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Collins, CA

Aaron P. Collins, Aliso Viejo, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110022462DIGITAL CINEMA NETWORK SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TARGETING FILMS AND ADVERTISING - Disclosed herein are systems and methods for the distribution of media content to the public, utilizing an internet community network of subscribers having access to sample content; systems and methods for financing the implementation of digital projection capability in a plurality of theaters; systems and methods for dynamically targeting advertising to an audience based on the brand landscape at a given time in a given place; and systems and methods for progressively encumbering content through licensing as the popularity of content increases.01-27-2011

Amy L.tsui Collins, Oakland, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080254033Pharmaceutical Compositions Containing Antagonists to Lrp4, Lrp8 or Megalin for Treatment of Diseases - The present invention provides LRP4, LRP8 and LRP2 (megalin) polypeptides; polynucleotides encoding such; modulators of LRP4, LRP8 and LRP2 activity; and pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment of diseases. Compositions of the invention contain a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient and at least one modulator that is capable of binding to or interfering with the activity of LRP4, LRP8, LRP2 and active fragments thereof. The invention provides modulators, such as antibodies, RNAi molecules, anti-sense molecules and ribozymes. Additionally, the invention includes methods for the treatment of diseases, such as proliferative diseases and degenerative diseases, and methods of administration of the compositions of the invention.10-16-2008

Amy L. Tsui Collins, Oakland, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080242603Novel Apo2L and IL-24 Polypeptides, Polynucleotides, and Methods of Their Use - Disclosed are newly identified Interleukin 24 and APO2L splice variant molecules, their polypeptide sequences, and the polynucleotides encoding the polypeptide sequences. Also provided is a procedure for producing such polypeptides by recombinant techniques employing, for example, vectors and host cells, and, for example, heterologous secretory leader sequences. Also disclosed are methods for using such polypeptides and modulators thereof for the treatment of diseases, including cancer, immune diseases, infectious diseases, and ischemic diseases.10-02-2008
20090010946Novel Stromal Cell-Derived Factor-1 Polypeptides, Polynucleotides, Modulators Thereof and Methods of Use - Disclosed herein is a newly identified SDF-1 splice variant molecule, its polypeptide sequence, and the polynucleotides encoding the polypeptide sequence, and active fragments thereof. Also provided is a procedure for producing such polypeptides by recombinant techniques employing, for example, vectors and host cells. Also disclosed are methods for utilizing such polypeptides and modulators thereof for the treatment of diseases, including cancer, immune diseases, infectious diseases, and ischemic diseases.01-08-2009
20100015047Lung-Expressed Polypeptides - Modulators of phosphatidic acid phosphatase type 2C and other polypeptides, highly expressed in cancers as compared to normal tissues, are provided for treatment of proliferative disorders such as cancer. A method is provided for detecting polypeptides that are overexpressed in cancer, whereby antibodies or binding proteins that specifically recognize these molecules are contacted with a patient's bodily fluid. The method provides an early diagnosis of cancer, and can detect recurrence and metastasis following an initial diagnosis. The invention further provides methods of treating cancer with therapeutic agents directed toward these protein and peptide biomarkers.01-21-2010
20100062009NOVEL STROMAL CELL-DERIVED FACTOR-1 POLYPEPTIDES, POLYNUCLEOTIDES, MODULATORS THEREOF AND METHODS OF USE - Disclosed herein is a newly identified SDF-1 splice variant molecule, its polypeptide sequence, and the polynucleotides encoding the polypeptide sequence, and active fragments thereof. Also provided is a procedure for producing such polypeptides by recombinant techniques employing, for example, vectors and host cells. Also disclosed are methods for utilizing such polypeptides and modulators thereof for the treatment of diseases, including cancer, immune diseases, infectious diseases, and ischemic diseases.03-11-2010
20110020375STROMAL CELL-DERIVED FACTOR-1 POLYPEPTIDES, POLYNUCLEOTIDES, MODULATORS THEREOF AND METHODS OF USE - Disclosed herein is a newly identified SDF-1 splice variant molecule, its polypeptide sequence, and the polynucleotides encoding the polypeptide sequence, and active fragments thereof. Also provided is a procedure for producing such polypeptides by recombinant techniques employing, for example, vectors and host cells. Also disclosed are methods for utilizing such polypeptides and modulators thereof for the treatment of diseases, including cancer, immune diseases, infectious diseases, and ischemic diseases.01-27-2011

Patent applications by Amy L. Tsui Collins, Oakland, CA US

Boyce E. Collins, San Diego, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090074951SUBSTRATES HAVING THROUGH-HOLE VIAS AND METHOD OF MAKING SAME - A sensor assembly for sensors such as microfabricated resonant sensors is disclosed. The disclosed assembly provides improved performance of the sensors by providing a thermally insensitive environment and short pathways for signals to travel to processing components. Further, the assembly provide modular construction for the sensors and housing modules, thereby allowing replacement of the sensors at a lower cost. The assembly includes a sensor module including a sensor formed on a conductive substrate with a cavity formed on one surface. The substrate has conductive vias extending from the cavity to a second surface of the substrate. A housing assembly accommodates the sensor and includes a rigid housing, preferably made from a ceramic. An electronic component, such as an amplifier, is mounted on the rigid housing. The electronic component electrically engages the vias substantially at the second surface of the substrate. The electronic component receive signals from the sensor through the vias. The signals are then processed through an amplifier and a digital signal processor using a modified periodogram.03-19-2009

Brian Collins, Encinitas, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090238837High Affinity Siglec Ligands - The invention relates to high affinity Siglec ligands that are useful for isolating cells that express Siglecs and for delivering agents to cells that express Siglecs. In one embodiment, the invention provides a method for treating cancer in a mammal that involves administering a Siglec ligand of the invention to the mammal, where the Siglec ligand is linked to a therapeutic agent.09-24-2009

Chris Collins, Petaluma, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100125324Catheter Inner Member - A catheter inner member includes an inner member body, including a first side and a second side, the second side opposing the first side. The inner member body includes an inner surface defining an inner member inner lumen and an outer surface defining a surrounding environment. The inner member further includes at least a first flush port and a second flush port in the inner member body. The first flush port and second flush port provide fluid communication between the inner lumen and a surrounding environment. The first flush port disposed on the first side and the second flush port disposed on the second side, wherein the first flush port is axially displaced from the second flush port.05-20-2010

Chris Collins, San Rafael, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090270838Catheter Flushing Mandrel - A mandrel includes a mandrel body with a proximal major diameter barrel section, a diameter reducing/tapered portion and a distal minor diameter barrel section. The tapered portion connects the proximal major diameter barrel section and distal minor diameter barrel section. The proximal major diameter barrel section has a major diameter, the distal minor diameter barrel section has a minor diameter, the minor diameter less than the major diameter. The minor diameter is less than a diameter of an inner lumen of a coaxial catheter, and the major diameter exceeds the inner diameter of the outer lumen guidewire exit port of the coaxial catheter, and the tapered portion is sized to form a fluid seal the inner diameter of the outer lumen guidewire exit port. The distal minor diameter barrel section of the mandrel occupies and substantially seals and prevent flow through it to the catheter distal end guidewire entry port.10-29-2009
20100324537Catheter Flushing Mandrel - A mandrel includes a mandrel body with a proximal major diameter barrel section, a diameter reducing/tapered portion and a distal minor diameter barrel section. The tapered portion connects the proximal major diameter barrel section and distal minor diameter barrel section. The proximal major diameter barrel section has a major diameter, the distal minor diameter barrel section has a minor diameter, the minor diameter less than the major diameter. The minor diameter is less than a diameter of an inner lumen of a coaxial catheter, and the major diameter exceeds the inner diameter of the outer lumen guidewire exit port of the coaxial catheter, and the tapered portion is sized to form a fluid seal the inner diameter of the outer lumen guidewire exit port. The distal minor diameter barrel section of the mandrel occupies and substantially seals and prevent flow through it to the catheter distal end guidewire entry port.12-23-2010

Cliff Collins, Dublin, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110154287Visual Generation of Mobile Applications Based on Data Models - Systems, methods and computer program products for mobile device application design are described herein. The method accesses a data model corresponding to a selected mobile platform. The data model is used by a device application designer to generate, model, and debug a mobile application. The data model is used to take into consideration characteristics of the selected platform and a selected mobile device as the application is designed. The application is structured and generated for a selected platform that is independent of the data model, but is cognizant of the selected platform. A simulator models the application user interface (UI) as it will appear on the selected platform. The method performs platform-specific validation and allows for correction of various aspects of a generated application including platform-specific features. The tool generates a graphical image that can guide a developer to either generated code or help files corresponding to framework libraries.06-23-2011

Colin Collins, San Rafael, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100285023DETECTING CYP24 EXPRESSION LEVEL AS A MARKER FOR PREDISPOSITION TO CANCER - This invention pertains to the discovery that an amplification of the CYP24 gene or an increase in CYP24 activity is a marker for the presence of, progression of, or predisposition to, a cancer (e.g., breast cancer). Using this information, this invention provides methods of detecting a predisposition to cancer in an animal. The methods involve (i) providing a biological sample from an animal (e.g. a human patient); (ii) detecting the level of CYP24 within the biological sample; and (iii) comparing the level of CYP24 with a level of CYP24 in a control sample taken from a normal, cancer-free tissue where an increased level of CYP24 in the biological sample compared to the level of CYP24 in the control sample indicates the presence of said cancer in said animal.11-11-2010

Patent applications by Colin Collins, San Rafael, CA US

Colin Conrad Collins, San Rafael, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090081672GENES FROM THE 20Q13 AMPLICON AND THEIR USES - The present invention relates to cDNA sequences from a region of amplification on chromosome 20 associated with disease. The sequences can be used in hybridization methods for the identification of chromosomal abnormalities associated with various diseases. The sequences can also be used for treatment of diseases.03-26-2009
20090155789GENES FROM THE 20Q13 AMPLICON AND THEIR USES - The present invention relates to cDNA sequences from a region of amplification on chromosome 20 associated with disease. The sequences can be used in hybridization methods for the identification of chromosomal abnormalities associated with various diseases. The sequences can also be used for treatment of diseases.06-18-2009

David L. Collins, Newbury Park, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080246327Specialized restraint systems for amusement rides - The patron restraint system for amusement rides includes a locking receiver with a locking assembly for engaging a restraining strap. The engagement of the restraining strap in the locking receiver can be verified by a ride operator by visual or physical inspection, or by a sensor system indicating the locked or unlocked state of the locking receiver. A latching ratchet mechanism may be provided in the receiver to restrict movement of the restraining strap until it is released by the ride operator. The sensor system includes an acoustic sensor that detects alignment of an aperture with a piezoelectric acoustic emitter and an acoustic detector.10-09-2008
20110154904SPECIALIZED RESTRAINT SYSTEMS FOR AMUSEMENT RIDES - The patron restraint system for amusement rides includes a locking receiver with a locking assembly for engaging a restraining strap. The engagement of the restraining strap in the locking receiver can be verified by a ride operator by visual or physical inspection, or by a sensor system indicating the locked or unlocked state of the locking receiver. A latching ratchet mechanism may be provided in the receiver to restrict movement of the restraining strap until it is released by the ride operator. The sensor system includes an acoustic sensor that detects alignment of an aperture with a piezoelectric acoustic emitter and an acoustic detector.06-30-2011

Eddie Collins, San Jose, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120120085SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING ENHANCED GRAPHICS IN A VIDEO ENVIRONMENT - A method is provided in one example and includes receiving a video input from a video source coupled to a display configured for rendering a user interface thereon; generating a grayscale element associated with the user interface by evaluating alpha values related to pixels associated with the video input; generating an opacity mask; and setting red, green, blue (RGB) values equal to an alpha value of a source image for certain pixels in the source image.05-17-2012
20120120181SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING ENHANCED GRAPHICS IN A VIDEO ENVIRONMENT - A method is provided in one example and includes receiving a video input from a video source coupled to a display configured for rendering a user interface thereon; evaluating a plurality of pixels within the video input; and determining if a particular pixel within the pixels is associated with a color that matches a designated value associated with a chroma-key. If a match is found for the particular pixel, then the particular pixel is rendered as a clear image on the display, and if the match is not found, the particular pixel is darkened by a certain percentage.05-17-2012

Eric Collins, Mission Viejo, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080287832FOOT PRESSURE ALERT AND SENSING SYSTEM - This invention relates to a system that continuously monitors pressure and force on the foot, analyzes and visualizes the pressure and force exerted on said foot in real-time. The invention measures pressure and force applied to a plurality of sensors placed in various points of an orthotic, shoe, shoe lining, insert, sock or sock type device. If the sensors detect pressure or force, the sensors send a signal to a microcomputer processor located in the shoe that subsequently analyzes and sends the data wireless to either a handheld electronic device, a personal computer, an electronic data capture system or a software program. The handheld electronic device or the personal computer then displays the data to an operator of the device or computer instantaneously; while the data capture system or program forwards the information to a handheld device and/or personal computer.11-20-2008

Foster D. Collins, San Diego, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090199846Solar Roof Tracker - A solar tracking system for mounting on a roof having one or more rooftop planar surfaces includes an array of solar tracking assemblies for at least one of the one or more rooftop planar surfaces, each array of solar tracking assemblies mountable at substantially the same orientation on the rooftop planar surface, each solar tracking assembly including a mounting structure, a steering mechanism, and one or more energy converting units that convert solar energy into electrical energy, the steering mechanism supported at least in part by the mounting structure and the one or more energy converting units steered by the steering mechanism; a drive mechanism that drives multiple steering mechanisms of the array of solar tracking assemblies; and a control processor that controls the drive mechanism so that the one or more energy converting units follow the sun.08-13-2009

Galen Collins, Oroville, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090138132Accurate horticultural sprinkler system and sprinkler head - The present invention includes a unique irrigation sprinkler system with a unique sprinkler head design; a unique method of defining the planted area to be served by the sprinkler head; a unique method for determining when that planted area needs to be watered; a unique way of providing even coverage throughout the planted area when being watered; the ability to use one sprinkler head to individually water multiple, non-overlapping planted areas; a unique way of addressing multiple sprinkler heads in the same sprinkler system; and a unique method for remotely determining the integrity of the sprinkler system.05-28-2009

Gary Collins, Lawndale, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100078887TRAVEL GAME - A toy play set for containing at least one predetermined board game includes a generally elongated body having a hollow interior, first and second opposing longitudinal ends, and a generally curved side wall extending around the hollow interior between the first and second ends. The first and second ends and side wall generally surround the hollow interior in a closed configuration of the body. The body has an open configuration in which the hollow interior is at least partially accessible. A playing surface is operably engaged with the body and is configured to play the predetermined board game. The playing surface is shaped and sized to enable the playing surface to be completely stored within the hollow interior of the body with the body in the closed configuration. The playing surface is accessible at least with the body in the open configuration for playing of the predetermined board game.04-01-2010

Gary Collins, Redondo Beach, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110201396METHODS OF PLAYING DRAWING GAMES AND ELECTRONIC GAME SYSTEMS ADAPTED TO INTERACTIVELY PROVIDE THE SAME - An electronic game system is provided, the electronic game system having: a drawing input device; a processor located within the drawing input device, the processor being configured to convert a user input signal into a display signal; a means for transmitting the display signal to a display; and memory for storing machine readable computer program code, the memory including instructions for causing the processor to implement a method of playing a drawing game.08-18-2011

Gregory Collins, Pacifica, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090070174Lab reservation system - The present invention provides a computer implemented lab reservation system including a reservation engine and a reservation database. The reservation database contains data concerning the computer systems and target operating environments in the lab. The reservation engine manipulates the reservation database in order to efficiently match user requests to specific lab computer systems and target operating environments. The reservation system also manipulates the reservation database in order to efficiently configure computer systems and target operating environments. The reservation engine also manipulates the reservation database in order to efficiently reinstall computer system default settings, when users return configured systems, so that the computer systems can be reallocated to new requests.03-12-2009

Ian Robert Collins, San Francisco, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110173193GEOTEMPORAL SEARCH - Computer-readable media and a computing device are described for providing geotemporal search and a search interface therefor. A search interface having a location portion and a timeline portion is provided. A geographic area is selected in the location portion by adjusting the visible area of a map. A temporal window is selected in the timeline portion by adjusting sliders along a timeline to a desired start and end time. The start and end times can be in the past, present, or future. A geotemporal search is executed based on the selected geographic area and temporal window to identify search results having associated metadata indicating a relationship to the selected geographic area and temporal window. One or more search terms are optionally provided to further refine the geotemporal search.07-14-2011
20110173210IDENTIFYING A TOPIC-RELEVANT SUBJECT - The present technology is related to identifying, from within a corpus of documents, a subject (e.g., person, location, date, etc.) that is relevant to a topic and that is usable to enhance a topic-describing document. Documents within the corpus of documents share a link structure, such that some documents include hyperlinks that enable navigation to the topic-describing document, and the topic-describing document includes hyperlinks that enable navigation to other documents. Text of documents within the corpus is parsed to identify the subject, and a context of the subject suggests a degree of relevance of the subject to the topic. An enhancement type of the subject is determined, and a version of the topic-describing document is enhanced to include a presentation of the subject.07-14-2011

James H. Collins, San Diego, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080262867PATIENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD - A patient management system and method are provided. The method of patient management may include receiving appointment data regarding an appointment for a patient with a selected clinician at a predetermined time, inserting an appointment entry on an electronic calendar of the selected clinician, attaching patient data to the appointment entry on the electronic calendar, providing a first electronic link on the appointment entry to medical records of the patient, providing a second electronic link on the appointment entry to a map showing an address of the patient, partially pre-filling a patient visit form using the attached patient data, receiving patient visit data electronically entered by the selected clinician on the patient visit form during the appointment, and storing the patient visit data into a patient database.10-23-2008
20080262873PATIENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD - A patient management system and method are provided. The patient management system may include portable computers for the clinicians making house calls, a centralized database for storing patient medical records, and an office system for communicating with the portable computer to provide the clinician with patient medical information by accessing the database and receive patient visit medical information from the physician. The operating system may also update the database with the patient visit information House calls may be made to single family/person residences, congregate care facilities or communities, and others.10-23-2008

Jamison Collins, San Jose, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080256330Programming environment for heterogeneous processor resource integration - Compiling a source code program for a heterogeneous multi-core processor having a first instruction sequencer, having a first instruction set architecture, an accelerator to the first instruction sequencer, wherein the accelerator comprises a heterogeneous resource with respect to the first instruction sequencer having a second instruction set architecture, the source code program having specified therein a region of source code for the first instruction set architecture of the processor and a region of source code for the second instruction set architecture of the processor.10-16-2008
20090077348Providing a dedicated communication path for compliant sequencers - In one embodiment, the present invention includes a method for communicating an assertion signal from a first instruction sequencer to a plurality of accelerators coupled to the first instruction sequencer via a dedicated interconnect, detecting the assertion signal in the accelerators and communicating a request for a lock on a second interconnect coupled to the first instruction sequencer and the accelerators, and registering an accelerator that achieves the lock by communication of a registration message for the accelerator to the first instruction sequencer via the second interconnect. Other embodiments are described and claimed.03-19-2009
20110125985Providing A Dedicated Communication Path Separate From A Second Path To Enable Communication Between Compliant Sequencers Using An Assertion Signal - In one embodiment, the present invention includes a method for communicating an assertion signal from a first instruction sequencer to a plurality of accelerators coupled to the first instruction sequencer, detecting the assertion signal in the accelerators and communicating a request for a lock, and registering an accelerator that achieves the lock by communication of a registration message for the accelerator to the first instruction sequencer. Other embodiments are described and claimed.05-26-2011

Patent applications by Jamison Collins, San Jose, CA US

Jamison D. Collins, San Jose, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090158248Compiler and Runtime for Heterogeneous Multiprocessor Systems - Presented are embodiments of methods and systems for library-based compilation and dispatch to automatically spread computations of a program across heterogeneous cores in a processing system. The source program contains a parallel-programming keyword, such as mapreduce, from a high-level, library-oriented parallel programming language. The compiler inserts one or more calls for a generic function, associated with the parallel-programming keyword, into the compiled code. A runtime library provides a predicate-based library system that includes multiple hardware specific implementations (“variants”) of the generic function. A runtime dispatch engine dynamically selects the best-available (e.g., most specific) variant, from a bundle of hardware-specific variants, for a given input and machine configuration. That is, the dispatch engine may take into account run-time availability of processing elements, choose one of them, and then select for dispatch an appropriate variant to be executed on the selected processing element. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.06-18-2009
20110072234Providing Hardware Support For Shared Virtual Memory Between Local And Remote Physical Memory - In one embodiment, the present invention includes a memory management unit (MMU) having entries to store virtual address to physical address translations, where each entry includes a location indicator to indicate whether a memory location for the corresponding entry is present in a local or remote memory. In this way, a common virtual memory space can be shared between the two memories, which may be separated by one or more non-coherent links. Other embodiments are described and claimed.03-24-2011
20110161575MICROCODE REFACTORING AND CACHING - Methods and apparatus relating to microcode refactoring and/or caching are described. In some embodiments, an off-chip structure that stores microcode is shared by multiple processor cores. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.06-30-2011

Patent applications by Jamison D. Collins, San Jose, CA US

Jeffrey M. Collins, San Mateo, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090193397METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING DIAGNOSTIC LOGGING FOR SOFTWARE COMPONENTS - One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that facilitates diagnostic logging for software components. During operation, the system receives program code for a software component that was generated from an object model, where a key attribute has been specified for the object model. During execution of the program code, the system detects when an instance of the key attribute for the object model is accessed, and attaches state associated with the instance to a thread context in the runtime environment. The system then appends this state to a log during a logging operation to facilitate discovering and analyzing program faults.07-30-2009
20090198708METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MANAGING METADATA ASSOCIATED WITH ENTITIES IN A COMPUTING SYSTEM - One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that facilitates managing metadata associated with entities and entity types in a computing system. During operation, the system initializes a global static metadata cache containing global static metadata at the computing system. Next, the system initializes a global dynamic metadata cache containing global dynamic metadata at the computing system. The system then receives a command to initialize a session at the computing system. In response to the command, the system determines a realm for the session, wherein the realm is a virtual private partition of the computing system. The system then initializes a realm-scoped dynamic metadata cache containing realm-scoped dynamic metadata associated with the realm at the computing system. Finally, the system executes operations on the computing system in compliance with the global static metadata, the global dynamic metadata, and the realm-scoped dynamic metadata.08-06-2009
20100095311METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING A PERSISTENCE APPLICATION PROGRAMMING INTERFACE - One embodiment of the present invention provides a system for implementing a persistence application programming interface (API) that is platform independent and can make up-calls to business logic. During operation, the system receives a request at the API to execute a command at a persistence tier of an n-tier distributed application. In response to the request, the system determines an entity type for an entity affected by the command. Next, the system identifies a function at a middle tier of the n-tier distributed application that is associated with the entity type and the command, wherein the middle tier includes the business logic. The system then sends an instruction to the middle tier to execute the function. Finally, upon receiving a confirmation at the API that the function executed, the system executes the command at the persistence tier.04-15-2010
20110022947SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DYNAMIC REGENERATION OF PAGE FRAGMENTS - Disclosed herein are embodiments of a system and method for the provisioning of dynamically generated content. One embodiment can interface a content delivery system and a content management system at the fragment level. Depending upon how a page is organized, a fragment may refer to a block within the page, a portion of the page, or a content item presented on the page. When a content item is updated and published onto the content management system, one embodiment of the invention can operate to track dependencies of managed pages and invalidate/validate fragment(s) affected by the change(s) accordingly. The updated fragment(s) may then be dynamically assembled on-the-fly or on-demand. The updated fragment(s) may or may not be cached. In this way, changes made to a piece of content can be reflected in all pages which utilize this content almost simultaneously with the changes to the content itself.01-27-2011

Patent applications by Jeffrey M. Collins, San Mateo, CA US

Jeffrey W. Collins, Livermore, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080203304Multichannel instrumentation for large detector arrays - A multi-channel spectroscopy system that reads the radiation energy information deposited into a radiation detector, processes it and properly transfers it to a computer embedded to ancillary data (conditions, GPD information etc.). The implementation method chosen is a highly parallel structure of identical channels interfaced to the digital world through a custom-designed intelligent card (back-end) and a commercial data acquisition PC card.08-28-2008

Jennifer Collins, Sherman Oaks, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110225014WEB-BASED METHOD OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT - The present disclosure provides an application that can be manipulated by users with varying levels of access to schedule tasks for personnel. The application can be accessed remotely, through a web browser or mobile device. In one embodiment, the application is used by models, and their agents and agencies, to manage their schedules.09-15-2011

Jeremy Collins, Saratoga, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090143650MINIATURIZED, DERMAL-ADHESIVE-BASED DEVICE FOR POSITION-INDEPENDENT, NON-INVASIVE FETAL MONITORING - A system for fetal position-independent, non-invasive fetal monitoring includes a plurality of disposable adhesive patches for placement on an expectant mother's upper and lower abdomen. Each of the patches includes one or more miniature electronic devices embedded within the adhesive patches to detect: (i) heart sounds of a fetus within the mother, (ii) heart sounds of the mother, and (iii) signals indicative of uterine contractions of the mother. A processing hub having a receiver to receive signals from the plurality of patches, wherein the processing hub receives and processes primary signal from the primary patch and the secondary signals from the secondary patches to triangulate the location of the fetus, cancel noise in the primary signal and increase the amplitude of the primary signal for more reliable reporting.06-04-2009

Jesse Collins, San Francisco, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100070528Method and system for apportioning opportunity among campaigns in a CRM system - In accordance with embodiments, there are provided mechanisms and methods for providing apportioning of opportunity among campaigns in an on-demand service in a database system. These mechanisms and methods for providing apportioning of opportunity among campaigns can enable embodiments to automatically determine which campaigns are related to an opportunity and provide a filtered set of campaigns that are related to at least one opportunity. The ability of embodiments to apportion opportunity among campaigns can provide marketing information that accurately reflects the true relationship between an opportunity and a plurality of campaigns.03-18-2010
20110004668METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SYNCHRONIZING A SERVER AND AN ON-DEMAND DATABASE SERVICE - In accordance with embodiments, there are provided mechanisms and methods for synchronizing a server and an on-demand database service. These mechanisms and methods for synchronizing a server and an on-demand database service can enable embodiments to synchronize a larger amount of data. The ability of embodiments to provide such feature can enable more effective synchronization of a user-level sharing entity database with a multi-user on-demand database service.01-06-2011
20110082854METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR JOINING INDEXES FOR QUERY OPTIMIZATION IN A MULTI-TENANT DATABASE - Methods and systems for query optimization for a multi-tenant database system are provided. Some embodiments comprise receiving at a network interface of a server in a multi-tenant database system an original query transmitted to the multi-tenant database system by a user associated with a tenant, wherein the original query is associated with data accessible by the tenant, and wherein the multi-tenant database system includes at least a first index and a second index. Metadata associated with the data is retrieved, wherein at least a portion of the data is stored in a common table within the multi-tenant database system. A tenant-selective query syntax is determined by analyzing at least one of metadata generated from information about the tenant or metadata generated from the data accessible by the tenant. An improved query is then generated using the query syntax, wherein the improved query is based at least in part upon the original query and a result of a join between a first number of rows associated with the first index and a second number of rows associated with the second index.04-07-2011
20110246449IMPLEMENTING COMPOSITE CUSTOM INDICES IN A MULTI-TENANT DATABASE - Methods and systems for query optimization for a multi-tenant database system are provided. Some embodiments comprise receiving, at a network interface of a server computer in a multi-tenant database system, an original query transmitted to the multi-tenant database system by a user associated with a tenant, wherein the original query is associated with data accessible by the tenant, and wherein the multi-tenant database system includes a first two-column custom index. Metadata associated with the data accessible by the tenant is retrieved, using a processor of the server computer, wherein at least a portion of the data accessible by the tenant is stored in a common table within the multi-tenant database system. A tenant-selective query syntax is determined, using the processor, wherein determining comprises analyzing at least one of metadata generated from information about the tenant or metadata generated from the data accessible by the tenant. Finally, using the processor, an improved query is generated using the query syntax, wherein the improved query is based at least in part upon the original query and data stored in the first two-column custom index.10-06-2011
20110282847Methods and Systems for Validating Queries in a Multi-Tenant Database Environment - In accordance with embodiments, there are provided mechanisms and methods for validating queries. These mechanisms and methods for validating queries can enable embodiments to provide more reliable and faster execution of queries both in development and in production. In an embodiment and by way of example, a method for validating queries is provided. The method embodiment includes capturing a query that is directed to a multi-tenant database. A plan is determined by which the query will be applied to the database. The plan is statically analyzed for performance. Then a performance measure is applied to the query.11-17-2011
20110282864Method and System for Optimizing Queries in a Multi-Tenant Database Environment - In accordance with embodiments, there are provided mechanisms and methods for query optimization in a database system. These mechanisms and methods for query optimization in a database system can enable embodiments to optimize OR expression filters referencing different logical tables. The ability of embodiments to optimize OR expression filters referencing different logical tables can enable optimization that is dynamic and specific to the particular tenant for whom the query is run and improve the performance and efficiency of the database system in response to query requests.11-17-2011
20110282881METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR DETERMINING CANDIDATES FOR A CUSTOM INDEX IN A MULTI-TENANT DATABASE ENVIRONMENT - Methods and systems are described for determining candidates for a custom index in a multi-tenant database environment. In one embodiment, a method includes, capturing a query that is directed to a multi-tenant database, determining whether the captured query is a candidate for an additional filter, determining operators used by the captured query if the query is a candidate, determining data types of the database used by the captured query if the query is a candidate, determining whether there is a current filter for the operator and data types used by the captured query if the query is a candidate, selecting the captured query based on the determined operators, data types, and the determined current filters, and generating a custom index for the selected query.11-17-2011
20110289091Methods and Systems for Providing Multiple Column Custom Indexes In A Multi-Tenant Database Environment - In accordance with embodiments, there are provided methods and systems for providing multiple column custom indexes in a multi-tenant database environment. A method embodiment provides defining a multi-tenant data structure having a plurality of data columns data fields and a plurality of rows for each of multiple tenants, each row including a data column for a tenant identifier, defining a first data field for a tenant, the first data field having a first data type, defining a second data field for the tenant, the second field having a second data type, and defining an index table including a tenant identifier for the tenant, a copy of data from the first data field and the second data field, and a key to the corresponding rows of the multi-tenant data structure.11-24-2011
20110295838TRANSFORMING QUERIES IN A MULTI-TENANT DATABASE SYSTEM - In a method, system, and computer-readable medium having instructions for optimizing a query in a database system, a query request is received with a query predicate to filter data returned in response to the query request and the query predicate has a formula, the query request is transformed to a transformed query request by preprocessing the formula in the query predicate, and the query request is optimized using the transformed query request.12-01-2011
20110295839OPTIMIZING QUERIES IN A MULTI-TENANT DATABASE SYSTEM ENVIRONMENT - In a method, system, and computer-readable medium having instructions for optimizing a query in a database system, a database statistic is generated for a number of related records for one or more entities for at least one tenant and a related record is a record with a relationship to a shared record in a database table for an entity from the one or more entities, a first cost is calculated for accessing the number of related records for at least one tenant, a second cost is calculated for accessing a number of related records accessible to a user, a comparison of the first cost to the second cost is performed to determine a data access path for retrieving accessible related records, and the data access path for retrieving accessible related records is determined based upon the comparison.12-01-2011
20110320435STATIC QUERY OPTIMIZATION - In some embodiments, a computer-implemented method for tuning queries for a multi-tenant database system is provided. A processor retrieves actual statistics associated with data stored on one or more servers in the multi-tenant database system. The data may be associated with one or more tenants of the multi-tenant database system. A subset of the actual statistics is selected, wherein the subset of the actual statistics is related to tenants having a data trait targeted for optimization. The processor determines synthetic statistics based on the subset of the actual statistics. An original query is received at the multi-tenant database system, wherein the original query operates upon data associated with a tenant that has the data trait targeted for optimization. The processor determines an optimal query plan based on the original query and synthetic statistics. Finally, the processor executes the original query based on the optimal query plan.12-29-2011
20120023375GENERATING PERFORMANCE ALERTS - A method for generating performance alerts in a database system. The method includes collecting a predefined set of performance data, and comparing the performance data to one or more predefined thresholds. The method also includes determining if any of the performance data exceeds the one or more predefined thresholds, and generating an alert if any of the data exceeds one of the predefined thresholds.01-26-2012

Patent applications by Jesse Collins, San Francisco, CA US

Joseph Collins, Carlsbad, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080291391HYBRID CONTACT LENSES PREPARED WITH EXPANSION CONTROLLED POLYMERIC MATERIALS - A hybrid contact lens includes a substantially rigid center portion and a substantially flexible skirt portion connected to the center portion. The skirt portion is formed using xerogels compatible with diluents comprising at least one selected from polylactic acid, polyglycolic acid, lactide, glycolide, a polyacetal, a cyclic acetal, a polyketal, a cyclic ketal, a polyorthoester, a cyclic orthoester, di-t-butyl-dicarbonate, tris(trimethylsilyl)amine, and 2,2,2-trifluoroacetamide. These diluents are formulated to function as a stand-in for water in the xerogel polymer, allowing the xerogel to form and bond to the rigid center portion in its fully expanded state. Upon hydration of the hybrid lens, substantially little dimensional change, and thus substantially little distortion, is obtained in the skirt portion. The diluents of the present invention further preserve the mechanical integrity of the xerogel, allowing the xerogel to be machined to final shape, improving the dimensional tolerances which can be achieved in the hybrid lens.11-27-2008

Joshua Collins, Sunnyvale, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080254623METHODS FOR GROWING LOW-RESISTIVITY TUNGSTEN FOR HIGH ASPECT RATIO AND SMALL FEATURES - The present invention addresses this need by providing methods for depositing low resistivity tungsten films in small features and features having high aspect ratios. The methods involve depositing very thin tungsten nucleation layers by pulsed nucleation layer (PNL) processes and then using chemical vapor deposition (CVD) to deposit a tungsten layer to fill the feature. Depositing the tungsten nucleation layer involves exposing the substrate to alternating pulses of a boron-containing reducing agent and a tungsten-containing precursor without using any hydrogen gas, e.g., as a carrier or background gas. Using this process, a conformal tungsten nucleation layer can be deposited to a thickness as small as about 10 Angstroms. The feature may then be wholly or partially filled with tungsten by a hydrogen reduction chemical vapor deposition process. Resistivities of about 14 μΩ-cm for a 500 Angstrom film may be obtained.10-16-2008
20100035427METHODS FOR GROWING LOW-RESISTIVITY TUNGSTEN FILM - Improved methods for depositing low resistivity tungsten films are provided. The methods involve depositing a tungsten nucleation layer on a substrate and then depositing a tungsten bulk layer over the tungsten nucleation layer to form the tungsten film. The methods provide precise control of the nucleation layer thickness and improved step coverage. According to various embodiments, the methods involve controlling thickness and/or improving step coverage by exposing the substrate to pulse nucleation layer (PNL) cycles at low temperature. Also in some embodiments, the methods may improve resistivity by using a high temperature PNL cycle of a boron-containing species and a tungsten-containing precursor to finish forming the tungsten nucleation layer.02-11-2010
20110223763METHODS FOR GROWING LOW-RESISTIVITY TUNGSTEN FOR HIGH ASPECT RATIO AND SMALL FEATURES - The present invention addresses this need by providing methods for depositing low resistivity tungsten films in small features and features having high aspect ratios. The methods involve depositing very thin tungsten nucleation layers by pulsed nucleation layer (PNL) processes and then using chemical vapor deposition (CVD) to deposit a tungsten layer to fill the feature. Depositing the tungsten nucleation layer involves exposing the substrate to alternating pulses of a boron-containing reducing agent and a tungsten-containing precursor without using any hydrogen gas, e.g., as a carrier or background gas. Using this process, a conformal tungsten nucleation layer can be deposited to a thickness as small as about 10 Angstroms. The feature may then be wholly or partially filled with tungsten by a hydrogen reduction chemical vapor deposition process. Resistivities of about 14 μΩ-cm for a 500 Angstrom film may be obtained.09-15-2011

Patent applications by Joshua Collins, Sunnyvale, CA US

Ken Collins, San Jose, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100327873MULTI-DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS FOR SUBSTRATE-LEVEL MEASUREMENTS - Described herein is a method and apparatus for diagnosing processing equipment with a multi-diagnostic device. In one embodiment, a multi-diagnostic device is located in a plasma processing environment and includes an electronic circuitry. The device includes a first array of sensors and a second array of sensors. The circuitry is used to simultaneously (or nearly simultaneously) measure the distributions of ion saturation current and the potential at the device using the first array of sensors and to measure resistances of the second array of sensors to determine the distribution of the temperature at the surface of the device.12-30-2010

Kenneth Collins, San Jose, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090302002METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REMOVING POLYMER FROM A SUBSTRATE - A method and an apparatus for removing polymer from a substrate are provided. In one embodiment, an apparatus utilized to remove polymer from a substrate includes a processing chamber having a chamber wall and a chamber lid defining a process volume, a substrate support assembly disposed in the processing chamber, and a remote plasma source coupled to the processing chamber through an outlet port formed within the chamber wall, the outlet port having an opening pointing toward an periphery region of a substrate disposed on the substrate support assembly, wherein the remote plasma source is fabricated from a material resistant to hydrogen species.12-10-2009
20110005680TUNABLE GAS FLOW EQUALIZER - A tunable gas flow equalizer is described. In an embodiment, the tunable flow equalizer includes a gas flow equalizer plate having primary opening and a secondary opening. The primary opening may surround a substrate support, and the secondary opening may be configured with a tuner. In an embodiment, the substrate support may be vertically adjustable with respect to the gas flow equalizer plate. The flow uniformity may be fine tuned by adjusting a tuner configured with a secondary opening in the gas flow equalizer plate and/or by adjusting the height of a vertically positionable substrate support plate having an inwardly tapered skirt 01-13-2011

Kenneth A. Collins, Mission Viejo, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080221553System and method for rapidly cooling cardiac arrest patient - A combined occlusion/infusion catheter is placed in the aorta of a cardiac arrest patient to occlude the aorta at a location just above the renal arteries/celiac trunk while rapidly infusing a liter or more of cold saline into the aorta below the occlusion. This flushes white cells from the bowel (now placed into a state of hypothermic stasis) induces hypothermia in the whole body, with perfusion pressure of the cold fluid maximized to the brain.09-11-2008
20110137249System and method for bringing hypothermia rapidly onboard - An intravenous heat exchange catheter and/or an external cooling pad/bladder can be used to maintain hypothermia in, e.g., a cardiac arrest patient, but to accelerate the cooling process the patient first can be infused with cold saline before the opportunity arises to connect the catheter or pad to the patient.06-09-2011
20110144730SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LEAK DETECTION IN EXTERNAL COOLING PAD - An externally-applied heat exchange pad has three layers laminated together, an inner and outer non-conductive layer and a middle conductive layer. A leak in the inner layer causes coolant to contact the middle layer and change impedance, which can be sensed and used as an indication of an impending total leak of the pad,06-16-2011

Patent applications by Kenneth A. Collins, Mission Viejo, CA US

Kenneth D. Collins, San Diego, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090199846Solar Roof Tracker - A solar tracking system for mounting on a roof having one or more rooftop planar surfaces includes an array of solar tracking assemblies for at least one of the one or more rooftop planar surfaces, each array of solar tracking assemblies mountable at substantially the same orientation on the rooftop planar surface, each solar tracking assembly including a mounting structure, a steering mechanism, and one or more energy converting units that convert solar energy into electrical energy, the steering mechanism supported at least in part by the mounting structure and the one or more energy converting units steered by the steering mechanism; a drive mechanism that drives multiple steering mechanisms of the array of solar tracking assemblies; and a control processor that controls the drive mechanism so that the one or more energy converting units follow the sun.08-13-2009

Kevin T. Collins, Roseville, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080225872DYNAMICALLY DEFINING QUEUES AND AGENTS IN A CONTACT CENTER - In one embodiment, an automatic call distributor apparatus is provided, including a network interface operable to receive a request for a service, and a processor operable to assign the request to a queue and to associate a number of resources with the queue based upon a determination of at least one dynamic parameter of the queue. Advantageously, resources may be allocated to queues in a flexible, efficient, and dynamic manner.09-18-2008

Kurt Raffiki Collins, San Francisco, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120008769Method and System For Managing A Distributed Identity - A method for managing a distributed identity, including retrieving identification data of a user, wherein the identification data includes a username, a password, and metadata; receiving, from a general-use device, a unique physical identifier of the user; combining the unique physical identifier and the identification data to create a unique identity record of the user; encrypting at least a component of the unique identity record; creating a hash of an identifying token of the unique identity record; passing the hash of the identity token of the unique identity record to be parsed into a hierarchy; organizing the unique identity record in a distributed database of a plurality of unique identity records; and storing the unique identity record, containing the encrypted component, in the distributed database of the plurality of unique identity records.01-12-2012

Lars Lamont Collins, Long Beach, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110079234Hole exposed on the key ring nail clipper - The present invention provides a nail clipper having a hole to receive a key chain wherein the hole is a sufficient distance from the lever arm of the clipper to easily expose the hole for receiving a key chain. The key ring hole is better exposed, with no hindrance from the pivot arm, either via an extension of the clippers themselves or through a shortening of the pivot arm.04-07-2011

Leland D. Collins, Palo Alto, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100235780System and Method for Identifying Words Based on a Sequence of Keyboard Events - A system, a computer readable storage medium including instructions, and computer-implemented method for displaying at least one word based on a sequence of keyboard events. A sequence of keyboard events representing keystrokes is received. The sequence of keyboard events is processed by: accessing and traversing nodes of a trie data structure in accordance with the sequence of keyboard events and upon arriving at a word node of the trie data structure, identifying one or more corresponding words to be displayed, and displaying at least one word of the one or more corresponding words to be displayed.09-16-2010

Lila R. Collins, Fremont, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090047739Direct Differentiation Method for Making Cardiomyocytes from Human Embryonic Stem Cells - This invention provides a new procedure for generating cardiomyocyte lineage cells from embryonic stem cells for use in regenerative medicine. Differentiating by way of embryoid body formation or in serum is no longer required. Instead, the stem cells are plated onto a solid substrate, and differentiated in the presence of select factors and morphogens. After enrichment for cells with the appropriate phenotype, the cells are allowed to cluster into Cardiac Bodies™, which are remarkably homogeneous and suitable for the treatment of heart disease.02-19-2009

Lisa Collins, Brea, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100012619Towel and bottle system - This invention is a towel that attaches onto a drinking bottle and allows a person to quickly wipe and absorb fluids off their body. It acts as a guard against spills by the person drinking. The towel is made of lightweight, soft, and absorbent materials, which may be disposable or washable. The towel is constructed so as to be attached to the bottle without obscuring or covering the main label at the front of the bottle.01-21-2010

Mark A. Collins, Foster City, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120026573ELECTROCHROMIC WINDOW FABRICATION METHODS - Methods of manufacturing electrochromic windows are described. An electrochromic device is fabricated to substantially cover a glass sheet, for example float glass, and a cutting pattern is defined based on one or more low-defectivity areas in the device from which one or more electrochromic panes are cut. Laser scribes and/or bus bars may be added prior to cutting the panes or after. Edge deletion can also be performed prior to or after cutting the electrochromic panes from the glass sheet. Insulated glass units (IGUs) are fabricated from the electrochromic panes and optionally one or more of the panes of the IGU are strengthened.02-02-2012

Mark Andrew Collins, Antioch, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100072862Inertial sensor with dual cavity package and method of fabrication - Inertial sensor having a body with first and second cavities on opposite sides thereof, a sensing element in the first cavity, electronic circuitry in the second cavity, electrical conductors interconnecting the sensing element and the circuitry, and leads connected electrically to the circuitry and extending from the body for mounting the sensor and making connections with the circuitry.03-25-2010
20110010924Inertial sensor with dual cavity package and method of fabrication - Inertial sensor having a body with first and second cavities on opposite sides thereof, a sensing element in the first cavity, electronic circuitry in the second cavity, electrical conductors interconnecting the sensing element and the circuitry, and leads connected electrically to the circuitry and extending from the body for mounting the sensor and making connections with the circuitry.01-20-2011

Michael D. Collins, Agoura Hills, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
201000297774-[(E)-2-(5,6,7,8-TETRAHYDRO-5,5,8,8-TETRAMETHYL-2-NAPTHALENYL)-1-PROPENYL- ]BENZOIC ACID ANALOGS AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE AND USE THEREOF - Analogs of 4-[(E)-2-(5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-5,5,8,8-tetramethyl-2-napthalenyl)-1-propenyl]benzoic acid and methods of manufacture and use thereof, such as for use in cancer prevention and treatment.02-04-2010

Michael Keith Collins, Cupertino, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120013201BATTERY PACK FAULT COMMUNICATION AND HANDLING - A method of handling a fault in a battery pack, the method comprising: a battery module supplying a voltage to a high-voltage circuit; a battery management system transmitting a heartbeat signal to the battery module via a fault bus; the battery module preventing the heartbeat signal from being transmitted back to the battery management system in response to the battery module detecting a critical condition; and the battery management system shutting off the supply of voltage from the battery module to the high-voltage circuit in response to the battery module preventing the heartbeat signal from being transmitted back to the battery management system. The battery module transmits battery data to the battery management system via a communication bus, which is distinct from the fault bus, and the battery management system transmits one or more commands to the battery module via the communication bus.01-19-2012
20120013290BATTERY PACK ENUMERATION METHOD - A method of registering a plurality of Battery-Monitoring-Units (BMUs) in a battery pack with a Battery-Management-System (BMS), the method comprising: providing an indication to a user, wherein the indication prompts the user to register one of the BMUs with the BMS; the user performing an action on a communication-initiating mechanism on one of the BMUs, wherein the communication-initiating mechanism is configured to initiate the sending of a communication by the BMU to the BMS in response to the user performing the action; the BMU sending a communication to the BMS in response to the user performing the action on the communication-initiating mechanism; the BMS receiving the communication from the BMU; and the BMS registering the BMU in response to receiving the communication from the BMU.01-19-2012

Michael Raymond Collins, San Diego, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
201101440846 SUBSTITUTED 2- HETEROCYCLYLAMINO PYRAZINE COMPOUNDS AS CHK-1 INHIBITORS - The present invention is directed to compounds of formula (I),06-16-2011

Michael S. Collins, San Marcos, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080215079Intraoperative Membrane Cutting Tool - A tool for forming a predetermined shaped and sized piece of tissue membrane from a sheet of surgically implantable tissue membrane comprising a body having a cutting portion configured to engage and to form a piece from a sheet of tissue membrane and a drive portion configured to apply a force to the cutting portion to form the piece of tissue membrane. The shapes and sizes of the cutting portions include those typically used in medical procedures.09-04-2008

Nathalie Sophia Collins, Sunnyvale, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100088376Obtaining content and adding same to document - Mechanisms to assist a user in obtaining content may be integrated with the tools that allow the user to author an e-mail message or any other type of document. For example, an e-mail composition system may offer various buttons that allow users to obtain certain types of content—e.g., movie times, restaurant menus, etc. When the user clicks the button, the requested type of content may be obtained, and the user may be offered the opportunity to insert the obtained content into the document that is being authored. The content that is obtained may follow a particular structure. For example, a system might be configured to respond to a request for movie-related content by returning a list of show-times and theaters for a particular movie.04-08-2010

Nathan Collins, San Mateo, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110257143Compositions and Method for the Treatment of Multiple Myeloma - The disclosure provides compositions and methods for treating multiple myeloma. In some embodiments, the compositions comprise (E)-3-hydroxy-21-[2′-(N,N-dimethylamino)ethoxy]-19-norpregna-1,3,5(10),17(20)-tetraene or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or prodrug thereof and a pharmaceutical carrier.10-20-2011

Patrick Collins, Millbrae, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110065100Transcription biomarkers of biological responses and methods - This invention provides transcription regulatory control sequences, the activity of which function as biomarkers for a variety of biological responses. This invention also provides expression constructs in which a biomarker transcription regulatory sequence is operably linked with a sequence for a reporter. Cells that comprise these expression constructs can be used in assays to identify conditions that modulate activity of the biological response.03-17-2011

Patrick J. Collins, San Francisco, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080207960Methods, compositions, and kits for post-hybridization processing of arrays - In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to systems, compositions, and methods for treating a microarray. The compositions include a superwetting agent. The methods include contacting the microarray with an aqueous mixture including the superwetting agent after a hybridization step. Kits for carrying out the methods are also provided.08-28-2008

Patent applications by Patrick J. Collins, San Francisco, CA US

Patrick T. Collins, San Diego, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100011521DEFLECTOR FOR A POOL CLEANER SWEEP TAIL HOSE - A pool cleaner having a sweep tail hose has a deflector at a downstream or discharge end thereof, wherein the deflector comprises a relatively flexible structure in comparison with the sweep tail hose. During normal submerged operation as the pool cleaner and sweep tail hose travel over submerged pool floor and side wall surfaces, water jetted from the sweep tail hose flows substantially without restriction through the deflector. However, when the discharge end of the sweep tail hose breaks the surface of water within the swimming pool, the relatively flexible deflector falls by gravity over the otherwise open discharge end of the sweep tail hose to deflect water jetted therefrom. Accordingly, the deflector effectively knocks down and prevents water jetted from the sweep tail hose from spraying over any significant distance or area of a surrounding pool deck region.01-21-2010

Philip Collins, Irvine, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100231242ELECTRONIC SENSING OF BIOLOGICAL AND CHEMICAL AGENTS USING FUNCTIONALIZED NANOSTRUCTURES - This invention provides for an apparatus and a method for detecting the presence of pathogenic agents with sensors containing functionalized nanostructures integrated into circuits on silicon chips. The nanostructures are functionalized with molecular transducers that recognize and bind targeted analytes which are diagnostic of the pathogenic agent of interest. The molecular transducer includes a receptor portion, which binds the analyte, and an anchor portion that attaches to the nanostructure. Upon binding of the analyte, a change in molecular configuration represented by the newly formed receptor-analyte complex creates a force that is transmitted to the nanostructure via the anchor portion of the transducer. The effect of the force transmitted to the nanostructure is to alter its conductivity. The change in conductivity of the nanotube thus represents a signal that indicates the presence of the pathogenic agent of interest.09-16-2010
20110154648ELECTRONIC SENSING OF BIOLOGICAL AND CHEMICAL AGENTS USING FUNCTIONALIZED NANOSTRUCTURES - This invention provides for an apparatus and a method for detecting the presence of pathogenic agents with sensors containing functionalized nanostructures integrated into circuits on silicon chips. The nanostructures are functionalized with molecular transducers that recognize and bind targeted analytes which are diagnostic of the pathogenic agent of interest. The molecular transducer includes a receptor portion, which binds the analyte, and an anchor portion that attaches to the nanostructure. Upon binding of the analyte, a change in molecular configuration represented by the newly formed receptor-analyte complex creates a force that is transmitted to the nanostructure via the anchor portion of the transducer. The effect of the force transmitted to the nanostructure is to alter its conductivity. The change in conductivity of the nanotube thus represents a signal that indicates the presence of the pathogenic agent of interest.06-30-2011

Philip G. Collins, Irvine, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090165533SENSOR DEVICE WITH HEATED NANOSTRUCTURE - A nanostructure sensing device includes a substrate, a nanotube disposed over the substrate, and at least two conductive elements electrically connected to the nanotube. A electric current on the order of about 10 μA, or greater, is passed through the conductive elements and the nanotube. As a result, the nanotube heats up relative to the substrate. In the alternative, some other method may be used to heat the nanotube. When operated as a sensor with a heated nanotube, the sensor's response and/or recovery time may be markedly improved.07-02-2009

Patent applications by Philip G. Collins, Irvine, CA US

Philip G. Collins, Oakland, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090309092SELF-ALIGNED NANOTUBE FIELD EFFECT TRANSISTOR AND METHOD OF FABRICATING SAME - A self-aligned carbon-nanotube field effect transistor semiconductor device comprises a carbon-nanotube deposited on a substrate, a source and a drain formed at a first end and a second end of the carbon-nanotube, respectively, and a gate formed substantially over a portion of the carbon-nanotube, separated from the carbon-nanotube by a dielectric film.12-17-2009
20100001260SELF-ALIGNED NANOTUBE FIELD EFFECT TRANSISTOR AND METHOD OF FABRICATING SAME - A self-aligned carbon-nanotube field effect transistor semiconductor device comprises a carbon-nanotube deposited on a substrate, a source and a drain formed at a first end and a second end of the carbon-nanotube, respectively, and a gate formed substantially over a portion of the carbon-nanotube, separated from the carbon-nanotube by a dielectric film.01-07-2010
20110003698MODIFICATION OF SELECTIVITY FOR SENSING FOR NANOSTRUCTURE SENSING DEVICE ARRAYS - An electronic system for selectively detecting and identifying a plurality of chemical species, which comprises an array of nanostructure sensing devices, is disclosed. Within the array, there are at least two different selectivities for sensing among the nanostructure sensing devices. Methods for fabricating the electronic system are also disclosed. The methods involve modifying nanostructures within the devices to have different selectivity for sensing chemical species. Modification can involve chemical, electrochemical, and self-limiting point defect reactions. Reactants for these reactions can be supplied using a bath method or a chemical jet method. Methods for using the arrays of nanostructure sensing devices to detect and identify a plurality of chemical species are also provided. The methods involve comparing signals from nanostructure sensing devices that have not been exposed to the chemical species of interest with signals from nanostructure sensing devices that have been exposed to the chemical species of interest.01-06-2011

Patent applications by Philip G. Collins, Oakland, CA US

Richard Collins, Corona, CA US

Richard Collins, Sunnyvale, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090222425PRODUCT NORMALIZATION - A computer-implemented approach for organizing input listings from various sources of input listings. Input listings are organized by mapping the input listings to consolidated listing that correspond to the input listings. The mapping of the input listings are based on various techniques such as a Stock Keeping Unit item-listing-to-consolidated-listing matching technique, a name/title item-listing-to-consolidated-listing matching technique, and a model item-listing-to-consolidated-listing matching technique.09-03-2009
20120030205PRODUCT NORMALIZATION - A computer-implemented approach for organizing input listings from various sources of input listings. Input listings are organized by mapping the input listings to consolidated listing that correspond to the input listings. The mapping of the input listings are based on various techniques such as a Stock Keeping Unit item-listing-to-consolidated-listing matching technique, a name/title item-listing-to-consolidated-listing matching technique, and a model item-listing-to-consolidated-listing matching technique.02-02-2012

Patent applications by Richard Collins, Sunnyvale, CA US

Richard O. Collins, Santa Clara, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090272719SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PEDESTAL ADJUSTMENT - A pedestal positioning assembly system for use in a substrate processing system includes a pedestal rigidly attached to a pedestal shaft, a reference rigidly attached to the substrate processing system, a lateral adjustment assembly to adjust a lateral location of the pedestal relative to the reference, and a vertical adjustment assembly to adjust a tilt of the pedestal relative to the reference. The lateral adjustment assembly and the vertical adjustment assembly are external to a processing chamber and are coupled to the pedestal disposed within the processing chamber through the pedestal shaft. The reference can be a ring and the lateral adjustment assembly substantially centers the pedestal within the ring. A method of adjusting a pedestal includes leveling the pedestal, translating the pedestal, calibrating the pedestal height to a preheat ring level, and checking the level and location of the pedestal while rotating the pedestal.11-05-2009
20090276097NON-CONTACT SUBSTRATE SUPPORT POSITION SENSING SYSTEM AND CORRESPONDING ADJUSTMENTS - A substrate processing system includes an optical measurement assembly coupled to an exterior of a processing chamber that has a portion that is transparent. The processing chamber includes a reference object and a pedestal for supporting a work piece. The optical measurement assembly measures a lateral location, a height and a tilt of the pedestal by transmitting light into the processing chamber through the transparent portion of the processing chamber and detecting a reflected light from both the reference object and the portion of the pedestal after the reflected light leaves the chamber through the transparent portion of the processing chamber. A method of adjusting a pedestal includes analyzing the reflected light and leveling the pedestal, translating the pedestal, calibrating the pedestal height to a preheat ring level, and checking the level and location of the pedestal in response to the analyzed reflected light.11-05-2009
20100075488CVD REACTOR WITH MULTIPLE PROCESSING LEVELS AND DUAL-AXIS MOTORIZED LIFT MECHANISM - An apparatus for processing a substrate, comprising a processing chamber and a substrate support and lift pin assembly disposed within the chamber. The substrate support and lift pin assembly are coupled to a lift mechanism that controls positioning of the substrate support and the lift pins and provides rotation for the substrate support. The lift mechanism includes at least one sensor capable of generating a signal when clearance between the substrate support and the lift pins allows rotation of the substrate support to begin. The substrate support capable of concurrent axial motion and rotation may be used in a processing chamber comprising multiple processing zones separated by edge rings. Substrates may be subjected to successive or cyclical processes by moving between the multiple processing zones.03-25-2010

Patent applications by Richard O. Collins, Santa Clara, CA US

Robert J. Collins, Carlsbad, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080255915SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ADVERTISEMENT MANAGEMENT - The present invention relates to systems and methods for optimizing and managing advertising campaigns. The method of the present invention comprises storing one or more advertisement data structures associated with an ad group data structure in the ad group data structure. One or more ad group data structures associated with a campaign data structure are stored in an ad campaign data structure. Additionally, one or more ad campaign data structures associated with an advertised property are stored in an account data structure.10-16-2008
20080270223System and Method for Creating and Providing a User Interface for Displaying Advertiser Defined Groups of Advertisement Campaign Information - Systems and Methods for creating and providing a user interface for displaying advertiser defined groups of advertisement campaign information is disclosed. In one implementation, a quality score associated with an ad group is calculated based at least in part on a historical performance of the ad group. Ad campaign information associated with the ad group is then sent to a user interface for display on the user interface, the advertisement campaign information comprising a graphical representation of the calculated quality score.10-30-2008
20090198684System and Method for Determining Semantically Related Terms - The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods for determining semantically related terms. Generally, one or more seed terms are received from a user. A system searches a first index comprising a plurality of terms and one or more webpages associated with each term of the plurality of terms to determine a plurality of webpages associated with the seed terms. The system then searches a second index comprising a plurality of webpages and one or more terms associated with each webpage of the plurality of webpages to determine a plurality of potential terms associated with the plurality of webpages associated with the seed terms. At least one term of the plurality of potential terms is suggested to a user.08-06-2009

Patent applications by Robert J. Collins, Carlsbad, CA US

Roger Collins, Novato, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100254410SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMPRESSING DATA USING FIELD-BASED CODE WORD GENERATION - A method for compressing a message is described comprising: identifying a first field and a second field within the message; applying a first set of code words to encode data in the first field; and applying a second set of code words to encore data in the second field.10-07-2010

Roy Thomas Collins, San Diego, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100242495HYBRID GAS TURBINE ENGINE - ELECTRIC MOTOR/GENERATOR DRIVE SYSTEM - A method of operating a drive system for a load is disclosed. The drive system may have an electric motor/generator and a gas turbine engine. The engine may have a combustor, and main and pilot flow paths via which fuel is supplied to the combustor. The engine may be operable in low and standard emissions modes. A proportion of the fuel that is supplied to the combustor via the pilot flow path may be greater in the standard emissions mode than in the low emissions mode. The method may include determining an engine power requirement of the load, and whether the engine power requirement of the load is sufficiently large to operate the engine in the low emissions mode. Additionally, the method may include operating the electric motor/generator if the engine power requirement of the load is not sufficiently large to operate the engine in the low emissions mode.09-30-2010

Scott L. Collins, Roseville, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090214315Drop-in anchor for concrete structures - A radially expansible sleeve to provide part of a drop-in anchor for receipt in a bore formed in a concrete structure. The sleeve has arcuate protrusions with knife-like distal edges extending therearound. Upon radial expansion of the sleeve, the knife-like edges cut into the interior surface of the bore to anchor the sleeve in place.08-27-2009

Sean M. Collins, Canyon Country, CA US

William Collins, San Diego, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120117168METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ENABLING DEVICE COMMUNICATION AND CONTROL USING XMPP - A method and device is provided for platform independent device communication by detecting a request at a processor-based device to perform a function, determining an external device corresponding to the request, retrieving a tag for the external device for performing a function corresponding to the request and generating a message implemented in XMPP, having embedded therein the tag, wherein the tag is essential at the external device for performing the function corresponding to the request. Receiving the message at a device, determining whether the message comprises a device message, retrieving a tag included in the message, wherein the tag corresponds to an executable command to perform a function and executing the tag to perform the function.05-10-2012