With A Step Of Measuring, Testing, Or Sensing Patents (Class 117/69)
  • Patent number: 11518934
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for methods of making quantum dots (QDs) (passivated or unpassivated) using a continuous flow process, systems for making QDs using a continuous flow process, and the like. In one or more embodiments, the QDs produced using embodiments of the present disclosure can be used in solar photovoltaic cells, bio-imaging, IR emitters, or LEDs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Assignee: KING ABDULLAH UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Osman M. Bakr, Jun Pan, Ala'a El-Ballouli, Kristian Rahbek Knudsen, Ahmed L. Abdelhady
  • Patent number: 8945303
    Abstract: The subject is providing a crystallizing device of a biopolymer, which made to form biopolymer crystal efficiently in crystallization solution of a small amount of biopolymers by applying a low voltage and not to make an electrode disturb but observable a state of crystal formation. As an electrode for applying an electric field to a biopolymer solution, a transparent conductor, which does not disturb crystal formation, is used. Between the transparent conductor electrodes 2s, the electric insulating member 4 is placed and the crystallization solution 1 for a small amount of biopolymers is maintained inter-electrode. A biopolymer is efficiently crystallized by applying a low voltage supplied from the voltage generator 5 to the transparent conductor electrode 2. A crystal formation state of a biopolymer is optically observable from the electrode side of a transparent conductor. Orientation control of the biopolymer can be performed by an electric field formed by the above-mentioned voltage application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Institute of National Colleges of Technology, Japan
    Inventors: Takashi Wakamatsu, Yuki Ohnishi
  • Publication number: 20150007765
    Abstract: A solution-stirring top-seeded solution-growth method for forming CLBO of the type where water is added to a precursor mixture, where heavy water is substituted for the water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2010
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Applicant: KLA-TENCOR CORPORATION
    Inventor: Vladimir L. Dribinski
  • Patent number: 8920559
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to crystallizing a chemical substance(s) using ultrasound. Methods are provided for screening a chemical substance according to its solid forms by using ultrasound to generate new or unusual solid forms. Methods are also provided for crystallizing a chemical substance by novel techniques that include sonication. The present disclosure also relates to cocrystallization using ultrasound. Methods are provided for preparing cocrystals of an active agent and a guest by sonicating and crystallizing. Methods are also provided for screening a sample according to solid state phases (such as cocrystals and salts) and include generating a cocrystal from the sample using ultrasound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Aptuit (West Lafayette), LLC
    Inventors: Scott L. Childs, Patricia M. Mougin-Andres, Barbara C. Stahly
  • Patent number: 8876972
    Abstract: A crystallization device is for protein crystallization with a small amount of a sample in the liquid to liquid diffusion method. It is easy to fill the device with protein solution and precipitant solution and easy to pick up grown crystals from the device. The device comprises a channel plate made of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and the first and second cover sheets made of polyethylene terephthalate. The channel plate includes at least one elongated channel having one side which extends in the longitudinal direction of the channel, the one side being exposed at the bottom surface of the channel plate. The channel has both ends which communicate with a protein solution inlet and a precipitant solution inlet respectively. The channel also communicates midway with a gel inlet and a vent hole. When picking up grown crystals from the device, the second cover sheet is cut off with a cutter knife so that the channel is exposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignees: Rigaku Corporation, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency
    Inventors: Tomokazu Hasegawa, Kensaku Hamada, Masaru Sato, Moritoshi Motohara
  • Patent number: 8871024
    Abstract: An improved high pressure apparatus and methods for processing supercritical fluids is described. The apparatus includes a capsule, a heater, and at least one ceramic ring contained by a metal sleeve. The apparatus is capable of accessing pressures and temperatures of 0.2-2 GPa and 400-1200° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Soraa, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark P. D'Evelyn
  • Patent number: 8834628
    Abstract: A method is described for the manufacture of semiconductor nanoparticles. Improved yields are obtained by use of a reducing agent or oxygen reaction promoter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Life Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Donald A. Zehnder, Joseph Treadway
  • Patent number: 8709153
    Abstract: The present invention relates to microfluidic devices and methods facilitating the growth and analysis of crystallized materials such as proteins. In accordance with one embodiment, a crystal growth architecture is separated by a permeable membrane from an adjacent well having a much larger volume. The well may be configured to contain a fluid having an identity and concentration similar to the solvent and crystallizing agent employed in crystal growth, with diffusion across the membrane stabilizing that process. Alternatively, the well may be configured to contain a fluid having an identity calculated to affect the crystallization process. In accordance with the still other embodiment, the well may be configured to contain a material such as a cryo-protectant, which is useful in protecting the crystalline material once formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignees: California Institute of Technology, The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Carl L. Hansen, Stephen R. Quake, James M. Berger
  • Patent number: 8709152
    Abstract: A static fluid and a second fluid are placed into contact along a microfluidic free interface and allowed to mix by diffusion without convective flow across the interface. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the fluids are static and initially positioned on either side of a closed valve structure in a microfluidic channel having a width that is tightly constrained in at least one dimension. The valve is then opened, and no-slip layers at the sides of the microfluidic channel suppress convective mixing between the two fluids along the resulting interface. Applications for microfluidic free interfaces in accordance with embodiments of the present invention include, but are not limited to, protein crystallization studies, protein solubility studies, determination of properties of fluidics systems, and a variety of biological assays such as diffusive immunoassays, substrate turnover assays, and competitive binding assays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignees: California Institute of Technology, The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Carl L. Hansen, Stephen R. Quake, James M. Berger
  • Patent number: 8691010
    Abstract: The use of microfluidic structures enables high throughput screening of protein crystallization. In one embodiment, an integrated combinatoric mixing chip allows for precise metering of reagents to rapidly create a large number of potential crystallization conditions, with possible crystal formations observed on chip. In an alternative embodiment, the microfluidic structures may be utilized to explore phase space conditions of a particular protein crystallizing agent combination, thereby identifying promising conditions and allowing for subsequent focused attempts to obtain crystal growth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Carl L. Hansen, Morten Sommer, Stephen R. Quake
  • Publication number: 20140011090
    Abstract: Provided are nickel manganese composite hydroxide particles having a small and uniform particle size and having a double structure which enables to obtain a cathode active material having a hollow structure, and a manufacturing method thereof. When obtaining the nickel manganese composite hydroxide by a reaction crystallization, using an aqueous solution for nucleation, which includes at least a metallic compound that contains nickel, a metallic compound that contains manganese and an ammonium ion donor and controlling the pH value that is measured at a standard solution temperature of 25° C. is 10.5 to 12.0, nucleation is performed in an oxidizing atmosphere in which the oxygen concentration is greater than 1% by volume, and then nuclei are grown by switching the atmosphere from the oxidizing atmosphere to a mixed atmosphere of oxygen and inert gas in which the oxygen concentration is 1% by volume or less.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2011
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Toya, Kensaku Mori, Shin Imaizumi, Kenji Ikeuchi, Toshiyuki Osako
  • Publication number: 20130139749
    Abstract: A method for crystallizing a substance dissolved in a solvent, including the following steps: introducing a solvent volume containing the substance into a chamber having a preset temperature, humidity, and gas composition, adding a predetermined volume of a precipitant to the solvent volume containing the substance, allowing the solvent to evaporate while simultaneously observing structural changes in the solvent volume containing the substance and the precipitant by means of dynamic light scattering, detecting weight changes and determining the molarities, making an association with the location in the phase diagram on the basis of the DLS measurement and the results of the molarity determination, allowing a predetermined number of crystal nuclei to form by adding solvent or adding precipitant, putting the solvent volume containing the substance and the precipitant into a metastable state by adding solvent and/or protein solution or by allowing the concentration of the dissolved substance to decrease by allo
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicants: UNIVERSITAET HAMBURG, UNIVERSITAET ZU LUEBECK
    Inventors: Christian Betzel, Rolf Hilgenfeld, Dierk Hilterhaus, Thomas Klupsch, Peter Muehlig, Karsten Dierks, Arne Meyer
  • Patent number: 8435347
    Abstract: A high pressure apparatus and related methods for processing supercritical fluids is described. The apparatus includes a capsule, a heater, at least one ceramic ring with one or more scribe marks and/or cracks present. The apparatus optionally has a metal sleeve containing each ceramic ring. The apparatus also has a high-strength enclosure, end flanges with associated insulation, and a power control system. The apparatus is capable of accessing pressures and temperatures of 0.2-2 GPa and 400-1200° C., respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignees: Soraa, Inc., Elmhurst Research, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark P. D'Evelyn, Joseph A. Kapp, John C. Lawrenson
  • Patent number: 8382896
    Abstract: High throughput screening of crystallization of a target material is accomplished by simultaneously introducing a solution of the target material into a plurality of chambers of a microfabricated fluidic device. The microfabricated fluidic device is then manipulated to vary the solution condition in the chambers, thereby simultaneously providing a large number of crystallization environments. Control over changed solution conditions may result from a variety of techniques, including but not limited to metering volumes of crystallizing agent into the chamber by volume exclusion, by entrapment of volumes of crystallizing agent determined by the dimensions of the microfabricated structure, or by cross-channel injection of sample and crystallizing agent into an array of junctions defined by intersecting orthogonal flow channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignees: California Institute of Technology, The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Carl L. Hansen, Stephen R. Quake, James M. Berger
  • Patent number: 8353985
    Abstract: A process for producing colloidal crystals immobilized with a polymer, comprising the steps of: preparing a monomer-dispersion in which colloidal crystals having a three-dimensionally ordered array state are formed by adding, to a monomer-containing liquid containing at least one kind of monomers, colloidal particles having an average particle size in a range from 0.01 ?m to 10 ?m and a degree of monodispersity expressed by a following equation (1) of 20% or below, [Degree of monodispersity (unit: %)]=([Standard deviation of particle size]/[Average particle size])×100??(1) and then by dispersing the colloidal particles so as to arrange the colloidal particles in a three-dimensionally ordered array state at which a reflection spectrum thereof exhibits a reflection peak; and obtaining the colloidal crystals immobilized with a polymer by polymerizing the monomers in the monomer-dispersion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyota Chuo Kenkyusho
    Inventors: Hiroshi Nakamura, Masahiko Ishii
  • Patent number: 8328933
    Abstract: The invention provides a method to enforce face-to-face stacking of organic semiconductors in the solid state that employs semiconductor co-crystal formers (SCCFs), to align semiconductor building blocks (SBBs). Single-crystal X-ray analysis reveals ?-orbital overlap optimal for organic semiconductor device applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: University of Iowa Research Foundation
    Inventors: Leonard R. MacGillivray, Anatoliy N. Sokolov
  • Patent number: 8216363
    Abstract: A process and system for continuous crystallization of a compound using antisolvent addition in which a solution is prepared with an organic compound and a solvent. An antisolvent is added to the solution in a continuous plug flow system comprising at least one process module. The antisolvent can be added in multiple addition points such that the overall amount of antisolvent added to the continuous plug flow reactor remains fixed. The multiple addition point technique provides every process module with an equal volume of antisolvent. Finally, crystals are recovered from the slurry upon exiting the system. Preferably, the mean crystal size is less than 100 ?m.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Illinois Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Allan S. Myerson, Alejandro Alvarez
  • Patent number: 8210906
    Abstract: A wafer slicing method includes winding a wire around rollers and pressing the wire against an ingot while supplying slurry to the rollers. A previously conducted experiment provides a supply temperature profile of the slurry during the slicing process and the relationship to the axial displacement of the rollers. This relationship is used to implement slurry delivery during the slicing process. The resultant wafers are bowed in a uniform direction. This slicing method provides excellent reproducibility in addition to producing wafers that are bowed in a uniform direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Shin-Etsu Handotai Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Oishi, Daisuke Nakamata
  • Patent number: 8206505
    Abstract: The inventive method for forming nano-dimensional clusters consists in introducing a solution containing a cluster-forming material into nano-pores of natural or artificial origin contained in a substrate material and in subsequently exposing said solution to a laser radiation pulse in such a way that a low-temperature plasma producing a gaseous medium in the domain of the existence thereof, wherein a cluster material is returned to a pure material by the crystallization thereof on a liquid substrate while the plasma is cooling, occurs, thereby forming mono-crystal quantum dots spliced with the substrate material. Said method makes it possible to form two- or three-dimensional cluster lattices and clusters spliced with each other from different materials. The invention also makes it possible to produce wires from different materials in the substrate nano-cavities and the quantum dots from the solution micro-drops distributed through an organic material applied to a glass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Inventors: Sergei Nikolaevich Maximovsky, Grigory Avramovich Radutsky
  • Patent number: 8163084
    Abstract: The invention relates to nanostructure and its manufacturing method. In the manufacturing method of a nanostructure, first anisotropic crystalline particles, connectors having end to be connected to a specific crystal face of each of said crystalline particles, and second particles to be connected to the other end of each of said connectors are prepared. First ends of the connectors are connected to specific crystal faces of the first crystalline particles, and simultaneously or before or after the connection, the second ends of the connectors are connected to the second particles. A nanostructure formed by this method has a three-dimensional structure which does not have a closest packing structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignees: Fujikura Ltd., National University Corporation Hokkaido University
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Terada, Mitsuru Kamikatano, Kuniharu Himeno, Bunsho Ohtani, Takamune Yamagami, Tsukasa Torimoto
  • Publication number: 20120090533
    Abstract: Low-temperature organometallic nucleation and crystallization-based synthesis methods for the fabrication of semiconductor and metal colloidal nanocrystals with narrow size distributions and tunable, size- and shape-dependent electronic and optical properties. Methods include (1) forming a reaction mixture in a reaction vessel under an inert atmosphere that includes at least one solvent, a cationic precursor, an anionic precursor, and at least a first surface stabilizing ligand while stirring at a temperature in a range from about 50° C. to about 130° C. and (2) growing nanocrystals in the reaction mixture for a period of time while maintaining the temperature, the stirring, and the inert-gas atmosphere.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF UTAH RESEARCH FOUNDATION
    Inventors: Michael H. Bartl, Jacqueline T. Siy
  • Patent number: 8092595
    Abstract: A method for forming an ordered array of nanocrystals where a hydrophobic precursor solution with a hydrophobic core material in an organic solvent is added to a solution of a surfactant in water, followed by removal of a least a portion of the organic solvent to form a micellar solution of nanocrystals. A precursor co-assembling material, generally water-soluble, that can co-assemble with individual micelles formed in the micellar solution of nanocrystals can be added to this micellar solution under specified reaction conditions (for example, pH conditions) to form an ordered-array mesophase material. For example, basic conditions are used to precipitate an ordered nanocrystal/silica array material in bulk form and acidic conditions are used to form an ordered nanocrystal/silica array material as a thin film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventors: Hongyou Fan, C. Jeffrey Brinker, Gabriel P. Lopez
  • Patent number: 8052792
    Abstract: The present invention relates to microfluidic devices and methods facilitating the growth and analysis of crystallized materials such as proteins. In accordance with one embodiment, a crystal growth architecture is separated by a permeable membrane from an adjacent well having a much larger volume. The well may be configured to contain a fluid having an identity and concentration similar to the solvent and crystallizing agent employed in crystal growth, with diffusion across the membrane stabilizing that process. Alternatively, the well may be configured to contain a fluid having an identity calculated to affect the crystallization process. In accordance with the still other embodiment, the well may be configured to contain a material such as a cryo-protectant, which is useful in protecting the crystalline material once formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignees: California Institute of Technology, The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Carl L. Hansen, Stephen R. Quake, James M. Berger
  • Patent number: 8048222
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved process for preparing modafinil, whereby it may be isolated in high purity by a single crystallization. The process produces modafinil free of sulphone products of over-oxidation and other byproducts. The invention further provides new crystalline Forms II-VI of modafinil and processes for preparing them. Each of the new forms is differentiated by a unique powder X-ray diffraction pattern. The invention further provides pharmaceutical compositions containing novel modafinil Forms II-IV and VI.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Arina Ceausu, Anita Lieberman, Judith Aronhime
  • Patent number: 8038792
    Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and apparatus for promoting rapid formation of biomolecule crystals from a solution of biomolecules, preferably proteins, wherein the protein solution undergoes rapid concentration according to its isoelectric point in an electric field. Protein crystallization according to the methods of the present invention takes place within a period of hours or less.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Inventor: Shmuel Bukshpan
  • Patent number: 8021480
    Abstract: A static fluid and a second fluid are placed into contact along a microfluidic free interface and allowed to mix by diffusion without convective flow across the interface. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the fluids are static and initially positioned on either side of a closed valve structure in a microfluidic channel having a width that is tightly constrained in at least one dimension. The valve is then opened, and no-slip layers at the sides of the microfluidic channel suppress convective mixing between the two fluids along the resulting interface. Applications for microfluidic free interfaces in accordance with embodiments of the present invention include, but are not limited to, protein crystallization studies, protein solubility studies, determination of properties of fluidics systems, and a variety of biological assays such as diffusive immunoassays, substrate turnover assays, and competitive binding assays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignees: California Institute of Technology, The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Carl L. Hansen, Stephen R. Quake, James M. Berger
  • Publication number: 20110203515
    Abstract: A crystal growing cell which has computerized temperature control and agitation means to inhibit crystal nucleation. The temperature is controlled semi-actively, i.e., by monitoring the temperature with a thermistor and balancing ambient heat loss with heat added to the system by heating resistors or heating elements. When the chemical is completely dissolved by heating the mixture to a temperature above the saturation temperature, the temperature is lowered. At the saturation temperature the temperature is initially reduced slowly to avoid crystal nucleation. The saturation temperature of the initial solution is selected to be at an intermediate temperature which is high enough that the amount of dissolved material is large enough to produce a large crystal or large crystal clusters, yet not so high that the solubility curve has a large slope and therefore requires a high degree of temperature control to avoid crystal nucleation in the solution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2011
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Krautter
  • Patent number: 7998271
    Abstract: New methods for the synthesis of nanocrystals/quantum dots are disclosed. The methods comprise use of reasonably-priced and commercially available heat transfer fluids (such as Dowtherm® A) as solvents to synthesize CdSe nanocrystals. Separation of nucleation and growth is achieved by quenching the reaction solution with relatively cold (room temperature) solvent to lower the solution temperature. Quenching may be followed by raising the solution temperature, to allow controlled growth to take place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: William Marsh Rice Universtiy
    Inventors: Ammar S. Alkhawaldeh, Matteo Pasquali, Michael S. Wong
  • Patent number: 7905957
    Abstract: The present invention is related to a process for obtaining a larger area substrate of mono-crystalline gallium-containing nitride by making selective crystallization of gallium containing nitride on a smaller seed under a crystallization temperature and/or pressure from a supercritical ammonia-containing solution made by dissolution of gallium-containing feedstock in a supercritical ammonia-containing solvent with alkali metal ions, comprising: providing two or more elementary seeds, and making selective crystallization on the two or more separate elementary seeds to get a merged larger compound seed. The merged larger compound seed is used for a seed in a new growth process and then to get a larger substrate of mono-crystal gallium-containing nitride.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignees: Ammono Sp. Z.O.O., Nichia Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Dwilinski, Roman Doradzinski, Jerzy Garczynski, Leszek Sierzputowski, Yasuo Kanbara
  • Patent number: 7901507
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a crystal of ACE protein. The present invention further relates to methods, processes, ACE modulators, pharmaceutical compositions and uses of ACE crystal and the structure coordinates thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignees: University of Bath, University of Cape Town
    Inventors: Ravi Acharya, Edward David Sturrock
  • Patent number: 7819973
    Abstract: A method comprising the steps of continuously changing the concentrations in solution of a biomacromolecule to be crystallized and a precipitant, thereby constructing a crystal phase diagram containing a solubility curve, searching for optimum conditions of crystallization on the basis of the constructed crystal phase diagram, and performing efficient growth of the crystal of the biomacromolecule. Also disclosed is an apparatus for implementing the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute
    Inventors: Nobuo Niimura, Yuki Onishi, Shigeki Arai, Toshiyuki Chatake, Mitsuru Maeda, Kazuo Kurihara
  • Patent number: 7811381
    Abstract: Antisolvent crystallization systems and methods are provided that employ porous hollow fiber membranes. The porous hollow fiber membrane includes a plurality of porous hollow fibers positioned within a shell, each porous hollow fiber defining a lumen side and shell side. A crystallizing solution is introduced to one side of the hollow fibers and an antisolvent is introduced to the other side of the fibers, in either cocurrent or countercurrent flow. One of the antisolvent and the crystallizing solution permeates in part through the porous hollow fiber membrane to the other side and crystals are formed thereby. Permeation of the antisolvent or the crystallizing solution establishes advantageous radial mixing that facilitates crystal formation of a desired size distribution. Downstream mixing, e.g., a completely stirred tank or a static mixer, may be employed to further improve crystallization operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Inventors: Kamalesh K. Sirkar, Dimitrios Zarkadas
  • Patent number: 7794538
    Abstract: A suspension of particles is rapidly self-assembled with a minimal number of defects into a three-dimensional array of particles onto a substrate under simultaneous sedimentating and annealing forces. This array of particles may be ordered as an opal structure. Optionally, the synthesized structure may incorporate an electrolyte into the suspension and be used as a sacrificial form for micromoulding an inverse structure. The inverse structure may exhibit a photonic band gap. Optionally, necking and material composition may be adjusted after micromoulding. These structures are useful to a wide variety of applications. The photonic band gap structure may be heated to function as a light source. The light source may be fitted into standard sockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Inventor: Robert A Marshall
  • Patent number: 7763112
    Abstract: The present invention comprises methods and apparatuses for the production or formation of co-crystals. The methods and apparatuses can be used to grind two or more co-crystal components resulting in the formation of co-crystals. The resultant co-crystals can have several uses as disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: TransForm Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
    Inventors: Javier Gonzalez-Zugasti, Nathan Kane, Mark Oliveira, Matthew Peterson
  • Patent number: 7754010
    Abstract: A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Marc A. Unger, Hou-Pu Chou, Todd A. Thorsen, Axel Scherer, Stephen R. Quake, Markus M. Enzelberger, Mark L. Adams, Carl L. Hansen
  • Patent number: 7713351
    Abstract: The objective of the invention is a crystallizing method for macromolecules, especially proteins and polypeptides, in which selected polysaccharides of biological origin, such as alginate, pectin, dextrin or chitosan and hydrolysates thereof, are used as reagents. Sedimentation of the crystals can be prevented and thus the uniformity of the product contributed with the method. The method can be used to prepare new crystal forms of the polypeptide and to improve the stability of crystals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Macrocrystal Oy
    Inventors: Kalevi Visuri, Sinikka Uotila, Katja Palmunen
  • Patent number: 7704321
    Abstract: Polycrystalline materials of macroscopic size exhibiting Single-Crystal-Like properties are formed from a plurality of Single-Crystal Particles, having Self-Aligning morphologies and optionally bonded together and aligned along at least one, and up to three, crystallographic directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Rutgers, the State University
    Inventors: Richard Riman, Larry McCandlish, Xiangyuan Liu
  • Patent number: 7704319
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a crystal of ACE protein. The present invention further relates to methods, processes, ACE modulators, pharmaceutical compositions and uses of ACE crystal and the structure coordinates thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignees: University of Bath, University of Cape Town
    Inventors: Ravi Acharya, Edward Sturrock
  • Patent number: 7670429
    Abstract: High throughput screening of crystallization of a target material is accomplished by simultaneously introducing a solution of the target material into a plurality of chambers of a microfabricated fluidic device. The microfabricated fluidic device is then manipulated to vary the solution condition in the chambers, thereby simultaneously providing a large number of crystallization environments. Control over changed solution conditions may result from a variety of techniques, including but not limited to metering volumes of crystallizing agent into the chamber by volume exclusion, by entrapment of volumes of crystallizing agent determined by the dimensions of the microfabricated structure, or by cross-channel injection of sample and crystallizing agent into an array of junctions defined by intersecting orthogonal flow channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: The California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Stephen R. Quake, Carl L. Hansen, James M. Berger
  • Patent number: 7666259
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a crystallization and screening plate comprises a plurality of cells open at a top and a bottom, a frame that defines the cells in the plate, and at least two films. The first film seals a top of the plate and the second film seals a bottom of the plate. At least one of the films is patterned to strongly pin the contact lines of drops dispensed onto it, fixing their position and shape. The present invention also includes methods and other devices for manual and high-throughput protein crystal growth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Cornell Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. Thorne, Viatcheslav Berejnov, Yevgeniy Kalinin
  • Patent number: 7645338
    Abstract: The present invention includes (E)-2-(5-Chlorothien-2-yl)-N-{(3S)-1-[(1S)-1-methyl-2-morpholin-4-yl-2-oxoethyl]-2-oxopyrrolidin-3-yl}ethenesulfonamide in substantially crystalline form, pharmaceutical formulations thereof, processes for preparing it, and its use in medicine, particularly use in the amelioration of a clinical condition for which a Factor Xa inhibitor is indicated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Glaxo Group Limited
    Inventors: Philip C. Dell 'Orco, Henry Anderson Kelly, Gita Punjabhai Shah, Nigel Stephen Watson, Robert John Young
  • Patent number: 7621997
    Abstract: Methods of preparing a multi-shell nanocrystal structure, multi-shell nanocrystal structures thus obtained, and a fabricated device including the same are provided. A multi-shell nanocrystal structure may be formed by preparing a core nanocrystal and reacting the core nanocrystal with two or more precursors having different reaction rates to sequentially form two or more layers of shell nanocrystals having different compositions on a surface of the core nanocrystal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shin Ae Jun, Eun Joo Jang
  • Patent number: 7611578
    Abstract: The invention provides a method for the production of a photonic device comprising providing a substrate, forming in the substrate substantially straight pores, lining or filling the pores with a material having voltage-dependent index of refraction, and removing part but not all of the substrate materials so that an array remains of tubes or rods of material having voltage-dependent index of refraction. In a variant of the method the deposited material is piezoelectric and the substrate is completely removed, resulting in piezoelectric tubes or rods of small diameter, generally below 10 ?m.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Cambridge Enterprise Ltd.
    Inventors: Finlay Doogan Morrison, James Floyd Scott
  • Patent number: 7553367
    Abstract: A diL-lysine monosulfate trihydrate crystal which has a large tabular form and is more easily separable from the mother liquor is described. The crystal is obtained by a novel process wherein crystallization is conducted at a lower temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Assignee: Ajinomoto Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Takeshi Kushiku, Dave Steckelberg, Toshiya Tanabe, Jirou Haga, Shinya Fujiki, Kisho Suzuki
  • Patent number: 7531037
    Abstract: Disclosed is a macromolecule-crystal forming apparatus and method capable of obtaining a macromolecule crystal in a simplified and efficient manner. The device comprises a first container containing a sample of macromolecule, a second container containing a gel acting as a buffer material during the crystallization of the macromolecule, and a third container containing a precipitant solution having a function of facilitating the aggregation of molecules during the crystallization of the macromolecule. These containers are connected together in a given manner so as to allow the macromolecule sample and the precipitant to be brought into contact with one another through the gel to induce the crystallization of the macromolecule.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency
    Inventors: Izumi Yoshizaki, Satoshi Sano, Tomoyuki Kobayashi, Masaru Sato, Moritoshi Motohara, Hiroaki Tanaka, Sachiko Takahashi, Shinichi Shinozaki, Mari Yamanaka, Koji Inaka
  • Patent number: 7520933
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method of manufacturing colloidal crystals using a confined convective assembly, more particularly, to a method for manufacturing two-dimensional and/or three dimensional colloidal crystals on a substrate by infusing colloidal suspension between two substrates and self-assembling colloidal particles by capillary action. The present invention can control a convective flow moving the colloidal particles to a meniscus generated by removing the solvent of the colloidal suspension. It is possible to manufacture face-to-face two-dimensional colloidal crystals and/or three-dimensional colloidal crystals within a short time using various sizes of colloidal particles through the control of the convective flow of colloidal particles, which are not easily achieved in the existing method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology
    Inventors: O-Ok Park, Mun-Ho Kim, Sang-Hyuk Im
  • Patent number: 7479186
    Abstract: High throughput screening of crystallization of a target material is accomplished by simultaneously introducing a solution of the target material into a plurality of chambers of a microfabricated fluidic device. The microfabricated fluidic device is then manipulated to vary the solution condition in the chambers, thereby simultaneously providing a large number of crystallization environments. Control over changed solution conditions may result from a variety of techniques, including but not limited to metering volumes of crystallizing agent into the chamber by volume exclusion, by entrapment of volumes of crystallizing agent determined by the dimensions of the microfabricated structure, or by cross-channel injection of sample and crystallizing agent into an array of junctions defined by intersecting orthogonal flow channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignees: California Institute of Technology, Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Stephen R. Quake, Carl L. Hansen, James M. Berger
  • Patent number: 7470324
    Abstract: A method for the crystallization of macromolecules in a three-phase system using a vessel containing a lower aqueous phase, a middle phase and an upper hydrophobic phase having a lower density than that of the lower aqueous phase, wherein an aqueous solution of the macromolecules is added to the middle phase to form a fourth phase, followed by incubation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: Kurt Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 7459021
    Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and apparatus for promoting rapid formation of biomolecule crystals from a solution of biomolecules, preferably proteins, wherein the protein solution undergoes rapid concentration according to its isoelectric point in an electric field. Protein crystallization according to the methods of the present invention takes place within a period of hours or less.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Inventor: Shmuel Bukshpan
  • Patent number: 7459022
    Abstract: The use of microfluidic structures enables high throughput screening of protein crystallization. In one embodiment, an integrated combinatoric mixing chip allows for precise metering of reagents to rapidly create a large number of potential crystallization conditions, with possible crystal formations observed on chip. In an alternative embodiment, the microfluidic structures may be utilized to explore phase space conditions of a particular protein crystallizing agent combination, thereby identifying promising conditions and allowing for subsequent focused attempts to obtain crystal growth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Carl L. Hansen, Morten Sommer, Stephen R. Quake