THE JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20160136255 | VACCINATION WITH RECOMBINANT MYCOBACTERIUM TUBERCULOSIS PknD ATTENUATES BACTERIAL DISSEMINATION TO THE BRAIN - Vaccines comprising | 05-19-2016 |
20160130585 | APTAMERS FOR THE TREATMENT OF SICKLE CELL DISEASE - The present invention provides polynucleotide aptamers that selectively bind to and inhibit polymerization of sickle hemoglobin (HbS), pharmaceutical compositions comprising the same, methods of use for diagnostics and treatment of sickle cell disease, methods of use as capture reagents, and methods of rational drug design. | 05-12-2016 |
20160122390 | A BIOMIMETIC PEPTIDE AND BIODEGRADABLE DELIVERY PLATFORM FOR THE TREATMENT OF ANGIOGENESIS- AND LYMPHANGIOGENESIS-DEPENDENT DISEASES - Mimetic peptides having anti-angiogenic and anti-tumorigenic properties and methods of their use for treating cancer, ocular diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration, and other-angiogenesis-dependent diseases are disclosed. More particularly, an isolated peptide comprising the amino acid sequence LRRFSTAPFAFIDINDVINF, which exhibits anti-angiogenic activity in endothelial cell proliferation, migration, adhesion, and tube formation assays, anti-migratory activity in human breast cancer cells in vitro, anti-angiogenic and anti-tumorigenic activity in vivo in breast cancer xenograft models, and age-related macular degeneration models is disclosed. The isolate peptide also exhibits anti-lymphangiogenic and directly anti-tumorigenic properties. | 05-05-2016 |
20160114145 | CONTROLLED OUTGASSING OF HYBERBARICALLY LOADED MATERIALS FOR THE DELIVERY OF OXYGEN AND OTHER THERAPEUTIC GASES IN BIOMEDICAL APPLICATIONS - Devices and methods for delivering oxygen and other therapeutic gases to a target, such as a tissue, a tissue-engineered construct, and a wound, in a controlled and sustained manner are disclosed. | 04-28-2016 |
20160114060 | PSMA-BINDING AGENTS AND USES THEREOF - Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) binding compounds having radioisotope substituents are described, as well as chemical precursors thereof. Compounds include pyridine containing compounds, compounds having phenylhydrazine structures, and acylated lysine compounds. The compounds allow ready incorporation of radionuclides for single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET) for imaging, for example, prostate cancer cells and angiogenesis. | 04-28-2016 |
20160109455 | COMPOSITIONS FOR OVARIAN CANCER ASSESSMENT HAVING IMPROVED SPECIFICTY - The present invention provides compositions and methods that provide a high degree of sensitivity and a high degree of specificity for the preoperative assessment of ovarian tumors in a variety of subject's (e.g., pre- and post-menopausal women) having a variety of ovarian cancer types (e.g., clear cell/mucinous, low malignant potential, high malignant potential) and at a variety of disease states (e.g., early and late stage). | 04-21-2016 |
20160108121 | T Cell Regulation - Combinations of anti-cancer antibodies and inhibitory antibodies to CD223 overcome immune suppression in cancer patients. The inhibitory antibodies may be generated in an animal by injection of fragments of CD223. Antibodies may be monoclonal antibodies or single chain antibodies or humanized antibodies. | 04-21-2016 |
20160106871 | NOVEL PEPTIDE HYDROGELS GENERATING CHEMICAL EXCHANGE SATURATION TRANSFER MRI CONTRAST AND USES THEREOF - The present invention provides novel hydrogels through peptides, which are designed to self-assemble and produce magnetic resonance (MR) contrast through chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST). The location and integrity of these gels could consequently be tracked using MR imaging. The self-assembly of the peptides into hydrogels can be brought about by a change in pH, ionic strength, temperature, and concentration of ions. | 04-21-2016 |
20160106710 | WOUND HEALING VIA AUTOLOGOUS STEM CELL MOBILIZATION - The present invention relates to the field of wound healing. More specifically, the present invention provides methods and compositions useful for improved wound healing via autologous stem cell mobilization. In one embodiment, a method for improving wound healing in a patient comprises administering to the patient a therapeutically effective amount of a stem cell mobilizer and a low dose of an immunosuppressive agent. | 04-21-2016 |
20160106399 | BIORESORBABLE SELF-FOLDING TOOLS FOR SURGERY, SINGLE CELL CAPTURE AND MANIPULATION - Microgrippers adapted to capture, manipulate, and contain single cells in both in vitro and in vivo cell applications are disclosed. The energy required to actuate these microgrippers is derived from the release of residual stress and does not require any wires, tethers, or batteries. Because the microgrippers are made from biocompatible and biosorbable materials, they do not accumulate in tissue. Accordingly, they can be used for in vivo applications, such as for gripping single cells in tissue biopsies. | 04-21-2016 |
20160100906 | INTERFEROMETRIC FORCE SENSOR FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS - A surgical tool system according to an embodiment of the current invention includes a surgical tool, and an interferometry system optically coupled to the surgical tool. The surgical tool includes a body section, a sensor section at least one of attached to or integral with the body section, and a surgical section at least one of attached to or integral with the sensor section at an opposing end of the sensor section from the body section. The sensor section comprises an interferometric optical sensor defining a reference distance that changes in response to at least one of a force or a torque when applied to the surgical section of the surgical tool. | 04-14-2016 |
20160096271 | ACTIVE VIBRATION DAMPING DEVICE - According to some embodiments of the present invention, a cooperatively-controlled robot includes a robotic actuator assembly comprising a tool holder and a force sensor. The cooperatively-controlled robot further includes a control system adapted to communicate with the robotic actuator assembly and the force sensor, and an actuator in communication with the control system and mechanically coupled to a tool. The force sensor is configured to detect a vibrational force applied on the tool and send a signal to the control system based on the vibrational force. The control system is configured to receive the signal and determine a force to apply to the tool to damp the vibrational force. The control system then signals to the actuator to apply the determined force, and the actuator applies the determined force to actively damp a vibration of the tool. | 04-07-2016 |
20160095958 | BONE REGENERATION USING STROMAL VASCULAR FRACTION, PLATELET-DERIVED GROWTH FACTOR-RICH HYDROGEL, THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTED POLY-EPSILON-CAPROLACTONE SCAFFOLDS - The presently disclosed subject matter focuses on recapitulating the heterotypic interactions needed to maximize the co-development of vasculature and bone. More particularly, the presently disclosed subject matter explores the potential of cellular aggregation and temporal presentation of factors to induce the cell-cell signaling events required to stimulate ASCs to self-organize into vascularized bone. Further, exogenous PDGF-BB synergizes complex tissue formation in ASC cultures by enhancing vascular stability and osteogenic differentiation. The presently disclosed approach provides a robust protocol to engineer vascularized bone with ASCs in vitro. | 04-07-2016 |
20160095945 | USE OF NON-LABELED SUGARS AND DETECTION BY MRI FOR ASSESSING TISSUE PERFUSION AND METABOLISM - A method for magnetic resonance (MR) imaging or spectroscopy on a MR scanner to detect tissue physiological parameters in one or more tissue areas in a human or non-human subject includes administering to the subject a contrast enhancing physiologically tolerable amount of a sugar that is non-labeled, subjecting the subject to an MR procedure capable of generating MR signals encoding at least one tissue area in the subject in which the sugar either passes or is taken up, detecting a temporal variation in the MR signals in the at least one tissue area after the administering the sugar, determining at least one tissue-related parameter from the temporal variation, and ascertaining whether the at least one tissue-related parameter is abnormal. | 04-07-2016 |
20160083760 | METHOD FOR LATE INTRODUCTION OF THE (8R) HYDROXYL GROUP CARBAPENEM BETA-LACTAM ANTIBIOTIC SYNTHESIS - The presently disclosed subject matter demonstrates that ThnG and ThnQ enzymes encoded by the thienamycin gene cluster in | 03-24-2016 |
20160082132 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR CHEMICAL EXCHANGE SATURATION TRANSFER (CEST) BASED MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI) - Compositions and methods for chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) based magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or frequency labeled exchange (FLEX) imaging are disclosed. Beta-hydroxycarboxylate and beta-aminocarboxylate derivatives including salicylic acid, salicylates, salicylic acid prodrugs, N-alkyl/aryl/acyl/sulfonyl-anthranilic acid analogs, and any aromatic compound with OH/NH group ortho to the carboxylic acid group are disclosed. Such compounds can be used as general MRI organic contrast agents and produce significantly improved contrast in MR images detectable through CEST or FLEX. | 03-24-2016 |
20160081692 | INFERIOR VENA CAVA (IVC) SHUNT, DOUBLE-BALLOON CATHETER FOR OCCLUSION AS A SURGICAL TOOL - A double-balloon inferior vena cava (NC) shunt for use in controlling blood loss and simultaneously maintaining venous return is disclosed. The NC shunt comprises a first balloon-catheter unit and second balloon-catheter unit that are slidably coupled to one another to form an adjustable shunt. The first and second balloons in the shunt are independently inflatable. The double-balloon shunt is readily adjustable to fit the dimensions of the injured region. | 03-24-2016 |
20160074535 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR THE EXPRESSION OF CRISPR GUIDE RNAS USING THE H1 PROMOTER - The presently disclosed subject matter provides compositions and methods for the expression of CRISPR guide RNAs using the H1 promoter. In particular, compositions and methods are provided for the use of the H1 promoter to express CRISPR guide RNA (gRNA) with altered specificity of the 5′ nucleotide, as well as use of the H1 promoter sequence as a bidirectional promoter to express Cas9 nuclease and the gRNA simultaneously. Compositions and methods are also provided for the expression and regulation of gRNA expression in vivo through the use of RNA ribozymes and regulatable aptazymes. | 03-17-2016 |
20160063870 | SYSTEM FOR TESTING OF AUTONOMY IN COMPLEX ENVIRONMENTS - A monitoring apparatus for deployment on an AUV may include navigation equipment operable independent of guidance and control equipment of the AUV and usable for determining AUV navigation information during deployment of the AUV, radio equipment operable independent of a radio module of the AUV and for providing a communication link to a ground station for communication with testing staff, and a watchdog module comprising processing circuitry configured to monitor at least the AUV navigation information relative to operational guidance to determine whether a constraint defined in the operational guidance is violated. | 03-03-2016 |
20160053298 | METHODS FOR IDENTIFYING PROTEINS AND COMPOUNDS THAT MODULATE THE ACTIVITY OF OTUB1 - The present invention describes that OTUB1 cleavage of K48 poly-ubiquitin is stimulated by a select subset of E2 enzymes, and that this stimulation is regulated by the ubiquitin-charged state of the E2 and free ubiquitin. Structural and biochemical studies of OTUB1 and UBCH5B show that the E2 stimulates binding of the polyubiquitin substrate by contacting the OTUB1 N-terminal ubiquitin-binding helix. Methods for identifying E2 enzymes which stimulate or inhibit cleavage of K48 polyubiquitin, as well as novel target compounds which modulate this interaction are provided. | 02-25-2016 |
20160046930 | METHODS OF SEQUENCING NUCLEIC ACIDS IN MIXTURES AND COMPOSITIONS RELATED THERETO - This disclosure relates to analyzing the end-to-end sequence and the relative distributions in heterogeneous mixtures of polynucleotides and methods and enabling reagents related thereto. In certain embodiments this method relates to the complete full length sequencing and quantitative profiling of mRNAs present in the transcriptomes of cells or tissues of but not limited to, higher multicellular organisms that possess interrupted genes subject to complex post-transcriptional RNA processing | 02-18-2016 |
20160046616 | NRF2 SMALL MOLECULE INHIBITORS FOR CANCER THERAPY - Small molecule inhibitors of Nrf2 and methods of their use are provided for treating or preventing a disease, disorder or condition associated with an Nrf2-regulated pathway. The compound can be administered as a single agent or can be administered to enhance the efficacy of a chemotherapeutic drug and/or radiation therapy. | 02-18-2016 |
20160033602 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR RECORDING A MAGNETIC RESONANCE DATASET OF AT LEAST ONE FOREIGN BODY IN A PATIENT - In a method and apparatus for recording a magnetic resonance dataset of at least one foreign body in a target region of a patient, a magnetic resonance sequence having an ultra-short echo time, which is less than 500 μs is used for recording the magnetic resonance data. | 02-04-2016 |
20160030391 | METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR IMPROVING COGNITIVE FUNCTION - This invention relates to methods and compositions for treating cognitive impairment associated with central nervous system (CNS) disorders. In particular, it relates to the use of inhibitors of synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A (SV2A) in combination with memantine or a derivative or an analog thereof, in treating cognitive impairment associated with central nervous system (CNS) disorders in a subject in need or at risk thereof, including, without limitation, subjects having or at risk for age-related cognitive impairment, Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), amnestic MCI (aMCI), Age-Associated Memory Impairment (AAMI), Age Related Cognitive Decline (ARCD), dementia, Alzheimer's Disease (AD), prodromal AD, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, cancer-therapy-related cognitive impairment, mental retardation, Parkinson's disease (PD), autism, compulsive behavior, and substance addiction. | 02-04-2016 |
20160030240 | MICROMANIPULATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A micromanipulation system includes a micromanipulator that includes a handpiece, and a micromanipulation tool that includes a tool shaft and is operatively connected to the handpiece. The micromanipulator further includes an actuator assembly connected to the micromanipulation tool to provide manual control of the micromanipulation tool, and a force sensing system comprising a force sensor attached to the tool shaft. The force sensing system is configured to provide an output signal that indicates a force imposed on the tool shaft. The micromanipulation system also includes a processor that is in communication with the force sensing system, and is configured to receive the output signal and compensate for forces due to actuation of the micromanipulation tool to determine a force due to interaction of the micromanipulation tool with a region of interest. The processor outputs an indication of at least one of a magnitude and a direction of the determined force. | 02-04-2016 |
20160024496 | METHODS FOR MONITORING C9ORF72 EXPRESSION - Disclosed herein are methods for monitoring expression of C9ORF72 mRNA and protein in an animal with C9ORF72 specific inhibitors. Such C9ORF72 specific inhibitors include antisense compounds. | 01-28-2016 |
20150380651 | PATTERNING DEVICES USING FLUORINATED COMPOUNDS - A method for producing a spatially patterned structure includes forming a layer of a material on at least a portion of a substructure of the spatially patterned structure, forming a barrier layer of a fluorinated material on the layer of material to provide an intermediate structure, and exposing the intermediate structure to at least one of a second material or radiation to cause at least one of a chemical change or a structural change to at least a portion of the intermediate structure. The barrier layer substantially protects the layer of the material from chemical and structural changes during the exposing. Substructures are produced according to this method. | 12-31-2015 |
20150376622 | INFLUENZA-ACTIVATED CONSTRUCTS AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - The presently disclosed subject matter provides a novel approach for the treatment, prevention, and diagnosis of Cap-Snatching virus infections, particularly all classes of human influenza, including pandemic influenza. The methods involve the use of constructs for RNA-interference (RNAi). | 12-31-2015 |
20150369738 | RED FLUORESCENT ALDEHYDE DEHYDROGENASE (ALDH) SUBSTRATE - A detectable substrate for aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) can be used for selecting cells that express ALDH. The detectable substrate can have a fluorescent moiety that has an excitation wavelength, an emission wavelength, or both, that does not overlap with the excitation wavelength, emission wavelength, or both, of green fluorescent protein. | 12-24-2015 |
20150366991 | ANTIGEN-SPECIFIC T CELL REDIRECTORS - This disclosure describes compositions and methods for selectively recruiting antigen-specific T cells and re-direct them to kill targeted cells, particularly tumor cells. This approach permits selective engagement of specific effector cell populations and, by using nanoparticles, overcomes the geometric limitations associated with previous approaches. | 12-24-2015 |
20150361507 | TERT PROMOTER MUTATIONS IN GLIOMAS AND A SUBSET OF TUMORS - We surveyed 1,230 tumors of 60 different types and found that tumors could be divided into types with low (<15%) and high (≧15%) frequencies of TERT promoter mutations. The nine TERT-high tumor types almost always originated in tissues with relatively low rates of self renewal, including melanomas, liposarcomas, hepatocellular carcinomas, urothelial carcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas of the tongue, medulloblastomas, and subtypes of gliomas (including 83% of primary glioblastoma, the most common brain tumor type). TERT and ATRX mutations were mutually exclusive, suggesting that these two genetic mechanisms confer equivalent selective growth advantages. In addition to their implications for understanding the relationship between telomeres and tumorigenesis, TERT mutations provide a biomarker for the early detection of urinary tract and liver tumors and aid in the classification and prognostication of brain tumors. | 12-17-2015 |
20150361088 | TWO-CARBON LINKED ARTEMISININ-DERIVED TRIOXANE DIMERS - Two-carbon linked artemisinin-derived trioxane dimers and methods of their use for treating subjects infected with malaria or other parasitic infectious diseases including, but not limited to, toxoplasmic infection; subjects afflicted with psychiatric conditions associated with toxoplasmic infection; and subjects afflicted with cancer. | 12-17-2015 |
20150359605 | ULTRASOUND-DETECTABLE MARKERS, ULTRASOUND SYSTEM, AND METHODS FOR MONITORING VASCULAR FLOW AND PATENCY - An ultrasound-detectable marker, ultrasound system, and methods for monitoring vascular flow and patency are disclosed. The ultrasound-detectable marker comprises one or more resorbable polymers, one or more non-resorbable polymers, one or more non-polymeric materials, or any combinations thereof. The ultrasound-detectable marker is adapted for placement underneath, adjacent to, or above one or more vessels at a postoperative site, such as a vascular anastomosis site. Further, the ultrasound imaging system includes certain user guiding software and/or health analysis software for use with the ultrasound-detectable marker. | 12-17-2015 |
20150342695 | MULTI-FORCE SENSING SURGICAL INSTRUMENT AND METHOD OF USE FOR ROBOTIC SURGICAL SYSTEMS - A multi-force sensing instrument includes a tool that has a tool shaft having a distal end and a proximal end, a strain sensor arranged at a first position along the tool shaft, at least one of a second strain sensor or a torque-force sensor arranged at a second position along the tool shaft, the second position being more towards the proximal end of the tool shaft than the first position, and a signal processor configured to communicate with the strain sensor and the at least one of the second strain sensor or the torque-force sensor to receive detection signals therefrom. The signal processor is configured to process the signals to determine a magnitude and position of a lateral component of a force applied to the tool shaft when the position of the applied force is between the first and second positions. | 12-03-2015 |
20150321021 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR TREATING CARDIAC ARRHYTHMIAS - The present invention provides both methods and devices for termination of arrhythmias, such as ventricular or atrial tachyarrhythmias. The device and method involves application of alternating current (AC) for clinically significant durations at selected therapeutic frequencies through the cardiac tissue to a subject experiencing arrhythmia. Methods are also provided to minimize or eliminate pain during defibrillation. | 11-12-2015 |
20150320862 | Process for Making Iron Oxide Nanoparticle Preparations for Cancer Hyperthermia - Iron oxide nanoparticle compositions, methods of preparing the nanoparticles using high gravity controlled precipitation (HGCP), and methods of using the nanoparticles are disclosed. | 11-12-2015 |
20150319188 | Canonical Network Isolator Component - A method for isolating a computer platform includes receiving a service request from an external requestor via a network at processing circuitry associated with a hardware barrier between the computer platform and the network, causing the service request to be loaded into a first buffer having a dual port connection to a corresponding second buffer of the computer platform, providing an indication to the computer platform to indicate the service request is loaded into the first buffer to be pulled into the second buffer of the computer platform, responsive to processing of the service request by the computer platform, receiving a message indicating a response loaded in the second buffer has been pushed to the first buffer, and communicating the response to the external requestor. The buffers form the only access point to the computer platform. The indication is the only communication initiated from the external requestor that crosses the hardware barrier without control by the computer platform. | 11-05-2015 |
20150315771 | SUDSY WATER FIXTURE - A sudsy water fixture and methods is disclosed, wherein the sudsy water fixture is a fixture for mixing soap and water. In particular aspects, the presently disclosed fixture comprises a soap canister, an aspirator, a supply line, a shutoff valve, and a soap infusion valve. A method of operation of the sudsy water system is provided. | 11-05-2015 |
20150315589 | METHODS OF INHIBITING CANCER STEM CELLS WITH HMGA1 INHIBITORS - The presently disclosed subject matter relates to methods of inhibiting cancer stem cells and growth of aggressive and/or poorly differentiated metastatic tumors comprising the cancer stem cells with HMGA1 inhibitors. The presently disclosed subject matter also provides methods of selecting and treating a subject with aggressive and/or poorly differentiated metastatic cancer using HMGA1 inhibitors. | 11-05-2015 |
20150309026 | METHODS OF SCREENING FOR CELL PROLIFERATION OR NEOPLASTIC DISORDERS - The invention relates to methods and compositions for identifying subjects having, or predisposed to having, a neoplastic or cell proliferation or neoplastic disorder. The methods are applicable to any type of tissue sample and can be conducted on otherwise normal tissue. | 10-29-2015 |
20150307592 | MIMETIC PEPTIDES DERIVED FROM COLLAGEN TYPE IV AND THEIR USE FOR TREATING ANGIOGENESIS- AND LYMPHANGIOGENESIS- DEPENDENT DISEASES - Mimetic peptides having anti-angiogenic and anti-tumorigenic properties and methods of their use for treating cancer, ocular diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration, and other angiogenesis-dependent diseases are disclosed. More particularly, active non-cysteine analogs (mimetics), which exhibit anti-angiogenic activity in endothelial cell proliferation, migration, adhesion, and tube formation assays, anti-migratory activity in human breast cancer cells in vitro, anti-angiogenic and anti-tumorigenic activity in vivo in breast cancer sonogram models and age-related macular degeneration models are disclosed. The presently disclosed mimetic peptides also exhibit anti-lymphangiogenic and directly anti-tumorigenic properties. | 10-29-2015 |
20150305822 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR REAL-TIME ANASTOMOSIS GUIDANCE AND SURGICAL EVALUATION USING OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY - A surgical evaluation and guidance system for use in extravascular evaluation and guidance of fluid vessel surgeries, includes an optical coherence tomography engine; a vessel probe optically coupled to the optical coherence tomography engine; and a signal processing and display system adapted to communicate with the optical coherence tomography engine to receive imaging signals therefrom. An optical coherence tomography vessel probe for use in extravascular evaluation and guidance of fluid vessel surgeries, includes a probe body having a proximal end and a distal end; an optical relay system disposed within the probe body; and a vessel adapter at least one of attached to or integral with the probe body at the distal end of the probe body, wherein the vessel adapter defines a groove that is configured to accept one of a fluid vessel and a lymphaticovenous vessel. | 10-29-2015 |
20150305761 | MOTION-COMPENSATED MICRO-FORCEPS SYSTEM AND METHOD - A motion-compensated micro-forceps system, including a manually-operable micro-forceps assembly having a plurality of moveable grasping elements; a motor assembly operatively connected to the plurality of moveable grasping elements; an optical detection system having an optical fiber attached to the manually-operable micro-forceps assembly at a fixed axial distance relative to a distal-most end of the plurality of moveable grasping elements; and a motor controller configured to communicate with the optical detection system and the motor assembly to provide motion compensation of the plurality of moveable grasping elements of the manually-operable micro-forceps, wherein the optical detection system is configured to output a signal for the determination of a distance of the plurality of moveable grasping elements of the micro-forceps to a target during operation, and wherein the motor controller is configured to provide feedback control signals to the motor assembly for motion compensation for both hand tremor and for hand-action-induced motions. | 10-29-2015 |
20150299791 | DNA METHYLATION BIOMARKERS OF POST-PARTUM DEPRESSION RISK - The present invention relates to the field of post-partum depression. More specifically, the present invention relates to the use of biomarkers to diagnose post-partum depression or predict a risk thereof. In a specific embodiment, a method for identifying a likelihood of PPD in a patient comprises the steps of (a) providing a sample from the patient; (b) measuring white blood cell type counts and DNA methylation levels of a panel of biomarkers in the sample collected from the patient, wherein the panel of biomarkers comprises HP1BP3 and TTC9B and the white blood cell type counts comprise monocytes and non-monocytes; and (c) identifying the patient as likely to develop PPD based on the relative DNA methylation levels at the biomarker loci relative to the ratio of monocytes:non-monocytes. | 10-22-2015 |
20150297404 | FIBER OPTIC DISTAL SENSOR CONTROLLED MICRO-MANIPULATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A motion-compensated cutting system includes a hand-held tool body, and an actuator connected to the tool body. A shaft of the actuator is movable relative to the tool body so that a distal end of a cutting implement attached to the shaft is axially movable relative to the tool body. An optical coherence tomography system includes an optical fiber with a distal end fixed relative to the distal end of the cutting implement. The system includes a control unit that can determine a position of the distal end of the cutting implement relative to a reference surface based on input from the optical coherence tomography system. The control unit can control the cutting implement to compensate for relative motion between the tool body and the reference surface, and can maintain a predetermined depth of the distal end of the cutting implement with respect to the reference surface. | 10-22-2015 |
20150292027 | PAPANICOLAOU TEST FOR OVARIAN AND ENDOMETRIAL CANCERS - The recently developed liquid-based Papanicolaou (Pap) smear allows not only cytologic evaluation but also collection of DNA for detection of HPV, the causative agent of cervical cancer. We tested these samples to detect somatic mutations present in rare tumor cells that might accumulate in the cervix once shed from endometrial and ovarian cancers. A panel of commonly mutated genes in endometrial and ovarian cancers was assembled and used to identify mutations in all 46 endometrial or cervical cancer tissue samples. We were able also able to identify the same mutations in the DNA from liquid Pap smears in 100% of endometrial cancers (24 of 24) and in 41% of ovarian cancers (9 of 22). We developed a sequence-based method to query mutations in 12 genes in a single liquid Pap smear without prior knowledge of the tumor's genotype. | 10-15-2015 |
20150273071 | Bioreducible Poly (Beta-Amino Ester)s For siRNA Delivery - Degradable polymers were synthesized that self-assemble with nucleic acids, proteins, hydrophobic drugs, and other small molecules to form particles that are effective for delivery into a cell, tissue and/or organism either in vitro or in vivo. The presently disclosed polymers demonstrate differential cell-type specificity, an ability to promote endosomal escape to protect the cargos from degradation and enhance delivery to the cytoplasm, and/or bioreducibility, which enables triggered intracellular drug release to be tuned to promote optimal delivery to the target cell type. The presently disclosed materials may be used to treat a wide variety of conditions or diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, infectious diseases, and ophthalmic diseases. | 10-01-2015 |
20150265543 | NANOCRYSTALS, COMPOSITIONS, AND METHODS THAT AID PARTICLE TRANSPORT IN MUCUS - Nanocrystals, compositions, and methods that aid particle transport in mucus are provided. In some embodiments, the compositions and methods involve making mucus-penetrating particles (MPP) without any polymeric carriers, or with minimal use of polymeric carriers. The compositions and methods may include, in some embodiments, modifying the surface coatings of particles formed of pharmaceutical agents that have a low water solubility. Such methods and compositions can be used to achieve efficient transport of particles of pharmaceutical agents though mucus barriers in the body for a wide spectrum of applications, including drug delivery, imaging, and diagnostic applications. In certain embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition including such particles is well-suited for administration routes involving the particles passing through a mucosal barrier. | 09-24-2015 |
20150265542 | NANOCRYSTALS, COMPOSITIONS, AND METHODS THAT AID PARTICLE TRANSPORT IN MUCUS - Nanocrystals, compositions, and methods that aid particle transport in mucus are provided. In some embodiments, the compositions and methods involve making mucus-penetrating particles (MPP) without any polymeric carriers, or with minimal use of polymeric carriers. The compositions and methods may include, in some embodiments, modifying the surface coatings of particles formed of pharmaceutical agents that have a low water solubility. Such methods and compositions can be used to achieve efficient transport of particles of pharmaceutical agents though mucus barriers in the body for a wide spectrum of applications, including drug delivery, imaging, and diagnostic applications. In certain embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition including such particles is well-suited for administration routes involving the particles passing through a mucosal barrier. | 09-24-2015 |
20150262500 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR TRAINING A USER TO SIGHT READ MUSIC - An embodiment in accordance with the present invention provides a method and system for training a student to sight-read music. The method includes displaying a measure of music having at least a first and second phrase of notes. As the student moves through the music, the phrases of notes are removed from the measure of music, in such a way to encourage the student to read ahead of the point at which she is playing. In some exercises, a focal point can be provided in order to train the student to engage the fovea for acquiring pitch information from the measure of music and the parafovea for acquiring rhythm information from the measure of music. The method can be executed on a dedicated computing device such as a tablet or in the form of an application or program for use on a number of different computing devices. | 09-17-2015 |
20150262390 | INFORMATION PROPAGATION IN PRIOR-IMAGE-BASED RECONSTRUCTION - A framework, comprising techniques, process(es), device(s), system(s), combinations thereof, or the like, to analyze propagation of information in prior-image-based reconstruction by decomposing the estimation into distinct components supported by a current data acquisition and by a prior image. Such decomposition can quantify contributions from prior data and current data as a spatial map and/or can trace specific features in an image to a source of at least some of such features. | 09-17-2015 |
20150258061 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASE - Compounds, compositions, kits and methods for treating conditions related to neurodegeneration or ocular disease, are disclosed. | 09-17-2015 |
20150252438 | AGENTS FOR REVERSING EPIGENETIC SILENCING OF GENES - The present invention provides methods for discovering agents that are effective in reversing epigenetic silencing by inhibiting the interaction of methyl-binding (MBD) proteins with methylated genomic DNA. Also provided are methods for reactivating silenced genes having CpG island hypermethylation along with methods for treatment and prevention of diseases, such as cancer and sickle cell anemia, by administering an agent that modulates methyl-binding domain (MBD) protein-mediated transcriptional repression, thereby increasing gene transcription to prevent or treat disease. Additionally, compounds identified by the present invention useful for treatment and prevention of diseases, such as cancer and sickle cell anemia, are provided. | 09-10-2015 |
20150252415 | ARID1B AND NEUROBLASTOMA - Neuroblastomas are tumors of peripheral sympathetic neurons and are the most common solid tumor in children. We performed whole-genome sequencing (6 cases), exome sequencing (16 cases), genome-wide rearrangement analyses (32 cases), and targeted analyses of specific genomic loci (40 cases) using massively parallel sequencing to determine the genetic basis for neuroblastoma. On average, each tumor had 19 somatic alterations in coding genes (range, 3-70). Chromosomal deletions and sequence alterations of chromatin remodeling genes, ARID1A and ARID1B, were identified in 8 of 71 neuroblastomas (11%), and these were associated with early treatment failure and decreased survival. These results highlight dysregulation of chromatin remodeling in pediatric tumorigenesis and provide new approaches for the management of neuroblastoma patients. | 09-10-2015 |
20150250881 | Multicomponent Degradable Cationic Polymers - Degradable polymers were synthesized that self-assemble with DNA to form particles that are effective for gene delivery. Small changes to polymer synthesis conditions, particle formulation conditions, and polymer structure provides significant changes to efficacy in a cell-type dependent manner. Polymers presented here are more effective than commercially available materials, such as LIPOFECTAMINE 2000™, FUGENE®, or polyethylenimine (PEI), for gene delivery to cancerous fibroblasts or human primary fibroblasts. The presently disclosed materials may be useful for cancer therapeutics and regenerative medicine. | 09-10-2015 |
20150246144 | LABELED INHIBITORS OF PROSTATE SPECIFIC MEMBRANE ANTIGEN (PSMA) BIOLOGICAL EVALUATION, AND USE OF IMAGING AGENTS - The prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is increasingly recognized as a viable target for imaging and therapy of cancer. Various 99mTc/Re-labeled compounds were prepared by attaching known Tc/Re chelating agents to an amino-functionalized PSMA inhibitor with or without a variable length linker moiety. Ex vivo biodistribution and in vivo imaging demonstrated the degree of specific binding to engineered PSMA+PC3 PIP tumors. | 09-03-2015 |
20150241437 | ISOBARIC ALDEHYDE-REACTIVE TAGS FOR AND ANALYSIS OF GLYCANS USING SAME - Highly specific and novel methods for analyzing glycans and proteoglycans are provided. Uses of the information generated by the inventive methods for diagnosis and treatment are also disclosed. | 08-27-2015 |
20150239739 | BENT CARBON NANOTUBES AND METHODS OF PRODUCTION - A method of producing carbon nanotubes includes directing a flow of a gas over a substrate to provide growth of at least one carbon nanotube in a carbon-nanotube-growth region of the substrate; applying an electric field to the carbon-nanotube-growth region of the substrate after the at least one carbon nanotube has begun to grow in the carbon-nanotube-growth region, the electric field being substantially in a first direction in the carbon-nanotube-growth region; and changing the electric field at a preselected time to be substantially in a second direction in the carbon-nanotube-growth region during growth of the at least one carbon nanotube. The second direction is different from the first direction resulting in a bend substantially at a selected position of the at least one carbon nanotube, the method of producing carbon nanotubes providing the production of the at least one carbon nanotube having at least one bend substantially at a selected position along the at least one carbon nanotube. | 08-27-2015 |
20150238465 | NOVEL, PROTECTIVE, ANTI-INFLAMMATORY RECEPTOR AND ITS USE IN PRESERVATION OF MITOCHONDRIAL FUNCTION, WOUND HEALING AND REPAIR - Provided herein is a novel mitochondrial Angiotensin II type 1 and type 2 AT | 08-27-2015 |
20150231239 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR RENDERING TUMOR CELLS SUSCEPTIBLE TO CD8+ T CELL-MEDIATED KILLING - The present invention provides an immunoconjugate having the formula: T-c-E | 08-20-2015 |
20150218156 | INHIBITORS OF D-AMINO ACID OXIDASE - D-amino acid oxidase (DAAO) inhibitors and methods of their use, either alone or in combination with D-serine or D-alanine, to facilitate allosteric activation of NMDA receptor-mediated neurotransmission and methods of their use as therapeutic agents for treating a subject afflicted with one or more cognitive-disorders, such as schizophrenia, including subjects suffering from negative symptoms and cognitive impairments, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or pain, are disclosed. | 08-06-2015 |
20150209527 | FIBER OPTIC DISTAL SENSOR CONTROLLED DRUG INJECTOR - A motion-compensated injector system includes a handheld tool having a hollow shaft with a distal end for insertion into tissue of a subject. The system also includes an optical coherence tomography-based optical detection system having an optical fiber with a distal end at a fixed distance from the distal end of the hollow shaft, and an optical sensor to receive a signal from the optical fiber. The system further includes an actuator to move the hollow shaft in an axial direction, and a control unit to control the actuator. The optical detection system can monitor a distance between the distal end of the optical fiber and a reference portion of the tissue of the subject, and the control unit can control the actuator to move the hollow shaft to compensate for relative motion between the handheld tool and the portion of the tissue. | 07-30-2015 |
20150192581 | Lateral Flow Device for Diagnosing Microbial Infections - Fungal infections are difficult to diagnose. The most common filamentous fungal infection, aspergillosis, carriers with it a high mortality. Culture of the organism is difficult and obtaining samples, e.g., through a lung biopsy, sometimes causes morbidity. Biomarkers that indicate ‘early’ infection in it development are sought after. One such biomarker is detection of galactomannan (GM), a polysaccharide that is attached to hyphal cell walls and secreted during growth of the organism. Galactomannan is excreted in urine. Disclosed herein is a lateral flow assay comprising monoclonal antibodies that recognize specific residues of | 07-09-2015 |
20150184150 | EFFICIENT, EXPANSIVE, USER-DEFINED DNA MUTAGENESIS - The presently disclosed subject matter provides methods for the creation of one or more user-defined mutations that can be located anywhere in a target sequence, such as in a gene. These mutations can comprise single mutations, multiple mutations, or a comprehensive codon mutagenesis library, in which all possible single codon substitutions in a gene are created. These methods can be used on a single-stranded or double-stranded template. | 07-02-2015 |
20150183798 | MONOMERIC TRIOXANE AMIDE SULFUR COMPOUNDS - Anilide derivatives of the natural trioxane artemisinin were prepared and evaluated for antimalarial efficacy in | 07-02-2015 |
20150175963 | IMMORTALIZATION OF CELLS INCLUDING NEURONAL CELLS - The instant invention provides methods for immortalizing cells. The invention further provides immortalized cell lines, e.g., neuronal cell lines, and methods of using these cell lines in screening assays. | 06-25-2015 |
20150174154 | SKIN AND HAIR REGENERATION USING POLYSACCHARIDE-BASED HYDROGELS - Methods for promoting skin regeneration, promoting hair follicle regeneration, and reducing scarring by topically administering polysaccharide-based hydrogel compositions to injured skin are presented. | 06-25-2015 |
20150173703 | INTEGRATION OF QUANTITATIVE CALIBRATION SYSTEMS IN COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY SCANNERS - An embodiment in accordance with the present invention provides a device and method for a quantitatively calibrated computed tomography scanner. The device includes a gentry configured for receiving a patient or part of a patient. The gentry includes an X-ray source and a detector positioned opposite said X-ray source, such that said detector receives the X-rays emitted from the X-ray source. Calibration phantoms are integrated with the gentry and/or a device within the scanner so as to allow for calibration in quantitative CT measurements of Hounsfield units and/or bone mineral density. | 06-25-2015 |
20150150643 | PERSONALIZED COMPUTATIONAL MODELING OF ATRIAL FIBROSIS TO GUIDE CATHETER ABLATION OF ATRIAL FIBRILLATION - Methods, system, and media for identifying one or more ablation locations in an atrial tissue region in an atrial fibrillation (AF) patient with atrial fibrosis are disclosed. Three-dimensional imaging data representing the atria of the patient may be received. A patient-specific model of the atria may be generated from the three-dimensional imaging data. Simulation of the AF on the patient-specific model may be conducted to identify AF-perpetrating regions. One or more ablation locations in the atria may be identified from the AF-perpetrating regions. | 06-04-2015 |
20150148405 | Expression Construct for a Lin28-Resistant Let-7 Precursor MicroRNA - Precursor microRNA molecules that have been modified to prevent a protein involved in regulating developmental timing, oncogenesis, and/or neuronal growth from blocking processing of the precursor microRNA sequence to the mature microRNA are provided. Methods and kits for using the precursor microRNA molecules also are provided. | 05-28-2015 |
20150148256 | BIOLUMINESCENCE IMAGING-BASED SCREENING ASSAY AND INHIBITORS OF ABCG2 - A bioluminescence imaging-based high-throughput assay for inhibitors of ABCG2 is described. Compositions of inhibitors of ABCG2 and methods of using ABCG2 inhibitors are also described. | 05-28-2015 |
20150126374 | HYPERMETHYLATED GENE MARKERS FOR HEAD AND NECK CANCER - Methods and kits for diagnosing or predicting head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and for predicting responsivity to therapeutic regimens for treating HNSCC are disclosed. | 05-07-2015 |
20150119740 | WHOLE-BODY PLETYSMOGRAPHY SYSTEM FOR THE CONTINUOUS CHARACTERIZATION OF SLEEP AND BREATHING IN A MOUSE - An embodiment in accordance with the present invention provides a device for whole-body plethysmography (WBP) of a mouse for the continuous characterization of sleep and breathing. The inherent limitations of standard WBP are addressed to enable the continuous recording of validated measures of tidal volume, tidal airflow, and respiratory effort surrogate in an unrestrained, unanesthetized mouse. The addition of standard EEG and EMG recording technology allows for respiratory patterns to be fully characterized during sleep and wakefulness. The present invention also allows for the demonstration of the development of dynamic upper airway obstruction [inspiratory flow limitation (IFL)] during sleep in a susceptible, obese murine strain. | 04-30-2015 |
20150118195 | Electro-Mechanically Stretched Micro Fibers and Methods of Use Thereof - The presently disclosed subject matter provides a scalable and electrostretching approach for generating microfibers exhibiting uniaxial alignment from polymer solutions. Such microfibers can be generated from a variety of natural polymers or synthetic polymers. The hydrogel microfibers can be used for controlled release of bioactive agents. The internal uniaxial alignment exhibited by the presently disclosed fibers provides improved mechanical properties to microfibers, contact guidance cues and induces alignment for cells seeded on or within the microfibers. | 04-30-2015 |
20150114007 | MAGNETOCALORIC MATERIALS FOR CRYOGENIC LIQUIFICATION - System and methods for cryogenic magnetocaloric refrigeration are provided. The system may include a magnetocaloric material including a single ion anisotropy and primary magnetic interactions of at most two dimensions. The system may also include a cryogenic fluid in communication with the magnetocaloric material, such that, when a magnetic field having a strength of at least a predetermined threshold is applied, the magnetocaloric material is configured to at least partially liquefy the cryogenic fluid. | 04-30-2015 |
20150104387 | PSMA-TARGETING COMPOUNDS AND USES THEREOF - Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) targeting compounds are described. Uses of the compounds for imaging, therapy, cell sorting, and tumor mapping are also described. | 04-16-2015 |
20150104188 | ACTIVE BEAM SHAPING SYSTEM AND METHOD USING SEQUENTIAL DEFORMABLE MIRRORS - An active optical beam shaping system includes a first deformable mirror arranged to at least partially intercept an entrance beam of light and to provide a first reflected beam of light, a second deformable mirror arranged to at least partially intercept the first reflected beam of light from the first deformable mirror and to provide a second reflected beam of light, and a signal processing and control system configured to communicate with the first and second deformable mirrors. The first deformable mirror, the second deformable mirror and the signal processing and control system together provide a large amplitude light modulation range to provide an actively shaped optical beam. | 04-16-2015 |
20150099290 | INSERTION OF CHARGE IN THE HYDROPHOBIC INTERIOR OF PROTEINS AS A STRATEGY FOR ENGINEERING PH-SENSITIVE SWITCHES - Methods are provided for engineering non-naturally occurring proteins comprising artificial pH-sensitive conformational switches that respond to a change in pH by causing a global unfolding of the proteins. Non-naturally occurring proteins comprising artificial pH-sensitive conformational switches that respond to a change in pH by causing a global unfolding of the proteins are also provided. | 04-09-2015 |
20150096559 | MANUAL VENTILATION FEEDBACK SENSOR FOR USE IN CLINICAL AND TRAINING SETTINGS - A manual ventilation feedback sensor for use in clinical and training settings is disclosed. Namely, a manual resuscitator device is disclosed that comprises a bag valve mask, a one-way valve, a manual ventilation bag, and a sensing module, wherein the sensing module can comprise a pressure sensor and/or flow transducer. Sensing module may further comprise a controller for processing information from the pressure sensor and/or flow transducer; namely for determining and indicating a ventilation rate. Indicators are provided to guide the user with respect to a target or desired ventilation rate. | 04-09-2015 |
20150094352 | METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR IMPROVING COGNITIVE FUNCTION - This invention relates to treating age-related cognitive impairment. This invention in particular relates to the use of inhibitors of synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A), such as levetiracetam, seletracetam, and brivaracetam, in improving cognitive function in subjects that exhibit age-related cognitive impairment or are at risk thereof, including, without limitation, subjects having or at risk for Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), Age-related Cognitive Decline (ARCD) or Age-Associated Memory Impairment (AAMI). | 04-02-2015 |
20150093779 | SYSTEM AND DEVICE FOR CHARACTERIZING CELLS - A diagnostic device includes a microscope configured to obtain image data on a plurality of cells and a computing device. The computing device is configured to receive the image data, identify at least a portion of each of the plurality of cells based on the received image data, determine at least one of a value of a morphological parameter for each identified at least a portion of the plurality of cells or a relative organization among the identified at least a portion of the plurality of cells, and calculate statistics for the plurality of cells based on the at least one of the determined values of the morphological parameter or the determined relative organization, the statistics including information suitable for distinguishing metastatic cells from non-metastatic cells. The diagnostic device further includes an output device configured to output the statistics for diagnosis. | 04-02-2015 |
20150087956 | X-RAY DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS AND MEDICAL IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS - An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the embodiment includes an X-ray tube, an X-ray detector, image generating unit generating time-series medical images of vasoganglion in a predetermined organ of a subject, region setting unit setting a first upstream and downstream region of a stenosis location in a first blood vessel in the vasoganglion on the medical images, curve generating unit generating a stenosis upstream and downstream curve indicating a change in pixel value in the time-series based on pixel values included in the first upstream and downstream region respectively, stenosis index generating unit generating a stenosis index indicating the degree of stenosis in the first blood vessel based on the stenosis upstream and downstream curve, and display unit displaying the stenosis index. | 03-26-2015 |
20150087053 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR INCREASING THE EXPRESSION AND SIGNALLING OF PROTEINS ON CELL SURFACES - The present invention relates to the field of protein expression. More specifically, the present invention provides compositions and methods for increasing the expression and signaling of proteins on cell surfaces. In particular embodiments, the present invention provides nucleic acids and amino acid sequences useful for improving/increasing protein expression on the cell surface. In several embodiments, the sequences are operably linked to the N-terminal end of the protein of interest. The nucleic acid sequence encoding the sequence tag and the protein comprise part of an expression vector. The protein is expressed with the N-terminal sequence tag. In certain embodiments, the sequences of the present invention can be used with one or more chaperone or accessory proteins. In particular embodiments, the one or more chaperone/accessory proteins are encoded by the same vector or separate vectors. In other embodiments, the chaperone/accessory proteins are encoded the same vector that encodes the protein of interest. | 03-26-2015 |
20150086511 | SURVIVAL, DIFFERENTIATION AND STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION OF HUMAN NEURAL STEM CELLS GRAFTED INTO THE ADULT RAT SPINAL CORD - The present invention provides methods and compositions for treating spinal cord diseases and injuires. The methods involve transplanting neural stem cells which have been previously expanded in vitro into a patient such that the cells can ameliorate the disease or injury. The stem cells to be transplanted are derived from spinal cord tissue. | 03-26-2015 |
20150080958 | COMPRESSION-DISTRACTION SPINAL FIXATION SYSTEM - Compression-distraction spinal fixation systems, and methods of performing compression-distraction spinal fixation, are provided that include screw-rod constructs having a ratcheting mechanism. Bone screws of the screw-rod constructs can have a pawl that engages ratchet teeth on the rod of the screw-rod construct. The bone screw can be ratcheted along the length of the rod to apply distractive or compressive forces. | 03-19-2015 |
20150080451 | SERINE PROTEASE INHIBITORS - Potent low molecular weight, highly selective, competitive non-peptidic serine protease inhibitors and their use in treating serine protease-associated diseases are disclosed. | 03-19-2015 |
20150079001 | IMAGING AGENTS AND METHODS OF IMAGING NAALADASE OR PSMA - The present invention relates to compounds particularly asymmetric urea compounds which are labeled with one or more radioisotopes and which are suitable for imaging or therapeutic treatment of tissues, organs, or tumors which express NAALADase and/or PSMA. In another embodiment, the invention relates to methods of imaging tissues, organs, or tumors using radiolabeled compounds of the invention, particularly tissues, organs, or tumors which express NAALADase and/or PSMA to which the compounds of the invention have an affinity. | 03-19-2015 |
20150073516 | Evaporative Therapeutic Hypothermia Device - The present invention provides a low-cost, low-power therapeutic hypothermia device for use in developing nations. The device includes a first and second receptacle separated by a space filled with a porous material such as sand. A cooling chemical can also be added to the porous material in order to speed cooling. Water is added to the porous material and a neonate is placed into the device for therapeutic hypothermia treatment. The neonate is monitored carefully using temperature sensors and a feedback system integrated into the device. Cooling can be modulated and/or warming commenced by adding Styrofoam blocks to raise the neonate off the surface of the device. | 03-12-2015 |
20150072360 | BIOMARKERS OF PULMONARY HYPERTENSION - Methods are disclosed for predicting or diagnosing pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH) and for determining the efficacy of PAH therapy using biomarkers. | 03-12-2015 |
20150057144 | NANOSTRUCTURED COMPOSITE MATERIALS COMPRISING REFRACTORY ELEMENTS - A bicontinuous non-porous microstructure comprising a refractory phase and a non-refractory phase, wherein the refractory phase substantially comprises one or more refractory elements and the non-refractory phase comprises a void filled by one or more materials that are different than a material comprising the non-refractory phase in a bicontinuous network from which the nanocomposite refractory material is formed and methods of making the same are disclosed. | 02-26-2015 |
20150051161 | Methods for the Detection of Advanced Glycation Endproducts and Markers for Disease - The present invention provides compositions and methods for detecting carboxymethyl-lysine (CML) and circulating receptor for advanced glycation end (RAGE) products, and methods for correlating CML and RAGE levels with age-related disease. In particular, serum CML and/or circulating receptor for advanced glycation end (RAGE) products can be used as a clinical biomarker in diagnostics to identify people who are at a higher risk of developing adverse ageing-related outcomes. | 02-19-2015 |
20150050288 | Treatment of TH17-Mediated Autoimmune Disease Via Inhibition of Stat3 - Methods for treating autoimmune disease using one or more inhibitor of STAT3 are provided herein. Also disclosed are methods for diagnosing and monitoring autoimmune disease or the propensity to develop autoimmune disease in a subject. The present invention demonstrates that inhibition of STAT3 prevents development of autoimmune disease in vivo. Based on this finding, Stat3 inhibitors can be used to treat and/or diagnose autoimmune disease in a subject. | 02-19-2015 |
20150045799 | Bone Harvesting - Methods and devices for harvesting cancellous bone are disclosed. The bone-harvesting device may include a cannula and a bone receptacle in communication with the cannula, wherein the cannula including a cutting surface positioned at or adjacent the distal end, the cutting surface being oriented at an angle, the angle being greater than 90 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the cannula, and the harvested bone is adapted to move from a position adjacent to the cutting surface through the cannula into the bone receptacle. The cutting surface of the cannula may be positioned at or adjacent the distal end, and positioned at least in part radially outward of the outer face of the cannula. The cannula may include a cutting surface positioned at or adjacent the distal end and an occluding geometry that partially occludes the distal end of the cannula adjacent the cutting surface. In addition, a suction port may be provided in communication with the bone receptacle. | 02-12-2015 |
20150045241 | GLOBAL DNA HYPOMETHYLATION AND BIOMARKERS FOR CLINICAL INDICATIONS IN CANCER - The present invention provides methods of determination of a global DNA methylation index (GDMI) in a sample from a subject, using a variety of methods which can detect global, genome-wide, and gene-specific DNA methylation to create methylation portraits that can be used for early detection, diagnosis, and clinical management in the personalized medicine space. Further, the invention provides methods of diagnosis of cancer, including gastric cancer and hepatocellular cancer in a subject, by comparing the GDMI in a sample obtained from a subject to the methylation index of standard controls. These methods allow diagnosis of gastric carcinoma and liver cancer in patients who may be asymptomatic or have inconclusive pathology, and allowing earlier treatment of the subject. | 02-12-2015 |
20150044141 | SYNTHESIS AND APPLICATION OF NOVEL IMAGING AGENTS CONJUGATED TO DPA 713 ANALOGS FOR IMAGING INFLAMMATION - The present invention provides analog compounds of DPA-713 which specifically bind the translocator protein (TSPO), which is upregulated in activated leukocytes, some malignant tumors and tissues involved in steroid biogenesis. These compounds are linked via a linking moiety to a variety of imaging agents, including, for example, near infra-red dyes. The compounds of the present invention are useful for both pre-clinical near-IR fluorescence imaging (NIRF) and use in optically-guided interventions including NIRF endoscopy. Methods of use in diagnosis and treatment of TSPO related disease are also provided. | 02-12-2015 |
20150039057 | IMPLANTABLE VESTIBULAR PROSTHESIS - An implantable nerve stimulation device has a sensor system, a data processor in communication with the sensor system, and a nerve stimulation system in communication with the data processor and constructed to provide electrical stimulation to at least one branch of at least one vestibulocochlear nerve. The nerve stimulation system includes an electrode array that has a first plurality of electrodes structured to be surgically implanted in electrical communication with a superior branch of the vestibular nerve, a second plurality of electrodes structured to be surgically implanted in electrical communication with a horizontal branch of the vestibular nerve, a third plurality of electrodes structured to be surgically implanted in electrical communication with a posterior branch of the vestibular nerve, and a common crus reference electrode structured to be surgically implanted into a common crus of the vestibular labyrinth. | 02-05-2015 |
20150031976 | PRETERM LABOR MONITOR - A system, method and apparatus for monitoring uterine and/or cervical activity indicative of labor in a patient. The system includes a medical device and a data processor in communication with the medical device. The medical device includes a structural component, a first electrode attached to the structural component, and a second electrode attached to the structural component. The structural component is structured to be in contact with a cervical surface and a vaginal surface of the patient, such that said first electrode is in electrical contact with said cervical surface and said second electrode is in electrical contact with said vaginal surface. The first electrode is adapted to receive an electrical activity of the cervical surface and the second electrode is adapted to receive an electrical activity of the uterus through the vaginal surface. The data processor is adapted to process the electrical activity of the electrodes to detect contractions on a surface of the patient indicative of labor. | 01-29-2015 |
20150031677 | TRIOXANE THIOACETAL MONOMERS AND DIMERS AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - Monomeric and dimeric trioxane thioacetals and methods of their use for treating subjects infected with malaria or other parasitic infectious diseases including, but not limited to, toxoplasmic infection; subjects afflicted with psychiatric conditions associated with toxoplasmic infection; and subjects afflicted with cancer. | 01-29-2015 |
20150031048 | CITRULLINATED BRAIN AND NEUROLOGICAL PROTEINS AS BIOMARKERS OF BRAIN INJURY OR NEURODEGENERATION - The present invention relates to the field of biomarkers. More specifically, the present invention relates to biomarkers useful in diagnosing brain injury or neurodegeneration. In one embodiment, a method for diagnosing brain injury in a patient comprises the steps of (a) obtaining a sample from the patient; (b) determining the ratio of citrullinated to unmodified arginine residues at one or more arginine residues of one or more brain injury biomarker proteins; and (c) correlating the ratio to a patient having brain injury or to a patient not having brain injury, thereby providing the diagnosis. | 01-29-2015 |
20150031022 | DNA METHYLATION MARKERS AND METHODS OF USE - The present invention provides methods for identifying metastases by detecting nucleic acid hypermethylation of one or more genes in one or more samples, and in particular in the lymph nodes. The invention further relates to DNA methylation as a predictor of disease recurrence and patient prognosis, specifically in the field of cancer biology. | 01-29-2015 |
20150030572 | IDENTIFICATION OF MOLECULAR PATHWAYS AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF FOR TREATING RETINAL NEURODEGENERATION AND OTHER NEURODEGENERATIVE DISORDERS - Drug targets, pathways, kits and methods for treating conditions related to neurodegeneration or ocular disease, are disclosed. | 01-29-2015 |
20150025546 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COCHLEAR IMPLANT SURGERY - A system for cochlear implant surgery includes a reference device having at least a portion adapted to be arranged at a fixed position relative to a cochlea of a patient to provide a reference position, an image acquisition and processing system adapted to acquire an image of at least a portion of the cochlea relative to the reference position and to provide an implant plan based at least partially on the acquired image, and an implant system adapted for implanting a cochlear lead array using the reference position and the implant plan. | 01-22-2015 |
20150025083 | PROCASPASE COMBINATION THERAPY FOR GLIOBLASTOMA - The invention provides compositions and methods for the induction of cell death, for example, cancer cell death. Combinations of compounds and related methods of use are disclosed, including the use of compounds in therapy for the treatment of cancer and selective induction of apoptosis in cells. The disclosed drug combinations can have lower neurotoxicity effects than other compounds and combinations of compounds. | 01-22-2015 |
20150024953 | METHODS FOR IDENTIFYING EUBACTERIA - This invention relates, e.g., to methods for detecting a | 01-22-2015 |
20150018301 | LRRK-2-Mediated Neuronal Toxicity - Leucine-rich repeat kinase-2 (LRRK2) mutations are a common cause of Parkinson's disease. Inhibitors of LRRK2 kinase that are protective in in vitro and in vivo models of LRRK2-induced neurodegeneration were identified. The presently disclosed subject matter establishes that LRRK2-induced degeneration of neurons in vivo is kinase dependent and that LRRK2 kinase inhibition provides a potential new neuroprotective paradigm for treating Parkinson's disease. | 01-15-2015 |
20140379256 | Mapping and Positioning System - A mapping and positioning apparatus may include an IMU module for monitoring movement through an environment, a scanner module, and a control unit. The IMU module is configured to monitor movement on the basis of detecting steps taken by a transporter. The scanner module may be configured to employ laser scanning to determine distances to objects or boundaries in the environment as the transporter moves the apparatus through the environment. The control unit may be configured to receive data from at least the IMU module and the scanner module and make an environmental determination to classify the environment. The control unit may be configured to generate map data based on the data received from the IMU module and the scanner module. The control unit may be configured to adaptively adjust processing of the data received from the IMU module and the scanner module based on a classification of the environment. | 12-25-2014 |
20140378995 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ANALYZING A TASK TRAJECTORY - A computer-implemented method of analyzing a sample task trajectory including obtaining, with one or more computers, position information of an instrument in the sample task trajectory, obtaining, with the one or more computers, pose information of the instrument in the sample task trajectory, comparing, with the one or more computers, the position information and the pose information for the sample task trajectory with reference position information and reference pose information of the instrument for a reference task trajectory, determining, with the one or more computers, a skill assessment for the sample task trajectory based on the comparison, and outputting, with the one or more computers, the determined skill assessment for the sample task trajectory. | 12-25-2014 |
20140377784 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR CHARACTERIZING A MYOPATHY - The invention provides compositions, methods, and kits diagnosing, monitoring, and otherwise characterizing a myopathy and for detecting the presence of autoantibodies in a biological sample. | 12-25-2014 |
20140371096 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR CHARACTERIZING THYROID NEOPLASIA - The present invention features compositions and methods for characterizing thyroid lesions (e.g., benign follicular adenomas (FAs), papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTC) and follicular variant papillary thyroid carcinomas (FVPTCs)). | 12-18-2014 |
20140370099 | ARTIFICIAL ANTIGEN PRESENTING CELLS HAVING A DEFINED AND DYNAMIC SHAPE - Compositions and methods comprising asymmetrical artificial antigen presenting cells (aAPCs) are disclosed. The non-spherical aAPCs more closely mimic endogenous cell-cell interactions and can be used for antigen-specific immunotherapy. | 12-18-2014 |
20140369975 | BIOMATERIALS COMPRISING HYALURONIC ACID BINDING PEPTIDES AND BIFUNCTIONAL BIOPOLYMER MOLECULES FOR HYALURONIC ACID RETENTION AND TISSUE ENGINEERING APPLICATIONS - The present invention provides novel biomaterial compositions and methods having a technology to improve retention of hyaluronic acid (HA). The biomaterial compositions utilize small HA binding peptides that is tethered to synthetic biocompatible polymers. When tethered to the polymers, the peptide region allows the polymers to bind to HA. The biocompatible polymers are modified to contain a crosslinking group so that the HA can be incorporated into a scaffold and retained in place. The novel biomaterial | 12-18-2014 |
20140369931 | PSMA-BINDING AGENTS AND USES THEREOF - Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) binding compounds having radioisotope substituents are described, as well as chemical precursors thereof. Compounds include pyridine containing compounds, compounds having phenylhydrazine structures, and acylated lysine compounds. The compounds allow ready incorporation of radionuclides for single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET) for imaging, for example, prostate cancer cells and angiogenesis. | 12-18-2014 |
20140363067 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR TOMOGRAPHIC RECONSTRUCTION - A method for processing an image of a series of images includes receiving first data representing a first previously reconstructed image and receiving second data representing a second image. A second image is reconstructed in accordance with the first data, the second data and a noise model. The noise model is a likelihood estimation. The second image is reconstructed in accordance with a penalty function. The penalty function is a roughness penalty function. The penalty function is updated by iteratively adjusting an image volume estimate. The penalty function is updated by iteratively adjusting a registration term. The penalty function is a prior image penalty function and the prior image penalty function and a registration term are jointly optimized. The penalty function is determined in accordance with a noise model. The function is a p-norm penalty function. | 12-11-2014 |
20140356957 | Biological Pacemaker - Disclosed are methods and systems for modulating electrical behavior of cardiac cells. Preferred methods include administering a polynucleotide or cell-based composition that can modulate cardiac contraction to desired levels, i.e., the administered composition functions as a biological pacemaker. | 12-04-2014 |
20140350387 | ELECTROMAGNETIC TRACKING SYSTEM AND METHODS OF USING SAME - An electromagnetic tracking system including a patient support element and an electromagnetic field generator. The patient support element is superposed relative to the electromagnetic field generator, and the electromagnetic field generator is selectively moveable relative to the patient support element. | 11-27-2014 |
20140349290 | PKD MUTATIONS AND EVALUATION OF SAME - The present invention relates to methods of detecting novel mutations in a PKD1 and/or PKD2 gene that have been determined to be associated with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) in order to detect or predict the occurrence of ADPKD in an individual. | 11-27-2014 |
20140349005 | BIOSENSOR SYSTEMS AND RELATED METHODS FOR DETECTING ANALYTES IN AQUEOUS AND BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENTS - Disclosed herein are biosensor systems and related methods for detecting analytes in aqueous and biologic environments. A biosensor system for detecting binding of an analyte of interest may include a detector configured to detect a change in an electrical property on a surface thereof. The detector may be a FET. The system also may include a passive layer disposed on a top surface of the detector. Further, the system may include a hydrophobic layer disposed on the passive layer. The system also may include a receptor-attachment material configured for binding to an analyte. A receptor may bind to the analyte, and the receptor may be attached to the receptor-attachment material. The binding of the analyte to the receptor can cause the change of the electrical property at the surface. In response to the change for example, a current may change for indicating the binding of the analyte to the receptor. | 11-27-2014 |
20140346045 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SEPARATING METALLIC AND NONMETALLIC PARTICLES IN A MIXED-PARTICLE SUSPENSION - A continuous flow particle separation system for separating metallic and nonmetallic particles from a mixed-particle suspension includes a fluid channeling component defining an input channel and first and second output channels fluidly connected to the input channel at a bifurcated junction, a first electrode and a second electrode arranged proximate the input channel at least partially prior to the bifurcated junction, and an alternating current (AC) electric power source electrically connected to the first and second electrodes. The first and second electrodes have shapes configured to provide a spatially-gradient electric field across the input channel, and the AC electric power source is configured to provide an AC electric potential to the first and second electrodes to cause a separation of the metallic and nonmetallic particles by dielectrophoresis due to a difference in dielectrophoretic forces imposed on the metallic particles relative to those of the nanometallic particles such that first output fluid flow in the first output channel has an enriched concentration of metallic particles and second output fluid flow in the second output channel has an enriched concentration of nonmetallic particles relative to the mixed-particle suspension in said input channel. | 11-27-2014 |
20140346044 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SEPARATING METALLIC AND NONMETALLIC PARTICLES IN A MIXED-PARTICLE SUSPENSION - A continuous flow particle separation system for separating metallic and nonmetallic particles from a mixed-particle suspension includes a fluid channeling component defining an input channel and first and second output channels fluidly connected to the input channel at a bifurcated junction, a first electrode and a second electrode arranged proximate the input channel at least partially prior to the bifurcated junction, and an alternating current (AC) electric power source electrically connected to the first and second electrodes. The first and second electrodes have shapes configured to provide a spatially-gradient electric field across the input channel, and the AC electric power source is configured to provide an AC electric potential to the first and second electrodes to cause a separation of the metallic and nonmetallic particles by dielectrophoresis due to a difference in dielectrophoretic forces imposed on the metallic particles relative to those of the nanometallic particles such that first output fluid flow in the first output channel has an enriched concentration of metallic particles and second output fluid flow in the second output channel has an enriched concentration of nonmetallic particles relative to the mixed-particle suspension in said input channel. | 11-27-2014 |
20140342364 | METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF BACTERIAL INFECTIONS - The peptidoglycan layer is a vital component of the bacterial cell wall, which comprises 4→3 and 3→3 transpeptide cross-linkages, the formation of which are catalyzed by D,D- and L,D-transpeptidases, respectively. Methods for the treatment of bacterial infections with agents that inhibit L,D-transpeptidases, either alone or in combination with D,D-transpeptidase inhibitors, are provided herein. Also provided are methods for the treatment of chronic stage tuberculosis with agents that inhibit enzyme with L,D-transpeptidase activity. | 11-20-2014 |
20140341804 | HOMOMULTIVALENT AND HETEROMULTIVALENT INHIBITORS OF PROSTATE SPECIFIC MEMBRANE ANTIGEN (PMSA) AND USES THEREOF - The present invention provides bivalent and multivalent ligands with a view to improving the affinity and pharmacokinetic properties of a urea class of PSMA inhibitors. The compounds and their synthesis can be generalized to multivalent compounds of other target antigens. Because they present multiple copies of the pharmacophore, multivalent ligands can bind to receptors with high avidity and affinity, thereby serving as powerful inhibitors. The modular multivalent scaffolds of the present invention, in one or more embodiments, contains a lysine-based (α-, ε-)dialkyne residue for incorporating two or more antigen binding moieties, such as PSMA binding Lys-Glu urea moieties, exploiting click chemistry and one or more additional lysine residues for subsequent modification with an imaging and/or therapeutic nuclides or a cytotoxic ligands for tumor cell killing. | 11-20-2014 |
20140336781 | HYBRID AUGMENTED REALITY MULTIMODAL OPERATION NEURAL INTEGRATION ENVIRONMENT - A method of controlling a device relative to one or more objects in an environment of a user employing the device may include receiving a volitional input from the user indicative of a task to be performed relative to an object with the device, receiving object targeting information associated with interaction between the device and the object where the object targeting information is presented in an augmented reality context, integrating the volitional input with the object targeting information to determine a control command to direct the device to interact with the object, and providing the control command to the device. | 11-13-2014 |
20140336396 | N-HYDROXYLSULFONAMIDE DERIVATIVES AS NEW PHYSIOLOGICALLY USEFUL NITROXYL DONORS - The invention relates to N-hydroxysulfonamide derivatives that donate nitroxyl (HNO) under physiological conditions and are useful in treating and/or preventing the onset and/or development of diseases or conditions that are responsive to nitroxyl therapy, including heart failure and ischemia/reperfusion injury. Novel N-hydroxysulfonamide derivatives release NHO at a controlled rate under physiological conditions, and the rate of HNO release is modulated by varying the nature and location of functional groups on the N-hydroxysulfonamide derivatives. | 11-13-2014 |
20140336282 | MOLECULAR SIGNATURES OF INVASIVE CANCER SUBPOPULATIONS - Carcinomas typically invade as a cohesive multicellular unit, a process termed collective invasion. It remains unclear how different subpopulations of cancer cells contribute to this process. We developed three-dimensional (3D) organoid assays to identify the most invasive cancer cells in primary breast tumors. Collective invasion was led by specialized cancer cells that were defined by their expression of basal epithelial genes, such as cytokeratin-14 (K14) and p63. Furthermore, K14+ cells led collective invasion in the major human breast cancer subtypes. Importantly, lumenal cancer cells were observed to convert phenotypically to invasive leaders following induction of basal epithelial genes. Although only a minority of cells within lumenal tumors expressed basal epithelial genes, knockdown of either K14 or p63 was sufficient to block collective invasion. Our data reveal that heterotypic interactions between epithelial subpopulations are critical to collective invasion. We suggest that targeting the basal invasive program could limit metastatic progression. | 11-13-2014 |
20140336138 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR SCREENING AND TREATMENT OF STURGE-WEBER SYNDROME, KLIPPEL-TRENAUNAY-WEBER SYNDROME, AND PORT-WINE STAINS (PWSS) - Compositions and methods for treatment of Sturge-Weber Syndrome, Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber Syndrome, Port-Wine Stains and related neurocutaneous disorders are provided. Cell lines having the somatic mutation GNAQ p.Arg183Gln amino acid substitution, which was found to be the cause of port-wine stains (prevalence 1 in 300) and Sturge-Weber syndrome are also provided. Compositions and methods for treatment of uveal melanoma are also provided herein. Methods of screening novel compounds and compositions useful in increasing RGS2 and/or RGS4 expression and function in vitro, and for treatment of Sturge-Weber Syndrome, Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber Syndrome, Port-Wine Stains and related neurocutaneous disorders are provided are also provided. | 11-13-2014 |
20140335530 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR MODULATING AN IMMUNE RESPONSE - The invention generally features compositions and methods for modulating an immune response. In particular embodiments, such compositions and methods modulate regulatory T cell suppressive activity. | 11-13-2014 |
20140334709 | 3D-2D IMAGE REGISTRATION FOR MEDICAL IMAGING - A method of 3D-2D registration for medical imaging includes the following steps: providing a first input interface for acquiring a three-dimensional image; providing a second input interface for acquiring a fixed two-dimensional image using an imaging system that includes a source and a detector and that has an unknown source-detector geometry; initializing image transformation parameters and source-detector geometry parameters; generating a reconstructed two-dimensional image from the three-dimensional image using the image transformation parameters and the source-detector geometry parameters; determining an image similarity metric between the fixed two-dimensional image and the reconstructed two-dimensional image; and updating the image transformation parameters and the source-detector geometry parameters using the image similarity metric, and a corresponding non-transitory computer-readable medium and apparatus. | 11-13-2014 |
20140329913 | NANOPARTICLES WITH ENHANCED MUCOSAL PENETRATION OR DECREASED INFLAMMATION - Nanoparticles formed by emulsion of one or more core polymers, one or more surface altering materials, and one or more low molecular weight emulsifiers have been developed. The particles are made by dissolving the one or more core polymers in an organic solvent, adding the solution of the one or more core polymers to an aqueous solution or suspension of the emulsifier to form an emulsion, and then adding the emulsion to a second solution or suspension of the emulsifier to effect formation of the nanoparticles. In the preferred embodiment, the molecular weight of the emulsifiers is less than 1500, 1300, 1200, 1000, 800, 600, or 500 amu. Preferred emulsifiers include cholic acid sodium salt, dioctyl sulfosuccinate sodium, hexadecyltrimethyl ammonium bromide, saponin, TWEEN® 20, TWEEN® 80, and sugar esters. The surface altering materials are present in an amount effective to make the surface charge of the particles neutral or essentially neutral when the one or more emulsifiers are charged. The emulsifiers have an emulsification capacity of at least about 50%, preferably at least 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, or 95%. | 11-06-2014 |
20140328813 | Combination Bacteriolytic Therapy for the Treatment of Tumors - Current approaches for treating cancer are limited, in part, by the inability of drugs to affect the poorly vascularized regions of tumors. We have found that spores of anaerobic bacteria in combination with agents which interact with microtubules can cause the destruction of both the vascular and avascular compartments of tumors. Two classes of microtubule inhibitors were found to exert markedly different effects. Some agents that inhibited microtubule synthesis, such as vinorelbine, caused rapid, massive hemorrhagic necrosis when used in combination with spores. In contrast, agents that stabilized microtubules, such as the taxane, docetaxel, resulted in slow tumor regressions that killed most neoplastic cells. Remaining cells in the poorly perfused regions of tumors could be eradicated by sporulated bacteria. Mechanistic studies showed that the microtubule destabilizers, but not the microtubule stabilizers, radically reduced blood flow to tumors, thereby enlarging the hypoxic niche in which spores could germinate. A single intravenous injection of spores plus selected microtubule-interacting agents was able to cause regressions of several tumors in the absence of excessive toxicity. | 11-06-2014 |
20140328457 | DIFFERENTIAL PHASE CONTRAST X-RAY IMAGING SYSTEM AND COMPONENTS - A differential phase contrast X-ray imaging system includes an X-ray illumination system, a beam splitter arranged in an optical path of the X-ray illumination system, and a detection system arranged in an optical path to detect X-rays after passing through the beam splitter. | 11-06-2014 |
20140323798 | Middle Ear Implant Sensor - A middle ear implant may include a first interface portion configured to interface with a first structure of a middle ear of a patient, a second interface portion configured to interface with a second structure of the middle ear of the patient, a shaft configured to connect the first interface portion and the second interface portion, and a sensor disposed at one end of the shaft, between the shaft and one of the first interface portion or the second interface portion. The sensor may be configured to provide a DC signal output indicative of static pressure on the sensor based on placement of the sensor between the first and second structures. The sensor may also be configured to provide an AC signal output indicative of a frequency response of the implant in response to the sensor being coupled to an output device. | 10-30-2014 |
20140323321 | DETECTION OF HEAD AND NECK CANCER USING HYPERMETHYLATED GENE DETECTION - Methods and kits for detection of a cell proliferative disorder, such as head and neck cancer are provided utilizing analysis of the methylation state of targeted genes or regulatory regions of genes in a saliva or serum sample are described. The presence of hypermethylation of the genes or their regulatory regions is indicative of the presence, or a stronger possibility of recurrence and or a poorer prognosis in subjects with cancer. | 10-30-2014 |
20140322133 | TSPO-TARGETING COMPOUNDS AND USES THEREOF - Translocator protein (TSPO) targeting compounds are described. Methods of making the compounds, and uses of the compounds for imaging are also described. | 10-30-2014 |
20140320378 | THREE DIMENSIONAL SELF-FOLDED MICROANTENNA - Three-dimensional (3D) devices that can receive, harvest or transmit electromagnetic energy with increased efficiency as compared to planar, two-dimensional devices, and methods of making thereof, are disclosed. | 10-30-2014 |
20140315746 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR THE TREATMENT OF PROSTATE CARCINOMA - Compositions and methods for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of prostate cancer, well as for treatment selection. | 10-23-2014 |
20140315173 | Simulation Add-On Device to Allow Anterior-Posterior and/or Anterior-Lateral Defibrillation - The present invention takes the form of a device for training a user in defibrillation technique. The device includes a non-conductive belt that encircles a chest of a typical training simulator. The device includes conductive studs disposed in the AP or AL position, and therefore allows for training of the AP or AL defibrillation technique, respectively. The device can be used in conjunction with a high-technology simulator. In such a case the conductive studs redirect simulated cardiac rhythm signals and defibrillator electricity, allowing for the simulation of defibrillation in the AP position. The device can also be used in conjunction with a low-technology simulator or a pillow to provide AP and/or AL defibrillation functionality. In such a case, a rhythm simulator is used to simulate heart rhythm and dissipate defibrillation energy. | 10-23-2014 |
20140314740 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR THE PREVENTION OR TREATMENT OF DIABETIC COMPLICATIONS - The invention provides compositions and methods for the prevention, amelioration, and/or treatment of diabetes complications, including ocular diseases associated with increased glucose transport and/or oxidative stress. | 10-23-2014 |
20140309694 | INTERSEGMENTAL MOTION PRESERVATION SYSTEM FOR USE IN THE SPINE AND METHODS FOR USE THEREOF - Medical devices and kits for dynamically stabilizing or preserving motion in a spine and limiting adjacent, non-adjacent, or isolated segment degeneration of the spine while providing a controlled, determinable range of motion at the treated site, as well as methods for surgical use of the system. | 10-16-2014 |
20140303517 | CORD BLOOD PERFUSION AND COLLECTION SYSTEM - An embodiment in accordance with the present invention provides a device and method for collecting cord blood from the umbilical cord and placenta. The device includes a vascular access device, a portable tray container, and a perfusion pump device. The vascular access device includes two vascular access components (VACs) that clamp onto the umbilical cord at the time of delivery to accurately guide cannulation of the vein. After clamping on the VACs, the placenta and VACs are placed into the portable tray container. The portable tray container is a closable and disposable container which features a dock for accepting the VACs and impaling the umbilical vein for vascular access. The dock is also connected to perfusate and collection bags, located on the outside surfaces of the tray. The tray and perfusate and collection bags interfaced with the perfusion pump device to flush out and collect the stem cells from the umbilical cord and placenta. | 10-09-2014 |
20140303231 | METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR TREATING OR PREVENTING PRURITIS - The invention features therapeutic compositions comprising agents useful for the treatment or prevention of pruritis, and methods useful for identifying such agents. | 10-09-2014 |
20140303203 | COMPOUNDS FOR TREATING PERIPHERAL; NEUROPATHIES AND OTHER NEURODEGENERATIVE; DISORDERS - Compounds and methods for treating or preventing a neurodegenerative disease, disorder or condition associated with the overall activity of hsp90 but not with the ATPase activity of hsp90, including peripheral neuropathy, such as peripheral neuropathy caused by chemotherapy or diabetes, disorders 5 of the central nervous system, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinsons disease, and motor neuron diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), in a subject are provided. | 10-09-2014 |
20140302306 | Cranial Bone Surrogate and Methods of Manufacture Thereof - A surrogate multilayered material includes a first fiber reinforced layer; the first reinforced layer including a crosslinked polymer and fibers; a second fiber reinforced layer; the second reinforced layer including the crosslinked polymer and the fibers; a foam layer; the foam layer disposed between the first fiber reinforced layer and the second fiber reinforced layer; where opposite faces of the foam layer are in direct contact with the first fiber reinforced layer and the second fiber reinforced layer; the foam layer having a compressive strength of about 3.5 to about 4.5 MPa, when measured as per ASTM-D-1621-73, and a shear strength of 1.50 to about 2.15 MPa, when measured as per ASTM-C-273. | 10-09-2014 |
20140301943 | INDUCTION OF THYROID IODIDE-HANDLING GENE EXPRESSION IN HUMAN CANCERS - Dual suppression of the MAP kinase and PI3K/Akt pathways showed synergistic or greatly enhanced anti-melanoma cell effects, compared to suppression of a single pathway, including the inhibition of cell proliferation, transformation and invasion, induction of G | 10-09-2014 |
20140294909 | NANOCOMPOSITES OF GOLD AND POLYMERS - A layer-by-layer (LbL) system, which alternately ionically complexes anionic AuNPs to two unique cationic polymers (disulfide-reducible and hydrolytically degradable) and two anionic nucleic acids, is disclosed. | 10-02-2014 |
20140294890 | Recombinant Adenovirus Vaccines - Recombinant adenovirus vaccines comprising recombinant adenoviruses whose hexon, fiber or protein IX capsid proteins are engineered to include exogenous peptide segments, e.g. vaccines for human papillomavirus (HPV) and malaria. | 10-02-2014 |
20140288022 | CROSS-LINKED POLYMER MATRICES, AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING SAME - Functionalized chondroitin sulfate, cross-linked polymer matrices comprising functionalized chondroitin sulfate, and methods of making and using the same are provided. Such polymer matrices may be used for tissue engineering, reconstructing cartilage, and the like. Kits are also provided for detection of cartilage degrading enzymes. | 09-25-2014 |
20140287951 | Detection of Auto-Antibodies to Specific Glycans as Diagnostic Tests for Autoimmune Diseases - The invention provides uses, methods, and kits for diagnosing an autoimmune disease, particularly scleroderma and systemic lupus erythematosus, in a subject by detecting the presence of one or more antibodies that specifically bind to one or more glycans in a subject sample. | 09-25-2014 |
20140287513 | TRICHOPLUSIA NI PIGGYBAC TRANSPOSASES WITH REDUCED INTEGRATION ACTIVITY - The present invention is directed to nucleic acid and amino acid sequences of a novel piggyBac transposase enzymes created by modifying the transposase of | 09-25-2014 |
20140287393 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR THE EVALUATION OF OR IMPROVEMENT OF MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY SKILLS - A system to assist in at least one of the evaluation of or the improvement of skills to perform minimally invasive surgery includes a minimally invasive surgical system, a video system arranged to record at least one of a user's interaction with the minimally invasive surgical system or tasks performed with the minimally invasive surgical system, and a data storage and processing system in communication with the minimally invasive surgical system and in communication with the video system. The minimally invasive surgical system provides at least one of motion data, ergonomics adjustment data, electrical interface interaction data or mechanical interface interaction data of at least a component of the minimally invasive surgical system in conjunction with time registered video signals from the video system. The data storage and processing system processes the at least one of motion data, ergonomics adjustment data, electrical interface interaction data or mechanical interface interaction data to provide a performance metric in conjunction with the time registered video signals to be made available to an expert for evaluation. | 09-25-2014 |
20140286818 | Structural Component that Will Fragment into Particles of Selected Geometry and Reactivity - An embodiment in accordance with the present invention provides a method for creating and consolidating fragments and a useable structure formed from said consolidated fragments. The method includes swaging a metal powder into a first consolidated structure. The consolidated structure is ground to form particles and the particles are sifted to select those with a predetermined diameter. The particles having the predetermined diameter can then be swaged into a second consolidated structure. The resultant second consolidated structure is therefore configured to fragment controllably. The second consolidated structure can also be formed from reactive metal laminates such that the structure also has chemical energy. | 09-25-2014 |
20140274787 | BIOMARKER FOR OVARIAN CANCER CTAP3-RELATED PROTEINS - The present invention provides a protein-based biomarker that is useful in qualifying ovarian cancer status in a patient. In particular, the biomarker of this invention is useful to classify a subject sample as ovarian cancer or non-ovarian cancer. The biomarker can be detected by SELDI mass spectrometry. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274767 | DNA METHYLATION MARKERS FOR METASTATIC PROSTATE CANCER - The present invention relates to the field of cancer. More specifically, the present invention provides methods and compositions useful for assessing prostate cancer. In a specific embodiment, present inventors have developed and applied a new technology and associated computation methods enabling simultaneous genome-scale analysis of genetic (copy number) and epigenetic (total methylation (TM) and allele-specific methylation (ASM) alternation, This method, called MBD-SNP, features affinity enrichment or methylated genomic DNA fragments using a methyl-binding domain polypeptide. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274765 | CARDIAC STEM CELL AND MYOCYTE SECRETED PARACRINE FACTORS AND USESTHEREOF - The invention relates to secreted proteins from cardiac stem cells (cardiospheres and cardiosphere-derived cells) or myocytes for diagnostic and/or therapeutic use | 09-18-2014 |
20140273220 | Self-Organized Vascular Networks from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells in a Synthetic Matrix - A bicellular vascular population derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) undergoes morphogenesis and assembly in a synthetic hydrogel. It is shown that hPSCs can be induced to co-differentiate into early vascular cells (EVCs) in a clinically-relevant strategy dependent upon Notch activation. These EVCs mature into ECs and pericytes, and self-organize to form vascular networks in an engineered matrix. Upon in vivo implantation, multicellular human vascular networks are functionally perfused. Thus, a derived bicellular population is exploited for its intrinsic self-assembly capability to create functional microvasculature in a deliverable matrix. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273217 | PRODRUG ACTIVATION IN CANCER CELLS USING MOLECULAR SWITCHES - The present invention features a novel protein engineering strategy by combining the domains of two independent proteins into a molecular switch. The invention features polypeptides comprising a prodrug activating enzyme and a protein that binds a cancer specific marker, polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides, and molecular switches for converting a prodrug into a toxin, comprising the polypeptides. The invention also features methods for converting a prodrug into a toxin, methods for treating cancer, and methods for making the molecular switches, as well as kits. | 09-18-2014 |
20140272951 | METHODS OF IDENTIFYING MUTATIONS IN NUCLEIC ACID - The present invention provides methods of identifying mutations in nucleic acid. Also provided herein are methods of identifying subjects having Hirschsprung disease risk and diagnostic markers for Hirschsprung disease. | 09-18-2014 |
20140271793 | THERAPEUTIC ELECTROSPUN FIBER COMPOSITIONS - The instant invention provides electrospun fiber compositions comprising one or more polymers and one or more biologically active agents. In specific embodiments, the biologically active agents are nerve growth factors. In certain embodiments, the electrospun fiber compositions comprising one or more biologically active agents are on the surface of a film, or a tube. The tubes comprising the electrospun fiber compositions of the invention can be used, for example, as nerve guide conduits. | 09-18-2014 |
20140267697 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REAL-TIME MECHANICAL AND DOSIMETRIC QUALITY ASSURANCE MEASUREMENTS IN RADIATION THERAPY - A method and device for real-time mechanical and dosimetric quality assurance measurements in radiation therapy provides a unified measurement of mechanical motion and radiation components of the machine. The device includes an imaging surface for receiving multiple energy sources. The imaging surface has an imaging plane positioned on a same plane as an isocenter of a medical accelerator. A camera measures and records data related to the multiple energy sources. A mirror system can be used to direct the multiple energy sources to the camera for further processing. However, in some instances the mirror system may not be necessary. Accordingly, a single device can be used to unify the measurement of mechanical motion and radiation component of the machine. The device can also include computer control in order to automate the movement of the device and/or automation of the QA protocol. | 09-18-2014 |
20140264032 | TERAHERTZ TIME-DOMAIN SPECTROSCOPIC ELLIPSOMETRY SYSTEM - A terahertz time-domain spectroscopic ellipsometry system includes a sample stage, a terahertz emitter configured to provide pulses of terahertz radiation with preselected polarization components to illuminate a sample on the sample stage along an incident direction, and a coherent terahertz detection system arranged to coherently detect pulses of terahertz radiation from the terahertz emitter along an emerging direction after at least one of reflecting from or passing through the sample. The sample stage is rotatable to vary a relative angle between the incident direction and the emerging direction, and the coherent terahertz detection system substantially maintains alignment for amplitude and polarization detection as the relative angle is varied. | 09-18-2014 |
20140258306 | Novel Simulation and Permutation Methods for the Determination of Temporal Association between Two Events - An embodiment in accordance with the present invention provides methods and software for determining an association between two health events, temporally. The methods can be implemented on a computing device either individually, or as a group, and are noted as simulation, permutation shuffling, and permutation sliding. Simulation, permutation shuffling, and permutation sliding each use the comparison of the experimentally found occurrence of association between the two health events to the null distribution of the association statistics, obtained by independently simulating the two health events. In particular, these methods of determining association between two health events can be used for determining an association between reflux and apnea in infants. However, these methods can also be applied more generally to determining a potential relationship between health or other events in the temporal plane. | 09-11-2014 |
20140256778 | HIGH AFFINITY BETA LACTAMASE INHIBITORS - Inhibitors of beta lactamases and their use in treating bacterial infections are disclosed. | 09-11-2014 |
20140255433 | PDE5 INHIBITOR COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR IMMUNOTHERAPY - The invention features methods and compositions featuring a PDE5 inhibitor for treating or preventing immunological-mediated disease in a subject. | 09-11-2014 |
20140253684 | VISUALIZATION OF REGISTERED SUBSURFACE ANATOMY - A system and method for visualization of subsurface anatomy includes obtaining a first image from a first camera and a second image from a second camera or a second channel of the first camera, where the first and second images contain shared anatomical structures. The second camera and the second channel of the first camera are capable of imaging anatomy beneath the surface in ultra-violet, visual, or infra-red spectrum. A data processor is configured for computing registration of the first image to the second image to provide visualization of subsurface anatomy during surgical procedures. A visual interface displays the registered visualization of the first and second images. The system and method are particularly useful for imaging during minimally invasive surgery, such as robotic surgery. | 09-11-2014 |
20140249499 | Self-Actuating Chemomechanical Devices for Delivery and Extended Release of Therapeutic Agents in the Gastrointestinal Tract - The presently disclosed delivery systems utilize microtools, also referred to as theragrippers, to deliver a drug or other therapeutic agent to targeted tissue. More particularly, the drug delivery system and methods provide a delivery system that is capable of anchoring to a tissue site and then delivering a drug or therapeutic agent to the tissue directly to or in the vicinity of the site over an extended period of time. Any number of theragrippers may be deployed as desired to deliver different doses of a desired drug or therapeutic agent. The theragrippers also can be biodegradable such that they remain in place for an extended period of time and then degrade without adversely affecting the surrounding tissue. | 09-04-2014 |
20140249403 | SELF-ASSEMBLED, MICROPATTERNED, AND RADIO FREQUENCY (RF) SHIELDED BIOCONTAINERS AND THEIR USES FOR REMOTE SPATIALLY CONTROLLED CHEMICAL DELIVERY - The present invention relates to a nanoscale or microscale particle for encapsulation and delivery of materials or substances, including, but not limited to, cells, drugs, tissue, gels and polymers contained within the particle, with subsequent release of the therapeutic materials in situ, methods of fabricating the particle by folding a 2D precursor into the 3D particle, and the use of the particle in in-vivo or in-vitro applications. The particle can be in any polyhedral shape and its surfaces can have either no perforations or nano/microscale perforations. The particle is coated with a biocompatible metal, e g gold, or polymer e g parvlene, layer and the surfaces and hinges of the particle are made of any metal or polymer combinations. | 09-04-2014 |
20140249303 | METHODS FOR DETECTING A POLYMORPHISM IN THE NFKB1 GENE PROMOTER - The present invention discloses a functional relationship between a recognized disease condition and a polymorphism in the nucleotide factor kappa B promoter (NFKB1). This relationship provides a platform for methods of altering promoter activity and for determining similar relationships between specific pathologies and identified polymorphisms. A statistically significant risk of developing ulcerative colitis was shown to be correlated with the presence of an ATTG insertion/deletion in the NFKB1 promoter and is likely to apply also to a variety of other inflammatory diseases. | 09-04-2014 |
20140249302 | METHODS FOR MAKING AND USING MOLECULAR SWITCHES INVOLVING CIRCULAR PERMUTATION - The invention provides molecular switches which couple external signals to functionality, and combinatorial methods of making and using the same involving circular permutation of nucleic acid and amino acid sequences. The switches according to the invention can be used, for example, to regulate gene transcription, target drug delivery to specific cells, transport drugs intracellularly, control drug release, provide conditionally active proteins, perform metabolic engineering, and modulate cell signaling pathways. Libraries comprising the switches, expression vectors and host cells for expressing the switches are also provided. | 09-04-2014 |
20140243662 | Method for Estimating Flow Rates and Pressure Gradients in Arterial Networks from Patient Specific Computed Tomography Angiogram-Based Contrast Distribution Data - An embodiment in accordance with the present invention provides a method for non-invasively determining the functional severity of arterial stenosis in a selected portion of an arterial network. The method includes gathering patient-specific data related to concentration of a contrast agent within an arterial network using a coronary computed tomography angiography scan (CCTA). The data can be gathered under rest or stress conditions. Estimation of a loss coefficient (K) can be used to eliminate the need for data gathered under stress. The data is used to calculate a transluminal attenuation gradient (TAG). The data may be corrected for imaging artifacts at any stage of the analysis. TAFE is used to determine an estimate of flow velocity. Once velocity is determined, pressure gradient, coronary flow reserve, and/or fractional flow reserve can be determined through a variety of methods. These estimates can be used to estimate functional severity of stenosis. | 08-28-2014 |
20140243618 | Garment For Monitoring Physiological Functions And Method Of Use Thereof - A plurality of sensors are embedded in a form fitting garment similar to exercise togs such that the sensors are held in contact with or close proximity to the body. The sensors are connected via a plurality wires to an electronics module which is unintrusive being literally in its ultimate configuration the size of a credit card. A range of thickness, from 6 mm (6 credit cards) down to 1 mm or less, is possible for the module inclusive of a rechargeable lithium polymer battery. The electronics module can be easily removed for garment maintenance (laundering). | 08-28-2014 |
20140243401 | METHODS OF SCREENING COMPOUNDS THAT ARE CYTOTOXIC TO TUMOR CELLS AND METHODS OF TREATING TUMOR CELLS USING SUCH COMPOUND - The invention relates to methods of screening to find compounds that are cytotoxic to tumor cells and methods of treating tumor cells using these compounds. In particular, the invention relates to methods of screening for compounds that inhibit mammalian mitochondrial fatty acid synthase (mmFAS) and methods of treating tumor cells using mmFAS inhibitors. This invention also provides methods for inhibiting or preventing cancer cell survival by the administration of mitochondrial fatty acid synthase (FAS) inhibitors. Specifically, this invention describes a method for prohibiting or delaying the development of cancer, the growth of cancer or invasion of cancer from pre-malignant (noninvasive) lesions, or metastasis of cancer based upon the findings that this method compromises energy balance in cancer cells, in turn compromising their basic functions and causing their cell death. Compositions of matter containing mitochondrial FAS inhibition activity are also provided, as well as applications based upon the requisite role of mitochondrial FAS in cancer cell homeostasis. | 08-28-2014 |
20140243267 | USE OF NRF2 INDUCERS TO TREAT EPIDERMOLYSIS BULLOSA SIMPLEX AND RELATED DISEASES - The present invention relates to methods and compositions for the prevention and treatment of keratin-based skin diseases. In particular, the application describes compositions and methods of treating a patient suffering from skin blistering comprising the use of phase II enzyme inducers. | 08-28-2014 |
20140235923 | DOSE COMPUTATION FOR RADIATION THERAPY USING HETEROGENEITY COMPENSATED SUPERPOSITION - A system for radiation therapy includes a radiation planning system. The radiation planning system includes a data processor that is adapted to receive information concerning an intended radiation treatment region of a body, receive a calculated initial energy released per unit mass for a plurality of locations within the body, compute a radiation dose at a plurality of locations within the radiation treatment region based on the calculated initial energy released per unit mass and including radiation dose contributions due to scattering from other locations within the body, and determine radiation therapy parameters for providing radiation treatment to the intended radiation treatment region based on the radiation dose computed at the plurality of locations within the radiation treatment region. Including radiation dose contributions due to scattering from other locations within the body take into account density discontinuities in the body. | 08-21-2014 |
20140235636 | N-ACYLOXYSULFONAMIDE AND N-HYDROXY-N-ACYLSULFONAMIDE DERIVATIVES - The invention provides certain N-acyloxysulfonamide and N-hydroxy-N-acylsulfonamide derivative compounds, pharmaceutical compositions and kits comprising such compounds, and methods of using such compounds or pharmaceutical compositions. In particular, the invention provides methods of using such compounds or pharmaceutical compositions for treating, preventing, or delaying the onset and/or develop of a disease or condition. In some embodiments, the disease or condition is selected from cardiovascular diseases, ischemia, reperfusion injury, cancerous disease, pulmonary hypertension and conditions responsive to nitroxyl therapy. | 08-21-2014 |
20140235484 | METHODS FOR DETECTION AND DIFFERENTIATION OF ORIGIN OF VIRAL DNA - The invention disclosed herein provides methods for identifying the origin of viral DNA in a sample by detecting the methylation state of at least one CpG site on a target site of the genome of a virus of interest, and determining whether the origin of the viral DNA is from a cell, such as a tumor cell, or a virion, wherein when the methylation state is positive for methylation, the viral DNA is from a cell, and wherein when the methylation state is negative for methylation, the viral DNA is from a virion. Use of these methods for diagnosis or monitoring, and/or treatment of a subject infected with a virus known to cause cancer and related disease are also provided. | 08-21-2014 |
20140232989 | EYE FIXATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - An eye fixation system for attention-attracting fixation of a user's eye includes an audio system configured to play sound based on audio signals to be audible to a user so as to attract the user's attention, and a target display system configured to communicate with the audio system to receive the audio signals and to display an optical target to be viewed by the user. The target display system includes an optical modulator configured to modulate the optical target based on the audio signals. A method of assisting a subject to fix at least one of his eyes in a predetermined alignment includes playing sound that is audible to the subject, displaying an optical target to be viewed by the subject synchronously with the sound such that the target is viewable by the subject while the sound is audible to the subject, and modulating the optical target based on the sound while the sound is being played. | 08-21-2014 |
20140223565 | Apparatus And Method For Identifying Similarity Via Dynamic Decimation Of Token Sequence N-Grams - An apparatus for identifying related code variants or text samples includes processing circuitry configured to execute instructions for receiving query binary code, processing the query binary code to generate one or more query code fingerprints comprising compressed representations of respective functional components of the query binary code, generating token sequence n-grams of the fingerprints, hashing the n-grams, partitioning samples by length to compare selected samples based on length, and identifying similarity via dynamic decimation of token sequence n-grams. | 08-07-2014 |
20140222025 | ENVIRONMENT PROPERTY ESTIMATION AND GRAPHICAL DISPLAY - A surgical robot including an imaging system comprising at least one camera, a processor in communication with the imaging system, a manipulation system in communication with the processor, and a visual display in communication with the processor. The processor is operable to calculate a mechanical property estimate for an area of an environment based on an environment model of tool-environment interaction data, create a composite image comprising a mechanical property map of the mechanical property estimate overlaid on an environment image from the at least one camera, and output the composite image on the visual display. | 08-07-2014 |
20140222012 | SMART SCREW-DRIVER FOR PREVENTING INADVERTENT SCREW STRIPPING IN BONE - A programmable screw driver and method for affixing screws into bone is disclosed. The screw driver includes a torque sensor for measuring torsional input during screw insertion, a rotational motion sensor for measuring the rotation of the screw driver, and a microprocessor. Once a surgeon rotates a screw to be affixed to the bone, the torque sensor measures the torque and sends this information to the microprocessor. Once a predetermined torque level is attained, the microprocessor begins to measure subsequent rotation of the screw driver until a predetermined rotational limit, thereby causing a signal to be sent to alert the surgeon to stop tightening. | 08-07-2014 |
20140221393 | Itraconazole Analogs and Use Thereof - Provided herein are Itraconazole analogs. Also provided herein are methods of inhibition of Hedgehog pathway, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) glycosylation, angiogenesis and treatment of disease with Itraconazole analogs. | 08-07-2014 |
20140221219 | OLIGODENDROGLIOMA DRIVE GENES - Oligodendrogliomas are the second most common malignant brain tumor in adults. These tumors often contain a chromosomal abnormality involving a pericentromeric fusion of chromosomes 1 and 19, resulting in losses of the entire short arm of the former and the long arm of the latter. To identify the molecular genetic basis for this alteration, we performed exomic sequencing of seven anaplastic oligodendrogliomas with chromosome 1p and 19q losses. Among other changes, we found that that CIC (homolog of the | 08-07-2014 |
20140220704 | ARTICLES COMPRISING TEMPLATED CROSSLINKED POLYMER FILMS FOR ELECTRONIC DETECTION OF NITROAROMATIC EXPLOSIVES - The present invention provides devices and articles of manufacture comprising a low-voltage operable, highly sensitive, and selectively responsive polymer for the detection of nitroaromatic compounds, including explosives. Resistive devices were fabricated by simple spin-coating on flexible and transparent substrates as well as silicon substrates, and were stable under ambient temperature and oxygen levels before exposure to the nitroaromatics. After exposure to 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), the devices showed increased conductance, even with pg quantities of TNT, accompanied by a confirming color change from colorless to deep red. The relative conductance increase per unit exposure is the highest yet reported for TNT. Aromatic anion salts, on the other hand, did not induce any electronic responses. Methods of making the articles and devices, and their use are also provided. | 08-07-2014 |
20140220630 | HYBRID SCFA-HYDROXYL-DERIVATIZED MONOSACCHARIDES, METHODS OF SYNTHESIS, AND METHODS OF TREATING DISORDERS - Described herein are fatty acid carbohydrate-hydroxyl-hybrid compounds and derivatives thereof, and methods of treating or preventing disease and disease symptoms using the compounds and compositions thereof. | 08-07-2014 |
20140220530 | Human Surrogate Neck Model - A human surrogate neck model includes a spinal neck region containing cervical vertebrae. A biosimulant intervertebral material is inserted between the cervical vertebrae. The spinal neck region is surrounded by a first silicone material mixed with a polymeric cross-linking inhibitor. One or more elastic tension bands are anchored to a top interface and a bottom interface of the neck model. A second silicone material mixed with a polymeric cross-linking inhibitor is applied to surround the spinal neck region and the first silicone material and to embed the tension bands. One or more of the elastic tension bands and/or a concentration ratio of the first silicone material or second silicone material to the polymeric cross-linking inhibitor can be adjusted for variable test conditions to closely simulate or mimic the static and dynamic characteristics of a human neck in various scenarios. | 08-07-2014 |
20140219952 | METHODS OF TREATMENT USING STEM CELL MOBILIZERS - The present invention relates to the field of stem cells. In one aspect, the present invention provides methods of treating a subject with acute liver injury comprising administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of at least one stem cell mobilizer. In particular embodiments, the subject is treated with plerixafor and G-CSF | 08-07-2014 |
20140213892 | System for Tracking Microsurgical Instrumentation - An embodiment in accordance with the present invention provides a tracking system architecture for tracking surgical tools in a surgical field. The system architecture is integrated into a mask placed directly on the face of the patient. The system can combine multiple imaging and range finding technologies for tracking the eye and the surgical instrumentation. The system can be used to generate a three dimensional scene for use during the surgical procedure. Additionally, the system can incorporate a modular design to account for variable anatomy. The system described is for eye surgery applications. However, the system could also be used for other procedures such as cochlear implant or craniotomy. | 07-31-2014 |
20140207019 | Method and Device for Statistical Tissue Sampling Using Microdevices - The present invention utilizes tetherless microtools to biopsy tissue. The invention provides a device and method for deployment and retrieval of tetherless microtools. The size of the microtools ensures that tissue damage at a site targeted for biopsy is negligible. As such, large numbers of microtools may be deployed ensuring that a true statistical sampling of biologic tissue is performed. | 07-24-2014 |
20140206565 | Esophageal Cancer Markers - The present invention is directed to methods for diagnosing cancer in a subject. Morphologically normal epithelial cells of the esophagus are assayed for marker expression. Characteristic expression of the markers indicates the presence of cancer or the predisposition to cancer. A panel of eleven markers are particularly good at identifying cancer and the predisposition to cancer. | 07-24-2014 |
20140206007 | ELECTROMAGNETICALLY ACTUATED DROPLET MICROFLUIDIC CHIP AND SYSTEM - A microfluidic system includes a microfluidic cartridge and an electromagnetic droplet actuator arranged proximate the microfluidic cartridge. The microfluidic cartridge includes a plurality of droplet wells with topological barrier structures between adjacent wells. The topological barrier structures are configured to allow magnetic particles and material attached to the magnetic particles to pass between adjacent wells while confining droplets within respective wells. The electromagnetic droplet actuator includes a plurality of electromagnetic components arranged to provide an electronically selectable magnetic field pattern to actuate movement of a plurality of magnetic particles when contained within at least one droplet in at least one of the plurality of droplet wells. | 07-24-2014 |
20140199280 | MODULATION OF BIO-ELECTRICAL RHYTHMS VIA A NOVEL ENGINEERING APPROACH - The present invention relates to novel compositions and methods to induce, and/of modulate bio-electrical rhythms (e.g. in cardiac, neuronal and pancreatic cells) by fine-tuning the activity of HCN-encoded pacemaker channels via a novel protein- and genetic-engineering approach to augment or attenuate the associated physiological responses (e.g. heart beat, neuronal firing, insulin secretion, etc) for achieving various therapeutic purposes (e.g. sick sinus syndrome, epilepsy, neuropathic pain, diabetes, etc). | 07-17-2014 |
20140194416 | N-HYDROXYLSULFONAMIDE DERIVATIVES AS NEW PHYSIOLOGICALLY USEFUL NITROXYL DONORS - The invention relates to N-hydroxylsulfonamide derivatives that donate nitroxyl (HNO) under physiological conditions and are useful in treating and/or preventing the onset and/or development of diseases or conditions that are responsive to nitroxyl therapy, including heart failure and ischemia/reperfusion injury. Novel N-hydroxylsulfonamide derivatives release NHO at a controlled rate under physiological conditions, and the rate of HNO release is modulated by varying the nature and location of functional groups on the N-hydroxylsulfonamide derivatives. | 07-10-2014 |
20140193846 | NOVEL APOC-I ISOFORMS AND THEIR USE AS BIOMARKERS AND RISK FACTORS OF ATHEROSCLEROTIC DISEASE - Novel isoforms of apolipoprotein C-I (apoC-I), namely apolipoprotein C-I | 07-10-2014 |
20140193832 | DETECTION OF PROSTATE CANCER USING PSA GLYCOSYLATION PATTERNS - The present invention features novel methods for determining if a subject has prostate cancer. The present invention is based on the development of lectin immunosorbant assays which analyze α2,6-linked sialylation of total serum PSA by | 07-10-2014 |
20140191524 | RECONFIGURABLE LITHOGRAPHIC STRUCTURES - A lithographically structured device has an actuation layer and a control layer operatively connected to the actuation layer. The actuation layer includes a stress layer and a neutral layer that is constructed of materials and with a structure such that it stores torsional energy upon being constructed. The control layer is constructed to maintain the actuation layer substantially in a first configuration in a local environmental condition and is responsive to a change in the local environmental condition such that it permits a release of stored torsional energy to cause a change in a structural configuration of the lithographically structured device to a second configuration, the control layer thereby providing a trigger mechanism. The lithographically structured device has a maximum dimension that is less than about 10 mm when it is in the second configuration. | 07-10-2014 |
20140191218 | X-RAY-SENSITIVE DEVICES AND SYSTEMS USING ORGANIC PN JUNCTION PHOTODIODES - An x-ray detector includes a first electrode, a second electrode spaced apart from the first electrode, an organic p-type semiconducting layer disposed between the first and second electrodes, and an organic n-type semiconducting layer disposed between the first and second electrodes and in contact with the organic p-type semiconducting layer to form a pn-junction layer therebetween. At least one of the organic p-type semiconducting layer or the organic n-type semiconducting layer includes an x-ray absorbing material blended therein. | 07-10-2014 |
20140188115 | MINIMALLY-INVASIVE DEVICE, KIT, AND METHOD FOR HARVESTING BONE GRAFT - A minimally-invasive bone graft harvesting device, kit, and method are provided. The device includes a hollow cutting element and an extraction element. The hollow cutting element may define a longitudinal axis and includes a distal end, a proximal end adapted to be coupled to a powered or manual-operated rotary tool, and an inner lumen extending longitudinally between the distal and proximal ends. The hollow cutting element may also include one or more blades protruding from an outer surface of the cutting element. Each blade may be arranged adjacent to an opening extending between the outer surface and the inner lumen to allow cancellous bone material cut by each blade during use to pass through the opening into the inner lumen. The extraction element may be removably received within the inner lumen of the hollow cutting element to allow withdrawal of the bone material in the inner lumen. | 07-03-2014 |
20140187928 | Method for Estimating Flow Rates, Pressure Gradients, Coronary Flow Reserve, and Fractional Flow Reserve from Patient Specific Computed Tomography Angiogram-Based Contrast Distribution Data - An embodiment in accordance with the present invention provides a method for non-invasively determining the functional severity of coronary artery stenosis. The method includes gathering patient-specific data related to concentration of a contrast agent within a coronary artery of a patient using a coronary computed tomography angiography scan (CCTA). The patient-specific data is used to calculate a patient-specific transluminal attenuation gradient for the coronary artery of the patient. The patient specific transluminal attenuation gradient is used to determine an estimate of a coronary flow velocity, pressure gradient, loss coefficient, coronary flow reserve, and/or fractional flow reserve for the patient. Coronary flow velocity, pressure gradient, loss coefficient, coronary flow reserve, and fractional flow reserve can then be used to estimate the functional severity of coronary artery stenosis. | 07-03-2014 |
20140187913 | APPARATUS FOR INSERTION OF A MEDICAL DEVICE DURING A MEDICAL IMAGING PROCESS - The end-effector includes a sheath and a medical device or needle carrier that is disposed within the interior compartment of the sheath. An aperture is located in a portion of the sheath proximal a distal end of the sheath that is inserted into a natural or artificial cavity. This device is guided by a real-time imager. | 07-03-2014 |
20140187764 | GENETIC ALTERATIONS IN ISOCITRATE DEHYDROGENASE AND OTHER GENES IN MALIGNANT GLIOMA - We found mutations of the R132 residue of isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) in the majority of grade II and III astrocytomas and oligodendrogliomas as well as in glioblastomas that develop from these lower grade lesions. Those tumors without mutations in IDH1 often had mutations at the analogous R172 residue of the closely related IDH2 gene. These findings have important implications for the pathogenesis and diagnosis of malignant gliomas. | 07-03-2014 |
20140187540 | COMPOUNDS AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF FOR TREATING NEURODEGENERATIVE DISORDERS - Compounds, compositions, kits and methods for treating conditions related to neurodegeneration or ocular disease, are disclosed. | 07-03-2014 |
20140186852 | BIOMARKERS FOR MYOCARDIAL ISCHEMIA - This invention relates, e.g., to a method for determining if a subject has myocardial ischemia, comprising (a) providing a blood sample obtained from a subject suspected of having myocardial ischemia; (b) determining in the sample the amount of one or more of the following proteins: (i) Lumican and/or (ii) Extracellular matrix protein 1 and/or (iii) Carboxypeptidase N; and (c) comparing the amount(s) of the protein(s) to a baseline value that is indicative of the amount of the protein in a subject that does not have myocardial ischemia, wherein a statistically significantly increased amount of the protein(s) compared to the baseline value is indicative of myocardial ischemia. Other proteins indicative of myocardial ischemia are also described, as are methods for treating a subject based on a diagnostic procedure of the invention, and kits for carrying out a method of the invention. | 07-03-2014 |