| The Penn State Research Foundation Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
|---|
| 20120115144 | Detection of Extracellular Tumor-Associated Nucleic Acid in Blood Plasma or Serum - This invention relates to detection of specific extracellular DNA in plasma or serum fractions of human or animal blood associated with neoplastic, pre-malignant or proliferative disease. Specifically, the invention relates to detection tumor-associated DNA, and to those methods of detecting and monitoring tumor-associated DNA found in the plasma or serum fraction of blood by using DNA extraction and amplification with or without enrichment for DNA. The invention allows the selection and monitoring of patients for various cancer therapies including receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapies. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120108562 | THERAPEUTIC COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS - PAD4 inhibitory compositions and methods for their use in treatment of cancer and autoimmune disease are provided according to embodiments of the present invention. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120106236 | TFET BASED 6T SRAM CELL - Memory devices and methods of operation are provided. A memory device includes first and second cross-coupled inverters and first and second access transistors coupled to an input node of the second inverter. The memory device also includes a control circuit for providing a first reference voltage at a first ground node of the first inverter and a second reference voltage at a second ground node of the second inverter. The first access transistor is configured to conduct current from a first bit line to the input node and to provide substantially no current conduction from the input node to the first bit line. The second access transistor is configured to conduct current from the input node to one of the first bit line and a second bit line and to provide substantially no current conduction from the input node to the one of first and second bit lines. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120082351 | FAST 3D-2D IMAGE REGISTRATION METHOD WITH APPLICATION TO CONTINUOUSLY GUIDED ENDOSCOPY - Fast and continuous registration between two imaging modalities makes it possible to completely determine the rigid transformation between multiple sources at real-time or near real-time frame-rates in order to localize video cameras and register the two sources. A set of reference images are computed or captured within a known environment, with corresponding depth maps and image gradients defining a reference source. Given one frame from a real-time or near-real time video feed, and starting from an initial guess of viewpoint, a real-time video frame is warped to the nearest viewing site of the reference source. An image difference is computed between the warped video frame and the reference image. Steps are repeated for each frame until the viewpoint converges or the next video frame becomes available. The final viewpoint gives an estimate of the relative rotation and translation between the camera at that particular video frame and the reference source. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120055217 | ELECTRICAL-ASSISTED DOUBLE SIDE INCREMENTAL FORMING AND PROCESSES THEREOF - A process for forming a sheet metal component using an electric current passing through the component is provided. The process can include providing a double side incremental forming machine, the machine operable to perform a plurality of double side incremental deformations on the sheet metal component and also apply an electric direct current to the sheet metal component during at least part of the forming. The direct current can be applied before or after the forming has started and/or be terminated before or after the forming has stopped. The direct current can be applied to any portion of the sheet metal. The electrical assistance can reduce the magnitude of force required to produce a given amount of deformation, increase the amount of deformation exhibited before failure and/or reduce any springback typically exhibited by the sheet metal component. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120025773 | METHOD OF CHARGING BATTERY AND BATTERY CHARGING CONTROL SYSTEM - A controller in a charging control system controls a charger to heat a battery at a low temperature by pulse charging and discharging up to a desired temperature and then moves to a normal charging mode. The controller calculates an ion concentration of an active material at electrode portions of the battery on the basis of the temperature data and the electric current data obtained, switch the pulse charging and discharging between a charging mode and a discharging mode on the basis of a pulse width when the ion concentration reaches a threshold. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20110318657 | SILICON-AIR BATTERIES - Silicon-oxygen batteries comprising a silicon anode as chemical fuel, an air-cathode for dissociating oxygen, and an electrolyte, and applications using the same are provided. The silicon-batteries may utilize air for generating oxygen. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110301930 | METHOD FOR DETERMINING GENE KNOCKOUTS - A method for determining candidates for gene deletions and additions using a model of a metabolic network associated with an organism, the model includes a plurality of metabolic reactions defining metabolite relationships, the method includes selecting a bioengineering objective for the organism, selecting at least one cellular objective, forming an optimization problem that couples the at least one cellular objective with the bioengineering objective, and solving the optimization problem to yield at least one candidate. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110299326 | TFET BASED 4T MEMORY DEVICES - A four transistor (4T) memory device is provided. The device includes a first cell transistor and a second cell transistor, the first and second cell transistors coupled to each other and defining latch circuitry having at least one multi-stable node. The device further includes a first access transistor and a second access transistor, the first and second access transistors coupling the at least one multi-stable node to at least one bit-line. In the device, each of the first and second cell transistors and each of the first and second access transistors is a unidirectional field effect transistor configured for conducting current in a first direction and to be insubstantially incapable of conducting current in a second direction. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110294025 | SURFACE-TREATED HYDROCARBON-BASED POLYMER ELECTROLYTE MEMBRANES FOR DIRECT OXIDATION FUEL CELLS - A proton (H | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110288008 | ANTIBACTERIAL AND PLASMID ELIMINATION AGENTS - Inhibitors of the tmRNA pathway have antibacterial activity with broad species specificity, including | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110282079 | One-step catalytic conversion of biomass-derived carbohydrates to liquid fuels - The invention relates to a method for manufacture of hydrocarbon fuels and oxygenated hydrocarbon fuels such as alkyl substituted tetrahydrofurans such as 2,5-dimethyltetrahydrofuran, 2-methyltetrahydrofuran, 5-methylfurfural and mixtures thereof. The method generally entails forming a mixture of reactants that includes carbonaceous material, water, a metal catalyst and an acid reacting that mixture in the presence of hydrogen. The reaction is performed at a temperature and for a time sufficient to produce a furan type hydrocarbon fuel. The process may be adapted to provide continuous manufacture of hydrocarbon fuels such as a furan type fuel. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110280885 | CANCER IMMUNOTHERAPY - A method for stimulating a immune response against IL-13Rα2 in a subject having or at risk for developing a disease having cells expressing IL-13Rα2 includes the steps of formulating the anti-cancer vaccine outside of the subject and administering the vaccine to the subject in an amount sufficient to stimulate an immune response against IL-13Rα2 in the subject. A composition for stimulating a immune response against IL-13Rα2 in a subject having or at risk for developing a disease having cells expressing IL-13Rα2 includes an isolated agent that can stimulate immune response against IL-13α2. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110275073 | Method for detecting tumor-associated DNA in blood or blood fractions - This invention relates to detection of specific extracellular nucleic acid in plasma or serum fractions of human or animal blood associated with neoplastic or proliferative disease. Specifically, the invention relates to detection of nucleic acid derived from mutant oncogenes or other tumor-associated DNA, and to those methods of detecting and monitoring extracellular mutant oncogenes or tumor-associated DNA found in the plasma or serum fraction of blood by using rapid DNA extraction followed by nucleic acid amplification with or without enrichment for mutant DNA. In particular, the invention relates to the detection, identification, or monitoring of the existence, progression or clinical status of benign, premalignant, or malignant neoplasms in humans or other animals that contain a mutation that is associated with the neoplasm through detection of the mutated nucleic acid of the neoplasm in plasma or serum fractions. The invention permits the detection of extracellular, tumor-associated nucleic acid in the serum or plasma of humans or other animals recognized as having a neoplastic or proliferative disease or in individuals without any prior history or diagnosis of neoplastic or proliferative disease. The invention provides the ability to detect extracellular nucleic acid derived from genetic sequences known to be associated with neoplasia, such as oncogenes, as well as genetic sequences previously unrecognized as being associated with neoplastic or proliferative disease. The invention thereby provides methods for early identification of colorectal, pancreatic, lung, breast, bladder, ovarian, lymphoma and all other malignancies carrying tumor-related mutations of DNA and methods for monitoring cancer and other neoplastic disorders in humans and other animals. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110252800 | ALUMINIUM COMBUSTION POWER SYSTEM - An engine that oxidizes aluminum with water to produce electrical and/or mechanical power. The engine can include a fuel made at least partly from aluminum powder that flows like liquid under high pressure. The engine can also include a steam supply system, a combustor, a fuel feed system, a fuel injection system, and a water supply system. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110240151 | FLUIDIC DEVICE - A fluidic device having a first layer with a first layer wicking channel and a second layer extending across the first layer and having a second layer functional wicking channel. The fluidic device can further include a third layer extending across the second layer, the third layer having a third layer functional wicking channel. The second layer functional wicking channel can have a different function than the third layer functional wicking channel and the functional wicking channels can afford for the fluidic device to be used as a timer, a battery, and/or a chemical assay. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110239322 | IN VITRO FLOWERING/SEED SET LEADING TO PARTIAL OR COMPLETE MALE STERILITY IN GRASSES - The present invention relates to a method of manipulating plant development that allows for partial or complete male sterility in grasses. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110236344 | Synthetic mimics of mammalian cell surface receptors: method and compositions - The present invention relates to new synthetic receptors. More particularly, the present invention relates to the use of the synthetic receptors for delivering a protein, peptide, drug, prodrug, lipid, nucleic acid, carbohydrate or small molecule into a target cell via receptor-mediated endocytosis. According to the invention, novel synthetic mimics of cell surface receptors have been designed and methods for use of the same are disclosed. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110236210 | EXPANDABLE IMPELLER PUMP - An impeller includes a hub, and a plurality of blades supported by the hub, the blades being arranged in at least two blade rows. The impeller has a deployed configuration in which the blades extend away from the hub, and a stored configuration in which at least one of the blades is radially compressed, for example by folding the blade towards the hub. The impeller may also have an operational configuration in which at least some of the blades are deformed from the deployed configuration upon rotation of the impeller when in the deployed configuration. The outer edge of one or more blades may have a winglet, and the base of the blades may have an associated indentation to facilitate folding of the blades. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110229972 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR MATERIAL TRANSFER INTO CELLS - Methods for material transfer into a cell are provided according to the present invention which include electroporation of the cell in the presence of the material, such as nucleic acids, and 2,3-butanedione monoxime; and lipofection with a complex of a lipid-based carrier, such as liposomes, and the material, in the presence of 2,3-butanedione monoxime. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110228809 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR ULTRA-SENSITIVE TEMPERATURE DETECTION USING RESONANT DEVICES - Methods, apparatus, and systems to improve thermal sensitivity of resonant circuits. One aspect utilizes tracking near-resonance complex impedance for a quartz resonator based calorimeter sensor to derive ultra-sensitive temperature measurement from the sensor. Another aspect includes a quartz resonant or -based calorimetric sensor placed close to but not touching the analyte being measured to eliminate mass loading effect on the temperature measurement. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110223597 | METHODS RELATING TO OLANZAPINE PHARMACOGENETICS - There is significant variability in subject clearance, half-life and side-effects from treatment with olanzapine (OLZ) in subjects. Methods for aiding in determining therapeutic efficacy of olanzapine in a subject are provided according to embodiments of the present invention which include identifying in a subject sample whether UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 2B10 (UGT2B10) and/or UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 1A4 (UGT1A4) is “wild-type” or a variant associated with altered glucuronidation of an olanzapine metabolite compared to wild-type. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110217163 | DOUBLE-DUCTED FAN - A double-ducted fan includes a hub, a rotor having a plurality of blades rotatably and coupled to the hub, a first duct, a second duct, and a channel defined between the first duct and second duct. The first duct circumscribes the rotor, and the second duct circumscribes at least a portion of the first duct. The second duct can be oriented axially upward such that there is an axial distance is between the leading edges of the first duct and second duct. The channel can be configured to direct air flow cross-wise to the first duct over a top of the first duct into the inlet side of the fan. The second duct can be movable relative to the first duct to adjust at least a portion of the channel. The length of the first duct can be different from the length of the second duct. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110212847 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS RELATING TO MONITORING ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION AND ALCOHOL ABUSE - Methods and compositions according to embodiments of the present invention are provided that specifically and sensitively detect alcohol consumption and whether alcohol consumption is moderate or high in a subject. Aspects of the present invention relate to assays of panels of proteins for detecting non-consumption, moderate consumption and high consumption of ethanol by a subject. | 09-01-2011 |
| 20110212382 | High energy density ionic dielectric materials and devices - Dielectric compositions that include compound of the formula [(M′) | 09-01-2011 |
| 20110207130 | Method of detecting tumor-associated hypermethylated DNA in plasma or serum - This invention relates to detection of specific extracellular nucleic acid in human or animal blood plasma or serum associated with disease. Specifically, the invention relates to detection of nucleic acid derived from mutant oncogenes or other tumor-associated DNA including non-mutated hypermethylated DNA, and to methods of detecting and monitoring extracellular mutant oncogenes or tumor-associated DNA including non-mutated hypermethylated DNA found in blood plasma or serum. In particular, the invention relates to the detection, identification, or monitoring of the existence, progression or clinical status of neoplasia in humans or other animals that contain a mutation that is associated with the neoplasm through detection of the non-mutated hypermethylated nucleic acid of the neoplasm in plasma or serum fractions. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110196099 | PARTICLE DOUBLETS AND N-MERS AND METHODS FOR FABRICATION THEREOF - Methods of producing a plurality of particle aggregates having a specified number of member particles are provided according to embodiments of the present invention. Specific methods include stimulating a plurality of particles with an aggregation stimulus to form a plurality of particle aggregates and then quenching the aggregation stimulus in order to inhibit further particle aggregation. An individual particle aggregate of the produced plurality of particle aggregates has member particles including at least a first member particle and a second member particle. Member particles of particle aggregates are optionally subjected to fusion to stabilize the particle aggregates. Produced particle aggregates having a specified number of member particles may be purified to enrich for particular aggregates. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110191894 | METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS RELATING TO CONROLLED INDUCTION OF PLANT SENESCENCE - Methods and compositions for promoting senescence in plants are provided. Methods and compositions for promoting senescence in plants by increased expression of an exogenous or endogenous abscisic-acid-activated protein kinase-interacting protein, AKIP. In specific embodiments, transgenic plants are provided expressing increased abscisic-acid-activated protein kinase-interacting protein, AKIP, during the developmental stage of senescence, thereby promoting enhanced plant senescence. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110184238 | IMAGE-BASED GLOBAL REGISTRATION SYSTEM AND METHOD APPLICABLE TO BRONCHOSCOPY GUIDANCE - A global registration system and method identifies bronchoscope position without the need for significant bronchoscope maneuvers, technician intervention, or electromagnetic sensors. Virtual bronchoscopy (VB) renderings of a 3D airway tree are obtained including VB views of branch positions within the airway tree. At least one real bronchoscopic (RB) video frame is received from a bronchoscope inserted into the airway tree. An algorithm according to the invention is executed on a computer to identify the several most likely branch positions having a VB view closest to the received RB view, and the 3D position of the bronchoscope within the airway tree is determined in accordance with the branch position identified in the VB view. The preferred embodiment involves a fast local registration search over all the branches in a global airway-bifurcation search space, with the weighted normalized sum of squares distance metric used for finding the best match. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110182747 | HUB FIN DEVICE - The present invention discloses a hub fin device for improving the efficiency of a propeller. The hub fin device can include a propeller having a hub and a plurality of propeller blades that extend radially outward from the hub. Each of the plurality of propeller blades has a trailing edge region. A fin can also be included and located in the trailing edge region of at least one of the plurality of propeller blades. The fin extends radially outward from the hub and reduces or eliminates a hub vortex that is normally present during operation of the propeller. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110171062 | UP-CONVERSION LUMINESCENT COATINGS/MATERIALS FOR ANTIMICROBIAL APPLICATIONS - The present invention provides continuous, non-hazardous sterilization and anti-microorganism protection by the generation of interactive, emission responsive surfaces, coatings, and coating systems. | 07-14-2011 |
| 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 |
| 20110128352 | FAST 3D-2D IMAGE REGISTRATION METHOD WITH APPLICATION TO CONTINUOUSLY GUIDED ENDOSCOPY - A novel framework for fast and continuous registration between two imaging modalities is disclosed. The approach makes it possible to completely determine the rigid transformation between multiple sources at real-time or near real-time frame-rates in order to localize the cameras and register the two sources. A disclosed example includes computing or capturing a set of reference images within a known environment, complete with corresponding depth maps and image gradients. The collection of these images and depth maps constitutes the reference source. The second source is a real-time or near-real time source which may include a live video feed. Given one frame from this video feed, and starting from an initial guess of viewpoint, the real-time video frame is warped to the nearest viewing site of the reference source. An image difference is computed between the warped video frame and the reference image. The viewpoint is updated via a Gauss-Newton parameter update and certain of the steps are repeated for each frame until the viewpoint converges or the next video frame becomes available. The final viewpoint gives an estimate of the relative rotation and translation between the camera at that particular video frame and the reference source. The invention has far-reaching applications, particularly in the field of assisted endoscopy, including bronchoscopy and colonoscopy. Other applications include aerial and ground-based navigation. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110123437 | COMBINATORIAL THERAPIES FOR THE TREATMENT OF NEOPLASIAS USING THE OPIOID GROWTH FACTOR RECEPTOR - The present invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions for treating neoplasias in an animal or human comprised of a carrier and therapeutically effective amounts of at least one chemotherapeutic agent along with the biotherapeutic endogenous pentapeptide Met-enkephalin, referred to as opioid growth factor. Also provided are methods of treating neoplasias in an animal or human in need of such treatment, comprising the administration to the animal or human therapeutically effective amounts of a pharmaceutical composition comprised of a carrier and therapeutically effective amounts of at least one neoplasia-treating agent, such as a chemotherapeutic agent or radiation, along with opioid growth factor. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110112568 | SURGICAL TOOL - Recent advances in minimally invasive surgical procedures have created a demand for smaller scale tools with improved performance characteristics. Attempts to scale down modern tools to the meso level (1-5 mm) have caused severe performance losses. Surgical tools of the present invention provide significant improvements in operable range and force application for both grasping and spreading when compared to currently used endoscopic forceps. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110110955 | ANTIBODY CANCER IMMUNOTHERAPY - A method for stimulating a immune response against IL-13Rα2 in a subject having or at risk for developing a disease having cells expressing IL-13Rα2 includes the steps of formulating the anti-cancer vaccine outside of the subject and administering the vaccine to the subject in an amount sufficient to stimulate an immune response against IL-13Rα2 in the subject. A composition for stimulating a immune response against IL-13Rα2 in a subject having or at risk for developing a disease having cells expressing IL-13Rα2 includes an isolated agent that can stimulate immune response against IL-13α2. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110110015 | Methods to improve the efficiency and reduce the energy losses in high energy density capacitor films and articles comprising the same - A multilayer film useful for capacitive applications comprises a high energy density layer and a dielectric blocking layer. In some embodiments, a conducting film is located between the high energy density layer and the blocking layer. The high energy density layer may be a fluoropolymer, such as a polymer or copolymer of poly-1,1-difluoroethene or a derivative thereof. The multilayer film may have high energy density (for example,. >8 J/cm | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110108232 | BINDER MATERIAL - A binder material for binding a plurality of particles together to form a conglomerate such as a carbon-containing briquette, a sand casting core and the like is provided. The binder material can include a collagen and/or lignin and a plurality of inorganic particles. In some instances, the binder material can be used to make a composite material. The composite material can include a plurality of particles and the binder material that contains the collagen and/or lignin. The binder material affords for the plurality of particles to be bound together into a desired shape, the desired shape having desirable properties. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110086236 | COMPOSITES CONTAINING POLYPEPTIDES ATTACHED TO POLYSACCHARIDES AND MOLECULES - This document provides methods and materials related to composites or coatings containing polypeptides attached to polysaccharides and/or molecules. For example, methods and materials related to composites or coatings containing polypeptides (e.g., casein polypeptides) attached to polysaccharides (e.g., cellulose) and/or molecules (e.g., calcium containing molecules such as calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate and/or polyesters such as polylactic acid and polyhydroxybutyrate) are provided. A coating provided herein can include both cationic and ionic polymers, polypeptides, or polysaccharides. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110085279 | SELF HEALING HIGH ENERGY GLASS CAPACITORS - A self healing high energy glass capacitor is provided. The capacitor can have a glass layer with a top surface and a bottom surface. A top sacrificial layer can extend across the top surface and a bottom sacrificial layer can extend across the bottom surface. In addition, a top electrode can extend across the top sacrificial layer and a bottom electrode can extend across the bottom sacrificial layer. In some instances the glass capacitor has an energy breakdown of at least 6 joules per cubic centimeter. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110085232 | MULTI-SPECTRAL FILTERS, MIRRORS AND ANTI-REFLECTIVE COATINGS WITH SUBWAVELENGTH PERIODIC FEATURES FOR OPTICAL DEVICES - Example apparatus have a radiation-receiving surface configured to receive electromagnetic radiation, including a sub-wavelength grating supported by a substrate. The sub-wavelength grating has a side-wall profile that may be configured and optimized to obtain desired spectral properties. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110071428 | BIOPSY DEVICE - Biopsy devices which can be used with a flexible endoscope are described herein. Inventive biopsy devices can be used in minimally invasive procedures and other biopsy applications. Inventive biopsy devices can be used through an endoscope channel to perform zero invasive biopsies on the gastrointestinal system and other organs. Actuation devices for use to twist or manipulate the biopsy device even when it is at the end of the endoscopic cable are provided according to embodiments of the present invention. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110071338 | HEART ASSIST DEVICE WITH EXPANDABLE IMPELLER PUMP - An impeller includes a hub and at least one blade supported by the hub. The impeller has a stored configuration in which the blade is compressed so that its distal end moves towards the hub, and a deployed configuration in which the blade extends away from the hub. The impeller may be part of a pump for pumping fluids, such as pumping blood within a patient. A blood pump may include a cannula having a proximal portion with a fixed diameter, and a distal portion with an expandable diameter. The impeller may reside in the expandable portion of the cannula. The cannula may have a compressed diameter which allows it to be inserted percutaneously into a patient. Once at a desired location, the expandable portion of the cannula may be expanded and the impeller expanded to the deployed configuration. A flexible drive shaft may extend through the cannula for rotationally driving the impeller within the patient's body. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110065761 | METHODS OF TREATING NERVE-RELATED VISION DISORDERS - This invention provides reagents and methods for delivering insulin, insulinomimetic agents, and the like to a vertebrate eye via subconjunctival routes, sub-Tenon's routes, or intravitreal routes for treatment of nerve-related vision disorders such as diabetic retinopathy, and formulations useful in the practice of the disclosed methods | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110045365 | METHOD FOR REMOVING RESIDUAL WATER FROM FUEL CELL - The present invention provides a method for removing residual water in a fuel cell, which controls the humidity of purge gases to effectively remove residual water in the fuel cell and to maintain the humidity in a membrane at a constant level, thus ensuring the durability of the membrane. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110039265 | Method of detecting tumor-associated DNA in plasma or serum - This invention relates to detection of specific extracellular nucleic acid in plasma or serum fractions of human or animal blood associated with neoplastic or proliferative disease. Specifically, the invention relates to detection of nucleic acid derived from mutant oncogenes or other tumor-associated DNA, and to those methods of detecting and monitoring extracellular mutant oncogenes or tumor-associated DNA found in the plasma or serum fraction of blood by using rapid DNA extraction followed by nucleic acid amplification with or without enrichment for mutant DNA. In particular, the invention relates to the detection, identification, or monitoring of the existence, progression or clinical status of benign, premalignant, or malignant neoplasms in human or other animals that contain a mutation that is associated with the neoplasm through detection of the mutated nucleic acid of the neoplasm in plasma or serum fractions. The invention permits the detection of extracellular, tumor-associated nucleic acid in the serum or plasma of humans or other animals recognized as having a neoplastic or proliferative disease or in individuals without any prior history or diagnosis of neoplastic or proliferative disease. The invention provides the ability to detect extracellular nucleic acid derived from genetic sequences known to be associated with neoplasia, such a oncogenes, as well as genetic sequences previously unrecognized as being associated with neoplastic or proliferative disease. The invention thereby provides methods for early identification of colorectal, pancreatic, lung, breast, bladder, ovarian, lymphoma and all other malignancies carrying tumor-related mutations of DNA and methods for monitoring cancer and other neoplastic disorders in humane and other animals. | 02-17-2011 |
| 20110035808 | ROOTKIT-RESISTANT STORAGE DISKS - Rootkit-resistant disks (RRD) label all immutable system binaries and configuration files at installation time. During normal operation, the disk controller inspects all write operations received from the host operating system and denies those made for labeled blocks. To upgrade, the host is booted into a safe state and system blocks can only be modified if a security token is attached to the disk controller. By enforcing immutability at the disk controller, a compromised operating system is prevented from infecting its on-disk image. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20110034494 | REVERSIBLE INHIBITION OF SPERM RECEPTOR SYNTHESIS FOR CONTRACEPTION - Methods are disclosed for reversibly inhibiting sperm receptor activity in animals. Nicarbazin, its derivatives and modifications which retain pharmacological activity are shown to inhibit activity of zona pellucida proteins and concomitant synthesis and/or assembly of the sperm receptor on the oocyte surface necessary for fertilization. Nicarbazin is easily administered, for example by simple addition to feed of an animal and is and non-toxic to the animals, providing a safe and efficient means for controlling populations of mammals and avian species. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20110033856 | METHODS RELATING TO AROMATASE INHIBITOR PHARMACOGENETICS - Methods for aiding in determining therapeutic efficacy of an aromatase inhibitor in a subject are provided according to embodiments of the present invention which include detecting expression and/or function of at least one UDP-glucuronosyltransferase having activity to modify at least one aromatase inhibitor and/or metabolite of the aromatase inhibitor by glucuronidation, wherein detection of expression and/or function of the UDP-glucuronosyltransferase is correlated with therapeutic efficacy of the aromatase inhibitor in the subject. Detection of UDP-glucuronosyltransferase expression and/or function includes detection of a UDP-glucuronosyltransferase gene deletion polymorphism in the subject | 02-10-2011 |
| 20110015867 | METHOD FOR REDESIGN OF MICROBIAL PRODUCTION SYSTEMS - A computer-assisted method for identifying functionalities to add to an organism-specific metabolic network to enable a desired biotransformation in a host includes accessing reactions from a universal database to provide stoichiometric balance, identifying at least one stoichiometrically balanced pathway at least partially based on the reactions and a substrate to minimize a number of non-native functionalities in the production host, and incorporating the at least one stoichiometrically balanced pathway into the host to provide the desired biotransformation. A representation of the metabolic network as modified can be stored. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110013287 | Tunable Liquid Gradient Refractive Index Lens Device - A lens device includes a substrate having a channel and a first fluid flow path and a second fluid flow path. The first and second fluid flow paths at least partially in communication with the channel. A light emitting device is positioned adjacent to the channel. At least one first fluid source is in communication with the first fluid path such that a first fluid is moveable along the first fluid path and at least one second fluid source in communication with the second fluid path such that a second fluid is moveable along the second fluid path. The first second fluid paths are configured so the first fluid and second fluid move through the channel to define an adjustable liquid gradient refractive index distribution in the channel. Adjustment of the liquid gradient refractive index distribution permits a change of liquid lens focal distance or an angular adjustment of light emitted by the light emitting device. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110006641 | FLEXOELECTRIC - PIEZOELECTRIC COMPOSITE BASED ON FLEXOELECTRIC CHARGE SEPARATION - An example flexoelectric-piezoelectric apparatus provides an electrical response to an applied force, and/or an actuation in response to an applied electric field, that originates from the flexoelectric properties of a component. For example, shaped forms within the apparatus may be configured to yield a stress gradient on application of the force, and the stress gradient induces the flexoelectric signal. A flexoelectric-piezoelectric apparatus can be substituted for a conventional piezoelectric apparatus, but does not require the use of a piezoelectric material. Instead, the response of the apparatus is due to the generation of stress gradients and/or field gradients. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110004046 | BLOOD PUMP WITH EXPANDABLE CANNULA - A blood pump includes an impeller having a plurality of foldable blades and a cannula having a proximal portion with a fixed diameter, and a distal portion with an expandable diameter. The impeller can reside in the expandable portion of the cannula. The cannula has a collapsed condition for percutaneous delivery to a desired location within the body, and an expanded condition in which the impeller can rotate to pump blood. A flexible drive shaft can extend through the cannula for rotationally driving the impeller within the patient's body. | 01-06-2011 |
| 20100327171 | SOLID-STATE NUCLEAR DETECTOR - The present invention provides an innovative solid-state neutron detector that exhibits superior neutron-sensitivities. One embodiment of the present invention includes a Gadolinium-oxide (Gd | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100326657 | Treatment of particles for improved performance as proppants - The disclosed invention relates to a process of using molten salt ion exchange to treat particles such as spherically shaped soda-lime-silica glass particles. The treated particles may be used as proppants in hydrofractured oil and natural gas wells. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100310146 | MEDICAL IMAGE REPORTING SYSTEM AND METHOD - This invention relates generally to medical imaging and, in particular, to a method and system for reconstructing a model path through a branched tubular organ. Novel methodologies and systems segment and define accurate endoluminal surfaces in airway trees, including small peripheral bronchi. An automatic algorithm is described that searches the entire lung volume for airway branches and poses airway-tree segmentation as a global graph-theoretic optimization problem. A suite of interactive segmentation tools for cleaning and extending critical areas of the automatically segmented result is disclosed. A model path is reconstructed through the airway tree. | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100309465 | COHERENT ANTI-STOKES RAMAN HOLOGRAPHY - Apparatus and methods of four wave mixing (FWM) holography are described, including illuminating a sample with a first beam, a second beam, and a third beam, and combining the generated FWM signal with a reference beam at a imaging device to obtain holographic image data. In some examples, the first and second beams may be provided by a single pump-probe beam. The third beam may be a Stokes beam or an anti-Stokes beam. A representative example is coherent anti-Stokes Raman holography (CARS holography), which includes illuminating a sample with a pump/probe beam and a Stokes beam to obtain a CARS signal from the sample; and combining the CARS signal with a reference beam to obtain a CARS hologram. | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100307050 | One-step catalytic conversion of biomass-derived carbohydrates to liquid fuels - The invention relates to a method for manufacture of hydrocarbon fuels and oxygenated hydrocarbon fuels such as alkyl substituted tetrahydrofurans such as 2,5-dimethyltetrahydrofuran, 2-methyltetrahydrofuran and mixtures thereof. The method generally entails forming a mixture of reactants that includes carbonaceous material water, a metal catalyst and an acid reacting that mixture in the presence of hydrogen. The reaction is performed at a temperature and for a time sufficient to produce a furan type hydrocarbon fuel. The process may be adapted to provide continuous manufacture of hydrocarbon fuels such as a furan type fuel. | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100280365 | GUIDANCE METHOD BASED ON 3D-2D POSE ESTIMATION AND 3D-CT REGISTRATION WITH APPLICATION TO LIVE BRONCHOSCOPY - A method provides guidance to the physician during a live bronchoscopy or other endoscopic procedures. The 3D motion of the bronchoscope is estimated using a fast coarse tracking step followed by a fine registration step. The tracking is based on finding a set of corresponding feature points across a plurality of consecutive bronchoscopic video frames, then estimating for the new pose of the bronchoscope. In the preferred embodiment the pose estimation is based on linearization of the rotation matrix. By giving a set of corresponding points across the current bronchoscopic video image, and the CT-based virtual image as an input, the same method can also be used for manual registration. The fine registration step is preferably a gradient-based Gauss-Newton method that maximizes the correlation between the bronchoscopic video image and the CT-based virtual image. The continuous guidance is provided by estimating the 3D motion of the bronchoscope in a loop. Since depth-map information is available, tracking can be done by solving a 3D-2D pose estimation problem. A 3D-2D pose estimation problem is more constrained than a 2D-2D pose estimation problem and does not suffer from the limitations associated with computing an essential matrix. The use of correlation-based cost, instead of mutual information as a registration cost, makes it simpler to use gradient-based methods for registration. | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100279007 | 3-D Printing of near net shape products - The disclosed method relates to manufacture of a near net-shaped products such as ceramic containing products such as ceramic-metal composites. The method entails forming a mixture of a build material and a binder and depositing that mixture onto a surface to produce a layer of the mixture. An activator fluid then is applied to at least one selected region of the layer to bond the binder to the build material to yield a shaped pattern. These steps may be repeated to produce a porous whitebody that is heat treated to yield a porous greenbody preform having a porosity of about 30% to about 70%. The greenbody then is impregnated with a molten material such as molten metal. Where the build material is SiC, the molten metal employed is Si to generate a SiC—Si composite. | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100270158 | DESALINATION DEVICES AND METHODS - Microbial processes and systems are provided according to the present invention for desalination of saline materials, such as aqueous mixtures including dissolved salts. Microbial desalination devices according to embodiments of the present invention create hydrogen gas in a configuration referred to as a microbial electrolysis desalination cell (MEDC), or electricity in a configuration referred to as a microbial fuel desalination cell (MFDC) in addition to desalination of saline materials. | 10-28-2010 |
| 20100260926 | Interactive coatings, surfaces & materials - The present invention provides in-situ health monitoring and non-destructive evaluation and early detection of corrosion, damage, failure, flaws, defects, and subsurface inspection by the generation of electromagnetic responsive surfaces, coatings and coating systems. | 10-14-2010 |
| 20100247436 | In vivo photodynamic therapy of cancer via a near infrared agent encapsulated in calcium phosphate nanoparticles - Nano-encapsulated photosensitizers and their use in the treatment of tumors and/or imaging is described. Preferably, the photosensitizers are encapsulated in a calcium phosphate nanoparticle (CPNP). Encapsulating the PS in a CPNP increases the half-life of the PS, increases absorption of the PS into the target cell tissue, increases the photostability of the PS, increases the photoefficiency of the PS, increases in vivo retention of the PS, or combinations thereof, ultimately making it a highly efficacious agent for use in photodynamic therapy, imaging target tissues, vessels, or tumors, and/or detecting or locating tumors. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100229774 | REMOVABLE PROTECTIVE NOSE COVER - A removable protective nose cover for a submersible structure having a nose section is disclosed. The removable protective nose cover can include a plurality of shell members, each of the shell members having a forward end and an aft end. Each shell member can also be dimensioned to fit adjacent to and around the nose section of the submersible structure and thereby form a protective shell. A central nose member having a locking member can also be included, the locking member being operable to attach the central nose member to each of the forward ends of the shell members. The aft ends of the shell members can be attached to each other using a plurality of attachment clips such that the attachment of the central nose member to each of the forward ends of the shell members and the attachment of the adjacent aft ends of the shell members form the removable protective nose cover for the submersible structure. The attachment clips can be operable to release the plurality of shell members from being held adjacent to the submersible structure when the structure moves through a liquid at a predefined speed. | 09-16-2010 |
| 20100213477 | Light Emitting Apparatus - A light emitting apparatus may include a gate metal positioned between a p-type contact and an n-type contact, a gate oxide or other dielectric stack positioned below and attached to the gate metal, a Ge or Si | 08-26-2010 |
| 20100213046 | Titania nanotube arrays, methods of manufacture, and photocatalytic conversion of carbon dioxide using same - Nitrogen-doped titania nanotubes exhibiting catalytic activity on exposure to any one or more of ultraviolet, visible, and/or infrared radiation, or combinations thereof are disclosed. The nanotube arrays may be co-doped with one or more nonmetals and may further include co-catalyst nanoparticles. Also, methods are disclosed for use of nitrogen-doped titania nanotubes in catalytic conversion of carbon dioxide alone or in admixture with hydrogen-containing gases such as water vapor and/or other reactants as may be present or desirable into products such as hydrocarbons and hydrocarbon-containing products, hydrogen and hydrogen-containing products, carbon monoxide and other carbon-containing products, or combinations thereof. | 08-26-2010 |
| 20100204172 | INACTIVATORS OF O6-ALKYLGUANINE-DNA ALKYLTRANSFERASE - Disclosed are compounds that are AGT inactivators that include a folate residue, e.g., a compound of formula (I), wherein X | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100187172 | HIGHLY-ORDERED TITANIA NANOTUBE ARRAYS - Fabrication of self-aligned closed packed titania nanotube arrays in excess of 10 μm in length and aspect ratio ≈10,000 by potentiostatic anodization of titanium is disclosed. Conditions for achieving complete anodization and absolute tailorability of Ti foil samples resulting in a self-standing mechanically robust titania membrane in excess of 1000 μm are also disclosed. | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100184224 | PLANT CELL WALL LOOSENING ACTIVITY OF GROUP 2/3 ALLERGENS OF GRASS POLLEN - The present invention provides nucleic acids and polypeptide sequences for a novel class of expansin-related proteins, designated group 2/3 allergen, which comprise the group 2 and group 3 allergens from grass, a purified group 3 allergen Lol p 3, and method of using the nucleic acids sequences and proteins of the invention. Group 2/3 allergens of the invention are significant wall-loosening agents. They are capable of altering cell wall properties, which may effect growth, flexibility, and mechanical strength in tissues in which they are expressed. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100183951 | DIRECT OXIDATION FUEL CELLS WITH IMPROVED CATHODE GAS DIFFUSION MEDIA FOR LOW AIR STOICHIOMETRY OPERATION - A cathode for use in a direct oxidation fuel cell (DOFC) comprises a gas diffusion medium (GDM) including a backing layer and a microporous layer comprising a fluoropolymer and an electrically conductive material, wherein loading of the fluoropolymer in the microporous layer is in the range from about 10 to about 60 wt. %. In use, a concentrated solution of a liquid fuel is supplied to an anode and an oxidant to the cathode of the fuel cell, and the fuel cell may be operated at a low oxidant stoichiometry not greater than about 2.5. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100183520 | NETRIN-1 AS A BIOMARKER OF INJURY AND DISEASE - Detection and diagnosis of injury and/or disease in a subject can be key to preventing irreversible damage and death. Methods of aiding detection and assessment of a disease or condition in a subject are which include assaying netrin-1 protein and/or nucleic acid in a test sample obtained from the subject. Methods of assessment of treatment of a disease or condition in a subject are provided which include assaying netrin-1 protein and/or nucleic acid in a test sample obtained from the subject. Disclosed methods allow for earlier detection of renal dysfunction compared to currently available technology. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100173318 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MODELING CELLULAR METABOLISM - This invention relates to methods and systems for in silico or bioinformatic modeling of cellular metabolism. The invention includes methods and systems for modeling cellular metabolism of an organism, comprising constructing a flux balance analysis model, and applying constraints to the flux balance analysis model, the constraints selected from the set consisting of: qualitative kinetic information constraints, qualitative regulatory information constraints, and differential DNA microarray experimental data constraints. In addition, the present invention provides for computational procedures for solving metabolic problems. | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100160657 | SYNTHETIC MIMICS OF MAMMALIAN CELL SURFACE RECEPTORS: METHOD AND COMPOSITIONS - The present invention relates to new synthetic receptors. More particularly, the present invention relates to methods for synthesizing preferred membrane-binding elements, preferably cholesterylamine derivatives, including 3β-amino-5-cholestene (3β-cholesterylamine) and related 3β-halides through i-steroid and retro-i-steroid rearrangements. The invention further relates to use of the synthetic receptors for delivering a protein, peptide, drug, prodrug, lipid, nucleic acid, carbohydrate or small molecule into a target cell via receptor-mediated endocytosis. According to the invention, novel synthetic mimics of cell surface receptors have been designed and methods for use of the same are disclosed. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100151279 | ELECTRODES AND METHODS FOR MICROBIAL FUEL CELLS - Methods of improving a performance parameter of a microbial fuel cell are provided according to embodiments of the present invention which include heating an electrode and exposing the heated electrode to ammonia gas to produce a treated electrode characterized by an increased positive surface charge on the electrode surface. Improved performance parameters include increased maximum power density, increased coulombic efficiency, increased volumetric power density and decreased microbial fuel cell operation time to achieve maximum power density | 06-17-2010 |
| 20100139747 | Single-crystal nanowires and liquid junction solar cells - A method of making semiconducting oxide nanowire arrays on such as rutile is disclosed wherein a substrate is heated in the presence of a reaction mixture of non-polar solvent, semi-conductor metal oxide precursor source and strong acid to produce a nanowire array of a semiconducting oxide on the substrate. Dye sensitized solar cells that employ these nanowire arrays also are disclosed. | 06-10-2010 |
| 20100133461 | NBT based lead-free piezoelectric materials for high power applications - Piezoelectric compounds of the formula xNa | 06-03-2010 |
| 20100129400 | ATTENUATED VIRUSES, VACCINES AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - The invention encompasses compositions and methods relating to viral polymerases having one or more substitutions of different amino acids at conserved regions of the polymerase yields enzymes with varying rates and fidelity of replication. A universally applicable, polymerase-mechanism-based strategy for production of attenuated viruses and anti-viral vaccines is disclosed. Attenuated viruses serve as vaccines and were shown to provide protection against poliovirus challenge in vivo. | 05-27-2010 |
| 20100119920 | CATHODES FOR MICROBIAL ELECTROLYSIS CELLS AND MICROBIAL FUEL CELLS - An apparatus is provided according to embodiments of the present invention which includes a reaction chamber having a wall defining an interior of the reaction chamber and an exterior of the reaction chamber; exoelectrogenic bacteria disposed in the interior of the reaction chamber; an aqueous medium having a pH in the range of 3-9, inclusive, the aqueous medium including an organic substrate oxidizable by exoelectrogenic bacteria and the medium disposed in the interior of the reaction chamber. An inventive apparatus further includes an anode at least partially contained within the interior of the reaction chamber; and a brush or mesh cathode including stainless steel, nickel or titanium, the cathode at least partially contained within the interior of the reaction chamber. | 05-13-2010 |
| 20100092998 | METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS RELATING TO E3 RING-E2 FUSION PROTEINS - Compositions are provided according to embodiments of the present invention which include an isolated fusion protein including an E3 protein RING motif bonded to an UCE E2 protein. In preferred embodiments, the C-terminus of the E3 protein RING motif is bonded to the N-terminus of the UCE E2 protein by an intervening peptide linker. Optionally, the peptide linker is 5-50 amino acids. Preferred is a peptide linker of 15-20 amino acids. Methods of identifying ubiquitylation modulators are provided according to embodiments of the present invention which include contacting an isolated fusion protein including an E3 protein RING motif bonded to an UCE E2 protein with a ubiquitylation substrate in the presence of a test substance. Ubiquitylation of the ubiquitylation substrate is then detected to determine the effect of the test substance on ubiquitylation of the ubiquitylation substrate. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100075170 | POLYCRYSTALLINE COMPLEX-SHAPED MESOSCALE COMPONENTS - A polycrystalline mesoscale component is provided that has an overall length L divided into multiple segments with a second segment extending from a first segment at a nonlinear angle. The first segment has a first segment height H | 03-25-2010 |
| 20100068592 | Electrodes for use in hydrocarbon-based membrane electrode assemblies of direct oxidation fuel cells - Electrodes for use in direct oxidation fuel cells (DOFCs) comprise, in sequence: an electrically conductive gas diffusion layer; a catalyst layer; and a proton-conducting layer. Membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) comprise cathode and anode electrodes of such type sandwiching a proton conductive polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM), with the proton-conducting layer of the electrodes in contact with opposite surfaces of the PEM. Also disclosed is a method for fabricating the MEAs. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100068521 | TREATMENT OF MELT QUENCHED ALUMINOSILICATE GLASS SPHERES FOR APPLICATION AS PROPPANTS VIA DEVITRIFICATION PROCESSES - A process for increasing toughness of glass particulates is provided. The process includes providing an aluminosilicate glass particulate, the glass particulate generally having the form of a sphere, and heating the glass particulate to a temperature greater than 600° C. for a predetermined time. Thereafter, the glass particulate can be cooled to ambient temperature and the heating step can alter the failure mechanism of the glass particulate from a high energy failure that produces generally fine powder to a lower energy failure that produces generally large fragments. The glass particulate can be an amorphous glass particulate and may or may not have a nominal composition that corresponds to rhyolite, basalt, tholeiite, olivine and/or andesite. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100066366 | Adaptive Signal Averaging Method Which Enhances the Sensitivity of Continuous Wave Magnetic Resonance and Other Analytical Measurements - This method of adaptive signal averaging is used to enhance the signal to noise ratio of magnetic resonance and other analytical measurements which involve repeatable signals partially or completely obscured by noise in a single measurement at a rate much faster than that observed with conventional signal averaging. This technique expedites the signal averaging process because it filters each individual scan in real time with an adaptive algorithm and then averages them separately to provide an averaged filtered signal with less noise. This technique is particularly useful for any type of continuous wave magnetic resonance experiment or any other noisy measurement where signal averaging is utilized. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100040815 | Energy Absorbing Stitch Ripping Composite Tubes Containing Collapsible Cells - An energy absorbing system has an inner tube and an outer tube that are stitched together. The inner tube contains a set of fibers oriented in a first direction and the outer tube has a second set of fibers oriented in a direction different from the first direction. Preferably these orientations are equal and opposite to each other. The inner tube may be hollow, but preferably has a cellular core. The outer tube may be spaced apart from the inner tube to create an annular cavity that is filled with a cellular material. | 02-18-2010 |
| 20100029906 | Synthetic mimics of mammalian cell surface receptors: method and compositions - The present invention relates to new synthetic receptors. More particularly, the present invention relates to the use of the synthetic receptors for delivering a protein, peptide, drug, prodrug, lipid, nucleic acid, carbohydrate or small molecule into a target cell via receptor-mediated endocytosis. According to the invention, novel synthetic mimics of cell surface receptors have been designed and methods for use of the same are disclosed. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20100017342 | ASSET ALLOCATION BASED ON EXPECTED UTILITY OF TIME AND WEALTH - A method and system for providing financial advice to individuals that includes outputting a target asset allocation for an individual and a critical wealth, a retirement wealth, a utility function, or a combination thereof. The target asset allocation includes a target securities allocation and is computed using a function analyzing a trade-off between retirement time and retirement consumption of the individual. The method includes computing a critical wealth of the individual, a retirement wealth of the individual, and a wealth utility function of the individual. A determination of whether the individual is in a wealth maximizing phase or a critical wealth phase is made. The determination is based on whether the individual has a current wealth equal to or greater than the calculated critical wealth threshold. Having determined the relevant wealth phase, a target asset allocation for the current assets of the individual is computed. | 01-21-2010 |
| 20090318462 | PROTEIN KINASE C ZETA INHIBITION TO TREAT VASCULAR PERMEABILITY - Methods of treating or preventing a disease or disorder in a subject are provided by the present invention which include administering a composition including a therapeutically effective amount of a protein kinase C (PKC) zeta inhibitor. A disease or disorder treated or prevented by administration of a PKC zeta inhibitor is characterized by abnormal vascular permeability. Diseases or disorders treated or prevented by administration of a composition including a therapeutically effective amount of a PKC zeta inhibitor include cancer, an ischemic condition and microvascular complications of a systemic or local condition in the subject, such as diabetes and/or diabetic macular edema. Additionally, methods of inhibiting PKC zeta are provided which include incubating PKC zeta in vivo, in vitro and/or in silico with a PKC zeta inhibitor. | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090317882 | ELECTROMETHANOGENIC REACTOR AND PROCESSES FOR METHANE PRODUCTION - Increasing competition for fossil fuels, and the need to avoid release carbon dioxide from combustion of these fuels requires development of new and sustainable approaches for energy production and carbon capture. Biological processes for producing methane gas and capturing carbon from carbon dioxide are provided according to embodiments of the present invention which include providing an electromethanogenic reactor having an anode, a cathode and a plurality of methanogenic microorganisms disposed on the cathode. Electrons and carbon dioxide are provided to the plurality of methanogenic microorganisms disposed on the cathode. The methanogenic microorganisms reduce the carbon dioxide to produce methane gas, even in the absence of hydrogen and/or organic carbon sources. | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090311213 | METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR TREATMENT OF RETINOID-RESPONSIVE CONDITIONS - Methods and composition for treating a retinoid-responsive condition in a subject are provided according to embodiments of the present invention which include administering a therapeutically effective amount of a substance selected from the group consisting of: neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), an NGAL analog, an NGAL stimulator and an analog of an NGAL stimulator, to a subject having a retinoid-responsive condition. Retinoid-responsive conditions illustratively include acne, rosacea, psoriasis, promyelocytic leukemia and neuroblastoma. | 12-17-2009 |
| 20090308685 | DIPOLE FLOW DRIVEN RESONATORS FOR FAN NOISE MITIGATION - A fan system includes a rotor supported for rotation about a fan axis. The rotor has a central hub and a plurality of blades each extending outwardly from the hub to a tip. The rotor blades define a rotor plane perpendicular to the fan axis. A first acoustic resonator has an opening disposed on a first side of the rotor plane and a second acoustic resonator has an opening disposed on a second side of the rotor plane. The acoustic resonators are configured to provide a dipole resonator system operable to at least partially reduce a blade pass frequency tone in an upstream and a downstream direction simultaneously. | 12-17-2009 |
| 20090298085 | Detection of Extracellular Tumor-Associated Nucleic Acid in Blood Plasma or Serum Using Nucleic Acid Amplification Assays - This invention relates to detection of specific extracellular nucleic acid in plasma or serum fractions of human or animal blood associated with neoplastic or proliferative disease. Specifically, the invention relates to detection of nucleic acid derived from mutant oncogenes or other tumor-associated DNA, and to those methods of detecting and monitoring extracellular mutant oncogenes or tumor-associated DNA found in the plasma or serum fraction of blood by using rapid DNA extraction followed by nucleic acid amplification with or without enrichment for mutant DNA. In particular, the invention relates to the detection, identification, or monitoring of the existence, progression or clinical status of benign, premalignant, or malignant neoplasms in humans or other animals that contain a mutation that is associated with the neoplasm through detection of the mutated nucleic acid of the neoplasm in plasma or serum fractions. The invention permits the detection of extracellular, tumor-associated nucleic acid in the serum or plasma of humans or other animals recognized as having a neoplastic or proliferative disease or in individuals without any prior history or diagnosis of neoplastic or proliferative disease. The invention provides the ability to detect extracellular nucleic acid derived from genetic sequences known to be associated with neoplasia, such as oncogenes, as well as genetic sequences previously unrecognized as being associated with neoplastic or proliferative disease. The invention thereby provides methods for early identification of colorectal, pancreatic, lung, breast, bladder, ovarian, lymphoma and all other malignancies carrying tumor-related mutations of DNA and methods for monitoring cancer and other neoplastic disorders in humans and other animals. | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090296223 | FLAT TRANSFORMATIONAL ELECTROMAGNETIC LENSES - Examples of the present invention include methods and apparatus for modification of electromagnetic waves, including lenses with generally parallel flat surfaces. Lenses may comprise metamaterials, dielectric materials (such as glass), plastics, and the like. Lenses may have an index profile corresponding to a coordinate transformation for the desired effect on the electromagnetic waves. | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090293345 | Blends of Synthetic Distillate and Biodiesel for Low Nitrogen Oxide Emissions from Diesel Engines - This invention shows how to make and use a biodiesel-based fuel in diesel engines without incurring the NO | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090286839 | PHYTONUTRIENT COMPOSITIONS FROM MUSHROOMS OR FILAMENTOUS FUNGI AND METHODS OF USE - This invention is directed to treating disease states or conditions associated with the treatment and prevention of neurodegeneration and neurodegenerative disease states, and treatment of radiation damage. The invention relates to novel phytonutrient compositions and compounds comprising L-ergothioneine and/or selenium. The invention also provides a method of administering these compositions and combinations to humans or animals in need thereof. | 11-19-2009 |
| 20090280166 | FERRITIN AS A THERAPEUTIC TARGET IN ABNORMAL CELLS - Compositions for treatment of iron related diseases comprise an inhibitor of ferritin. An inhibitor of ferritin is active to reduce the level of H ferritin protein in a cell and/or to reduce the activity of H ferritin in a cell. Compositions providing cytoprotection, regulation of iron, increasing longevity and viability of cells are described. | 11-12-2009 |
| 20090269441 | Methods and compositions for improving the nutritional content of mushrooms and fungi - An improved filamentous fungi is disclosed that has an enhanced nutritional profile by utilizing pulsed ultraviolet irradiation. According to the invention, the vitamin D component of mushrooms and other filamentous fungi may be drastically increased with no deleterious affects on appearance with the use of pulsed UV radiation. Mushrooms so treated had up to 1800% DV in one serving of fresh mushrooms. | 10-29-2009 |
| 20090255194 | TRANSPARENT SUSTAINABLE WALL SYSTEM - A sustainable energy saving wall utilizing recyclable materials is disclosed for use in construction where the wall provides natural light to the interior of the structure while also providing support without the need for further load bearing structure. | 10-15-2009 |
| 20090242405 | BOTTOM-UP ASSEMBLY OF STRUCTURES ON A SUBSTRATE - Examples of the present invention include methods of assembling structures, such as nanostructures, at predetermined locations on a substrate. A voltage between spaced-apart electrodes supported by substrate attracts the structures to the substrate, and positional registration can be provided the substrate using topographic features such as wells. Examples of the present invention also include devices, such as electronic and optoelectronic devices, prepared by such methods. | 10-01-2009 |
| 20090241209 | HIGH LYCOPENE CONTENT TOMATO PLANTS AND MARKERS FOR USE IN BREEDING FOR SAME - plants which are exceptionally high in fruit lycopene content (˜300-390 μg lycopene/g fresh fruit) are disclosed herein, which may be used in plant breeding to make the tomato plants of the present invention. The invention also discloses genetic markers, which are associated with the trait which may be used in marker-assisted selection for development of plants, lines, or varieties with the trait. | 09-24-2009 |
| 20090204637 | REAL-TIME COMPUTERIZED ANNOTATION OF PICTURES - A computerized annotation method achieves real-time operation and better optimization properties while preserving the architectural advantages of the generative modeling approach. A novel clustering algorithm for objects is represented by discrete distributions, or bags of weighted vectors, thereby minimizing the total within cluster distance, a criterion used by the k-means algorithm. A new mixture modeling method, the hypothetical local mapping (HLM) method, is used to efficiently build a probability measure on the space of discrete distributions. Thus, in accord with the invention every image is characterized by a statistical distribution. The profiling model specifies a probability law for distributions directly. | 08-13-2009 |
| 20090201221 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REDUCED COUPLING AND INTERFERENCE BETWEEN ANTENNAS - Examples of the present invention include antennas and scattering elements having a metamaterial cloak configured so as to reduce effects on the operating parameters of a nearby antenna. For example, an antenna has an antenna frequency, and a cloak is disposed around the antenna having a frequency range in which the cloak is operative. The antenna frequency can lie outside the frequency range of the cloak, whereas the frequency of a second antenna lies within the frequency range of the cloak. In this case, the antenna is cloaked relative to the second antenna. | 08-13-2009 |
| 20090198071 | TETRAPHOSPHORUS LIGANDS FOR CATALYTIC HYDROFORMYLATION AND RELATED REACTIONS - Tetraphosphorous ligands are combined with transition metal salts to form catalysts for use in hydroformylation, isomerization-hydroformylation, hydrocarboxylation, hydrocyan-ation, isomerization-formylation, hydroaminomethylation and similar related reactions. | 08-06-2009 |
| 20090198031 | ONE-POT PROCESS AND REAGENTS FOR PREPARING LONG CHAIN BRANCHED POLYMERS - A one-pot polymerization process of preparing long chain branching polymers is provided. Also described is a “T” reagent that serves as a link between main and side chains of an inventive long chain branching polymer. A “T” reagent has at least two functionalities, serving as both co-monomer and chain transfer reaction agent. Optionally, a copolymerization reaction between an alpha-olefin and “T” reagent takes place initially to incorporate some “T” molecules in the polyolefin main chain, and the incorporated “T” units then behave as chain transfer agents for reacting with the propagating polyolefin chains to form side chains. In a particular embodiment, a polymerization process for preparing long chain branching polyethylene (LCBPE) and long chain branching polypropylene (LCBPP) is detailed. | 08-06-2009 |
| 20090197848 | Synthetic mimics of mammalian cell surface receptors: method and compositions - The present invention relates to new synthetic receptors. More particularly, the present invention relates to the use of the synthetic receptors for delivering a protein, peptide, drug, prodrug, lipid, nucleic acid, carbohydrate or small molecule into a target cell via receptor-mediated endocytosis. According to the invention, novel synthetic mimics of cell surface receptors have been designed and methods for use of the same are disclosed. | 08-06-2009 |
| 20090159455 | BIO-ELECTROCHEMICALLY ASSISTED MICROBIAL REACTOR THAT GENERATES HYDROGEN GAS AND METHODS OF GENERATING HYDROGEN GAS - Systems and processes for producing hydrogen using bacteria are described. One detailed process for producing hydrogen uses a system for producing hydrogen as described herein, the system including a reactor. Anodophilic bacteria are disposed within the interior of the reactor and an organic material oxidizable by an oxidizing activity of the anodophilic bacteria is introduced and incubated under oxidizing reactions conditions such that electrons are produced and transferred to the anode. A power source is activated to increase a potential between the anode and the cathode, such that electrons and protons combine to produce hydrogen gas. In one system for producing hydrogen is provided which includes a reaction chamber having a wall defining an interior of the reactor and an exterior of the reaction chamber. An anode is provided which is at least partially contained within the interior of the reaction chamber and a cathode is also provided which is at least partially contained within the interior of the reaction chamber. The cathode is spaced apart at a distance in the range between 0.1-100 centimeters, inclusive, from the anode. A conductive conduit for electrons is provided which is in electrical communication with the anode and the cathode and a power source for enhancing an electrical potential between the anode and cathode is included which is in electrical communication at least with the cathode. A first channel defining a passage from the exterior of the reaction chamber to the interior of the reaction chamber is also included. | 06-25-2009 |
| 20090156895 | PRECISE ENDOSCOPIC PLANNING AND VISUALIZATION - Endoscopic poses are used to indicate the exact location and direction in which a physician must orient the endoscope to sample a region of interest (ROI) in an airway tree or other luminal structure. Using a patient-specific model of the anatomy derived from a 3D MDCT image, poses are chosen to be realizable given the physical characteristics of the endoscope and the relative geometry of the patient's airways and the ROI. To help ensure the safety of the patient, the calculations also account for obstacles such as the aorta and pulmonary arteries, precluding the puncture of these sensitive blood vessels. A real-time visualization system conveys the calculated pose orientation and the quality of any arbitrary bronchoscopic pose orientation. A suggested pose orientation is represented as an icon within a virtual rendering of the patient's airway tree or other structure. The location and orientation of the icon indicates the suggested pose orientation to which the physician should align during the procedure. | 06-18-2009 |
| 20090145233 | CARBON NANOTUBE-QUARTZ RESONATOR WITH FEMTOGRAM RESOLUTION - Methods for sensing and building sensors provide for adding nanotubes to a sensor to improve characteristics such as the Q-factor associated with the sensor. Mass loading and damping characteristics of micromachined quartz crystal resonators on which a thin film of debundled single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) has been deposited are disclosed. An absolute mass sensitivity of ˜100 fg was experimentally measured by monitoring the continuous desorption of gases from SWNT surfaces in a vacuum ambient. | 06-11-2009 |
| 20090143241 | ANTIBACTERIAL AND PLASMID ELIMINATION AGENTS - Inhibitors of the tmRNA pathway have antibacterial activity with broad species specificity, including | 06-04-2009 |
| 20090118145 | METHOD FOR PRODUCING PROPPANT USING A DOPANT - A method for producing sintered pellets and sintered pellets produced therefrom including mixing a dopant with water and kaolin clay to form substantially round and spherical green pellets and sintering the pellets to form a proppant. The dopant is selected from the group consisting of potassium carbonate, potassium sulfate, potassium chloride, mica, kalsilite, and combinations thereof. | 05-07-2009 |
| 20090117081 | PARVOVIRUS METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR KILLING NEOPLASTIC CELLS - According to the invention, parvoviruses such as the adeno-associated virus Type 2 (AAV2) are found to be oncolytic, selectively mediating apoptosis in cancer cells and their precursers, while leaving healthy cells intact. The invention thus comprises a method of killing cancer and other neoplastic and preneoplastic cells by administration of AAV2 virus, viral particles, products or replication incompetent vectors derived there from to said cells, and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the same. | 05-07-2009 |
| 20090108507 | Method for manufacture of transparent ceramics - The disclosed invention relates to a method of manufacture of transparent ceramics such as yttrium aluminum garnet by tape casting. The method entails forming a mixture of ceramic oxide, dispersant and organic solvent, milling the mixture to produce a first slurry, mixing the first slurry with an organic binder and a plasticizer to form a treated slurry, milling the treated slurry to produce milled slurry, tape casting the milled slurry to produce cast tape, drying the cast tape to produce dried tape, stacking portions of dried tape to form an assembly, compressing the assembly to produce a preform, heating the preform to produce a green preform, and sintering the green preform to produce transparent yttrium aluminum garnet. The method may be used to produce a unitary ceramic product having differing transparent sections as well as transparent ceramic product having a dopant gradient across a portion of the thickness of the product. | 04-30-2009 |
| 20090083332 | TAGGING OVER TIME: REAL-WORLD IMAGE ANNOTATION BY LIGHTWEIGHT METALEARNING - A principled, probabilistic approach to meta-learning acts as a go-between for a ‘black-box’ image annotation system and its users. Inspired by inductive transfer, the approach harnesses available information, including the black-box model's performance, the image representations, and a semantic lexicon ontology. Being computationally ‘lightweight.’ the meta-learner efficiently re-trains over time, to improve and/or adapt to changes. The black-box annotation model is not required to be re-trained, allowing computationally intensive algorithms to be used. Both batch and online annotation settings are accommodated. A “tagging over time” approach produces progressively better annotation, significantly outperforming the black-box as well as the static form of the meta-learner, on real-world data. | 03-26-2009 |
| 20090069827 | REVERSIBLE VASECTOMY DEVICE AND METHOD - A reversible vasectomy device includes a first and a second connector piece for attachment to the severed ends of the vas deferens. Each connector piece has an outer vas deferens attaching end, an opposite inner end, and a passage from the outer to the inner end. A midpiece has end portions that are connectable to the inner ends of the connector pieces, a passage in one end portion and a vent from the passage to an exterior surface. When the connector pieces are connected to the end portions, the passage in one of the connector pieces is in fluid communication with the vent, but is not in fluid communication with the passage in the other connector piece. | 03-12-2009 |
| 20090066936 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL (3D) HYDRODYNAMIC FOCUSING USING A MICROFLUIDIC DEVICE - A microfluidic device comprises inlets for a sample flow and an out-of-plane focusing sheath flow, and a curved channel section configured to receive the sample flow and out-of-plane focusing sheath and to provide hydrodynamic focusing of the sample flow in an out-of-plane direction, the out-of-plane direction being normal to a plane including the curved channel. | 03-12-2009 |
| 20090065400 | Oxidatively regenerable adsorbents for sulfur removal - Compositions and processes are disclosed for removing sulfur and sulfur compounds from hydrocarbon fuel feedstocks. The feedstock is contacted with a regenerable sorbent such as a compound of the formula Ti | 03-12-2009 |
| 20090064476 | PIEZOELECTRIC MATERIALS BASED ON FLEXOELECTRIC CHARGE SEPARATION AND THEIR FABRICATION - An example flexoelectric piezoelectric material has a piezoelectric response, which may be a direct piezoelectric effect, a converse piezoelectric effect, both effects, or only one effect. A flexoelectric piezoelectric material comprises shaped elements of a material, which may be a substantially isotropic and centrosymmetric material. The shaped elements, such as cones, pyramids, wedges, or other tapered elements, may provide an electrical response in response to stress or strain gradients due to a flexoelectric effect in the material, and may provide a mechanical response in response to electric field gradients. Examples of the present invention include improved methods of fabricating devices comprising such shaped elements, and multi-layer devices having improved properties. | 03-12-2009 |
| 20090061412 | Methods for Detecting Papillomavirus DNA in Blood Plasma and Serum - This invention relates to the detection of extracellular papillomavirus DNA in blood plasma or serum from a human or animal. In particular, the invention relates to the detection, identification, evaluation, or monitoring of neoplastic, premalignant or malignant disease associated with a papillomavirus. The invention thereby provides methods for the identification of individuals at risk for, or having, cervical dysplasia, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, or cervical cancer. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090060743 | Expandable impeller pump - An impeller includes a hub, and a plurality of blades supported by the hub, the blades being arranged in at least two blade rows. The impeller has a deployed configuration in which the blades extend away from the hub, and a stored configuration in which at least one of the blades is radially compressed, for example by folding the blade towards the hub. The impeller may also have an operational configuration in which at least some of the blades are deformed from the deployed configuration upon rotation of the impeller when in the deployed configuration. The outer edge of one or more blades may have a winglet, and the base of the blades may have an associated indentation to facilitate folding of the blades. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090044292 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS RELATING TO TRANSGENIC PLANTS AND CELLULOSIC ETHANOL PRODUCTION - Transgenic lignocellulosic plants are provided according to embodiments of the present invention, the transgenic plants transformed with an expression cassette encoding a protein operably linked to a signal peptide which targets the protein to a cell wall of the transgenic plant, where at least 5% of the total amino acid residues of the protein are tyrosine, lysine, serine, threonine or cysteine. Methods of increasing lignin-protein bonds in a lignocellulosic plant are provided according to embodiments of the present invention which include expressing a recombinant nucleic acid in a lignocellulosic plant, the recombinant nucleic acid encoding a protein operably linked to a signal peptide which targets the protein to the cell wall of a plant, where at least 5% of the total amino acid residues of the protein are tyrosine, lysine, serine, threonine or cysteine. | 02-12-2009 |
| 20090042091 | Supported catalyst layers for direct oxidation fuel cells - A method of fabricating a supported catalyst layer for use in a fuel cell electrode, comprises sequential steps of: combining a fluid ink including a supported catalyst comprising at least one precious metal or alloy supported on particles of a support material, and a solution of at least one ionomeric polymer material, with at least one pore-forming material; forming a layer of the combined ink on a surface of a sheet of support material; hot pressing the layer; and treating the hot-pressed layer to remove pore-forming material to form a supported catalyst layer. | 02-12-2009 |
| 20090042078 | Surface-treated hydrocarbon-based polymer electrolyte membranes for direct oxidation fuel cells - A proton (H | 02-12-2009 |
| 20090039884 | CONTINUOUS WAVE NUCLEAR QUADRUPOLE RESONANCE SPECTROMETER - Apparatus and methods for locating a nuclear quadrupole resonance are described. In an example method, a search frequency is adjusted using a blind search until a resonance absorption of an analyte is detected, and then an extremum seeking search to be used to locate an extremum frequency. | 02-12-2009 |
| 20080314166 | Aerodynamic Sampler For Chemical/Biological Trace Detection - An aerodynamic sampler for sampling particles from a surface or a flowing gas stream is provided. The sampler can include an arcuate-shaped shroud having a first opening and a second opening, the first opening being directed in a first direction and the second opening oppositely disposed and spaced apart from the first opening. A gas nozzle having at least one gas outlet directed generally in the first direction can be included and may or may not be located at least partially within the shroud. The gas nozzle is operable to supply a gas jet to a surface that is proximate the first opening of the shroud. In addition, a suction device operable to pull or suck the gas proximate the first opening through the second opening and afford for the gas to enter a detector is provided. The arcuate-shaped shroud can be a bell-shaped shroud with the first opening located at a bottom of the bell-shape. | 12-25-2008 |
| 20080309198 | ACOUSTIC TRANSDUCER - An electroacoustic transducer having a tail mass, a head mass and at least two parallelepiped shaped piezoelectric material elements disposed between and attached to the tail mass and the head mass is provided. The tail mass has a body extending between a first end and a second end, the body having a cavity with a cavity wall and the cavity extending from the first end towards the second end. The head mass has a head and an elongated shaft attached to and extending from the head, the shaft having a shaft axis and being located at least partially within the cavity of the tail mass. The at least two parallelepiped shaped piezoelectric material elements are made from a piezoelectric material having a non-zero d | 12-18-2008 |
| 20080306148 | ANTI-CANCER COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS - Anti-cancer compositions and methods are described including one or more isothiocyanates and/or isoselenocyanates. Methods of treating a subject are provided according to embodiments of the present invention which include administering a therapeutically effective amount of a composition including an isothiocyanate and/or isoselenocyanate to a subject having a condition characterized by Akt dysregulation. Administering a therapeutically effective amount of a composition including an isothiocyanate and/or isoselenocyanate to a subject detectably increases apoptosis and/or decreases proliferation of cancer cells, particularly cancer cells characterized by Akt dysregulation. | 12-11-2008 |
| 20080293953 | Chiral spiro compounds and their use in asymmetric catalytic reactions - The present invention provides a chiral ligand, represented by a formula or its enantiomer: | 11-27-2008 |
| 20080292912 | ELECTRODES AND METHODS FOR MICROBIAL FUEL CELLS - Methods of improving a performance parameter of a microbial fuel cell are provided according to embodiments of the present invention which include heating an electrode and exposing the heated electrode to ammonia gas to produce a treated electrode characterized by an increased positive surface charge on the electrode surface. Improved performance parameters include increased maximum power density, increased coulombic efficiency, increased volumetric power density and decreased microbial fuel cell operation time to achieve maximum power density | 11-27-2008 |
| 20080286880 | Methods and Systems for Nanoparticle Enhancement of Signals - Methods and systems for utilizing metal nanoparticles to enhance optical (UV, visible, and IR, as appropriate) signals from a reporting entity are presented. The methods and systems of this invention do not require the nanoparticles to be attached or adhered to a surface, assembled in a matrix or coated with a spacer coating. | 11-20-2008 |
| 20080285860 | STUDYING AESTHETICS IN PHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGES USING A COMPUTATIONAL APPROACH - The aesthetic quality of a picture is automatically inferred using visual content as a machine learning problem using, for example, a peer-rated, on-line photo sharing Website as data source. Certain visual features of images are extracted based on the intuition that they can discriminate between aesthetically pleasing and displeasing images. A one-dimensional support vector machine is used to identify features that have noticeable correlation with the community-based aesthetics ratings. Automated classifiers are constructed using the support vector machines and classification trees, with a simple feature selection heuristic being applied to eliminate irrelevant features. Linear regression on polynomial terms of the features is also applied to infer numerical aesthetics ratings. | 11-20-2008 |
| 20080277034 | STRAIN WEAKENING OF METALLIC MATERIALS - A method for controlling the work hardening of a metal component during cold forming by using an electric current passing through the component is provided. The method can include providing a cold forming machine with at least a pair of dies, the machine operable to perform a cold forming operation and apply an electric direct current to a metal component placed in contact with the dies. In addition, the method includes providing a metal component and placing the metal component between the at least a pair of dies. Thereafter, cold forming of the metal component is performed with an electric direct current applied to the component during at least part of the time the component is being cold formed. In some instances, the cold forming is compressive cold forming. The direct current can be applied before or after the cold forming has started and/or be terminated before or after the cold forming has stopped. | 11-13-2008 |
| 20080265212 | Sulfur-tolerant and carbon-resistant catalysts - The invention relates to novel bimetallic and trimetallic catalysts, their manufacture and use in both steam reforming and oxidative steam reforming of liquid fuels such as jet fuels, diesel fuels and gasoline to produce synthesis gas and/or hydrogen for fuel cell applications. The invention further relates to manufacture of synthesis gas and/or hydrogen gas for chemicals synthesis and fuel processing. The catalysts have high sulfur tolerance and carbon resistance when used in steam reforming and/or oxidative steam reforming of heavy hydrocarbon fuels. | 10-30-2008 |
| 20080264254 | Novel sorbents and purification and bulk separation of gas streams - Porous-material-supported polymer sorbents and process for removal of undesirable gases such as H | 10-30-2008 |
| 20080257356 | CONTROL TIP FOR SUPRAGLOTTIC AIRWAY DEVICE - An airway device for a patient is provided. The airway device can include an airway tube having a proximal end and a distal end, and a mask connected to and in fluid communication with the distal end of the airway tube. The mask has a flexible tip portion spaced apart from the distal end of the airway tube and is also configured to be disposed in sealing communication with a laryngeal inlet of the patient's airway. Also included is a control device that has a distal end attached to the flexible tip portion of the mask and a proximal end that is spaced apart therefrom. The control device is operable to flex the flexible tip portion of the mask in a direction towards the proximal end of the airway tube and thereby prevent said portion from folding back on itself in a direction away from the laryngeal inlet. | 10-23-2008 |
| 20080254062 | USE OF AN AVIRULENT BORDETELLA MUTANT AS A LIVE VACCINE VECTOR - The present invention pertains to | 10-16-2008 |
| 20080253971 | Particles for inhalation having sustained release properties - The invention generally relates to a method for pulmonary delivery of therapeutic, prophylactic and diagnostic agents to a patient wherein the agent is released in a sustained fashion, and to particles suitable for use in the method. In particular, the invention relates to a method for the pulmonary delivery of a therapeutic, prophylactic or diagnostic agent comprising administering to the respiratory tract of a patient in need of treatment, prophylaxis or diagnosis an effective amount of particles comprising a therapeutic, prophylactic or diagnostic agent or any combination thereof in association with a charged lipid, wherein the charged lipid has an overall net charge which is opposite to that of the agent upon association with the agent. Release of the agent from the administered particles occurs in a sustained fashion. | 10-16-2008 |
| 20080249045 | MGAL: A GAL Gene Switch-Based Suite of Methods for Protein Analyses and Protein Expression in Multicellular Organisms and Cells Therefrom - The invention provides methods for detecting and analyzing protein-protein interactions and agonists and antagonists thereof, detecting and analyzing protein sequences, and regulatable gene expression in multicellular organisms or cells therefrom. | 10-09-2008 |
| 20080238294 | MIST FABRICATION OF QUANTUM DOT DEVICES - An example quantum dot (QD) device comprises a QD layer on a substrate, and may be fabricated by aerosol deposition, for example by mist deposition. An example approach includes providing a liquid precursor including QDs dispersed in a liquid carrier, generating a mist of droplets of the liquid precursor, directing the droplets towards the substrate so as to form a liquid precursor film on the substrate, and removing the liquid carrier from the liquid precursor film to form the quantum dot layer on the substrate. Example devices include multi-color QD-LED (light emitting diode) displays, and other devices. | 10-02-2008 |
| 20080233569 | Detection of Extracellular Tumor-Associated Nucleic Acid in Blood Plasma or Serum Using Nucleic Acid Amplification Assays - This invention relates to detection of specific extracellular nucleic acid in plasma or serum fractions of human or animal blood associated with neoplastic or proliferative disease. Specifically, the invention relates to detection of nucleic acid derived from mutant oncogenes or other tumor-associated DNA, and to those methods of detecting and monitoring extracellular mutant oncogenes or tumor-associated DNA found in the plasma or serum fraction of blood by using rapid DNA extraction followed by nucleic acid amplification with or without enrichment for mutant DNA. In particular, the invention relates to the detection, identification, or monitoring of the existence, progression or clinical status of benign, premalignant, or malignant neoplasms in humans or other animals that contain a mutation that is associated with the neoplasm through detection of the mutated nucleic acid of the neoplasm in plasma or serum fractions. The invention permits the detection of extracellular, tumor-associated nucleic acid in the serum or plasma of humans or other animals recognized as having a neoplastic or proliferative disease or in individuals without any prior history or diagnosis of neoplastic or proliferative disease. The invention provides the ability to detect extracellular nucleic acid derived from genetic sequences known to be associated with neoplasia, such as oncogenes, as well as genetic sequences previously unrecognized as being associated with neoplastic or proliferative disease. The invention thereby provides methods for early identification of colorectal, pancreatic, lung, breast, bladder, ovarian, lymphoma and all other malignancies carrying tumor-related mutations of DNA and methods for monitoring cancer and other neoplastic disorders in humans and other animals. | 09-25-2008 |
| 20080233568 | Detection of Extracellular Tumor-Associated Nucleic Acid in Blood Plasma or Serum Using Nucleic Acid Amplification Assays - This invention relates to detection of specific extracellular nucleic acid in plasma or serum fractions of human or animal blood associated with neoplastic or proliferative disease. Specifically, the invention relates to detection of nucleic acid derived from mutant oncogenes or other tumor-associated DNA, and to those methods of detecting and monitoring extracellular mutant oncogenes or tumor-associated DNA found in the plasma or serum fraction of blood by using rapid DNA extraction followed by nucleic acid amplification with or without enrichment for mutant DNA. In particular, the invention relates to the detection, identification, or monitoring of the existence, progression or clinical status of benign, premalignant, or malignant neoplasms in humans or other animals that contain a mutation that is associated with the neoplasm through detection of the mutated nucleic acid of the neoplasm in plasma or serum fractions. The invention permits the detection of extracellular, tumor-associated nucleic acid in the serum or plasma of humans or other animals recognized as having a neoplastic or proliferative disease or in individuals without any prior history or diagnosis of neoplastic or proliferative disease. The invention provides the ability to detect extracellular nucleic acid derived from genetic sequences known to be associated with neoplasia, such as oncogenes, as well as genetic sequences previously unrecognized as being associated with neoplastic or proliferative disease. The invention thereby provides methods for early identification of colorectal, pancreatic, lung, breast, bladder, ovarian, lymphoma and all other malignancies carrying tumor-related mutations of DNA and methods for monitoring cancer and other neoplastic disorders in humans and other animals. | 09-25-2008 |
| 20080221379 | Composition And Method To Control Acid Rock Drainage - A composition to control acid rock drainage is provided. The composition includes a slurry made from water and solids, the solids containing powders of limestone, clay and magnesium oxide or magnesium hydroxide. In some instances, the slurry is thixotropic and contains between 10 to 75 weight percent of solid powders. The solid powders can include between 40 to 75 weight percent limestone, 10 to 35 weight percent clay and 10 to 30 weight percent magnesium oxide or a proportional concentration of magnesium hydroxide. | 09-11-2008 |
| 20080207997 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTINUOUS GUIDANCE OF ENDOSCOPY - Methods and apparatus provide continuous guidance of endoscopy during a live procedure. A data-set based on 3D image data is pre-computed including reference information representative of a predefined route through a body organ to a final destination. A plurality of live real endoscopic (RE) images are displayed as an operator maneuvers an endoscope within the body organ. A registration and tracking algorithm registers the data-set to one or more of the RE images and continuously maintains the registration as the endoscope is locally maneuvered. Additional information related to the final destination is then presented enabling the endoscope operator to decide on a final maneuver for the procedure. The reference information may include 3D organ surfaces, 3D routes through an organ system, or 3D regions of interest (ROIs), as well as a virtual endoscopic (VE) image generated from the precomputed data-set. The preferred method includes the step of superimposing one or both of the 3D routes and ROIs on one or both of the RE and VE images. The 3D organ surfaces and routes may correspond to the surfaces and paths of a tracheobronchial airway tree extracted, for example, from 3D MDCT images of the chest. | 08-28-2008 |
| 20080206450 | Thin metal film conductors and their manufacture - Metal solutions such as copper and nickel suitable for chemical solution deposition (CSD) are disclosed, and their manufacture into low resistivity thin metal films is disclosed. The films may be thermal processed at relatively low temperatures and may be co-fired with ultra low fire high K ceramic dielectrics. | 08-28-2008 |
| 20080206255 | ANTIBODY CANCER IMMUNOTHERAPY - A method for stimulating a immune response against IL-13Rα2 in a subject having or at risk for developing a disease having cells expressing IL-13Rα2 includes the steps of formulating the anti-cancer vaccine outside of the subject and administering the vaccine to the subject in an amount sufficient to stimulate an immune response against IL-13Rα2 in the subject. A composition for stimulating a immune response against IL-13Rα2 in a subject having or at risk for developing a disease having cells expressing IL-13Rα2 includes an isolated agent that can stimulate immune response against IL-13α2. | 08-28-2008 |
| 20080206139 | DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC AGENTS - Nanovesicles are specifically targeted to abnormal cells. The targeting moiety is conjugated to the nanovesicle which comprises a therapeutic composition. These nanovesicles are useful in treatment of a wide spectrum of disorders. | 08-28-2008 |
| 20080201123 | Increased activity and efficiency of expansin-like proteins - The invention relates to crystal structure and activities of Beta-expansins and grass pollen allergens and identification of key regions essential to maximize activity and to identify sequence motifs which correlate with activity. | 08-21-2008 |
