected respectively, and a hot and cold water generating portion provided in the housing and serving to mix cold water and hot water which are supplied from the cold water supply tube and the hot water supply tube, thereby generating hot and cold water, and a water discharging portion coupled to the hot and cold water mixing portion and serving to discharge the generated hot and cold water from at least one water discharging nozzle, wherein the housing of the hot and cold water mixing portion is formed longitudinally in a vertical direction and the water discharging portion is coupled to an upper part and/or a lower part of the housing.
US07748644B2

A fuel injector for an internal-combustion engine houses, in a hollow injector body of its own, an injection-control valve, the valve body of which delimits, together with the injector body, an annular chamber designed to receive a fuel under pressure, and insulated in a fluid-tight way by a seal member carried by the valve body and made of plastic material.
US07748642B1

A machine for constructing modular water spray configurations with one or more flexible modules containing one or more conduits, communication between one or more modules and of one or more other modules, structure to interconnect modules, and communication between at least one module and a water source.
US07748641B2

A linking device has a connecting member for connecting a first rotation member and a second rotation member. The connecting member is connected to the first rotation member at a first connecting point and to the second rotation member at a second connecting point. The connecting member includes a thermal deformation absorbing part between the first connecting point and the second connecting point, and is adapted to absorb a change of distance between the first connecting point and the second connecting point due to thermal deformation.
US07748628B2

A system, method and corresponding apparatus are provided for storing, retrieving and delivering unit dose blisters in their natural, raw state (i.e., without over-wrapping or repackaging). In particular, a plurality of unit dose blister mounts are configured to position a corresponding plurality of different types of unit dose blisters in a predetermined, repeatable orientation, so that they can be retrieved and delivered using, for example, an automated retrieval system. The storage apparatus (or unit dose blister mount) may include a cavity that is configured to receive a unit dose medication or medication cavity of the unit dose blister in such a way that the unit dose blister lies substantially flat in the horizontal plane, enabling any identification information displayed on the underside of the unit dose blister (i.e., the side opposite the unit dose medication, or medication cavity) to be viewed.
US07748627B2

A card-sized electronic data storage device including an addressable display assembly including a layer of electronic ink including a bi-stable non-volatile imaging material. The card-sized electronic data storage device includes an integrated circuit structure having a storage element for storing instructions, programs and data. The integrated circuit structure also includes a programmed processor in communication with the storage element. A signal receiving structure receives electromagnetic signals from an activation module, using the antenna structure. The card-sized electronic data storage device displays the determined graphical indicia on the addressable display assembly. The graphical indicia can represent information relating to many possible objects, including, for example, a financial account, a points-based account, a monetary account, a membership, a promotion service, a travel-related service account, a charge account, a credit account, a debit account, a bonus account, or an identification card.
US07748622B2

To improve upon existing ERP and other business logic handling system implementations, the claimed system and method provides direct customer access to functionality and data available in a merchant's business logic handling system. The claimed method and system includes installing functions of the business logic handling system at a portable computing device provided by the merchant or owned by a customer, and downloading data corresponding to functions installed at the portable computing device. The customer inputs requests to perform functions of the business logic handling system, and the functions are performed at the portable computing device and/or a system server, and the output of the function is displayed to the custom at the device.
US07748617B2

An electronic identification system comprising a system server and a plurality of mobile devices, the system server and the mobile devices being electronically connectable, where the system server contains references to a plurality of subscribers to the system. The system server receives an electronic request message from a remote location to verify an identity, where the request message contains a reference to the requesting remote location and a reference to an identity to be verified. The system server identified the received referenced identity with one of the plurality of mobile devices (the identified mobile platform), and the system server transmits a confirmation message to the identified mobile device, where the confirmation message contains a reference to the requesting remote location and the identity to be verified. The system server receives a verification message from the identified mobile device in response to the confirmation message, where the verification message contains an authorization to confirm/not confirm identification.
US07748616B2

A method for implementing an anonymous face to face or Mail Order Telephone Order credit card transaction by a user who has established a user account associated with a fictitious name. The user generates a valid personal charge number by executing an algorithm in a computer affixed to the electronic credit card that uses a user key and a card number as input variables. A merchant is provided with the valid personal charge number and the fictitious name that is submitted for approval to a credit approval center. The electronic credit card is sized such that a standard magnetic stripe reader can read it.
US07748612B2

A cash dispensing automated banking machine (10) includes a user interface (12) including an opening (20). Users of the machine deliver individual sheets and stacks of sheets to and from the machine through the opening. Stacks of sheets may include sheets such as notes, checks or other documents. Stacks input to the machine may include mixtures of various types of sheets. The machine operates to receive notes, process checks and perform other operations. Notes received in the machine may be recycled and dispensed to other users. Checks processed by the machine may be imaged by an imaging device, cancelled and stored in the machine or alternatively returned to a user.
US07748611B2

A cash dispensing automated banking machine (10) includes a user interface (12) including an opening (20). Users of the machine deliver individual sheets and stacks of sheets to and from the machine through the opening. Stacks of sheets may include sheets such as notes, checks or other documents. Stacks input to the machine may include mixtures of various types of sheets. The machine operates to receive notes, process checks and perform other operations. Notes received in the machine may be recycled and dispensed to other users. Checks processed by the machine may be imaged by an imaging device, cancelled and stored in the machine or alternatively returned to a user.
US07748606B2

An apparatus and method for enhancing the security of a cluster box unit which includes a protective enclosure, internal cabinetry, door, hinge and locking system. The cluster box unit may also include outgoing mail compartment doors that are heavily constructed and rigidly reinforced, with the locks carried thereon protectively shielded, and with the extensible bolts of these locks being engaged by brackets that not only lock the outgoing mail compartment doors but also the master loading doors of the cluster box units. The cluster box unit may also include master loading doors are provided with hinges that extend the full height of the doors—hinges that are defined by pivotally interfitting elements of extrusions that very sturdily mount the master loading doors, that prevent prying or bending the doors in the vicinities of their hinges. The interfitting elements of the hinge extrusions also permit the doors to be installed on their surrounding door frames quickly and easily, and permit one or both of the master loading doors to be quickly and easily removed for service or replacement when necessary.
US07748600B2

The invention provides a process for soldering in the vapor phase in which after the solder has melted onto the item to be soldered a vacuum is generated around the item to be soldered in the vapor phase. Also provided is a device for soldering in the vapor phase comprising a first chamber containing the vapor phase and, inside the first chamber within the vapor phase, a second chamber in which a vacuum can be generated and into which the item to be soldered can be introduced. A third chamber communicates with the first chamber to allow the item to be soldered to be transferred into the first chamber by means of a transporting system. The process and device according to the invention are advantageous in that they ensure soldered joints having a higher quality than those of the prior art.
US07748599B2

The invention provides a wire bonding method which enables formation of a low loop having a height not exceeding two times the wire diameter and secures sufficient pull strength of the wire even with the low loop shape. After having formed a contact-bonded ball at a first bonding point, a capillary moves upward and then toward a second bonding point to press a side surface of an upper portion of the contact-bonded ball, so that a protruded portion is formed on a top portion of the contact-bonded ball on the side of the second bonding point. After having formed the protruded portion of the contact-bonded ball, the capillary moves upward, and then downward while moving toward the second bonding point to press the protruded portion, so that a wire drawing portion for drawing the wire from the top portion of the contact-bonded ball horizontally is formed.
US07748598B2

A method for joining clad metal plates having a protective layer (27), e.g. titanium, and a substrate layer (28), e.g. carbon steel, includes firstly removing margins (29) of protective layer along edges of the clad metal plates to be joined. The substrate layers are then welded together to form an exposed substrate weld (31). Covering material (38) of the same type as the protective layer (27) is then located along the exposed substrate weld (31) to a level substantially flush with an outer surface of the protective layer (27). The substrate layer (28) is heated prior to welding the covering material so that the covering material is pre-stressed when cooled. The method may be used to fabricate reaction vessels having seams that do not stand proud of the remainder of the interior surface of the vessel. The low profile seams are less susceptible to erosion than has been the case in the past so that longer-life vessels can be produced. The invention encompasses vessels such as autoclaves, crucibles and reaction vessels formed of clad plate joined by the method.
US07748596B2

A welding method for manufacturing welded structures having excellent properties to prevent the propagation of brittle fracture occurring in welded joints, characterized by the step of forming a repair weld having a greater toughness than that of a butt weld and an outer edge whose angle φ with respect to the longitudinal direction of the butt weld is not less than 10 degrees and not more than 60 degrees, by applying repair welding to a region to arrest a brittle crack in a butt-welded joint where a brittle crack is likely to propagate after removing part of the butt-welded joint, in said region, by gouging or machining.
US07748583B1

Apparatus 10 for an article holder 26 having opposing pliable arms forming means 32 for attaching the holder to an article of clothing or mounting to a structure using the fastener mounting aperture 36. Depending from the closed distal end of the pliable arms is a cantilevered ring serving as the article holder 26 having a divergent tongue 28 extending therefrom adjacent to the pliable arms with one of the arms having a protrusion forming a support element 42 for the tongue terminus. Once an article, such as a handheld blow dryer 12, is placed therein, the tongue 28 directs the nozzle of the blower away from the user 14.
US07748579B1

A dispensing apparatus (10) includes a container unit (100) and a measuring unit (200) coupled to be angularly displaceable one relative to the other between at least open and closed positions. The container unit (100) includes a base (110) and a first partition (122) substantially enclosing a storage compartment (1100). The first partition (122) is formed with an access opening (1220) communicating with the storage compartment (1100). The measuring unit (200) includes a capsule (210) and a second partition (220) substantially enclosing a metering compartment (2100). The second partition (220) is formed with an access opening (2220) at least partially aligning with the access opening (1220) of the first partition (122) in the open position, whereby a predetermined quantity of material may be displaced into the metering compartment (2100) for subsequent dispensation.
US07748578B2

A pressure control device for maintaining a constant predetermined pressure in a container which is arranged for dispensing a fluid contained in the container from the container at said pressure, the pressure control device comprising a first chamber and a second chamber, as well as at least one closing member movable relative to the second chamber for releasing and closing a fluid connection between the first chamber and the container depending on the position of the closing member relative to the second chamber. The first chamber is filled with a gas which, in use, has a higher pressure than the pressure in the container. The second chamber is located outside the first chamber.
US07748573B2

A coupling mechanism for coupling a nozzle shield to a dispenser housing using interacting hook members and axle members. One of the hook members and axle members is carried by the housing. The member which is carried by the housing is preferably movable between a forward and a rear position as by being slidable relative to the housing and spring biased as to a rear position. In moving the cover from a closed position to a forward position, the hook member and axle member are in engagement with the member which is movable relative to the housing, preferably moved against the spring bias. For removal of the cover, with the cover approximate the closed position, the member which is carried by the housing is moved relative the housing against the spring bias to a forward position in which the hook member may be disengaged from the axle member.
US07748565B2

Described is an automatic dispensing apparatus for dispensing toothpaste. The dispensing apparatus comprises a housing having a front portion with a hole therethrough. The housing is capable of holding a tube of toothpaste. A sensor is attached with the housing. A spring is connectable with the housing for compressing the container of the viscous substance. A dispenser head is attached with the housing for attaching with the container of the viscous substance. Additionally, a motor is connected with the sensor and the dispenser head. Thus, a user can activate the sensor by placing an object proximate the sensor to activate the motor so that the motor rotates the dispenser head. In operation, the spring compresses the tube of toothpaste such that the toothpaste is pressed out of the container and through the dispenser head and the hole in the front portion of the housing to be dispensed upon a toothbrush.
US07748564B2

A transfer tool has a transfer tool main body including a case and a transfer head for applying tape. It also may include a cover housing a rotating shaft configured to engage the case and enable the cover to rotate about the rotating shaft such that the transfer head is exposed when the cover is in an open position and the transfer head is covered by the cover in a closed position. The transfer tool also may includes a latching structure for latching the cover and the transfer tool main body. The latching structure may be located proximate to the rotating shaft and may include complementary concave and convex portions housed on the transfer tool main body and the cover. The cover may be latched to the transfer tool main body in the open, closed and other predetermined positions.
US07748544B1

A wall organization rack with detachable, convertible hooks that may be used in garages, utility rooms, shops, retail establishments, residential basements, sheds, etc. The system comprises a horizontal crossbar support rack member and a plurality of different support hooks that engage a variety of objects. The support hooks comprise a specialized attachment end that allows the user to attach and remove the support hook from the crossbar by hand quickly and efficiently without the use of special tools. When attached, the support hook can withstand a substantial downward force. The user can change the support hooks as desired in order to space the hooks to efficiently accommodate each particular tool or group of tools, such as when new tools are purchased or replaced or stored during different seasons.
US07748542B2

Aspects of the invention include methods and apparatus for processing a batch of substrates. In one embodiment, a compressed substrate boat is configured to reduce pumping volume in a batch processing chamber. The compressed substrate boat comprises a stationary substrate boat and a movable substrate boat, each may be loaded/unloaded independently. The movable substrate boat and the stationary substrate boat may be interleaving with one another such that the distance between the substrates is reduced. In another embodiment, a substrate boat having removable substrate holder is configured to provide susceptors without dramatically increasing pumping volume. The removable substrate holder may be loaded/unloaded away from the substrate boat with susceptors. The removable substrate holder is engaged with the substrate boat such that substrates thereon are interleaving with the susceptors. Embodiments of the present invention reduces pumping volume and increases throughput, hence reduces cost of ownership during batch processing.
US07748540B2

A packing tool for packing large articles such as image forming apparatuses has a pallet to place the article, and an article-fixing member to secure the article to the pallet. The article-fixing member is accommodated in an accommodating section in the pallet. When securing the article to the pallet, the article-fixing member is pulled out and wound around the article.
US07748534B2

A package comprises an outer package (2) having two members (20, 21) connected to one another via a flexible web portion (22). Each member (20, 21) comprises a base panel (200, 210) and two opposite side wall panels (201, 202, 211, 212). One of the side wall panels (201, 211) has an attachment (204, 214) portion extending towards the opposite side wall panel (202, 212). An inner package comprises blister pack members (3) comprising an edge portion (304, 314) attached to the attachment portion (204,214) of the outer package member (20, 21) such, that in a closed state the goods carried by the blister pack member are facing towards the base panel (200,210). The members (20,21) are folded towards each other via the flexible web portion (22). In an open state the outer package members (20, 21) are unfolded and the members (3) can be accessed by folding the blister pack member (30, 31) away from the opposite side (202, 212) wall panel.
US07748528B2

A shipping system comprises an article of furniture and a packaging assembly. The packaging assembly includes a container and a protective insert. The container houses the article of furniture. The protective insert is disposed within the container and is positioned to help protect the article of furniture from damage. The protective insert has at least one convertible portion that is adapted to be removed from a surrounding portion of the protective insert, transition between a first configuration and a second configuration, and form at least a portion of an accessory product for the article of furniture when the convertible portion is in the second configuration.
US07748519B2

A vertical conveyor (1) is provided in a commissioning system for vertically conveying piece good-type conveying materials of a commissioning order from an upper transfer point (2) to a lower transfer point (3) of the commissioning system. The conveyor includes a vertically oriented receiving device which supports the conveying materials and is open towards the bottom. The receiving device is provided through which conveying material that has been accommodated in the open state falls down into a closest bottom vertically oriented receiving device and/or onto the lower transfer point (3). The receiving device is embodied in the form of a tray or shell between the transfer points (2, 3). The shell can be opened on the bottom side and encompasses two vertical tilting walls (9, 9′) that face each other and can be opened on the bottom side or two horizontal slides (25, 25′) which face each other and can be opened on the bottom side as an opening mouth. The two pivotable vertical tilting walls (9, 9′), whose swivel pins can be vertically adjusted in vertical guide rails (12, 13), or the two horizontal slides (25, 25′) are laterally guided in horizontal guide rails (11 or 26) in the area of the opening mouth of the tray (4, 4′) located on the bottom side.
US07748509B2

The inventive power supply system (1) comprises a ground placed power supply device (2) provided with at least one linear supply wire (7) connected to a voltage supply, a rail (6) comprising at least one zero reset conductor strip (8) and at least one protective profile in a flat L-shaped position profile masking the conductor wire. The system also comprises an on-board current sensing device (3) comprising at least one movable sensing subassembly (38) comprising a power sliding contactor (41) and a zero volts sliding contactor (42) which are electrically connected to the vehicle load circuits and used for slidingly contacting the supply wire and the zero reset conductor strip. The invention is useful for manufacturers of public transport vehicles and the lines therefor.
US07748507B2

A mechanical device including an elongated structural element provided for absorbing, at least in part, certain shocks by deformation. The structural element or piece has a selected right sectional profile, the profile being provided with localized alterations, shapes, and with selected respective positions for approximately satisfying a given law of deformation under the combined effort of compression in an axis of the piece and of the moment of the axis perpendicular to a plane passing through the axis. The law includes an energy absorption phase followed by a retraction of the piece.
US07748505B2

A brake pad with markings for different types of brakes is described. A passage or a recess is provided in the brake pad carrier of the brake pad, wherein a badge is inserted. The badge is made of a material which is less firm than the brake pad carrier, such that information can be placed thereon using a stamping method.
US07748496B2

An aerial work platform assembly is provided, comprising a platform shaft retaining assembly; a mounting bracket connected to the platform shaft retaining assembly; and a platform connected to the mounting bracket; wherein the platform shaft retaining assembly, mounting bracket, and platform are constructed from the same or differing composite materials comprising a fabric-reinforced resin. Optionally, the fabric-reinforced resin includes a preform fabric having a conformable three-dimensional weave, and the resin is a dielectric resin selected from either epoxy, epoxy vinyl ester, vinyl ester, polyester, or phenolic.
US07748494B2

An acoustic chamber as part of adapter for an appliance. The acoustic chamber is substantially enclosed except at the exterior surface, and is configured to interchangeably receive a plurality of different consumer electronic devices.
US07748488B2

The invention relates to a steering system for an agricultural or industrial utility vehicle, especially for a tractor. An electric drive (22, 24) is provided for each half of an axle, preferably a front axle (20), of the utility vehicle (10). Said electric drive can be driven by at least one wheel (26) associated with the each axle half. The electric drive (22, 24) can be controlled in such a manner that predetermined torque can be transmitted from the electric drive (22, 24) to the wheel (26) which is being driven. Preferably, the wheels (14) associated with a mechanical drive axle, particularly a rear axle (12) of the utility vehicle (10), can be driven by a mechanical drive (16, 18) of the utility vehicle (10). The invention also relates to a method for operating a steering system. The aim of the invention is to enable traction forces to be transmitted by wheels (26) driven by the electric drives (22, 24), even when the utility vehicle (10) negotiates bends, whereby particular braking torque should be prevented on said wheels (26) in specific steering angles. The torque which is to be transmitted to the wheel on the outside of the bend is greater that the torque which is to be transmitted to the wheel on the inside of the wheel in order to support or effect the steering of the utility vehicle.
US07748464B2

The current subject matter relates to compliant variable tension risers to connect deep-water subsea wellheads to a single floating platform in wet tree or dry try systems. The variable tension risers allow several subsea wellheads, in water depths from 1220 to 3050 meters, at lateral offsets from one-tenth to twice the depth or more, to tie back to a single floating platform. Also, the current subject matter relates to methods to counter buoyancy and install variable tension risers using a weighted chain ballast line.
US07748459B2

A pressure or flow responsive valve is provided in a hydraulic fracturing assembly so that if the formation sands out during proppant pumping and pressure in the bypass to the annulus around the work string rises, the bypass is closed by the valve to prevent overpressure of lower pressure rated components further uphole from the formation being treated. These components could be large casing or the blowout preventer assembly.
US07748456B2

Many methods and compositions are provided. One of the methods provided comprises the steps of: providing an aqueous treatment fluid that comprises a polysaccharide and a dual functional component, the aqueous treatment fluid having a first viscosity; allowing the dual functional component to interact with the polysaccharide such that the viscosity of the aqueous treatment fluid increases to a second viscosity, the second viscosity being greater than the first viscosity; placing the aqueous treatment fluid into a subterranean formation; and allowing the dual functional component to interact with the polysaccharide so as to reduce the second viscosity of the aqueous treatment fluid to a third viscosity, the third viscosity being less than the second viscosity. An example of a composition is a viscosified treatment fluid for treating subterranean formations comprising: an aqueous base fluid and an apparent cross linked reaction product of a polysaccharide and a dual functional component.
US07748450B2

A method and apparatus for automating control, remotely monitoring, and controlling a gas extraction assembly, coupled to a gas pipeline section. The gas extraction assembly may be used to increase gas volume, and/or overall gas flow from productive low or high pressure wells, as well as “wake-up” or recover lowered production from depleting wells. Two features of the gas extraction assembly of the present invention is the capability of creating substantial differential pressure, along with the ability to create substantial vacuum pressure on the suction inlet.
US07748449B2

A method of producing a well utilizes a submersible pump run on a line, such as braided wire rope, that includes power conductors. The operator sets a packer in the casing, the packer having a check valve and a tieback receptacle. The operator pressure tests the integrity of the casing above the packer, and if it passes, then runs the pump assembly on the line. The pump assembly has a shroud with a downward extending extension that seals to the passage of the packer. If the pressure test of the casing fails, the operator runs a liner into the well and engages the tieback receptacle. A smaller diameter pump is then lowered on a line into the liner and into engagement with the packer.
US07748441B2

A heating or air conditioning system is used for a motor vehicle. The heating or air conditioning system may have a housing which is composed of several housing segments. At least one housing segment may be embodied as an insertion part which is inserted into the remaining housing after the remaining housing is mounted in the motor vehicle. The insertion part may have at least one functional module.
US07748440B2

The present invention provides a thermal interface with a first and a second face that are in contact to each other by a thermal conducting material. A first face includes grooves that are at least partly filled with the thermal conducting material, wherein at least two types of grooves are arranged, namely first grooves having a larger width than second grooves. The first face comprises an array with protrusions that are confined by the second grooves, the array being divided by the first grooves into sub-arrays.
US07748439B2

A heat extractor to transfer heat generated by the coil of a magnetic read head to a substrate, when there is at least one thermally insulating layer between the coil and the substrate, is disclosed, together with a method for its manufacture.
US07748437B2

A heat exchanger including at least a first manifold and a second manifold connected by a bundle of horizontal tubes. An air flow circulates to be cooled by a cooling air flow. The bundle includes at least: a first portion including a first series of tubes with turbulators of passage section corresponding to the section; a second portion including a first series of tubes with no turbulators of passage section and a second series of tubes with turbulators of passage section corresponding to the section; and a distribution box of internal air flow to be cooled including a connection mechanism between the first portion and the second portion.
US07748434B2

A method and apparatus for casting metals in a DC mold to form an ingot or product having at least two layers formed by sequential solidification. The apparatus has at least one cooled divider wall at the entry end portion of the mold to divide the entry end portion into at least two feed chambers. Metal is fed to the chambers to form an inner layer and at least one outer layer. The divider wall has a metal-contacting surface for contacting the metal for the at least one outer layer, the surface being arranged at an angle to the vertical sloping away from the metal for the outer layer in a downward direction. The angle increases at positions on the divider wall spaced from a central section of the wall approaching each longitudinal end thereof. The apparatus is suitable for casting a metal having a high coefficient of contraction as an inner layer or core ingot, e.g. a high-Mg or high-Zn aluminum alloy, or metal combinations having a large difference in their coefficients of contraction.
US07748431B2

A vertically operating door and its drive system can be configured to push a door panel along a track to various overhead storage configurations including vertical, horizontal, inclined and coiled. Semi-flexible drive strips extend continuously along lateral edges of the curtain. The system includes a drive gear that engages a series of projections on at least one drive strip so that the gear can push the door between its open and closed positions. To protect the door from being damaged by collisions, the track can include a breakaway feature that allows at least a portion of the panel with its drive strip to separate from the track without permanent distortion. The drive strip and panel remain together as they break away from the track. The threshold of the breakaway force can be changed by selecting a retention strip from a plurality of interchangeable strips having different degrees of flexibility.
US07748430B1

A window covering includes a headrail, a retractable shading member having an upper end mounted on the headrail, a bottom rail having an upper end mounted on a lower end of the shading member, and a pull bar having an upper end removably mounted on a lower end of the bottom rail. Thus, the pull bar is combined with the bottom rail to drive the bottom rail to push the shading member upward or pull the shading member downward to fold or expand the shading member so that the window covering needs not to provide a lift cord to push or pull the shading member so as to provide a safety function. In addition, the pull bar can be detached from the bottom rail when not in use, thereby enhancing the aesthetic quality of the window covering.
US07748428B2

A device for placing suspended labels including a multiple-page information section onto a bottleneck. The device includes a bottle conveying device for conveying bottles into a work area, and an application device having a pair of essentially parallel cantilevers which define a horizontal distance therebetween and end in the work area. Each cantilever includes a supply unit for grasping one side of the suspended label and for supplying the suspended label, wherein the cantilevers define an open intermediate space therebetween and are arranged such that a bottle reaching the work area extends with its neck into the intermediate space. A stop is provided in the area of the supply units for straightening the information portion of the suspended label.
US07748420B2

A dadoing system that can be set up to cut multiple dados in a workpiece. The dadoing system uses a sliding channel clamp to keep the workpiece from moving in a transverse direction, while the dados are being cut into the workpiece. The sliding guide rails are used to put downward pressure on a workpiece while guiding a router across the workpiece during the dadoing process. Once the system is set up to cut the dados in the desired locations on the workpiece, the sliding guide rail stops can be secured into place. The stops will insure that the sliding guide rails are set up in the same place thus allowing multiple workpieces to have matching dados that line up properly during assembly.
US07748418B2

A wheeled, fuel hose lift tool adapted to lift successive sections of a fuel hose to drain residual fuel from the hose as a user moves along the extended direction of the fuel hose. The tool includes a hose support wheel, an elongate, adjustable tube and a handle.
US07748411B2

The present invention is a plug system having a plug for insertion into a pipeline, wherein the plug system is insertable via a fitting attached to the pipeline. A pre-drilled aperture of the pipeline positioned normal to the cylindrically-shaped pipeline may interfere with a pig traveling through the pipeline. In one embodiment, the plug includes two coaxial cylindrical portions. A first cylindrical portion has a diameter greater than the aperture diameter, while the second cylindrical portion has a diameter less than the aperture diameter. Additionally the plug defines a hole that is oriented perpendicular to an axis of the cylindrical portions, wherein the diameter of the hole is approximately the size of inside diameter of the pipe. The plug has a retaining member to stabilize the plug system. When the plug is installed in the pipe it permit a pig to flow freely, thereby eliminating pigging hazards.
US07748407B2

A compressed gas regulator of a piston type is disclosed in which a regulator is configured with an input valve situated entirely inside a compressed air canister, which regulator is then attached to a paintball gun, marker or other device for providing discrete charges of gas at a predetermined pressure to the attached device. The overall size and weight of the regulator are minimized, which allows increased capabilities to the user. A regulator overpressurization port vents behind a conventional safety gauge for safety purposes. Fill, gage, and canister overpressurization rupture ports are interconnected with a fill channel that extends from the canister to the ports without intersecting or interfering with the regulating components within the regulator. The input valve seat face is surrounded by a shallow generally conical surface within an input plenum. The shallow generally conical surface extends at approximately 5 to 15 degrees.
US07748405B2

A valve system including a number of shape memory alloy (“SMA”)-actuated valves for controlling the flow of fluids is disclosed as is a variety of types of SMA-actuated valves and methods of operation. In one embodiment, a valve system includes a housing having a substantially closed cavity as well as a second port for communicating a fluid. Further, the valve system includes a first SMA actuator configured to control the position of the first seal to vary fluid flow through the firs port, and a first temperature compensator for adjusting the position of the seal by an amount proportional to temperature. A second SMA-actuated valve, driven by either a unidirectional or a bidirectional SMA actuator, controls the position of the second seal to vary fluid flow through the second port, and a second temperature compensator for adjusting the position of the second seal by another amount proportional to temperature.
US07748401B2

A gas pressure regulator comprises a main body having a first, gas inlet pipe and a second, gas outlet pipe, a calibrated gas passage through which gas flows from the first pipe to the second pipe, a shutter housed at least partially in the main body and mobile lengthwise along a first defined line to adjust the opening of the calibrated passage, a device for actuating the shutter and a regulator spring unit opposing the movement of the shutter.
US07748400B2

Embodiments are related to ampoule assemblies containing bypass lines and valves. In one embodiment, ampoule assembly is provided which includes inlet and outlet lines coupled with and in fluid communication to an ampoule body, a bypass line connected between the inlet and outlet lines and containing a bypass valve disposed therein. The ampoule assembly further contains a shut-off valve disposed in the inlet line between the ampoule body and a connection point of the bypass line and the inlet line, a shut-off valve disposed in the outlet line between the ampoule body and a connection point of the bypass line and the outlet line, another shut-off valve disposed in the inlet line between the ampoule body and a disconnect fitting disposed on the inlet line, and another shut-off valve disposed in the outlet line between the ampoule body and a disconnect fitting disposed on the outlet line.
US07748397B2

An assembly of two components configured to be in contact with hydrocarbons, and a fuel tank including the assembly. The assembly includes a casing or a retaining member fastened to the casing, each of the two components including at least one fastening part configured to interact, and at least one of the components being made from a material configured to swell through action of the hydrocarbons, thus reinforcing retention of the components on one another. A method for manufacturing such a tank includes assembling the two components in the absence of fuel, and then bringing the two components into contact with the fuel.
US07748391B2

A comb is described having two sets of opposing tines that are connected together by way a biasing hinge. The comb is utilized in styling hair and, in particular, to lift short hair vertically upwardly.
US07748386B2

In certain embodiments, an apparatus for treating a breathing condition includes a body, a threaded member, a hook, and a receiver. The body comprises a front stop, a rear stop, and a guide extending between the stops. The threaded member couples between the stops and rotates relative to the body. The hook couples to the guide, comprises a threaded passage and an arm that engages a lower arch, and travels in a forward direction along the guide to adjust the position of the lower arch. The receiver couples to the lower arch and comprises a shelf that engages the arm of the hook. The apparatus may include an extender coupled to the receiver and providing a shelf that is more rearward than the shelf of the receiver. The apparatus may include a post that couples the apparatus to another device. In certain embodiments, a removable receiver, which may be one of a plurality of removable receivers with different dimensions, is removably positioned within a recess in a posterior surface of a lower arch and is engaged by a connector of an upper arch to define the relative positions of the arches.
US07748378B2

The present invention relates to a novel design for a metering valve that provides improved consistency of formulation delivery. Generally, the metering valve includes (a) a valve stem that generally defines a longitudinal axis and includes a body portion having a metering surface, wherein the longitudinal axis and a plane tangential to at least a portion of the metering surface define an angle from about 2° to about 90°; and (b) a valve body having an internal chamber defined at least in part by the body wall and includes a metering portion configured to substantially conform to the metering surface of the valve stem.
US07748373B2

An apparatus for machining an article (L) in the form of a slab or the like comprises—in addition to a rotary tool (24) associated with a spindle (22)—a nozzle (26) ejecting water at very high pressure. Both the rotary tool and the nozzle are supported by a carriage (20) sliding along a beam (18) in turn sliding along two shoulders (14) in a perpendicular direction. In the working area (12) and above a tank (30) normally filled with water, the article (L) is supported in a horizontal position not only by an interchangeable grid (32; 52), but preferably also by a disposable support (34) which prevent the rotary tool (24) from coming into contact with the grid. The disposable support is periodically replaced.
US07748368B2

A launcher for a flying cylinder has a elongated guide member to which a base is slidably coupled. In preferred aspects, a pair of resilient elements is coupled at respective first portions to one end of the guide member while respective second portions are coupled to the base. Most preferably, coupling is performed via cutouts in the guide element and the base to permit simple replacement of the resilient elements.
US07748363B2

Internal combustion engine with variable actuation of the valves providing electronic control means which, when the engine is subject to an operating variation request from a first operating condition to a second operating condition, are adapted to select a cylinder to which to assign said second operating condition based on a determined programming delay only as a function of the engine speed.
US07748348B2

A collapsible animal litter pan has polymeric surfaces that are immune to urine soaking. A plurality of hinges collapse and expand the litter pan. The litter pan has sidewalls that locate, receive and stabilize a urine absorption sheet. The urine absorption sheet has a liquid impervious bottom layer, a urine absorption layer composed of cotton, cellulose fluff pulp, commuted pulp, soft wood fine chips, or hydrophilic paper and combinations thereof, together with superabsorbent polymers and a top, liquid permeable, layer. The top and bottom layers are bonded to constrain the urine absorbent layer. An adhesive coating is applied to the bottom layer of the urine absorption sheet for temporarily adhering the sheet to the foldable litter pan for enhanced stability of the urine absorption sheet. Animal urine is substantially completely absorbed by the urine absorbent sheet, and the soiled sheet replaced with a fresh sheet without soiling the litter pan.
US07748347B2

A hummingbird feeder includes a solar panel power source for illuminating a reservoir of liquid hummingbird food so that the hummingbird can find it at night. The solar panel itself preferably hangs below the feeder in a flexible manner so that it can collect the maximum amount of sunlight and swing in the breeze. An LED attached to the solar power source is positioned to illuminate the liquid reservoir from within the reservoir. The parts that comprise the feeder are easily disassembled for washing and cleaning.
US07748341B2

An apparatus for coating the surface of a lens includes a carousel having a central hub and a plurality of arms. A drive shaft is mounted to each arm, with a magnetic clutch and a lens holder being operatively attached to the drive shaft. The carousel is configured to be raised, rotated, and lowered into a series of workstations for processing the lens in a predetermined sequence. A workstation has associated therewith a spin drive attached to a reciprocating arm assembly. The spin drive includes a magnetic clutch which may be coupled to the magnetic clutch of any one of the arms on the carousel, such that a rotation generated by the spin drive is transferred to the drive shaft, and the lens holder. The arm assembly is capable of being extended and retracted to selectively engage and disengage the carousel.
US07748338B2

A method for intercepting and yawing an errant sailing vessel is disclosed, wherein the vessel might have been hijacked or malfunctioned and in danger of colliding with an object. The method comprises dispatching a pair of watercraft to approach said sailing vessel, providing a tow rope to be secured at one end to first watercraft and the other end to second watercraft. The tow rope is brought to extend between the first and second watercrafts over the hull of said sailing vessel. The first watercraft is then secured to one side of said sailing vessel's hull, while second watercraft pulls the tow rope away from the direction of sailing on the other side of said vessel's hull. In an alternative embodiment, the tow rope end held by the first watercraft may be secured directly to the vessel's hull, thus freeing the first watercraft to evacuate crew from the vessel to a safer distance.
US07748321B2

The invention concerns a process for producing a high-resolution surface pattern on a substrate and a multi-layer body produced by means of that process and an apparatus for carrying out the process. A printing substance is applied in pattern form to the substrate by means of a printing process. For fine structuring of the surface pattern, prior to application of the printing substance, a microscopic surface structure with a plurality of grooves is replicated into the surface of the substrate. The fine structuring of the surface pattern is determined by the respective locally applied application amount of printing substance and the respective local relief parameters of the microscopic surface structure in particular orientation direction and profile shape.
US07748319B2

This printing plate (6) for a rotary press includes a head (22) for fastening to an impression cylinder, and a tail (24) for fastening to the impression cylinder.The fastening head (22) includes a holding projection (28) suitable for mating with an element (34) for holding the impression cylinder.
US07748310B2

Apparatus and method for securing a cylinder liner to a pumping module. A first part of an assembly housing pistons is fastened to a pumping module and a second part of the assembly is brought against the first so that the pistons act on tensioning plates which each have a stud rod extending therefrom through the assembly at an end distal to the pumping module. Each rod has a first portion substantially surrounded in an elastomeric member and a second portion threaded to receive a nut. The rods are passed through a clamping ring on the cylinder liner and the nut is attached to the rod. Actuating the pistons causes initial compression of the elastomeric member by the tension plate and allows tightening of the nut toward the pumping module. Release of the pistons then causes expansion of the elastomeric member to forcibly compel the cylinder liner towards the pumping module.
US07748305B2

The present invention is a handheld apparatus which slices the white portion of a boiled egg in a manner allowing the egg to then be processed into and used as a deviled egg. Specifically, the apparatus slices the egg white by mating two cutting edges, each having a mating concave portion, slidably engaged to move in a vertical direction toward each other thereby slicing the egg white lengthwise into two equal halves while the egg yolk remains stationary in the concave portion and is not sliced.
US07748301B2

A machine-tool turret-type unit includes a turret disk that is free to rotate about a rotational axis, and a housing on which to mount the turret disk is provided. The housing includes at least one securing device to be secured to the securing section of the machine tool. The securing device includes at least one securing surface to rest against the securing section of the machine tool. The rotational axis lies within a first plane defined by the securing surface(s).
US07748292B2

A bearing system can reduce the relative velocity between a bearing member and a rotation shaft and a rotating member to decrease a load on the bearing member although the rotation shaft and the rotating member rotate in opposite directions with the bearing member therebetween. The bearing system includes a case and a rotation shaft supported by the case. A rotating member is disposed coaxially outside the rotation shaft and rotates in the direction opposite to that of the rotation shaft. A housing is interposed between the rotation shaft and the rotating member and is fixed to the case. A bearing member that rotatably supports the rotating member is interposed between the housing and the rotating member.
US07748291B2

The lever (11) is fitted with two rollers (20A, 20B) which are supported by a core (21) provided with a mounting bore (21B) on an articulated shaft, wherein the rollers (20A, 20B) are both mounted between two webs of a pair of webs which are added to the core (21). The webs (22A, 23B) are on the whole planar. A first web (22A) of each pair of webs is partially engaged in a hollow housing (21C) created on the lateral surface (21D) of the core (21). The second web (23B) of the same pair is maintained at a distance from the first web. The hollow housings (21C) are created on the two opposite lateral surfaces (21D) of the core (21) of the lever (11).
US07748286B2

A multiple speed power transmission comprises: an input; an output; first and second input shafts releasably coupled to the input by first and second friction clutches, respectively; a countershaft disposed parallel to the first and second input shafts; an output pinion fixed to the countershaft; an output ring gear fixed to the output and meshing with the output pinion; an intermediate shaft disposed coaxially with the countershaft; a first input pinion fixed to the first input shaft and meshing with a first gear fixed to the intermediate shaft; a second input pinion fixed to the second input shaft; a second gear disposed coaxially with the intermediate shaft; an idler gear meshing with the second input pinion and the second gear; a first coupler for releasably coupling the first countershaft to the intermediate shaft; and a second coupler for releasably coupling the intermediate shaft to the second gear.
US07748283B2

The field of the present invention pertains to a controlled transfer biological collection device using a dry solid storage and transfer medium and a method for the collection of biological material of interest (genetic or proteinaceous material) in a form suitable for storage and/or subsequent analysis. Specifically, the present invention provides for a sampling device that controls the transfer of the biological sample to the storage medium by holding the storage medium and a moveable sample collection member having an analyte collection surface. The invention further provides for a method not only for storing a biological analyte on this collection device but also for analyzing the stored biological analyte using methods that are suited for automated analyzing systems.
US07748279B2

A method of allocating hydraulic fluid between actuators in a machine accepts a first command to provide a first requested fluid flow to a first actuator, wherein the first actuator is a bounded actuator such as a steering actuator, and a second command to provide a second requested fluid flow to a second actuator. The system adjusts the first and second commands to produce adjusted first and second commands corresponding to adjusted first and second fluid flows, such that the sum of the adjusted first and second fluid flows is less than or equal to a maximum available flow and the adjusted first fluid flow meets or exceeds the lesser of the first requested fluid flow and a threshold curve that is a function of engine speed or other variable.
US07748277B2

An exemplary pressure cavity is disclosed that is durable, stable, and biocompatible and configured in such a way that it constitutes pico to nanoliter-scale volume. The exemplary pressure cavity is hermetically sealed from the exterior environment while maintaining the ability to communicate with other devices. Micromachined, hermetically-sealed sensors are configured to receive power and return information through direct electrical contact with external electronics. The pressure cavity and sensor components disposed therein are hermetically sealed from ambient pressure in order to reduce drift and instability within the sensor. The sensor is designed for harsh and biological environments, e.g., intracorporeal implantation and in vivo use. Additionally, novel manufacturing methods are employed to construct the sensors.
US07748268B2

A thermal mass flow controller or mass flow meter having a novel sensor housing that reduces heat conduction from the housing mounting plate or base to the sensor itself. The housing also greatly minimizes the thermal gradient that can result from the uneven application of heat to the housing base. This reduction is accomplished in part by the use of one or more thermal isolation slots to isolate the upper portion of the housing (which holds the sensor) from the lower portion of the housing. Heat transfer to the sensor housing is also minimized by raising the middle portion of the bottom of the housing so that thermal contact is made between the base and the housing only at the two ends of the housing.
US07748254B2

To test the integrity of packages—cups (11)—a package conveyor (14) is provided, on whose conveying run (17) the cups (11) are positioned at a distance from one another, specifically in a correct formation forming transverse rows (23). In order to form a sealed testing chamber (13) for a group of cups (11) to be tested, a covering hood (19) can be lowered from above onto the package conveyor (14). Together with the covering hood (19), the latter forms a sealed testing chamber (13). A vacuum is produced in the latter, with the consequence that the packages experience deformation, specifically the cups (11) experience deformation of a closure film. Non-sealed cups (11) are identified and separated out.
US07748250B2

A three-axial acceleration sensor inspection device is provided for inspecting a three-axial acceleration sensor that detects acceleration components in three axes crossing perpendicularly with each other and outputs acceleration component signals. The three-axial acceleration sensor inspection device includes a test plate for mounting the three-axial acceleration sensor thereon; a supporting plate for supporting and rotating the test plate; a main rotational shaft for rotating the supporting plate. The supporting plate is arranged radially around the main rotational shaft along a radius direction of the main rotational shaft, and is disposed at each of at least four locations with an equal angular interval along a circumferential direction of the main rotational shaft.
US07748247B2

A method regulating flatness of a metal strip at a roll housing output including at least one dynamic flatness actuator. A rolling process characterizes flatness of the strip by measuring a quantity D in n points distributed across the strip width, from n measurements of the quantity D. Then, using an action model of flatness regulation and an optimizing method, an overall setpoint including at least one elementary setpoint is determined for the dynamic actuator, such that a calculated flatness residual defect criterion is minimal, and executing the overall setpoint. The action model on the flatness used for determining the overall setpoint includes, for the dynamic actuator, as many submodels as there are points for measuring the quantity D characteristic of flatness, each submodel enabling the effect of the dynamic actuator on the quantity D to be calculated at the corresponding point when a setpoint is applied thereto.
US07748245B2

A latch assembly for releasably securing a first member in a closed position relative to a second member is disclosed. The latch assembly includes a frame, a rotary pawl, a locking member, a handle, and a lock plug. The frame is adapted for attachment to the first member. The handle is pivotally attached to the frame and is movable between a closed position and an open position. The locking member retains the pawl in the latched position when the locking member is in an undeflected configuration. The handle causes the locking member to deflect and release the pawl from a latched position when the locking member is in an unlocked position and the handle is moved to the open position. The lock barrel is supported by the frame and can selectively move the locking member to a locked position where the locking member cannot be actuated by the handle.
US07748244B2

A lock assembly for use with a bolt movable from a retracted position to an extended position. The lock assembly includes an exterior assembly and an interior assembly having an interior actuator manually operable to move the bolt between the retracted position and the extended position. The exterior assembly includes an exterior actuator manually operable to cause the bolt to move from the retracted position to the extended position and inoperable to move the bolt from the extended position to the retracted position.
US07748241B2

A tubular knit fabric is disclosed that is manufactured with a pile extending from the outer side thereof and in an extended length, small diameter configuration, the tubular knit pile fabric subsequently being separable into shorter tubular segments that may be secured to paint roller cover cores to produce seamless paint rollers. The knit paint roller cover fabric of the present invention is manufactured in a tubular segment with cut pile segments extending from the outside of the tubular knit paint roller cover fabric. The tubular knit paint roller cover fabric of the present invention is also manufactured in a size that makes it appropriate for installation onto paint roller cover cores.
US07748224B2

A temperature sensing assembly for monitoring a temperature of a pipe in a system. The temperature sensing assembly includes an insulator body having a first end, a second end, an outer surface, and an inner surface. The outer and inner surfaces extend between the first and second ends. The inner surface is configured to receive a portion of the pipe. A temperature sensor is disposed adjacent the inner surface and is configured to directly contact the pipe when the pipe is received by the inner surface.
US07748221B2

A combustor heat shield has a body with heat exchange promoting protuberances extending from a back face thereof. The density of protuberances is less in hot spot regions than in other heat shield regions which require less cooling.
US07748213B2

An exhaust gas passageway of an internal combustion engine is basically provided with a main exhaust passageway, a bypass exhaust passageway, a bypass catalytic converter provided in the bypass exhaust passageway, a bypass control valve, an upstream air-fuel ratio sensor and a downstream air-fuel ratio sensor. The bypass exhaust passageway bypasses a portion of the main exhaust passageway between an upstream junction and a downstream junction. The bypass control valve opens or closes a portion of the main exhaust passageway. The upstream air-fuel ratio sensor is disposed upstream of the bypass catalytic converter to sense air-fuel ratio of an exhaust gas flowing into the bypass catalytic converter. The downstream air-fuel ratio sensor is disposed downstream of the bypass catalytic converter to sense air-fuel ratio of the exhaust gas flowing out of the bypass catalytic converter.
US07748211B2

An engine cooling system includes a combustion chamber assembly configured to generate detonation waves and a first vapor cooling assembly. The combustion chamber assembly defines a flowpath between an inner liner and an outer liner. The first vapor cooling assembly includes a vaporization section located adjacent to the flowpath and a condenser section spaced from the flowpath, and is configured to transport thermal energy from the vaporization section to the condenser section through cyclical evaporation and condensation of a working medium sealed within the first vapor cooling assembly.
US07748207B2

Yarn draw-off device for a textile machine producing cross-wound bobbins with a yarn draw-off roller that can be driven by a single motor and an associated pressure roller which is driven via frictional engagement, characterised in that the yarn draw-off roller (10) has a rotationally symmetrical basic member (15) with devices (33), which, during the rotation of the yarn draw-off roller (10) produce an air flow which cools the yarn draw-off roller drive (13).
US07748201B2

A form-and-seal unit for producing aseptic sealed packages from a tube of packaging material filled with a pourable food product. The unit comprises a fixed structure and two forming assemblies which interact alternately and cyclically with the tube of packaging material, and have respective pairs of jaws movable between an open position and a closed position in which they grip the packaging material tube between respective sealing means, and respective forming flaps selectable from different types of forming flaps for producing different types of packages, and having respective half shell forming portions which surround the tube of packaging material to determine the volume and shape of the packages. The approach movement of the forming flaps towards the packaging material tube is controlled by a fixed cam mechanism having different work profiles selectively engaged by cam-follower rollers of the forming flaps depending on the type of forming flaps used.
US07748197B2

A method and/or system is provided that compensates for the flow of air through fiberglass insulation. In certain example embodiments, a dynamic heat flow meter or the like is provided for measuring and/or determining any detrimental effects of air flow through insulation such as fiberglass insulation. Once the possible detrimental effects are recognized, an insulation system is adapted (e.g., by providing a foam based insulation in a wall cavity in addition to the fiberglass insulation) to compensate, or substantially compensate, for the effects of air flow through the fiberglass. For instance, a sufficient amount of foam insulation may be provided in a cavity adjacent fiberglass, where the foam blocks or substantially blocks air from flowing through the cavity, thereby compensating for the effects of air flow through fiberglass and permitting the intended R-value to be maintained or substantially maintained.
US07748186B2

A roof or wall panel system that includes a first panel having a first longitudinal seam a second panel having a second longitudinal seam, and a clip assembly that includes a vertical web or webs having a first exterior side and a second exterior side. The vertical web or webs and is/are provided between the first and second longitudinal seams. Also included is at least one spacer element that is provided between the first and second longitudinal seams. The at least one spacer element has at least one portion having a thickness that is greater than a distance between the first exterior side and the second exterior side of the vertical web or webs.
US07748179B2

The invention includes an end cover (32) for disposition over an end of a mantel (20). The end cover (32) presents a front corner (38) extending between an upper wall (34) and a lower wall (36) and is symmetrical rearwardly to a pair of side edges (42) from the front corner (38) whereby the end cover (32) may be disposed over either end of the mantel (20). The upper wall (34) of the end cover (32) extends between the front walls (44) and the side edges (42) and the lower wall (36) extends between the front walls (44) and the side edges (42). The upper wall (34) and the lower wall (36) each has the shape of a square with equal sides. The front walls (44) define interior surfaces complementary to the irregular pattern of the decorative face (24) of the mantel (20) and the end cover (32) overlies the mantel (20) the thickness of each front wall (44).
US07748176B2

A flooring system comprising a plurality of elongate members (1) secured together along adjacent longitudinal side edges by means of co-operating male and female formations (2, 3). The female formation (3) is a channel with relatively convergent sidewalls and the male formation comprises a hollow rail of complementary shape. An outer sidewall of the channel is resilient to allow the rail to be snapped into the channel in a direction transverse to the length of the members (1) and to return to its original shape to resist removal of the rail. The formations (2, 3) are arranged so that upper surfaces of adjacent members (1) form a panel having a planar support surface (21) and relative rotation of the members (1) about an axis parallel to the longitudinal side edges is resisted. Two panels may be joined together to provide upper and lower planar support surfaces (21, 22).
US07748159B1

A device for trapping flies which comprises an elongated housing. A mechanism is for mounting the housing horizontally on an inside lower portion of a window pane adjacent to a window sill. Another mechanism for holding flies is carried within said housing. The flies, when attracted to light coming through the window pane, will hit the window pane and drop down to stick to the holding mechanism. A cover on the housing is to conceal the flies stuck to the holding mechanism.
US07748157B1

A fishing jig has a first teardrop-shaped body portion with a generally flat bottom that is curved upwardly toward its peripheral edges. A second semi-hourglass-shaped rudder portion is attached to one end of the body portion by a necked-down region. A hook extends from an eyelet positioned at the center of gravity of the body portion out through the tail and curls over the centerline of the rudder portion. The jig has shown remarkable capacity to imitate the movement of a minnow in both the retrieval and settling directions.
US07748150B2

A bicycle is provided with an identification device. The identification device includes a base, an identity plate and two fasteners. The base is formed on the bicycle. The fasteners are used to attach the identity plate to the base so that the identity plate cannot be removed from the base.
US07748139B2

A laundry dryer includes a dry drum in which laundry is loaded, a lower housing coupled to a rear wall of the dry drum by a rivet, an upper housing seated on the upper housing, and a journal bearing including a bearing inserted between the upper and lower housings and a shaft coupled to the bearing.
US07748138B2

A substrate transfer mechanism for transferring a substrate includes a mounting table on which the substrate is mounted; an arm member connected to the mounting table and moving it. The substrate transfer mechanism further includes a temperature control unit for controlling temperature of the mounting table, wherein the temperature control unit forms a temperature gradient in the mounting table. The temperature control unit includes a detector for detecting temperature in an environment or a chamber in which the substrate transfer mechanism is installed a heater for heating the mounting table and a controller for controlling an operation of the heater based on the temperature in the environment or the chamber detected by the detector.
US07748130B2

A tool for qualitatively measuring a feature of a skate blade.
US07748126B2

The utility model relates to a kind of laser straight liner, including a foundation and a base, wherein said foundation is provided with batteries and said base is provided with at least one laser projection module. Said base and said foundation are connected in the way that is 360 degrees rotatable. One side of said foundation that faces said base is provided with the anode and cathode conduction rings that can connect batteries, and one side of said base that faces said foundation is provided with two contact pieces that can connect various laser projection modules and also can touch the anode and cathode conduction rings, thus realizing the conduction-wire-free connection between said laser projection modules and said batteries. This utility model makes said laser projection modules freely rotatable on said foundation, and thus the rotated angle during marking can be accurately controlled, ingenious and reasonable in design and convenient in operation. The lower-end transparent shell of cavity is provided with a cross scale, and the crossing point of said cross scale can be superposed with the intersection projection of the counter-extension lines of the laser beams emitted by various said laser projection modules, thus ensuring a accurate positioning.
US07748121B2

A razor blade and support assembly is provided which flexes in response to shaving forces near slots in the blade support. A razor cartridge includes one or more of the aforementioned razor blade and support assemblies positioned in a housing. The razor cartridge may be permanently or removably coupled to a handle to provide a shaving razor.
US07748120B2

A method for fabricating a door having a window, the door having a first door skin and a second door skin, the method including the following steps in the order named: forming a first door light opening perimeter having a first plurality of tabs arranged about the first door light opening perimeter, wherein the first door light opening perimeter defines a first door light portion; forming a second door light opening perimeter having a second plurality of tabs arranged about the second door light opening perimeter, wherein the second door light opening perimeter defines a second door light portion; positioning the first door skin on a first press; positioning an insert in aligned registration with the first plurality of tabs; positioning the second door skin over the insert, wherein the second plurality of tabs are in aligned registration with the insert, and the first door light opening perimeter is aligned with the second door light opening perimeter; applying pressure with the first press to secure the first and second door skins with the insert; injecting a foam into a first cavity formed between the first skin outside the first door light portion, the second door skin outside the second door light portion and the insert; and, removing the first and second door light portions.
US07748116B2

A method of creating an electrical contact involves locating a barrier material at a location for an electrical connection, providing an electrically conductive bonding metal on the barrier material, the electrically conductive bonding metal having a diffusive mobile component, the volume of barrier material and volume of diffusive mobile component being selected such that the barrier material volume is at least 20% of the volume of the combination of the barrier material volume and diffusive mobile component volume. An electrical connection has an electrically conductive bonding metal between two contacts, a barrier material to at least one side of the electrically conductive bonding metal, and an alloy, located at an interface between the barrier material and the electrically conductive bonding metal. The alloy includes at least some of the barrier material, at least some of the bonding metal, and a mobile material.
US07748115B2

A method of forming a circuit board, the method comprising mounting at least one passive component on a first surface of a first laminate material; interconnecting the passive component to contact traces and vias of the first laminate material; and attaching a second laminate material to the first surface of the first laminate material utilizing a lamination process, the second laminate material sheet having at least one of a recess, a through-hole or both formed therein for accommodating the passive component in the second laminate.
US07748107B2

A tool mount assembly includes drop down connections to aid in mounting of a tool to a moving base and a fail-safe tool mounting system for preventing installation of a tool in an undesired or incorrect manner. A plurality of tool mount rails are received within mounts and are uniquely tailored to assure proper placement of tools such as grippers or vacuum cups at desired locations specific to the application requirements.
US07748098B2

The present invention is for a method of testing a seal on a collapsible tube dispensing orifice during the manufacturing process in an assembly line. Air pressure is applied within the tube wall, at a station in the line, on one side of the seal, and the pressure is monitored on the other side of the seal within a reciprocating cover, for any increase in pressure which would indicate a leak in the seal.
US07748087B2

Clasp with unfolding buckle for wristlet, having: an inside blade (3), two outside blades (1) forming an articulated shank with the inside blade, two push-pieces (7) capable of being actuated transversely against the action of an elastic element (9) for unlocking the clasp, at least one stopping (11) connected removably to said push-piece (7) for limiting the amplitude of displacement of said push-piece along at least one axis.
US07748081B2

The invention has as its object an adjustable hinge, comprising at least one pivotable hinge plate provided with at least one through-opening, and comprising at least one alignment washer provided with at least one through-opening, which through-openings are provided for penetration by assembly means for mounting the hinge, wherein the alignment washer and hinge plate are adjustable relative to each other in the plane of the hinge plate, and wherein the alignment washer and/or hinge plate is provided with at least one protruding sharp-edged annular collar and/or a multitude of pointed raised areas having a higher degree of hardness than the mating surfaces contacting it of the other component cooperating with it, namely the alignment washer or the hinge plate. The advantage is that the alignment washer can be adjusted as desired, i.e., also rotated, relative to the hinge plate, and fixed in form-fitting engagement.
US07748079B2

A cyclone separator assembly comprises a cyclone separator that removes large particles of dirt from a working airstream as it flows through the cyclone separator, and the separated large particles of dirt are deposited into a dirt cup. The cyclone separator assembly further includes a fine particle separation member comprising a plurality of apertures for separating fine particles of dirt from air in the cyclone separator or the dirt cup.
US07748076B2

The invention starts with a wiper device, in particular for a motor vehicle, which includes a wiper arm (10a-10j), which features a wiper rod (12a-12j) and a fastening part (14a-14j) connected in a non-articulated manner with the wiper rod (12a-12j).It is proposed that the wiper device have at least one spoiler element (16a-16j) to generate a flow-induced bearing force.
US07748074B2

A window squeegee (1) for cleaning surfaces, such as skyscraper windows, comprises a handle (2) associated to a head (11) provided with a first connection element (12) and a second connection element (18) for connecting a spatula (46) to the handle (2). In a condition of normal use of the window squeegee, the spatula (46) is held between the first element (12) and the second element (18) and in a condition of replacement of the spatula, the second element (18) is rotated by the first element (12) to allow the replacement of the spatula (46) which is held associated to the head (11) of the window squeegee and is not free to remove, to ensure a safe replacement.
US07748070B2

An electric toothbrush having a handle, a head, and a neck extending between the handle and the head is disclosed. The handle has a hollow interior region having a motor and an electrical power source. The head includes an ultrasonic transducer and a bristle field. The ultrasonic transducer is in electrical communication with the electrical power source, and a shaft is operatively connected to the motor for moving the bristle field.
US07748069B2

Disclosed is an electric toothbrush for use with wireless devices. A pressure sensor coupled to a wireless transmitting device determines whether the electric toothbrush is being utilized correctly. When the toothbrush is utilized correctly, the wireless transmitter sends a signal to a receiving device which displays an appropriate output. When the toothbrush is not utilized correctly, the transmitter ceases transmitting a signal and the output from the receiver ceases to be displayed.
US07748064B2

The present invention relates to a resting support (10) for supporting portions of a resting person (1) in a forwards leaning seated position, and to a method of using such a support. The resting support (10) comprises at least one supporting section (9, 35) including a main supporting section (9) for supporting directly said seated resting person's upper torso (3) and head (9), and means for positioning and supporting said section(s) (9, 35) above the lap (6) of said person (1) including at least two legs (21, 22) that extend downwardly from one or more of said sections (9, 35), wherein: —the main supporting section (9) in use extends at an upwards sloping angle (27) from a lower region (28) for supporting said person's upper torso (3) towards an upper region for supporting said person's head (2); —said at least two legs include at least one rear leg (22) proximate said lower region (28) and at least one forwards leg (21) proximate said upper region, the rear leg(s) (22) being adapted for engaging with a seat (25) on which said person (1) is seated and the front leg(s) (21) being adapted for engaging with a floor (24) beneath said seat (25), said at least two legs (21, 22) being movable relative to said sections (9, 35) to enable the section(s) to fold flat with said legs when not in use.
US07748056B2

A garment which resists sliding of protective pads during use includes a fabric with high-friction areas. The high-friction areas include numerous gripping members made of a second material with high-friction and adapted to exert a frictional force on, for example, a protective pad.
US07748054B2

A protective over-garment is disclosed that can be manufactured entirely by making cuts in a single sheet of plastic or other flexible material. In preferred embodiments it is disposable. The sheet has a neck hole in the center and covers the user's shoulders, upper arms, back, and chest. A cut radiating from the hole allows insertion of the user's head. The rim of the hole is held against the wearer's neck by tying together two strips of material formed by cuts that partially separate them from the sheet. Similar strips can hold the first cut and/or the sides of the garment closed. In preferred embodiments the sheet can be rectangular, hourglass, or double-hourglass in shape, and/or the sheet can be folded to fit in a standard home hair coloring kit. Cuts can be perforated, and the garments can be manufactured as a continuous length of sheets joined at perforated intersections.
US07748053B1

A bullet-resistant back extender includes an armor carrier having an inner pocket with a bullet-resistant ballistic panel disposed within the inner pocket and an upper portion of the armor carrier having a fastener to attach the bullet-resistant back extender to a fastener in a bullet-resistant vest.
US07752664B1

An anti-spyware manager uses domain name service resolution queries to combat spyware. The anti-spyware manager maintains a list of domain names associated with spyware, monitors domain name service queries, and detects queries on domain names on the list. Responsive to detecting a domain name service query on a domain name associated with spyware, the anti-spyware manager forces the domain name service query to resolve to an address not associated with the domain name. Because attempts by spyware to communicate with its home server are now routed to the forced address, the spyware is unable to communicate with its homer server, and thus can neither steal information nor download updates of itself. Additionally, the anti-spyware manager can identify computers that are infected with spyware and clean or quarantine them.
US07752657B2

The present invention relates to a data processing system comprising a computer for receiving data that is uploaded from a data source via a public network through a first firewall a database for receiving the data from the computer through a second firewall, and a data sink for receiving the data from the database via a private network through a third firewall.
US07752652B2

A system for integrating security and access for facilities and information systems is provided including a computer server, information systems, and facility protection systems. The information systems and facility protection systems are coupled for communication to the computer server via a network. Facility protection systems represent an access control system for controlling entry/exit to areas of buildings, such as with badges or other ID Credentials and other systems, such as intrusion detection and fire systems, to provide protection in facility environments. Information systems each represent a computer system requiring user authorization, via computers or terminals capable of connecting thereto, to access information resources or network environments protected by the computer system. Information systems may also include information protection systems requiring user authorization for external access to other information systems. The computer server has a central database which stores at least information defining users and their access privileges to the information systems and to areas of facilities controlled by access control system. Each of the information systems and facility protection systems sends event data to the computer server when an event occurs on its respective system, and an event transaction processor in the computer server determines action(s), if any, to take in response to one or more received events and accordingly sends action data to other information systems and facility protection systems to instruct such systems to automatically respond to security risks representing by such events in real-time. Central management of users and their access privileges, and monitoring of events is further provided.
US07752643B2

An information search system is provided. The information search system is capable of searching a target content based on meta information provided by a broadcast station, in which a reception device makes an inquiry toward a directory service server based on a meta information reference ID accompanying meta information coming from the broadcast station so that a meta information group is derived for reference by the meta information reference ID. Also, another inquiry is made toward a content service server based on address information or a keyword of the content included in sub meta information in the meta information group so as to perform a search for any desired content.
US07752639B2

An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for accessing enterprise information system (EIS) resources in a service component architecture (SCA) for an integration server by selectively binding a service import to a low-level EIS resource adapter (RA) resource of an EIS service provider in response to a declarative binding definition, selectively binding a service import to an EIS service of the EIS service provider in response to a declarative binding definition, and selectively binding a service import to one or more EIS resources through an EIS service mapping configured to transform a service request from the service component client to satisfy an interface pattern of the EIS service provider. By allowing access to resources at different levels and allowing mappings of resources, the requirements of service clients can be met.
US07752636B1

In a computer-implemented method for transferring data, data is received from an external source, the data comprising a plurality of units. Each unit of the data is formatted into a formatted data unit having a first format. A full buffer is formed by storing the formatted data units in a data buffer. Contents of the full buffer is provided to an internal data sink, wherein the internal data sink is configured to provide the data units of the full buffer to a data converter, the data converter providing the data units to one or more external data sinks in an associated external data sink compatible format.
US07752635B2

A system includes an interface device that executes a driver and a processing device that executes instructions to implement a virtual machine, and to implement a virtual network interface card that is configurable to enable communication between the driver and the virtual machine. The processor executes instructions to configure the virtual network interface card.
US07752632B2

Methods and systems are provided for exposing nested data in computer-generated documents in a transparent manner. A mechanism is provided for a client application to query a server application for a list of available file formats after an object is requested from a server application document for embedding into a client application document. Another mechanism is provided for the client application to request a particular format associated with the embedded object from the server application document. Once the client application obtains file format information available to the server application or associated with the particular object, the client application may utilize the obtained file formats for utilizing or operating on the embedded object according to the native file formats associated with the embedded object.
US07752631B2

To enable the adaptation of display units, e.g. of a medical device, to different color display capabilities, an individual library of individual user interface components is used. The individual library of individual user interface components is derived from a generically wrapped library of universal user interface components. It is consequently readily possible to modify the graphical user interface.
US07752627B2

A leaky-bucket style thread scheduler for scheduling concurrent execution of multiple threads in a microprocessor is provided. The execution pipeline notifies the scheduler when it has completed instructions. The scheduler maintains a virtual water level for each thread and decreases it each time the execution pipeline executes an instruction of the thread. The scheduler includes an instruction execution rate for each thread. The scheduler increases the virtual water level based on the requested rate per a predetermined number of clock cycles. The scheduler includes virtual water pressure parameters that define a set of virtual water pressure ranges over the height of the virtual water bucket. When a thread's virtual water level moves from one virtual water pressure range to the next higher range, the scheduler increases the instruction issue priority for the thread; conversely, when the level moves down, the scheduler decreases the instruction issue priority for the thread.
US07752626B1

System and method for client-side RMI-IIOP request load balancing. Embodiments provide a vendor-independent mechanism for load balancing RMI-IIOP requests using standards-based JNDI (Java Naming and Directory Interface) SPIs. One embodiment may use an implementation of a Context Factory class such as the JNDI ContextFactory SPI (Service Provider Interface) for RMI-IIOP request load balancing. Using embodiments, a client may load-balance RMI-IIOP requests to application server instances in an application server cluster. A plurality of client-side Object Request Brokers (ORBs) may be created “up front” on a client system. After the client-side ORBs are initially created, the client-side ORBs may be selected according to a load balancing scheme in response to requests to access the application server. Note that embodiments may be adapted for use in client-side load balancing for other types of client-server systems.
US07752625B2

Provided are a method, system, and program for caching resources requested by applications. Resources requested by applications are cached, wherein the applications use the resources to access services. A capability set of at least one capability is associated with each resource group. A resource group includes at least one resource for accessing one service and the capability set associated with one resource group includes at least one capability for the resources in the resource group. A request for cached resources having a requested at least one capability is received from one of the applications. A determination is made of the one resource group associated with one capability set satisfying the requested at least one capability.
US07752624B2

In one embodiment, a system comprises a plurality of computing containers having processing resources for executing software workloads, a plurality of management processes for controlling access to the processing resources according to workload policy definitions, a data container for storing a plurality of workload policy definitions and associations between the plurality of workload policy definitions and the plurality of computing containers, and a configuration process for communicating workload policy definitions from the data container to the plurality of management processes.
US07752615B1

According to an embodiment of the invention, a storage server management application (SSMA) includes scripting ability. The scripting ability allows functionality to be added to the SSMA by deploying scripting packages onto the SSMA. The packages may be written by a user having access to the SSMA, and deployed onto the SSMA without affecting the core functionality of the SSMA, and may be easily removed. One package allows a system administrator to monitor the configuration of storage servers monitored by the SSMA by comparing the current configuration of the filers to a standard configuration. Another package monitors best practices for redundant array of inexpensive disks (RAID) systems. Other packages may be added to the SSMA.
US07752614B2

The dynamic workflow documentation system creates an instance of a workflow program, extracts metadata properties from the workflow programs, records the metadata properties, notifies the workflow manager that a new instance of the workflow program has been created. Security and auditing functions of the dynamic workflow documentation system ensure that workflow programs execute according to the workflow requirements.
US07752612B2

A method, apparatus and program storage device for determining an optimal number of tasks during reorganization of a database system with memory and processor constraints. The reorganization system identifies memory constraints, identifies processing capabilities and determines a number of reorganization processes and a combination of reorganization processes that provides a minimum reorganization time based upon the identified memory and processing constraints. The identified memory and processing capabilities identify a domain representing a set of rules applicable to the identified memory and processing capabilities. The set of rules of the identified domain are applied to determine an optimal number and combination of reorganization processes that minimizes a reorganization time.
US07752592B2

A reusable hardware control structure is provided for a hardware acceleration engine that can be configured for implementation within an electronic integrated circuit design according to any one of a plurality of configuration alternatives. The reusable hardware control structure comprises a digital logic circuit design developed to receive configuration data from the hardware acceleration engine describing a selected configuration alternative. The selected configuration alternative is any one of the plurality of configuration alternatives. The digital logic circuit design is developed to process the configuration data to provide an evaluation of an input-to-output latency and an input blocking pattern of the hardware acceleration engine configured according to the selected configuration alternative. The evaluation is capable of being leveraged by control logic within the electronic integrated circuit design to increase utilization of the hardware acceleration engine.
US07752581B2

A system and method is disclosed for assessing a probability of failure of operation of a semiconductor wafer. The method includes inputting risk factor data into a memory and inputting a plurality of wafers into a semiconductor fabrication manufacturing process. A subset of wafers is select to obtain a sample population and at least one region of each wafer of the sample population is inspected. Circuit design data associated with each wafer of the sample population is obtained and one or more defects that present an increased risk to the operation of a particular wafer are identified. The identification is a function of the risk factor data, the inspecting step and the circuit design data. A probability of semiconductor wafer failure is calculated.
US07752577B1

Systems and methods for creating and implementing two-dimensional (2D), image-based design rules (IBDRs) are disclosed. Techniques for creating 2D IBDR can include identifying a search pattern that is representative of a 2D pattern of interest of a design, creating a pattern representation based on the search pattern, defining an anchor point for the pattern representation, and assigning weights to elements of the pattern representation. The 2D IBDR can be used in systems and method for searching a design by comparing the 2D IBDR to the design. A number of 2D IBDRs can be merged into a subset of similar 2D IBDRs by characterizing desired rule geometries, sorting the 2D IBDRs into groups according to the desired rule geometries, merging the groups of 2D IBDRs into a single representative search pattern. Additionally, standard design rules can be created from the disclosed 2D IBDRs. The standard design rule can be created from a 2D pattern of interest by defining an origin of a shape within the 2D pattern of interest, identifying features within the 2D pattern of interest, deriving parameters relative to the origin for each of the identified features, and writing the standard design rule script using the derived parameters.
US07752573B2

Disclosed is a display controller having: time line display means that includes at least two or more units of time on, of a first display area and a second display area that are formed on display means, the first display area, and that displays a time line manipulable to specify a desired unit of time from the two or more units of time; and related information display means that reads out, from a plurality of pieces of information stored respectively including time information added, information to which are added time information related to a unit of time specified by manipulation of the time line displayed on the first display area through operating means, and that displays the read out information on the second display area of the display means.
Patent Agency Ranking