| President and Fellows of Harvard College Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
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| 20120136416 | Caged Neuropeptides: modulation and measurement of synapse and signaling activity; and methods for drug evaluation, pharmaceuticals preparation and treatment - A neuropeptide is caged and delivered to a synaptic site, then photolytically activated to enable precise temporal and spatial temporal investigation of localized signaling activity or synaptic responses. Caged molecules, delivery and activation systems clarify the kinetics and activity of neuropeptide-mediated signaling to identify agonists and permit focused drug evaluation for specific diseases and conditions. The caged peptides may also provide light-mediated treatment therapies for localized relief of pain or nerve-related conditions, and serve as a screening or measurement tool for potential agonists and antagonists. A kit includes the caged molecule and may further include a reporter for indicating response to the activated neuropeptide. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120136033 | Small Molecule Antagonists of Phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-Triphosphate (PIP3) and Uses Thereof - Disclosed are a new class of non-lipid small molecule inhibitors which interfere with the interaction between PIP3 and pleckstrin homology domains. These molecules target a broad range of PIP3-dependent signaling events in vitro and exert significant anti-tumor activity in vivo. The small molecule inhibitors of the invention can be used alone or together with tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) or other cancer medicament to treat cancer. Small molecule inhibitors of the invention act synergistically in combination with TRAIL in treating cancer. Pharmaceutical compositions and methods for treating cancer are provided. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120135448 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR THE FABRICATION OF 3D POLYMERIC FIBERS - The present invention provides methods and devices for the fabrication of 3D polymeric fibers having micron, sub-micron, and nanometer dimensions, as well as methods of use of these polymeric fibers. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120135412 | QUALITY CONTROL BIOASSAYS FOR NUTRICEUTICAL AND MEDICINAL PRODUCTS - Bioassays for detecting the ability of one sample of a food substance, nutritional supplement, therapeutic agent and/or disease preventive agent relative to that of a second sample of such a substance, supplement and/or agent to inhibit, upregulate or otherwise modulate translation initiation, and thereby demonstrate a disease curative and/or preventive effect in a human and/or animal that consumes a such substance, supplement and/or agent or to whom a such substance, supplement and/or agent is administered are provided. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120134998 | SECRETED AP2 AND METHODS OF INHIBITING SAME - A method of reducing a symptom of a clinical disorder characterized by aberrantly elevated circulating aP2 is carried out by administering to a subject an inhibitor of secreted aP2, secretion of aP2, or a serum aP2 blocking agent. For example, glucose intolerance is reduced following administration of such an inhibitor or agent. Exemplary compositions inhibit cellular secretion of aP2 or bind to circulating aP2, thereby reducing the level or activity of aP2 in blood or serum. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120132288 | FLUID INJECTION - The present invention generally relates to systems and methods for the control of fluids and, in some cases, to systems and methods for flowing a fluid into and/or out of other fluids. As examples, fluid may be injected into a droplet contained within a fluidic channel, or a fluid may be injected into a fluidic channel to create a droplet. In some embodiments, electrodes may be used to apply an electric field to one or more fluidic channels, e.g., proximate an intersection of at least two fluidic channels. For instance, a first fluid may be urged into and/or out of a second fluid, facilitated by the electric field. The electric field, in some cases, may disrupt an interface between a first fluid and at least one other fluid. Properties such as the volume, flow rate, etc. of a first fluid being urged into and/or out of a second fluid can be controlled by controlling various properties of the fluid and/or a fluidic droplet, for example curvature of the fluidic droplet, and/or controlling the applied electric field. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120129759 | PROTEIN SURFACE REMODELING - Aggregation is a major cause of the misbehavior of proteins. A system for modifying a protein to create a more stable variant is provided. The method involves identifying non-conserved hydrophobic amino acid residues on the surface of a protein, suitable for mutating to more hydrophilic residues (e.g., charged amino acids). Any number of residues on the surface may be changed to create a variant that is more soluble, resistant to aggregation, has a greater ability to re-fold, and/or is more stable under a variety of conditions. The invention also provides GFP, streptavidin, and GST variants with an increased theoretical net charge created by the inventive technology. Kits are also provided for carrying out such modifications on any protein of interest. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120127568 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR SCANNING MICROSCOPY USING ONE OR MORE FRESNEL ZONE PLATES - Microscopy methods and apparatus in which one or more microfabricated optical elements (e.g., one or more Fresnel zone plates) operate as one or an array of objective lenses. A single object or a plurality of objects may be scanned in parallel. A single, low-numerical-aperture relay optic can be used with the one or more optical elements eliminating the need for one or more confocal pinhole apertures. When an array of optical elements is used, hundreds to thousands of objects can be imaged or inspected simultaneously onto a two-dimensional imaging device, such as a CCD array. The microfabricated optical elements can be readily configured for imaging with a solid immersion medium. Imaging resolutions on the order of one wavelength of the illumination source, and less, can be achieved. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120122889 | SMALL MOLECULE INHIBITORS OF NECROPTOSIS - The invention features a series of heterocyclic derivatives that inhibit tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) induced necroptosis. The heterocyclic compounds of the invention are described by Formulas (I)-(VIII) and by Compounds (I)-(I), (13)-(26), (27)-(33), (48)-(57), and (58)-(70). These necrostatins are shown to inhibit TNF-α induced necroptosis in FADD-deficient variant of human Jurkat T cells. The invention further features pharmaceutical compositions featuring necrostatins. The compounds and compositions of the invention may also be used to treat disorders where necroptosis is likely to play a substantial role. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120122218 | Harnessing Cell Dynamics to Engineer Materials - The invention features synthetic materials and methods for inducing cell behavior. Matrix materials induce cell differentiation and cell manipulation based on mechanical and physical characteristics of the materials rather than chemical characteristics. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120121539 | Programming Of Cells for Tolerogenic Therapies - Biomaterial systems, e.g., gel scaffolds, are used in vivo to recruit immune cells and promote their activation towards a non-inflammatory phenotype, thereby leading suppression of inflammation. The compositions and methods are useful to reduce the severity of autoimmunity, chronic inflammation, allergy, and periodontal disease. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120121481 | SCALE-UP OF FLOW-FOCUSING MICROFLUIDIC DEVICES - Parallel uses of microfluidic methods and devices for focusing and/or forming discontinuous sections of similar or dissimilar size in a fluid are described. In some aspects, the present invention relates generally to flow-focusing-type technology, and also to microfluidics, and more particularly parallel use of microfluidic systems arranged to control a dispersed phase within a dispersant, and the size, and size distribution, of a dispersed phase in a multi-phase fluid system, and systems for delivery of fluid components to multiple such devices. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120119738 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR SAMPLE TEMPERATURE CONTROL IN NMR SPECTROMETERS - Described are methods and apparatus, referred to as “temperature-lock,” which can control and stabilize the sample temperature in an NMR spectrometer, in some instances with a precision and an accuracy of below about | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120115915 | N,N'-DIARYLUREA COMPOUNDS AND N,N'-DIARYLTHIOUREA COMPOUNDS AS INHIBITORS OF TRANSLATION INITIATION - Compositions and methods for inhibiting translation initiation are provided. Compositions, methods and kits for treating (1) cellular proliferative disorders, (2) non-proliferative, degenerative disorders, (3) viral infections, and/or (4) disorders associated with viral infections, using N,N′-diarylureas and/or N,N′-diarylthiourea compounds are described. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120109563 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR QUANTIFYING A BEST MATCH BETWEEN SERIES OF TIME UNCERTAIN MEASUREMENTS - The best match of two time-uncertain series is quantified with a degree of confidence by selecting one of the time series and repeatedly computing a maximum covariance between the selected time series and a series of random records with the same distribution and expected autocorrelation as the non-selected time series. The resulting distribution of maximum covariances can be used to determine a degree of confidence by determining the percentage of those computed maxima which lie below the maximum covariance associated with the best match. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120108605 | O-GLCNAC TRANSFERASE INHIBITORS AND USES THEREOF - The present invention provides inhibitors of O-GIcNAc transferase. Typically, the inhibitors are quinolinone-6-sulfonamides. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions thereof and methods for using the same in diabetes and complications thereof, neurodegenerative diseases, cancers, autoimmune diseases, and inflammatory diseases. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120108075 | Gas-Phase Functionalization of Surfaces of Microelectronic Structures - There are provided methods for functionalizing a planar surface of a microelectronic structure, by exposing the surface to at least one vapor including at least one functionalization species, such as NO | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120107601 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF TEMPLATING USING PARTICLES SUCH AS COLLOIDAL PARTICLES - The present invention generally relates to systems and methods for using particle templating, e.g., to produce composites, discrete particles, or the like. In some embodiments, the present invention generally relates to the production of particles using the interstitial spaces between templating elements in a template structure. For example, a plurality of templating elements, which can include colloidal particles, may be arranged to form a template structure. The interstices of the templating elements can provide regions in which a fluid may be introduced. The fluid may be hardened (e.g., solidified) in some cases, e.g., to form a composite comprising the templating elements and the interstitial segments. In certain embodiments, the template structure may then be broken down to release the hardened fluid, e.g., as a plurality of discrete particles. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120094862 | CLASS II HUMAN HISTONE DEACETYLASES, AND USES RELATED THERETO - The invention provides histone deacetylase class II nucleic acids and polypeptides, methods and reagents for their use, and related compounds including small molecule libraries containing class II histone deacetylase inhibitors. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120094382 | MOLECULAR DELIVERY WITH NANOWIRES - A molecular delivery system including a plurality of nanowires (e.g., Si NWs), each of the nanowires having a surface layer formed of a silicon-containing material and a covalently bound linker (e.g., silane linker) attached to the surface layer and optionally including a substrate to which the nanowires are adhered or a molecule to be delivered attached to the linker. Also disclosed is a method of delivering into a cell an exogenous molecule. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120089030 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CHARACTERIZATION OF ORAL, SYSTEMIC AND MUCOSAL TISSUE UTILIZING RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY - A method and system for characterizing tissue includes a probe connected to a red LASER source and a Raman spectroscope. The probe includes at least excitation fiber and one or more emission fibers that connect the probe with the LASER source and the Raman spectroscope. The excitation fiber is connected to the red LASER source and terminates in the first end of the probe adjacent the tip of the probe. The emission fibers are connected to the Raman spectroscope and terminate in the first end of the probe adjacent the tip of the probe. In one embodiment, the excitation fiber extends through the central portion of the probe and one or more emission fibers are arranged around the excitation fiber. The tip of the probe is intended to come in contact with the tissue to be examined. The tip includes a central opening to allow red LASER radiation to project out of the end of the red excitation fiber on to the tissue and to permit Raman spectra to enter the emission fiber(s) and travel to the Raman spectroscope. The tip is constructed to have a predefined focal length to position the first end of the probe a predefined distance from the surface of the tissue being examined. The tip can be removable and tips having different focal lengths can be used to accommodate different types of tissues and examinations. A detector can convert the Raman spectra into signals and data for analysis by a computer system. The Raman spectra for tissue in a predefined location can be profiled such that the system can distinguish between healthy and diseased tissue. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120088300 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR PROMOTING THE GENERATION OF DEFINITIVE ENDODERM - Certain embodiments disclosed herein are directed to a method of producing endoderm cells, such as definitive endoderm cells by exposing stem cells such as embryonic stem cells or induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells to an effective amount of at least one compound described herein to differentiate the stem cells into the endoderm cells such as definitive endoderm cells. Differentated endoderm cells produced by the methods disclosed herein can be differentiated into pancreatic epithelium, and other endoderm derivatives such as thymus, liver, stomach, intestine and lung. Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method of producing pancreatic progenitor cells, such as Pdx1-positive pancreatic progenitor cells by exposing endoderm cells, such as definitive endoderm cells to an effective amount of at least one compound described herein to differentiate the definitive endoderm cells into Pdx1-positive pancreatic progenitor cells. Kits and compositions comprising Pdx1-positive pancreatic progenitor produced using the methods are also described. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120088251 | MASS SPECTROMETRIC METHODS AND PRODUCTS - The invention involves assays, diagnostics, kits, and assay components for mass spectrometry and other methods to determine levels of glycated CD59 in subjects. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120087973 | siRNA MICROBICIDES FOR PREVENTING AND TREATING DISEASES - The invention provides a microbicidal composition comprising at least one siRNA. The siRNA is an RNA duplex made of one or two molecules. A portion of the siRNA is identical to a target sequence in an essential gene of a virus. The virus may be a herpesvirus, for example, HSV-1 or HSV-2. Preferably, the herpesvirus is HSV-2. The microbicidal composition further comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Also included in the invention are methods to prevent and treat viral infections by administration of the microbicidal composition. Preferably, the microbicidal composition is administered transmucosally. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120080360 | MANIPULATION OF PARTICLES IN CHANNELS - Systems and methods for the manipulation of particles within channels such as microfluidic channels are provided. In one set of embodiments, magnets are positioned around a channel. As a fluid containing magnetic and non-magnetic particles flows through the channel, the magnetic field created by the magnets can be used to transport the magnetic and/or non-magnetic particles to desired locations within the channel, which may useful in some cases for causing some separation of the particles. For example, the magnetic field may be used to transport magnetic or non-magnetic particles from a core fluid to a surrounding sheath fluid. In some cases, the magnetic field is used to transport non-magnetic particles to a small volume within the channel (e.g., a single-file row within the channel). The systems and methods described herein may find application in a variety of fields including, for example, continuous sorting of cells, removal of targeted cells from a stream of blood, or the arrangement of non-magnetic particles in channels for analysis. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120077759 | 3-3-Di-Substituted-Oxindoles as Inhibitors of Translation Initiation - Compositions and methods for inhibiting translation using 3-(5-tert-Butyl-2-Hydroxy-phenyl)-3-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-indol-2-one and/or its derivatives are provided. Compositions, methods and kits for treating (1) cellular proliferative disorders, (2) non-proliferative, degenerative disorders, (3) viral infections, and/or (4) disorders associated with viral infections, using 3-(5-tert-butyl-2-hydroxy-phenyl)-3-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-indol-2-one and/or its derivatives are described. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120077705 | Methods for Identifying Autophagy Inducing Compounds - This invention pertains to screening methods for identifying autophagy inducing compounds. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120058521 | ENZYMATIC OLIGONUCLEOTIDE PRE-ADENYLATION - Methods and compositions for making and using pre-adenylated oligonucleotide sequences are provided. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120058486 | GENETIC RISK ASSESSMENT TECHNOLOGY FOR EPITHELIAL CANCER INVOLVING GENE-ENVIRONMENT INTERACTION BETWEEN ERCC5 AND TOBACCO USE - Methods and compositions for assessing ERCC5 gene expression in view of certain environmental exposures and determining the risk of an individual for developing one or more epithelial cancers are provided. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120058133 | INHIBITION OF TRNA SYNTHETASES AND THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS THEREOF - The present invention provides novel methods for modulating Th 17-mediated immune responses using aminoacyl tRNA synthetase inhibitors. Inhibition of aminoacyl tRNA synthetase inhibitors activates an amino acid starvation response (AAR) and can produce beneficial therapeutic effects. In some embodiments, aminoacyl tRNA synthetase inhibitors are used to treat disorders such as autoimmune diseases, graft rejection, infections, fibrosis, and inflammatory diseases. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120046282 | METHODS AND COMPOUNDS FOR ANTIMICROBIAL INTERVENTION - The present invention provides Wall Teichoic Acid biosynthesis inhibitors such as compound 1835F03 (targocil) and related synthetic analogs. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions thereof and methods for treating bacterial infection and the suppression of growth of bacterial cells by administering a Wall Teichoic Acid biosynthesis inhibitor. The invention is particularly useful for the treatment of Methicillin-resistant | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120040846 | Methods of Detecting Diseases or Conditions Using Phagocytic Cells - This invention provides methods of using phagocytic cells in the diagnosis, prognosis, or monitoring of diseases or conditions. The invention also provides methods of using phagocytic cells to identify markers of diseases or conditions. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120039909 | EPIGENETIC MECHANISMS RE-ESTABLISH ACCESS TO LONG-TERM MEMORY AFTER NEURONAL LOSS - The invention relates to methods and products for enhancing and improving recovery of lost memories. In particular the methods are accomplished through the increase of histone acetylation. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120035531 | ON-DEMAND AND REVERSIBLE DRUG RELEASE BY EXTERNAL CUE - The invention provides a method to release drugs from a polymer matrix upon demand without degrading the matrix. By applying ultrasound to a self-healable polymer matrix in physiological environment, compounds of both low-molecular and high-molecular weights encapsulated in the matrix are delivered at controlled rates, while the integrity and stiffness of the matrix are unaffected. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120033823 | NANO-OTOLOGIC PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT FOR IMPACT NOISE TOXICITY AND/OR BLAST OVERPRESSURE EXPOSURE - An apparatus for preventing hearing loss having a body made of a soft compliant material having first and second ends and a channel extending therethrough, an acoustically limp material adjacent one of the ends of the body with the acoustically limp material having a hole therein aligned with the channel extending through the body, and a component film, disc or other structure covering or sealing the opening in the acoustically limp material. The film or disc may be formed of a high-strength polymer material and may be less than 10 micrometers in thickness. Rather than having a single channel extending through the body, a plurality of channels may extend therethrough and a plurality of corresponding holes may be provided in the acoustically limp material. The film, disc or other structure covers or seals the plurality of holes in the acoustically limp material. The film, disc or other structure may be attached in such a fashion as to behave like a flap whose operation is to close in response to high energy sound waves. The flap is pressed shut from the high intensity shock wave itself. The body may cylindrical in shape or may have another shape to fit snugly in a human ear canal. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120033697 | WAVELENGTH BEAM COMBINING OF QUANTUM CASCADE LASER ARRAYS - A laser source based on a quantum cascade laser array (QCL), wherein the outputs of at least two elements in the array are collimated and overlapped in the far field using an external diffraction grating and a transform lens. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031830 | Transporting and Treating Water - Water can be transported and/or treated using a system or container in which a collapsible framework is attached to a membrane. A collapsible water container defining a volume for receiving, transporting, and delivering water can include: a membrane of material substantially impermeable to water, the membrane having a substantially cylindrical expanded configuration with a central axis and substantially contracted configuration; wherein the membrane configured to rotatably expand about the axis when water is placed within the volume defined by the collapsible water container and rotatably contract about the axis when water is removed from the volume defined by the collapsible water container. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120029416 | POROUS ELECTROACTIVE HYDROGELS AND USES THEREOF - The present invention provides porous electroactive hydrogels, the deformation angle of which is controlled by electroactuation, and methods for preparing and using such hydrogels. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029199 | SYNTHESIS OF ENONE INTERMEDIATE - The tetracycline class of antibiotics has played a major role in the treatment of infectious diseases for the past 50 years. However, the increased use of the tetracyclines in human and veterinary medicine has led to resistance among many organisms previously susceptible to tetracycline antibiotics. The recent development of a modular synthesis of tetracycline analogs through a chiral enone intermediate has allowed for the efficient synthesis of novel tetracycline analogs never prepared before. The present invention provides a more efficient route for preparing the enone intermediate. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029065 | COMPOSITIONS FOR TREATING OR PREVENTING OBESITY AND INSULIN RESISTANCE DISORDERS - Provided herein are methods and compositions for modulating the activity or level of a sirtuin, thereby treating or preventing obesity or an insulin resistance disorder, such as diabetes in a subject. Exemplary methods comprise contacting a cell with a sirtuin activating compound or an inhibitory compound to thereby increase or decrease fat accumulation, respectively. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120028837 | RAPID SCREEN FOR REPRODUCTIVE TOXICANTS - Disclosed herein are methods to assess the biological safety of an agent. The method involves contacting one or more test agents to a culture of | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120028478 | VAPOR DEPOSITION OF METAL OXIDES, SILICATES AND PHOSPHATES, AND SILICON DIOXIDE - Metal silicates or phosphates are deposited on a heated substrate by the reaction of vapors of alkoxysilanols or alkylphosphates along with reactive metal amides, alkyls or alkoxides. For example, vapors of tris(tert-butoxy)silanol react with vapors of tetrakis(ethylmethylamido)hafnium to deposit hafnium silicate on surfaces heated to 300° C. The product film has a very uniform stoichiometry throughout the reactor. Similarly, vapors of diisopropylphosphate react with vapors of lithium bis(ethyldimethylsilyl)amide to deposit lithium phosphate films on substrates heated to 250° C. Supplying the vapors in alternating pulses produces these same compositions with a very uniform distribution of thickness and excellent step coverage. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120028290 | Compositions and Methods for Labeling and Imaging Phospholipids - The present invention provides a method to label phospholipids in vivo based on the metabolic incorporation of an alkynyl- or azido-labeled metabolic precursor into phospholipids. The resulting phospholipids have alkynyl or azido moieties, which, upon reaction with a labeled azide or alkyne, respectively, form labeled compounds that can be visualized using optical or electron microscopy with high sensitivity and spatial resolution in cells or tissue. The present method provides a valuable tool for imaging phospholipid synthesis, turnover and subcellular localization in cultured cells as well as in animals. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120027808 | NICOTINE IMMUNONANOTHERAPEUTICS - The present invention provides compositions and systems for delivery of nanocarriers to cells of the immune system. The invention provides nanocarriers capable of stimulating an immune response in T cells and/or in B cells. The invention provides nanocarriers that comprise an immunofeature surface having a plurality of nicotine moieties. The invention provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising nanocarriers. The present invention provides methods of designing, manufacturing, and using nanocarriers and pharmaceutical compositions thereof. For example, the present invention describes nanocarriers capable of eliciting an immune response and the production of anti-nicotine antibodies. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120024364 | SILICON-BASED VISIBLE AND NEAR-INFRARED OPTOELECTRIC DEVICES - In one aspect, the present invention provides a silicon photodetector having a surface layer that is doped with sulfur inclusions with an average concentration in a range of about 0.5 atom percent to about 1.5 atom percent. The surface layer forms a diode junction with an underlying portion of the substrate. A plurality of electrical contacts allow application of a reverse bias voltage to the junction in order to facilitate generation of an electrical signal, e.g., a photocurrent, in response to irradiation of the surface layer. The photodetector exhibits a responsivity greater than about 1 A/W for incident wavelengths in a range of about 250 nm to about 1050 nm, and a responsivity greater than about 0.1 A/W for longer wavelengths, e.g., up to about 3.5 microns. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120022013 | METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR EXTENDING THE LIFE SPAN AND INCREASING THE STRESS RESISTANCE OF CELLS AND ORGANISMS - The invention provides methods and compositions for modulating the life span of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells and for protecting cells against certain stresses, e.g., heatshock. One method comprises modulating the flux of the NAD+ salvage pathway in the cell, e.g., by modulating the level or activity of one or more proteins selected from the group consisting of NPT1, PNC1, NMA1 and NMA2. Another method comprises modulating the level of nicotinamide in the cell. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120021983 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR DIAGNOSIS AND PROGNOSIS OF CANCER AND PROGRESSION, AND FOR SCREENING ANTI-CANCER AGENTS - MicroRNA (miRNA) profiling of cells showed unique miRNA signatures for each of three Akt isoforms. Among differentially regulated miRNA species, the miR-200 family was downregulated in Akt2-expressing cells. Akt1 knockdown inhibited expression of miR-200 and promoted TGFβ-induced epithelial-mesenchymal-transition (EMT) and a stem cell like phenotype. Carcinomas developing in MMTV-cErb2/Akt1 | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120021924 | DETECTION AND MODULATION OF CYTOCHROME C ACETYLATION - The invention relates to detection and modulation of cytochrome c acetylation. The invention has diagnostic and therapeutic applications for neurodegenerative disorders and cancer. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120021479 | Systems of Hydrogen Production in Bacteria - This invention relates to engineered bacterial systems such as engineered cyanobacterial systems and to methods of using these bacterial systems to generate hydrogen. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120015822 | PARTICLE-ASSISTED NUCLEIC ACID SEQUENCING - This invention generally relates to particle-assisted nucleic acid sequencing. In some embodiments, sequencing may be performed in a microfluidic device, which can offer desirable properties, for example, minimal use of reagents, facile scale-up, and/or high throughput. In one embodiment, a target nucleic acid may be exposed to particles having nucleic acid probes. By determining the binding of the particles to the target nucleic acid, the sequence of the target nucleic acid (or at least a portion of the target nucleic acid) can be determined. The target nucleic acid may be encapsulated within a fluidic droplet with the particles having nucleic acid probes, in certain instances. In some cases, the sequence of the target nucleic acid may be determined, based on binding of the particles, using sequencing by hybridization (SBH) algorithms or other known techniques. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120015382 | DROPLET-BASED SELECTION - The present invention generally relates to fluidic droplets, and techniques for screening or sorting such fluidic droplets. In some embodiments, the fluidic droplets may contain cells (e.g., hybridoma cells) that can secrete various species, such as antibodies, for example. In one aspect, a plurality of fluidic droplets containing cells is screened to determine proteins, antibodies, polypeptides, peptides, nucleic acids, or the like. For example, cells able to secrete species such as antibodies may be selected according to certain embodiments of the invention. Examples of such cells include, for instance, immortal cells such as hybridomas, or non-immortal cells such as B-cells. For instance, blood cells may be encapsulated within a plurality of fluidic droplets, and the cells able to produce antibodies may be determined. In some cases, expression or secretion levels may be determined using signaling entities, for example, determinable microparticles present within the fluidic droplet. Other aspects of the invention relate to kits involving such fluidic droplets, methods of promoting the making or use of such fluidic droplets, and the like. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120010178 | METHODS AND COMPOUNDS FOR TREATMENT OF NEURODEGENERATIVE DISORDERS - Methods, compounds and compositions for promoting motor neuron survival and the treatment of a neurodegenerative disorders such as Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) are described herein. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120009589 | SUB-DIFFRACTION IMAGE RESOLUTION AND OTHER IMAGING TECHNIQUES - The present invention generally relates to sub-diffraction limit image resolution and other imaging techniques. In one aspect, the invention is directed to determining and/or imaging light from two or more entities separated by a distance less than the diffraction limit of the incident light. For example, the entities may be separated by a distance of less than about 1000 nm, or less than about 300 nm for visible light. In one set of embodiments, the entities may be selectively activatable, i.e., one entity can be activated to produce light, without activating other entities. A first entity may be activated and determined (e.g., by determining light emitted by the entity), then a second entity may be activated and determined. The entities may be immobilized relative to each other and/or to a common entity. The emitted light may be used to determine the positions of the first and second entities, for example, using Gaussian fitting or other mathematical techniques, and in some cases, with sub-diffraction limit resolution. The methods may thus be used, for example, to determine the locations of two or more entities immobilized relative to a common entity, for example, a surface, or a biological entity such as DNA, a protein, a cell, a tissue, etc. The entities may also be determined with respect to time, for example, to determine a time-varying reaction. Other aspects of the invention relate to systems for sub-diffraction limit image resolution, computer programs and techniques for sub-diffraction limit image resolution, methods for promoting sub-diffraction limit image resolution, methods for producing photoswitchable entities, and the like. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120009504 | ELECTRODES FOR FUEL CELLS - A method comprises creating an electrode by depositing alternating first and second layers on a substrate, and using the electrode to make a solid oxide fuel cell. The first layer comprises a metal, and the second layer comprises a non-metal, for example a ceramic material. The substrate may be moved between a first region containing the metal and substantially free of the non-metal, and a second region containing the non-metal and substantially free of the metal. The composition of the metal and/or the non-metal may be varied along the thickness of the layers. The deposited layers may be heated. A fuel cell may have a fuel cell electrode that comprises a substrate, and alternating first and second layers deposited on the substrate, where the first layer includes a metal and the second layer includes a non-metal. The fuel cell may be a solid oxide fuel cell. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120003754 | METHODS, PRODUCTS AND TREATMENTS FOR DIABETES - The invention involves assays, diagnostics, kits, and assay components for determining levels of K41-glycated CD59 in subjects. Treatments for subjects based upon levels of K41-glycated CD59 also are provided. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120001284 | SILICON NITRIDE LIGHT PIPES FOR IMAGE SENSORS - Various embodiments for etching of silicon nitride (Si | 01-05-2012 |
| 20110319493 | HISTONE DEACETYLASES, AND USES RELATED THERETO - The present invention concerns the discovery that proteins encoded by a family of genes, termed here HDx-related genes, which are involved in the control of chromatin structure and, thus in transcription and translation. The present invention makes available compositions and methods that can be utilized, for example to control cell proliferation and differentiation in vitro and in vivo. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110319352 | Compounds That Bind Oxysterol Binding Proteins, and Methods of Use Thereof - The invention relates in part to the discovery that certain CRAMs, such as schweinfurthin A, target OSBPs (a family of oxysterol binding proteins). Because OSBPs have been shown to be integral to atherosclerosis and Alzheimer's disease (AD), one aspect of the invention relates to the use of CRAMs, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, biologically active metabolite, solvate, hydrate, prodrug, enantiomer or stereoisomer thereof, in the treatment and/or prevention of atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. Another aspect of the invention relates to novel derivatives of CRAMs, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, biologically active metabolite, solvate, hydrate, prodrug, enantiomer or stereoisomer thereof, for the treatment and/or prevention of atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. Another aspect of the invention relates to the use of an immobilized CRAMs, such as OSW-I, to aid in screening of compounds to identify additional OSBP binders. Other aspects of the invention relate to the use of CRAMs to treat cancer, such as p21-deficient cancers. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110319286 | SYSTEM FOR SCREENING AGONISTS/ANTAGONISTS OF CELLULAR SIGNALING PATHWAYS - The present invention identifies a method for investigating the response of a cell membrane-associated protein in a living cell to a drug by labeling the protein with a visual marker, and also selectively labeling the membrane portion of the protein with another visual marker, such that upon exposure of the cell to a stimulus, the translocation of the cell membrane-associated protein may be observed directly. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110318424 | METHODS FOR PROLONGING VIABILITY OF CONE CELLS USING MODULATORS OF THE MAMMALIAN TARGET OF RAPAMYCINE (mTOR) - The present invention is directed to the use of modulators of the mammalian target of rapamycine (mTOR) pathway, glucose and/or glucose enhancers for treating retinal disorders and, in particular, for prolonging the viability of cone cells. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110318267 | PH-RESPONSIVE NANOSTRUCTURES - The present invention relates to compositions comprising stimuli-responsive materials which can be used for delivery of agents. Materials are provided that can respond to changes in a surrounding environment, including changes in ion concentration. For example, one or more properties of the material may be affected by a change in pH and/or a change in the concentration of an ion. Such properties may include, for example, a dimension of the material (e.g., volume), the permeability of the material, and the like. In cases where the material comprises a therapeutic or diagnostic agent, the material may undergo a change in the rate of release of the agent upon exposure to certain conditions. The invention may also provide the use of said compositions for the manufacture of a medicament for delivering a therapeutic or diagnostic agent, in some cases, with enhanced selectivity and sensitivity. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110315962 | NANOSENSORS - Electrical devices comprised of nanowires are described, along with methods of their manufacture and use. The nanowires can be nanotubes and nanowires. The surface of the nanowires may be selectively functionalized Nanodetector devices are described. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110315898 | Plasmonic Polarizer - A radiation-emitting device (e.g., a laser) includes an active region configured to generate a radiation emission linearly polarized along a first polarization direction and a device facet covered by an insulating layer and a metal layer on the insulating layer. The metal layer defines an aperture through which the radiation emission from the active region can be transmitted and coupled into surface plasmons on the outer side of the metal layer. The long axis of the aperture is non-orthogonal to the first polarization direction, and a sequential series of features are defined in or on the device facet or in the metal layer and spaced apart from the aperture, wherein the series of features are configured to manipulate the surface plasmons and to scatter surface plasmons into the far field with a second polarization direction distinct from the first polarization direction. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110313045 | HISTONE DEACETYLASES, AND USES RELATED THERETO - The present invention concerns the discovery that proteins encoded by a family of genes, termed here HDx-related genes, which are involved in the control of chromatin structure and, thus in transcription and translation. The present invention makes available compositions and methods that can be utilized, for example to control cell proliferation and differentiation in vitro and in vivo. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110312507 | REACTION DISCOVERY SYSTEM - A novel reaction discovery system that does not depend on DNA duplex formation is provided. The advantages of this system include exploring reactions conditions not possible where DNA hybridization is required. For example, the inventive reaction discovery system allows for reaction conditions using organic solvents, higher temperatures, and water-insoluble reagents, catalysts, and ligands. The invention also provides single-stranded oligonucleotide templates with substrate pairs covalently attached and methods of screening for reaction conditions that result in a direct covalent bond between the substrates. Kits are also provided for practicing this novel reaction discovery system. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110312080 | POROUS FILMS BY A TEMPLATING CO-ASSEMBLY PROCESS - A method of making a composite includes providing a particle suspension comprising colloidal particles ( | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110310915 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR SINGLE-MODE SELECTION IN QUANTUM CASCADE LASERS - Methods and apparatus for improved single-mode selection in a quantum cascade laser. In one example, a distributed feedback grating incorporates both index-coupling and loss-coupling components. The loss-coupling component facilitates selection of one mode from two possible emission modes by periodically incorporating a thin layer of “lossy” semiconductor material on top of the active region to introduce a sufficiently large loss difference between the two modes. The lossy layer is doped to a level sufficient to induce considerable free-carrier absorption losses for one of the two modes while allowing sufficient gain for the other of the two modes. In alternative implementations, the highly-doped layer may be replaced by other low-dimensional structures such as quantum wells, quantum wires, and quantum dots with significant engineered intraband absorption to selectively increase the free-carrier absorption losses for one of multiple possible modes so as to facilitate single-mode operation. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110309265 | DIAMOND NANOWIRES - In a general aspect, a system includes a plurality of diamond nanowires disposed on the surface of a diamond substrate, at least some of the nanowires including a color center. The system also includes a light source configured to illuminate at least one of the plurality of nanowires with excitation light at a wavelength corresponding to an excitation wavelength of the color center included in the illuminated nanowire; and an optical receiver configured to receive a fluorescence emitted from the color center included in the illuminated nanowire in response to the excitation light. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110309237 | LIGHT ABSORPTION AND FILTERING PROPERTIES OF VERTICALLY ORIENTED SEMICONDUCTOR NANO WIRES - A nanowire array is described herein. The nanowire array comprises a substrate and a plurality of nanowires extending essentially vertically from the substrate; wherein: each of the nanowires has uniform chemical along its entire length; a refractive index of the nanowires is at least two times of a refractive index of a cladding of the nanowires. This nanowire array is useful as a photodetector, a submicron color filter, a static color display or a dynamic color display. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110309233 | SELECTED SPECTRAL ABSORPTION OF NANOWIRES - Methods, apparatuses, systems, and devices relating to fabricating one or more nanowires are disclosed. One method for fabricating a nanowire includes: selecting a particular wavelength of electromagnetic radiation for absorption for a nanowire; determining a diameter corresponding to the particular wavelength; and fabricating a nanowire having the determined diameter. According to another embodiment, one or more nanowires may be fabricated in an array, each having the same or different determined diameters. An image sensor and method of imaging using such an array are also disclosed. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110305761 | POLYMERSOMES, COLLOIDOSOMES, LIPOSOMES, AND OTHER SPECIES ASSOCIATED WITH FLUIDIC DROPLETS - The present invention relates generally to vesicles such as liposomes, colloidosomes, and polymersomes, as well as techniques for making and using such vesicles. In some cases, the vesicles may be at least partially biocompatible and/or biodegradable. The vesicles may be formed, according to one aspect, by forming a multiple emulsion comprising a first droplet surrounded by a second droplet, which in turn is surrounded by a third fluid, where the second droplet comprises lipids and/or polymers, and removing fluid from the second droplet, e.g., through evaporation or diffusion, until a vesicle is formed. In certain aspects, the size of the vesicle may be controlled, e.g., through osmolarity, and in certain embodiments, the vesicle may be ruptured through a change in osmolarity. In some cases, the vesicle may contain other species, such as fluorescent molecules, microparticles, pharmaceutical agents, etc., which may be released upon rupture. Yet other aspects of the invention are generally directed to methods of making such vesicles, kits involving such vesicles, or the like. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110305670 | NUCLEIC ACID ENCODING FUSION POLYPEPTIDES THAT PREVENT OR INHIBIT HIV INFECTION - The present invention is directed to an isolated nucleic acid molecule encoding a fusion polypeptide the expression of which in cells is capable of blocking the entry of HIV-1 into host cells and methods of using the nucleic acid molecule. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110300154 | TREATMENT OF AIRWAY HYPERREACTIVITY - The invention provides strategies for treating and preventing airway hyperreactivity and non-allergic asthma comprising antagonizing IL-17 activity and/or production by iNKT cells. Provided herein is a method of diagnosing non-allergic asthma and airway hyperreactivity comprising neutrophils quantification in sputum. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110295752 | PRACTICAL SECRECY-PRESERVING, VERIFIABLY CORRECT AND TRUSTWORTHY AUCTIONS - A system and method for conducting verifiably correct auctions that preserves the secrecy of the bids while providing for verifiable correctness and trustworthiness of the auction is disclosed. Some of the elements of the method and apparatus are that the auction operator accepts all bids submitted and follows the published rules of the auction. In one embodiment, the bids are maintained secret from the auctioneer and all bidders until the auction closes and no bidder is able to change or repudiate her bid. In another embodiment, the auction operator computes the auction results and publishes proofs of the results' correctness. In yet another embodiment, any party can check these proofs of correctness via publicly verifiable to computations on encrypted bids. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295736 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RELATIVISTIC STATISTICAL SECURITIES TRADING - A system comprising a processor configured to calculate a location for a server along a communication link between a first trading center and a second trading center based at least in part on a property of the communication link. The server may be configured to send first trade instructions for trading a first financial instrument to the first trading center and send second trade instructions for trading a second financial instrument to the second trading center. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110287026 | SIRT4 AND USES THEREOF - Provided herein are SIRT4 compositions and methods of use thereof. The invention provides functional information for use in the identification and design of compounds that modulate SIRT4 enzyme activity (e.g., inhibition of fatty acid oxidation, ADP ribosylation, and/or downregulation of glutamate dehydrogenase), and to the compounds identified by such methods and the research, diagnostic and therapeutic uses of such compounds. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110286959 | Copolymers for suppression of autoimmune diseases, and methods of use - Random three- and four-amino acid copolymers having lengths of 14-, 35- and 50-amino acid residues are provided. Fifty-mers of FEAK were effective inhibitors of MBP 85-99- or proteolipid protein (PLP) 40-60-specific HLA-DR-2-restricted T cell clones. These copolymers efficiently suppressed the mouse disease EAE, which was induced in a susceptible SJL/J (H-2 | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110281764 | SCREENING ASSAYS AND METHODS - Screening assays and methods of performing such assays are provided. In certain examples, the assays and methods may be designed to determine whether or not two or more species can associate with each other. In some examples, the assays and methods may be used to determine if a known antigen binds to an unknown monoclonal antibody. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110281745 | SCREENING ASSAYS AND METHODS - Screening assays and methods of performing such assays are provided. In certain examples, the assays and methods may be designed to determine whether or not two or more species can associate with each other. In some examples, the assays and methods may be used to determine if a known antigen binds to an unknown monoclonal antibody. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110277930 | OPTICAL MODULATOR/DETECTOR BASED ON RECONFIGURABLE DIFFRACTION GRATING - A system is provided for positioning separate portions of a sample in elongate, parallel channels of a sample chamber and for irradiating a sample in the chamber to create a diffraction pattern where the sample and chamber differ in refractive index. The system also can measure absorption of electromagnetic radiation by a sample in the chamber, and can measure the absorption simultaneously with measurement of diffraction by the sample. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110275063 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF DROPLET-BASED SELECTION - The present invention generally relates to fluidic droplets, and techniques for screening or sorting such fluidic droplets. In some embodiments, the fluidic droplets may contain cells (e.g., hybridoma cells) that can secrete various species, such as antibodies, for example. In one aspect, a plurality of fluidic droplets containing cells is screened to determine proteins, antibodies, polypeptides, peptides, nucleic acids, or the like. For example, cells able to secrete species such as antibodies may be se according to certain embodiments of the invention. Examples of such cells include, for instance, immortal cells such as hybridomas, or non-immortal cells such as B-cells. For instance, blood cells may be encapsulated within a plurality of fluidic droplets, and the cells able to produce antibodies may be determined. In some cases, expression or secretion levels may be determined using signaling entities, for example, determinable microparticles present within the fluidic droplet. Other aspects of the invention relate to kits involving such fluidic droplets, methods of promoting the making or use of such fluidic droplets, and the like. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110274658 | CHIMERIC ACTIVATORS: QUANTITATIVELY DESIGNED PROTEIN THERAPEUTICS AND USES THEREOF - Aspects of the invention provide methods for harnessing the potential of proteins that occur naturally (e.g., in humans) and that have serious but finite toxicity. Aspects of the invention relate to a quantitative systems-biological and structural approach to design a class Mof chimeric proteins that avoid the toxicity of protein drugs while retaining their desired activities. In particular, chimeric proteins containing a variant form of a natural protein fused to a targeting moiety may be administered to a subject to target a signal (e.g., induction of apoptosis) to particular cells without having a generalized toxic effect | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110269161 | Methods, Compositions and Kits for High Throughput Kinase Activity Screening Using Mass Spectrometry and Stable Isotopes - A mass-spectrometry-based method and substrates are provided herein for large scale kinome activity profiling directly from crude lysates using 90 chemically synthesized peptide substrates with amino acid sequences derived from known phosphoproteins. Quantification of peptide phosphorylation rates was achieved via the use of stable isotope labeled synthetic peptides. Half of these peptides immediately or rapidly showed robust and site-specific phosphorylation after incubation with serum-starved HEK293 cell lysate. A method and substrates for obtaining 90 simultaneous activity measurements in a single-reaction format were developed and validated. Activating kinase pathways through insulin or EGF stimulation reproducibly altered the phosphorylation rates of peptides derived from known pathway protein substrates. While examining cell-cycle-specific activities with the panel, a peptide derived from phosphoinositide 3-kinase regulatory subunit demonstrated mitotic and tyrosine-specific phosphorylation, which was confirmed to be a Src kinase site in vivo. The kinome activity profiling strategy was successfully applied with lysates of each of: cells manipulated by various combination of mitogen stimulation, pharmacological perturbation and siRNA-directed kinase knockdown; seven different breast cancer cell lines treated with gefitinib; and each of normal and cancerous tissue samples from renal cell carcinoma patients. This method concurrently measures multiple peptide phosphorylation rates to provide a diagnostic fingerprint pattern for activated kinases, protein phosphatases, modulators of these enzymes, and pathways (kinome) from as little starting material as a few cells. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110269142 | Clinical Method for Individualized Epithelial Cancer Screening Involving ERCC5 and IGF2R Genetic Testing and Gene-Environment Interactions - A system for determining individualized risk of developing aerodigestive cancers or cancers of the liver is described. Methods and compositions for assessing ERCC5 and/or IGF2R genetic variation and expression and their effects in view of certain environmental exposures in determining the risk of an individual for developing one or more epithelial cancers are provided. The system includes a kit used to collect a DNA sample from an individual and data related to the individual's medical and occupational history, use of tobacco and alcohol products as well as the individual's environment. An algorithm may be applied to transform the DNA sample and data into an individualized risk score, accounting for inter-individual variation in genetic profile and environmental/lifestyle exposures. The risk score may be indicative of the individual's risk of having or developing epithelial cancer, and the cancers prognosis. The risk score may be distributed to one or more of the individual, physician and other personnel. Test results and risk score have novel clinical utilities; diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment programs and activities may be facilitated by one or more of the kit and the risk score. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110268804 | TARGETING OF ANTIGEN PRESENTING CELLS WITH IMMUNONANOTHERAPEUTICS - The present invention provides compositions and systems for delivery of nanocarriers to cells of the immune system. The invention provides nanocarriers capable of stimulating an immune response in T cells and/or in B cells. The invention provides nanocarriers that comprise an immunofeature surface. The nanocarriers are capable of targeting antigen presenting cells when administered to a subject. The invention provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising nanocarriers. The present invention provides methods of designing, manufacturing, and using nanocarriers and pharmaceutical compositions thereof. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110268705 | HDAC4, HDAC5, HDAC6, HDAC7, AND HIF1 ALPHA MODULATION OF RETINAL CELL SURVIVAL - Methods for inhibiting retinal cell death by altering expression of one or more of HDAC4, HDAC5, HDAC6, HDAC7, and HIF1α in a retinal cell are provided. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110263532 | HALOFUGINONE ANALOGS FOR INHIBITION OF TRNA SYNTHETASES AND USES THEREOF - The present invention provides novel analogs and derivatives of halofuginone. The invention also provides pharmaceutical and cosmetic compositions thereof and methods for using halofuginone analogs in treating chronic inflammatory diseases, autoimmune diseases, dry eye syndrome, fibrosis, scar formation, angiogenesis, viral infections, ischemic damage, transplant and implant rejection, neurodegenerative diseases, and cosmetic applications. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110262459 | Neamine Compositions and Methods of Use Thereof - Provided herein are compositions containing neamine, or a composition containing an agent that possesses one or more activities of neamine, and the research, diagnostic and therapeutic uses of such compounds, such as for the treatment of cancer. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110257043 | ULTRA HIGH-THROUGHPUT OPTI-NANOPORE DNA READOUT PLATFORM - Described herein are methods for analyzing polymer molecules. These methods are employed for the high throughput readout of DNA and RNA molecules with single molecule sensitivity. The method of the present invention comprises (1) the electrically controlled unzipping of DNA (or RNA) double strands, and (2) the readout of the molecule's identity (or code) using one or more molecule signal detection. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110256526 | DETECTION OF HUMAN SOMATIC CELL REPROGRAMMING - The methods and kits described herein are based, in part, to the discovery phenotype representing a fully-reprogrammed iPS cell and several reprogramming intermediates. The methods and kits described herein permit identification of fully-reprogrammed iPS cells and further permits one of skill in the art to monitor the emergence of iPS cells during the reprogramming process. The methods/kits can also be performed using real time using live cell imaging. Also described herein are methods for screening candidate reprogramming agents by monitoring the emergence of fully-reprogrammed iPS cells in the presence and absence of such an agent. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110254164 | SELF-ALIGNED BARRIER LAYERS FOR INTERCONNECTS - An interconnect structure for integrated circuits incorporates manganese silicate and manganese silicon nitride layers that completely surrounds copper wires in integrated circuits and methods for making the same are provided. The manganese silicate forms a barrier against copper diffusing out of the wires, thereby protecting the insulator from premature breakdown, and protecting transistors from degradation by copper. The manganese silicate and manganese silicon nitride also promote strong adhesion between copper and insulators, thus preserving the mechanical integrity of the devices during manufacture and use. The strong adhesion at the copper-manganese silicate and manganese silicon nitride interfaces also protect against failure by electromigration of the copper during use of the devices. The manganese-containing sheath also protects the copper from corrosion by oxygen or water from its surroundings. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110243958 | ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS THAT TARGET BACTERIAL VKOR - Aspects of the invention relate to a method for inhibiting the growth of a microbe that expresses bacterial vitamin K epoxide reductase (bVKOR). The method involves contacting the bacterial cell with an effective amount of an agent that inhibits bVKOR. Agents include a drug, ligand or portion thereof, protein, polypeptide, small organic molecule, antisense nucleic acid, RNAi, or antibody. Examples of useful agents are a phenylpropanoid, a modified phenylpropanoid, a coumarin or modified coumarin. A particularly useful agents is warfarin or a variant thereof or ferulenol or a variant thereof. The microbe is any microbe carrying a bVKOR gene, such as | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110229545 | MELT EMULSIFICATION - The present invention generally relates to colloidal systems, which may include colloidal particles and/or other types of particles. One aspect of the invention is generally directed to a system comprising fluidic droplets that can be at least partially solidified, e.g., to form colloidal particles. In some embodiments, particles comprising an at least partially solid outer phase encapsulating an inner phase are formed. The inner phase may be any phase, e.g., a solid, a liquid, or a gas. In some cases, solidifying at least a portion of the outer phase of the droplets to form particles may increase the stability of the particles and/or the colloidal system containing the particles. In one set of embodiments, melting or liquefying the outer phase of the particles (for example, by heating the particle to a temperature above a threshold temperature) can allow release of an agent contained within the inner phase, and/or allow the inner phase to coalesce with a phase external to the particles. The melting temperature of the outer phase can be controlled in some embodiments such that the outer phase will melt above a predetermined temperature. In some embodiments, the particles may be formed to be essentially free of an auxiliary stabilizing agent. In some embodiments, an agent may be encapsulated within a particle with relatively high efficiency. Other aspects of the invention are generally directed to methods of making and using such colloidal systems, e.g., containing such particles, kits involving such colloidal systems, or the like. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110224245 | Treatment Of Neurological Disorders Using Huperzine - Methods and compositions containing huperzine for direct delivery to central nervous system (CNS) tissue are used to alleviate pain and for the prevention and/or treatment of seizures and epilepsy. The invention is also directed to methods and compositions for using huperzine for the prevention and/or treatment of neuropathic pain and orthostatic hypotension. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110223158 | ASSOCIATION OF LEVELS OF HDL-CHOLESTEROL APOLIPOPROTEIN CIII WITH THE RISK OF CORONARY HEART DISEASE AND CARDIOVASCULAR EVENTS - Presented herein are methods of diagnosing, assessing, and treating an individual at increased risk if developing coronary heart disease or cardiovascular event, based on the individual's level of high density lipoprotein cholesterol apoCIII (HDL-C apoCIII). | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110222564 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR GENERATING TERAHERTZ RADIATION - Apparatus and methods for generating radiation via difference frequency generation (DFG). In one exemplary implementation, a quantum cascade laser (QCL) has a significant second-order nonlinear susceptibility (χ | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110218354 | Photoautotrophic Adipogenesis Technology (Phat) - The invention provides an isolated photosynthetic microorganism with an altered lipid profile compared to its wild type or naturally occurring counterpart. The bacterium has been genetically modified such that the lipids produced are amenable to producing biodiesel fuel. Accordingly, such an isolated cyanobacterium contains a fatty acid, the length of which is less than C 16. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110218154 | HISTONE DEACETYLASES, AND USES RELATED THERETO - The present invention concerns the discovery that proteins encoded by a family of genes, termed here HDx-related genes, which are involved in the control of chromatin structure and, thus in transcription and translation. The present invention makes available compositions and methods that can be utilized, for example to control cell proliferation and differentiation in vitro and in vivo. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110218123 | CREATION OF LIBRARIES OF DROPLETS AND RELATED SPECIES - The present invention is generally related to systems and methods for producing a plurality of droplets. The droplets may contain varying species, e.g., for use as a library. In some cases, the fluidic droplets may be rigidified to form rigidified droplets (e.g., gel droplets). In certain embodiments, the droplets may undergo a phase change (e.g., from rigidified droplets to fluidized droplets), as discussed more herein. In some cases, a species may be added internally to a droplet by exposing the droplet to a fluid comprising a plurality of species. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110213032 | FATTY ACID C16: 1N7-PALMITOLEATE A LIPOKINE AND BIOMARKER FOR METABOLIC STATUS - The present invention provides for a novel lipokine, C16:1n7-palmitoleate, which also serves as a biomarker for metabolic status. More specifically, a low concentration of C16:1n7-palmitoleate in the free acid component of the serum indicates a risk of metabolic disease, and that de novo lipogenesis should be stimulated. Additionally, administering C16:1n7-palmitoleate to a subject (via nutraceutical or other means), positively impacts lipid metabolism. | 09-01-2011 |
| 20110197899 | NANO-OTOLOGIC PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT FOR IMPACT NOISE TOXICITY AND/OR BLAST OVERPRESSURE EXPOSURE - An apparatus for preventing hearing loss having a body made of a soft compliant material having first and second ends and a channel extending therethrough, an acoustically limp material adjacent one of the ends of the body with the acoustically limp material having a hole therein aligned with the channel extending through the body, and a component film, disc or other structure covering or sealing the opening in the acoustically limp material. The film or disc may be formed of a high-strength polymer material and may be less than 10 micrometers in thickness. Rather than having a single channel extending through the body, a plurality of channels may extend therethrough and a plurality of corresponding holes may be provided in the acoustically limp material. The film, disc or other structure covers or seals the plurality of holes in the acoustically limp material. The film, disc or other structure may be attached in such a fashion as to behave like a flap whose operation is to close in response to high energy sound waves. The flap is pressed shut from the high intensity shock wave itself. The body may cylindrical in shape or may have another shape to fit snugly in a human ear canal. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110193987 | METHODS, APPARATUS AND SYSTEMS FOR DETERMINING POWER SPECTRAL DENSITY OF A SIGNAL VIA MODULATION OF THE SIGNAL - Methods, apparatus and systems for determining a power spectral density (PSD) of a signal, in which modulation of the signal is employed to facilitate determination of one or more PSD values over a wide range of frequencies. In some implementations, the signal may represent a wide-sense stationary random process. In one example, the signal is measured/sampled during a plurality of measurement windows, during which an intensity of the signal is modulated at one or more modulation frequencies. A variance of a set of quantities determined from the signal samples is calculated and used to determine respective values of the power spectral density (PSD) for the signal at the one or more modulation frequencies. The one or more modulation frequencies may be chosen in excess of the Nyquist frequency of the sampling process, such that the signal may be characterized for one or more frequencies above the Nyquist limit. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110192233 | VERSATILE HIGH ASPECT RATIO ACTUATABLE NANOSTRUCTURED MATERIALS THROUGH REPLICATION - A method of forming a nanostructured surface, the method comprising including providing an original nanostructured surface having an array of high aspect ratio structures formed on a planar substrate; forming a negative replica mold of the original nanostructured surface, wherein the negative replica mold comprises a flexible material; deforming the negative replica mold; and using the deformed negative replica mold to form a deformed replica of the original nanostructured surface, wherein the deforming step is performed at least one of before, during, or after introducing a material for forming the deformed replica into the negative replica mold. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110190323 | CORTISTATIN ANALOGUES AND SYNTHESES THEREOF - The present invention relates to analogs of cortistatin A, J, K, and L, having the general formula: I and salts thereof, wherein R | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110190146 | MICROFLUIDIC DEVICE FOR STORAGE AND WELL-DEFINED ARRANGEMENT OF DROPLETS - The present invention relates to systems and methods for the arrangement of droplets in pre-determined locations. Many applications require the collection of time- resolved data. Examples include the screening of cells based on their growth characteristics or the observation of enzymatic reactions. The present invention provides a tool and related techniques which addresses this need, and which can be used in many other situations. The invention provides, in one aspect, a tool that allows for stable storage and indexing of individual droplets. The invention can interface not only with microfluidic/microscale equipment, but with macroscopic equipment to allow for the easy injection of liquids and extraction of sample droplets, etc. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110189786 | COTTON THREAD AS A LOW-COST MULTI-ASSAY DIAGNOSTIC PLATFORM - Hydrophilic threads as platforms for inexpensive, low volume, portable diagnostic systems, and methods of making the same are described. A diagnostic system includes a hydrophilic loading thread having an inlet zone at a proximal end; a testing zone at a distal end; and an intermediate zone located between the inlet zone and the testing zone, wherein the testing zone does not directly contact the inlet zone. In another aspect, a diagnostic system includes (i) a hydrophilic loading thread that includes an inlet zone at a proximal end and an intermediate zone at a distal end; and (ii) one or more additional hydrophilic threads that contact the intermediate zone of the loading thread. A method of detecting the presence or absence of an analyte in a fluid sample includes applying the sample to an inlet zone of a diagnostic system that includes a hydrophilic loading thread with an inlet zone at a proximal end; an intermediate zone; and a testing zone at a distal end; wherein the testing zone does not directly contact the inlet zone. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110189719 | METHODS OF GENERATING PATTERNED SOFT SUBSTRATES AND USES THEREOF - The present invention provides methods of generating and devices of patterned soft substrates, on which cells may be seeded, as well as methods of using these substrates. Devices containing these patterned soft substrates are also provided. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110182867 | MODULATION OF BCL11A FOR TREATMENT OF HEMOGLOBINOPATHIES - The invention relates to methods and uses of modulating fetal hemoglobin expression (HbF) in a hematopoietic progenitor cells via inhibitors of BCL11A expression or activity, such as RNAi and antibodies. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110181345 | PHASE TRANSITION DEVICES AND SMART CAPACITIVE DEVICES - Phase transition devices may include a functional layer made of functional material that can undergo a change in conductance in response to an external stimulus such as an electric or magnetic or optical field, or heat. The functional material transitions between a conducting state and a non-conducting state, upon application of the external stimulus. A capacitive device may include a functional layer between a top electrode and a bottom electrode, and a dielectric layer between the functional layer and the top electrode. A three terminal phase transition switch may include a functional layer, for example a conductive oxide channel, deposited between a source and a drain, and a gate dielectric layer and a gate electrode deposited on the functional layer. An array of phase transition switches and/or capacitive devices may be formed on a substrate, which may be made of inexpensive flexible material. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110177495 | CONTINUOUS DIRECTED EVOLUTION OF PROTEINS AND NUCLEIC ACIDS - The present invention discloses generalizable methods of evolving nucleic acids and proteins utilizing continuous directed evolution. The invention discloses methods of passing a nucleic acid from cell to cell in a desired function-dependent manner. The linkage of the desired function and passage of the nucleic acid from cell to cell allows for continuous selection and mutation of the nucleic acid. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110175047 | ELECTRIC FIELD INDUCED PHASE TRANSITIONS AND DYNAMIC TUNING OF THE PROPERTIES OF OXIDE STRUCTURES - Phase transitions (such as metal-insulator transitions) are induced in oxide structures (such as vanadium oxide thin films) by applying an electric field. The electric field-induced phase transitions are achieved in VO | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110174619 | Nonoscopic wired-based devices and arrays - Electrical devices comprised of nanoscopic wires are described, along with methods of their manufacture and use. The nanoscopic wires can be nanotubes, preferably single-walled carbon nanotubes. They can be arranged in crossbar arrays using chemically patterned surfaces for direction, via chemical vapor deposition. Chemical vapor deposition also can be used to form nanotubes in arrays in the presence of directing electric fields, optionally in combination with self-assembled monolayer patterns. Bistable devices are described. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110172303 | DEACETYLASE INHIBITORS AND USES THEREOF - The present invention provides novel compounds of formula (I) and pharmaceutical compositions thereof. The inventive compounds are useful as deacetylase inhibitors (e.g., histone deacetylase inhibitors) and may be useful in the treatment of proliferative diseases such as cancer. In particular, the inventive compounds are HDAC6 inhibitors. The invention also provide synthetic methods for preparing the inventive compounds. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110166170 | SYNTHESIS OF AVRAINVILLAMIDE, STEPHACIDIN B, AND ANALOGUES THEREOF - The syntheses of the natural products, avrainvillamide and stephacidin B, are provided. The α,β-unsaturated nitrone functionality of avrainvillamide and its 3-alkylidene-3H-indole 1-oxide core is shown to covalently and reversibly bond to heteroatom-based nucleophiles. This capability may allow these molecules to bind active site nucleophiles and may provide the basis for designing potent and selective enzyme inhibitors. Both avrainvillamide and its dimer stephacidin B have been reported to exhibit antiproliferative activity, and avrainvillamide has been reported to exhibit antimicrobial activity against multi-drug resistant bacteria. Avrainvillamide has been found to target cytoskeleton-linking membrane protein (CLIMP-63) thereby preventing cells from undergoing mitosis. The invention provides syntheses of these natural products as well as analogs of these natural products and their functional cores. The compounds of the invention may be used in the treatment of diseases such as cancer, autoimmune diseases, and bacterial infection. | 07-07-2011 |
| 20110155574 | Molecular Characterization with Molecular Speed Control - Provided is a first reservoir for containing a liquid solution including a molecule to be characterized and a second reservoir for containing a liquid solution. A solid state support includes a nanopore having a molecular inlet providing a fluidic connection to the first reservoir and a molecular outlet providing a fluidic connection to the second reservoir. An electrical connection is disposed between the first and second reservoirs to apply a molecular translocation voltage across the nanopore between the molecular inlet entrance and outlet exit. At least one electrical probe is disposed at the nanopore to apply a first voltage bias with respect to translocation voltage to slow progression of a molecule through the nanopore between the molecular inlet and outlet and to apply a second voltage bias with respect to translocation voltage to cause the molecule to proceed through the nanopore between the molecular inlet and outlet. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110151615 | BICYCLIC GUANIDINES, METAL COMPLEXES THEREOF AND THEIR USE IN VAPOR DEPOSITION - Bicyclic guanidine compounds are described. Metal bicyclic guanidinate and its use in vapor deposition processes to deposit a metal-containing thin film are also described. Methods of making alkaline earth metal N,N′dialkylacetamidinates or bicyclic guanidinates including dissolution of alkaline earth metal into liquid ammonia followed by addition of a solution of an amidine or guanidine ligand in the free base from are provided. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110151578 | VALVES AND OTHER FLOW CONTROL IN FLUIDIC SYSTEMS INCLUDING MICROFLUIDIC SYSTEMS - Articles and methods for controlling flow in fluidic Systems, especially in microfluidic Systems, are provided. A microfluidic System includes a configuration such that the actuation of a single valve can allow the switching of fluids from a first fluid path (e.g., a first channel section) to a second fluid path (e.g., a second channel section). This may be achieved by incorporating a valve ( | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110144306 | LIGATION OF STAPLED POLYPEPTIDES - The present invention provides technology for making large (e.g., greater than 50 amino acids), semi-synthetic, stapled or stitched proteins. The method essentially involves ligating a synthetically produced stapled or stitched peptide to a larger protein. Modified version of IL-13 and MYC are provided as illustrative examples. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110142799 | MODULATION OF NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASE BY MODULATING XBP-1 ACTIVITY - The invention provides methods for treating and preventing a neurodegenerative disease associated with aberrant protein aggregation by modulating the expression and/or activity of XBP-1, IRE-1 alpha, and/or EDEM. The present invention also pertains to methods for identifying compounds that modulate the expression and/or activity of XBP-1, 1RE-1 alpha, and/or EDEM. The present invention further provides methods for determining whether a subject is at risk of developing or has developed a neurodegenerative disease associated with aberrant protein aggregation. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110135551 | CARBON DIOXIDE CAPTURE AND RELATED PROCESSES - Processes for capturing carbon dioxide are described. The carbon dioxide may be captured from the atmosphere and/or from the waste stream of a carbon dioxide point source (e.g., power plants, chemical plants, natural gas fields, oil fields, industrial sites, etc.). The processes can involve capturing carbon dioxide using alkaline solutions (e.g., NaOH). In some processes, the carbon dioxide may react with the alkaline solution to form a product (e.g., NaHCO | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110124580 | REGULATION OF LUNG TISSUE BY HEDGEHOG-LIKE POLYPEPTIDES, AND FORMULATIONS AND USES RELATED THERETO - The present application relates to a method for modulating the growth state of an lung tissue, or a cell thereof, e.g., by ectopically contacting the tissue, in vitro or in vivo, with a hedgehog therapeutic, a ptc therapeutic, or an FGF-10 therapeutic in an amount effective to alter the rate (promote or inhibit) of proliferation of cells in the lung tissue, e.g., relative to the absence of administration of the hedgehog therapeutic or ptc therapeutic. The subject method can be used, for example, to modulate the growth state of epithelial and/or mesenchymal cells of a lung tissue, such as may be useful as part of a regimen for prevention of a disease state, or in the treatment of an existing disease state or other damage to the lung tissue. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110123835 | METHANE-POWERED MICROBIAL FUEL CELLS - The present disclosure generally relates to fuel cells and, in particular, to microbial fuel cells. In one aspect, the fuel cell can use microorganisms (microbes) to oxidize fuel, especially methane. For instance, the fuel cell may use one or more types of methanotrophs, such as | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110123485 | VIRAL VECTORS FOR DELIVERING VACCINES FOR HIV AND OTHER INFECTIOUS DISEASES - The invention relates in some aspects to recombinant gamma herpes viruses that expresses immunodeficiency virus antigens. Some aspects of the invention relate to vaccine compositions and formulations comprising recombinant gamma herpes viruses that expresses immunodeficiency virus antigens. In some aspects, the invention relates to methods for preventing or treating an immunodeficiency virus associated disease. In some aspects, the invention relates to methods for preventing or treating AIDS. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110123413 | SURFACES, INCLUDING MICROFLUIDIC CHANNELS, WITH CONTROLLED WETTING PROPERTIES - The present invention generally relates to coating materials, including photoactive coating materials. In some aspects of the invention, a sol-gel is provided that can be formed as a coating on a microfluidic channel. One or more portions of the sol-gel can be reacted to alter its hydrophobicity, in some cases. For instance, in one set of embodiments, a portion of the sol-gel may be exposed to light, such as ultraviolet light, which can be used to induce a chemical reaction in the sol-gel that alters its hydrophobicity. In one set of embodiments, the sol-gel can include a photoinitiator, that upon exposure to light, produces radicals. Optionally, the photoinitiator may be conjugated to a silane or other material within the sol-gel. The radicals so produced may be used to cause a polymerization reaction to occur on the surface of the sol-gel, thus altering the hydrophobicity of the surface. In some cases, various portions may be reacted or left unreacted, e.g., by controlling exposure to light (for instance, using a mask). Such treated surfaces within a microfluidic channel may be useful in a wide variety of applications, for instance, in the creation of emulsions such as multiple emulsions. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110123398 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL MICROFLUIDIC DEVICES - Three-dimensional microfluidic devices including by a plurality of patterned porous, hydrophilic layers and a fluid-impermeable layer disposed between every two adjacent patterned porous, hydrophilic layers are described. Each patterned porous, hydrophilic layer has a fluid-impermeable barrier which substantially permeates the thickness of the porous, hydrophilic layer and defines boundaries of one or more hydrophilic regions within the patterned porous, hydrophilic layer. The fluid-impermeable layer has openings which are aligned with at least part of the hydrophilic region within at least one adjacent patterned porous, hydrophilic layer. Microfluidic assay device, microfluidic mixer, microfluidic flow control device are also described. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110120855 | VANADIUM OXIDE THIN FILMS - Thin films of vanadium oxide having exceptionally high metal-insulator transition properties are synthesized by RF sputtering. An Al2O3 substrate is placed in a sputtering chamber and heated to a temperature up to about 550 degrees Celsius. Ar and O | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110118332 | VIRAL MICRORNA - The present invention relates, in general, to micro RN As and. in particular, to viral microRNAs expressed by Herpes Simplex Vims 1 (HSV-1) or Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV-2), to agents that inhibit such microRNAs and to methods of treatment based on the use of such agents. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110115041 | NANOWIRE CORE-SHELL LIGHT PIPES - Embodiments relate to methods and devices comprising an optical pipe comprising a core and a cladding. An embodiment includes obtaining a substrate comprising a photodiode and a first protective layer, the first protective layer having a predetermined thickness and growing a nanowire having a length L on the photodiode, wherein the length L is greater than the predetermined thickness of the protective layer. Another embodiment includes (1) obtaining a substrate comprising a photodiode and a protective layer, (2) fabricating a nanowire light pipe on the photodiode, the light pipe comprising a nanowire core and a cladding; and (3) coating the substrate and the nanowire light pipe with a protective coating. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110112040 | SUPERCHARGED PROTEINS FOR CELL PENETRATION - Compositions, systems and related methods for delivering a supercharged protein or a complex of a supercharged protein and therapeutic agent (e g, nucleic acid, peptide, small molecule) to cells are disclosed. Superpositively charged proteins may be associated with nucleic acids (which typically have a net negative charge) via electrostatic interactions. The systems and methods may involve altering the primary sequence of a protein in order to “supercharge” the protein (e g, to generate a superpositively-charged protein). The compositions may be used to treat proliferative diseases, infectious diseases, cardiovascular diseases, inborn errors in metabolism, genetic diseases, etc. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110111517 | PAPER-BASED MICROFLUIDIC SYSTEMS - Paper-based microfluidic systems and methods of making the same are described. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110110892 | VECTORS FOR DELIVERING DISEASE NEUTRALIZING AGENTS - The invention relates in some aspects to recombinant herpes viruses and their use for expressing and delivering one or more disease-neutralizing agents to a subject to prevent or treat a disease in the subject. Some aspects of the invention relate to virus compositions and formulations comprising recombinant herpes viruses (e.g., recombinant gamma herpes viruses) that expresses one or more disease-neutralizing agents such as antibodies or other agents that can interfere with disease infection or progression. In some aspects, the invention relates to methods for preventing or treating an immunodeficiency virus associated disease. In some aspects, the invention relates to methods for preventing or treating AIDS. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110105515 | TARGETING THE ONCOPROTEIN NUCLEOPHOSMIN - (+)-Avrainvillamide, a naturally occurring alkaloid with antiproliferative activity, is shown to bind to the oncoprotein nucleophosmin. Nucleophosmin is known to regulate the tumor suppressor protein p53 and is overexpressed in many different human tumors. The invention provides methods of modulating nucleophosmin and p53 using (+)-avrainvillamide and analogues thereof. These compounds may provide leads for the development of novel anti-cancer therapies that target nucleophosmin. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110105360 | PAPER-BASED CELLULAR ARRAYS - Three-dimensional cellular arrays, methods of making three-dimensional cellular arrays, and methods of identifying agents using the arrays are disclosed. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110104787 | Fusion Peptides That Bind to and Modify Target Nucleic Acid Sequences - Novel methods and compositions for altering target nucleic acid (e.g., DNA e.g., genomic DNA) sequences are provided. Fusion proteins including one or more DNA binding domains and one or more DNA modifying domains are provided. Isolated polynucleotides encoding fusion proteins including one or more DNA binding domains and one or more DNA modifying domains are provided. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110089404 | Microfabrication of Carbon-based Devices Such as Gate-Controlled Graphene Devices - A graphene device includes a graphene layer and a back gate electrode connected to apply a global electrical bias to the graphene from a first surface of the graphene. At least two graphene device electrodes are each connected to a corresponding and distinct region of the graphene at a second graphene surface. A dielectric layer blanket-coats the second graphene surface and the device electrodes. At least one top gate electrode is disposed on the dielectric layer and extends over a distinct one of the device electrodes and at least a portion of a corresponding graphene region. Each top gate electrode is connected to apply an electrical charge carrier bias to the graphene region over which that top gate electrode extends to produce a selected charge carrier type in that graphene region. Such a carbon structure can be exposed to a beam of electrons to compensate for extrinsic doping of the carbon. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110082189 | USE OF COMPOUNDS ACTIVATING SIRT-3 FOR MIMICKING EXERCISE - The invention relates to modulation of SIRT3 activity levels. The invention has applications for regulating metabolism and mimicking caloric restriction or exercise in a muscle cell. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110078804 | Angiogenin and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis - Methods and compositions for treating neurodegenerative disorders are provided. Transgenic animal models of neurodegenerative disorders are provided. Knockout animal models of neurodegenerative disorders are also provided. Mutant angiogenin polypeptides are also provided. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110077172 | ASSEMBLY AND DEPOSITION OF MATERIALS USING A SUPERHYDROPHOBIC SURFACE STRUCTURE - Fluidics-induced localized deposition and assembly of materials using a superhydrophobic surface structure is described. A method of localized deposition of a material includes contacting a superhydrophobic substrate comprising raised surface structures with a non-wetting fluid comprising a material to be locally deposited or a precursor thereto, said surface and said fluid selected such that the fluid wets only an upper portion of the raised surface structure; and allowing the material to deposit at the tips of the surface structure. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110076288 | Compositions for and Methods of Identifying Antigens - Replicable libraries having discrete members in defined locations for screening for antigens to a pathogenic organism are provided. Also provided are methods for using such libraries as well as a specific antigen, CT788, which induces T-cell activation during a | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110070645 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR PROMOTING THE GENERATION OF PDX1+ PANCREATIC CELLS - Certain embodiments disclosed herein are directed to a method of producing pancreatic cells or pancreatic cell precursors by exposing human embryonic stem cells to an effective amount of at least one compound listed in Table I to differentiate the human embryonic stem cells into the pancreatic cells or the pancreatic cell precursors. Kits and pancreatic cell lines produced using the methods are also described. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110065907 | Methods and compositions for labeling nucleic acids - The present invention relates to methods for the labeling of nucleic acid polymers in vitro and in vivo. In particular, the methods include a [3+2] cycloaddition between a nucleotide analogue incorporated into a nucleic acid polymer and a reagent attached to a label. Such methods do not require fixation and denaturation and therefore can be applied to the labeling of nucleic acid polymers in living cells and in organisms. Also provided are methods for measuring cellular proliferation. In these methods, the amount of label incorporated into the DNA is measured as an indication of cellular proliferation. The methods of the invention can be used in a wide variety of applications including clinical diagnosis of diseases and disorders in which cellular proliferation is involved, toxicity assays, and as a tool for the study of chromosomes' ultrastructures. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110064700 | NEURAL STEM CELLS - The invention provides compositions and methods for obtaining neural stem cells from post-natal subjects and their use in treating neurological disorders. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110057654 | Systems And Methods For Design And Construction Of NMR Transceiver Circuits - The Rabi frequency of oscillation of the nuclear magnetization vector of a sample in an NMR system may be controlled by modifying only the duty cycle of RF pulses delivered to the sample, without modifying the amplitude of the RF pulses, until the energy delivered at the Larmor frequency is adjusted to a desired amount. An impedance matching network between an NMR transceiver and an NMR coil may perform both power matching and noise matching simultaneously. During a transmission mode, the impedance matching network is connected to a transmitter portion of the transceiver, and the impedance of the coil is matched to the driver resistance. During a receiver mode, the impedance matching network is disconnected from the transmitter portion so that the impedance matching network remains connected only to the receiver portion, and signal-to-noise ratio in received NMR signals is maximized. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110053177 | MASS SPECTROMETRIC METHODS AND PRODUCTS - The invention involves assays, diagnostics, kits, and assay components for mass spectrometry and other methods to determine levels of glycated CD59 in subjects. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110052669 | METHODS FOR MODULATING DE NOVO HEPATIC LIPOGENESIS BY MODULATING XBP-1 ACTIVITY - The invention provides methods and compositions for modulating the expression, processing, post-translational modification, stability and/or activity of XBP-1 protein, or a protein in a signal transduction pathway involving XBP-I to treat dyslipidemias and steatosis disorders. The present invention also pertains to methods for identifying compounds that modulate the expression, processing, post-translational modification, and/or activity of XBP-I protein or a molecule in a signal transduction pathway involving XBP-1. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110046367 | 3-3-DI-SUBSTITUTED-OXINDOLES AS INHIBITORS OF TRANSLATION INITIATION - Compositions and methods for inhibiting translation using 3-(5-tert-Butyl-2-Hydroxy-phenyl)-3-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-indol-2-one and/or its derivatives are provided. Compositions, methods and kits for treating (1) cellular proliferative disorders, (2) non-proliferative, degenerative disorders, (3) viral infections, and/or (4) disorders associated with viral infections, using 3-(5-tert-butyl-2-hydroxy-phenyl)-3-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-indol-2-one and/or its derivatives are described. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110045577 | Fabrication of conductive pathways, microcircuits and microstructures in microfluidic networks - Disclosed herein are a variety of microfluidic devices and solid, typically electrically conductive devices that can be formed using such devices as molds. In certain embodiments, the devices that are formed comprise conductive pathways formed by solidifying a liquid metal present in one or more microfluidic channels (such devices hereinafter referred to as “microsolidic” devices). In certain such devices, in which electrical connections can be formed and/or reformed between regions in a microfluidic structure; in some cases, the devices/circuits formed may be flexible and/or involve flexible electrical components. In certain embodiments, the solid metal wires/conductive pathways formed in microfluidic channel(s) may remain contained within the microfluidic structure. In certain such embodiments, the conductive pathways formed may be located in proximity to other microfluidic channel(s) of the structure that carry flowing fluid, such that the conductive pathway can create energy (e.g. electromagnetic and/or thermal energy) that interacts withy and/or affects the flowing fluid and/or a component contained therein or carried thereby. In other embodiments, a microsolidic structure may be removed from a microfluidic mold to form a stand-alone structure. In certain embodiments, the solid metal structures formed may interact with light energy incident upon a structure or may be used to fabricate a light-weight electrode. Another aspect of the invention relates to the formation of self-assembled structures that may comprise these electrically conductive pathways/connections. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110045079 | DRY POWDERS OF CELLULAR MATERIAL - Methods and compositions of spray drying cellular material are provided that allow preservation of the cellular material. In one aspect, the cellular material is spray dried with a quantity of excipient. In another aspect, the cellular material is spray dried using a cryoprotectant. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110043395 | DIGITAL BACKGROUND CALIBRATION IN PIPELINED ADCS - Digital background calibration in a pipelined ADC is performed by extracting a capacitor mismatch value Δ that represents a mismatch between a sampling capacitor C | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110042641 | BRANCHED NANOSCALE WIRES - The present invention generally relates to nanotechnology and, in particular, to branched nanoscale wires cases, the branched nanoscale wires may be produced using vapor-phase and/or solution-phase synthesis. Branched nanoscale wires may be grown by depositing nanoparticles onto a nanoscale wire, and segments or “branches” can then be grown from the nanoparticles. The nanoscale wire may be any nanoscale wire, for example, a semiconductor nanoscale wire, a nanoscale wire having a core and a shell. The segments may be of the same, or of different materials, than the nanoscale wire, for example, semiconductor/metal, semiconductor/semiconductor. The junction between the segment and the nanoscale wire, in some cases, is epitaxial. In one embodiment, the nanoparticles are adsorbed onto the nanoscale wire by immobilizing a positively-charged entity, such as polylysine, to the nanoscale wire, and exposing it to the nanoparticles. In another embodiment, nanoparticles are deposited onto a nanoscale wire by etching the nanoscale wire to produce an H-terminated surface, then exposing the surface to a solution comprising a metal ion, which be reduced by the surface to form nanoparticles. Segments or branches can then be grown from the deposited nanoparticles to the branched nanoscale wire. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110039304 | Methods to Generate Oligonucleotide Pools and Enrich Target Nucleic Acid Sequences - Methods and compositions for generating oligonucleotide pools are provided. Methods and compositions for enriching target nucleic acid sequences are also provided. | 02-17-2011 |
| 20110033839 | Methods of Detecting Signatures of Disease or Conditions in Bodily Fluids - Methods and compositions for diagnosing the presence of a cancer cell in an individual are provided. Methods and compositions for identifying a tumor-specific signature in an individual having cancer are also provided. Methods and compositions for diagnosing the presence of an infectious agent in an individual and/or for identifying an infectious agent-specific signature in an infected individual are provided. Methods and compositions for diagnosing the presence of a disease in an individual are also provided. Methods and compositions for identifying a disease-specific signature in an individual having the disease are also provided. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20110028753 | Stabilized Compounds Having Secondary Structure Motifs - The present invention provides novel stabilized crosslinked compounds having secondary structure motifs, libraries of these novel compounds, and methods for the synthesis of these compounds libraries thereof. The synthesis of these novel stabilized compounds involves (1) synthesizing a peptide from a selected number of natural or non-natural amino acids, wherein said peptide comprises at least two moieties capable of undergoing reaction to promote carbon-carbon bond formation; and (2) contacting said peptide with a reagent to generate at least one crosslinker and to effect stabilization of a secondary structure motif. The present invention, in a preferred embodiment, provides stabilized p53 donor helical peptides. Additionally, the present invention provides methods for disrupting the p53/MDM2 binding interaction comprising (1) providing a crosslinked stabilized α-helical structure; and (2) contacting said crosslinked stabilized α-helical structure with MDM2. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110014164 | EFFICIENT INDUCTION OF PLURIPOTENT STEM CELLS USING SMALL MOLECULE COMPOUNDS - The disclosure features a method of producing an induced pluripotent stem cell a somatic cell. The method includes contacting a somatic cell with a DNA methyl transferase inhibitor or a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, or a combination thereof, to produce a pluripotent stem cell. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110009593 | Polymeric Bioplastics - One aspect of the present invention relates to a polymeric material. The invention also relates to a method of making the aforementioned polymer comprising extracting a fungus, wherein the fungus is, for example, an endophytic fungus, such as CR873. The invention further relates to a bioplastic composition comprising the aforementioned polymer. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110009474 | SIRTUIN BASED METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR TREATING BETA-CATENIN-RELATED CONDITIONS - Provided herein are methods and compositions relating to sirtuin modulation of Wnt pathway signaling, including the use of sirtuin and sirtuin-modulating agents in the prevention and treatment of cancer and other diseases. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110009466 | METHODS OF INCREASING GENE EXPRESSION THROUGH RNA PROTECTION - This invention relates to the use of one or more RNA target protectors to inhibit the binding of an RNA, e.g., small RNA, to a target RNA (e.g., a target mRNA), thus increasing the stability of the target RNA and its function (e.g., increasing the gene expression of the gene corresponding to a target mRNA). An RNA target protector may be, for example, an oligonucleotide, e.g., a morpholino, or a small molecule. The invention further relates to the treatment of a human patient in need thereof with one or more RNA target protectors. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110003702 | Methods, systems, and kits for identification of osteoinductive peptides - Methods and systems for obtaining and identifying ligands that bind to cells and effect differentiation and/or support growth are provided herein. Several ligands were identified as proof of efficacy of the methods and systems, and amino acid sequences of compositions that effect differentiation of osteoblasts are thereby obtained. | 01-06-2011 |
| 20110003393 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR STUDYING INFLUENZA - The present invention generally relates to influenza and, in particular, to systems and methods for studying influenza viruses such as the influenza A virus. One aspect of the invention is generally directed towards systems and methods for determining the timescale dynamics of the tryptophan residue located in position 41 of the M2 proton channel of the influenza A virus, for instance, via nuclear magnetic resonance. This may be useful, for example, in determining whether a candidate drug is able to alter the dynamics of the tryptophan residue, and thus, whether the drug targets the M2 proton channel. | 01-06-2011 |
| 20110001117 | NANOSCALE WIRE-BASED MEMORY DEVICES - The present invention generally relates to nanotechnology and sub-microelectronic devices that can be used in circuitry, and, in particular, to nanoscale wires and other nanostructures able to encode data. One aspect of the present invention is directed to a device comprising an electrical crossbar array comprising at least two crossed wires at a cross point. In some cases, at least one of the crossed wires is a nanoscale wire, and in certain instances, at least one of the crossed wires is a nanoscale wire comprising a core and at least one shell surrounding the core. For instance, the core may comprise a crystal (e.g., crystalline silicon) and the shell may be at least partially amorphous (e.g., amorphous silicon). In certain embodiments, the cross point may exhibit intrinsic current rectification, or other electrical behaviors, and the cross point can be used as a memory device. For example, in one embodiment, the cross point may exhibit a first conductance at a positive voltage, and the cross point may exhibit a second conductance at a negative voltage. Accordingly, by applying suitable voltages to the cross point, data may be stored at the cross point. Other aspects of the present invention are directed to systems and methods for making or using such devices, kits involving such devices, or the like. | 01-06-2011 |
| 20100330644 | BOUNDARY CONDITIONS FOR THE ARRANGEMENT OF CELLS AND TISSUES - The present invention relates to the arrangement of one or more cells in a medium or on a substrate through the use of boundary conditions, which are changes in local environment compared to the medium or substrate alone or cause an alteration of cell response upon interaction of a cell with the boundary condition. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100327847 | High-Resolution Molecular Sensor - A solid state molecular sensor having an aperture extending through a thickness of a sensing region is configured with a sensing region thickness that corresponds to the characteristic extent of at least a component of a molecular species to be translocated through the aperture. A change in an electrical characteristic of the sensing region is measured during the molecular species translocation. The sensor can be configured as a field effect transistor molecular sensor. The sensing region can be a region of graphene including an aperture extending through a thickness of the graphene. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100323445 | METHODS, APPARATUS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRODUCTION, COLLECTION, HANDLING, AND IMAGING OF TISSUE SECTIONS - Methods, apparatus and systems for collecting thin tissue samples for imaging. Thin tissue sections may be cut from tissue samples using a microtome-quality knife. In one example, tissue samples are mounted to a substrate that is rotated such that thin tissue sections are acquired via lathing. Collection of thin tissue sections may be facilitated by a conveyor belt. Thin tissue sections may be mounted to a thin substrate (e.g., by adhering thin tissue sections to a thin substrate via a roller mechanism) that may be imaged, for example, by an electron beam (e.g., in an electron microscope). This tissue sections may be strengthened before cutting via a blockface thinfilm deposition technique and/or a blockface taping technique. An automated reel-to-reel imaging technique may be employed for collected/mounted tissue sections to facilitate random-access imaging of tissue sections and maintaining a comprehensive library including a large volume of samples. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100322864 | TELEMETRY THROUGH REMOTE DETECTION OF NMR-ACTIVE PARTICLES - Various methods of telemetry for nuclear magnetic resonance applications are described. NMR-active particles are introduced into a system which is to undergo an NMR measurement. In various embodiments, the NMR-active particles have a resonance peak in a spectral region which is substantially free from any NMR signal originating from material native to the system. In some embodiments, the NMR-active particles are chemically functionalized to target a constituent within the system. In certain applications, changes in the detected resonance peak can be used to quantify certain characteristics about the system, e.g., a concentration of an analyte, whether a targeted constituent is present within the system. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100320437 | Gas-phase functionalization of surfaces including carbon-based surfaces - The invention provides methods functionalizing a planar surface of a graphene layer, a graphite surface, or microelectronic structure. The graphene layer, graphite surface, or planar microelectronic structure surface is exposed to at least one vapor including at least one functionalization species that non-covalently bonds to the graphene layer, a graphite surface, or planar microelectronic surface while providing a functionalization layer of chemically functional groups, to produce a functionalized graphene layer, graphite surface, or planar microelectronic surface. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100316918 | NANO-SCALE GAS SEPARATION DEVICE UTILIZING THIN FILM STRUCTURES FOR HYDROGEN PRODUCTION - In various aspects, provided are substantially single phase ceramic membranes, gas separation devices based thereon, and methods of making the membranes. In various embodiments, the membranes and devices can be used for hydrogen production, such as in a fuel-cell. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100316679 | COMPOSITIONS FOR TREATING OR PREVENTING OBESITY AND INSULIN RESISTANCE DISORDERS - Provided herein are methods and compositions for modulating the activity or level of a sirtuin, thereby treating or preventing obesity or an insulin resistance disorder, such as diabetes in a subject. Exemplary methods comprise contacting a cell with a sirtuin activating compound or an inhibitory compound to thereby increase or decrease fat accumulation, respectively. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100316269 | SUB-DIFFRACTION LIMIT IMAGE RESOLUTION AND OTHER IMAGING TECHNIQUES - The present invention generally relates to sub-diffraction limit image resolution and other imaging techniques. In one aspect, the invention is directed to determining and/or imaging light from two or more entities separated by a distance less than the diffraction limit of the incident light. For example, the entities may be separated by a distance of less than about 1000 nm, or less than about 300 nm for visible light. In one set of embodiments, the entities may be selectively activatable, i.e., one entity can be activated to produce light, without activating other entities. A first entity may be activated and determined (e.g., by determining light emitted by the entity), then a second entity may be activated and determined. The entities may be immobilized relative to each other and/or to a common entity. The emitted light may be used to determine the positions of the first and second entities, for example, using Gaussian fitting or other mathematical techniques, and in some cases, with sub-diffraction limit resolution. The methods may thus be used, for example, to determine the locations of two or more entities immobilized relative to a common entity, for example, a surface, or a biological entity such as DNA, a protein, a cell, a tissue, etc. The entities may also be determined with respect to time, for example, to determine a time-varying reaction. Other aspects of the invention relate to systems for sub-diffraction limit image resolution, computer programs and techniques for sub-diffraction limit image resolution, methods for promoting sub-diffraction limit image resolution, methods for producing photoswitchable entities, and the like. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100315079 | ELECTRONIC SPIN BASED ENHANCEMENT OF MAGNETOMETER SENSITIVITY - A method is disclosed for increasing the sensitivity of a solid state electronic spin based magnetometer that makes use of individual electronic spins or ensembles of electronic spins in a solid-state lattice, for example NV centers in a diamond lattice. The electronic spins may be configured to undergo a Zeeman shift in energy level when photons of light are applied to the electronic spins followed by pulses of an RF field that is substantially transverse to the magnetic field being detected. The method may include coherently controlling the electronic spins by applying to the electronic spins a sequence of RF pulses that dynamically decouple the electronic spins from mutual spin-spin interactions and from interactions with the lattice. The sequence of RF pulses may be a Hahn spin-echo sequence, a Can Purcell Meiboom Gill sequence, or a MREV8 pulse sequence, by way of example. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100311105 | METHODS OF DELIVERY OF EXOGENOUS PROTEINS TO THE CYTOSOL AND USES THEREOF - The present invention is directed to a method for delivering exogenous proteins to the cytosol, by binding a target antigen (such as a protein) to a transport factor that contains a fragment of a bipartite protein exotoxin, but not the corresponding protective antigen. Preferably, the target antigen is fused to the transport factor. Preferred transport factors include the protective antigen binding domain of lethal factor (LFn) from | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100308813 | HIGH SENSITIVITY SOLID STATE MAGNETOMETER - A magnetometer for sensing a magnetic field may include a solid state electronic spin system, and a detector. The solid state electronic spin system may contain one or more electronic spins that are disposed within a solid state lattice, for example NV centers in diamond. The electronic spins may be configured to receive optical excitation radiation and to align with the magnetic field in response thereto. The electronic spins may be further induced to precess about the magnetic field to be sensed, in response to an external control such as an RF field, the frequency of the spin precession being linearly related to the magnetic field by the Zeeman shift of the electronic spin energy levels. The detector may be configured to detect output optical radiation from the electronic spin, so as to determine the Zeeman shift and thus the magnetic field. | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100304061 | FABRICATION OF HIGH ASPECT RATIO FEATURES IN A GLASS LAYER BY ETCHING - Methods, apparatuses, systems, and devices relating to the fabrication of features for semiconductor devices are disclosed. The features may include vias and pillars. In some implementations, the vias may define light pipes for semiconductor image sensor devices that serve to guide electromagnetic radiation directly down to photodiodes or other radiation detecting elements formed on an underlying silicon substrate. These structures significantly improve the light collection efficiency and reduce the scattering and crosstalk losses in the dielectric layer. An etch mask may be used to produce features through a subsequent etching process. More specifically, the etch mask defines sidewalls in the glass layer, provides excellent dry etch resistance, and enables easy lift-off of the etch mask from the glass layer. Two embodiments are disclosed herein: the first using amorphous silicon as the etch mask; and the second employing a photoresist as the etch mask. Both embodiments produce high aspect ratio features having generally vertical and smooth sidewalls. | 12-02-2010 |
| 20100303861 | Live Attenuated Vaccine Strain for Prevention of Tularemia - The invention provides live attenuated avirulent strains of | 12-02-2010 |
| 20100303119 | Microfluidic Lasers - The present invention generally relates to lasers comprising fluidic channels, such as microfluidic channels. In some instances, the channel contains two or more fluids. The fluids may remain non-mixed within the channel, for example, due to immiscibility and/or laminar flow within the channel. The fluids may be arranged in the channel such that light propagating in a first fluid is prevented by the second fluid from exiting the first fluid, for example, due to differences in the indexes of refraction (e.g., causing internal reflection of the fluid to occur). Thus, in one embodiment, a first fluid may be at least partially surrounded by a second fluid having a second index of refraction lower than the index of refraction of the first fluid. In some embodiments, the fluidic channel is used as a laser, for instance, a dye laser, i.e., a laser created by directing light at a dye to produce coherent light. The dye may be present in one or more fluids within the fluidic channel. The incident light (for example, created by another laser) may be directed at the channel from any angle. In some cases, laser light may be produced in a direction substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the channel. In some embodiments, the laser is free of mirrors, prisms, or gratings, or the laser may produce coherent light using a non-resonant photonic pathway. However, in other cases, mirrors, prisms, or gratings may be used to reflect light along the channel to enhance stimulated emission of coherent light. Another aspect of the invention includes optical diffractors, such as prisms or gratings, which can contain a fluid. The optical diffractors, in certain embodiments, are positioned to diffract light, such as coherent light, emanating from the fluidic channel. Still other aspects of the invention provide devices, kits, and methods of making and using such lasers. | 12-02-2010 |
| 20100297777 | SUB-DIFFRACTION LIMIT IMAGE RESOLUTION AND OTHER IMAGING TECHNIQUES - The present invention generally relates to sub-diffraction limit image resolution and other imaging techniques. In one aspect, the invention is directed to determining and/or imaging light from two or more entities separated by a distance less than the diffraction limit of the incident light. For example, the entities may be separated by a distance of less than about 1000 nm, or less than about 300 nm for visible light. In one set of embodiments, the entities may be selectively activatable, i.e., one entity can be activated to produce light, without activating other entities. A first entity may be activated and determined (e.g., by determining light emitted by the entity), then a second entity may be activated and determined The entities may be immobilized relative to each other and/or to a common entity. The emitted light may be used to determine the positions of the first and second entities, for example, using Gaussian fitting or other mathematical techniques, and in some cases, with sub-diffraction limit resolution. The methods may thus be used, for example, to determine the locations of two or more entities immobilized relative to a common entity, for example, a surface, or a biological entity such as DNA, a protein, a cell, a tissue, etc. The entities may also be determined with respect to time, for example, to determine a time-varying reaction. Other aspects of the invention relate to systems for sub-diffraction limit image resolution, computer programs and techniques for sub-diffraction limit image resolution, methods for promoting sub-diffraction limit image resolution, methods for producing photoswitchable entities, and the like. | 11-25-2010 |
| 20100295417 | Multi-Segmented Spine with Integrated Actuation - A multi-segmented spine includes a plurality of rigid segments joined with a flexible coupling and governed by a plurality of integrated actuators. Motion is generated in the multi-segmented spine via an intelligent activation sequence for the actuators, which can be in the form of shape memory alloys activated via resistance heating from electric current. | 11-25-2010 |
| 20100289189 | PRODUCTION OF FREE-STANDING SOLID STATE LAYERS BY THERMAL PROCESSING OF SUBSTRATES WITH A POLYMER - In a method for producing a free-standing solid state layer, a solid state material is provided having at least one surface available for layer formation thereon and a layer of polymer is formed on the available surface. The solid state material and polymer layer are then exposed to a change in local temperature from a first temperature that is no greater than about 300° C. to a second temperature below about room temperature to cause the solid state material to fracture along a plane at a depth in the material, to produce at least one free-standing solid state layer from the solid state material. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100288913 | OPTICAL TRAPPING METHODS AND APPARATUS EMPLOYING ONE OR MORE FRESNEL ZONE PLATES - Methods and apparatus ( | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100285606 | DENSITY-BASED METHODS FOR SEPARATION OF MATERIALS, MONITORING OF SOLID SUPPORTED REACTIONS AND MEASURING DENSITIES OF SMALL LIQUID VOLUMES AND SOLIDS - The ability to levitate, to separate, and to detect changes in density using diamagnetic particles suspended in solutions containing paramagnetic cations using an inhomogeneous magnetic field is described. The major advantages of this separation device are that: i) it is a simple apparatus that does not require electric power (a set of permanent magnets and gravity are sufficient for the diamagnetic separation and collection system to work); ii) it is compatible with simple optical detection (provided that transparent materials are used to fabricate the containers/channels where separation occurs; iii) it is simple to collect the separated particles for further processing; iv) it does not require magnetic labeling of the particles/materials; and v) it is small, portable. The method and kits provided provide for separation and collection of materials of different densities, diagnostics for detection of analytes of interest, monitoring of solid-supported chemical reactions and determination of densities of solid and liquid mixtures. | 11-11-2010 |
| 20100279310 | ASSAY DEVICE AND METHOD - An assay method is described, which comprises the steps of immobilizing a binding partner (e.g., an antigen or antibody) for an analyte to be detected (e.g., an antibody or antigen) on a portion of a surface of a microfluidic chamber; passing a fluid sample over the surface and allowing the analyte to bind to the binding partner; allowing a metal colloid, e.g., a gold-conjugated antibody, to associate with the bound analyte; flowing a metal solution, e.g., a silver solution, over the surface such as to form an opaque metallic layer; and detecting the presence of said metallic layer, e.g., by visual inspection or by measuring light transmission through the layer, conductivity or resistance of the layer, or metal concentration in the metal solution after flowing the metal solution over the surface. | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100273676 | HIGH THROUGHPUT SCREENS FOR SMALL-MOLECULE INHIBITORS OF THE NUCLEAR RECEPTOR-LIKE PATHWAY REGULATING MULTIDRUG RESISTANCE IN FUNGI - The present invention relates to the identification of molecular mechanisms associated with multidrug resistance (MDR) in fungal infections. More specifically, fungi harbor a nuclear receptor-like pathway controlling MDR, which represents a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of MDR in pathogenic fungi such as | 10-28-2010 |
| 20100273164 | Targeted and Whole-Genome Technologies to Profile DNA Cytosine Methylation - Methods and compositions for determining a methylated cytosine profile of a target nucleic acid sequence are provided. | 10-28-2010 |
| 20100260927 | Gas-Phase Functionalization of Carbon Nanotubes - In a method for functionalizing a carbon nanotube surface, the nanotube surface is exposed to at least one vapor including at least one functionalization species that non-covalently bonds to the nanotube surface, providing chemically functional groups at the nanotube surface, producing a functionalized nanotube surface. A functionalized nanotube surface can be exposed to at least one vapor stabilization species that reacts with the functionalization layer to form a stabilization layer that stabilizes the functionalization layer against desorption from the nanotube surface while providing chemically functional groups at the nanotube surface, producing a stabilized nanotube surface. The stabilized nanotube surface can be exposed to at least one material layer precursor species that deposits a material layer on the stabilized nanotube surface. | 10-14-2010 |
| 20100255556 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR MANIPULATION OF FLUIDIC SPECIES - The present disclosure relates generally to methods and apparatus for manipulating, detecting, imaging, and/or identifying particles, fluids, or other objects via electromagnetic fields, including methods and apparatus for identifying, sorting, splitting, coalescing, and/or reacting such particles, fluids, or other objects. Certain aspects of the invention are generally directe to methods and devices for producing electric or magnetic fields, e.g., from one or more field-generating components ( | 10-07-2010 |
| 20100255387 | PHOTO-ACTIVATION OF SOLID OXIDE FUEL CELLS AND GAS SEPARATION DEVICES - In various aspects, provided are methods for: (a) improving oxygen incorporation in a solid oxide layer less than about 1000 nm thick; (b) extending the on-set of mixed conduction in a solid oxide layer less than about 1000 nm thick; (c) modulating the electrical conductivity of oxide ion conducting layer less than about 1000 nm thick; (d) decreasing the conductivity of an oxide ion conducting layer less than about 1000 nm thick; (e) improving the performance of a solid oxide fuel cell; and (f) improving the performance of a gas separation device. In various embodiments, the methods comprise exposing oxygen to light having one or more wavelengths in the range between about 100 nm to about 365 nm and contacting the layer with the oxygen so exposed. In various embodiments, the methods provide the potential for tailoring the surface catalytic activity of oxygen-ion and mixed conductors used in various solid-state devices. | 10-07-2010 |
| 20100249201 | 3-3-Di-Substituted-Oxindoles As Inhibitors of Translation Initiation - Compositions and methods for inhibiting translation using 3-(5-tert-Butyl-2-Hydroxy-phenyl)-3-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-indol-2-one and/or its derivatives are provided. Compositions, methods and kits for treating (1) cellular proliferative disorders, (2) non-proliferative, degenerative disorders, (3) viral infections, and/or (4) disorders associated with viral infections, using 3-(5-tert-butyl-2-hydroxy-phenyl)-3-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-indol-2-one and/or its derivatives are described. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100243990 | NANOSENSORS - Electrical devices comprised of nanowires are described, along with methods of their manufacture and use. The nanowires can be nanotubes and nanowires. The surface of the nanowires may be selectively functionalized. Nanodetector devices are described. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100242139 | XENOHORMESIS BASED COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS - The present invention provides methods and compositions for improving the health of subjects, such as their resistance to stress. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100240733 | Histone Demethylation Mediated by the Nuclear Amine Oxidase Homolog LSD1 - LSD1, a homolog of nuclear amine oxidases, functions as a histone demethylase and transcriptional co-repressor. LSD1 specifically demethylates histone H3 lysine 4, which is linked to active transcription. Lysine demethylation occurs via an oxidation reaction that generates formaldehyde. Importantly, RNAi inhibition of LSD1 causes an increase in H3 lysine 4 methylation and concomitant de-repression of target genes, suggesting that LSD1 represses transcription via histone demethylation. The results thus identify a histone demethylase conserved from | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100239833 | Elastomeric mask and use in fabrication of devices - An elastomeric mask is provided that allows deposition of a variety of materials through mask openings. The mask seals effectively against substrate surfaces, allowing simple deposition from fluid phase, gas phase, and the like or removal of material using gaseous or liquid etchants. The mask then can be simply peeled from the surface of the substrate leaving the patterned material behind. Multi-layered mask techniques are described in which openings in an upper mask allow selected openings of a lower mask to remain un-shielded, while other openings of the lower mask are shielded. A first deposition step, following by re-orientation of the upper mask to expose a different set of lower mask openings, allows selective deposition of different materials in different openings of the lower mask. Pixelated organic electroluminescent devices are provided via the described technique. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100239824 | Metal Oxide Coating On Surfaces - The present invention provides a method for coating metal oxide on a PDMS surface. The method includes preparing a mixture that contains a sol-gel precursor, reacting the mixture to form a preconverted sol-gel precursor, where the preconverted sol-gel precursor does not diffuse into PDMS and is not in the form of a gel, forming a reactive PDMS surface, applying the preconverted sol-gel precursor onto the reactive PDMS surface, binding the preconverted sol-gel precursor to the re-active PDMS surface, and converting the bound preconverted sol-gel precursor to a metal oxide to form a metal oxide coating on the PDMS surface. The present invention also provides a PDMS microfluidic device where one or more channels of the microfluidic device is provided with a metal oxide coating covalently bound only on the surface of the one or more channels. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100233434 | PATTERNING OF IONIC POLYMERS - In one aspect, methods of patterning of thin films of an ionotropic polymer (e.g., poly(acrylic acid)) are provided. These processes can create micron or sub-micron-scale patterns of ionotropic polymers such as cation crosslinked poly(acrylic acid) (CCL-PAA). In one embodiment, patterning may be performed within microfluidic channels by flowing a solution of crosslinking agent (e.g., metal cations such as Ag | 09-16-2010 |
| 20100227382 | Nanoscale sensors - Various aspects of the present invention generally relate to nanoscale wire devices and methods for use in determining analytes suspected to be present in a sample, and systems and methods of immobilizing entities such as reaction entities relative to nanoscale wires. In one aspect, a nucleic acid, such as DNA, may be immobilized relative to a nanoscale wire, and in some cases, grown from the nanoscale wire. In certain embodiments, the nucleic acid may interact with entities such as other nucleic acids, proteins, etc., and in some cases, such interactions may be reversible. As an example, an enzyme such as telomerase may be allowed to bind to DNA immobilized relative to a nanoscale wire. The telomerase may extend the length of the DNA, for instance, by reaction with free deoxynucleotide triphosphates in solution; additionally, various properties of the nucleic acid may be determined, for example, using electric field interactions between the nucleic acid and the nanoscale wire. In another aspect, the invention provides systems and methods for attaching entities such as nucleic acids, receptors such as gangliosides, or surfactants to a nanoscale wire, for example, using aldehyde-producing reactions or hydrophobic interactions. In some aspects, certain systems and methods of the present invention may be used to determine an analyte suspected to be present in a sample, for example, a toxin, a virus, or a small molecule. Systems and methods of using such nanoscale wires are disclosed in other aspects of the invention, for example, within a microarray. Still other aspects of the invention include assays, sensors, kits, and/or other devices that include such nanoscale wires, methods of making and/or using functionalized nanoscale wires (for example, in drug screening or high-throughput screening), and the like. | 09-09-2010 |
| 20100227083 | Nanoscale Oxide Coatings - In various aspects, the present inventions provide methods for forming corrosion resistant oxide coatings on metals and/or improving the corrosion resistance of existing native oxide coatings. In various aspects, provided are methods for forming corrosion resistant oxide coatings on metals surfaces that are immersed in an aqueous solution. Various embodiments of various aspects of the present inventions can provide a scalable process for the formation of corrosion resistant coatings on metals in a manner that does not require high-vacuum technology, can be adapted to large structures, such as ships or aircraft, and in various aspects and embodiments can improve quality of existing oxide films on a metal or alloy surface. | 09-09-2010 |
| 20100226134 | Methods and Apparatus for Improving Collimation of Radiation Beams - An apparatus for collimating radiation can include an aperture of subwavelength dimensions and a neighboring set of grooves defined on a metal film integrated with an active or passive device that emits radiation. Integration of the beam collimator onto the facet of a laser or other radiation-emitting device provides for beam collimation and polarization selection. Beam divergence can be reduced by more than one order of magnitude compared with the output of a conventional laser. An active beam collimator with an aperture-groove structure can be integrated with a wide range of optical devices, such as semiconductor lasers (e.g., quantum cascade lasers), light emitting diodes, optical fibers, and fiber lasers. | 09-09-2010 |
| 20100213628 | METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR ENCAPSULATING ACTIVE AGENTS - Methods for making self-assembled, selectively permeable elastic microscopie structures, referred to herein as colloidosomes, that have controlled pore-size, porosity and advantageous mechanical properties are described. In one form of the invention, a method of forming colloidosomes includes providing particles formed from a biocompatible material in a first solvent and forming an emulsion by adding a first fluid to the first solvent wherein the emulsion is defined by droplets of the first fluid surrounded by the first solvent. The method includes coating the surface of droplet with the particles and the stabilizing the particles on the surface of droplet. The colloidosomes produced typically have a yield strength of at least about 20 Pascals. In certain forms of the invention, the particles are spherical and are formed of a biocompatible polymer. Colloidosomes formed according to the methods described herein are also provided. In one form, a colloidosome includes a shell formed of biocompatible, substantially spherical particles wherein each of the particles are linked to neighboring particles. The shell defines an inner chamber sized for housing a desired active agent and has a plurality of pores extending therethrough. The colloidosomes are structurally stable, typically having a yield strength of at least about 20 Pascals. Colloidal suspension and methods of encapsulating a desired active agent are also described | 08-26-2010 |
| 20100209994 | Protein Surface Remodeling - Aggregation is a major cause of the misbehavior of proteins. A system for modifying a protein to create a more stable variant is provided. The method involves identifying non-conserved hydrophobic amino acid residues on the surface of a protein, suitable for mutating to more hydrophilic residues (e.g., charged amino acids). Any number of residues on the surface may be changed to create a variant that is more soluble, resistant to aggregation, has a greater ability to re-fold, and/or is more stable under a variety of conditions. The invention also provides GFP, streptavidin, and GST variants with an increased theoretical net charge created by the inventive technology. Kits are also provided for carrying out such modifications on any protein of interest. | 08-19-2010 |
| 20100204053 | ASSAYS FOR THE IDENTIFICATION OF COMPOUNDS THAT MODULATE BONE FORMATION AND MINERALIZATION - This invention demonstrates that KRC molecules have multiple important functions as modulating agents in regulating a wide variety of cellular processes including bone formation and mineralization. TGF-β signaling in osteoblasts promotes the formation of a multimeric complex between KRC, Runx2, Smad3, and the E3 ubiquitin ligase, WWP1 which inhibits Runx2 function due to the ability of WWP1 to promote Runx2 polyubiquitination and proteasome-dependent degradation. Furthermore, KRC and WWP1 form a complex with RSK2 which inhibits RS K2 function due to the ability of WWP1 to promote RSK2 ubiquitination. Methods for identifying modulators of KRC activity are provided. Methods for modulating an immune response, bone formation and mineralization and KRC-associated disorders using agents that modulate KRC expression and/or activity are also provided. | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100199362 | WNT LIGANDS INVOLVED IN BLOOD-BRAIN BARRIER DEVELOPMENT AND USES THEREFOR - Provided are methods of diagnosing and treating vascular disorders of the CNS or disorders of the blood-brain barrier comprising the use of Wnt ligands involved in the canonical Wnt signaling pathway. | 08-05-2010 |
| 20100197006 | MOLECULAR CIRCUITS - Disclosed herein are autonomous molecular circuits that can function in cells. The circuits can process logical operations in which one or more input cues are among the operands and produce an appropriate output. Such circuits can be implemented in living cells, e.g., eukaryotic or prokaryotic cells that have been modified to include circuit components. The molecular circuits and cells containing the circuits can be used in a variety of applications including, e.g., diagnostics, therapeutics, and protein production. | 08-05-2010 |
