US08665004B2
A device for controlling (10) a power transistor (5), comprises: an amplifying device (15) for monitoring the transistor gate (5) via an output control signal, the device including: a first input connected to the transistor drain, the whole assembly forming a first circuit portion; a second input connected to the transistor source, the whole assembly forming a second circuit portion. The control device comprises means for producing a polarizing current (I1, I2), the current being injected into the first and second inputs (NEG, POS) so as to offset the drain-source voltage measurement and maintain a linear operating mode of the output control signal, prior to opening the transistor, and the same number of N semiconductor junctions in the first and second circuit portions. The device is applicable in particular on battery charging devices.
US08664993B2
A phase interpolator, multi-phase interpolation device, interpolated clock generating method and multi-phase clock generating method is related to a phase interpolator with a differential to single-ended converter, a load circuit, two differential pairs, a current source and at least a switch pair. By using the switch pair to control the current providing for the two differential pairs from the current source, and through regulating the load of the load circuit and/or the reference current of the current source, the intersection of a first signal and a second signal is in the overlap duration between a first input clock and a second input clock, so that uniform multi-phase output clock signal can be interpolated.
US08664988B1
A phase locked loop including a flying-adder divider circuit configured to receive phases of a periodic signal from a frequency generator and output a feedback signal to a phase detector, and a method of generating a periodic signal using such a flying-adder circuit, are disclosed. The flying-adder divider circuit generally includes a flying-adder and one or two divide-by-N dividers. The flying-adder receives K phases of the periodic signal, where K is an integer of at least 2, and generates a divided periodic signal from the K phases. The phase locked loop may include flying-adder divider circuits inside and/or outside the loop.
US08664985B2
The present invention provides for a solution to reduce locking time with satisfactory performance without the need for significant footprint area for the phase lock loop (PLL) circuits by boosting phase frequency detector (PFD) and charge pump (CP) gains through various circuitry configurations that employ one or more flip-flops, delay elements and advanced circuitry techniques.
US08664980B2
A frequency synthesizer for generating a low noise and low jitter timebase of a reference signal generates first and second output signals a difference frequency that is low enough for use in sub-scanning is implemented with a first incrementer, having a preset increment and a preset end value E1 controlling a first fractional divider and a second incrementer having a preset increment and a present end value E2 controlling a second fractional divider, wherein each of the incrementers is clocked from the output signal of each fractional divider so that, when the end value E1, E2 is reached, an end signal is output and the incrementers are reset to a carryover value as a new starting value and the end signal is switched between the division factors of the fractional dividers so that the switching sequence of the end signal is periodic with the output signals of the fractional dividers.
US08664978B2
A time to current conversion apparatus and methods. An impedance having an input for selectively receiving a time varying periodic signal or a known voltage signal is provided; and a current output is coupled to the impedance. By observing the average current through the impedance for the known voltage signal over a time period, and by observing the average current through the impedance for a time varying periodic signal, the duty cycle of the time varying periodic signal may be determined by evaluating a ratio of a first average current observed at the current output while the time varying periodic signal is coupled to the impedance to a second average current observed at the current output while the known voltage signal is coupled to the impedance. An embodiment time to current converter circuit is disclosed. Method embodiments for determining the duty cycle of a time varying periodic signal are provided.
US08664972B2
Each of a plurality of memories includes a terminating resistor for preventing signal reflection, and a memory control circuit includes an ODT control circuit for driving the terminating resistor of each memory, and a selector for selecting, from memories except for a memory to be accessed, at least one memory for which driving of the terminating resistor is to be suppressed, in accordance with the memory to be accessed.
US08664968B2
An integrated circuit (IC) die has an on-die parametric test module. A semiconductor substrate has die area, and a functional IC formed on an IC portion of the die area including a plurality of circuit elements configured for performing a circuit function. The on-die parametric test module is formed on the semiconductor substrate in a portion of the die area different from the IC portion. The on-die parametric test module includes a reference layout that provides at least one active reference MOS transistor, wherein the active reference MOS transistor has a reference spacing value for each of a plurality of context dependent effect parameters. A plurality of different variant layouts are included on the on-die parametric test module. Each variant layout provides at least one active variant MOS transistor that provides a variation with respect to the reference spacing value for at least one of the context dependent effect parameters.
US08664967B2
There is established an easier inspection method with which it is not required to set up probes on wires. Also, there is provided an inspection apparatus using this inspection method. With the inspection apparatus or inspection method, primary coils of an inspection substrate and secondary coils of a device substrate are superimposed on each other so that a certain space is maintained therebetween. An AC signal is inputted into the primary coils, thereby generating an electromotive force in each secondary coil by electromagnetic induction. Then, each circuit provided on the device substrate is driven using the electromotive force and information possessed by an electromagnetic wave or electric field generated in this circuit is monitored, thereby detecting each defective spot.
US08664961B2
An arc flash validation unit may generate stimulus to be received by an arc flash detection unit (AFDU) and observe the response of the AFDU thereto. The response of the AFDU to the stimulus may allow for validation of the AFDU (e.g., validation that the AFDU is operating as expected). In addition, the arc flash validation unit may determine the response time of the AFDU. Different types of stimulus may be provided to the AFDU, including electro-optical (EO) stimulus (e.g., visible light), current stimulus, and the like. Results of the validation may be displayed on a human-machine interface, which may display an estimate of the total energy that would be released in an actual arc flash event. The estimate may be used to define appropriate safety parameters for the equipment monitored by the AFDU.
US08664957B2
The present embodiments relate to a method and gradient cable connection for a magnetic resonance tomography system. The gradient cable connection connects cable shoes of two gradient cables to one another. A first fastening device is provided with two nuts. Using the first fastening device, the cable shoes are pressed against one another by the two nuts, the two nuts being disposed on a bolt on opposing sides of the cable shoes. A second fastening device is also provided. Using the second fastening device, the bolt is pressed against a support plate by the bolt and one of the two nuts.
US08664950B2
A method for measuring longitudinal bias magnetic field in a tunnel magnetoresistive sensor of a magnetic head, the method includes the steps of: applying an external longitudinal time-changing magnetic field onto the tunnel magnetoresistive sensor; determining a shield saturation value of the tunnel magnetoresistive sensor under the application of the external longitudinal time-changing magnetic field; applying an external transverse time-changing magnetic field and an external longitudinal DC magnetic field onto the tunnel magnetoresistive sensor; determining a plurality of different output amplitudes under the application of the external transverse time-changing magnetic field and the application of different field strength values of the external longitudinal DC magnetic field; plotting a graph according to the different output amplitudes and the different field strength values; and determining the strength of the longitudinal bias magnetic field according to the graph and the shield saturation value.
US08664938B2
A probe head is disclosed that is detachable from a probe body containing electronics. The probe head including a housing enclosing a sensor and at least part of an electrical connector electrically coupled to the sensor. The housing has a coupling member positioned to detachably connect the housing to the probe body, and when the probe head and probe body are coupled, the electrical connector electrically couples the sensor to the electronics in the probe body.
US08664935B2
An electronic watt-hour meter; a current transformer operatively coupled to the electronic watt-hour meter; a first shield on a first side of the current transformer; and a second shield on a second side of the current transformer, wherein the second side is substantially parallel to the first side, wherein the first shield and the second shield each include a substantially magnetically permeable and conductive metal.
US08664926B2
A DC-DC converter includes first and second capacitors connected in series, a switching part, and a control circuit part which includes a voltage difference calculating part for calculating a difference between voltages of the first and second capacitors, a duty ratio controller for controlling duty ratio of on- and OFF-durations to decrease the voltage difference of the first and second capacitors on the basis of the calculated difference. A power supplying system including the DC-DC converter controls balance between first and second capacitors in voltage on the basis of the powering/regenerating discriminating signal.
US08664925B2
Provided is a voltage regulator having low current consumption, which is capable of preventing a reverse current from flowing thereto from an output terminal (122), irrespective of a magnitude of a voltage of a VDD terminal (121). The voltage regulator has a circuit configuration in which voltage dividing resistors are not used for a comparator circuit for comparing the voltage of the VDD terminal (121) with a voltage of the output terminal (122), to thereby achieve lower current consumption.
US08664911B1
A micro grid bridge structure and an associated method of formation. The micro grid bridge structure includes micro grid apparatuses and at least one bridge module including two bridge units connected by a bridge hinge. Each micro grid apparatus includes a central area and radial arms defining docking bays. Each bridge unit in each bridge module is latched into a docking bay of a respective micro grid apparatus of two micro grid apparatuses to bridge the two grid apparatuses together such that each micro grid apparatus is bridged to at least one other micro grid apparatus. Each micro grid apparatus is either a power hub apparatus whose central area includes rechargeable batteries or a processor apparatus whose central area includes processors that includes a unique processor having a unique operating system differing from an operating system in each other processor.
US08664908B2
An object of the present invention is providing permissible values of start currents with sufficiently high start torque ensuring the possibility of the start of a loaded motor, the smoothness of the motor's start, without spikes and fluctuations of the currents, voltages and torques. The other objects of the proposed device are simplicity, reliability and economic efficiency. The proposed method of an induction motor start includes an acquisition of two components of the voltage, feeding the motor. The both components have the different controlled frequencies and root mean square values. The proposed device for an induction motor start comprises two channels forming signals, which create two corresponding components of the motor's feeding voltage.
US08664902B2
Provided is an AC motor in a three-phase unbalanced state such as a claw-teeth type AC motor (108), which is reduced in magnetic flux pulsations and torque pulsations. Among the current command values of individual phases to be intrinsically given to an inverter (106) for feeding three-phase alternating currents of variable voltages/frequencies to the electric motor, a current command of an intermediate phase (a V-phase) having a smaller magnetic resistance of a stator core than those of other phases is subjected to a reducing correction by a correction unit (102) on the basis of the correction amount calculated by a current correction amount calculating unit (103), and the unbalanced three-phase alternating currents are fed to the AC motor (108), so that magnetic flux pulsations of a secondary electric angle and torque pulsations of the same order are reduced.
US08664898B2
Provided are a device and method of stopping an induction motor. The includes: a frequency commanding unit for generating an operating frequency corresponding to a rotational speed command of the induction motor; a q-axis and d-axis V/F converter for outputting a first q-axis voltage (Vq1) proportional to the generated operating frequency and a first d-axis voltage (Vd1) proportional to a 0 frequency; a q-axis PI current controller for outputting a second q-axis voltage (Vq2) for stopping the induction motor when the operating frequency reaches a stopping frequency; a d-axis PI current controller for outputting a second d-axis voltage (Vd2) for stopping the induction motor when the operating frequency reaches the stopping frequency; and a selection unit for selecting and outputting the first q-axis and d-axis voltages (Vq1 and Vd1) or the second q-axis and d-axis voltages (Vq2 and Vd2) according to the operating frequency generated by the frequency commanding unit.
US08664896B2
A control circuit for an operating device for lighting devices, wherein a return signal is supplied to an input of the control circuit by the lighting device, and the control circuit has an error detection block that recognizes at least two different types of lighting device errors by means of the return signal applied at said input.
US08664885B2
A circuit for connecting to a dimmer, the circuit configured to receive an input signal from the dimmer. The circuit comprises a first load and a switch. The switch is operable to automatically engage the first load at a predetermined time from a zero-crossing of the input signal and automatically disengage the first load at other times.
US08664882B2
A downlighting illumination system (100) is provided having a high light output ratio with an extended apparent source size producing a near uniform illuminance, correlated colour temperature and colour rendering index distribution across an illuminated area. The system (100) includes a power source (61), an electronic driving system (60), a light emitting source (65), a reflector (67) arranged to receive light from the light emitting source (65) and to reflect light through an output aperture in a manner that virtually extends the apparent size of the light emitting source (65) to illuminate the output aperture.
US08664877B2
The present disclosure relates to a light driving apparatus which may stably drive an LED light at a normal operation by feeding back the output voltage of the LED light and stably drive the LED light at an abnormal operation by feeding back the voltage supplied to the LED light, and the light driving apparatus includes: a rectifier circuit; a transformer circuit; a power factor correction circuit; a smoothing circuit; a constant-current driving circuit; a dimming control circuit; a photo-coupler; a sample and hold circuit; a first photo-coupler driving circuit for feeding back the voltage output from the sample and hold circuit and applying the feedback voltage as a driving voltage of the photo-coupler; and a second photo-coupler driving circuit for feeding back the voltage output from the smoothing circuit and supplied to the LED module and supplying the feedback voltage as a driving voltage of the photo-coupler.
US08664866B2
The present invention describes a solar powered garden lamp (100,100a,100b). The lamp (100,100a,100b) includes a lamp assembly, a solar panel (192), a rechargeable battery (150), a sunlight-hour switch (154), an LED (146a,146b) and a control circuit (140). In use, a user estimates the number of hours of sunlight incident on the solar panel (192) and the sunlight-hour switch (154) is calibrated by applying a weather variability factor on a battery charger (142) capacity that is connected to the solar panel. The solar panel (192) converts solar energy into electric power to recharge the battery (150) during the day so that the battery (150) has sufficient power to light up the LED (146a or 146b) at a predetermined brightness continuously from dusk to dawn.
US08664862B2
A plasma source includes a first rod forming a quarterwave antenna, surrounded by at least one parallel rod forming a coupler and which is substantially the same length as the first rod, set to a reference potential, the coupler rods being evenly distributed radially about the first rod, at a distance of around one-fifth to one-twentieth of the quarter of the wavelength.
US08664859B2
Provided is an automotive lamp, and more particularly, an automotive lamp which can secure a forward long-range field of view without requiring an additional light source. The automotive lamp having a plurality of light distribution patterns of Class-W, Class-V, Class-C, Class-E, and High and includes: a plurality of lamp units in which light-emitting diodes (LEDs) turned on or off according to each of the light distribution patterns or having different illumination patterns are installed; an actuator driving the lamp units; and a controller enabling a switch from any one of the light distribution patterns to another one of the light distribution patterns by controlling at least one of the actuator and a value of current supplied to each of the lamp units.
US08664851B2
Provided is an electronic device including a substrate, a pixel located on the substrate and defined by a bank layer, and a multilayer protection film placed on the pixel and composed of multiple layers including at least one organic layer. The thickness of the first organic layer of the multiple layers forming the multilayer protection film satisfies T≧k×H×W where T represents the thickness of the first organic layer, H denotes the height of the bank layer, and k is a constant that is varied according to flowability or viscosity of the first organic layer.
US08664846B2
A green-shifted red solid state lighting device includes at least one green solid state light emitter arranged to stimulate emissions from at least one red lumiphor, arranged in combination with at least one blue solid state light emitter. Such device may be devoid of any yellow lumiphor arranged to be stimulated by a blue solid state light emitter. A green shifted red plus blue (GSR+B) lighting device exhibits reduced Stokes Shift losses as compared to a blue shifted yellow plus red (BSY+R) lighting device, with comparable color rendering performance and similar efficiency, enhanced color stability over a range of operating temperatures, and enhanced color rendering performance at higher correlated color temperatures. Additional solid state emitters and/or lumiphors may be provided.
US08664841B2
An illuminative clipper structure contains a body including a first and a second support arms axially connected together, the first support arm including a recessed area arranged on an outer wall thereof, a first and a second recesses communicating with the recessed area; a first sleeve fitted on the first support arm and including a chamber formed on an inner wall thereof, and an aperture to communicate with the chamber; an illuminating assembly including a holder placed in the chamber to receive cells and supply power toward a bulb to emit lights, a wire coupled with the holder and the bulb, the wire being inserted into the aperture from the first recess so that the bulb is located at a second recess of the body; a protective cover covered onto the recessed area to fix the bulb so that the bulb emits lights to a movable opening of a clipper.
US08664840B2
An LED bulb includes a bulb body and an adapter detachably connecting with the bulb body. The bulb body has two pins function as a negative electrode and a positive electrode. The two pins are for inserting into and electrically connecting with a bi-pin socket connector for light bulb, such as MR16 socket connector. The adapter includes a junction seat, a first connector, a second connector, and a bulb cap. Metallic threads are formed on the bulb cap. The first connector is received in the junction seat and electrically contacts the threads. The second connector extends through the junction seat and the bulb cap to make a bottom end thereof being exposed. The adapter is able to engage and electrically connect with an Edison screw socket connector, for example, E-10 socket connector.
US08664833B2
Disclosed are a slim self-powering power supplier using a flexible PCB for a wireless sensor network and a sensor node using the same, and a fabrication method thereof. An exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure provides a self-powering power supplier including: a flexible PCB; a lower electrode positioned on the flexible PCB; a piezoelectric body having a cantilever structure deposited on the lower electrode; and an upper electrode formed on the piezoelectric body.
US08664818B2
An electric motor or generator having a stator with stator teeth for mounting electrical coils and a rotor, wherein the stator has a first surface that is parallel to an axis of rotation of the rotor and is axially separated from the stator teeth and the rotor has a second surface that is formed in substantially the same axial position as the stator s first surface, wherein material is mounted on the first surface or the second surface that has a lower frictional coefficient than the first surface or second surface.
US08664815B2
A flywheel based energy storage apparatus includes a housing and a hub-less flywheel mounted within the housing. The hub-less flywheel has a mass which is shifted radially outwards from a central axis of the hub-less flywheel thus increasing the energy density of the apparatus. The flywheel includes an outer axially extending annular surface, an inner axially extending surface and two radially extending side surfaces. The inner axially extending surface has a plurality of magnets aligned to form a rotor. A plurality of coils is supported by the housing and is aligned with the rotor to form a motor/generator. A controller controls the motion of the hub-less flywheel to reduce vibrations and controls electrical power transfer to and from the motor/generator.
US08664814B2
Disclosed herein is a switched reluctance motor including: a rotor part including a rotor core having a shaft fixedly coupled to the center thereof and a plurality of rotor salient poles formed to be protruded from an outer peripheral surface of the rotor core; a stator part including a stator yoke having the rotor part rotatably received in an inner portion thereof and a plurality of stator salient poles formed to be protruded from the stator yoke in a direction toward the rotor salient poles so as to correspond to the rotor salient poles and having coils wound therearound; and a printed circuit board fixedly coupled to an upper portion of the stator part and including a plurality of ground parts having the coils penetrating therethrough, the coil being wound around the plurality of stator salient poles.
US08664807B2
A system and method for distributing the power of an electromagnetic signal is presented. In one embodiment, a power distribution cavity includes, a planar cavity, input ports and output ports. The planar cavity is formed with a metallic sheet in the shape of a star pattern with a plurality of elongated star arms extending from a round center portion of the metallic sheet. The input ports are attached to the round center portion of the metallic sheet for receiving an input signal. The signals entering the cavity from the input ports creating independent resonant modes within the cavity that combine producing a tapered aperture distribution of signals at the output ports. The output ports are attached near to the outward ends of the elongated star arms. The planar cavity is thus configured to propagate electromagnetic fields at the output ports that were excited within the cavity by the input ports.
US08664803B2
A wireless power receiver according to an embodiment of the present invention is a wireless power receiver which acquire power by a non-contact method from a wireless power feeder, the wireless power receiver having: a power receive resonance circuit that includes a power receive coil and power receive capacitor and acquires power from a power feed coil of the wireless power feeder by means of the power receive coil on the basis of a magnetic field resonance effect between the power feed coil and the power receive coil; a power receive load coil that receives the power fed from the power receive coil by a non-contact method; and an impedance converter that is arranged between the power receive load coil and a load and in which a primary impedance connected to the power receive load coil is higher than a secondary impedance connected to the load.
US08664794B2
Disclosed is a gearbox with two driver gears that are phase shifted 180 degrees with respect to a driven gear so that counter-rotation of the driver gears combine to rotate the driven gear together. The gearbox can be used to couple a counter-rotating, coaxial wind turbine rotors by coupling the driver gears to the counter-rotating rotors and the driven gear to a generator so that the counter-rotating rotors on the wind turbine rotate the driven gear in the same direction. The driven gear can be coupled to a generator to produce electricity.
US08664789B2
The invention relates to a wave-power unit with a floating body (1) connected by flexible connection means (3) to a translator (6) reciprocating in a linear generator (2), The floating body (1) is arranged for floating on the sea and the stator (8) of the generator for anchoring on the sea bed, According to the invention the connection means is guided by a guiding device (9) through lower and upper openings, The part of the connection means (3) that momentary is within the guiding device (9) is thereby guided to be aligned with the translator movements adjacent the lower opening and to be allowed to be inclined adjacent the upper opening. The invention also relates to a use of the invented wave-power plant and to a method for producing electric energy.
US08664788B1
A method and system for dissipating energy in a direct current (dc) bus of a doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG) converter during a grid event is described. In one aspect, the method comprises monitoring operating conditions of an electrical system, the electrical system comprising at least a DFIG generator and a line side converter and a rotor side converter connected by a dc bus having a dynamic brake connected thereto; detecting an overvoltage on the dc bus or a condition indicative of an overvoltage on the dc link is detected, the overvoltage on the dc bus or condition indicative of the overvoltage caused by a grid event; and causing energy in the dc link to be dissipated using the dynamic brake.
US08664787B2
A speed setting system that generates a speed control command for controlling the rotational speed of a stall-controlled wind turbine of a wind-powered machine. The speed setting system generates the speed command as a function of performance variation of the wind turbine due to environmental and/or other factors. The speed setting system utilizes a performance-compensation term that is slowly adjusted to compensate for relatively long-term performance variation. In one example, the performance-compensation term is adjusted only when the current power output of the wind turbine is at least 80% of the rated output power to ensure the wind speed is sufficiently high.
US08664784B2
A subsurface power generating system in one embodiment includes a frame, an electric generator supported by the frame and operably connected to a first vertical rotor, another electric generator supported by the frame and operably connected to a second vertical rotor, a first louver operably connected to the first vertical rotor and including a front side, and a back side, and pivotable between a first position whereat the back side is in contact with a first pivot limiting structure, and a second position whereat the back side is not in contact with the first pivot limiting structure, and a second louver operably connected to the second vertical rotor and including a front side, and a back side, and pivotable between a third position whereat the back side is in contact with a second pivot limiting structure, and a fourth position whereat the back side is not in contact with the second pivot limiting structure.
US08664782B1
A system for generating electricity for powering an electric or hybrid motor vehicle uses a fan which is driven by the air flow created by the motion of the vehicle. In the event that the fan is unable to generate sufficient electricity, a controller operates an auxiliary gas powered motor for the generation of electricity for powering the electric or hybrid motor vehicle.
US08664779B2
Disclosed are a semiconductor device wherein warping of a semiconductor chip due to a sudden temperature change can be prevented without increasing the thickness, and a semiconductor device assembly. The semiconductor device comprises a semiconductor chip, a front side resin layer formed on the front surface of the semiconductor chip by using a first resin material, and a back side resin layer formed on the back surface of the semiconductor chip by using a second resin material having a higher thermal expansion coefficient than the first resin material. The back side resin layer is formed thinner than the front side resin layer.
US08664775B2
A semiconductor device includes a circuit substrate, a first semiconductor chip disposed on the circuit substrate, a plurality of first spacers disposed on the first semiconductor chip, a second semiconductor chip which includes a first adhesive agent layer on a lower face thereof and is disposed on upper portions of the plurality of spacers, a wire which connects the circuit substrate to the first semiconductor chip, and a first sealing material which seals a gap between the first semiconductor chip and the first adhesive agent layer, wherein each height of the plurality of the first spacers is greater than height of the wire relative to an upper face of the first semiconductor chip.
US08664773B2
A manufacturing method for a mounting structure of a semiconductor package component, including: applying a first adhesive with viscosity η1 and a thixotropy index T1 at a position on the substrate, which is on an outer side of the mounted semiconductor package component; applying, on the first adhesive, a second adhesive with viscosity η2 and a thixotropy index T2 so that the second adhesive gets in contact with an outer periphery part of the semiconductor package component; and forming, through a subsequent reflow process, a first adhesive part of the hardened first adhesive and a second adhesive part of the hardened second adhesive, wherein the first and second adhesives satisfy 30≦η2≦η1≦300 (Pa·s) and 3≦T2≦T1≦7, and sectional area S1 of the first adhesive part and sectional area S2 of the second adhesive part with respect to a direction perpendicular to a mounting surface of the substrate satisfy a relation S1≦S2.
US08664772B2
An interface substrate is disclosed which includes an interposer having through-semiconductor vias. An upper and a lower organic substrate are further built around the interposer. The disclosed interface substrate enables the continued use of low cost and widely deployed organic substrates for semiconductor packages while providing several advantages. The separation of the organic substrate into upper and lower substrates enables the cost effective matching of fabrication equipment. By providing an opening in one of the organic substrates, one or more semiconductor dies may be attached to exposed interconnect pads coupled to through-semiconductor vias of the interposer, enabling the use of flip chips with high-density microbump arrays and the accommodation of dies with varied bump pitches. By providing the opening specifically in the upper organic substrate, a package-on-package structure with optimized height may also be provided.
US08664769B2
An element using a semiconductor layer is formed between wiring layers and, at the same time, a gate electrode is formed using a conductive material other than a material for wirings. A first wiring is embedded in a surface of a first wiring layer. A gate electrode is formed over the first wiring. The gate electrode is coupled to the first wiring. The gate electrode is formed by a process different from a process for the first wiring. Therefore, the gate electrode can be formed using a material other than a material for the first wiring. Further, a gate insulating film and a semiconductor layer are formed over the gate electrode.
US08664763B2
Disclosed herein is a semiconductor apparatus including: a first semiconductor part including a first wiring; a second semiconductor part which is adhered to the first semiconductor part and which includes a second wiring electrically connected to the first wiring; and a metallic oxide formed by a reaction between oxygen and a metallic material which reacts with oxygen more easily than hydrogen does, the metallic oxide having been diffused into a region which includes a joint interface between the first wiring and the second wiring and the inside of at least one of the first wiring and the second wiring.
US08664759B2
An integrated circuit die includes a substrate having an upper surface, at least one active device formed in a first area of the upper surface of the substrate, and a plurality of layers formed on the upper surface of the substrate above the at least one active device. A first stacked heat conducting structure is provided, spanning from a point proximate the first area of the upper surface of the substrate through the plurality of layers. A lateral heat conducting structure is formed above the uppermost layer of the plurality of layers and in thermal contact with the first stacked heat conducting structure. The invention advantageously facilitates the dissipation of heat from the integrated circuit die, particularly from high-power sources or other localized hot spots.
US08664758B2
A semiconductor package includes a printed circuit board, a chip, a protection frame, and a covering layer. The chip is mounted on the printed circuit board and is electrically connected to the printed circuit board through a number of first bonding wires. The protection frame includes a sidewall surrounding the chip and the bonding wires and defines a number of through holes passing through an inner surface and an outer surface of the sidewall. The protection frame is filled with adhesive. The adhesive adheres to the inner surface and covers the chip and the boding wires. The covering layer is coated on the outer surface and covers the through holes.
US08664751B2
A semiconductor package includes a substrate in which a plurality of wires are formed; at least one semiconductor chip electrically connected to portions of the plurality of wires; and a shielding can mounted on the substrate, surrounding the at least one semiconductor chip, electrically connected to at least one wire of the plurality of wires and including a soft magnetic material. The semiconductor package can prevent or substantially reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI).
US08664739B2
In accordance with the invention, an improved image sensor includes an array of germanium photosensitive elements integrated with a silicon substrate and integrated with silicon readout circuits. The silicon transistors are formed first on a silicon substrate, using well known silicon wafer fabrication techniques. The germanium elements are subsequently formed overlying the silicon by epitaxial growth. The germanium elements are advantageously grown within surface openings of a dielectric cladding. Wafer fabrication techniques are applied to the elements to form isolated germanium photodiodes. Since temperatures needed for germanium processing are lower than those for silicon processing, the formation of the germanium devices need not affect the previously formed silicon devices. Insulating and metallic layers are then deposited and patterned to interconnect the silicon devices and to connect the germanium devices to the silicon circuits. The germanium elements are thus integrated to the silicon by epitaxial growth and integrated to the silicon circuitry by common metal layers.
US08664736B2
A semiconductor device including a device substrate having a front side and a back side. The semiconductor device further includes an interconnect structure disposed on the front side of the device substrate, the interconnect structure having a n-number of metal layers. The semiconductor device also includes a bonding pad disposed on the back side of the device substrate, the bonding pad extending through the interconnect structure and directly contacting the nth metal layer of the n-number of metal layers.
US08664733B2
An improved method for manufacturing an MEMS microphone with a double fixed electrode is specified which results in a microphone which likewise has improved properties.
US08664731B2
In an embodiment, a micro-electromechanical device can include a substrate, a beam, and an isolation joint. The beam can be suspended relative to a surface of the substrate. The isolation joint can be between a first portion and a second portion of the beam, and can have a non-linear shape. In another embodiment, a micro-electromechanical device can include a substrate, a beam, and an isolation joint. The beam can be suspended relative to a surface of the substrate. The isolation joint can be between a first portion and a second portion of the beam. The isolation joint can have a first portion, a second portion, and a bridge portion between the first portion and the second portion. The first and second portions of the isolation joint can each have a seam and a void, while the bridge portion can be solid.
US08664728B2
A transistor includes a substrate, a well formed in the substrate, a drain including a first impurity region implanted in the well, a source including a second impurity region implanted in the well and spaced apart from the first impurity region, a channel for current flow from the drain to the source, and a gate to control a depletion region between the source and the drain The channel has an intrinsic breakdown voltage, and the well, drain and source are configured to provide an extrinsic breakdown voltage lower than the intrinsic breakdown voltage and such that breakdown occurs in a breakdown region in the well located outside the channel and adjacent the drain or the source.
US08664726B2
An electrostatic discharge (ESD) device includes a substrate, an external well of a first conductivity type in the substrate, and an internal well of a second conductivity type in the external well, the first conductivity type opposite the second conductivity type. The ESD device further includes a first heavily doped region of the first conductivity type located at a surface of the internal well, a second heavily doped region of the second conductivity type located at a surface of the internal well, and a third heavily doped region of the first conductivity type located at a surface of the external well. The second heavily doped region is interposed between and spaced from each of the first and third heavily doped regions, and at least one of a space between the first and second heavily doped regions and a space between the second and third heavily doped regions is devoid of a device isolation structure of electrical isolation material.
US08664724B2
An electrostatic discharge semiconductor device can include a first conductivity type substrate that includes inner first conductivity type wells therein and a plurality of gate electrodes that are on an active region of the substrate. A second conductivity type well can be located in the substrate beneath the plurality of gate electrodes including at least one slit therein providing electrical contact between the inner first conductivity type wells and a first conductivity type outer well outside the active region.
US08664716B2
In a lateral-type power MOSFET, high breakdown voltage is achieved with suppressing to increase a cell pitch, and a feedback capacity and an ON resistance are decreased. An n− type silicon region having a high resistance to be a region of maintaining a breakdown voltage is vertically provided with respect to a main surface of an n+ type silicon substrate, and the n− type silicon region having the high resistance is connected to the n+ type silicon substrate. Also, a conductive substance is filled through an insulating substance inside a trench formed to reach the n+ type silicon substrate from the main surface of the n+ type silicon substrate so as to contact with the n− type silicon region having the high resistance, and the conductive substance is electrically connected to a source electrode.
US08664714B2
A power MOSFET includes an epitaxy substrate, conductive trenches, well regions and a dielectric layer. The power MOSFET further has at least one termination structure including at lest one of the conductive trenches, some of the well regions within a termination area and mutually insulated by the conductive trench, a field plate, a contact plug and a heavily-doped region. The field plate including a plate metal and the dielectric layer is on the well regions and the conductive trench within the termination area. The contact plug penetrates through the dielectric layer and connects the plate metal and one of the well regions, so the plate metal has equal potential with the connected well region through the contact plug. The well regions and the conductive trench are electrically coupled to the plate metal by the dielectric layer. The heavily-doped region is between the contact plug and the connected well region.
US08664707B2
Provided is a semiconductor device that can include a lower interconnection on a substrate and at least one upper interconnection disposed on the lower interconnection. At least one gate structure can be disposed between the upper interconnection and the lower interconnection, where the gate structure can include a plurality of gate lines that are vertically stacked so that each of the gate lines has a wiring portion that is substantially parallel to an upper surface of the substrate and a contact portion that extends from the wiring portion along a direction penetrating an upper surface of the substrate. At least one semiconductor pattern can connect the upper and lower interconnections.
US08664691B2
A silicon photomultiplier maintains the photon detection efficiency high while increasing a dynamic range, by reducing the degradation of an effective fill factor that follows the increase of cell number density intended for a dynamic range enhancement.
US08664687B2
Provided are a nitride semiconductor light-emitting device comprising a polycrystalline or amorphous substrate made of AlN; a plurality of dielectric patterns formed on the AlN substrate and having a stripe or lattice structure; a lateral epitaxially overgrown-nitride semiconductor layer formed on the AlN substrate having the dielectric patterns by Lateral Epitaxial Overgrowth; a first conductive nitride semiconductor layer formed on the nitride semiconductor layer; an active layer formed on the first conductive nitride semiconductor layer; and a second conductive nitride semiconductor layer formed on the active layer; and a process for producing the same.
US08664684B2
Solid state lighting (“SSL”) devices with improved contacts and associated methods of manufacturing are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an SSL device includes an SSL structure having a first semiconductor material, a second semiconductor material spaced apart from the first semiconductor material, and an active region between the first and second semiconductor materials. The SSL device also includes a first contact on the first semiconductor material and a second contact on the second semiconductor material, where the first and second contacts define the current flow path through the SSL structure. The first or second contact is configured to provide a current density profile in the SSL structure based on a target current density profile.
US08664677B2
Provided is a light-emitting element in the structure and configuration of causing no possibility of a short circuit between first and second electrodes even if there is any foreign substance or a protrusion on the first electrode. Such a light-emitting element is configured to include, in order, a first electrode 21, an organic layer 23 including a light-emitting layer made of an organic light-emitting material, a semi-transmissive/reflective film 40, a resistance layer 50, and a second electrode 22. The first electrode 21 reflects a light coming from the light-emitting layer, and the second electrode 22 passes through a light coming from the semi-transmissive/reflective film 40 after passing therethrough. The semi-transmissive/reflective film on the organic layer 23 has an average film thickness of 1 nm to 6 nm both inclusive.
US08664674B2
A light emitting device free from void-generation at a bonding between an LED chip and a metal layer provided on a dielectric substrate. This light emitting device is also free from short-circuit between the closely arranged LED chips. This light emitting device includes a plurality of the LED chips, one dielectric substrate (sub-mount member) which is made of a dielectric substrate for holding the LED chips. The dielectric substrate is formed with a plurality of supporting platforms which respectively holds the LED chips. Each supporting platform is provided with a metal layer which is soldered to the LED chip. The supporting platforms are configured to leave a groove between the adjacent ones of the supporting platforms. Each supporting platform is provided at its side surface with a solder-leading portion made of a material having a solder-wettablity higher than that of the supporting platform.
US08664670B2
An organic light-emitting display device comprises a substrate, an anode electrode formed on the substrate, an organic layer formed on the anode electrode, a cathode electrode formed on the organic layer, and an organic capping layer formed on the cathode electrode and containing a capping organic material and a rare-earth material which has higher oxidizing power than the material which forms the cathode electrode.
US08664665B2
The present disclosure generally relates to a Schottky diode that has a substrate, a drift layer provided over the substrate, and a Schottky layer provided over an active region of the substrate. A junction barrier array is provided in the drift layer just below the Schottky layer. The elements of the junction barrier array are generally doped regions in the drift layer. To increase the depth of these doped regions, individual recesses may be formed in the surface of the drift layer where the elements of the junction barrier array are to be formed. Once the recesses are formed in the drift layer, areas about and at the bottom of the recesses are doped to form the respective elements of the junction barrier array.
US08664660B2
A p channel IFT of a driving circuit has a single drain structure and its n channel TFT, a GOLD structure or an LDD structure. A pixel TFT has the LDD structure. A pixel electrode disposed in a pixel portion is connected to the pixel TFT through a hole bored in at least a protective insulation film formed of an inorganic insulating material and formed above a gate electrode of the pixel TFT, and in an interlayer insulating film disposed on the insulation film in close contact therewith. These process steps use 6 to 8 photo-masks.
US08664653B2
Disclosed is a semiconductor device including an insulating layer, a source electrode and a drain electrode embedded in the insulating layer, an oxide semiconductor layer in contact with the insulating layer, the source electrode, and the drain electrode, a gate insulating layer covering the oxide semiconductor layer, and a gate electrode over the gate insulating layer. The upper surface of the surface of the insulating layer, which is in contact with the oxide semiconductor layer, has a root-mean-square (RMS) roughness of 1 nm or less. There is a difference in height between an upper surface of the insulating layer and each of an upper surface of the source electrode and an upper surface of the drain electrode. The difference in height is preferably 5 nm or more. This structure contributes to the suppression of defects of the semiconductor device and enables their miniaturization.
US08664651B2
A switching device includes a first electrode (101), a second electrode (102), and a complex oxide ion conducting layer (103) interposed between the first electrode (101) and the second electrode (102). The complex oxide ion conducting layer (103) contains at least two oxides including a metal oxide. The first electrode (101) can supply electrons to the complex oxide ion conducting layer (103). The second electrode (102) contains a metal and can supply ions of the metal to the complex oxide ion conducting layer (103).
US08664649B2
An organic light emitting diode display includes a substrate, an organic light emitting diode on the substrate, an organic film configured to cover the organic light emitting diode on the substrate in an organic film deposition area having a first diameter, and an inorganic film configured to cover the organic film on the substrate in an inorganic film deposition area having a second diameter, wherein L1 is the first diameter of the organic film deposition area in μm, wherein L2 is the second diameter of the inorganic film deposition area in μm, wherein D is a thickness of the organic film in μm, and wherein L2−L1≧2 (171D+150 μm).
US08664644B2
A pixel driver circuit for driving a light-emitting element and a pixel circuit having the pixel driver circuit are provided. The pixel driver circuit includes a data line, address lines, switch thin film transistors, feedback thin film transistors and drive thin film transistors. The pixel circuit may include an organic light emitting diode, which is driven by the pixel driver circuit.
US08664643B2
Organic light-emitting diode including electron transport layer and method of manufacturing the same
An OLED including an electron transport layer having multi-layered structure and a method of manufacturing the same, the method including simultaneously reciprocating first and second deposition sources that include different deposition materials, across a substrate.
US08664620B2
The particle beam rotational irradiation apparatus is provided with an irradiation nozzle that irradiates a charged particle beam, a beam transport unit that transports the charged particle beam to the irradiation nozzle, and a rotating unit that can rotate around the isocenter; the particle beam rotational irradiation apparatus is characterized in that the beam transport unit has three or more bending electromagnets and in that the bending electromagnets are arranged in such a way that in the case where as a pair of bending planes, any two of the bending planes of the bending electromagnets are selected, the two bending planes of at least one pair of bending planes are not on the same plane, not parallel with each other, and not perpendicular to each other.
US08664616B2
In a method of count correction for pixels of a pixilated photon counting detector, the average count value output by each of a plurality of pixels during a period of time is determined. A product is determined of the actual average count value and a multiplying correction factor. A corrected count value is then determined for the pixel equal to a sum of the product and an additive correction factor. The multiplying correction factor equals a square root of a quotient of a desired average count value to be output by each of the plurality of pixels during the period of time divided by the actual average count value. The additive correction factor equals a product of the multiplying correction factor and the actual average count value subtracted from the desired average count value.
US08664611B2
A positron emission tomography method and a device with application adaptability. The method includes: step 1, scanning a tested object for obtaining initial activity information of the tested object; step 2, programming and adjusting a detector module based on the result of the initial scan to obtain a new system structure, and rapidly calibrating the new system structure; step 3, performing a scan with the new system structure for obtaining activity information of the tested object; step 4, analyzing the activity information of the tested object obtained at step 3. If quality of the activity information can satisfy requirements of the application, the scan is finished; otherwise programming and adjusting the detector module is repeated, rapid calibration is performed, and the activity information of the tested object is obtained again with the new system structure until the activity information satisfies requirements.
US08664609B2
Systems and methods are described herein for performing three-dimensional imaging using backscattered photons generated from a positron-electron annihilation. The systems and methods are implemented using the pair of photons created from a positron-electron annihilation. The trajectory and emission time of one of the photons is detected near the annihilation event. Using this collected data, the trajectory of the second photon can be determined. The second photon is used as a probe photon and is directed towards a target for imaging. The interaction of the second probe photon with the target produces back scattered photons that can be detected and used to create a three-dimensional image of the target. The systems and methods described herein are particularly advantageous because they permit imaging with a system from a single side of the target, as opposed to requiring imaging equipment on both sides of the target.
US08664607B2
A radiological image detection apparatus includes: a phosphor which contains fluorescent material emitting fluorescence in response to radiation exposure; a sensor portion of thin-film type that is provided adjacent to a radiation entering side of the phosphor and supported by the phosphor and that detects fluorescence emitted by the phosphor; and a moisture preventing portion that covers at least a part of a rear face opposite to a phosphor side of the sensor portion so as to suppress entering of moisture into the sensor portion.
US08664603B2
An image forming apparatus includes an image forming section that forms an image on a recording material, a human detecting device that detects a person including an optical sensing unit that converts only an upward light of incident light to the optical sensing unit to an electric signal, and a controller unit that controls the image forming section based on the electric signal.
US08664602B2
An apparatus and method for a wafer level vacuum package uncooled microbolometer focal plane array (FPA) on a wafer level substrate with a thin film getter-reflector (G-R). The G-R removes gas from the vacuum package and is reflective in the frequency band of the FPA. Sensor pixels are supported about a quarter-wavelength above the G-R which is within the perimeter of the imaging array. The package is evacuated through a single aperture, and vacuum is maintained for the lifetime of the FPA. Imaging sensor size is reduced while maintaining resolution by reducing non-imaging area.
US08664596B2
A method for characterizing identified defects during charged particle beam inspection of a sample is disclosed. The method comprises obtaining a voltage contrast image of the sample by using a charged particle beam imaging apparatus at an inspection temperature; identifying, from the voltage contrast image, the presence of at least one defect on the sample; providing reference data of the sample, wherein the reference data represents at least one reference defect on the sample; comparing the location or geographical distribution of the identified defects and the reference defects on the sample to correlate the identified defects with the inspection temperature thereby characterizing the identified defects.
US08664594B1
The present disclosure provides an electron beam column with substantially improved resolution and/or throughput for inspecting manufactured substrates. The electron beam column comprises an electron gun, a scanner, an objective lens, and a detector. In accordance with one embodiment, the electron gun includes a gun lens having a flip-up pole piece configuration. In accordance with another embodiment, the scanner comprises a dual scanner having a pre-scanner and a main scanner, and the detector may be configured between the electron gun and the pre-scanner. In accordance with another embodiment, the electron beam column includes a continuously-variable aperture configured to select a beam current. Other embodiments relate to methods of using an electron beam column for automated inspection of manufactured substrates. In one embodiment, for example, an aperture size is adjusted to achieve a minimum spot size given a selected beam current and a column-condition domain being used.
US08664590B2
A method of processing a plurality of image charge/current signals representative of trapped ions undergoing oscillatory motion, e.g. for use in an ion trap mass spectrometer. The method includes producing a linear combination of the plurality of image charge/current signals using a plurality of predetermined coefficients, the predetermined coefficients having been selected so as to suppress at least one harmonic component of the image charge/current signals within the linear combination of the plurality of image charge/current signals.
US08664588B2
In the spectrometer, heavy loads are arranged centrally inside a case having a height smaller than a width, and having a depth smaller than the height. The heavy loads include a vacuum chamber, a vacuum pump which evacuates the vacuum chamber, a sample introduction unit which introduces a sample to be measured and evaporates the sample, an ionization unit which ionizes the evaporated sample and provides it to the vacuum chamber, and an ion detection unit which is connected to the vacuum chamber. Circuit board storage units which store a plurality of circuit boards with a predetermined space therebetween are formed on both sides along a width direction of the case.
US08664582B2
A display system can include a transparent layer. The transparent layer can include a front and a back. A bevel region can extend from the transparent layer. A panel can be on the back of the transparent layer. A three dimensional optical sensor can be on the back of the bevel region.
US08664581B2
An input/output device includes a pixel area; a light emission circuit provided in the pixel area and configured to emit light; and a photodetection circuit provided in the pixel area and configured to generate a voltage having a value corresponding to an intensity of incident light. The light emission circuit includes a drive transistor and a light emitting element. The light emitting element includes a first current terminal electrically connected to the source or the drain of the drive transistor and a second current terminal to which a first voltage is input, and emits light in accordance with a current flowing between the first and second current terminals. The light emission circuit includes a switching element including a first terminal to which a second voltage is input, and a second terminal electrically connected to the first current terminal of the light emitting element.
US08664572B2
A limited use or disposable nonwoven blanket including at least one spunlace layer having an inner surface and outer surface and at least one continuous filament layer having an inner surface and outer surface, wherein the outer surface of the continuous filament layer is metallized. The limited use or disposable nonwoven blanket further includes at least one heating element proximate to the metallized surface of the continuous filament layer.
US08664566B2
An arc welding apparatus includes a main power supply circuit for outputting an arc current, a control circuit for controlling the main power supply circuit, and a high-frequency voltage generating circuit for generating a high-frequency voltage. When an operation switch is turned on for a first time since the apparatus is powered on, the control circuit activates the main power supply circuit to output a high voltage, and the high-frequency voltage generating circuit to generate a high-frequency voltage. With the high voltage superimposed on the high-frequency voltage, the control circuit passes a welding arc current through a torch and a base material. The switch is then turned off, and the control circuit passes a pilot arc current through the torch and the base material. The switch is turned on again, and the control circuit activates the main power supply circuit to output a high voltage, thereby allowing smooth arc transition.
US08664563B2
A method for purging of, and debris removal from, a hole created with laser energy in which a swirling purge gas stream is provided in a hole containing debris to be removed, imparting a swirl to the debris and lifting the debris from a bottom of the hole. In accordance with one embodiment, the purge gas is swirled in a purge gas nozzle providing purge gas into the hole. In accordance with another embodiment of this invention, the purge gas is swirled directly in the hole.
US08664560B2
An exemplary method and apparatus for abating reaction products from a vacuum processing chamber includes a reaction chamber in fluid communication with the vacuum processing chamber, a coil disposed about the reaction chamber, and a power source for supplying RF energy to the coil. The coil creates a plasma in the reaction chamber which effectively breaks down stable reaction products from the vacuum processing chamber such as perfluorocarbons (PFCs) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) which significantly contribute to global warming. According to alternative embodiments, the plasma may be generated with grids or coils disposed in the reaction chamber perpendicular to the flow of reaction products from the vacuum processing chamber.
US08664548B2
A touch controller with improved diagnostics calibration and communication support includes a data capture register configured to sample data from one or a plurality of touch panel sense channels at an output of an analog to digital (A/D) converter. The sampled data is bit packed, and a demodulation waveform is captured, correlated with the sampled data. The contents of the data capture register, including the sampled data and the demodulation waveform, are transferred to a memory configured to create one or more records from the transferred contents. A processor can be used to extract the one or more records captured in the memory to display to a user for diagnostics or calibration.
US08664535B2
A wired circuit board includes a first insulating layer, a first wire formed on the first insulating layer, a second insulating layer formed on the first insulating layer so as to cover the first wire, and a second wire placed opposite to the first wire in a thickness direction and formed in a smaller width than that of the first wire.
US08664530B2
An improved conductive busbar assembly and power distribution track utilizing the improved conductive busbar assembly. The busbar assembly including an inner component adapted to engage a stab member of a plug-in unit and an outer component disposed about, and in contact with, the inner component. The inner and outer components are both formed from an electrically conductive material. The busbar assembly provides greater current-carrying capacity and permits take-off devices to be installed at any point along the busway run. (continuous access)
US08664524B2
Solar cell structures formed using molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) that can achieve improved power efficiencies in relation to prior art thin film solar cell structures are provided. A reverse p-n junction solar cell device and methods for forming the reverse p-n junction solar cell device using MBE are described. A variety of n-p junction and reverse p-n junction solar cell devices and related methods of manufacturing are provided. N-intrinsic-p junction and reverse p-intrinsic-n junction solar cell devices are also described.
US08664519B2
In one embodiment, a solar cell has base and emitter diffusion regions formed on the back side. The emitter diffusion region is configured to collect minority charge carriers in the solar cell, while the base diffusion region is configured to collect majority charge carriers. The emitter diffusion region may be a continuous region separating the base diffusion regions. Each of the base diffusion regions may have a reduced area to decrease minority charge carrier recombination losses without substantially increasing series resistance losses due to lateral flow of majority charge carriers. Each of the base diffusion regions may have a dot shape, for example.
US08664518B2
Provided is an organic photoelectric conversion element containing: a first electrode; a second electrode; and an organic photoelectric conversion layer sandwiched between the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the first electrode comprises: a conductive fiber layer; and a transparent conductive layer containing a conductive polymer comprising a π conjugated conductive polymer and a polyanion, and an aqueous binder, and at least a part of the transparent conductive layer containing the conductive polymer and the aqueous binder is cross-linked therein.
US08664517B2
A solar cell assembly and method are disclosed. The solar cell assembly comprises a substrate having a front surface and a back surface, wherein the substrate has a p-n junction providing reverse bias protection, and wherein the substrate functions as a bypass diode. The solar cell assembly further comprises a multijunction solar cell having a plurality of solar cell layers, wherein the multijunction solar cell has a first surface and a second surface, the first surface being attached to the front surface of the substrate. The solar cell assembly further comprises an electrical connector element positioned adjacent the front surface of the substrate and the first surface of the multijunction solar cell, a first contact coupled to the back surface of the substrate, and at least one second contact coupled to a portion of the second surface of the multijunction solar cell.
US08664514B2
Described is a light chamber for amplifying solar radiation for purposes of generating electricity using photovoltaic panels. The light chamber includes a housing; a photovoltaic panel disposed within the housing; a plurality of wedge-shaped reflectors disposed within the housing configured to rotate along one or two axes and can be directed by an integrated circuit controller; a dome lens affixed to the upper end of the housing; a fresnel lens disposed between the dome lens and the photovoltaic panel; a reflector disposed around the inner surface of the housing; and another reflector disposed at or near the lower end of the housing.
US08664510B2
The infrared ray absorbing film 2 is provided with a first layer 21 containing TiN and a second layer 22 containing an Si based compound, converting energy of infrared ray made incident from the second layer 22 to heat. TiN is high in absorption rate of infrared ray over a wavelength range shorter than 8 μm, while high in reflection rate of infrared ray over a wavelength range longer than 8 μm. Therefore, if an Si based compound layer excellent in absorption rate of infrared ray over a longer wavelength range is laminated on a TiN layer, infrared ray over a wavelength range lower in absorption rate on the TiN layer can be favorably absorbed on the Si based compound layer, and also infrared ray in an attempt to transmit the Si based compound layer can be reflected on a boundary surface of the TiN layer and returned to the Si based compound layer.
US08664506B2
An electronic percussion instrument including: a detecting section which is provided in a stick and detects acceleration and angular speed based on movement of the stick; a first timing generating section which generates beat timing based on a predetermined tempo and beat width; a first pre-sound-production movement detecting section which detects a pre-sound-production movement that is performed prior to sound production, based on the acceleration and the angular speed detected by the detecting section; and a sound production instructing section which instructs to produce a sound at the beat timing generated by the first timing generating section, when the first pre-sound-production movement detecting section detects the pre-sound-production movement.
US08664503B2
The invention provides an apparatus and method for notating music for a harmonica. The apparatus incorporates a vertical staff in which vertical lines or tracks represent individual notes, the length of which represents duration of the note, and the horizontal location represents the physical location of the corresponding hole in a harmonica. The invention provides a rapid means of learning to play a harmonica and, for experienced players, provides a means for sight reading a new piece of music. The invention further provides ways of representing the dynamics of both pitch and loudness and a convenient way to manually transcribe musical selection for archival purposes.
US08664501B2
A vocal tuning device for use with a microphone is provided, comprising a housing having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end includes a first connector operably matable with a microphone and capable of receiving an input signal from the microphone in response to a user's voice; a display on the housing capable of providing a visual indicia to a user; processing circuitry within the housing and operably connected between the first connector and the display, wherein the processing circuitry compares the frequency of the input signal to a natural note frequency, and causes the visual indicia to indicate whether the natural note frequency is matched by the frequency of the input signal. In one embodiment, the second end of the device includes a second connector operably matable with a microphone cable.
US08664494B2
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV494787. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV494787, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV494787 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV494787 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV494787.
US08664488B1
A novel maize variety designated X85C455 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X85C455 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X85C455 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X85C455, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X85C455. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X85C455.
US08664462B2
A method of processing feed streams high in hydrogen sulfide is provided. The method includes providing a feed gas stream that includes hydrocarbons and at least 5 vol % hydrogen sulfide. At least a portion of the feed gas stream is separated into a hydrogen sulfide stream and a hydrocarbon stream. The hydrocarbon gas stream is processed to produce natural gas. At least 34 mol. % of the hydrogen sulfide in the hydrogen sulfide stream is combusted with an oxidant to generate thermal power. Thermal power generated by the combustion is utilized in one or more of the steps of separating the feed gas stream into the hydrogen sulfide stream and the hydrocarbon gas stream, and processing the hydrocarbon gas stream to produce natural gas, compressed natural gas, or liquefied natural gas.
US08664453B2
A process and apparatus for recovering dichlorohydrins from a mixture comprising dichlorohydrins, one or more compounds selected from esters of dichlorohydrins, monochlorohydrins and/or esters thereof, and multihydroxylated-aliphatic hydrocarbon compounds and/or esters thereof, and optionally one or more substances comprising water, chlorinating agents, catalysts and/or esters of catalysts is disclosed. The mixture is distilled or fractionated to separate a lower boiling fraction comprising dichlorohydrin(s) from the mixture to form a higher boiling fraction comprising the residue of the distillation or fractionation. The higher boiling fraction is stripped to recover remaining dichlorohydrins. Advantages include more efficient recovery of dichlorohydrins for a given distillation column, less waste due to avoiding the conditions conducive to the formation of heavy byproducts, and reduced capital investment in recovery equipment.
US08664450B2
A process for the manufacture of gamma-delta-unsaturated ketones of formula (R1)(R2)C═CH—CH2—CH2—CO—R3 (I), wherein R1 is methyl or ethyl; R2 is a saturated or unsaturated linear or cyclic hydrocarbon residue and R3 is methyl or ethyl, by reacting a tertiary vinyl carbinol of formula (R1)(R2)C(OH)—CH═CH2 (II) with an isopropenyl methyl or ethyl ether of formula H3C—C(OR3)═CH2 (III) in the pre-sence of an ammonium salt as catalyst.
US08664449B2
The invention relates to a method for continuously producing 2-butanone from 2,3-butanediol in hot pressurized water having an added electrolyte, characterized in that a compound selected from among the group comprising Ce(SO4)2, Fe2(SO4)3, Al2(SO4) is used as the added electrolyte.
US08664439B2
Graphene, a method of fabricating the same, and a transistor having the graphene are provided, the graphene includes a structure of carbon (C) atoms partially substituted with boron (B) atoms and nitrogen (N) atoms. The graphene has a band gap. The graphene substituted with boron and nitrogen may be used as a channel of a field effect transistor. The graphene may be formed by performing chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method using borazine or ammonia borane as a boron nitride (B—N) precursor.
US08664436B2
The present invention relates to a solid bed adsorptive separation of organic acid and/or amino acids from fermentation broths containing organic acid and/or amino acid.
US08664434B2
A process for preparing aliphatic carboxylic acids having 3 to 10 carbon atoms by oxidizing the corresponding aldehydes with oxygen or oxygen-containing gases, characterized in that (i) the oxidation is performed in a microreactor at elevated pressure and with an oxygen excess based on the stoichiometrically required amount of oxygen, and (ii) in that the reaction mixture removed from the microreactor is passed through at least one postreactor without further addition of oxygen, and (iii) wherein the oxidation reaction in the microreactor is performed under such conditions that aldehyde and corresponding peracid formed are present in the reaction mixture removed in a molar ratio within a range of 1:(0.9 to 1.1), preferably of 1:(0.95 to 1.05).
US08664433B2
The compound 4-[3-(2,6-Dimethylbenzyloxy)phenyl]-4-oxobutanoic acid (DPA) is synthesized from 1-[3-(2,6-Dimethylbenzyloxy)-phenyl]-ethanone (DPE) via the intermediate 4-[3-(2,6-Dimethylbenzyloxy)phenyl]-4-oxobulanoic acid ethyl ester (DPAE).
US08664426B2
The present invention relates to compounds of formula I and II, which are functionalized amino acids, and polymers formed from the same. Polymers formed from the functionalized amino acids are expected to have controllable degradation profiles, enabling them to release an active component over a desired time range. The polymers are also expected to be useful in a variety of medical applications.
US08664425B2
Fluorescent compositions having emission under long UV excitation can be utilized as security taggants in printing inks. The fluorescent compositions can be esters of 2-naphthalenesulfonamide, and can be produced as solids in crystal or powder form.
US08664420B2
A process for producing zinc toluenesulfonate comprising reacting a zinc compound comprising Zn(OH)2 with toluenesulfonic acid and/or a salt thereof in the presence of an alcohol having 1 to 20 carbon atoms in total at a temperature higher than 60° C.
US08664414B2
According to the present invention, a process for producing an epoxy compound, where an epoxy compound can be selectively produced from olefins with good yield at low cost in a safe manner by a simple operation under mild conditions without using a quaternary ammonium salt or a metal compound, is provided. The present invention relates to a process for producing an epoxy compound, comprising epoxidizing a carbon-carbon double bond of an organic compound having a carbon-carbon double bond by using hydrogen peroxide as an oxidant, wherein the epoxidation is carried by out using an organic nitrile compound and an organic amine compound.
US08664413B2
An epoxy compound of high-purity N,N,N′,N′-tetraglycidyl-3,4′-diaminodiphenyl ether is produced by: an addition reaction step of reacting 3,4′-diaminodiphenyl ether with epichlorohydrin in a polar protic solvent at 65 to 100° C. for 12 hours or longer to form N,N,N′,N′-tetrakis(3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl)-3,4′-diaminodiphenyl ether; and a cyclization reaction step of reacting the N,N,N′,N′-tetrakis(3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl)-3,4′-diaminodiphenyl ether with an alkali compound for dehydrochlorination.
US08664408B2
Industrial synthesis process for, and crystalline form I of, the compound of formula (I): and also crystalline form I of the associated free base. Medicinal products containing the same which are useful in the treatment of disorders of the histaminergic system.
US08664404B2
A method for producing a 3-halo-1,2-benzisothiazole represented by the general formula (2): wherein R1 is a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, an alkoxycarbonyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, a nitro group or a halogen atom, and X is a halogen atom, the method characterized by reacting a 1,2-benzisothiazol-3-one represented by the general formula (1): wherein R1 is the same group as the R1 defined in the above general formula (2), with a thionyl halide in a polar solvent. The 3-halo-1,2-benzisothiazole obtainable according to the method of the present invention is suitably used as production raw materials and the like for a medicament and the like.
US08664399B2
The present invention relates to sodium channel inhibitors of Formula (I): in which R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, X, Y, and Z are as defined herein, and to their use in the treatment of various disease states, including cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. The invention also relates to methods for the preparation of the compounds, and to pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds.
US08664393B2
This invention relates to ruthenium complex-based photosensitizer dyes for dye-sensitized solar cells, which have a general structural formula represented by formula (I).
US08664391B2
The present invention relates to compounds of formula (I) that have CYP450 inhibiting properties and are useful as boosting agents when used with HIV treatments. These compounds are represented by formula including the salts and stereoisomeric forms thereof, wherein R1 is 5-thiazolyl or 3-pyridinyl; R2 is iso-butyl, 2,2-dimethylpropyl; 2-hydroxy-2-methyl-propyl or cyclohexylmethyl; R3 is phenyl optionally substituted with one or more halogens, trifluoromethyl, C1-6-alkyl or C1-6-alkoxy wherein optionally two of said alkoxy groups are be linked to each other to form a 5 or 6-membered ring; heteroaryl; C3-7cycloalkyl optionally substituted with one or more halogens; C1-6alkyl optionally substituted with heteroaryl; —O—CH2— (heteroaryl). As boosting agents they are able to increase at least one of the pharmacokinetic variables of certain drugs when co-administered, or improve the bioavailability of certain drugs. Methods for the preparation of the compounds of the invention and pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds are also provided.
US08664385B2
A family of three 8-alkyl boron dipyrromethenes 1, 2, and 3 has been prepared. These compounds are characterized by emission in the green region of the electromagnetic radiation spectrum and exhibit an almost double laser efficiency than other commercial dyes and much greater photostability. The 8-alkyl boron dipyrromethenes are prepared by catalytic hydrogenation (reduction) of the corresponding 8-alkenyl boron dipyrromethenes, which are obtained by Liebeskind-Srogl coupling of thiomethylboron dipyrromethene with an alkenyl boronic acid.
US08664384B2
The use of N6-(ferrocenmethyl)quinazoline-2,4,6-triamine (H2), its derivatives, and prodrugs that present antimicrobial (antibiotic, microbicide), antiparasitic (parasiticide), antiprotozoal (protozoacide), and antileishmanial (leishmanicide) activities, as well as its use as a drug in vertebrates (humans and animals).
US08664383B2
Disclosed is an organometallic complex capable of variable phosphorescence characteristics and yellow emission at high luminance The organometallic complex has a structure represented by a formula (G6), where at least one of R4, R5, R6, and R7 is a phenoxy group, M is a Group 9 metal or a Group 10 metal, and L is a monoanionic ligand.
US08664382B2
The present invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising metal phthalocyanine analogues of formula (I) and metal chelating compounds having a good bioavailability and enhanced photoinactivation properties against Gram negative bacteria; and to their use for in vivolex vivo applications, such as blood and blood derivatives sterilization.
US08664375B2
The invention provides a delivery system comprising a cell penetrating peptide, a polyarginine peptide, and an interfering RNA molecule. The system can be used for delivering interfering RNA molecules into a cell in vivo or in vitro. Therapeutic uses for the delivery system are also provided.
US08664365B2
The current invention relates to high-affinity antibodies to EphA3 that have reduced immunogenicity when administered to a human to treat diseases and method of using such antibodies.
US08664359B2
The invention is related to isoforms of components of transcription factor complexes that are specifically expressed in cancer cells. These isoforms can be used as biomarkers for detection, diagnosis, prognosis and monitoring of treatments of cancer, and as drug targets of pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment of various cancers expressing the targeted isoforms. Methods, molecules, materials and kits for these uses are disclosed.
US08664357B2
According to the present invention, there is provided a process for the preparation of a first compound selected from peptides, oligonucleotides and peptide nucleic acids. The process comprises synthesizing the first compound and then separating the first compound formed in step (i) from a second compound, which is a reaction by-product of the synthesis of the first compound and/or an excess of a reagent used for the synthesis of a first compound by a process of diafiltration. The membrane used for the diafiltration process is stable in organic solvents and provides a rejection for the first compound which is greater than the rejection for the second compound.
US08664351B2
The present invention provides a biaxially oriented polyester film for a backsheet of solar batteries which exhibits a good hydrolysis resistance and a low haze. The present invention relates to a biaxially oriented polyester film for a backsheet of solar batteries, comprising titanium in an amount of not more than 20 ppm in terms of a titanium atom, phosphorus in an amount of not more than 70 ppm in terms of a phosphorus atom, and antimony in an amount of not more than 10 ppm in terms of an antimony atom; and having a carboxyl end group content of not more than 26 equivalents/t and an intrinsic viscosity of 0.65 to 0.90.
US08664348B2
New triaminophenol compositions and related compounds are disclosed, as are processes for their preparation and for the preparation of novel salts and diacid complexes from such compounds. Polymers prepared from these compositions can be made into high strength fiber, film, and tape and are useful in applications such as protective apparel, aircraft, automotive components, personal electronics, and sports equipment.
US08664347B2
Silicone-polyether block copolymers are disclosed, having the average formula: R4R12Si(OR52Si)m{[R2O(CqH2qO)pR2R12Si(OR52Si)k]nR2O(CqH2qO)pR2R12Si)m}hOSiR12R4 wherein R1 is C1-C10 hydrocarbyl; R2 is C1-C10 hydrocarbylene; R3 is R1 or H; R4 is —R2—NR32 or —R2—NR3—R2—NR32; R5 is R1 or R4; h is 1 to 100; k is 2 to 500; m is 2 to 500; n is 0 to 30; p is 2 to 120; and q is 2 to 4. The silicone-polyether block copolymers comprise two terminal amine functionalities and may comprise varying degrees of pendent amine functionality. In a method for synthesizing linear silicone-polyether block copolymers of the above formula, a reaction mixture is formed by combining a polyether, an organosilicon component, an endblocking agent, and a catalyst. Thereupon, the reaction mixture is heated to produce a silicone-polyether block copolymer having at least one pendent amine functionality and a number-average molecular weight from 2000 to 500,000. Also disclosed are silicone-polyether block copolymers prepared according to the above method.
US08664334B2
A resin composition is described that is excellent in strength, impact resistance, heat resistance and moldability, while further allowing for a reduction in the amount of CO2 needed for its production. The resin composition includes a styrene-based resin (A), an aliphatic polyester (B) and at least one species selected from a compatibilizer (C) and a dicarboxylic anhydride (D), wherein the compatibilizer is preferably at least one species selected from:(C-1) a methyl methacrylate polymer; (C-2) a vinyl-based polymer to which an epoxy unit or acid anhydride unit is copolymerized; (C-3) a graft polymer in which a methyl methacrylate unit is grafted to a rubbery polymer; and (C-4) a block copolymer having a polylactide segment and a vinyl-based polymer segment.
US08664333B2
An object of the present invention is to provide a new acetoacetic ester group-containing polyvinyl alcohol-based resin that contains less amount of water-insoluble matter and is excellent in transparency and viscosity stability when converted into an aqueous solution, and that realizes excellent water resistance by combined use of a crosslinking agent. The invention provides an acetoacetic ester group-containing polyvinyl alcohol-based resin containing a structural unit represented by the general formula (1): wherein at least one of R1 and R2 represents an acetoacetyl group, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7 and R8 each independently represents an arbitrary substituent, and X represents a single bond or an arbitrary bonding chain.
US08664330B2
High green strength reactive hot melt adhesives are prepared using relatively low levels of reactive acrylic, and may be prepared with liquid crystalline or crystalline diols.
US08664325B2
Disclosed is a thermoplastic composition including a molding resin including (a-1) a poly(trimethylene terephthalate) resin, (a-2) 0 to 20 weight % of one or more organic additives; and (a-3) 0.1 to 4 weight % of one or more ionomer polymers or a combination of one or more ionomer polymers and acid copolymers; said ionomer polymers and acid copolymers having C3 to C8 carboxylic acid repeat units, and each ionomer and acid copolymer having: a weight %, W; a weight fraction of C3 to C8 carboxylic acid repeat units, Z, based on the weight of each ionomer or acid copolymer; and a neutralization ratio, N, equal to any value from 0 to 1.0; wherein said neutralization ratio N is the mol fraction of the carboxylic acid repeat units neutralized as an alkali metal salt, based on the total carboxylic acid repeat units in said ionomer and acid copolymers; and said each ionomer and acid polymer wt % W is based on the weight of components (a-1), (a-2) and (a-3); and said molding resin has an alkali carboxylate factor, ACF, of 4 to about 14; wherein said ACF is defined by the formula (I): ACF=Σa-i[(W·Z·N)a-i(W·N)a-i·100/Σa-i(W)a-i] (I).
US08664320B2
A film composition comprising one or more propylene-based polymers and one or more hydrocarbon resins, and methods for making the same are provided. The propylene-based polymer may have (i) 60 wt % or more units derived from propylene, (ii) isotactically arranged propylene derived sequences, and (iii) a heat of fusion less than 65 J/g. The hydrocarbon resin may have a glass transition temperature greater than 20° C.
US08664313B2
The present invention provides a method of producing, in an industrially advantageous manner, an ethylene/vinyl alcohol copolymer aqueous dispersion which has a high concentration and is excellent in long-term storage stability and in which the resin particles in the aqueous dispersion obtained are small in particle diameter. The method of the present invention relates to producing an ethylene/vinyl alcohol copolymer aqueous dispersion, which comprises: (1) a step of dissolving an ethylene/vinyl alcohol copolymer in a mixed solvent comprising 5 to 65% by weight of water and 35 to 95% by weight of a water-soluble organic solvent, with heating, (2) a step of cooling a solution obtained in step (1) to precipitate the ethylene/vinyl alcohol copolymer, (3) a step of reducing a concentration of the water-soluble organic solvent in the mixed solvent to a level lower than 35% by weight relative to the total amount of the water and water-soluble organic solvent by adding water, and (4) a step of distilling off the water-soluble organic solvent.
US08664295B2
Described is a polymeric compound comprising a polyvinyl alcohol, a carbohydrate, and a polyacrylic acid, in which compound the carbohydrate is present as a cross-linking agent which cross-links chains of polyvinyl alcohol and/or chains of polyacrylic acid. The novel compound has interesting properties as an alternative to known plastics materials. It is biologically degradable, has a reduced content of fossil starting material, and exhibits hardness and flexibility properties useful for widespread applications, such as packaging material and coatings. In addition, a method for producing the polymeric compound is disclosed.
US08664291B2
Provided is an ultraviolet-curable ink jet ink composition with excellent curability and storage stability, the composition containing a monomer A represented by Formula (I): CH2═CR1—COOR2—O—CH═CH—R3 (wherein R1 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, R2 represents a C2-C20 divalent organic residue, and R3 represents a hydrogen atom or a C1-C11 monovalent organic residue); a (meth)acrylated amine compound; a hindered amine compound other than the (meth)acrylated amine compound; and a photopolymerization initiator.
US08664287B2
Photocuring methods are made more efficient by using an N-oxyazinium salt photoinitiator with an organic phosphine as a photoinitiator efficiency amplifier. This photoinitiator composition can be used to cure acrylates or other photocurable compounds, particularly in an oxygen-containing environment. The method can be used to prepare various articles, fibers, or devices with photocured compositions.
US08664279B2
The present embodiments disclose the preparation of hyperpolarized 13C dialkyl succinate compounds and hyperpolarized 13C dialkyl fumarate compounds and their use in real time, in vivo metabolic imaging of the TCA cycle.
US08664273B2
The present invention relates to antiviral therapies and compositions for treating or preventing Hepatitis C infections in patients and relates to other methods disclosed herein. The invention also relates to kits and pharmaceutical packs comprising compositions and dosage forms. The invention also relates to processes for preparing these compositions, dosages, kits, and packs.
US08664267B2
Disclosed herein are parenteral solutions containing 3-diethylaminoethoxy benzoyl-benzofurans, such as amiodarone, in a diluent NNDMA (N,N-Dimethylacetamide) useful in the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias both supraventricular, ventricular as well as, the condition of cardiac arrest.
US08664255B2
The present invention provides aryl- or heteroaryl-diketo acid compounds effective to inhibit an activity of a Mycobacterial malate synthase enzyme or to inhibit a malate synthase activity in other bacteria having the enzyme. The compounds may be phenyl- naphthyl-, or thienyl-substituted diketo acids and carboxylate derivatives thereof. Also provided are methods of treating tuberculosis or other pathophysiological conditions associated with a malate synthase enzyme with the inhibitory compounds and methods of in silico design of the inhibitory compounds. In addition, the present invention provides the inhibitory compounds designed by this method. Furthermore, three-dimensional X-ray crystal structures of the Mycobacterial malate synthase complexed with the inhibitory compounds are provided. Further still a method for stabilizing an aromatic or heteroaromatic diketo acid or its prodrug or close analog in solution by derivatizing at least the ortho position on the aromatic ring is provided.
US08664254B2
The invention is directed to compounds having the formula: wherein: Ar, r, R2-3, X, and R5-7 are as defined in the specification, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. These compounds have AT1 receptor antagonist activity and neprilysin inhibition activity. The invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds; methods of using such compounds; and process and intermediates for preparing such compounds.
US08664245B2
The disclosure relates to fumarate salts of 2-(cyclohexylmethyl)-N-{2-[(2S)-1-methylpyrrolidin-2-yl]ethyl}-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline-7-sulfonamide, to pharmaceutical compositions thereof, processes for making the same, and methods of use thereof.
US08664242B2
The invention provides novel 8-azabicyclo[3.2.1]octane compounds of formula (I): wherein R1, R2, R3, A, and G are defined in the specification, or a pharmaceutically-acceptable salt or solvate thereof, that are antagonists at the mu opioid receptor. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds, methods of using such compounds to treat conditions associated with mu opioid receptor activity, and processes and intermediates useful for preparing such compounds.
US08664230B2
The invention provides novel substituted pyridopyrimidines represented by Formula I or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, polymorph, ester, tautomer or prodrug thereof, and a composition comprising these compounds. The compounds provided can be used as inhibitors of the phosphoinositide 3′ OH kinase family (PI3K) for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, allergy, asthma and autoimmune disorders.
US08664226B2
Disclosed is a compound which has both an angiotensin-II receptor antagonistic activity and a PPARγ activation activity and is useful as a prophylactic and/or therapeutic agent for hypertension, heart diseases, angina pectoris, cerebrovascular disorders, cerebral circulatory disorders, ischemic peripheral circulatory disorders, renal diseases, arteriosclerosis, inflammatory diseases, type-2 diabetes, diabetic complications, insulin resistance syndrome, syndrome X, metabolic syndrome and hyperinsulinemia. [In the formula, A represents a 5- to 10-membered heteroaryl group; R1 and R2 independently represent a C1-6 alkyl group; and each of R3 to R5 is absent or represents H, a halogen atom, OH, NO2, a halo-C1-6 alkyl group, a (substituted) C1-6 alkoxy group, a (substituted) C3-6 cycloalkyloxy group, or a 5- to 10-membered heteroaryl group.]
US08664223B2
This invention comprises the novel compounds of formula (I) wherein R1, R2, R3 and X have defined meanings, having histone deacetylase inhibiting enzymatic activity; their preparation, compositions containing them and their use as a medicine.
US08664212B2
The invention relates to diazo bicyclic mimetics of Smac which function as inhibitors of Inhibitor of Apoptosis Proteins. The invention also relates to the use of these mimetics for inducing apoptotic cell death and for sensitizing cells to inducers of apoptosis.
US08664203B2
The present invention relates to thiazole derivatives of formula I and their use as P2Y12 receptor antagonists in the treatment and/or prevention of peripheral vascular, of visceral-, hepatic- and renal-vascular, of cardiovascular and of cerebrovascular diseases or conditions associated with platelet aggregation, including thrombosis in humans and other mammals.
US08664202B2
The present invention is directed to a stabilized cross-linked hydrogel matrix comprising a first high molecular weight component and a second high molecular weight component that are covalently linked, and at least one stabilizing or enhancing agent, wherein the first high molecular weight component and the second high molecular weight component are each selected from the group consisting of polyglycans and polypeptides. This stabilized hydrogel matrix may be prepared as bioactive gels, pastes, slurries, cell attachment scaffolds for implantable medical devices, and casting or binding materials suitable for the construction of medical devices. The intrinsic bioactivity of the hydrogel matrix makes it useful as a gel or paste in multiple applications, including as a cell attachment scaffold that promotes wound healing around an implanted device, as gels and pastes for induction of localized vasculogenesis, wound healing, tissue repair, and regeneration, as a wound adhesive, and for tissue bulking.
US08664197B2
Ophthalmic solutions containing arabinogalactans with a protective activity on the corneal epithelium, particularly suitable for use as artificial tears stimulating the recovery of corneal lesions and also particularly useful for contact lens users, containing from 1% to 10% by weight of arabinogalactan in an aqueous solution and possible other excipients, among which tonicity-adjusting agents, pH correctors, buffers and preservatives, except for benzalkonium chloride.The compositions according to the invention have a virtually negligible viscosity, but are sufficiently mucoadhesive to assure a considerable permanence time in the area of application. Besides being well-tolerated, the aforesaid compositions have considerable re-epithelization capacity.
US08664196B2
The present invention provides a shark-like chondroitin sulphate and a process for the preparation thereof. In particular, the present invention relates to a shark-like chondroitin sulphate, having a very low amount of 4-sulphate, a high charge density and a biological activity comparable to natural chondroitin sulphates. The invention also relates to a process for the preparation of said shark-like chondroitin sulphate affording substantially higher productivities and better reproducibility of product quality. The shark-like chondroitin sulphate of the invention shows a high molecular mass and its in vitro biological and anti-inflammatory effectiveness has been shown to be comparable to that of natural products making this polysaccharide potentially useful as a drug in pharmaceutical preparations and nutraceuticals.
US08664180B2
Ophthalmic composition that includes 0.05% w/v to 2% w/v diglycine or a salt thereof; 0.01 ppm to 3 ppm poly(hexamethylene biguanide); 1 ppm to 10 ppm α-[4-tris(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium chloride-2-butenyl]poly[1-dimethylammonium chloride-2-butenyl]-ω-tris(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium chloride; and 0.1% w/v to 2% w/v of one or more boron buffering compounds.
US08664173B2
The present invention is directed to a premoistened, disposable, cleaning substrate to improve dirt pick-up and to retard redeposition of the dirt back onto the cleaned leather surface. The said substrate is incorporated therein with a cleaning composition to improve cleaning and impart protection and/or preservation of the leather surface or article. The said substrate is further incorporated therein with UV absorbers to further protect the leather surface, improve appearance and durability. The impregnated substrate can be employed to clean leather surfaces such as furniture, clothing, shoes, belts, automobile upholstery and the like. In addition, a method of preserving a leather surface or article by contacting said surface with said substrate is disclosed.
US08664171B2
This invention relates to products useful in friction-reducing extreme-pressure lubricating applications such as internal combustion engines, gear oils and applications which involve rubbing metallic moving parts. The invention includes additive blends and a process of using synergistic combinations of nitro compounds with non-chlorine containing additives such as sulfur-containing moieties and phosphorus-containing moieties.
US08664169B2
The present disclosure relates to lubricating compositions for transmissions, in particular for gear boxes, and to the use thereof for limiting the fuel consumption of motor vehicles. The compositions according to the disclosure are suitable for all types of vehicles, especially light vehicles, and are particularly suitable for hybrid engine vehicles.
US08664144B2
A method of reactivating a spent catalyst comprising a metal and a catalyst support, the method comprising redispersing the metal in the spent catalyst to produce a redispersed spent catalyst, contacting the redispersed spent catalyst with a reactivating composition to produce a redispersed, reactivated spent catalyst, and thermally treating the redispersed, reactivated spent catalyst to produce a reactivated catalyst. A method comprising employing a fresh aromatization catalyst in one or more reaction zones for a time period sufficient to produce a spent catalyst, reducing the amount of carbonaceous material associated with the spent catalyst to produce a decoked spent catalyst, contacting the decoked spent catalyst with a redispersing composition to produce a decoked redispersed spent, contacting the decoked redispersed spent catalyst with a reactivating composition to produce a decoked redispersed reactivated spent catalyst, and thermally treating the decoked, reactivated spent catalyst to produce a reactivated catalyst.
US08664137B2
A regenerating method for activated alumina used in regenerating working fluid of hydrogen peroxide comprises the following steps: adding deactivated alumina discharged from a regenerating bed for working fluid of hydrogen peroxide into a reactor through the top of the reactor and settling by gravity, oxidizing atmosphere entering into the reactor from the bottom of the reactor and running upwardly, then discharging exit gas and regenerated alumina through the discharge port on the top and discharging device on the bottom of the reactor respectively. The method is economic, environment-protective, safe, low-costly. The regenerated alumina will not poison palladium catalyst.
US08664136B2
A sintered body includes an indium oxide crystal, and an oxide solid-dissolved in the indium oxide crystal, the oxide being oxide of one or more metals selected from the group consisting of aluminum and scandium, the sintered body having an atomic ratio “(total of the one or more metals)/(total of the one or more metals and indium)×100)” of 0.001% or more and less than 45%.
US08664123B2
There is provided a method for manufacturing a nitride semiconductor substrate, comprising: etching and flattening a surface of a nitride semiconductor substrate disposed facing a surface plate, by using the surface plate having a surface composed of any one of Ni, Ti, Cr, W, and Mo or nitride of any one of them, disposing the surface of the surface plate and a flattening surface of a nitride semiconductor substrate proximately so as to be faced each other, and supplying gas containing at least hydrogen and ammonia between the surface of the surface plate and the surface of the nitride semiconductor substrate, wherein the surface plate and the nitride semiconductor substrate facing each other are set in a high temperature state of 900° C. or more.
US08664119B2
A semiconductor device manufacturing method, comprising: providing a semiconductor substrate, on which a gate conductor layer as well as a source region and a drain region positioned on both sides of the gate conductor layer are provided, forming an etch stop layer on the semiconductor substrate, forming an LTO layer on the etch stop layer, chemical mechanical polishing the LTO layer, forming an SOG layer on the polished LTO layer, the etch stop layer, LTO layer and SOG layer forming a front metal insulating layer, back etching the SOG layer and etch stop layer of the front metal insulating layer to expose the gate conductor layer, and removing the gate conductor layer.
US08664116B2
Ions of silicon are implanted into source/drain regions in a semiconductor wafer to amorphize an ion implantation region in the semiconductor wafer. A nickel film is deposited on the amorphized ion implantation region. First irradiation from a flash lamp is performed on the semiconductor wafer with the nickel film deposited thereon to increase the temperature of a front surface of the semiconductor wafer from a preheating temperature to a target temperature for a time period in the range of 1 to 20 milliseconds. Subsequently, second irradiation from the flash lamp is performed to maintain the temperature of the front surface of the semiconductor wafer within a ±25° C. range around the target temperature for a time period in the range of 1 to 100 milliseconds. This causes nickel silicide to grow preferentially in a direction perpendicular to the semiconductor wafer.
US08664110B2
A method of forming a semiconductor device includes, but is not limited to, the following processes. A first interlayer insulating film is formed. A hole is formed in the first interlayer insulating film. A second interlayer insulating film is formed, which buries the hole and covers the first interlayer insulating film. An interconnect groove is formed by selectively etching the second interlayer insulating film to leave the second interlayer insulating film in the hole. The second interlayer insulating film in the hole is removed.
US08664109B2
A method of forming a carbon-rich silicon carbide-like dielectric film having a carbon concentration of greater than, or equal to, about 30 atomic % C and a dielectric constant of less than, or equal to, about 4.5 is provided. The dielectric film may optionally include nitrogen. When nitrogen is present, the carbon-rich silicon carbide-like dielectric film has a concentration nitrogen that is less than, or equal, to about 5 atomic % nitrogen.
US08664105B2
A method for processing a wafer with a wafer bevel that surrounds a central region is provided. The wafer is placed in a bevel plasma processing chamber. A protective layer is deposited on the wafer bevel without depositing the protective layer over the central region. The wafer is removed from the bevel plasma processing chamber. The wafer is further processed.
US08664102B2
A semiconducting device with a dual sidewall spacer and method of forming are provided. The method includes: depositing a first spacer layer over a patterned structure, the first spacer layer having a seam propagating through a thickness of the first spacer layer near an interface region of a surface of the substrate and a sidewall of the patterned structure, etching the first spacer layer to form a residual spacer at the interface region, where the residual spacer coats less than the entirety of the sidewall of the patterned structure, depositing a second spacer layer on the residual spacer and on the sidewall of the patterned structure not coated by the residual spacer, the second spacer layer being seam-free on the seam of the residual spacer, and etching the second spacer layer to form a second spacer coating the residual spacer and coating the sidewall of the patterned structure not coated by the residual spacer.
US08664100B2
A first facet of each of a plurality of pyramids on a surface of a workpiece is doped to a first dose while a second facet and a third facet of each of the plurality of pyramids is simultaneously doped to a second dose different than the first dose. The first facets may enable low resistance contacts and the second and third facets may enable higher current generation and an improved blue response. Ion implantation may be used to perform the doping.
US08664099B2
The present invention discloses a MEMS device with particles blocking function, and a method for making the MEMS device. The MEMS device comprises: a substrate on which is formed a MEMS device region; and a particles blocking layer deposited on the substrate.
US08664094B2
The present invention relates to the growing of nitride semiconductors, applicable for a multitude of semiconductor devices such as diodes, LEDs and transistors. According to the method of the invention nitride semiconductor nanowires are grown utilizing a CVD based selective area growth technique. A nitrogen source and a metal-organic source are present during the nanowire growth step and at least the nitrogen source flow rate is continuous during the nanowire growth step. The V/III-ratio utilized in the inventive method is significantly lower than the V/III-ratios commonly associated with the growth of nitride based semiconductor.
US08664091B2
A method for removing a metallic nanotube, which is formed on a substrate in a first direction, includes forming a plurality of conductors in a second direction crossing the first direction, electrically contacting the plurality of conductors with metallic nanotube, respectively, forming at least two voltage-applying electrodes on the conductors, each of which electrically contacting at least one of the conductors, and applying voltages to at least some of the conductors through the voltage-applying electrodes, respectively. Among the conductors to which the voltages are respectively applied, every two adjacent conductors have an electrical potential difference created therebetween, so as to burn out the metallic nanotube.
US08664084B2
A method for making a thin-film element includes epitaxially growing a first crystalline layer on a second crystalline layer of a support where the second crystalline layer is a material different from the first crystalline layer, the first crystalline layer having a thickness less than a critical thickness. A dielectric layer is formed on a side of the first crystalline layer opposite to the support to form a donor structure. The donor structure is assembled with a receiver layer and the support is removed.
US08664082B2
The invention pertains to a combination of a substrate and a wafer, wherein the substrate and the wafer are arranged parallel to one another and bonded together with the aid of an adhesive layer situated between the substrate and the wafer, and wherein the adhesive is chosen such that its adhesive properties are neutralized or at least diminished when a predetermined temperature is exceeded. According to the invention, the adhesive layer is only applied annularly between the substrate and the wafer in the edge region of the wafer.
US08664080B2
A method for forming a vertical electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection device includes depositing a multi-layer n-type epitaxial layer on a substrate having p-type surface including first epitaxial depositing to form a first n-type epitaxial layer on the p-type surface, and second epitaxial depositing to form a second n-type epitaxial layer formed on the first n-type epitaxial layer. The first type epitaxial layer has a peak doping level which is at least double that of the second n-type epitaxial layer. A p+ layer is formed on the second n-type epitaxial layer. An etch step etches through the p+ layer and multi-layer n-type epitaxial layer to reach the substrate to form a trench. The trench is filled with a filler material to form a trench isolation region. A metal contact is formed on the p+ layer for providing contact to the p+ layer.
US08664079B2
The disclosure relates to integrated circuit fabrication, and more particularly to a method for fabricating a semiconductor device. An exemplary method for fabricating the semiconductor device comprises providing a substrate; forming pad oxide layers over a frontside and a backside of the substrate; forming hardmask layers over the pad oxide layers on the frontside and the backside of the substrate; and thinning the hardmask layer over the pad oxide layer on the frontside of the substrate.
US08664075B2
A dual node dielectric trench capacitor includes a stack of layers formed in a trench. The stack of layers include, from bottom to top, a first conductive layer, a first node dielectric layer, a second conductive layer, a second node dielectric layer, and a third conductive layer. The dual node dielectric trench capacitor includes two back-to-back capacitors, which include a first capacitor and a second capacitor. The first capacitor includes the first conductive layer, the first node dielectric layer, the second conductive layer, and the second capacitor includes the second conductive layer, the second node dielectric layer, and the third conductive layer. The dual node dielectric trench capacitor can provide about twice the capacitance of a trench capacitor employing a single node dielectric layer having a comparable composition and thickness as the first and second node dielectric layers.
US08664072B2
In sophisticated P-channel transistors, which may frequently suffer from a pronounced surface topography of the active regions with respect to the surrounding isolation regions, superior performance may be achieved by using a tilted implantation upon forming the deep drain and source regions, preferably with the tilt angle of 20 degrees or less, thereby substantially avoiding undue lateral dopant penetration into sensitive channel areas.
US08664070B2
A method for fabricating an integrated circuit device is disclosed. An exemplary method comprises performing a gate replacement process to form a gate structure, wherein the gate replacement process includes an annealing process; after the annealing process, removing portions of a dielectric material layer to form a contact opening, wherein a portion of the substrate is exposed; forming a silicide feature on the exposed portion of the substrate through the contact opening; and filling the contact opening to form a contact to the exposed portion of the substrate.
US08664068B2
The drain and source regions may at least be partially formed by in situ doped epitaxially grown semiconductor materials for complementary transistors in sophisticated semiconductor devices designed for low power and high performance applications. To this end, cavities may be refilled with in situ doped semiconductor material, which in some illustrative embodiments also provides a desired strain in the channel regions of the complementary transistors.
US08664059B2
A method includes forming a shallow trench isolation (STI) region in a substrate; depositing a first material such that the first material overlaps the STI region and a portion of a top surface of the STI region is exposed; etching a recess in the STI region by a first etch, the recess having a bottom and sides; depositing a second material over the first material and on the sides and bottom of the recess in the STI region; and etching the first and second material by a second etch to form a floating gate of the device, wherein the floating gate extends into the recess.
US08664046B2
In a semiconductor device, a lead frame made of a copper alloy prevents exfoliation occurring near the surface of the lead frame. A copper oxide layer is formed on the base material made of a copper alloy by immersing the base material into a solution of a strong oxidizer. The copper oxide layer serves as an outermost layer and consists of a copper oxide other than a copper oxide in the form of needle crystals.
US08664045B2
A process of manufacturing an LED lamp strip includes the steps of forming a plurality of through holes on an adhesive tape, mounting the adhesive tape to a top side of a scrollable lead frame, bonding a plurality of LED chips to the top side of the scrollable lead frame according to the positions of the through holes, packaging the LED chips respectively, and finally cutting the scrollable lead frame. In light of this, the LED lamp strip can be produced under the circumstances of low production cost and less production time.
US08664037B2
Disclosed are a method for forming a metal oxide pattern and a method of manufacturing a thin film transistor using the patterned metal oxide. The method for forming a metal oxide pattern includes: preparing an ink composition including at least one metal oxide precursor or metal oxide nanoparticle, and a solvent; ejecting the ink composition on a substrate to form a pattern on the substrate; and photosintering the formed pattern. Herein, the metal oxide precursor is ionic.
US08664034B2
A method for manufacturing a solar cell (100) includes the steps of: a step of cleaning an exposed region (R2) on a rear surface of an n-type crystalline silicon substrate (10n), wherein the step is carried out subsequent to a step of patterning an i-type amorphous semiconductor layer (11i) and a p-type amorphous semiconductor layer (11p) and prior to a step of forming an i-type amorphous semiconductor layer (12i).
US08664018B2
The disclosure provides a manufacturing method for an LED package. A first luminescent conversion layer comprising one first luminescent conversion element is located on an LED chip, wherein the first luminescent conversion element is precipitated via centrifugation around the LED chip without sheltering the LED chip. Thereafter, a second luminescent conversion layer is located on the first luminescent conversion layer. The second luminescent layer has a second luminescent conversion element which has an excited efficiency lower that that of the first luminescent conversion element.
US08664010B2
An MTJ element is formed in a wiring layer located in a lower tier and yet application of heat to the MTJ element is suppressed. A first insulating layer is formed over a substrate. Subsequently, the MTJ element is formed over the first insulating layer. After that a first wiring is formed over the MTJ element. Thereafter, a second insulating layer is formed over the first wiring. Then a second wiring is formed in the superficial layer of the second insulating layer. The second wiring is heat treated by photoirradiation. A shield conductor is formed at the step of forming the second wiring.
US08664004B2
The present invention relates to the monitoring of contaminant concentrations in manufacturing processes that employ fluid purification devices. The invention provides a sensitive method for analyzing contaminant concentrations in a process fluid stream using purification material to adsorb contaminants contained therein over an entire process.
US08664003B2
A chip useful for treating cells and the like which has a mechanism and a structure wherein the size of a hole pattern is arbitrarily changed so that cells can easily move in and get out from the hole in scattering or collecting cells but can hardly get out from the hole during washing or antigen-stimulation. The chip comprises a crosslinked product of a temperature-responsive polymer as a constituting member and being provided with a film having a hole pattern on the surface of a baseboard. A method of producing the chip comprises applying a composition containing a crosslinkable temperature-responsive polymer on the surface of a baseboard to thereby form a coating film, crosslinking the coating film to thereby form the crosslinked product as described above and then forming a hole pattern on the coating film of the crosslinked product.
US08664001B2
An immunochemical filter device which has filter material attached to a support member (such as a cap) which is, in turn, attachable to a sample collection vessel. The filter material includes a labeled binding reagent that is released from the filter material into solution by migration of a liquid sample solution through the filter material. The mixture of the sample solution and the labeled specific binding reagent is transferred to an analyzer device for performance of a method for determining the presence or absence of an analyte in a sample solution.
US08663979B2
A culture apparatus comprising: an inner box configured to form a culture chamber; an outer box configured to cover the inner box; a fan configured to circulate gas inside the culture chamber through an air passage provided in the inner box within the culture chamber; a first through hole configured to penetrate a wall configuring a part of the air passage in the inner box; a second through hole configured to penetrate the wall and disposed at a position at which a flow velocity of the gas circulated through the air passage by the fan is lower than a flow velocity of the gas around the first through hole; a connecting pipe configured to connect the first through hole and the second through hole outside of the inner box; and a sensor configured to detect a concentration of the gas flowing in the culture chamber.
US08663970B1
The invention provides a yeast strain and a method for making the same. The method has the step of replacing the regulation region upstream of the hsp104 gene in the genome of the yeast, so as to accelerate and prolong the expression span of hsp104 gene and enhance the capability of the yeast to ferment and produce ethanol in a high-temperature environment. The yeast is capable of fermenting glucose at a temperature higher than 42° C. to produce ethanol, or biomass ethanol, wherein the ethanol production ratio based on fermentation of glucose is higher than 97%. Being able to synchronize the degradation/hydrolysis stage and fermentation stage of biomass ethanol producing process, the yeast in accordance with the present invention is able to lower the production cost of biomass ethanol and further raise the productivity with its high ethanol production ratio.
US08663967B2
The present invention relates to an arginine deiminase mutant with partial lysine-deficient and preparation and application thereof. The arginine deiminase mutant of the present invention has enzymatic activity of degrading arginine into citruline; compared with the arginine deiminase with the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1, the amino acid sequence comprises one or more of K9N, T, K59Q, K66R, A, K93E, A, Q, K111R, A, K119Q, L, M, K121Q, I, K122E, L, K126E, S, R, K178I, E, D, K196I, R, K209G, T, D, K243E, V, R, K249D, Q, K263N, Q, K279Y, T, K293R, H, E, K325V, I, K380T, R, E, and K406E, D, S substitutions. Compared with PEG modified natural derived arginine deiminase, the PEG modified arginine deiminase mutant of the present invention retain better bioactivity; and because the quantity of lysine in arginine deiminase is reduced, the PEG modified products are more uniform and can be applied to clinical treatment of hepatoma, melanoma and the like.
US08663956B2
Provided herein are host cells comprising carbonic anhydrase activity, wherein the cells are capable of producing C4-dicarboxylic acid. Also provided are methods of producing C4-dicarboxylic acid comprising (a) cultivating the host cells having carbonic anhydrase activity in a medium under suitable conditions to produce C4-dicarboxylic acid; and (b) recovering the C4-dicarboxylic acid.
US08663952B2
A method of producing corn starch by enzymatic process involving: soaking the corn; crushing the corn, separating and washing embryo; fine grinding; washing and drying fiber; separating and drying protein; washing, dewatering and drying the starch. An enzyme preparation is added before the step of washing, dewatering and drying the starch; the enzyme preparation is cellulose, or xylanase, or combination of the cellulose and the xylanase; and addition of the enzyme preparation is from 0.001% to 0.08% by weight of the corn. Based on the technology of traditional wet process, the method of the present invention comprises a step of adding enzyme preparation in the process of separating the corn, which improves the effect and the efficiency of mechanical separation, and further improves the purity and yield of the substance separated while also reducing the energy consumption.
US08663950B2
The present invention describes the plant-based production of a therapeutic antibody against West Nile Virus.
US08663945B2
The invention describes improved methods and compositions for producing a recombinant protein, e.g., an antibody, in mammalian cell culture. In addition, the invention provides improved cell culture media, including improved production media, feed solutions, and combination feeds, which may be used to improve protein productivity in mammalian cell culture.
US08663942B2
The present invention pertains to the field of tools for ensuring manufacture of polypeptides and quality control. Specifically, it relates to a method for determining the amount of processed (active) neurotoxin polypeptides in a solution comprising processed neurotoxin polypeptides and partially processed or unprocessed neurotoxin polypeptides. The present invention further relates to a device for determining the amount of neurotoxin polypeptides and a kit adapted to carry out the method of the present invention.
US08663932B2
The present disclosure relates to methods for identifying proteins or peptide motifs of intracellular, extracellular, or extracellular matrix proteins specifically exposed in wound sites, as well as compositions for treating wounds, and methods for their use.
US08663930B2
The invention relates to the field of medicinal research, cartilage physiology and diseases involving the degeneration of cartilage tissue. More specifically, the invention relates to methods and means for identifying compounds that inhibit catabolic processes in chondrocytes and that decrease the degradation of cartilage and/or ECM. The invention also relates to the compounds that are useful in the treatment of osteoarthritis. The invention also relates to targets, the modulation of which results in a decrease in the degradation of ECM and/or cartilage and decrease inflammation. In addition, the invention relates to compositions and methods for the use thereof in treating conditions that are characterized by the degradation of ECM and/or cartilage and inflammation.
US08663923B2
A nucleotide probe permitting the detection of nucleic acids and constituted of a labeled nucleotide strand having three fragments: a first fragment having a first closing sequence, a second fragment, all or part of which has a recognition sequence for the molecular recognition of the target nucleic acid and a third fragment having a second closing sequence, and at least two markers, one of the ends of the strand of the detection probe being free of any marker, in which, when the two closing sequences are hybridized together, the detection probe has a completely circular shape, the closing sequences thus maintaining the probe in a conformation that cannot be detected in the absence of the target nucleic acid.
US08663909B2
This invention describes a device consisting of a micro channel plate, filter, and porous holder for filter, which is substituted by a pure agar block during method performance, and supportive structural elements. The device is intended for rapid detection and/or identification of microorganisms. Microorganisms are trapped by filtration in long (diameter/length=1/10-1/100), cylindrical, parallel, micro-channels that are open from both sides and attached to a filter from one side. A micro channel plate houses a multiplicity of micro channels (possible diameter of each channel=1-30 μm, length 100-1000 μm, and number on centimeter2=100,000-1,000,000). The micro channel plate with cells trapped on the surface of the filter is attached to an agar block impregnated by artificial substrate(s) so that the molecules of the artificial substrates will fill all micro channels. Trapped cells produce colored or fluorescent molecules from artificial substrates. These molecules are collected in the very small volume of a micro channel. The extremely small volume of a micro channel (1/25 million part of milliliter) allows it to collect a detectable concentration of color or fluorescent substances in a very short time (several minutes). Even one cell from a filtrated sample can be detected by the enzyme—artificial substrate method and/or identified by enzyme immunoassay.
US08663903B2
Disclosed is a top coating composition formed on a resist film, for protecting the resist film, the top coating composition being a top coating composition for photoresist, characterized by containing a fluorine-containing polymer having a repeating unit represented by the following general formula (1). This composition is capable of controlling developing solution solubility and has a high water repellency. [In the formula, R1 represents a hydrogen atom, fluorine atom, methyl group or trifluoromethyl group, R2 represents a heat-labile protecting group, R3 represents a fluorine atom or fluorine-containing alkyl group, and W is a bivalent linking group.]
US08663896B2
A resin composition for laser engraving is provided that includes (Component A) a compound having a hydrolyzable silyl group and/or a silanol group, (Component B) a depolymerization catalyst and/or a depolymerization catalyst precursor, and (Component C) a depolymerizable binder polymer. There are also provided a relief printing plate precursor for laser engraving that includes a relief-forming layer containing the resin composition for laser engraving, a relief printing plate precursor for laser engraving having a crosslinked relief-forming layer formed by crosslinking by means of light and/or heat a relief-forming layer that includes the resin composition for laser engraving, a process for producing a relief printing plate precursor for laser engraving that includes a layer formation step of forming a relief-forming layer from the resin composition for laser engraving and a crosslinking step of crosslinking the relief-forming layer by light and/or heat to thus obtain a relief printing plate precursor having a crosslinked relief-forming layer, a process for making a relief printing plate that includes a layer formation step of forming a relief-forming layer from the resin composition for laser engraving, a crosslinking step of crosslinking the relief-forming layer by light and/or heat to thus obtain a relief printing plate precursor having a crosslinked relief-forming layer, and an engraving step of laser-engraving the relief printing plate precursor having a crosslinked relief-forming layer to thus form a relief layer, and a relief printing plate having a relief layer made by the process for making a relief printing plate.
US08663892B2
A latent electrostatic image developing carrier including: core particles each having magnetism; and a coating layer covering each of the core particles, wherein the latent electrostatic image developing carrier has a shape factor SF-2 of 115 to 150 and has a bulk density of 1.8 g/cm3 to 2.4 g/cm3, wherein the core particles have a shape factor SF-2 of 120 to 160 and have an arithmetic mean surface roughness Ra of 0.5 μm to 1.0 μm, and wherein the coating layer contains a resin and a filler and an amount of the filler contained in the coating layer is 50 parts by mass to 500 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the resin contained in the coating layer.
US08663884B2
An orange toner for developing electrostatic charge images includes a binder resin; and a colorant including a first color material and a second color material; wherein the first color material has a hue angle of −20° to 80° in a L*a*b* color system, the second color material includes C.I. Solvent Orange 63, and the second color material has a content of 0.05 to 0.2 parts by mass to 100 parts by mass of the binder resin.
US08663881B2
A lithographic apparatus includes an illuminator for receiving a beam of EUV radiation from a radiation source apparatus and for conditioning the beam to illuminate a target area of a patterning device, such as a reticle. The reticle forms a patterned radiation beam. A projection system transfers the pattern from said patterning device to a substrate by EUV lithography. Sensors are provided for detecting a residual asymmetry in the conditioned beam as the beam approaches the reticle, particularly in a non-scanning direction. A feedback control signal is generated to adjust a parameter of said radiation source in response to detected asymmetry. The feedback is based on a ratio of intensities measured by two sensors at opposite ends of an illumination slit, and adjusts the timing of laser pulses generating an EUV-emitting plasma.
US08663865B2
A method of manufacturing a fuel cell includes the steps of: (a) providing an extendable stacking reference member structured to extend and contract in a stacking direction; (b) arranging the stacking reference member in an extended setting via a first opening, such that one end of the stacking reference member is located inside a casing body and the other end of the stacking reference member is located outside the casing body; (c) after the step (b), mounting a plurality of cells of a cell laminate on the stacking reference member in a direction from inside to outside of the casing body; (d) contracting the stacking reference member and compressing the mounted cell laminate in the stacking direction, so as to locate the stacking reference member and the cell laminate inside the casing body of the fuel cell; and (e) after the step (d), attaching an end wall member to a first wall member to close the first opening and maintaining the cell laminate under a load in the stacking direction.
US08663861B2
The amount of fuel supplied to a fuel cell is set to a second set value Qm2 smaller than a first set value Qm1 determined based on a load. Then, an output current Ifcr of the fuel cell with the fuel supply amount set to the second set value Qm2 is detected. The output current Ifcr is compared with a reference value Iref for determining mild deterioration to determine whether the fuel cell has deteriorated from the comparison result. If a determination that the fuel cell has deteriorated is made, the fuel supply amount is reset to a third set value Qm3 larger than the second set value Qm2.
US08663857B2
The present invention relates to a process for producing a continuous flow of hydrogen by catalyzed hydrolysis of a complex hydride, which comprises at least adding continuously and at constant rate a fuel solution to a reactor comprising a complex hydride stabilized on a hydroxide on a cobalt boride catalyst that is added in excess inside said reactor. Sodium borohydride is preferably used, the hydroxide is sodium hydroxide and the catalyst is supported on nickel foam. Parameters and optimal conditions to achieve continuous production of hydrogen have been determined, which is essential in the operation of fuel cells. A facility comprising a semi continuous reactor designed to perform the above process, which needs no refrigeration is also an object of the present invention, as well as a washing and reactivation process of a catalyst of the type used in the process mentioned above.
US08663850B2
A nonaqueous electrolyte battery includes a negative electrode and a nonaqueous electrolyte. The negative electrode comprises an active material having a lithium ion insertion potential of 0.4V (vs Li/Li+) or more, a conductive agent and a current collector. The nonaqueous electrolyte contains first sultones having an unsaturated hydrocarbon group. A diameter distribution of pores of the negative electrode when measured by mercury porosimetry has a first peak having a mode diameter of 0.01 to 0.2 μm and a second peak having a mode diameter of 0.003 to 0.02 μm. A volume of pores having a diameter of 0.01 to 0.2 μm and a volume of pores having a diameter of 0.003 to 0.02 μm, which are measured by the mercury porosimetery, are 0.05 to 0.5 mL and 0.0001 to 0.02 mL, respectively, per g of the negative electrode excluding the current collector.
US08663847B2
It is an object of the present invention to provide a positive electrode material having a large ratio of the discharge capacity around 4 V to the total discharge capacity including the discharge capacity at 4V or lower while making the discharge capacity around 4 V sufficient, for the purpose of providing a lithium secondary battery using a lithium transition metal phosphate compound excellent in thermal stability, utilizing the discharge potential around 4V (vs. Li/Li+) that is higher than the discharge potential of LiFePO4, and being advantageous with respect to the detection of the end of discharge state, and a lithium secondary battery using the same. The present invention uses a positive active material for a lithium secondary battery containing a lithium transition metal phosphate compound represented by LiMn1-x-yFexCoyPO4(0.1≦x≦0.2, 0
US08663846B2
Composite cathode active materials having a large diameter active material and a small diameter active material are provided. The ratio of the average particle diameter of the large diameter active material to the average particle diameter of the small diameter active material ranges from about 6:1 to about 100:1. Mixing the large and small diameter active materials in a proper weight ratio improves packing density Additionally, including highly stable materials and highly conductive materials in the composite cathode active materials improves volume density, discharge capacity and high rate discharge capacity.
US08663845B2
A secondary-battery current collector comprising an aluminum foil and a film containing an ion-permeable compound and carbon fine particles formed thereon or a secondary-battery current collector comprising an aluminum foil, a film containing an ion-permeable compound and carbon fine particles formed thereon as the lower layer, and a film containing a binder, carbon fine particles and a cathodic electroactive material formed thereon as the upper layer, a production method of the same, and a secondary battery having the current collector are provided.
US08663839B2
An electrode binder composition is used to produce an electrode used for an electrical storage device, and includes (A) a polymer, (B) a compound represented by the following general formula (1), and (C) a liquid medium, the polymer (A) being fluorine-containing polymer particles or diene polymer particles, and a concentration of the compound (B) in the electrode binder composition being 5 to 500 ppm. wherein R1 and R2 independently represent a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, or a monovalent alkyl group, and n is an integer from 0 to 5.
US08663836B2
A composite anode active material, a method of preparing the composite anode active material, and a lithium battery including the lithium battery. According to the method of preparing the composite anode active material, carbon nanotubes are formed on a Si particle without a separate operation of applying a catalyst. Furthermore, high adherence is provided between the Si particle and carbon nanotubes, and therefore the composite anode active material is used as an anode material of the lithium battery.
US08663825B2
The present disclosure relates generally to indicating an end of life condition of an electrochemical device, and more particularly to systems and methods for sensing and determining an end of life condition in a cell comprising a high capacity cathode material suitable for use in a non-aqueous electrochemical cell. The high capacity cathode material has an amorphous or semi-crystalline form of copper manganese oxide, and optionally fluorinated carbon. The present disclosure additionally relates to transmitting the determined end of life condition to a user or monitoring device of the cell.
US08663819B2
Free standing articles or articles at least partially coated with substantially porosity free, fine-grained and/or amorphous Co-bearing metallic materials optionally containing solid particulates dispersed therein, are disclosed. The electrodeposited metallic layers and/or patches comprising Co provide, enhance or restore strength, wear and/or lubricity of substrates without reducing the fatigue performance compared to either uncoated or equivalent thickness chromium coated substrate. The fine-grained and/or amorphous metallic coatings comprising Co are particularly suited for articles exposed to thermal cycling, fatigue and other stresses and/or in applications requiring anti-microbial properties.
US08663816B2
A hot-pressed member includes a steel sheet, a Ni-diffusion region present in a surface layer of the steel sheet, and an intermetallic compound layer and a ZnO layer which are provided in order on the Ni-diffusion region, the intermetallic compound layer corresponding to a γ phase present in a phase equilibrium diagram of a Zn—Ni alloy, wherein a spontaneous immersion potential indicated in a 0.5 M NaCl aqueous air-saturated solution at 25° C.±5° C. is −600 to −360 mV based on a standard hydrogen electrode.
US08663815B2
Metal coated organic polymer compositions are useful as vehicular transmission parts. Such parts may have lighter weight, and/or superior corrosion resistance, and/or be more easily fabricated than similar conventional transmission parts.
US08663801B1
The present invention relates to an organic-inorganic nanocomposite having orientation and a polymer resin comprising the same. An organic-inorganic nanocomposite according to the present invention includes inorganic nanoparticles each having one or more hydrogen bondable functional groups; first organic compounds each having two or more hydrogen bondable functional groups and one or more aromatic groups; and second organic compounds each having one or more hydrogen bondable functional groups and one or more aromatic groups, wherein the inorganic nanoparticle, the first organic compound and the second organic compound are bonded sequentially through hydrogen bonds, and the hydrogen-bonded inorganic nanoparticle, first organic compound and second organic compound, are laminated through π-π interaction to have orientation.
US08663794B2
Nanocomposite films having controlled dispersion, in out-of-plane birefringence, or equivalent retardation are obtained, including films having essentially flat dispersion behavior, reverse dispersion behavior, and non-birefringence dispersion. The nanocomposite comprises film comprises metallic oxide nanoparticles dispersed in a polymer matrix. The present invention also provides a novel method for making and controlling the out-of-plane birefringence dispersion of a film using an organic-inorganic nanocomposite. The nanocomposite material exhibits high optical transmittance, low haze, and is useful in the field of liquid-crystal displays.
US08663792B2
A composite roofing overlay containing paint waste is provided for use on a roof surface. The composite roofing overlay includes a bedding cement containing water-based paint waste and sand, a porous fabric embedded in the bedding cement, and at least one primer coat over the porous fabric and bedding cement. The composite roofing overlay may be used in combination with an overlying waterproof roofing membrane to provide an effective waterproof seal to new or existing roof structures.
US08663788B2
The present invention relates to an organic-inorganic hybrid transparent hydrogel complex containing a polymerizable acrylic monomer, a metal alkoxide sol solution, a water-soluble salt, a phosphorus compound, a silane coupling agent, a quaternary ammonium salt, a polymerization initiator, and water. Moreover, the present invention provides a fire retardant glass assembly using the organic-inorganic hybrid transparent hydrogel complex and a manufacturing method thereof.The organic-inorganic hybrid transparent hydrogel complex according to the present invention has excellent properties such as long-term transparency, flame-retardancy, thermal insulation, long-term durability, and weather resistance, and thus it can be suitably used as a fire retardant material for fire retardant glass.
US08663782B1
A floormat for handling fluids is formed, at least in part, of compressible and resilient material. The topside of the floormat has a spaced plurality of channels feeding one or more gutters. The topside also has a central region and a border region. The central region occupies most of the topside and is substantially flat throughout except for the channels. One or more gutters in the floormat communicate with the distal ends of the channels. One or more discrete outlet gutters in the floormat allow drainage off the floormat. After placing the floormat where a user is expected to stand during the procedure, fluids that fall onto the floormat will flow from the channels to the one or more gutters for removal from one or more discrete locations on the one or more gutters.
US08663779B2
A shuttering element for producing concrete and reinforced concrete structures comprises a multi-layer panel and a frame element which at least partially surrounds the multi-layer panel and provides at least one identification element that can be contactlessly written on the read form. Methods for producing and repairing such shuttering elements are also provided.
US08663773B2
A vacuum insulation panel and to a method for manufacturing same. The method comprises: (a) a step of laminating a plurality of glass fiber boards to form a core, wherein the glass fiber boards are produced by a papermaking method using glass fiber dispersed in an inorganic binder; (b) a step of forming an outer cover having a structure in which a surface protection layer, a metal barrier layer, and an adhesive layer are laminated; (c) a step of producing a getter by packing quicklime (CaO) powder in a pouch; (d) a step of attaching the getter onto the core, or inserting the getter into the surface of the core; and (e) a step of forming the outer cover into a bag body, inserting the core from step (d) into the bag body, and sealing the bag body, thereby improving long-term durability of the vacuum insulation panel.
US08663769B2
An oriented bamboo strand board and method for manufacturing the same are provided. The method includes: (a) cutting a bamboo stalk (4) into sections (6), and splitting each section (6) into 3-12 arc bamboo blanks (8) in the radial direction; (b) removing a outer surface part (10) and inner surface part (11) of the arc bamboo blank (8) by a thicknesser; (c) flaking the bamboo blank after removal of the outer surface part (10) and inner surface part (11) into bamboo flakes (14) with a thickness of 0.1-0.3 mm in the chordwise or substantially chordwise direction; (d) applying glue to the bamboo flakes (14) after drying, and orientedly spreading. The bamboo flakes have large width, break-resistance, good flatten characteristic and easy glue application, and the mechanical strength of produced oriented bamboo strand board is 1.5-1.6 times as much as that of the oriented bamboo strand board manufactured by radial flaking.
US08663768B2
An adhesive strip can adhere to objects and to a surface such as a surface in a vehicle passenger compartment to support the object within reach of the passengers. The adhesive strip is removable from the surface and provides a mechanism for folding the adhesive back so that the adhesive is covered and not free to attach unintentionally to objects or surfaces after removal from the initial surface. A method for using the strip allows the strip to be used to adhere objects to surfaces and then avoid adhering unintentionally after removal to other objects and surfaces. A method for making the adhesive strips is provided. A device for making the adhesive strips is provided.
US08663761B2
A plastic preform, having a base body, a thread region arranged on the base body, wherein the thread region is formed in one piece with the base body, and a ring-shaped section which is arranged underneath the thread region, which extends outwards in a radial direction (R) of the plastic container and which is formed in one piece with the base body, wherein the ring-shaped section has a first surface facing the base body and a second surface facing the thread region. At least one optically perceivable marking is arranged on the surface facing the base body.
US08663753B2
An epitaxial reactor enabling simultaneous deposition of thin films on a multiplicity of wafers is disclosed. During deposition, a number of wafers are contained within a wafer sleeve comprising a number of wafer carrier plates spaced closely apart to minimize the process volume. Process gases flow preferentially into the interior volume of the wafer sleeve, which is heated by one or more lamp modules. Purge gases flow outside the wafer sleeve within a reactor chamber to minimize wall deposition. In addition, sequencing of the illumination of the individual lamps in the lamp module may further improve the linearity of variation in deposition rates within the wafer sleeve. To improve uniformity, the direction of process gas flow may be varied in a cross-flow configuration. Combining lamp sequencing with cross-flow processing in a multiple reactor system enables high throughput deposition with good film uniformities and efficient use of process gases.
US08663752B2
A method of manufacturing carbon coated aluminum foil as a cathode of solid aluminum electrolytic capacitors Comprising the steps of: preparing an aluminum foil by setting the aluminum foil into a chamber; roughening at least one surface of the aluminum foil by introducing gas into the chamber and activating an electric field so that the gas is ionized and turned into a plasma; and depositing carbon atoms by introducing gas mixed with carbon atoms and turning on the electric field again so as to make the carbon atoms have positive charge thereby impacting into and attaching firmly to the rough surface of the aluminum foil to form a carbon film.
US08663750B2
A method of fabricating backlight unit is disclosed. The backlight unit method of fabricating backlight unit includes, preparing a base member having a predetermined thickness, applying ultraviolet curing resin on a surface of the base member, transferring prism patterns to the ultraviolet curing resin using a flexible mold having engraved patterns corresponding to the prism patterns, and curing the prism patterns before the prism patterns are separated from the engraved patterns of the flexible mold.
US08663746B2
An apparatus and system for stirring liquid inside a flow cell. In one implementation, the apparatus includes a rotatable disc configured to receive liquid at a top side of the disc and distribute the liquid substantially evenly around a periphery of the flow cell. The disc has a triangular cross sectional area. The apparatus may further include a set of fins attached to a bottom side of the disc, wherein the set of fins is configured to draw the liquid from the periphery of the flow cell into the center of the flow cell.
US08663744B2
A method improves bundle cohesiveness of a bundle of aramid yarns, and decreasing its friction coefficient. The method includes adding to the bundle of yarns 0.1-3.0 wt. %, based on the yarn weight, of a water-soluble or water-dispersible film forming binding agent, followed by treating the bundle of yarns with an oil having an intrinsic viscosity less than 100 mm2/s.
US08663737B2
The present disclosure provides substrates having a lubricious coating thereon. The substrate may be flexible and include, in embodiments, a medical device. The lubricious coating, in embodiments, is applied in a pattern so that the coating avoids delamination and/or fracturing which might otherwise occur as the substrate flexes and/or stretches.
US08663731B2
A detachable framework used for winding optical fiber coils and a method of producing optical fiber coils with this framework. A framework with a suitable structure is designed considering comprehensively three factors, i.e., the window ratio of an optical fiber coil, the precision of an optical fiber gyro and the easy detachment of the framework from the optical fiber coil. A surface treatment with the framework is performed by coating a layer of thermosol on the surface of the framework so the optical fiber coil can be easily detached from the framework after curing. The required length of optical fiber is winded around the optical fiber coil framework, accompanying with vacuum pressure impregnating with curing adhesive after winding and optical fiber coil curing subsequently. The framework is taken off from the optical fiber coil under the heating circumstances, thereby completing production of the non-framework optical fiber coil.
US08663726B2
An object is to provide a method and an apparatus for lapping strip-shaped food dough onto a transporting unit without repeatedly applying tension or relaxation. A method of lapping food dough in which strip-shaped food dough being continuously conveyed is lapped onto the transporting unit configured to transport the food dough in a direction intersecting a conveyance direction of the food dough. The method includes the steps of conveying the conveyed food dough 9 to a swing guide member 137 through a swing conveyor 135 swingable in a vertical direction, the swing guide member provided at a tip end of the swing conveyor 135 so as to be swingable in a direction being horizontal and intersecting a transportation direction of the transporting unit 15, and always maintaining an almost constant clearance between a tip end of the swing guide member 137 and a transport surface of the transporting member 15 and thereby maintaining an almost constant length of the food dough 9 from a base end of the swing conveyor 135 to the transport surface of the transporting unit 15.
US08663724B1
An electrical, automatic hot beverage brewer (10) and method of brewing in which a removable brew chamber (20) has a drain hole (25) in the bottom fitted with a normally closed, pressure responsive brew chamber drain valve assembly (24) maintained in a normally closed position except when pressure against the drain valve (24) exceeds a preselected minimum pressure limit that is greater than the fluidic pressure applied by virtue of head pressure of a full load of hot water and a piston (74) is moved within the brew chamber to control the opening and closing of the drain valve (24) When the piston (74) moves downwardly toward the drain hole the air pressure of a pocket of air (90) above the beverage (92) in the brew chamber (20) is increased to open at the end of a seeping period when it is desired to rapidly expel freshly brewed beverage out the brew drain valve at a relatively rapid rate depending upon the total of the hydraulic pressure and the added pressure from the air pressure source to avoid the need to wait for the end of a drip period. The drain valve (24) automatically closes after the piston (74) is removed from the brew chamber (20) to enable removal of the brew chamber (20) from a brewer housing (12) without risks of hot beverage leaking out of the brew chamber (20).
US08663715B2
The present invention relates to a composition containing extracts of Encelia canescens Lam and to aqueous or ethanolic extracts obtained therefrom, the procedure for the obtainment and crystallization thereof, and the uses thereof for the prevention and treatment of cancer, for example cancer of the pancreas, gastric tract, prostate, breast, kidney, colon, lung, vesicle, uterus, oral cavity, colorectal region, bladder, liver, brain tumors, and chronic and acute leukemia, in addition to metabolic diseases such as diabetes mellitus types I and II, viral and bacterial diseases, in particular related to E. coli, Kiebsiella, M. flavus, S. aureus and B. subtilis. Furthermore the use thereof is claimed in diseases related to oxidative stress and as a useful agent in the preparation of analgesics.
US08663707B2
A method for treating atherosclerosis in a patient comprising maintaining an elevated level of alcohol in the patient's blood; and administering a calcium chelating agent is provided.
US08663706B2
Highly compactable granulations and methods for preparing highly compactable granulations are disclosed. More particularly, highly compactable calcium carbonate granulations are disclosed. The granulations comprise powdered materials such as calcium carbonate that have small median particle sizes. The disclosed granulations are useful in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical tableting and provide smaller tablet sizes upon compression than previously available.
US08663705B2
An improved method and apparatus for producing a stable, non-toxic, antimicrobial electrolyzed saline solution with a broad range of anti-infective and therapeutic applications. The resulting electrolyzed saline solution exhibits a marked lack of toxicity upon intravenous, aspired, oral or topical application in mammals for therapeutic applications providing a broad platform, including topical disinfection, antimicrobial application, wound treatment, oxidative stress reduction and enhancement of immune function to better detect malfunctioning cells.
US08663704B2
A composition and method which improves blood lipid profiles and optionally reduces low density lipoprotein (LDL) per-oxidation in humans by administering a therapeutic amount of a composition comprising krill oil in combination with astaxanthin or a mixture of fish oil derived, choline based, phospholipid bound omega-3 fatty acid mixture including phospholipid bound polyunsaturated EPA and DHA. In one embodiment, the krill oil is derived from Euphasia spp., comprising Eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic (DHA) fatty acids in the form of triacylglycerides and phospholipids. The krill oil includes at least 10% EPA and 5% DHA, of which greater than 50% are in the form of phospholipids and the 1-4000 mg of krill oil per daily dose is delivered.
US08663696B2
The present invention includes a pharmaceutical-based film system which includes various small-scale forms of pharmaceutically active agents, including tetrahydrolipstatin, in a film base. Such forms include nanoparticles, microparticles, and combinations thereof. Methods of producing such film and providing a dosage of the pharmaceutical in a film are also provided.
US08663693B2
Nanoparticles and nanoparticle formulations or suspensions are provided which comprise a fibrate and vitamin E TPGS. The nanoparticles may have a mean diameter, measured by photon correlation spectroscopy, in the range of from about 100 nm to about 900 nm. Pharmaceutical formulations and uses of such compositions are also provided.
US08663689B2
A bioadherent substrate includes a medical gel or medical gel precursor having a plurality of reactive members of a specific binding pair attached on or adapted to be attached to a surface of the medical gel, said reactive members being capable of forming covalent bonds with a plurality of complementary reactive members of the specific binding pair via a reaction selected from a Huisgen cycloaddition reaction, a Diels-Alder reaction and a thiol-ene reaction. A method for adhering a medical gel to biological tissue includes providing a medical gel or a medical gel precursor having a plurality of reactive members of a specific binding pair attached on or adapted to be attached to a surface of the medical gel and providing tissue with a plurality of complementary reactive members of the specific binding pair, wherein upon contact of the reactive members on the medical gel with the complimentary reactive members on the tissue, covalent bonds are formed between the reactive members and the complementary reactive members, thus adhering the medical gel to the tissue.
US08663688B2
Semisolid mucoadhesive formulations for vaginal application, with improved technical and organoleptic characteristics, which contain at least two bioadhesive gelling polymers and an active ingredient, useful in the prevention and/or treatment of various pathologies and disorders in human beings or animals.
US08663687B2
The invention relates to the film products and methods of their preparation that demonstrate a non-self-aggregating uniform heterogeneity. Desirably, the films disintegrate in water and may be formed by a controlled drying process, or other process that maintains the required uniformity of the film. Desirably, the films contain at least one active agent, which may be administered to a user topically, transmucosally, vaginally, ocularly, aurally, nasally, transdermally or orally.
US08663684B2
The present invention concerns a process for producing a granulate based on lactose and cellulose (derivative), a granulate obtainable by the process and its use as a tabletting excipient.
US08663681B2
The present invention relates to an oral pharmaceutical dosage form comprising micronized progesterone, an edible oil, a disintegrant, and a hydrophilic excipient. Particularly, the invention relates to a pharmaceutical dosage form wherein the dosage form is in a powder form and is contained in a pharmaceutically acceptable capsule. The present invention is also directed toward methods of making the dosage form, methods of using the dosage form, and kits comprising the dosage form.
US08663679B2
Disclosed are compositions and corresponding methods for treating fibrocystic breast disease or other breast-related disease or condition. The compositions comprise, per serving or dose, from zero to about 400 μg selenium, from about 100 mg to about 6000 mg gamma linolenic acid, and about 0.15 mg to about 5 mg iodine, with nutritional embodiments further comprising one or more of protein, fat, carbohydrate, vitamins, and minerals and providing from about 50 to about 1000 kcal of energy per severing or dose. Also disclosed are in-vitro studies showing that certain combinations of gamma linolenic acid, iodine, and/or selenium may 1) inhibit breast cancer or fibrocystic cell proliferation, 2) reinforce the function of tight junctions of endothelial cells and of mammary epithelial cells in estrogen-sensitive conditions, and 3) reduce the risk of vascular invasion by breast cancer cells.
US08663678B2
A solid dosage form for the ocular administration of an active principle includes at least one biocompatible, water-soluble excipient for ophthalmic use. The form is obtained using a method which is selected from among the following: direct compression, dry compression, wet compression, compression of a lyophilizate, the compression being carried out a temperature below 45° C., or lyophilization, such that the form can disintegrate and release the active principle in the conjunctival sac. The invention also relates to an ophthalmic insert having the aforementioned dosage form which is appropriately dimensioned for ocular administration.
US08663677B2
A controlled release system and manufacturing method is provided. The method comprises providing a first aqueous solution containing a hydrophilic drug and an alkaline agent, providing an organic solution containing a hydrophobic molecule, providing a second aqueous solution containing a hydrophilic surfactant, mixing the first hydrophilic solution with the organic solution to form a first emulsion, and mixing the first emulsion with a second aqueous solution to form a second emulsion containing delayed-release microsphere.
US08663675B2
The various embodiments herein relate to an injectable matrix used for regeneration, reconstruction, repair or replacement of organ or tissue. The injectable matrix consists of a synthetic and natural polymer, a stem cell niche and nanoparticles in the form of cups filled with growth factor and physiologic agent. The embodiments herein also provide a method for regeneration, reconstruction, repair or replacement of organ or tissue. In the method, an injectable matrix is injected to create three dimensional matrix system or network in an area of the desired tissue or organ, migration of blood circulatory stem cells or tissue-specific progenitor cells occur to the injected area of the tissue or organ. The growth factors and physiological agent present in the nanocups are released. The stem cells proliferate and differentiate to form the desired organ or tissue.
US08663664B2
The object of this invention is to provide a temperature-sensitive state-changing hydrogel composition and a method of producing the same. The hydrogel composition includes 1-10 wt % of branched gelation polymer, 0.5 5 wt % of electrolyte gelation polymer, 0.5-5 wt % of skin-communication enhancer, 1-10 wt % of natural biomaterial, 3-30 wt % of polyhydric alcohol, 1-10 wt % of functional additive, and 30-93 wt % of water based on a total weight of the composition. Hydrogel is transformed into a fluid state at 10-50° C. The hydrogel composition is transformed into a fluid state due to body temperature when it comes into contact with the skin to be fluidized, so that cosmetics or drugs contained in hydrogel are uniformly and quickly delivered into the skin.
US08663652B2
This invention provides a method of treating a disorder of a subject's heart involving loss of cardiomyocytes which comprises administering to the subject a composition comprising an amount of a human stromal derived factor-1 and an amount of a human granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, the composition being administered in an amount effective to cause proliferation of cardiomyocytes within the subject's heart so as to thereby treat the disorder. This invention also provides a method of treating a subject suffering from a disorder of a tissue involving loss and/or apoptosis of cells of the tissue which comprises administering to the subject a composition comprising an amount of an agent which induces phosphorylation and/or activation of protein kinase B, or an agent which induces phosphorylation and/or activation of an extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase, or an agent which induces activation of CXCR4.
US08663649B2
Provided herein are vaccine compositions for control of Trypanosoma cruzi infection and Chagas disease. The compositions comprise plasmids encoding o GPI-anchored genes ASP-2, TcG-1, TcG2 and TcG4 from Trypanosoma cruzi; plasmids encoding cytokines IL12 and GM-CSF; and plasmids encoding a gene expression system. Certain vaccine compositions comprise recombinant proteins, selected from TcG-1, TcG2 and TcG4 from Trypanosoma cruzi. In another vaccination strategy, the recombinant proteins are replaced by lysates comprising Trypanosoma rangeli cells. Further provided herein are diagnosis compositions comprising 1) recombinant proteins, selected from TcG-1, TcG2 and TcG4 from Trypanosoma cruzi; 2) antibodies that specifically binds the TcG-1, TcG2 and TcG4 proteins; 3) sense and antisense polynucleotide sequences that encode the TcG-1, TcG2 and TcG4 proteins. Said compositions can be used in diagnosing and/or evaluating efficacy of treatments against Trypanosoma cruzi infection. A diagnosis kit, and methods of diagnosing and/or treating Trypanosoma cruzi infection are also provided.
US08663646B2
The invention relates to a peptide derived from p53 that could be used as a vaccine against cancer.
US08663637B2
The present invention relates to antibodies against specific domains of Olfml3 and the use of such in angiogenesis. In particular aspects, angiogenesis-related conditions, such as cancer, can be treated by the composition comprising the Olfml3 antagonists.
US08663634B2
The present invention provides methods of treating, preventing or ameliorating the symptoms of T cell-mediated immunological diseases, particularly autoimmune diseases, through the use of anti-CD3 antibodies. In particular, the methods of the invention provide for administration of antibodies that specifically bind the epsilon subunit within the human CD3 complex. Such antibodies modulate the T cell receptor/alloantigen interaction and, thus, regulate the T cell mediated cytotoxicity associated with autoimmune disorders. Additionally, the invention provides for modification of the anti-CD3 antibodies such that they exhibit reduced or eliminated effector function and T cell activation as compared to non-modified anti-CD3 antibodies.
US08663633B2
Methods for identifying modified proteases with modified substrate specificity or other properties are provided. The methods screen candidate and modified proteases by contacting them with a substrate, such as a serpin, an alpha macroglobulins or a p35 family protein or modified serpins and modified p35 family members or modified alpha macroglobulins, that, upon cleavage of the substrate, traps the protease by forming a stable complex. Also provided are modified proteases.
US08663630B2
The molecular mechanisms of peroxisome biogenesis have begun to emerge; in contrast, relatively little is known about how the organelle functions as cells age. The present inventors characterized age-related changes in peroxisomes of human cells and showed that aging compromises peroxisomal targeting signal 1 (PTS1) protein import, with the critical antioxidant enzyme, catalase, especially affected. The number and appearance of peroxisomes are altered in these cells, and the organelles accumulate the PTS1-import receptor, Pex5p, on their membranes. Concomitantly, cells produce increasing amounts of the toxic metabolite, H2O2, and this increased load of reactive oxygen species (ROS) may further reduce peroxisomal protein import and exacerbate the effects of aging. Disclosed are novel compositions and methods for restoring catalase in peroxisomes by use of targeted catalase modified at its C-terminus and/or N-terminus, optionally in combination with polypeptides which promote cellular uptake of proteins, to prevent or overcome the changes that follows aging or that are associated with a number of diseases or disorders.
US08663623B2
The present invention relates to multi purpose herbal cattle feed supplement compositions for enhancing the productivity and quality of milk by improved bioavailability/bioenhancing of nutrients. The herbal composition comprises an effective amount of an extract and/or at least one bioactive fraction or powder from herbs such as Asparagus, Withania, Lepidium, Bacopa, Nardostachys, Vetiveria, Pueraria, Emblica, Tinospora etc.; one or more additive selected from Probiotics, decorticated cotton seed extract (DCC), chelated mineral mixture, mineral nutrients, dicalcium phosphate (DCP), dolomite, calcite, vitamins and amino acids to obtain the herbal feed supplement compositions.
US08663621B2
An unsaturated hydroxyl-ester pheromone for the neotropical root weevil Diaprepes abbreviatus has been isolated, identified and synthesized. It is useful for trapping the weevil to reduce or prevent damage to plants.
US08663618B2
A process for surface modification of polymer that enhances cell growth as well as inhibits growth of microorganisms is disclosed.
US08663613B2
Disclosed are hair or skin conditioning compositions comprising by weight: (a) from about 0.1% to about 10% of a thickening polymer system; (b) from about 0.1% to about 8.0% of a surfactant system selected from the group consisting of cationic surfactant, nonionic surfactant, and mixtures thereof; (c) from about 0.1% to about 10% of a hydrophobically modified amido silicone copolyol; and (d) an aqueous carrier; wherein the composition has a transmittance of 25% or more and/or wherein the composition has a viscosity of from about 1,000 cps to about 50,000 cps and Shear Thinning Index of 30 or more. The compositions are especially suitable for hair care products such as hair conditioning products for rinse-off/leave-on use.
US08663610B2
A method of producing an anhydrous antiperspirant composition comprising (a) providing a mixture of at least one antiperspirant active including a metal salt, and an anhydrous carrier for the at least one antiperspirant active in which the at least one antiperspirant active is dissolved, the carrier comprising a eutectic mixture of at least one basic compound selected from a basic amide and a basic amine and at least one member chosen from a cation and zwitterion; and (b) heating the mixture to form a stabilized eutectic system of the at least one antiperspirant active and the anhydrous carrier. Also, an anhydrous antiperspirant composition.
US08663608B2
A hydroxytyrosol polymer formed by either C—C coupling or C—O—C coupling is provided. Preferred polymers are formed by C—C coupling and the dimer has the following structure: Compounds of the invention have been found to have antioxidant properties and their use in antioxidant compositions forms a further aspect of the invention.
US08663607B2
Compositions containing ferrate(VI) are disclosed. Also, methods are disclosed that utilize ferrate(VI).
US08663603B2
The invention provides compositions and methods for therapeutic and diagnostic applications.
US08663595B2
In one embodiment, the invention is to a process for purifying a by-product stream. The process comprises the step of providing a by-product stream comprising an ammonium salt, dimerized amide, and optionally water. The process further comprises the step of precipitating at least a portion of the dimerized amide in the by-product stream to form solid dimerized amide. The process further comprises the step of separating the solid dimerized amide from the by-product stream to form a treated by-product stream comprising less than 1 wt. % solid dimerized amide.
US08663594B2
An exhaust gas treating method removes sulfur dioxide from exhaust gas containing at least sulfur dioxide and mercury by bringing the exhaust gas into contact with absorption liquid. Persulfate is added into the absorption liquid or alternatively, iodine gas is added to the exhaust gas before the exhaust gas is brought into contact with the absorption liquid. A high removal rate for both sulfur dioxide and mercury is stably maintained if the load of power generation and the composition of exhaust gas fluctuate.
US08663587B2
Catalysts, catalytic articles, and catalyst systems and methods for treating exhaust gas streams utilizing the catalytic articles are described. In one or more embodiments, a catalytic article includes a first SCR catalyst permeating the porous walls of a substrate and a second SCR catalyst coating the walls of the substrate. Methods for treating an exhaust gas stream are also provided. Methods of making and using such catalysts and catalytic articles are also described.
US08663586B1
A method and system for high performance mercury capture from solid fuel combustion flue gas is provided. The method includes injecting pulverized activated carbon into a mercury capture system with at least a first and a second fabric filter, collecting the pulverized activated carbon captured in the second fabric filter, and injecting the collected pulverized activated carbon from the second fabric filter upstream of the first fabric filter for reuse to capture mercury from the process gas.
US08663585B1
A system, method, and composition for generating a composition made from a combination of fly ash, FGD purge water, a fixation agent such as lime, and/or synthetic gypsum which, when mixed in the right proportions, results in a material that is easily handled and sets up over time in a relatively impermeable manner that significantly reduces the leaching of contaminants that would otherwise be readily available for release into the environment.
US08663582B2
An integral-type reaction cartridge includes a plurality of reaction containers and at least a separation container. The plural reaction containers and the separation container are integrally formed of plastic and lined along a first direction. The separation container has a first end, a second end opposing the first end, and a hollow accommodating space between the first and second ends, wherein the first end is an open end, the second end is a closed end, and the accommodating space tapers from the first end to the second end. The accommodating space has a first side and a second side along the first direction, as well as a third side and a fourth side along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. Near the second end, at least one of the first side and the second side has a greater slope than the third side and the fourth side.
US08663577B2
A spotter that includes a plurality of spotting heads, each of the plurality of spotting heads having a discharging portion at a tip portion, the plurality of spotting heads form an m×n array (m, n>1) with m spotting heads arranged lengthwise and n spotting heads arranged crosswise; and a pitch varying mechanism configured to vary an array pitch of the plurality of spotting heads arrayed in a lengthwise direction and an array pitch of the plurality of spotting heads arrayed in a crosswise direction.
US08663574B2
The invention relates to a method for pasteurizing a liquid product by heating it to a pasteurization temperature which results in any product-harming microorganisms being killed and by maintaining the product at this temperature in a treatment chamber over a holding time.
US08663573B2
An apparatus for producing trichlorosilane, including: a reaction vessel that has a substantially cylindrical wall body, a top plate, and a bottom plate, where a reaction product gas is produced from a raw gas supplied to the reaction vessel through a gas introducing passage provided to the lower section of the cylindrical wall body; and a plurality of heaters that are disposed inside the reaction vessel to heat the raw gas, wherein each of the heaters has a heating element that is elongated in a vertical direction and generates heat by electrification, and a mount that is fixed to the bottom plate and supports the heating element; a flange is provided to intermediate height of the heating element such that the flange is arranged upper than the gas introducing passage and is elongated in horizontal direction; and a passage of the raw gas formed between adjacent heaters is narrowed by the flange.
US08663572B2
The present invention provides a microplasma jet generator capable of stably generating a microplasma jet in a microspace at atmospheric pressure with low electric power.The microplasma jet generator is driven with a VHF power supply to generate an inductively coupled microplasma jet and includes a substrate, a micro-antenna disposed on the substrate, and a discharge tube located close to the micro-antenna. The micro-antenna has a flat meandering shape with plural turns.
US08663571B2
A system comprising: a plasma production chamber configured to produce a plasma; a reaction chamber vaporize a precursor material with the plasma to form a reactive mixture; a quench chamber having a frusto-conical surface and a quench region formed within the quench chamber between an ejection port of the reaction chamber and a cooled mixture outlet, wherein the quench region configured to receive the reactive mixture from the ejection port, to cool the reactive mixture to form a cooled mixture, and to supply the cooled mixture to the cooled mixture outlet; and a conditioning fluid injection ring disposed at the ejection port and configured to flow a conditioning fluid directly into the reactive mixture as the reactive mixture flows through the ejection port, thereby disturbing the flow of the reactive mixture, creating turbulence within the quench region and cooling the reactive mixture to form a cooled mixture comprising condensed nanoparticles.
US08663570B2
A sterilizing apparatus and an ion generating apparatus, which generate sufficient amount of cations in a short period of time and also maintain the amount of ions generated at a level that is harmless to the human body. The sterilizing apparatus and the ion generating apparatus optimize the position of an electrode to maximize the generation of active hydrogen. The ion generating apparatus includes a first electrode for generating hydrogen ions and a second electrode located such that the second electrode is separated from the first electrode by a designated distance for generating electrons and superoxide anions. The hydrogen ions generated from the first electrode react with the electrons generated from the second electrode to produce hydrogen atoms, and the hydrogen atoms react with the superoxide anions generated from the second electrode to sterilize the air.
US08663569B2
An ozone generating apparatus according to one embodiment includes a hollow cylindrical sealed container provided with an inlet for a feed gas containing oxygen gas and an outlet for an ozonized gas. A discharge tube including a dielectric tube arranged within the container and a first electrode arranged within the dielectric tube is provided in the container. A second electrode is arranged within the container and surrounds the first electrode, spaced apart from the dielectric tube to form a discharge gap between the second electrode and the dielectric tube. The apparatus further includes a discharge voltage source configured to apply a discharging voltage across the first and second electrodes, and a cooling water jacket surrounding the second electrode. The dielectric tube has an outer diameter of 12 mm or more, but 19 mm or less.
US08663566B2
Disclosed are a fluidized bed water gas shift membrane reactor and a method for separating carbon dioxide using the same. More specifically, disclosed are a fluidized bed water gas shift membrane reactor provided on the back of a gasification reactor to produce a synthetic gas consisting of hydrogen and carbon monoxide by reaction of a solid hydrocarbon with water or oxygen, wherein the carbon monoxide present in an amount of 40 to 70 vol % in the synthesis gas reacts with steam in the presence of a catalyst to produce a mix gas of hydrogen and carbon dioxide, and the hydrogen is selectively isolated from the mix gas through a Pb—Cu shift membrane to increase the concentration of carbon dioxide present in the mix gas and separate the carbon dioxide, and a method for separating carbon dioxide using the same.
US08663564B2
Embodiments of the present invention relate to carbon dioxide sequestration systems and methods. In an embodiment, the invention includes a method of sequestering carbon dioxide. The method can include mixing carbon dioxide with an alcohol to form a reaction mixture and contacting the reaction mixture with a metal oxide catalyst under reaction conditions sufficient to produce a carbonate as a reaction product. In an embodiment, the invention includes a carbon dioxide sequestration system. The system can include a carbon dioxide supply source, an alcohol supply source, and a reaction vessel. A metal oxide catalyst can be disposed within the reaction vessel. The system can be configured to mix carbon dioxide from the carbon dioxide supply source with an alcohol from the alcohol supply source to form a reaction mixture and contact the reaction mixture with the metal oxide catalyst. Other embodiments are also described herein.
US08663558B2
The invention concerns a device for analyzing a body fluid. The device includes a test tape having a carrier tape and test fields for the detection of an analyte in the body fluid, the test fields being distributed along the carrier tape and raised above the carrier tape and a container for the test tape. The container has a seal for passage of the test tape, wherein the test fields have a leading edge which runs against a sealing edge of the seal when the test field passes through the seal. The leading edge of the test fields or/and the sealing edge of the seal at least in parts are angled or curved relative to the transverse direction of the tape.
US08663555B2
Vacuum sterilization process with the application of vapour of a mixture of peracetic acid with hydrogen peroxide and residual gas plasma from atmospheric air, excited by pulsed electrical discharge; operational devices and methods used in the sterilization process, preferably a process of sterilization in vacuum, dry, and at low temperature (room temperature).
US08663554B2
A method of fabricating a biosensor chip includes: forming at least one metallic layer on a transparent substrate to form a composite member; disposing the composite member in a vacuumed chamber, and introducing a gas into the vacuumed chamber; applying microwave energy to the gas to produce a microwave plasma of the gas within the vacuumed chamber, and causing the microwave plasma to interact with the metallic layer so that the metallic layer is melted and formed into a plurality of metallic nanoparticles that are spaced apart from each other and that expose partially the surface of the transparent substrate; and disposing a receptor at the surface of the transparent substrate that is exposed among the metallic nanoparticles. A biosensor chip is also disclosed.
US08663547B2
A furnace for heat treating a metal workpiece is provided. A method and system for processing a workpiece also are provided.
US08663542B2
A thermoplastic resin composition of which the molding efficiency can be improved by a high flowability and a high crystallization temperature while ensuring desired physical properties (e.g., strength) in a molded product, and a molded product of the composition are provided.The thermoplastic resin composition comprises a plurality of thermoplastic resins having a melt viscosity different from each other and containing a unit which comprises an arylene group and an ether group and/or a carbonyl group; when the thermoplastic resin composition at least comprises a first thermoplastic resin having a melt viscosity of 150 to 1500 Pa·s at a temperature of 400° C. and a shear rate of 1216 s−1, and a second thermoplastic resin, and the melt viscosity ratio of the first thermoplastic resin relative to the second thermoplastic resin at a temperature of 400° C. and a shear rate of 1216 s−1 [the former/the latter] is 1.5/1 to 10/1.
US08663540B2
A heater tube is provided for use in a method of producing a diamond or cubic boron nitride (CBN) tipped cutting tool by sintering a mass of crystalline particles to a metal carbide. The heater tube has a cylindrical shape and is comprised of a plurality of windings of an expanded graphite foil which are compressed together. In the method, a heater tube assembly is formed which comprises the metal carbide substrate positioned within the heater tube and a mass of diamond or CBN particles positioned within the heater tube adjacent the substrate. The method includes simultaneously applying sufficient levels of pressure to the heater tube assembly and sufficient levels of electrical current to the heater tube assembly for a sufficient amount of time to cause sintering of the crystalline particles and bonding to the substrate to form a diamond or CBN tipped cutting tool.
US08663538B2
A method of making a membrane for use with a flow control system is disclosed. A female mold body portion and a male mold body portion are provided. A body portion support member configured to receive at least a portion of the female body portion and at least a portion of the male body portion is provided. The female and male body portions are separated from one another Membrane manufacturing material is provided to a concave portion of the female mold body portion. The sleeve is moved downward. The lower mold portion is lowered until it is just short of its final intended position. Excess membrane manufacturing material, if any, is removed from around the seam of the mold. The upper mold portion is lowered the remaining distance so that the two mold portions are separated by the exact distance desired for the final membrane thickness.
US08663537B2
A heatsink for use in injection molding, with at least one load-bearing path with a rearward segment, wherein at least a portion of at least one non-load-bearing, dynamic heat-transfer zone of the heatsink is laterally offset from the rearward segment of the load-bearing path.
US08663531B2
Process of making a plastic component (1), in particular luggage shell, from self-reinforced thermoplastic material, to a plastic component (1) made of self-reinforced thermoplastic material and an apparatus for making such a plastic component, in particular luggage shell (7). The invention provides a new product and process for manufacturing same on the basis of self-reinforced thermoplastic material by means of the step of tensioning said material (lamina), at least partially tensioning said lamina during all follow-up component shaping and/or molding steps up to a release of a component pre-form shape from the remainder lamina, to form the component. The present invention allow the manufacturing of an ultra-light weight luggage shell (7) on the basis of using self-reinforced thermoplastic material, the manufacturing of same can be further enhanced by permanently tensioning said material during all manufacturing steps up to the final finishing of the product.
US08663528B2
A caterpillar traction apparatus (110), wherein two pairs of pulleys (122 & 123, 132 & 133) can be driven at different speeds, so that the linear member (40) being driven by the mechanism is subjected to either compression or extension forces.
US08663509B2
A fire-retardant formulation for styrene-containing polymers comprising tris(2,4,6-tribromophenoxy)-s-triazine (FR-245), antimony trioxide and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), wherein the bromine concentration in said fire-retardant formulation is from about 9.0 to about 10.5 wt. %, said antimony trioxide concentration being lower than about 3.2 wt. %.
US08663505B2
The present invention relates to novel processes for preparing an aqueous or nonaqueous dispersion or solution comprising at least one conductive polymer and at least one polyanion, characterized in that the polymerization is performed at a pressure below atmospheric pressure, to aqueous or nonaqueous dispersions or solutions prepared by this process and to the use thereof.
US08663503B2
A method of impeding water input in an ionic liquid is provided, wherein the method comprises adding an additive to the ionic liquid wherein the additive comprises an orthoester. In particular, at least some residues of the additive may remain or may be present in the ionic liquid during the usage of the ionic liquid. For example, the additive may be formed by the orthoester or by a mixture of orthoesters.
US08663493B2
Provided is an oriented piezoelectric material with satisfactory sintering property free of Pb that is a hazardous substance, and a water-soluble alkaline ion, and a production method therefor. To this end, provided is a compound, including a tungsten bronze structure metal oxide, in which: the tungsten bronze structure metal oxide contains at least metal elements of Ba, Bi, Ca, and Nb, the metal elements satisfying the following conditions in terms of molar ratio; and has a C-axis orientation. The compound shows Ba/Nb=a: 0.363
US08663491B1
High quantum yield InP nanocrystals are used in the bio-technology, bio-medical, and photovoltaic, specifically IV, III-V and III-VI nanocrystal technological applications. InP nanocrystals typically require post-generation HF treatment. Combining microwave methodologies with the presence of a fluorinated ionic liquid allows Fluorine ion etching without the hazards accompanying HF. Growing the InP nanocrystals in the presence of the ionic liquid allows in-situ etching to be achieved. The optimization of the PL QY is achieved by balancing growth and etching rates in the reaction.
US08663489B2
A method for replacing plural substrates to be processed by a substrate processing apparatus which includes a substrate processing chamber, a load lock chamber, and a conveying apparatus including first and second conveying members for conveying the plural substrates into and out from the substrate processing chamber and the load lock chamber. The method includes the steps of a) conveying a first substrate out from the substrate processing chamber with the first conveying member, b) conveying a second substrate into the substrate processing chamber with the second conveying member, c) conveying the second substrate out from the load lock chamber with the second conveying member, and d) conveying the first substrate into the load lock chamber with the first conveying member. The steps c) and d) are performed between step a) and step b).
US08663485B2
A method of manufacturing plastic metallized 3D circuit includes the steps of providing a 3D plastic main body; performing a surface pretreatment on the plastic main body; performing a metallization process on the plastic main body to deposit a thin metal film thereon; performing a photoresist coating process to form a photoresist protective layer on the thin metal film; performing an exposure and development process on the photoresist protective layer to form a patterned photoresist protective layer; performing an etching process on the exposed thin metal film to form a patterned metal circuit layer; stripping the patterned photoresist protective layer; and performing a surface treatment on the patterned metal circuit layer to form a metal protective layer. With the method, a 3D circuit pattern can be directly formed on a 3D plastic main body without providing additional circuit carrier to thereby meet the requirement for miniaturized and compact electronic devices.
US08663472B1
A hydrocyclone (10) having a tank (12) including a fluid inlet (14), a filtered fluid outlet (16), an effluent outlet (18), a process fluid outlet (20) and an inner peripheral wall (22) enclosing three vertically aligned chambers (24, 30, 32) including a vortex chamber (24) in fluid communication with the fluid inlet through a fluid pathway (28) adapted for receiving an incoming fluid flow and generating a vortex fluid flow about a filter assembly (26) which is located within the vortex chamber which encloses a filtrate chamber (66) which is in fluid communication with the filtered fluid outlet (16). An effluent separation chamber (30) is located bellow the vortex chamber and is in fluid communication with the vortex chamber and the effluent outlet. A process fluid chamber is located bellow the effluent separation chamber and is in fluid communication with the effluent separation chamber and the process fluid outlet.
US08663470B2
A liquid filter cartridge comprising an outer casing defining an inside volume containing a filter element that separates the inside volume into an upstream space and a downstream space, the casing having an end wall defining a liquid inlet passage communicating with the upstream space, and a liquid outlet passage communicating with the downstream space, the casing being adapted for mounting on a support that includes a liquid inlet channel designed to communicate with the inlet passage, a liquid outlet channel designed to communicate with the outlet passage, and a drain channel communicating with the inlet passage. The cartridge includes a closure member fastened to the end wall of the casing and adapted to close the drain channel when the cartridge is mounted on the support.
US08663468B2
A reactor for anaerobically purifying waste water, such as waste water from the paper industry, includes a reactor vessel that has at least one inlet for supplying waste water to be purified into the reactor, at least one outlet for discharging purified water, at least one sediment filter and at least two multi-phase separator devices arranged on top of one another.
US08663467B1
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for capturing and removing oil from a body of water with equipment using rod and film technology, which includes a streamlined oil tank that moves in the water and collects surface oil from an attached skimmer, arrays of inverted funnels lowered into the water to concentrate oil for removal, and containment tents to capture leaking fuel or cargo oil from a sunken ship or any underwater oil leak and channel it into a partially submerged rod and film storage tank at the surface.
US08663459B2
Sulfur-containing compounds, including specifically thiophenic compounds, in a liquid hydrocarbon feedstream are catalytically oxidized by combining the hydrocarbon feedstream with a catalytic reaction mixture that includes a peroxide that is soluble in water or in a polar organic acid, at least one carboxylic acid, and a catalyst that is a transition metal salt selected from the group consisting of (NH4)2WO4, (NH4)6W12O40.H2O, Na2WO4, Li2WO4, K2WO4, MgWO4, (NH4)2MoO4, (NH4)6Mo7O24.4H2O, MnO0 and NaVO3; the mixture is vigorously agitated for a time that is sufficient to oxidize the sulfur-containing compounds to form sulfoxides and sulfones; the reaction mixture is allowed to stand and separate into a lower aqueous layer containing the catalyst and an upper hydrocarbon layer that is recovered and from which the oxidized sulfur compounds are removed, as by solvent extraction, distillation or selective adsorption. The process can be used to reduce the sulfur content of liquid transportation fuels to 10 ppm, or less.
US08663454B2
It has been determined that sealant fluid formulations comprising a lubricant oil derived from Fischer-Tropsch waxes demonstrate performance comparable to sealant fluid comprising lubricants derived from polyalphaolefins (PAO's). The sealant fluids of the current invention can provide excellent performance properties similar to those provided by PAO based sealant fluids, but at lower cost.
US08663449B2
A feed control method for wire cutting electrochemical discharge machining is disclosed. The method determines whether a contact event has occurred using a wire electrode, based on variations in wire tension when being cut. A wire is cut with an ideal feed speed when the wire electrode is not in contact with a workpiece.
US08663442B2
A method of measuring an analyte in a biological fluid comprises applying an excitation signal having a DC component and an AC component. The AC and DC responses are measured; a corrected DC response is determined using the AC response; and a concentration of the analyte is determined based upon the corrected DC response. Other methods and devices are disclosed.
US08663438B2
The invention relates to a target arrangement comprising a tubular-shaped carrier element and a hollow-cylindrical target having at least one target material, said target comprising at least one one-piece tube segment which at least partially surrounds the carrier element. Said carrier element and the tube segment are partially interconnected in a material fit by at least two plastically deformable compensating means. The invention also relates to a method for producing said type of target arrangement and a tubular segment.
US08663434B2
A water electrolysis system includes a water electrolysis device, a gas-liquid separator, a water-amount detector, a hydrogen storage device, a hydrogen storage device, a decompressing device, and a control device. The control device includes a residual capacity calculator, a hydrogen production amount calculator, and an electrolysis termination determiner. The residual capacity calculator is configured to calculate a residual capacity of the hydrogen storage device. The hydrogen production amount calculator is configured to calculate an amount of hydrogen produced by the water electrolysis device in a drainage period in which the amount of water in the gas-liquid separator increases to an upper limit from a lower limit. The electrolysis termination determiner is configured to terminate the water electrolysis process when the amount of hydrogen calculated by the hydrogen production amount calculator is greater than the residual capacity calculated by the residual capacity calculator.
US08663426B2
The present invention relates to a method of producing a cellulose-fiber flat structure, the method including obtaining a cellulose-fiber flat structure by filtering a fine cellulose-fiber dispersion containing fine cellulose fibers having an average fiber diameter of 4 to 100 nm, using a filter material having a water permeability of not more than 100 ml/m2·s and an initial tensile modulus of 20 MPa or greater. The present invention is able to produce a cellulose-fiber flat structure by efficiently recovering fine cellulose fibers from a dispersion containing fine cellulose fibers having an average fiber diameter at the nano level. The method of producing a cellulose-fiber flat structure can also be applied to a continuous process.
US08663425B2
The present invention provides a method for easily and efficiently manufacturing microfibrous cellulose composite sheets. The present invention is a method for manufacturing microfibrous cellulose composite sheets, including a preparation process in which a polymer emulsion is mixed with an aqueous suspension including microfibrous cellulose, thereby preparing a mixed fluid, a papermaking process in which the mixed fluid is dehydrated on a porous base material through filtration, and a sheet including moisture is formed, and a drying process in which the sheet including moisture is heated and dried. In addition, the present invention is a method for manufacturing a microfibrous cellulose composite sheet laminate, in which the microfibrous cellulose sheets are thermally compressed and thus laminated as they are or after being provided with a polymer layer on at least one surface thereof.
US08663423B2
A method, composition, and article are disclosed relating to the formation of a hump seal on an aircraft transparency. The method includes applying to the aircraft transparency an adhesive composition having a Part A and a Part B. Part A includes a plasticizer, a cross-linking agent, and an adhesion promoter. Part B includes a moisture resister and an abrasion resister, with the adhesive composition being substantially sulfide free. In one example, the moisture resister includes polybutadiene. In another example, the adhesion promoter includes an epoxy silane.
US08663421B2
An apparatus that manufactures an absorbent article includes a rotating member that rotates in a state where the rotating member is opposing one face of a continuous sheet that is moving, the rotating member having an arcuate retaining surface that retains a work, the rotating member causing the work to be moved to a position where the work is nipped between the one face and the arcuate retaining surface by rotating in a state where the work is retained on the arcuate retaining surface; and a pressing member that bonds a continuous sheet and a work together by coming into contact with another face of the continuous sheet when the work reaches the position and pressing the continuous sheet towards the arcuate retaining surface.
US08663419B2
A method of using a assembly facilitator for a pulp-molded shell with polymer liner containing systems to precisely create a integral pulp molded shell is disclosed along with the assembly facilitator itself.
US08663418B2
A method of forming a roofing product can include providing a ceramic base material having an open structure, and filling the open structure of the ceramic base material with a bituminous material. In a particular embodiment, the bituminous material has no greater than approximately 5 weight % of abrasive particles or has a first particle size distribution. The method can further include applying a recycled roofing material. In an embodiment, the recycled roofing material is applied along a principal surface of the ceramic base material or adjacent to the ceramic base material. In a particular embodiment, the recycled roofing material has at least 2 weight % acid-insoluble solids or has a second particle size distribution that is narrower than the first particle size distribution.
US08663417B2
An installation system for mounting stationary objects, such as towel holders, shelves, lights, or similar furnishing items, on an installation surface, such as a wall or a ceiling, in particular in rooms equipped with tiles, marble slabs, or similar wall coverings, includes one or more fastening elements, a lighting device, and/or an adhering and connecting agent, wherein the adhering and connecting agent is a light-curing adhesive. The one or more fastening elements can be fastened by introducing an adhering and connecting agent into an adhesive space formed by the installation surface and components of the fastening element. The fastening element has at least one at least partially transparent component for irradiating the adhering and connecting agent.
US08663411B2
A pants type disposable undergarment is provided which is equipped with a pre-fastened pull-on pant with a side lap seam formed by the methods of the present invention, and methods for producing such disposable undergarments.
US08663410B2
A label finishing station receives a web carrying printed images for labels arranged so there are a plurality of images formed in rows or ranks across the width of the web. The images are also arranged in longitudinal columns along the length of the web. A cutting station carries a plurality of cutter heads to cut out the plurality of labels forming each row or rank simultaneously. The web, with the label peripheries cut out, may be slit longitudinally and formed into finished rolls of labels.
US08663407B2
Adhesive compositions are described comprising a) a non-functional isobutylene (co)polymer, b) an amine-functional poly(isobutylene) polymer, optionally an acid-functional (meth)acrylate copolymer, and optionally a tackifier.
US08663388B2
Disclosed are a single crystal wire and other single crystal articles, and a manufacturing method thereof. The method comprises the steps of: placing into a growth crucible at least one metal selected from the group consisting of gold, copper, silver, aluminum and nickel; heating and melting the metal placed in the growth crucible; growing a single crystal using metal crystal as a seed by Czochralski or Bridgman method; cutting the grown single crystal by electric discharge machining; and machining the cut single crystal and producing a wire or other articles such as a ring. In the method, the grown metal single crystal is cut into a disc-shaped piece by electric discharge machining. The piece is transformed into a single crystal wire or other articles by wire-cut electric discharge machining, and the single crystal wire can be used as a ring, a pendant, or a wire for high-quality cables for audio and video systems. Also, the single crystal formed into the disc-shaped piece by electric discharge machining can be used as a substrate and a target for deposition.
US08663386B2
A dry cement mix based on a hydraulic binder and a glass aggregate for forming light concretes with low thermal conductivity, characterized in that said glass aggregate comprises a fine fraction consisting of granulated aggregate with a particle size from 0.5 to 2 mm, and a coarse fraction consisting of crushed aggregate with a particle size from 4 to 20 mm, obtaining for said glass aggregate a well-defined overall particle size distribution.
US08663382B2
A mixture for making a high strength phosphate cement includes monopotassium phosphate, a Group IIA metal oxide in amounts of about 20 to about 100 parts per 100 parts of the monopotassium phosphate and monocalcium orthophosphate in amounts of from about 3 to about 30 parts per 100 parts of the monopotassium phosphate. Products made from the phosphate cement have a pH of less than about 9 and the product develops a compressive strength greater than 2000 psi in 24 hours.
US08663380B2
A flame spray pyrolysis process for the preparation of ultrafine titania particles coated with a smooth, homogeneous coating of one or more metal oxides is provided. The metal oxide coating is achieved by contacting the titania particles with a metal oxide precursor downstream of the titania formation zone, after the titania particles have formed. The process provides titania particles with a high rutile content and a smooth and homogeneous coating of a metal oxide.
US08663379B2
A composition used for coating machine parts used in the production of pig iron or steel may include aluminum nitride (AlN) in a proportion of from 10% by weight to 40% by weight, one or more metal-oxidic substances in a proportion of from ≧2 to 10% by weight, of which at least one comes from the group consisting of aluminum oxide, zirconium oxide, and LD converter dust, and an inorganic binder in a proportion of up to 70% by weight, where the % by weight are based on the total weight of the composition. A suspension based on the composition, and the use of the composition or the composition suspension for coating machine parts used in the production of pig iron or steel, are also disclosed.
US08663375B2
An oil suppressing structure in an air drying device for removing oil which rises in an interior of the air drying device used in a vehicle compressed air brake system includes an outer case 21, a drying case 22 in an interior of the outer case 21, a base plate 23 fixed to a lower end portion 21a of the outer case 21, and an outer cover 24 fixed to a lower end portion 21a of the base plate 23. The drying case 22 has a large-diameter long cylindrical body portion 22A and a small-diameter long cylindrical body portion 22B. A particulate desiccating agent 25 is filled in an interior of the large-diameter cylindrical body portion 22A. An oil adsorbing material 27 is inserted in a space S3 between an inner wall of the outer case 21 and the small-diameter long cylindrical body portion 22B of the drying case 22.
US08663354B2
An air filter (111) comprising a duct (118, 120) forming a passageway extending between an inlet (116) and an outlet (113) of the air filter, the duct comprising bristles (310) extending from a wall of the duct across at least a portion of the passageway so as to remove entrained particles from air passing through the duct.
US08663349B2
Embodiments of the invention relate to polycrystalline diamond compacts (“PDCs”) and methods of fabricating polycrystalline diamond tables and PDCs in a manner that facilitates removal of metal-solvent catalyst used in the manufacture of polycrystalline diamond tables of such PDCs.
US08663347B2
A fire log is provided which is comprised of a mixture of ground mature sweet corn kernels and water. A second embodiment is disclosed wherein the fire log is comprised of ground mature sweet corn kernels, chopped or ground corn cobs and water. A third embodiment is disclosed wherein the fire log is comprised of ground mature sweet corn kernels, chopped or ground sweet corn cobs and chopped or ground sweet corn stalks mixed with water. A fourth embodiment of the fire log is disclosed wherein the fire log is comprised of ground mature sweet corn kernels, water and conventional combustible petroleum materials such as used in conventional fire logs. The mixture is pressed, formed or extruded to form cylindrical fire logs or block fire logs.
US08663342B2
The invention provides a process comprising: a crystallization step of concentrating and crystallizing the ammonium salt of sulfuric acid from an aqueous solution that contains the ammonium salt of sulfuric acid; a solid-liquid separation step of solid-liquid separating the ammonium salt of sulfuric acid obtained in the crystallization step, and a crystallization mother liquid recycling step of recycling a crystallization mother liquid obtained in the solid-liquid separation step to at least one step selected from the crystallization step and one or more steps that precede the crystallization step, in which not all of the crystallization mother liquid is recycled.
US08663338B2
Methods, devices and systems facilitate intermittent and/or partial obstruction of a pyloric valve. Devices generally include a support portion for preventing the device from passing through the pyloric valve and a tissue engagement portion for contacting tissue adjacent the pyloric valve to obstruct the valve. Some embodiments also include a positioning member extending from the tissue engagement portion for helping position the device for obstructing the valve. A retaining member may optionally be included on the distal end of the positioning member for further maintaining a position of the device in the stomach. Some embodiments are deliverable into the stomach through the esophagus, either by swallowing or through a delivery tube or catheter. Some embodiments are fully reversible. Some embodiments self-expand within the stomach, while others are inflated or otherwise expanded.
US08663333B2
A humeral component of a shoulder prosthesis encloses a stem module which has a shank and an upper shank portion with a stem support surface. A joint adapter is adapted to hold either a liner or a spherical cap. The joint adapter has an adapter support surface which interfaces with the stem support surface. Further, the stem support surface and the adapter support surface have corresponding radial arc shaped sections which allow positioning of the joint adapter against the stem module at different inclination angles. For fastening the joint adapter to the stem module, a bolt or screw is provided.
US08663331B2
A transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) implant to be placed in an intervertebral space includes a front member and a back member. The front member includes a first end having a hinge, a second end, a pair of lateral portions, a top wall and a bottom wall, an opening configured through the pair of lateral portions and a plurality of openings in each of the top wall and the bottom wall. The back member includes a first end having an arcuately-shaped attachment head comprising a receptor dimensioned and configured to accommodate the hinge of the front member, a second end, a pair of lateral portions, a top wall, a bottom wall and an opening configured through the pair of lateral portions. The top wall and the bottom wall of the back member further comprise a plurality of openings.
US08663325B2
The present disclosure relates to a soft tissue graft anchor. The anchor includes a plurality of prongs, each prong including a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the prongs are coupled at their distal ends to form an inner cavity having an opening, at least one of the prongs including a fin, the fin extending perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the prong and including a pointed end. A tissue graft anchor assembly, a method for tissue repair, and instrumentation for use therewith are also disclosed.
US08663323B2
The present invention relates to an item, such as an external breast prosthesis, an anti-decubitus cushion or mattress, comprising a closed envelope A made of a soft material and containing as filler a silicone gel that comprises an odor masking active ingredient C.
US08663322B2
A device for improving the function of a heart valve comprises a first loop-shaped support, which is configured to abut a first side of the heart valve, and a first flange unit being connected to said first loop-shaped support. The flange unit is configured to be arranged against said annulus when said first loop-shaped support is abutting said heart valve.
US08663314B2
The present invention relates to stent structures having improved migration resistance. In particular, the invention relates to mesh stents, such as braided or twisted stent designs, where at least a portion of the stent is folded back over itself to form a multi-layered stent device. Such multi-layered portions provide for migration resistance, among other advantages.
US08663313B2
In at least one embodiment, a stent comprises an expandable framework comprising a plurality of serpentine bands and a plurality of connector struts. Each serpentine band comprises a plurality of alternating struts and turns. A plurality of the serpentine bands each have their proximal turns aligned on a common stent circumference and comprise first distal turns and second distal turns. The first distal turns are aligned with one another on a common stent circumference. The second distal turns aligned with one another on another common stent circumference. Each band in the plurality comprises first struts and second struts. Each first strut is attached between a proximal turn and a first distal turn, and each second strut is attached between a proximal turn and a second distal turn. The second struts are wider than said first struts.
US08663311B2
Expandable biodegradable devices formed of bistable and multistable unit cells for use in devices, such as stents and graft systems, are provided, in which the device has two or more stable configurations, including a contracted configuration and an expanded configuration, the contracted stable configuration having a smaller diameter than the expanded configuration.
US08663297B2
A method of anchoring an implant in hard tissue, and/or hard tissue replacement material, includes the steps of providing an initial opening in the hard tissue, providing a thermoplastic augmentation element, a tool and a counter element, compressing the augmentation element between the tool and the counter element while energy is coupled into the tool and while a periphery of a liquefaction interface of the tool and the augmentation element and/or of a liquefaction interface of the augmentation element and the counter element is in the opening, thereby liquefying material of the augmentation element at the liquefaction interface(s) to yield liquefied material, causing portions of the liquefied material to penetrate into structures of the hard tissue, allowing the liquefied material to harden and to thereby become augmentation material, removing the tool and the counter element, and anchoring the implant in the opening including at least some of the augmentation material.
US08663293B2
A system for treating a facet joint of a patient. The facet joint includes a superior articular face and an inferior articular face. The system includes a resurfacing device, an implant insertion tool and a guide cannula. The resurfacing device is positionable between a superior articular face of a facet joint and an inferior articular face of a facet joint. The implant insertion tool is adapted to engage the resurfacing device. The guide cannula has a passage extending therethrough. The guide cannula passage is adapted to receive at least a portion of the resurfacing device and the implant insertion tool.
US08663281B2
Apparatus and instruments for percutaneously extending an existing spinal construct ipsilaterally with an additional spinal construct in a patient are disclosed. The additional spinal construct comprises a rod connector that includes an elongate additional rod integrally attached thereto. The additional rod is placed through an access port in a first orientation generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the access port and rotated to a different second orientation generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of the access port. During such rotation the additional rod is moved subcutaneously beneath the skin of the patient from the existing spinal rod to an additional bone engaging implant. In another arrangement, the extension of an existing spinal construct in a minimally invasive procedure comprises a rod connector having an offset support for receiving an additional spinal rod that may be placed laterally interiorly or exteriorly of the existing spinal construct.
US08663271B2
An in-dwelling port for providing repeated entry to a body during and/or after an operation is described. The port may include an external portion secured to a body outside an incision and a collapsible insertion portion that is inserted through the incision. The collapsible portion collapses when no instrument or lumen is present to permits the body to return to substantially a normal profile around the incision.
US08663266B1
A wire protector to cover an exposed portion of a device inserted into an organism comprises a removable backing layer removably joined to an attachment layer, and a transparent covering layer. The wire protector has a first end and a protector strip, the first end including a site wall and a connector wall, the site wall defining an insertion site therein, the site wall further comprising one or more prongs, the prongs facing the insertion site, the protector strip comprising one or more strip walls, such that when the backing layer is removed from the attachment layer, first end is positioned over the device insertion site, the protector strip is positioned over the exposed portion of the device, the protector device covers the exposed device portion. The wire protector stabilizes and protects needle localization wires used in breast biopsies, and can be used for other implanted devices. Also disclosed is a method for covering such exposed portion of such inserted device.
US08663259B2
A rotational thrombectomy wire for breaking up vascular thrombus or other obstructive material having a core having a proximal portion and a distal portion. The distal portion has a smaller diameter than the proximal portion. A cable extends distally of the core. The cable has a first covering material positioned external thereof. A first coil is attached to a distal portion of the cable and has a diameter larger than a diameter of the cable and has a second covering material positioned thereover. The wire is rotatable by a motor.
US08663257B2
An apparatus and method for using an anastomosis device to repair severed tissues resulting from a surgical medical procedure such as a radical prostatectomy, ilio-orthotopic neobladder construction, cystoprostatectomy, cystectomy, urethral anastomosis, or ureteral anastomosis.
US08663256B2
A method of laparoscopically repairing a hernia defect comprises inserting into the patient's abdomen a surgical mesh sheet larger than the hernia defect and having a fixation fin with its proximal edge attached to a surface of the sheet. The mesh sheet is manipulated into position with the sheet surface in place at the peritoneal surface of the patient's abdominal wall and the fixation fin disposed in the hernia defect. The method reapproximates opposing edges of the defect by suturing them together with the fixation fin between them, after which the distal edge of the fixation fin is below the external surface of the patient's abdomen. The sheet is then laparoscopically positioned and anchored to the abdominal wall peritoneal surface.
US08663247B2
A tissue clipping apparatus, comprises a flexible, elongate member, a proximal end of which remains external to the body accessible to a user while a distal end of the flexible member is inserted into the body to a location adjacent to target tissue to be clipped and a control wire extending through the flexible member in combination with a capsule releasably coupled to a distal end of the flexible member and a clip a proximal portion of which is received within the capsule. A joint releasably coupling the clip to the control wire, includes a yoke extending around a proximal end of the clip and a frangible link which fails when subject to a predetermined force to separate the clip from the control wire.
US08663246B2
A method of deforming a plurality of surgical fasteners is provided. The method includes the step of providing a surgical instrument having a loading unit supporting the plurality of surgical fasteners in an array, the surgical instrument having a handle, a distal link, an intermediate link, and a proximal link. The method further includes the steps of moving the handle in a direction to pivot the intermediate link to a position in which the distal link, intermediate link, and proximal link have a fully-extended position, compressing a spring disposed adjacent the proximal link, deforming the surgical fasteners, moving the handle further in the direction, pivoting the intermediate link to another position in which the distal link, intermediate link, and proximal link have a deflected position and releasing the surgical fasteners from the loading unit.
US08663244B2
An applicator for applying a barbed fastener to a body tissue-is provided. The applicator comprises an elongated tubular portion having a longitudinal axis extending from a proximal end to a distal end and having a tube interior sized and configured for receiving the barbed fastener. An elongate driver is disposed at least partially inside the tube interior, the driver having a driver engaging portion at its distal end. The driver engaging portion is adapted to engage the barbed fastener in a firing position adjacent the distal end of the elongated tubular portion. The applicator also comprises; a driver actuator assembly adjacent the driver at its proximal end, the driver actuator assembly being adapted for selectively imparting an impulse force to the driver. The driver is configured for transmitting the impulse force to the barbed fastener.
US08663239B2
The invention is incorporated into a tissue removal and manipulation device for vaginal hysterectomies and related surgeries. The present invention solves the suturing problem of the prior art devices by providing a device that not only can manipulate the uterus during surgery but remove the uterus without the need for suturing.
US08663234B2
A feeler gauge and alignment device comprises a first outer shim having a first end, a second end, and an alignment aperture disposed between the first end and the second end, a second outer shim having a first end, a second end, and an alignment aperture disposed between the first end and the second end, and one or more inner shims disposed between the first outer shim and the second outer shim, each of the one or more inner shims having a first end, a second end, and an alignment aperture disposed between the first end and the second end. The first outer shim, the second outer shim, and the one or more inner shims are rotatably coupled about the first ends.
US08663231B2
An apparatus and method for introducing portals into bone is described herein. An example apparatus for introducing portals into bone includes a handle, a base, and a driving member. The driving member can be made to project past the base by operating the handle. The base is detachable from the handle. The apparatus also includes a guide coupled at a first end to the handle and at a second end to the base. The base is detachably coupled to the guide. A base coupling detachably coupling the base to the guide includes an actuating member movable between a coupled configuration wherein the base is coupled to the guide and an uncoupled configuration wherein the base is released from the guide. The actuating member is arranged so that motion of the handle toward the base moves the actuating member from the coupled configuration to the uncoupled configuration.
US08663227B2
Single-unit cutting head systems for safe removal of nucleus pulposis tissue are provided. The cutting heads compose a part of the systems that are provided to address several problems, including clogging of state-of-the-art systems during removal of such tissue, for example. The target tissue can include any tissue that is accessible through a small surgical opening, for example, a joint tissue such as a meniscus or an intervertebral tissue, such as a nucleus pulposus. The devices can be referred to as orthopedic tissue removal devices having cutting heads associated with vacuum systems, making the systems useful in several procedures, including X-LIF (lateral approach to an intervertebral fusions) procedures, T-LIF (transforaminal approach to intervertebral fusions) procedures, P-LIF (posterior approach to intervertebral fusions), and a percutaneous, transforaminal approach (Kambin triangle access).
US08663224B2
A surgical nail for treating a fractured bone includes a nail body extending along a longitudinal axis from a trailing end to a leading end and including a trailing end locking aperture extending transversely through a trailing end portion thereof and a leading end locking aperture extending transversely through a leading end portion thereof; a trailing end connecting element located at the trailing end of the nail body adapted and configured to be coupled to a trailing end aiming guide; and a leading end connecting element at the leading end of the nail body adapted and configured to be coupled to a leading end aiming guide.
US08663222B2
An end effector assembly includes opposed jaws moveable from an open to a closed position for grasping tissue therebetween. Each jaw includes an electrically conductive surface adapted to conduct electrosurgical energy through tissue disposed between the jaws. A static bipolar cutting portion including at least one electrically conductive cutting element and at least one insulating element having a first configuration is disposed on at least one of the jaws. The static cutting portion is configured to electrically cut tissue disposed between the jaws upon activation of the cutting element and at least one of an opposing sealing surface and an opposing cutting element. A dynamic cutting portion including at least one electrically conductive cutting element and at least one insulating element having a second configuration is disposed on at least one of the jaws. The dynamic cutting portion electrically transects tissue during movement relative to tissue.
US08663220B2
In one general aspect, various embodiments are directed to a surgical instrument that can supply mechanical energy and electrical energy to an end effector of the surgical instrument. The surgical instrument may be operated in a first operating mode in which a transducer of the surgical instrument produces mechanical energy, or vibrations, that are transmitted to the end effector and a second operating mode in which electrical energy, or current, can flow through the end effector to perform electrosurgery. In another general aspect, the surgical instrument may comprise a clamp, or jaw, which can be moved into a closed position to hold tissue against a waveguide, or blade, of the end effector. In the second operating mode of the surgical instrument, current can flow from a power source, through the waveguide, and return to the power source through a path comprising the jaw.
US08663215B2
A high-frequency cauterization power source is an electrosurgical apparatus for joining biological tissues. The electrosurgical apparatus includes a high frequency power supply portion for supplying a high frequency power that is applied to biological tissues; a detection portion for detecting a voltage and a current of a high frequency power that is output from the high frequency power supply portion; a tissue impedance calculating portion that calculates an impedance of biological tissue based on respective values for voltage and current detected at the detection portion; and a control portion that controls so as to substantially stop supply of the high frequency power from the high frequency power supply portion based on whether or not an increase greater than or equal to a predetermined value in the impedance that is calculated at the tissue impedance calculating portion occurs two times.
US08663214B2
A system for performing an electrosurgical procedure at a surgical site is disclosed. The system includes a sensor configured to continually sense an electrical and/or a physical property of tissue at a surgical site and to generate a sensor signal as a function thereof. The system also includes a control module configured to process the sensor signal using a processor, an algorithm, and a map having one or more predetermined values. The control module is further configured to compare the sensor signal to a predetermined level to determine reliability of the sensor signal and to signal an electrosurgical generator in response to a reliable sensor signal such that the electrosurgical generator enters energy control mode, wherein the electrosurgical generator matches an output of the control signal with a predetermined value from the map.
US08663212B2
A tissue treatment device comprises an insertion section sized and shaped for insertion into the body via a trocar and a diagnostic element coupled to the insertion section, the diagnostic element illuminating tissue with light of a wavelength selected to facilitate identification of target tissue in combination with an ultrasound element coupled to the insertion section for delivering to a portion of tissue illuminated by the diagnostic element ultrasound energy.
US08663210B2
A therapeutic energy system for performing interstitial laser therapy and brachytherapy includes two categories of components. The first category includes components usable to perform both interstitial laser therapy and brachytherapy. The second category of components includes components usable to perform either interstitial laser therapy or brachytherapy, but not both. The components co-act to apply therapeutic energy to tissue. The components of the first system include components inserted percutaneously into the tissue, such that interstitial laser therapy and brachytherapy can be performed sequentially without removing and re-inserting percutaneous components. Components of the second category include components not requiring additional puncturing of the skin of a patient, such that removing and inserting components of the second category from a patient is done easily and painlessly. An energy probe component does not maintain a cavity around the tumor mass. Surgical excision of tissue can be performed coincident to therapeutic energy treatment as disclosed.
US08663209B2
A clearing module is provided that includes a main body configured and dimensioned to be received within a vessel or duct of a patient, adjacent a surgical target area in the patient. The main body includes: an instruction receiving unit configured to receive wireless instructions from an instruction transmitter located outside the patient's body while the module is located inside of the patient's body; a positioning element configured to be monitored by a system external of the patient's body while the positioning element is inside the patient's body; and a destructive energy emitter configured to emit destructive energy from the module toward the surgical target area according to instructions received from the instructions receiving unit.
US08663199B2
A wound exudate removal and isolation system includes a porous dressing, a canister in fluid communication with the dressing, and a first valve positioned between the dressing and the canister. The first valve is positionable between an open position and a closed position. A disposal line is fluidly connected to the canister and includes a second valve that is positionable between an open position and a closed position. A pump is fluidly connected to the canister and is configured to draw wound exudate from the dressing into the canister when the first valve is open and the second valve is closed. The pump is configured to force wound exudate from the canister into the disposal line when the first valve is closed and the second valve is open.
US08663198B2
A wound therapy device and a kit for same with a housing material, a gasket disposed around at least a portion of the housing material, a non-woven absorption material, and a port. The gasket is sized and configured such that at least a first portion of the gasket will be adhered to a second portion of the gasket upon a folding of the housing material. A method of using a wound therapy device.
US08663196B2
An endovascular sheath apparatus 2 is provided. The endovascular sheath apparatus 2 includes an inner tube 12 that includes a lumen 26 for introducing medical fluids or devices and an outer surface. The apparatus 2 further includes an outer tube 22 with an interior surface. The outer and inner surfaces define a cavity 28 therebetween. The apparatus 2 still further includes a stiffening component 20 which in one embodiment includes a braided material that is at least partially received in at least part of the cavity 28. An actuating mechanism 18 cooperates with the stiffening component 20. A method of providing intravascular delivery of a sheath includes the steps of providing an inner tube 12; positioning a stiffening component 20 around the inner tube 12; and deploying an actuating mechanism 18 that cooperates with the stiffening component 20, a stiffness characteristic of which being adjustable extra-corporeally by movement of the actuating mechanism in combination with the stiffening component.
US08663195B2
A rotational atherectomy device for abrading a stenotic lesion from a vessel of a patient comprises a flexible drive shaft which extends towards a distal end of the device, a distal fluid inflatable support element located at a distal end of the drive shaft and an abrasive element mounted to the drive shaft proximal to and spaced away from the distal fluid inflatable support element. Both the abrasive element and the distal fluid inflatable support element are rotatable together with the drive shaft.
US08663193B2
A method for preparing a solution from a solvent and an active substance in and on a disposable injector with a housing, with an at least intermittently fillable cylinder/piston unit which is arranged thereon and has a manually movable piston, and with a detachable container adapter mounted upstream of the cylinder/piston unit, wherein the container adapter supports a container which can be filled at least temporarily with active substance and which is closable by an openable stopper.
US08663188B2
A dispensing device comprises a sealed package including a collapsible compartment and an administration assembly. The administration assembly includes a delivery device in fluid communication with a substance within the sealed package. A compression panel collapses the compartment to dispense a substance through the delivery device. Embodiments for a single use dispenser for hypodermic administration of a unit dose of a therapeutic fluid, as well as therapeutic packages and methods for administering therapeutic substances to subjects, are also provided.
US08663170B2
A valve assembly includes a valve housing having an upper body portion and a lower body portion that define an internal chamber for accommodating a valve member. The housing has axially aligned inlet and outlet ports. The valve assembly includes a generally spherical valve member seated within the internal chamber that defines first and second bores. The first bore defines a first longitudinal axis and the second bore defines a second longitudinal axis offset relative to the first longitudinal axis. The valve member is mounted for movement between a first position and a second position. The valve assembly includes a caroming mechanism for moving the valve member between the first position and the second position, including cam surfaces formed on the exterior surface of the valve member and a cam pin formed on the interior surface of the upper body portion of the housing.
US08663166B2
A dual head contrast media injection system performs a patency check or test injection, determining flow rate and/or flow volume from the programmed protocol. The tubing that connects syringes to a patient shares only a short common section near to the patient. Appropriate injection steps are taken to compensate for tubing elasticity. A wireless remote control and a touch screen control are provided, improving functionality and information delivery. The display brightness is controlled based on the ambient light, and the display panel includes a double swivel permitting re-orientation. The orientation of the display may also be controlled based on, e.g., the current step, the tilt angle of the powerhead, or a manual control. Furthermore, the display is customizable to identify the type of fluid (contrast, saline, etc.) on either side of the injector, to provide matched color coding, and to provide a folder/tab analogy for retrieving injection protocol parameters.
US08663161B2
A heating system for warming nutritional liquid fed to a neonate or preterm infant may comprise a control module and a heater. The heating system is portable so that the heating system is not connected to a syringe pump or other device used to feed the neonate. The heater of the heating system is mounted to the tube that is used to feed the neonate. The heater is positioned along the tube in close proximity to the neonate so that a temperature drop of the nutritional liquid after the nutritional liquid exits the heater and reaches the neonate is negligible. The heater raises the temperature of the nutritional liquid to a target desired temperature (e.g., body temperature of the mother and neonate or to a temperature above the temperature of the mother and neonate) so that the neonate may consume warm nutritional fluid. Once the nutritional liquid reaches the neonate, the nutritional liquid is at about the body temperature of the mother or neonate or at least above room temperature.
US08663160B2
A priming indicator for a fluid infusion system includes a luer cap or other component of the infusion system having an indicator surface covered by a membrane. The membrane exhibits a first visual characteristic, such as being opaque, when dry and exhibits a second characteristic, such as becoming less opaque, when wet. Once the membrane becomes wet, indicia on the surface, which may be provided on a rod at least partially covered by the membrane, becomes visible, thereby indicating an intravenous tube to which the luer cap is secured has been primed or is nearly primed. The indicator may alternately be employed at an upstream end of an infusion set, such as at the port of a medical bag providing a supply of fluid, to indicate a low level of fluid in the medical bag.
US08663158B2
A method for tilling needleless injector capsules with liquid drug, whereby dissolved gas within the drug is replaced by a less soluble gas in order to reduce the inclusion of gas bubbles, or to prevent the growth of bubbles during storage and thereby prevent breakage of the capsules.
US08663157B2
A fluid management system with a detection circuit for detecting whether an attached surgical device is operational. The fluid management system changes at least one operation mode when the surgical device is detected as being operational. The fluid management system may include inflow, outflow, or inflow/outflow capabilities, and monitors at least one signal characteristic of an AC power signal provided to the surgical device.
US08663152B2
An electrosurgical method for treating foot ulcer, including diabetic foot ulcer, comprising: positioning an active electrode in close proximity to the ulcer, the active electrode being disposed on a distal end of an electrosurgical shaft; applying a high-frequency voltage potential difference across the active electrode and a return electrode in the presence of an electrically conductive fluid, the voltage potential being sufficient to generate plasma at the active electrode; and stimulating the ulcer with the active electrode to increase blood flow, remove unhealthy tissue and induce the body's natural healing response.
US08663151B2
The present disclosure is directed to alleviating the uncomfortable and unpleasant sensations that may accompany insertion and removal of personal care devices. Specifically, the present disclosure is directed to a personal care device that includes a moisture-activated composition that becomes lubricious only upon contact with moisture, such as from mucosal surfaces in the body.
US08663150B2
A method of deploying an ocular implant into Schlemm's canal of an eye. The method includes the steps of inserting a distal end of a cannula through a cornea of the eye and into an anterior chamber of the eye, the cannula having a distal opening extending from the distal end and through a side wall; placing the distal opening of the cannula into fluid communication with Schlemm's canal; advancing the ocular implant distally through the cannula with a delivery tool engaged with the ocular implant, a proximal portion of the ocular implant engaging the delivery tool proximal to a distal portion of the delivery tool; and disengaging the ocular implant and the delivery tool when the proximal portion of the ocular implant reaches the cannula distal opening. The invention also includes a system for practicing the method.
US08663149B2
A gastroplasty method involves a staple line that terminates prior to reaching the gastroesophageal junction such that the bypassed portion of the stomach does not require resection. Additionally, bougies are taught that assist a physician in following the improved staple line of the present invention.
US08663147B2
The invention relates to the use of a specific ligand for antibodies, preferably autoantibodies in the manufacture of a column for the treatment of thromboangiitis obliterans. The invention pertains furthermore to the apharesis column with at least one anti-IgG antibody for the treatment of thromboangiitis obliterans.
US08663145B2
A method of treating a patient with a strap is provided. The method includes providing a strap including a retainer portion, a base portion opposing the retainer portion, a foam layer having a first surface, and a fabric layer having a second surface, the foam layer having an elasticity greater than the fabric layer, contacting a body portion of a patient with the first surface, and retaining the strap against the body portion by connecting the retainer portion to the second surface.
US08663136B1
The wheeled support assembly for the disabled is an assembly designed to assist a disabled person to walk steadily. The assembly includes a wheeled frame having a detachable body harness. The body harness is adapted to fit around the torso of the disabled person and to provide back support therefor. The body harness includes a pair of articulated columns for removable attachment to the disabled person's legs. The lower end of each column terminates in a foot member, wherein the disabled person may insert his/her feet. When attached to the wheeled frame, the harness stabilizes the disabled person's body within the frame such that movement of the legs will propel the entire assembly. The assembly also includes rubber handles, an alarm clock and an audible emergency alert device.
US08663135B2
In a belt buckle device including a tongue piece (75, 76; 210; 310) connected to an end of a belt extending in a longitudinal direction and a hook member (68, 70; 220; 320) configured to be selectively connected to the tongue piece by engaging a first lateral bar of the tongue piece in a hook opening (111; 226; 326) defined by a hook portion (71, 72; 225; 324) thereof, a longitudinal dimension (B) between the free end of the tongue piece and a base end side of the first lateral bar is substantially equal to or smaller than a width (A) of the entrance of the hook opening, and the effective thickness (C) of the first lateral bar is greater than the width (A) of the entrance of the hook opening. Thus, the first lateral bar is held inside the hook opening as long as the tongue piece is kept in a flat position in a reliable manner. In particular, the first lateral bar can be freely introduced into the hook opening simply by raising the base end of the tongue piece while the first lateral bar is applied to the entrance of the hook opening so that the belt buckle device can be readily fastened even when the belt buckle device cannot be viewed from a proper viewing angle. Also, the belt buckle device can be readily fastened with a minimum dexterity requirement and very quickly.
US08663128B2
The present invention provides a diagnostic method comprising continuously monitoring and transmitting urine output and urine flow rates of a catheterized patient to means which correlate the same with at least one of renal perfusion, renal function, fluid status, polyuria, oleguria, hypoperfusion, hemorrhage shock and GFR.
US08663127B2
A device is directly or indirectly connectable to a patient for determining a volume related to the lungs of the patient. The device has an inspiration part through which a breathing gas passes towards the patient, and an expiration part through which the breathing gas passes away from the patient. The inspiration part has a mouthpiece for introducing a change of the gas composition in the breathing gas. The device implements a method for determining the volume with a detector being arranged in the expiration part that measures a measuring parameter which is dependent on the change in the gas composition, and with a calculation unit connected to the detector unit that determines the variation in the measuring parameter, and determines the volume from the determined variation.
US08663126B1
The wearable acoustic device for monitoring breathing sounds includes an acoustic sensor and audible/visual indicators triggered by device electronics indicating normal, abnormal, and severity of abnormal bronchial asthmatic breathing. An elastic belt holds the device. Fasteners disposed on the belt allow the belt to be secured around the baby's chest. An oximeter may be connected to the device to measure percentage oxygen intake of the baby. A processor disposed in the device processes the oximeter and acoustic signals via an algorithmic sequence that looks for oxygen intake and the presence of bronchial asthmatic breathing vs. a normal breathing/oxygen intake sample stored in memory on the device. A transmitter powered by rechargeable batteries wirelessly transmits the alarm condition to the baby's caretaker. Depending on the normality/severity of the infant's breathing, an audible alarm sounds. The visual indicator displays severity of the breathing condition.
US08663123B2
An apparatus for outputting heart sounds includes an implantable system and an external system. The implantable system includes a sensor for generating sensed signals representing detected heart sounds, an interface circuit and a control circuit for receiving the sensed signals, generating data representing the heart sounds therefrom, and transmitting the data to the external system via the interface circuit. The external system includes an interface circuit for communicating with the implantable system, and a control circuit for receiving the data representing the heart sounds and for generating control signals that cause an output device to generate outputs representing the sounds. The implantable system may also include a sensor(s) for detecting cardiac electrical signals. In this case, outputs representing the cardiac electrical signals are also output.
US08663121B2
The presence of a cardiac pulse in a patient is determined by evaluating fluctuations in an electrical signal that represents a measurement of the patient's transthoracic impedance. Impedance signal data obtained from the patient is analyzed for a feature indicative of the presence of a cardiac pulse. Whether a cardiac pulse is present in the patient is determined based on the feature in the impedance signal data. Electrocardiogram (ECG) data may also be obtained in time coordination with the impedance signal data. Various applications for the pulse detection of the invention include detection of PEA and prompting PEA-specific therapy, prompting defibrillation therapy and/or CPR, and prompting rescue breathing depending on detection of respiration.
US08663095B2
A marker to be attached to an endoscopic treatment tool for precisely directing a tip of the treatment tool to a target site with no additional physical burden to the patient is provided. A marker 1 used in an endoscopic treatment tool to be inserted in a guide sheath, the marker including: a body 2; and a tip section 4A for removably fixing the body 2 to a middle section of the endoscopic treatment tool, wherein the distance between the body 2 and a tip of the endoscopic treatment tool can be determined freely.
US08663081B2
A folding score having a pair of laterally spaced, parallel scoring grooves which are individually asymmetrical. This invention also relates to a method and apparatus for forming the folding score.
US08663078B2
Roller for treating a paper web, particularly apt to be used within an embossing or a calendering unit, including a central fixed shaft (10) linked to a fixed frame (11) on both its ends, on the shaft (10) more low-friction elements (12) being mounted, on the low-friction elements a tubular skirt (2) being mounted coaxially with the shaft (10), the skirt (2) being free to rotate about the longitudinal axis (x-x) of the shaft (10) and being subject to vibrations during the rotation. The roller including structure for dampening vibrations, the dampening structure being provided and acting between the skirt (2) and the shaft (10).
US08663072B2
An exercise device includes first and second coupling systems at each comprise a flexible element. In one implementation, the exercise device further comprises a step height adjustment mechanism. The flexible element of the first and second coupling systems couples at least one crank to a right foot support and a left foot support. The step height adjustment mechanism allows a person to adjust a step height of a path through which the left and right foot supports move.
US08663058B2
A brake assembly for a mobile machine is disclosed. The brake assembly may have a stationary spindle, and a main brake housing annularly connected at a first axial end to the stationary spindle and at least partially forming a first control chamber. The brake assembly may also have a park brake housing annularly connected to a second axial end of the main brake housing and at least partially forming a second control chamber, and at least one piloting feature disposed between an inner annular surface of the park brake housing and an outer annular surface of the stationary spindle.
US08663057B2
An automated manual transmission which improves merchantability of a vehicle by preventing a shift feeling deterioration phenomenon and forming a smooth and stable shift feeling by removing a torque decrease phenomenon caused during a shift by dualizing a transmission path of power supplied to drive the vehicle during the shift through a relatively simple and compact configuration while using a synchro-mesh type shift mechanism.
US08663056B2
A transmission comprising four gear sets (P1, P2, P3, P4), eight shafts and six shift elements. The drive shaft is connected with sun gear of set (P1) and carrier of set (P4). Carrier of set (P1) is connected to shaft (3) which is connectable to a housing, via a first brake, and connectable to shaft (5), via clutch (35). Shaft (5) interconnects the ring gear of set (P2) with the sun gears of sets (P3, P4). Shaft (6) interconnects ring gear of set (P1) with carrier of set (P2). Shaft (4) couples sun gear of set (P2) to the housing, via a brake. Ring gear of set (P3) is connected to the housing. The output shaft is connectable, via clutch (27), with shaft (7) which is connected to ring gear of set (P4) and, via clutch (28), with shaft (8) which is connected to carrier of set (P3).
US08663055B2
The invention concerns an automatic transmission of planetary structure, comprising a drive input shaft (AN), a drive output shaft (AB), first, second, third and fourth planetary gear sets (RS1, RS2, RS3, RS4) and six shifting element (A, B, C, D, E, F). By the selective engagement of three of a total of six shifting elements (A to F), ten forward gears and up to two reverse gears can be engaged without range shifts.
US08663054B2
A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, three planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes.
US08663051B2
An axle assembly with an input member, a first planetary gear set, a differential assembly, and a second planetary gear set. The first planetary gear set has a first transmission input that is driven by the input member. The differential assembly has a differential carrier and first and second differential output members received in the differential carrier. The second planetary gear set has a planet carrier coupled to the differential carrier for common rotation. A sun gear of the first planetary gear set is non-rotatably coupled to a sun gear of the second planetary gear set.
US08663050B2
Inventive embodiments are directed to components, subassemblies, systems, and/or methods for continuously variable transmissions (CVT). In one embodiment, a control system is adapted to facilitate a change in the ratio of a CVT. In another embodiment, a control system includes a stator plate configured to have a plurality of radially offset slots. Various inventive traction planet assemblies and stator plates can be used to facilitate shifting the ratio of a CVT. In some embodiments, the traction planet assemblies include planet axles configured to cooperate with the stator plate. In one embodiment, the stator plate is configured to rotate and apply a skew condition to each of the planet axles. In some embodiments, a stator driver is operably coupled to the stator plate. Embodiments of a traction sun are adapted to cooperate with other components of the CVT to support operation and/or functionality of the CVT. Among other things, shift control interfaces for a CVT are disclosed.
US08663049B1
A speed reducer includes a rotation member including internal main rollers; a rear carrier including a central through hole and eccentric stepped-diameter holes; a front carrier including a central through hole and recesses; a front wheel including a first through hole, second through holes, and front rollers on an edge to be in contact with the main rollers; a rear wheel including a third through hole, fourth through holes, and rear rollers on an edge to be in contact with the main rollers; coupling members for holding the front carrier, the front wheel, the rear wheel, and the rear carrier together; outer gear assemblies each rotatably disposed in the eccentric stepped-diameter hole, the fourth through hole, the second through hole, and the recess; and a central gear unit being in gear mesh with the outer gear assemblies.
US08663043B2
A device for guiding and supporting the cable for actuating a front derailleur for bicycles. The device provides the cable guide parts with alternative cable routing paths, wherein the cable guide parts are securely connected to the connecting arm. The cable clamping screw for clamping the control cable is housed in a space saving manner in an opening in the cable guide part, wherein a direct transfer of the actuating forces to the connecting arm is possible with small frictional losses.
US08663038B2
The invention therefore provides a basketball hoop and net assembly having (i) a hoop or ring and a wave shaped rail attached thereto which depends downwardly from the hoop or ring so as to form a plurality of valleys thereby to provide apertures between the hoop or ring and each valley; and (ii) a net assembly having a top cord and a multiplicity of upper net loops attached thereto characterized in that the top cord has a multiplicity of inner parts and a plurality of outer parts and each inner part extends through a pair of adjacent primary apertures and each outer part is located outwardly of a secondary aperture wherein each secondary aperture is located proximal to a respective primary aperture and each upper net loop extends around each outer part.
US08663032B2
Golf balls may include a first pole, a second pole, and a seam located between the first and second poles. Dimples are formed on a surface of the ball in a pattern that includes a plurality of repeating sectors around each pole of the ball. The sectors on one ball half are rotationally offset across the seam line from the sectors on the other ball half. Additionally, each individual sector includes a line of symmetry over which the dimple pattern on one half of the sector is mirrored on the other half. A variety of different dimple types also may be arranged on a golf ball surface, e.g., within the sectors described above. Additional aspects of this invention relate to the features of various layers of a multi-piece golf ball and to methods of making golf balls having at least some of the features mentioned above.
US08663029B2
A golf club head includes a body defining an interior cavity. The body includes a sole positioned at a bottom portion of the golf club head, a crown positioned at a top portion, and a skirt positioned around a periphery between the sole and crown. The body has a forward portion and a rearward portion. The club head includes a face positioned at the forward portion of the body. The face defines a striking surface having an ideal impact location at a golf club head origin. Some embodiments of the club head form a club head for a fairway wood that has a high moment of inertia, a low center-of-gravity and a thin crown.
US08663025B2
A golf ball has indicia adapted to allow a user to align the indicia with at least one of an intended direction of travel of the ball and a club head of a club the user will use to strike the ball. The indicia can be three parallel circles extending around the golf ball. A golf club can be provided with a marking on the club head adapted to align with the indicia on the golf ball.
US08663017B1
A method for conducting matrix judging of a competition. The method includes receiving competition information for a competition. Calculating a rating value for each of the two or more rating adjectives, receiving one or more entries which are submitted into the competition associated with the received competition information. Conducting at least one round of judging. Each round of judging comprises sending, to one or more judging terminals, round information. Receiving from each of the one or more judging terminals, voting information. Calculating a criteria score for each of the one or more evaluation criteria for each entry. Calculating a round score for each entry. Ranking entries in the round. Removing losing entries and sending score data for each of the losing entries to a respective contestant. Determining whether the round is the last round and, if the round is the last round of judging, sending score data to each respective contestant for each of the one or more remaining entries.
US08663016B2
A game system (1) is provided with a monitor (3), a touch panel (4) and a sequence data storage device which stores sequence data in which operation time of the touch panel (4) during a game and appearance time when an object (O) for indicating an operation at the operation time is displayed on a game area (A). The game system (1) accepts a determination operation of an appearance position which determines the appearance position (p) of the object (O) in correspondence to the appearance time from the touch panel (4) generates the object (O) at the appearance position (p), changes the way (W) until the object (O) arrives in a determination line (Li) based on the appearance position (p) and changes an arrival position where the object (O) arrives in the determination line (Li).
US08663013B2
Described are methods, systems, apparatuses, computer program products embodied in a computer-readable storage medium and means for providing online challenges between bands in a musical video game. Typically the invention is executed on a game server in signal communication with a game platform and involves receiving, by the game server, musical game input data representing a musical performance of a band. Then, the game server calculates a composite score from the input data based on a gameplay challenge. Then the composite score is compared to a composite score of a second band's performance for the same gameplay challenge. In some embodiments, the comparison is displayed as a real-time representation of the two bands, even though score of the second band is based on a stored performance of the second band.
US08663010B2
Techniques and systems for remote gaming are presented. Gaming applications reside and process on portable gaming cards and the portable gaming cards are remote from the gaming terminal. Moreover, the portable gaming cards are interfaced to a gaming system processor, which facilitates the processing of the gaming applications. Interactions with the gaming terminal result in the remote and portable gaming card processing an appropriate gaming application. The results produced are communicated back to the gaming terminal. Furthermore, the results may alter multimedia presented or played on the gaming terminal.
US08663009B1
Gaming devices, gaming systems, and gaming display assemblies are presented herein. A gaming machine for playing a wagering game is disclosed. The gaming machine includes a support structure and an input device configured to receive an input indicative of a wager to play the wagering game. A primary display device is mounted to the support structure and configured to display randomly determined outcomes of the wagering game. A display interface device, which overlies at least a portion of the primary display device, includes a player-rotatable display interface rotatably mounted to the support structure and configured to be manually rotated by a player. The display interface device is operatively connected to the primary display device such that motion manually imparted to the player-rotatable display interface by a player affects one or more aspects of the wagering game displayed on the primary display device.
US08663007B2
A game playing device having a housing with a card holding member, the card holding member being configured to receive a plurality of cards; a plurality of switches located on a surface of the housing each of the plurality of switches being capable of being illuminated; and a controller for selectively illuminating each of the plurality of switches, the illumination of at least one of the plurality of switches indicating a turn for playing the game playing device.
US08663005B2
An editing tool generates a progressive game skin and code for instantiating the progressive game skin. The progressive skin indicates various perceivable elements (e.g., visual elements, aural elements, etc.) and skin configurations (e.g., layout for perceivable elements, timing for presenting perceivable elements, properties of perceivable elements, etc.). The progressive skin may also indicate target presentation devices for presenting the perceivable elements indicated by the progressive skin. The progressive skin editing tool provides the progressive skin to a device that controls one or more devices that will present the perceivable element indicated by the progressive skin. The controlling device (“media controller”) reads the progressive skin and causes the one or more devices to present the indicated perceivable elements as indicated by the progressive skin (“instantiates the progressive skin”).
US08662999B2
A method of gaming comprising: determining at least one game outcome; determining a total award from the at least one game outcome; modifying the total award based on a size of the total award to obtain a modified total award; and awarding the modified total award.
US08662991B2
There is provided a computerized reel-based gaming system configured to return at least part of a player's credits back to the player when at least one pre-defined combination of symbols has not been winning after a certain number N of spins of the reels. The method of operating the gaming system comprises: a) responsive to a spin of the reels, automated obtaining a result of matching between the spin output corresponding to a cash-back combination and a winning cash-back combination, thus, in case of a mismatch, giving rise to a non-winning event; b) automated assessing a number of consecutive non-winning events with respect to the cash-back combination; and c) automated initiating a cash-back award once the number of consecutive non-winning events reaches a cash-back triggering number corresponding to the cash-back combination.
US08662990B2
A primary game may display multiple bonus game selection symbols on a reel. The bonus game selection symbols allow the player to choose a bonus game. The bonus game simulates a play in an actual wagering game with a wager that would normally be higher than the wager in the primary game.
US08662974B2
A sports videogame such as a baseball videogame allows a user to control the release time of a pitch in order to control the timing of a break on the pitched ball. Other implementations of a baseball videogame allow a user to put extra spin on a pitched ball to thereby create a greater break on the pitch or allow the user to play in a hero mode which enables the user to control a videogame character in a series of specific game play scenarios designed to allow the user to immediately control the videogame character to perform unique skills. Game play may also be customized by allowing the user to incorporate user-created images into screens of game play and/or allow the user to incorporate recorded audio messages into game play.
US08662973B1
A data collection and analysis system tracks motion of ball for analysis of a competitor's performance in a sport, such as golf or baseball. The data collection and analysis system comprises a ball equipped with a positioning receiver and a transmitter to acquire and transmit position data, and a handheld unit to receive and process the position data.
US08662968B2
A thermal conditioning system for the energy storage system of a hybrid vehicle. At least one auxiliary air source, other than a permanently open air source, has a selectively operable actuator door which either connects or disconnects the auxiliary air source to the energy storage system blower, the air flow being selected to optimally temperature condition the energy storage system. The auxiliary air source preferably includes the HVAC ducting.
US08662967B1
Meat processing, especially but not exclusively for bone-in-meat product (for example, chicken), uses a combination of equipment or process parameters to obtain high quality ground or boneless meat. Particular equipment implementations include a piston pump in combination with an extrusion screen, and particular process parameters include speed, temperature, pressure and screen configuration.
US08662962B2
A sheet of sandpaper includes a backing layer having opposed first and second major surfaces, an adhesive make coat on the first major surface, abrasive particles at least partially embedded in the make coat, thereby defining an abrasive surface, and a non-slip coating layer on the second major surface. Methods of making and using such sandpaper are also provided.
US08662946B2
Apparatus and methods for body surfing which provide the body surfer a means to stabilize his ride and control his direction/position on a wave are described herein. According to one aspect, a body surfing apparatus includes a body suit having a torso and legs; a plurality of fins located on the torso; and one or more fins located laterally on the legs. The fins are preferably attached to the body suit via an adhesive or mechanical means and the fins and suit are preferably covered with a buoyant layer, the buoyant layer having a minimum thickness of 1 mm.
US08662937B2
The present invention provides an audio jack and electronic apparatus containing the same. The audio jack includes a hollow insulated housing, wherein the insulated housing includes: a fixed portion and a rotating portion rotating relative to the fixed portion and on which at least two elastic terminals are arranged; and the at least two elastic terminals of the rotating portion being in contact with different pins of a printed circuit board of the audio jack respectively when the rotating portion is in a first position and rotates relative to the fixed portion to a second position. The audio jack and electronic apparatus containing the same of the present invention are applicable to the insertion of plugs of different specifications, increasing the range of application of the electronic apparatus on the premise of reducing the cost of the electronic apparatus.
US08662926B2
Connector including a connector body and a shield. The shield includes a shield side wall. The connector body includes at least one side wall provided with an abutment structure extending from this side wall, so as to allow a precise positioning of the shield side wall.
US08662904B2
An electrical power connector includes an electrically insulative housing defining multiple front mating portions, multiple rear partition plates, an accommodation chamber between each two adjacent partition plates corresponding to one respective mating portion, a mating chamber in each mating portion, stepped stop portions in top and bottom sides in each mating chamber and springy hooks suspending in top and bottom sides in each accommodation chamber, and pairs of conducting terminals mounted in the accommodation chambers and having respective front mating end portions suspending in the mating chambers with respective openings and stop rods thereof respectively forced into engagement with the springy hooks and stepped stop portions of the electrically insulative housing.
US08662892B2
A Universal Hands-On Trainer (UHOT) for use with an interactive training simulator and software plug-in that provides the “fit” and “function” of a piece of equipment provided with tactical handgrips but not the “form”. The UHOT has an assembled shape and structure that is both scaled-down and different from that of the real piece of equipment. Because the UHOT does not replicate the “form” of any piece of equipment, the UHOT is not limited to training only one piece of equipment. Different tactical handgrips may be attached to the UHOT to provide training with the correct “fit” for a wide variety of equipment. The UHOT may be provided with a universal interface and various adapters to attach different tactical handgrips.
US08662890B2
A method for manufacturing a dental restoration for at least one section of a dental arch on the basis of digital overall data which are calculated in relation to individual data, which are based on three-dimensional optical individual measurements that are performed intra-orally of an area that contains at least one section of the dental arch. In order to ensure that the overall data, which have been received from individual measurements, represent the measured section of the dental arch and/or the dental arch in its entirety without any distortions, it is proposed that at least one area of the dental arch be measured together with a reference, which supplies three-dimensional information, and calculated from the individual data while considering the reference of the overall data.
US08662886B2
The present invention relates generally to semiconductor wafer fabrication and more particularly but not exclusively to advanced process control methodologies for controlling oxide formation using pressure. The present invention, in one or more implementations, includes a pressure stabilization system to dynamically adjust scavenger pressure in a furnace during wafer fabrication in relation to a pressure formation range, value, or one or more pressure indicators in a wafer fabrication process.
US08662883B2
Apparatus is described for combusting exhaust gases output from a plurality of process chambers. The apparatus comprises a plurality of exhaust gas combustion nozzles (22) connected to a combustion chamber (24). Each nozzle receives a respective exhaust gas (26), and comprises means for receiving a fuel (40) and an oxidant (30) for use in forming a combustion flame within the chamber. A controller receives data indicative of the chemistry of the exhaust gas supplied to each nozzle, and adjusts the relative amounts of fuel and oxidant supplied to each nozzle in response to the received data. This can enable the nature of each combustion flame to be selectively modified according to the nature of the exhaust gases to be destroyed by that flame, thereby enhancing the destruction rate efficiency of the exhaust gas and optimising fuel consumption.
US08662875B2
Disclosed herein are an injection foam molding apparatus for manufacturing one-piece shoes or soles and one-piece shoes manufactured using the same. A thermoplastic resin is injected into top and bottom molds in a state in which the top and bottom molds are coupled with a middle mold and is then pressed to form the upper and lower parts of a shoe, the middle mold is separated therefrom, and then the top mold and bottom mold, including the upper part and lower part of the shoe, respectively, are pressed, thereby forming the upper part and lower part of the shoe into one body. The injection foam molding apparatus is advantageous in that, since functional one-piece shoes or soles, having various colors, hardnesses and specific gravities, and having excellent feeling and durability, can be manufactured using different materials by one apparatus, working time is decreased, and productivity can be increased.
US08662871B2
A tire vulcanizing device including: an upper annular mold attaching member and a lower annular mold attaching member that respectively attach side portion forming molds for forming side portions of a tire; a plurality of segments that respectively attach a plurality of segmented tread molds for forming a tread portion of the tire; and a mold closing mechanism for radially moving the segments to close the tread molds at an advanced end. The respective segments are respectively independently provided with heat medium passages for applying heat for vulcanization to the tread molds when supplied with a heat medium.
US08662867B2
A bore-hole pump formed of stainless steel comprises a head part and a foot part, between which one or more pump stages are incorporated. The foot part serves to connect the pump to a drive motor. The pump includes inlet openings for fluid to be delivered. The foot part consists of at least two components which are separated in one or more essentially radial planes and are formed with different manufacturing methods.
US08662857B2
A fluid sprayer is provided and includes a fluid pump assembly having an outlet path and a motor assembly configured to drive the fluid pump assembly to pressurize fluid. The motor assembly is controlled by a throttle mechanism. The fluid sprayer also includes a fluid pressure control assembly including a mechanical pressure transducer configured to be displaced as a function of fluid pressure in the outlet path. The fluid pressure control assembly is configured to control the throttle mechanism as a function of displacement of the mechanical pressure transducer.
US08662850B2
A wind turbine is described. The turbine includes a hub with one or more blades. The hub is rotatably mounted on a frame and operatively coupled to a shaft through a coupling plate mounted on the shaft. The shaft is provided at least partially internally to the frame, and the shaft is a substantially tubular hollow shaft.
US08662848B2
The invention is a magnetically driven pump with a floating impeller and driven magnet, and the invention includes an impeller surface having geometric figures acting as the pumping bodies.
US08662844B2
An airfoil part includes a plurality of cooling chambers that are spaces into which the inside of the airfoil part is partitioned, from a leading edge side to a trailing edge side, by a partition wall, that extend in a vane-longitudinal-section direction, and that include division parts on inner walls of a body; insert cylinders that are disposed in the cooling chambers and that have a plurality of impingement holes; and film holes that are provided in the body. The insert cylinders include partitioning parts that extend from the leading edge side to the trailing edge side and that extend in the vane-longitudinal-section direction. The insides of the insert cylinders are partitioned into pressure-surface-side insert spaces close to a pressure surface and suction-surface-side insert spaces close to a suction surface.
US08662842B2
A method and system for detecting asymmetric utilizing longitudinal tower acceleration data may include: providing a rotorspeed acceleration monitoring system; determining from the rotorspeed acceleration monitoring system whether a rotorspeed acceleration is above a rotorspeed acceleration limit; determining whether a rotor-mass imbalance condition exists; and determining whether a longitudinal tower acceleration coincides with icing on a rotor.
US08662827B2
The invention at hand relates to a housing for a compressor of a gas turbine, in particular of an aircraft gas turbine, with an external housing with at least one air supply opening and an interior housing formed by at least two housing segments, with the housing segments having at least one injection nozzle to inject air suctioned in via the air supply openings into a flow channel in the area of blade tips of blades of a rotor of the compressor. In this case, the housing segment has at least one air flow channel, with the air flow channel being designed in such a way that a direct air supply to the at least one injection nozzle occurs via at least one air supply element arranged in the air supply opening of the exterior housing. The invention relates moreover to a compressor of a gas turbine as well as to a method for the manufacture of a housing segment of a compressor housing.
US08662825B2
An aerofoil blade or vane suitable for the turbine of a gas turbine engine includes an extending aerofoil portion having facing wall parts interconnected by a divider member to partially define first and second cooling fluid passage portions. The first and second passage portions are interconnected in a series fluid flow relationship by a bend passage portion. The first passage portion directs cooling fluid to the bend portion and the second passage portion exhausts cooling fluid from the bend portion. The divider member provides a localised contraction of the downstream end of the first passage portion to accelerate the cooling fluid flow before it enters the bend passage portion. The divider member provides a localised progressive series narrowing and opening of the upstream end of the second passage portion in the general direction of cooling fluid flow.
US08662819B2
A method for preventing cracking of a turbine engine case includes the steps of disposing at least two rails upon an exterior surface of a turbine engine case; and securing a first rail to a first means for attaching at least one fan exit guide vane to the turbine engine case and securing a second rail to a second means for attaching the at least one fan exit guide vane to the turbine engine case.
US08662814B1
A transmission lift arm to facilitate the safe lifting and/or lowering of a transmission from or into a transmission jack. The transmission lift arm is provided in pairs and each is adapted for attachment to a transmission bell housing utilizing threaded rods secured thereto. The lift arms may be adjustably spaced apart on the lift arm of a lift truck to accommodate various spacings is the bell housing holes into which the threaded rods are placed and secured. The transmission arms may also be provided in a variety of sizes to mount to different lift bar sizes and/or to have different size threaded rods to accommodate a wide range of motor vehicle transmissions. In alternate embodiments, transmission lift arms having an adjustable opening may be used to accommodate different lift bar dimensions.
US08662813B2
An apparatus (10) for loading a transport container with a load of bulk material has a load bin (20) positioned for axial movement atop a base assembly (40). A packer blade (90) is positioned inside the load bin for movement relative to the load bin in the same axial direction. The load bin has an open first end (22) and a second end (24), with a pair of vertical side walls (66) and a substantially open top surface. Drivers (60, 92) are provided for the axial movements. Material is loaded into the load bin, the openable end of the transport container is placed around the first end of the load bin, and the load bin is extended into the transport container until the packer blade is inside the transport container. By retracting the load bin while retaining the packer blade inside the container, the load is transferred.
US08662809B2
The invention relates to a particle board screw having a conical screw tip with a thread. The thread extends from the screw shaft to the front end of the screw tip. In order to make it easier to screw in, and in order to reduce the splitting effect in wood, a shoulder or rib is disposed in the front region of the screw, which is to say on the end or inside of the tapering part, preferably extending around the entire circumference with no pitch. The rib has a front flank running almost transversely to the longitudinal axis of the screw and a more strongly inclined rear flank. The screw has a reduced screw-in torque.
US08662799B2
A tapping machine (1) executes a tapping operation by operating a spindle motor (21) and a feed axis motor (31) in synchronization, and includes a spindle reversal detector unit (34) for detecting the reversed operation of the spindle during the tapping operation, and a reverse correction amount production unit (35) for producing a reverse correction amount for improving follow-up performance of reversed operation of the feed axis at the time when the reversed operation of the spindle is detected by the spindle reversal detector unit (34). When the reversed operation is detected by the spindle reversal detector unit, the reverse correction amount produced by the reverse correction amount production unit (35) is added to the speed instruction on a speed control loop of the feed axis control unit (30) or to an integrator (41) of the speed control loop.
US08662785B2
A shaft-gear connection comprises a shaft and a shrunk-on gear that has an axial first section, attached by a first shrink-fit bond, and an axial second section, attached by a second shrink-fit bond. The second shrink-fit bond is greater than the first shrink-fit bond so that a greater maximum torque to be transmitted from the gear to the shaft by the second shrink-fit bond than by the first shrink-fit bond. An axial intermediate section, attached by a third shrink-fit bond, is located between the axial first section and the axial second section. Both a surface pressure and a maximum torque that can be transmitted by the third shrink-fit bond are greater than the surface pressure and the maximum torque that can be transmitted by the first shrink-fit bond, but are less than the surface pressure and the maximum torque that can be transmitted by the second shrink-fit bond.
US08662776B2
A multi-unit cosmetic applicator comprising: a housing body, a first cosmetic unit housed in the housing body, a second cosmetic unit housed in the housing body, an opening in the housing, wherein each cosmetic unit has a means for being independently movable relative to each other from a stored position to an advanced position and back to its stored position. The means may include a ratchet assembly, a squeeze assembly, or a dual twist assembly.
US08662771B2
A cutter mechanism has a main unit supporting a movable blade and a motor for driving the movable blade. A detachable unit is attachable and detachable from the main unit and supports a fixed blade for cutting a sheet while sandwiching the sheet together with the movable blade. A holder holds the fixed blade with respect to the movable blade in an inclined state so that a cutting edge of the fixed blade forms a predetermined cutting angle with respect to a cutting edge of the movable blade. A holder support member supports the fixed blade movably in a direction in which the movable blade cutting edge moves close to and away from the fixed blade cutting edge. A biasing member biases the holder in a direction so that the fixed blade cutting edge is brought into press-contact with the movable blade cutting edge.
US08662765B2
Providing for a wafer level optical system employing composite lenses is disclosed herein. Conventional focus lens assemblies require three or more lenses. By way of example, two composite lenses can be used to reduce the cost of a wafer-level camera. In some aspects, the composite lenses can be aspheric and can employ a broader variety of wafer materials than earlier designs that only operated in narrow ranges of refractive indices and Abbe numbers.
US08662763B2
An L-shaped holder for optical devices, in particular cameras, comprising a first exchangeable plate that can be fastened to the housing of the optical device by means of a screw, a second exchangeable plate and a connector having two webs separated by an angled section for connecting the two exchangeable plates, each exchangeable plate being arranged on one of the webs of the connector, which is characterised in that the exchangeable plates are connected to the connector such that the exchangeable plates can be moved on the connector.
US08662757B2
A self adjusting bearing for use on a CT gantry is provided. The self adjusting bearing is configured to be mounted on a main frame of the CT gantry and is configured to support a rotating base of the CT gantry wherein the self adjusting bearing includes a roller, a first component, and a second component, the roller is configured to support the rotating base and is rotatably mounted on the first component, the second component is configured to be mounted on the main frame, and the first component and the second component are configured to rotatably engage each other such that they can rotate relative to each other during the mounting of the self adjusting bearing.
US08662755B2
Provided is a roller bearing device, which is suitable for preventing misdetection of a rotation sensor when a moment load is applied. A thin motor 100 includes a cross roller bearing 14 having an inner ring 14a and an outer ring 14b, a stator 22 supported by the inner ring 14a, a rotor 12 supported by the outer ring 14b, a motor unit 16 that applies rotation torque to the rotor 12, and a resolver 30 that detects a rotation angle position of the rotor 12. The resolver 30, the cross roller bearing 14, and the motor unit 16 are arranged in the recited order from the radially inner side on a radially identical plane.
US08662751B2
The invention relates to a method and a device for gas filling and sealing of a duct intended to be filled with gas and positioned in a container of a collapsible type. The duct is defined by two opposite side walls which are joined along a connecting portion and comprises an inlet arranged in one of the side walls. A part of the container that comprises the inlet is clamped between an abutment and a gas module which is axially movable towards the abutment. Clamping occurs in such a manner that one off the two side walls included in the duct is allowed, in response to a gas flow supplied from the gas module and entering the duct through said inlet, to bulge to form a free passage into the duct for filling the same with gas. After completion of the gas filling, the duct is sealed. The invention also relates to a container blank having a duct which is specially developed for the method and the device.
US08662749B2
An x-ray imaging apparatus comprises a platform connected to a frame, a sliding bar, a detector mounted on the sliding bar, an x-ray source, and a control system. The x-ray source includes a collimator to generate an x-ray exposure window. The control system is configured to slide the detector along the sliding bar and synchronously move the collimator to direct the x-ray exposure window to the first detector. The x-ray exposure window movements are registered to the detector movements. The detector interfaces with a processor that processes x-ray image data received from the detector, and generates at least one x-ray image from the x-ray image data.
US08662747B2
A temperature sensing apparatus disposed inside a chip includes first and second current generation circuits, first and second current-to-frequency converters, and a counting unit. The first current generation circuit is configured to generate a first current varying proportional to the temperature of the temperature sensing apparatus. The second current generation circuit is configured to generate a second current independent of temperature. The first current-to-frequency converter is configured to generate a first frequency signal with a first frequency indicative of the first current, and the second current-to-frequency converter is configured to generate a second frequency signal with a second frequency indicative of the second current. The counting unit is configured to generate a digital signal indicative of the temperature according to the difference between the first and second frequencies.
US08662740B2
An agitation apparatus (100) has a rotation shaft (150) provided along the central axis of a cylindrically shaped agitation vessel (102). To the rotation shaft (150), a substantially cylindrically shaped agitation member (104) is attached. The agitation member (104) has an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the agitation vessel (102), and rotates concentrically with the inner circumferential surface of the agitation vessel (102). The agitation member (104) has a plurality of through holes (162, 164) formed in radial directions therethrough. The through holes (164) formed in an upper portion of the agitation member (104) are larger than the through holes (162) formed in a lower portion of the agitation member (104).
US08662737B2
The present invention relates to a device for producing a hardenable mass, preferably bone substitute and/or bone reinforcing material or bone cement or similar material. A mixing container may include a mixing space in which at least one powder and at least one liquid component are mixed to provide the hardenable mass. A piston may be provided in the mixing space of the mixing container. A screw device may be connectable to the mixing container such that the screw device may be configured to impart by screw movements a discharge movement to the piston to discharge the hardenable mass from the mixing space.
US08662734B2
A flexible multi-line conductor and multiple luminaire connectors may be provided. Each one of the luminaire connectors may be coupled to a corresponding luminaire and the flexible multi-line conductor. Each of the luminaire connectors may be moveable relative to each other. The flexible multi-line conductor may bend in response to movement of any of the luminaire connectors relative to each other. The flexible multi-line conductor may include multiple conductors. Each one of the luminaire connectors may couple a corresponding one of the luminaires to a different set of the conductors than the other luminaire connectors couple to the other luminaires.
US08662726B2
A headlamp for a vehicle includes a light source adapted to emit a spotlight, a lens adapted to receive and transmit the spotlight, a lens actuator adapted to adjust a size of the spotlight transmitted through the lens, a two-dimensional optical deflector adapted to deflect the spotlight from the lens to an illumination area ahead of the vehicle, and a control circuit configured to control the lens actuator in such a way that irregularity of illumination in the illumination area is avoided.
US08662712B2
An LED lamp may include at least one support equipped with at least one LED, a lamp base, at least one circuit component, interposed between the lamp base and the at least one LED, for operating the at least one LED, and a lamp body made of optically transmissive material with a recess for holding at least that part of the support which carries the at least one LED, the lamp body having surface structuring for cooling by thermal convection, wherein the surface structuring comprises a multiplicity of elevations, and wherein the elevations are respectively designed in the form of islands.
US08662711B2
A lighting device is provided. The lighting device includes an optical reflection plate, a light holder, and at least one light source. The optical reflection plate includes a non-reflective region located in the center of the optical reflection plate, and a plurality of reflection regions surrounding the non-reflective region in sequence. The light holder is located on the non-reflective region of the optical reflection plate and includes a circle side-light concave portion. A light-emitting opening of the side-light concave portion faces to the reflection regions. The light source is located in the side-light concave portion of the light holder. When the light source emits light, the light emitted from the light source is reflected by the reflection regions.
US08662695B2
An adapter structure which cooperates between a modular electrical distribution unit and a light fixture to facilitate electrical connection therebetween. The adapter structure includes an adapter module having an insulative housing containing electrical conductors extending therethrough and defining connectors at input and output ends thereof. The housing mounts directly to the light fixture, preferably within and extending through a knock-out port in a wall of the light fixture, and a plug-type connector at the output end of the adapter structure can be plug engaged with a compatible connector associated with a electrical power distribution unit. The output end of the adapter has a gripping conductive socket structure which enables pigtail conductors associated with the light fixture to be directly plugged therein.
US08662693B2
A backlight module includes a back cover, an optical film assembly, a reflective sheet, a frame and a fixing member. The optical film assembly is disposed on the back cover. The optical film assembly has a first protruding portion and a first hole is formed on the first protruding portion. The reflective sheet is disposed between the back cover and the optical film assembly. The reflective sheet has a second protruding portion disposed in the first hole of the first protruding portion. The frame is disposed beside the back cover. A first end of the fixing member is fixed on the second protruding portion of the reflective sheet. A second end of the fixing member is fixed on the frame.
US08662692B2
In a touch panel, a cover lens, a sensor unit, and a panel cell are assembled first via glue to form a panel component, where a concave portion is also formed at the side of the panel component. An assembling frame is used to extend into the concave portion and covering around the side and bottom of a backlight module so as to assemble the panel component with the backlight module. Wrapping tape and further fixtures that were used to combine the backlight module and the cell may be removed to reduce the overall cost of the touch panel, while the yield rate of the adhering process may be effectively promoted since the adhering process is done simply on glass components.
US08662690B2
An illumination system includes LED arrays (1, 2, 3) which are packaged on a heat dissipation plate and consist of several LED chips, an optical combining device (4) which can combine the light emitted by respective LED chips to one beam, a focusing lens (5) which can focus the light emitted by the optical combination device to a light-emitting window (11), a transmission type wavelength converter (7) and a control processing device. When white light is provided, the control processing device controls the LED chips with predetermined wavelengths to emit light and the transmission type wavelength converter is positioned into the light path to generate excited light.
US08662688B2
A key, primarily a remote control key for automobiles, with a housing that has an upper shell and a lower shell and a key held between the upper shell and the lower shell. To make the key housing more esthetically pleasing and easier to manufacture, the lower shell consists of a transparent plastic joined by laser welding to a colored core of the upper shell.
US08662681B2
The image projection apparatus projects an image onto a projection surface through a projection optical system including a focus element (104) movable in an optical axis direction. The apparatus includes a shift mechanism that moves the projection optical system in a shift direction including a directional component orthogonal to the optical axis direction so as to move a position of the projected image on the projection surface, a shift position detector that detects a shift position of the projection optical system moved by the shift mechanism, a temperature detector that detects a temperature, and a controller that moves the focus element. The controller moves the focus element depending on the temperature detected by the temperature detector and on the shift position detected by the shift position detector.
US08662680B2
A projector includes: a light emitting device; a light modulation device adapted to modulate a light beam emitted from the light emitting device; and a projection device adapted to project the image formed by the light modulation device, wherein the light emitting device includes a light emitting element formed of a super luminescent diode, and adapted to emit light, and a base supporting the light emitting element with first and second reflecting surfaces to reflect the light emitted from the light emitting element. The light emitting element emits the light from first and second end surfaces. Directions of first and second outgoing light respectively emitted from the first and second end surfaces are opposite to each other. Directions of the first and second reflected light respectively reflected by the first and second reflecting surfaces are the same as each other.
US08662679B2
An object-side lens group has different power factors between the vertical and horizontal directions of a liquid crystal panel, and a projection system as a whole therefore has different focal lengths between the vertical and horizontal directions and hence different magnification factors between the vertical and horizontal directions, whereby the aspect ratio of an image on the liquid crystal panel can be set at a value different from the aspect ratio of an image projected on a screen. That is, the projection system can convert the aspect ratio, which is the ratio of the width to the height of an image. When the distance between a diaphragm and an extreme end surface of the object-side lens group on the screen side satisfies a predetermined condition, at least a certain degree of telecentricity can be provided both in the vertical and horizontal directions.
US08662672B2
The invention relates to a lighting device (1), an array of such lighting devices and an optical projection device comprising such lighting device. The lighting device, comprises at least one laser source (4) for generating laser radiation, wherein the laser source is optically coupled to an optical element (7, 8, 9) comprising at least one luminescent material, suitable for emitting luminescent radiation upon laser excitation by the laser radiation, wherein the optical element is provided with at least one reflector for directing the radiation from the luminescent dot through an emission window of the optical element. The lighting device is particularly useful in a projector and other lighting applications.
US08662664B2
Optical device (1) for modifying the optics of the eye in its peripheral retina as prophylaxis of the progression of myopia, that it consists in a lens in which its inferior nasal quadrant (2) modifies the strength in a progressive and controlled manner from the center to the outer zone of the lens. The rest of the quadrants (3) of device (1) have a configuration of a graduated crystal or flat crystal, depending, respectively, on whether the user has some visual defect that requires optical correction or lacks said defect. The lens can be either an optical lens, a contact lens or electro-optical systems.
US08662649B2
A method for recycling ink in an inkjet printer includes combining purged inks having two or more colors with black ink to form a mixed ink. The printer identifies an optical characteristic of the mixed ink and compares it to the optical characteristic for black ink. A controller for the printer adjusts the operation of the printer to form ink images having an optical characteristic that is closer to black ink than ink images formed with the mixed ink alone.
US08662644B2
A piezoelectric element comprising a piezoelectric layer containing bismuth, lanthanum iron manganese and titanium and a electrode formed above the piezoelectric layer.
US08662637B2
A fluid ejecting apparatus includes first and second rows of nozzles ejecting first and second fluids respectively. A control section repeats an image formation operation ejecting fluid from the first and second nozzles while moving them perpendicularly to the row direction and controls transportation of the medium in the row direction. After formation of a first image layer by the first and second fluids, a second image layer is formed thereon by the second fluid. For normal image formation, the first and second nozzles forming the first image layer are further upstream in the row direction than the second nozzles forming the second image layer, and for image formation of an upper end of the medium, the first and second nozzles forming the first image layer are further downstream in the row direction than the first and second nozzles forming the first image layer in normal image formation.
US08662629B2
A liquid ejection apparatus including: a first casing; a second casing; and a controller, wherein the first casing is movable between a close position close to the second casing and a distant position farther from the second casing than the close position, the first casing accommodating a head having an ejection face. The second casing accommodates: a support portion having a support face for supporting a recording medium while facing the ejection face; and a moving device configured to move the support portion, such that the support face selectively takes a first state to face the ejection face and a second state not to face the ejection face. A restraining portion restrains movement of the first casing located at the close position, and the controller controls the moving device, such that the support face takes the second state when the controller has received a restraint releasing signal.
US08662622B2
A system and method print an output sample including print cartridge characteristic information.
US08662614B2
A liquid ejection apparatus including a first-recording executing section configured to execute a two-way processing based on first data included in recording data corresponding to a predetermined maximum number of lines recordable during a single movement of a carriage, the first data being data based on which liquid ejection is performed on a downstream side of a unit area in which a ratio of the number of dots each required for multi-color ejection to the number of all dots is not less than a first value. The first-recording executing section executes a one-way processing based on data corresponding to the unit area in which the ratio is not less than the first value and data based on which liquid ejection is performed on an upstream side of the unit area, which two data are included in the recording data corresponding to the predetermined maximum number.
US08662613B2
An inkjet recording system including a separation unit configured to obtain separated data which corresponds to each of a plurality of nozzle arrays from input image data, a gradation correction unit configured to perform gradation correction by one-dimensional conversion on the separated data obtained by the separation unit, and a quantization unit configured to quantize the data on which the gradation correction is performed by the gradation correction unit to generate the recording data, wherein the separation unit obtains the separated data so that first separated data and second separated data corresponding to at least a pair of nozzle arrays for adjusting an effect of an air current have a same value, and the gradation correction unit performs different gradation correction on the first separated data and the second separated data which have the same value.
US08662606B2
A cabinet, a drawer assembly and an associated method are provided for controllably limiting the slideable extension of a drawer relative to a cabinet body. The cabinet is configured to store a plurality of medications and includes a cabinet body and a drawer assembly that, in turn, includes a drawer slideably disposed within the cabinet body and an extension control rod. The drawer may include a plurality of pockets for storing respective medications. The drawer may also include an outwardly extending engagement member. The extension control rod may include a plurality of outwardly extending projections that are arranged helically about the rod. As such, engagement of a projection of the extension control rod with the engagement member of the drawer limits further slideable extension of the drawer relative to the cabinet body.
US08662602B2
A brake control apparatus for a vehicle includes: a master cylinder for raising a wheel cylinder pressure according to operation of a brake pedal; a booster for raising the wheel cylinder pressure by operating the master cylinder independently of operation of the brake pedal; a pressure regulator provided with a hydraulic pump for raising the wheel cylinder pressure independently of operation of the master cylinder; and a control section including: a first controller for controlling the booster; and a second controller for controlling the pressure regulator. The control section detects that at least one of the booster and the first controller is in a state of malfunction; selects one of backup modes according to the state of malfunction, wherein the backup modes restrict operation of at least one of the booster and the pressure regulator in different manners; and controls the wheel cylinder pressure in the selected backup mode.
US08662593B2
A fixing device is provided for a headrest that fixes the headrest at a predetermined position in an unadjustable manner, even after a guide lock is attached or even after a seatback is formed. At least one groove portion is formed by cutting out in a headrest pillar, without inclination in the radial direction. The fixing device has a knob portion, a resin spring portion formed continuously to the knob portion, and an engagement plate arranged in the knob portion, the resin spring portion is formed to extend on one side of the knob portion therefrom, and is provided with a space portion for expanding to surround the headrest pillar. The engagement plate is installed in the knob portion, and is formed in such a manner that part of the engagement plate is exposed in the space portion.
US08662583B2
In at least one embodiment a trim cover assembly has an attachment feature for securing the trim cover to the foam cushion of a vehicle seat. The attachment feature is formed of a strip of touch-fastener material having a first side and a second side disposed adjacent a pair of trim panels. Stitching joins the first side, the second side and the trim panels to each other to form a seam in the trim cover between the pair of trim panels in order to form the attachment feature with the touch-fastener material.
US08662579B2
A vehicle seat has a cushion pad, a breathable outer cover and an air permeable material layer. The cushion pad includes an air passage extending from an air introducing port disposed at the non-passenger facing surface to a branch passage formed along the passenger facing surface. The branch passage has at least one bypass air passage that extends in a vehicle-widthwise direction of the cushion pad. The breathable outer cover is disposed over the passenger facing surface of the cushion pad. The air permeable material layer is disposed between the cushion pad and the breathable outer cover. The air permeable material layer includes a plurality of vent outlets passing through in a thickness direction of the air permeable material layer. The vent outlets are arranged in at least one column that extends in a direction perpendicular to the vehicle-widthwise direction.
US08662578B2
A seat assembly includes a seat back operatively coupled to a seat cushion and a head restraint operatively coupled to the seat back. A bell-crank is pivotally coupled to the seat back and operatively coupled to the seat cushion and a head restraint latch mechanism. Initial pivotal movement of the seat back from a seating position toward a folded position pivots the bell-crank from a first position actuating the latch mechanism to disengage with the head restraint. Continued pivotal movement of the seat back to the folded position pivots the bell-crank to a second position operably disconnecting the bell-crank and seat cushion. Pivotal movement of the seat back from the folded position to the seating position pivots the bell-crank from the second position to the first position actuating the latch mechanism to a position for engagement with the head restraint upon return of the head restraint to a use position.
US08662572B2
A vehicle-body front structure includes a rectangular bulkhead that supports a radiator that is provided in a front part of a vehicle body. The bulkhead includes a pair of bulkhead side members arranged at both sides of the bulkhead and extending in a vehicle up-down direction, and a bulkhead lower member arranged at lower ends of the bulkhead side members and extending in a vehicle width direction. The bulkhead lower member has a smaller length than a distance between the pair of bulkhead side members. The bulkhead lower member includes a pair of extensions being respectively hung between the bulkhead lower member and the bulkhead side members in the vehicle width direction. The bulkhead lower member is joined to inner sides of the pair of extensions such that the extensions are hung in a vehicle front-rear direction.
US08662568B2
The invention relates to a vehicle body structure in the region of the A-pillar and the windshield cross member, including an A-pillar on both sides of the body, wherein in the pillar construction of the A-pillar, the A-pillar has an A-pillar inner steel plate oriented approximately vertically and in the vehicle longitudinal direction. An approximately horizontal windshield cross member is connected at the ends thereof to the associated A-pillar inner steel plate by means of a welded connection. According to the invention, the windshield cross member is produced as a composite component made of an elongated aluminum beam having steel plate adapter parts that extend the aluminum beam at the ends thereof but are short in comparison to the overall beam length, and the steel plate adapter parts are connected to the associated A-pillar inner steel plate by means of the welded connection and to the aluminum beam by means of a riveted connection.
US08662566B1
A vehicle body front structure includes a front end frame assembly, a bumper beam, left and right inner extension members, and left and right outer extension members. The front end frame assembly is disposed adjacent a forward end of the vehicle. The bumper beam is disposed forward of the front end frame assembly. The left and right inner extension members connect the bumper beam with the front end frame assembly. The left and right outer extension members are disposed on respective external sides of the left and right inner extension members and connect the bumper beam with the front end frame assembly. Each outer extension member includes a forward end section for connecting with the bumper beam, a rear end section having connection locations for connecting with the front end frame assembly and a curved section disposed between the forward end section and the rear end section.
US08662562B2
A door overload protection device for a vehicle door, especially for an armored vehicle door is disclosed. The door overload protection includes a door leaf, a door frame and at least one hinge, the device being made such that it can act against a compressive force which has arisen from the weight of the door leaf and which is applied in a vertical and/or a horizontal direction in its moving, opening and closing state. A method for producing a door overload protection device is also provided.
US08662548B1
A multifunction lawn and garden device includes a generally flat base member having a plurality of upward radiating walls extending therefrom. A slanted edge is disposed along the front side of the base member, and an aperture is formed within the center of the base member. A generally T-shaped handle is positioned above the center of the base member and is secured to each of the back and side walls, and a removable insert member having a complementary shape as the aperture is provided.
US08662547B2
Tongs including a pair of elongated arms coupled together to move between a generally compressed configuration and a generally expanded configuration. The tongs further include a locking mechanism having a frame, a lock member and a spring to bias the lock member away from the frame. The lock member being movably coupled to the frame to move between a first position in which the lock member allows movement of the arms to the expanded configuration and a second position in which the lock member prevents movement of the arms beyond an intermediate configuration between the expanded and compressed configurations.
US08662536B2
This invention is designed to provide a device for sideways movement which will permit an element to move laterally, such as a set of portable x-ray equipment which is affixed to said device.
US08662522B1
A tow bar assembly for towing a vehicle which is immovable and stuck. The tow bar assembly includes an interconnector assembly including a first elongate member and an linkage assembly being hingedly attached to the first elongate member; a biased assembly for biasing the linkage assembly relative to the first elongate member; and a stop assembly being engagable to the linkage assembly upon the linkage assembly being in a biased position relative to the first elongate member.
US08662508B2
An improved scooter incorporates a novel or novelty illumination or lighting effect. Scooters have undergone an upsurge in popularity in recent years, e.g. because of innovation such as folding scooters and micro-scooters. There is provided a scooter or other self or foot propelled vehicle or the like having a platform for supporting a user, the platform having an upper surface having illumination. The platform comprises a foot-plate, and is at least part transparent or translucent. The platform comprises a first portion extruded from metal and a second portion, which is at least part transparent or translucent, and preferably made from a plastics material.
US08662506B2
The present invention is directed to a multi-function cart for storing and transporting emergency or other supplies. The multi-function cart comprises two shells that can be secured together to form a transportable storage container. When separated, each shell is convertible into various configurations that can be used to sustain life during and after a disaster as well as to clean-up and rebuild after a disaster has occurred. The multi-function cart can also be used recreationally. In this manner, the multi-function cart enables victims to quickly care for themselves, and encourages victims to immediately begin the clean-up and rebuilding process. Each shell is convertible into different configurations using various tubes. Hub brackets on opposing sides of the shell include adapters to which any of the tubes can be connected. The tubes can be connected to the adapters in an upward or a downward orientation to form different configurations.
