Latest technologies from University of Rochester

Color Calibration/Magnification Test Eye for Ophthalmic Imaging

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 28 May 2010 08:19:36 GMT

Applications: This test eye emulates a human eye but contains a color calibration target and magnification scale. The color target is used to correct for inaccurate color representation present in ophthalmic digital fundus images. The magnification scale is used to determine the exact size or magnification of the image. Advantages: The system addresses inconsistent color produced in opthalmic imaging systems. The color values on the test target were developed by sampling tones present in a large number of eyes and then resproducing them in a small test target.

School-Based Pediatric Asthma Care Technology (SB-PACT)

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 27 May 2010 11:16:25 GMT

Applications: Poor compliance with prescribed preventive anti-inflammatory medication complicates asthma condition in children, especially in urban schools. This invention helps school nurses and administrators implement directly observed therapy in schools with central communication through a web-based system. Advantages: The SB-PACT system allows direct communication between the school nurses, administrators, parents, the primary care providers and the central asthma coordinator to ensure adequate treatment, including dose adjustments. The system facilitates screening and m...

Pediatric Asthma Care Technology (PACT)

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 27 May 2010 11:16:23 GMT

Applications: Misclassification of asthma severity in children often leads to inadequate prescriptions for preventive medications. Poor compliance with prescribed medication routine further complicates their asthma condition. This invention helps clinicians systematically screen for asthma symptoms with a web-based electronic prompting system. Advantages: The PACT system prompts the caregiver and the provider with individualized recommendations based on asthma severity and levels of control. The system would facilitate screening for asthma with efficiency and accuracy, substa...

Minimally Invasive, Rapid Implant & Explant Cannula Adapter

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 27 May 2010 11:16:21 GMT

Applications: During cardiac surgery, cannulae connected to the cardio-pulmonary bypass (CPB) or mechanical circulatory support (MCS) systems have to be implanted in the left and right ventricles after creating holes in the heart muscle. After the procedure, the cannulae have to be removed and the holes closed up. The whole process is tedious, invasive, takes precious time and is thus also risky. Advantages: This invention is a unique cannulae kit to support CPB or MCS systems during cardiac surgery. It is designed for rapid and minimally invasive im...

Multi-Med Nebulizer

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 27 May 2010 11:16:14 GMT

Applications: This invention drastically reduces the time consuming and exhaustive process of preparing and dispensing multiple medications that must be delivered via nebulizer. Two medications can be prepared simultaneously and dispensed conveniently, saving time and effort. Advantages: Some people require treatments with multiple medications that must be dispensed via a nebulizer. However, many of these medications cannot be mixed with other medications before dispensing. The process of preparing, administering and cleaning the delivery equipment has to be repeated for each ...

Fabrication of an Optical Assembly for Concentrated Solar Photovoltaics from Components Integrated via a Flexible Planar Substrate

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 04 May 2010 13:47:15 GMT

Brief description: The invention is the process for manufacturing a concentrating photovoltaic device. The photovoltaic cells, dichroic(wavelength beamsplitter), circuitry (wires diodes), and reflective elements are pre assembled or processed on a flexible material, like a roll of polymer, and then cut out/folded to create the concentration optics for the photovoltaic solar cell module. Applications: The manufacturing process could apply to solar energy collection modules and also to lighting applications in which the solar cells are replaced by LEDs and the opt...

Novel Treatment for Accelerated Bone Fracture Healing and Osteoporosis by Inhibition of the EP-1 Receptor

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 04 May 2010 13:47:14 GMT

Brief Description: This invention identifies EP-1 receptor, one of the four receptors of Prostaglandin E2, as a major player in osteoblastogenesis. Inhibiting the EP-1 receptor shortens the duration of bone fracture healing by accelerating fracture callus formation, mineralization, and bone remodeling by elevating osteoblast and osteoclast generation. Applications: This invention identifies EP-1 receptor, one of the four receptors of Prostaglandin E2, as a major player in osteoblastogenesis. Inhibiting the EP-1 receptor shortens ...

Dual-Detection of phase for full range Doppler OCT

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 04 May 2010 13:47:13 GMT

Detailed description: A dual detection technique for Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) preserves the phase information in the acquired spectra by the retrieval of quadrature components of the complex interferometric signal. A rotatable non-polarizing beam splitter cube provides the required p/2 phase shifted interference signal. Applications: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an imaging modality for in vivo, noninvasive, high-resolution cross-sectional images of biological tissues. OCT can be used for imaging three dimensional structures, such as the reti...

microEZMix -- A Prefilled Mix and Inject Syringe System

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 04 May 2010 13:47:08 GMT

Applications: Powdered medication that must be reconstituted with a diluent before it can be injected requires a number of components and several cumbersome steps. The process becomes especially taxing for those who need to self-inject several times daily, often while away from the privacy of home. Non-compliance to a scheduled medication therapy due to the difficulty could result in serious negative affects on the patient’s health. Advantages: This technology utilizes standard syringe components in a novel manner for a simple, ready to use, pre-filled syrin...

Antislip Device for Displacement of Vital Structures for Protection During RF Ablation Treatment

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 04 May 2010 13:47:07 GMT

Applications: During Radio-Frequency Ablation (RFA) treatment for tumors (lung, kidney and liver), protection of adjacent organs from exposure to the high heat (or cold) generated in the tumor is essential . Non-specialized angioplasty or esophageal dilatation balloons are used to displace vital structures. These balloons slip away from their intended position. Several balloons are necessary for adequate coverage. This technology overcomes the difficulty with a simple device.This invention is a simple, inexpensive and compact device that displaces vital structures away from the ...

Reduction in Vascular Disease and Related Vascular Events with Implanted Electrodes and Devices

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 04 May 2010 13:47:06 GMT

Applications: This invention has application in therapy to reduce vascular events, including coronary ischemic events, using a small implanted electrode that can favorably affect vascular endothelium. Advantages: Preliminary data indicates a reduction in coronary events in patients with an implanted electrode in the right ventricle versus those without.

High efficiency right angle light guide for solar concentration

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 04 May 2010 13:47:05 GMT

Brief description: The wave guide is a thin transparent plate which transmits light incident on its face to one edge, at high efficiency with the use of multiple light deflecting dimples consisting of injection and bypass prisms. Applications: For a solar concentrator for use in photovoltaic power generation to direct sunlight incident on its face to photovoltaic cells on one edge. Alternatively, the device can be used for collecting light from an edge and emitting it from the face. Advantages: The light pipe with these multiple light deflecting dim...

IntraTtissue Refractive Index Shaping (IRIS) by Two Photon Absorption

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 04 May 2010 13:47:00 GMT

Brief Description: This invention is a process for vision correction by modifying the index of refraction of ocular tissue in the human eye, by a high-repetition, low-pulse energy femto-second laser with two photon absorption enhanced by a fluorophore. Applications: This technology has a range of uses in ophthalmology. 1. The simplest application is in the writing of reference marks in the corneal stroma to mark the location for optimal blade depth for cutting a flap in the cornea prior to excimer laser ablation in LASIK refractive surgery. 2. This treatment to change t...

Modifying the Refractive Index of an Intra Optical Lens

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 04 May 2010 13:46:59 GMT

Brief description: Selective changes to the refractive index of an intra-ocular lens, after being placed in a human eye, are achieved with tightly focused short pulses of high intensity laser by multi-photon absorption. Applications: In opththalmology, the method is used to modify the refractive power of an intra-ocular lens following insertion into a human eye. Advantages: With this method, errors due to lens placement and wound healing from surgery can be corrected. This modifcation of the refractive power of the artificial lens ...

Novel Receptors for Recombinant Human Activated Protein C (rhAPC) and Its Engineered Analogs with Enhanced Anti-Inflammatory Property

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 04 May 2010 13:46:45 GMT

Applications: This invention offers a new method to prevent and treat sepsis. Sepsis, also known as systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), is a serious medical condition. It is caused by sustained or dysregulated integrin activation, which result in abnormal neutrophil trafficking, and subsequently, widespread inflammation, blood clotting, organ failure and tissue damage. It occurs in 1–2% of all hospitalizations and accounts for as much as 25% of intensive-care unit (ICU) bed utilization. It is a major cause of death in intensive-care units worldwide, with mortality rates tha...

All-in-One Mix and Inject Prefillable Syringe System

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 04 May 2010 13:46:45 GMT

Applications: Powdered medication that must be reconstituted with a diluent before it can be injected requires a number of components and several cumbersome steps. The process becomes especially taxing for those who need to self-inject several times daily, often while away from the privacy of home. Non-compliance to a scheduled medication therapy due to the difficulty could result in serious negative affects on the patient’s health. Advantages: This technology, designed by a nurse, combines all the necessary components into one simple, ready to use, pre-filled syringe syste...

Strong Fast Stain as Counter Stain for Histochemical Stains that Require Red Nuclei

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 14:15:41 GMT

Applications: This Strong Fast Stain method was developed by Charles Churukian, who has extensive experience in laboratory pathology. The Strong Fast Stain only takes a few seconds and shows superior tissue architecture and cellular detail compared with the nuclear fast red counterstain.

Convenient Disinfection of Stethoscope Head

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 14:15:39 GMT

Applications: The potential for nosocomial infection due to the use of stethoscopes from patient to patient has been widely recognized. Studies have shown that stethoscopes could harbor Staphylococcus aureus Recommended disinfection procedure is before and after each use. Disinfection, even with commonly available alcohol wipes, is generally not followed. An easier to use method is needed especially for hospitals and clinics to comply with the recommended disinfection procedure. Advantages: This invention is a device that provides a simpler, easier to use and cost effective so...

Ergonomic Vaginal Speculum

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 14:15:39 GMT

Applications: The standard bi-leaf duck-billed shaped vaginal speculum opens and closes in an up-and-down motion, pushing and stretching the vaginal musculature unevenly and causing patient discomfort. Many patients do not consent to speculum exams due to this discomfort. This invention is of a speculum that conforms to the barrel-shaped cavity, thereby increasing comfort and potential compliance with consistent exams. Advantages: A speculum conforming to the natural shape of the cavity would also allow greater visibility of the area for the physician, in addition to reducing d...

Smart Medical Order Entry and Reporting System

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 14:15:16 GMT

Calvin Chang, Applications: The present invention is directed to an automatic learning and tracking system. It is a web-base radiology order entry and reporting system designed to prevent inappropriately ordered examinations which are estimated to constitute 30% of all radiologic studies. This is in the form of a software package providing online prompts based on American College of Radiology (ACR) criteria and clinically established guidelines. By ensuring the appropriate order for indicated examinations it also prevents delayed or inaccurate patient diagnoses as well as tr...

A Novel Recombinant Protein Promotes Axonal Growth and Functional Recovery After Traumatic CNS Injury

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 06:53:00 GMT

Applications: A wide range of approaches have now been applied following CNS injury to promote regenerative growth of both sensory and motor axons, with a particular focus on the transplantation of a variety of cell types, often in combination with other therapies. Such combinations have resulted in varying degrees of successful axon regeneration. This invention identifies a possible agent with high therapeutic potential, possibly providing some of the regenerative capacity of live cell transplants, while avoiding a number of the cell-based therapeutic obstacles. Advantages: The avail...

Isolation, Maintenance, and Expansion of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells by Proprietary Signaling Modulation

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 11:06:34 GMT

Applications: This invention offers an advanced technology to isolate, maintain and expand mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). The proprietary cell surface receptor covered by this invention facilitates a more responsive MSC isolation from bone marrow and adipose tissues in conjunction with other existing MSC markers (CD105, CD66 and Stro-1). Also covered by this invention is culturing isolated MSCs on plates coated with a proprietary recombinant protein, which will activate the proprietary signaling and induce specific regulators for the “stemness” and proliferation of MSCs. As ...

A Functional Monoclonal Antibody Against DC-STAMP

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 11:06:28 GMT

Brief Description: Bone is a very dynamic organ as evidenced by the process of bone remodeling which relies on a delicate balance between bone formation and bone resorption and is orchestrated by osteoblasts (OB) and osteoclasts (OC). The coordinated interplay of OB and OC continuously remodels bone through highly regulated molecular and cellular events such that the entire human skeleton is replaced over the course of each decade of life. Disruption of the homeostatic balance of bone removal and replacement can manifest as pathologic bone loss observed in osteoporosis, periodontal dise...

Method to Prevent HIV Infection by Maintaining APOBEC3G (A3g) in Its More Active “Low Molecular Mass” (LMM) Form

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 11:06:09 GMT

Applications: The more active LMM form of APOBEC3G (A3g) prevents HIV from replicating within the host. Thus maintaining LMM-A3G and preventing the inactive HMM-A3G formation or preventing its degradation by the viral protein, Vif, would limit the ability of HIV to infect its host. Advantages: This technology provides a novel approach to increase the activity of A3G by creating molecules that facilitate the expression of the active form, LMM, or inhibiting the production of the inactive form, HMM. These molecules would target certain protein-protein or protein-RNA interactions th...

Prognostic Indicator of HIV/AIDS: CEM15 mRNA Levels

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 11:05:58 GMT

Applications: Present invention provides a method of measuring a novel prognostic marker for AIDS progression, and predicting whether a viral infected patient will be a nonprogressor. This invention also provides a method of predicting the level of CD4 cells in a patient, as well as a method of optimizing antiviral therapy in a viral infected patient. Advantages: A small subset of the AIDS patients categorized as long term nonprogressors (LTNPs) have a much slower disease progression rate. Several mechanisms have been suggested for LTNPs. However, no common factor has...

Treatment Strategies for Hyper IgM Syndrome and B-cell Lymphoma

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 11:05:51 GMT

Applications: Along with 6-1202, the present invention is directed to provide a chimeric protein capable of transduction into B cells for purposes of treating Class Switch Recombination and Somatic Hypermutation, both involved in antibody production and diversity, as well as other conditions such as B cell lymphoma. The present invention offers a chimeric protein (TAT-AID) which can be injected into animals or used to treat isolated B lymphocytes. The protein Activation Induced Deaminase (AID) can induce class switch recombination (CSR) and somatic hypermutation (SHM) that are essential...

Automated Device for Asthma Monitoring (ADAM)

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 12:37:22 GMT

Applications: Automated Device for Asthma Monitoring (ADAM) is a device system that facilitates non-intrusive, continuous, valid and reliable monitoring of asthma symptoms. Asthma afflicts nearly 24 million in the US with 3,613 deaths /100k. There are 300 million asthmatics, and growing, worldwide. Healthcare cost for asthma is about $11.5 billion in the U.S. Advantages: Not being dependant on patient technique or compliance overcomes major difficulties faced when using other monitoring devices. Continuous automatic symptom monitoring, in real-life environments, with selecti...

Novel Treatment System for Intracranial Aneurysms and Subsequent Vasospasm.

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 12:37:14 GMT

Application: Vasospasm occurs in up to 70% of patients with Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) 4-14 days after the hemorrhage. This can lead to impaired cerebral auto-regulation and may progress to cerebral ischemia and infarction, requiring close monitoring and treatment for up to three weeks following the aneurysm treatment. SAH is a subset of stroke and occurs in 9 per 100k population with an annual cost in US of $1.75 billion. Approx. 15-20% of patients die before reaching the hospital and 25% die within 24hours with or without medical attention. Advantages: This unique device...

Ultra-Small Metal Nanoparticles for Catalyst, Electrocatalyst and Other Applications

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 12:37:01 GMT

Brief Description: This is a method for synthesizing ultra-small (1 to 4 nm) nanoparticles and atomic clusters of platinum, other noble metals and alloys by the selective electrochemical removal of one metal from metal alloy nanoparticles. Applications: These catalysts are for use in general organic synthesis applications, for selective C-H bond activation, hydrogenation and the photocatalytic generation of hydrogen. Advantages: This process for synthesizing metal catalysts of ultra-small size and of controlled surface composition has the following advantages: 1. ...

Unipolar Barriers for Reduction of Surface Leakage Current in Semiconductor Devices

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 12:36:46 GMT

Brief Description: A unipolar barrier layer is used to block unwanted surface current, but pass current, in a semiconductor device. Applications: The technique is for use in infrared detectors and other semiconductor devices, such as bipolar transistors, diode lasers and solar cells. Advantages: The unipolar barrier eliminates the surface currents which cause device noise and is built into the semiconductor structure as part of the semiconductor doping process. It is an improvement over the conventional process, known as “surface passivation”, in which chemical tr...

Devices and Techniques for the Repair of Partially or Completely Lacerated Nerves

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 12:36:43 GMT

Brief Description: Repair of peripheral nerves especially when the nerve has retracted poses a special challenge. Current techniques of nerve grafting, transposing or re-routing the nerve or using a collagen or silastic tube to bridge the defect are risky and involve a fair amount of manipulation of the nerve. The operative time needed to achieve a tension-free repair can put the patient at risks for perioperative complications. This novel approach allows for a more secure repair with less manipulation and reduced surgical time. Applications: The devices and techniques of this...

Spatial Coherence Interferometry

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 12:36:24 GMT

Brief Description: Spatial coherence interferometry (SCI) uses a monochromatic, but spatially incoherent, light source to provide “optical sectioning” characterization of the optical elements in a complex system, such as the human eye. Applications: SCI can be used in ophthalmology for the measurement of the axial length of the eye, which is necessary in the prescription of the IOL installed in cataract surgery, and more detailed optical characterization of the crystalline lens for accommodating IOLs. It may also be used in optical lens inspection applications....

Magnetorheological Finishing Fluid with ZirconiaCcoated Carbonyl Iron for Optics Fabrication

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 11:31:46 GMT

Brief Description: An improved fluid for magnetorheological finishing (MRF) of optical parts is made from carbonyl iron coated with zirconia. Applications: This material is as a long-life polishing agent for use in MRF finishing of optics components. It is also expected to be of use in fluid jet polishing equipment for optical lens fabrication. Advantages: The zirconia-coated carbonyl provides the finishing fluid the following advantages: (1) excellent corrosion resistance, (2) tailored abrasiveness by controlling the texture of the zirconia coating, (3) compatibility ...

Tissue Factor (TF) Assay to Distinguish Benign and Malignant Prostate Disease and Identify Advanced Prostate Cancer

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 11:25:24 GMT

Alternative Title: Tissue Factor (TF) as a marker and TF assay to identify and monitor advanced prostate cancer Applications: Increased serum levels of TF have been implicated in prostate cancer, but this prognostic marker has been mostly studied in a qualitative fashion; elevated levels versus normal controls. This assay is designed to compete or compliment PSA for diagnosing prostate cancer and as both a monitor for the severity of the disease and therapeutic drug responses. An initial 400 patient study has been completed as confirmed the utility of this assay. Advantag...

Polyclonal anti-GPR56 Antibody Recognizes GPR56 on Formalin-Fixed Paraffin -Embedded Human Tissue Sections

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:06:14 GMT

Application A novel polyclonal anti-GPR56 antibody. Advantage GPR56 is a potential diagnostic/prognostic marker for multiple human diseases. Its expression pattern and level are regularly determined on archived human specimens. However formalin fixation and paraffin embedding often destroy antigens on tissues, preventing most antibodies from recognizing the corresponding antigens on tissue sections. We have developed this new antibody against GPR56 and showed effective staining on paraffin-embedded sections. This novel antibody will greatly facilitate the clinical research aroun...

Novel Transcutaneous Energy Transfer (TET) Device

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:06:09 GMT

Applications: A ventricular assist device (VAD) is an auxiliary blood circulation pump. It is implanted to assist the left, right or both ventricles to enhance circulation. The power source is worn externally by the patient with a cable going through the skin. The opening in the skin becomes a portal for serious infection which may also travel to the heart. Numerous attempts have been made over the years to power VADs transcutaneously. Almost all such attempts have been of some variation of electromagnetic energy transfer from a sending coil outside the body to a receiving coil inside...

The TR4 Ligand - New opportunities for the treatment of metabolic syndrome, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases and, possible drug screening to eliminate the side effects of PPARs

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:06:02 GMT

Applications: This invention describes results a novel signaling pathway that indicates the Testicular orphan nuclear receptor 4 (TR4) transactivation can be activated via activators, such as polyunsaturated fatty acids metabolites and thiazolidinediones (rosiglitazone). These results provide a platform to screen composition(s) for modulating PPARs (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors - the target of thiazolidinediones) and TR4 as well as metabolic syndrome, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. This is the first description of the TR4 ligand, the same ligand for PPARs. ...

Novel Treatment of Lung Disease with RNases

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:05:56 GMT

Applications: Eosinophil-associated RNases (EARs) constitute a family of eosinophil RNases, whose secreted products possess anti-viral, anti-microbial, and antihelminthic enzymatic activity towards single-stranded RNAs. This implies that delivery of EARs to people at risk for lung disease can provide protection against viral infection. Intriguingly, EAR2 is a member of a larger family of highly homologous proteins with selective anti-pathogenic properties. For instance EAR2 (called eosinophil derived neurotoxin in humans) has strong anti-viral properties while EAR3 (called eosinophil c...

Clothing Iron Safety Device

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 08:09:50 GMT

Applications: Contact burns from clothing irons are a common injury seen in children. These injuries occur when an unattended iron is within reach of toddlers in its upright position. This simple device is intended to provide protection against burns and fire while an unattended cooling iron is set in its down position. It has been shown that the surface of an iron takes 90 minutes to cool below the epidermal injury threshold of 49 degree centigrade. Advantages: This convenient, low cost and easy to use device offers a solution to protect toddler’s hands from contact with coo...

Devices and Method for Improved Diagnosis of GERD Related Respiratory Disease

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 09:54:40 GMT

Applications: Proof of the relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and respiratory symptoms remains a challenge. Current methods for the diagnosis of GERD have poor sensitivity and specificity. This invention greatly simplifies the diagnosis by automatically determining any association between GERD and respiratory disease. Advantages: This technology is a unique system that would automatically acquire data in situ and transmit it by wire or wirelessly to an external data logger and monitor. The system would eliminate the need for multiple tests and would min...

Use of Biliverdin Reductace (BVR) and BVR Peptide Fragments to Treat Coronary Disorders

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 08:19:04 GMT

Brief Description: Biliverdin reductase (BVR), by virtue of its protein kinase activity and ability to stimulate the activity of signaling molecules, notably protein kinases, exerts effects on numerous pathways in the cell. The beta-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol has been found to stimulate the expression of BVR in primary cultures of cardiomyocytes, resulting in an increase in the abundances of BVR mRNA and BVR protein. Continuous infusion of isoproterenol into rats results in increased expression of BVR and heme oxidase-2 (HO-2) in the heart. In cardiomyocytes, the increase in ...

Enhancing Immune Memory by Blocking Intrahepatic T Cell Deletion via TLR-4 Inhibition

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 11:41:33 GMT

Applications: This invention is aimed at increasing the effectiveness of a vaccine. Vaccination results in the proliferation of antigen specific CD8+ (“killer”) T-cells. Although a number of these CD8+ cells will eventually die, there is an overall net population increase. The increase in an antigen specific T-cell population is what constitutes immunological memory-which is the capacity of the immune system to make a more effective immune response the second time it encounters an antigen. One way to increase immunological memory is to enhance CD8+ cell survival....

Method for Reducing the Atherogenic Risk Factor (LDL) through the Therapeutic Delivery of a Recombinant Protein that Allows the Liver to Change the Type of Protein It Secretes into the Blood

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 06:51:58 GMT

Applications: This technology is a method for reducing the atherogenic risk factor, low density lipoprotein (LDL), through the therapeutic delivery of a recombinant protein that reduces the production of the “bad” form of cholesterol and thereby providing a treatment for diseases associated with elevated blood LDL levels. Advantages: The therapy would target a broader patient base than drugs currently on the market because it would not interfere with metabolic processes, reduce the bio-availability of lipids, or raise serum triglyceride levels. Advancements in prote...

The First Steroid Nuclear Receptor (TR4) Linked to Aging

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:03:10 GMT

Applications: In this invention, TR4 is the first steroid nuclear receptor identified to have a biological function closely linked to aging. The TR4 orphan receptor is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily. Functioning as transcription factors, nuclear receptors can control the expression of target genes and thereby direct developmental, physiological, and behavioral responses from the cellular level to that of the whole organism. TR4 knock-out mice demonstrate high rates of early postnatal mortality, as well as significant growth retardation, reproductive def...

Monoclonal Antibodies to Dengue Fever NS1

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:03:04 GMT

Applications: This invention presents serious of monoclonal mouse IgG and IgM antibodies against yellow fever virus and dengue fever, and the antibody-producing hybridoma cell lines. These antibodies have multiple applications in production of vaccine against yellow fever. Advantages: These antibodies have been proved to be very helpful in testing, quality control, and manufacturing vaccines against yellow fever and dengue fever. Antibodies available are for NS1 and E protein of dengue and yellow fever virus.

Monoclonal Antibodies to Dengue Fever E Protein

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:03:03 GMT

Monoclonal Antibodies to Yellow Fever NS1

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:03:02 GMT

Carbazole-Based Host Polymer for Electro-Phosphorescent OLEDs

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:03:00 GMT

Brief Description: This describes a carbozole-based host polymer for electro-phosphorescent OLED devices with balanced electron and hole transport, and which is solution-processible. Applications: This is a new class of OLED (organic light emitting diode) host materials for use in flat panel displays for computer monitors and TV and for solid state lighting and back-lighting for liquid crystal displays. Advantages: The materials have the following advantages: 1. Compared to conventional OLED molecular materials, which must be vacuum-deposited into thin films, these materials...

Power Supply Generation and Distribution in Three-Dimensional ICs

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:58 GMT

Brief Description: This design method describes a distributed buck converter rectifier for CMOS three dimensional (3D) integrated circuits, with a different voltage available on each plane of the IC. Applications: For use in future CMOS 3D integrated circuits. These circuits are expected to have their multiple planes dedicated to a specific function. The RF, analog, communications and digital circuits are typically located on different planes, requiring different power supply voltages. Advantages: This methodology will enable optimal 3D integrated circuits by...

Integrated Silicon PIN Photodiodes in CMOS

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:56 GMT

Brief Description: This is a new PIN photodiode using a deep N-well for near IR 850nm which can be fabricated with standard 0.18 micron CMOS technology on the same chip with receiver digital electronics. Applications: This photodiode can be used in CMOS optoelectronic integrated circuits (OEIC), for inter-chip and intra-chip interconnects and for short distance optical links such as Fiber Channel and Gigabit Ethernet. Advantages: The deep n-well of the new photodiode structure increases the drift speed of electrons at the epi-layer / substrate interface, thereby improving the bandw...

Aberration Control by UVA Corneal Crosslinking Combined With Beam Shaping Techniques

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:54 GMT

Applications: This technology applies to an advanced refractive procedure for customized laser vision correction and presbyopic correction. Advantages: This method has the ability to accurately control the ocular aberration to correct the vision problem. It is less invasive and more accurate than coventional laser vision correction techniques. It can also be potentially used to enhance optical quality of the eye after intraocular lens implantation in cataract surgery.

A System to Measure Behavioral Activity of Rodents in Their Home-Cage

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:51 GMT

Brief Description: This invention relates to a simple and economical activity monitoring system for rodents while in their home-cage. The unique system construction helps dampen vibrations from the rack or table the unit sits on while accentuating movements of the subjects within the home cage. Rodent activity is picked up by a sensor and relayed to a PC for analysis and archiving using customized software. Applications: The system would replace current methods for measuring activity (e.g., line crossings) and play (e.g., video scoring) thereby increasing throughput, allowing f...

A/D Converters Based on Turbo-Coding Principles

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:46 GMT

Brief Description: This is a method for analog to digital conversion based on Turbo-coding principles from the field of information theory. Applications: This analog to digital converter (ADC) is for use in integrated system-on-a-chip (SOC) circuits requiring both high resolution and high data rate bandwidth. Advantages: The first design studies and simulations indicate that this technique will achieve the theoretical maximum Shannon channel capacity conversion rate for a given quantizer resolution effective number of bits. The technology is a novel ADC concept base...

Software for Adaptive Optics: TsunamiSLO

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:45 GMT

Brief Description: The software provides user-friendly control of devices needed for adaptive optics: wavefront sensor (Shack-Hartmann or other) with a digital camera, wavefront corrector (such as Boston Micromachines deformable mirror, or ImagineEyes deformable mirror), laser controller (such as Thorlabs ITC-502 or other) and power meters (such as Newport 1930 or other). Applications: For the control of wavefront sensors and aberration correction devices used in adaptive optics in scanning laser ophthalmoscopes, optical coherence tomography and other research applications of adapti...

Cholesteric Glassy Liquid Crystals for Selective Wavelength Reflection and Circular Polarization

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:43 GMT

Brief Description: This describes a class of glassy liquid crystal (GLC) materials for optical devices with outstanding mechanical properties for device fabrication and durability. Applications: Optical quality films prepared from these materials can be used for circular polarizers, circular polarized fluorescence films, optical notch filters and reflectors, filters for laser protection, latching electro-optical devices for optical communication, and low threshold, efficient circularly polarized lasers. Advantages: The uniqueness of this material class is reflected in the new term ...

High Dynamic Range Cross-Correlator for Optical Pulse Measurement

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:41 GMT

Brief Description: This single-shot third-order cross-correlator uses a sequence of short sampling pulses from an optical pulse replicator at the second harmonic to characterize an optical pulse under test. Applications: This is a method for measuring the temporal intensity of an optical pulse, in either repetitive or non-repetitive signals. It can be used in laser diagnostics, optical sampling oscilloscope, optical radar and transient signal detection. Advantages: The technique has the capability of measuring a single shot pulse with high dynamic range. It can provide a m...

Wavefront Reconstruction Algorithm for Shack-Hartmann Sensors

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:40 GMT

Brief Description: This is a method for computing wavefront coefficients from Shack-Hartmann sensor measurements over the entire spatial frequency range the sensor can measure. Applications: This method is used to determine the optical wavefront in the measurement of laser beam profiles and in high resolution imaging using adaptive optics in astronomy and bio-medical applications. Advantages: Traditional reconstruction algorithms do not provide accurate reconstruction at the high spatial frequency range. This method provides a unity frequency response even at the highest spat...

X-Ray and Optical Metrology Using Phase Retrieval

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:39 GMT

Brief Description: This invention describes a phase-shifting device and phase retrieval algorithms for improved beam diagnostics and optical metrology in the optical and x-ray regimes. Applications: Image reconstruction by phase retrieval, also referred to as coherent diffraction imaging (CDI), is a lens-less technique in which conventional image forming optics (lenses, mirrors, etc.) are replaced by computational image formation. The concept can be applied to both imaging and beam profiling in the optical, UV and X-ray domains. In the X-ray regime, coherent diffraction imag...

High Capacity Embedding in Printed Images by Halftone Orientation Modulation

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:38 GMT

Brief Description: The technology is a technique for hiding data inside a printed image by modulating the orientation of elliptically shaped halftone dots. Applications: This is a method for embedding data in a printed image which can be extracted by a digital scanner for security or document work flow purposes, for passports and other legal papers. The data could be security code or encrypted message, meta-data such as a URL, a voice file for the visually impaired or a contone image file for better reproduction. A signed or encrypted thumbnail of the image itself may be ...

Composite Ceramic Membrane for Fuel Cells

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:37 GMT

Brief Description: This fuel cell technology is a thin composite membrane of c-axis aligned hydroxyapatite single crystals to optimize proton transport, grown on a palladium alloy membrane base. Applications: This membrane is intended to enable a new class of fuel cells to operate in the temperature range of 200-600oC. It may also be useful in gas sensors and electro-catalytic devices. Advantages: The temperature range of 200-600oC would be low enough for construction of fuel cells using low cost materials, but be high enough to enable the use of non-precious metal catalysts ...

Software for Computing Zernike Characterization of an Optical Wave Front: TsunamiWave

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:36 GMT

Brief Description: The software is used for the full characterization of an optical beam, by the computation of Zernike polynomials from wavefront sensor data. Applications: For use in adaptive optics systems, such as scanning laser ophthalmoscopes, optical coherence tomography and astronomy. Advantages: The software provides a full characterization of the optical beam and is built to integrate with software used to control devices used in adaptive optics, such as wavefront sensors (Shack-Hartmann or other) with a digital camera, wavefront correctors (such as Boston Micr...

Compounds that Prevent Age-Related Diseases by Evolutionary Conserved Mechanisms

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:35 GMT

Brief Description: These are compounds that increase lifespan in yeast and may lead to the development of drugs effective in treating age-related diseases. Applications: The materials which have lifespan-enhancing characteristics as identified by large scale screening may lead to the development of drugs for age-related diseases in humans, such as diabetes, cancers, and neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. The compounds should be applicable to diseases related to oxidation damage. The compounds may also be useful for radiation protect...

Nano-Particle Size Detection with a Common Path Interferometer

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:34 GMT

Brief Description: This interferometer designed for nano-particle detection measures the change in amplitude and phase of light scattered relative to a common-path reference beam. Applications: The device is used in a system for detecting single particles below 40 nanometer in diameter, in a real-time with a background-free detection signal sensitive down to 5 nanometers. The technique is useful in detecting and sizing, not only viruses and other biological entities such as anthrax spores, but also nano-particles of various sorts, such as catalysts, milled ceramics and water-born...

Corrosion Simulation and Failure Forecasting for Materials and Structrures

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:32 GMT

Brief Description: The technology provides a computer simulation of corrosion and other chemical processes in a methodology similar to finite element analysis used in mechanical engineering. The method combines molecular dynamics, cellular automation and Monte Carlo methodology to simulate chemical processes in arbitrarily complex systems, which are traceable to the basic physics and chemistry. Applications: The corrosion simulation model can be used to assess the corrosion resistance of alloys and structures to forecast expected lifetimes, to define maintenance procedures and ...

Corrosion and Other Chemical Process Simulation

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:31 GMT

Brief Description: The technology provides a computer simulation of corrosion and other chemical processes in a methodology similar to finite element analysis used in mechanical engineering. Applications: The corrosion simulation model can be used to assess the corrosion resistance of alloys and structures to forecast expected lifetimes, to define maintenance procedures and methods of corrosion control. Outside the field of corrosion analysis, the methodology can be extended to the simulation of general chemical and biological processes. The method combines molecular dynamics,...

Flexible, Decoupled Hardware-Accelerated Transactional Memory

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:30 GMT

Brief Description: This is a new architecture for multi-processor computers using transactional memory. Applications: Today’s multi-core computers require explicit parallel programming, which is difficult. This transactional memory (TM) system can be used in computers with multi-core processors to reduce programming complexity and increase parallel program scalability. Advantages: Current software TM systems run on stock processors and provide substantial flexibility, but incur significant overhead for data versioning and validation in the face of conflicting transactions. &n...

Non-Blinking Quantum Dots

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:29 GMT

Brief Description: This technology provides the synthesis of quantum dots fabricated in core-shell structures of cadmium, zinc and selenium, which have short fluorescence lifetimes and show photoluminescence without intensity fluctuation (in a non-blinking manner), have high fluorescence quantum yield and are stable at relatively high temperatures. Applications: In bio-medical applications, single quantum dots could be used as cellular labels for peptides, proteins, antibodies enzymes, neurotransmitters, viruses, lipids, receptors and nucleic acids. Single quantum dots, if they are non...

High Sensitivity Interferometers Using Slow- and Fast-Light

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:28 GMT

Brief Description: This is an optical instrumentation concept for enhancing the spectral sensitivity of interferometers by use of dispersive media, in which the group velocity of light is slowed (slow-light). Conversely, spectrometers can be modified with fast-light dispersive media to reduce the sensitivity but broaden the measurable spectral range Applications: The concept for enhancing the spectral sensitivity, or broadening the measurable range, can be realized in interferometers of various types, including sheared-wedge, Mach-Zehnder, Michelson and Fabry-Perot. Th...

Optical Flip-Flop Latching Switch with Remote Optical Control

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:27 GMT

Brief Description: This all-optical switch provides flip-flop latching above 10 GHz and is controlled by optical signals which can be remote from the bi-stable device, a semiconductor optical amplifier Applications: In optical communication networks, this all-optical latching switch can be used for such network processes as bit-length conversion, data format change, de-multiplexing, packet header buffering and re-timing in wavelength division multiplexed (WMD) systems. Optical flip-flops are applicable to any signal processing function that requires memory, particularly those that requ...

Color Look-Up Tables with Lossless Compression

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:26 GMT

Brief Description: This image processing technology provides data compression for the color transformation tables which are embedded in printer firmware for optimal color printing. Applications: The concept is to be used in digital printing devices, such as color ink jet and color laser printers. Color look-up tables provide transformation between various color spaces, such as device independent color spaces (CIELAB) and device-dependent color spaces (CMYK), which can depend on print media and artistic preferences. These color look-up tables are embedded in printer hardw...

High Energy OPCPA Laser System with Improved Temporal Contrast

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:25 GMT

Brief Description: This is a method for fundamentally improving the temporal contrast of high-energy short laser pulses from Optical Parametric Chirped Pulse Amplification (OPCPA) systems by the use of regenerative pump spectral filtering. Applications: Optical Parametric Chirped Pulse Amplification (OPCPA) produces ultrashort laser pulses up to the petawatt level with the laser pulse being stretched out temporally and spectrally prior to amplification. OPCPA is the current state of the art technique which most of the highest power lasers (greater than about 100 terawatts in the world ...

Ultra-Small Highly Fluorescent Near-IR Quantum Dots

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:24 GMT

Brief Description: This technology provides a process for synthesis of PbSe quantum dot clusters, which are highly fluorescent in the near infra red, of extremely small diameter (< 2 nm), and easily fabricated. Applications: In-vivo biological imaging in the near infrared, where there is reduced absorption of the light by biological fluids, down to the single molecule level, including deep tissue cancer imaging and intra-cellular diagnostics on a single protein or single copy level. Advantages: These particular quantum dots have been found to have highly useful characteristics: &nb...

Structured Illumination Imaging for in-vitro Microscopy and in-vivo Retinal Imaging

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:23 GMT

Brief Description: In structured illumination microscopy, an object is illuminated by sinusoidally patterned light, rather than conventional uniform illumination, and digital image processing is done to obtain axial sectioning (3D imaging) and super-resolution (imaging at frequencies beyond the normal diffraction cutoff of the optical system). Applications: The technique can be used in microscopes for imaging both fluorescent and non-fluorescent objects, such as tissues, cells and micro-structures such as semiconductor chips, in both in vitro and in vivo applications. A key in vivo a...

Bio-Sensor Using Ultra-Sensitive 2D Photonic Crystal

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:22 GMT

Brief Description: This is a label-free biosensor capable of detecting a single virus. Applications: This two-dimensional silicon photonic crystal sensing platform provides ultra-sensitive label-free detection of biological substances, for application in medical devices, research and homeland security bio-sensing. Any highly selective probe molecules (ex. DNA or antibody) can be coated on the internal surfaces of the cylindrical pores in the 400 nm silicon slab which forms the photonic crystal, to capture the target molecules (ex. DNA or proteins). Advantages: The device can d...

Space-Charge-Free PN Junction

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:21 GMT

Brief Description: Semiconductor devices with this space-charge-free pn junction will not suffer from thermal process which cause noise or leakage currents. Applications: This concept can be used in semiconductor devices such as infrared detectors, photodiodes, bipolar transistors and solar cells. Advantages: The pn junction is a fundamental building block of semiconductor devices, such as diodes, transistors, optical sensors, diode lasers and LEDs. All earlier pn junctions have contained a space charge region (sometimes called the depletion layer) between the p-type and n-type layer...

Method and Apparatus for Measurement of Optical Pulses with Enhanced Dynamic-Range and Increased Bandwith

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:18 GMT

Brief Description: This is a method for measuring optical pulse shapes using time-delayed replication of the pulse in a low loss, passive, fiber-optic network followed by temporal stacking of these replicas and averaging them. Applications: This is a method for accurately measuring optical pulse shapes which require precision beyond the range of oscilloscopes. In this technique, optical pulses are averaged with their time-delayed replicas without introducing additional noise or jitter, thus allowing for high contrast pulse shape measurements of single-shot events. The techn...

Ultrasound Sonoelastographic Imaging by Crawling Wave

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:18 GMT

Applications: Change in the mechanical properties of tissue is a possible marker of disease. In this technology, the imaging modality of sonoelastography is used to examine the stiffness of tissue to discriminate normal from abnormal tissue types (such as carcinomas) by visualizing shear wave interference pattern motion (termed “crawling waves”). The mathematical algorithms can be readily translated to existing commercial ultrasound scanners equipped with Doppler imaging functionality. Advantages: The technique provides real time quantitative imaging and analysis of tissue ...

Double-Focus Imaging System

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:17 GMT

Brief Description: The device is a simple window placed under non-uniform stress, which creates discrete, axially displaced focal regions in an optical system to provide a sharp focus at two separated planes. Applications: This method can enable the simultaneous inspection of two faces of high quality glass plates, such as those used in liquid crystal displays. Another such use would be in the inspection of semiconductor masks and reticles, which often must be examined at two planes, for example at both the top and bottom of a trench. It could be used in a confocal imaging system ...

Long Nanowire of Metallic Pt Fabricated by Electrostatic Spinning Technique

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:16 GMT

Applications: This invention describes a method to prepare long nano fibers of metallic platinum and its alloys for applications as electrode catalysts in proton-membrane-exchange (PME) fuel cells. Advantages: The advantage of platinum nano fibers as catatysts in fuel cell application is their expected long life and durability as compared to the present day nanoparticles of platinum. Nano fibers provide both high surface area required for an expensive catalyst as well as mechanical stability, a characteristic which has been confirmed by experiments. Using electrostatic spi...

Frequency-Modulated Bistable Display Using Electrowetting and Liquid Dielectrophoresis

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:15 GMT

Applications: This invention relates to information display devices that are based on electrowetting technology. It creates a bistable display that can hold a bright image, made possible by two capillarity-maintained hydrostatic equilibria that allow a liquid to exist in either of two configurations, and a frequency-dependent electromechanical force that facilitates movement of the liquid back and forth between these two equilibria by brief application of AC voltage at an appropriate frequency. This invention can be used for a variety of display applications including small and la...

OLED Devices with Dinuclear Copper Compounds

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:14 GMT

Brief Description: This is an organic light emiting diode (OLED) with a unique light emitting layer having a dinuclear copper compound concentration in a host material. Applications: OLED devices can be used in displays for computers, TV and other applications. Advantages: Performance limitations in OLED devices have represented a barrier to many applications. The choice of host material in the light emitting layer is important for the optimal operation of the electroluminescent device. A worthwhile host material is one from a class of compounds that contain a carba...

Ultrasound Imaging of Tissue Stiffness by Spatially Modulated Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (SM-ARFI)

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:13 GMT

Applications: Tissue stiffness is a known marker of disease, but it is difficult to see in conventional imaging. Significant change in tissue stiffness can occur without a related change in ultrasound echogenicity or x-ray density. Quantitative measurements of stiffness, in terms of the shear modulus, would be useful clinically in the diagnosis of liver fibrous, and for finding tumors the 40% of all prostrate tumors which are not visible in ordinary ultrasound, but which can be detected by palpation because of a tissue stiffness. Acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) ultra...

Efficient Algorithm for Simulating On-Chip RLC Interconnects

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:12 GMT

Brief Description: This is a technique to simulate the on-chip transient output response of a distributed RLC interconnect. The method is based on direct pole extraction of an exact transmission line transfer function. Closed form expressions of the poles are developed for the zero driver resistance case. To utilize these expressions, an interconnect system with a driver resistance is converted to a system without a driver resistance. Based on these poles, closed form expressions for the step and ramp responses are determined. Applications: The technique is used...

Distributed Arbitrary Waveform Generator

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:10 GMT

Brief Description: The distributed waveform generator (DWG) is a CMOS chip architecture for sub-nano-second pulse generation. Applications: Wideband waveform generation and pulse shaping are critical functions in modern communication and instrumentation systems. In high-speed communications, pulse shaping is commonly employed to achieve the best performance and data rate within the limitations of the communication channel. Wideband pulse synthesis is particularly important in ultra-wideband (UWB) communications. In high-speed test and measurement applications an...

Method for Nano-Structuring Metal Surfaces by Femto-Second Laser Machining

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:09 GMT

Brief Description: This is a process using a femto second laser, which produces nanostructures with high surface area on metals such as Ti, Pt, Au, Cu, Al, W. The method can dramatically alter the surface reflectivity rendering the metals black, or can be controlled to produce unexpected colors. For example, platinum and aluminium can be made to appear gold, gray, or black. Applications: The method for modifying the surface of metals and other materials with femto-second laser pulses can be used in several applications. For increasing optical absor...

Fluid Management System and Method for Fluid Dispensing and Coating

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:08 GMT

Applications: This invention relates to the problem of dispensing a thin film of a release agent in liquid (oil) form to certain rotating rolls in electrophotographic copiers or printers. It consists of an integrated oil dispenser system with a pouch in which the oil is stored and a dispersing mechanism, controlled by an electrostatic transducer. An important feature of this dispersing system is a wiper blade with integral electrodes, permitting active control of the oil film that is applied to the roller. The entire dispensing system is conveniently fabricated from a single...

Ballistic Deflection Transistor and Ballistic Deflection Transistor Based Logic Circuits

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:08 GMT

Brief Description: The nano-scale structures of the transistor are smaller than the mean-free path of the electrons, which travel in a ballistic, non-ohmic manner in the semiconductor. The device does not have a conventional junction, like convenitional transistors, and uses a non-linearity phenomenon which only exists in the ballistic regime. Applications: This fundamentally new transistor concept is expected to operate in the THz frequency range. It will be used in ultra-high speed digital, analog and mixed signal circuits. Initial applications are expected i...

Enhanced Music and Audio Via Embedded Data in MP3 Files

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:07 GMT

Brief Description: A technique for embedding data in an mp3, but not in the header file. The metadata is not easily removed by a hacker without significantly destroying the audio. The data capacity depends somewhat on the nature of the music, but is of the order of tens of kb/minute, with no change in the size of the mp3 file. Applications: Data embedded in mp3 audio files can be used for protection of copyrighted digital media, and to enhance a musical recording with such things as lyrics, cataloging information, musical scores, MIDI representation...

Behavior-Oriented Parallelization for Multi-Processor Computers

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:06 GMT

Applications: This software productivity tool converts conventional code to run-time code for multi-processor computers. It provides a simple method for converting large bodies of existing code written for conventional single-processor computers to parallelized code which can take advantage of the new multi-processor computers to achieve performance enhancements of several-fold. Advantages: While other methods exist to parallelize code, these have typically been complex and may depend on bit-level operations, unrestricted pointers, exception handling, custom m...

PC-Compatible Software for X-ray Spectroscopy with an SXX-100

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:05 GMT

Brief Description: This PC-compatible software provides a technology update for existing SSL SSX-100 X-ray spectroscopy instruments, which were originally controlled by a HP 9000 computer with commercial HPBASIC software. Applications: The software enables the use of a modern PC to control an existing SSL SSX-100 X-ray spectroscopy instrument, improving performance and data transfer to modern PC and Macintosh computer systems. Advantages: The original older HP computer is now out-dated and awkward for data acquisition and data transfer to modern PC and Macintosh computers. The softwa...

Tunable Shape Memory Polymers

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:04 GMT

Applications: This invention relates to a class of network polymers, containing reversibly associating side-groups that can be structurally tailored as “shape memory” materials for a variety of applications in biotechnology and medicine as well as such other uses as shapeable tools, intelligent packaging, recyclable thermosets, etc. They contain both covalent and non-covalent cross-links and can readily be deformed to over 100% strain and be tailored to return to their original shape on a desired timescale. They are solid, transparent, soft and comfortable to touch. Advantages: T...

Image sensor with a Current Sensing Active Pixel (CSAP)

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:03 GMT

Brief Description: This is an improved CMOS image sensor, which is 40 times faster than conventional CMOS image sensors, operating from a 3.3 V power supply, with significantly lower 1/f noise. The circuit utilizes the standard APS design and retains the high fill factor in a 0.35 µm standard CMOS process. In this current sensing active pixel (CSAP) sensor, the negative feedback circuit that connects the readout of the pixel increases the current driving capabilities and readout speed. Applications: For image sensors in digital cameras and in cell phone cameras. Advant...

Retinal Imaging of Low Light Signals

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:02 GMT

Brief Description: This technology enables high resolution in vivo images of the retina by a technique of simultaneous image capture and dual registration, which corrects for the natural movement of the living eye to enable many imaging frames to be combined to increase the signal to noise ratio from very weak signals, such as those from fluorescence or phase imaging, by monitoring the eye motion with conventional reflectance imaging. Applications: Retinal imaging is done to diagnose retinal disease, such as diabetic macular edema, retinitis pigmentosa, age-related macular degenerati...

Digital MEMs Amplitude and Phase Control of an Optical Wavefront

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:59 GMT

Brief Description: This concept enables the generation of an arbitrary optical wavefront digitally, using binary MEMS micro-mirror chips, which are commercially available from the display industry. Applications: The method can be used in an active optics mode to change a wavefront on demand and hold it steady, for such applications optical metrology for lens inspection. It can also be used in an adaptive optics mode to correct a rapidly changing distorted optical wavefront into a plane wave, or conversely converting a plane wave into an arbitrarily varying out...

Watermark for Speech Applications / Watermark Synchronization

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:58 GMT

Brief Description: A big problem in watermarking is the technical isssue of synchronization between the sender and receiver. This technology provides a method for resolving synchronization errors at the receiver, which is functional even with low data rate communications, such as speech communication through analog radio. Applications: The concept enables embedding data in a low bit rate channel, such as a voice channel over radio. The embedded data “watermark” is hidden and robust, and can be used to identify and authenticate the source of the signal. One immediat...

Nanoparticle Detection by Multi-Color Heterodyne Interferometry

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:55 GMT

Brief Description: The technology provides a method for detecting a single nano particle, in a real-time and background-free detection signal sensitive down to 5 nanometers, by interferometrically measuring the electromagnetic field amplitude of the scattered light. Detection with two or more different wavelengths provides data to determine not only the size but also the wavelength-dependent dielectric properties of the particle, which can be useful in identifying the particle composition. Applications: The technique is useful in detecting and sizing, not only virus...

Hardware-Accelerated Transactional Memory

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:53 GMT

Brief Description: This is a hybrid approach, in which hardware is used to accelerate a transactional memory implementation of a multi-core computer, controlled fundamentally by software. Applications: The computer industry is turning to multi-core and multi-threaded processors to increase performance. These multi-core processors require explicit parallel programming, which is difficult. Transactional memory (TM) systems are needed for multi-core processors to increase parallel program scalability and reduce programming complexity. Advantages: Current software TM syste...

Image Sensor with a Sigma-Delta ADC Using Only 3 and 4 Transistors/Pixel

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:53 GMT

Brief Description: This is an improvement to a conventional CMOS image sensor, which uses at least 5 transistors per pixel. Applications: The image sensor is applicable to cell phone cameras, digital still cameras, medical instruments, bar code readers, security and surveillance, video cameras, and HDTV cameras. One niche market where this technology has particular advantage is in security cameras, which require large dynamic range to record images at widely varying light levels. A wireless security camera would require low power usage. Both of these r...

Injection-Locked Frequency Dividers with Odd-Number Division Ratios

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:52 GMT

Brief Description: Frequency dividers are essential building blocks in wireless and wireline communication systems. An injection-locked frequency divider (ILFD) can provide lower power dissipation and better noise performance than common digital dividers, but their application has been hindered in the past because of limited locking range and division ratios. This technology solves the problem of division ratio limitation. Applications: Frequency dividers are used in wireless and wireline communication systems and in radar, where they are used for frequency synthesis, MUX/D...

Distributed Amplifiers with Built-In Filtering for UWB Impulse Radio

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:51 GMT

Brief Description: This technology provides a distributed amplifier (DA) with built-in, on-chip filters so that the frequency response of the distributed amplifier is controlled, on chip, not only within the pass band, but also in the transition and stop bands. The very precise filtering is particularly useful for UWB impulse radios, which need to control interference between UWB and existing narrow-band wireless communication. Applications: Distributed amplifiers are widely used in wideband systems, such as ultra wideband (UWB) radio, radar, ultra-fast instrumentation...

Blue-Noise Modulated Sigma-Delta Analog-To-Digital Converter

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:49 GMT

Brief Description: This analog to digital convertor (ADC) is designed to reduce the impact of substrate noise, when the noise-sensitive analog circuits and the noise-generating digital circuits are placed closely together on a common substrate. Applications: This sigma-delta analog to digital converter (ADC) is to be used in integrated system-on-a-chip (SOC) circuits requiring high resolution and low to moderate bandwidth. Advantages: The first design studies and simulations of the new architecture show an overall improvement in signal to noise ratio of 14 dB. ...

Phantoms for Calibrating MRI and CT Imaging Systems

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:48 GMT

Applications: The phantoms are thin film structures used for calibrating MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and x-ray CT (computed tomography) systems to assure the quality of images. Advantages: Phantoms for testing and measuring the performance of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and x-ray computed tomography (CT) imaging systems must have regions of precisely controlled magnetic resonance and x-ray absorption imaging properties. In our phantoms, these regions contain subresolvable regions, or distinct micro regions, with pre-selected magnetic resonance or x-ray absorption proper...

Light-Emitting Organic Materials

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:46 GMT

Brief Description: This material for OLED devices are glassy amorphous and liquid crystalline molecules with hole and electron transporting cores to which conjugated oligomers are bonded through a flexible space molecule. The oligofluorene pendants are designed to provide light emission of desired color and polarization properties. Applications: The material is for use as Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) flat-panel displays and particularly for backlight systems in liquid crystal based information displays. Advantages: The materials of this invention improve device efficie...

Reflective Optical Biosensor

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:45 GMT

Brief Description: This technology uses polarized light reflectance interferometry for label-free detection of pathogens, monoclonal antibodies, proteins and other target bio-molecules on a micro-array silicon chip, with sensitivity similar to that of SPR and ELISA techiniques, but in a low cost real-time system. Applications: This technology can be used for the label-free detection of bio-molecules in several market segments: 1. Measurement of biomolecular interactions in research and drug discovery. 2. Point-or-care diagnostics in ...

LED Illumination System Using a Condensing Sphere

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:44 GMT

Brief Description: A condensing sphere is proposed for efficient, compact collimation for LED illumination. Light from the LED is either refracted by the dielectric sphere or trapped within the sphere by internal reflection. The planar surface breaks the total internal reflection and sends the rays in the forward direction. (No reflective coating is needed at the planar surface.) Applications: Because of their very low power usage and high reliability LEDs are used for flashlights, automotive illumination, and architectural lighting. The parabolic reflect...

Nano-Particle Size Detection by Interferometry

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:43 GMT

Brief Description: Particles are detected optically with a laser beam split by a beam splitter into an attenuated reference beam and a beam that is focused on a nanoscale channel in a micro-fluidic system. Scattered light from a passing nano particle is recombined with the reference beam to provide a background-free signal. Applications: This method can detect a single nano particle, such as a single virus in water. The method is based on interferometrically measuring the electromagnetic field amplitude of the scattered light, and is sensitive down to 5 nanometers. The tech...

Synthesis of Nano-Materials in Ionic Liquids

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:42 GMT

Brief Description: This is a method for preparing nanoparticles of metals, metal oxides, metal alloys and semiconductive elements and their alloys, using an ionic liquid as reaction medium together with an appropriate stabilizing agent. Applications: This provides an environmentally benign chemical processes that use ionic liquids as a reaction medium to produce nanoparticles for their catalytic, magnetic, optical, electrical or other properties. Advantages: The process is simple since the nanoparticles self-separate, thus allowing easy separation of the ionic liquid for re-use. T...

Method and Apparatus to Reduce Noise Fluctuations in On-Chip Power Distribution Networks

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:41 GMT

Brief Description: The is a circuit design technique for reducing the noise fluctuations in on-chip power distribution networks when digital circuits are switched, producing current peaks and voltage fluctuations in power supply lines due to the inductive behavior of interconnects. Applications: For use in many CMOS circuties for reducing on-chip or chip-to-package noise which results when digital circuits are switched. Advantages: Previous attempts to reduce this noise which is becoming increasing a limiting factor in high speed, very deep submicrometer circuit designs, h...

Space-Variant Waveplates for Polarization Conversion

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:40 GMT

Brief Description: This technology is a waveplate which converts homogeneously polarized light into spatially inhomogeneously polarized light, such as a radially polarized beam converted from a linearly polarized source. Applications: Inhomogeneously polarized light can be used in dark field microscopy and in confocal microscopy to detect phase or gradient changes in materials, to enhance image contrast and edge resolution. The cylindrical vector beams can provide an alternative view in microscopy for resolving fine details and edges, as an alternative to linear polarized ...

A Dispersion-Free, Automatically Phase-Matched, and Broad Spectral-Band Femtosecond Autocorrelation Technique

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:38 GMT

Brief Description: The technique uses second harmonic generated (SHG) autocorrelation from metal surfaces to characterize the femtosecond laser pulses. Applications: This invention offers a technique to temporally characterize ultra short (femtosecond) laser pulses. It is simple in its design and has very broad spectral bandwidth. Advantages: Most current techniques rely on the use of a nonlinear crystal to generate autocorrelation non-linear signal. These techniques, although straight forward, have a number of limitations. The most significant disadvantage stems from the phase-matchi...

Electrically Addressed Doped Polymer Cholesteric Liquid Crystal Flakes for Optical Device Applications

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:36 GMT

Applications: This invention relates to optical devices in which doped PCLC flakes can be used in a host fluid in either passive or active devices with optical properties that can be manipulated and controlled by an electric field for use in information displays, shutters, switchable filters, polarizers, wavelength selective mirrors, etc. Advantages: This invention uses micron sized PCLC flakes doped with a variety of materials such as titanium dioxide, barium titanate, carbon black, metal particles, etc. suspended in a host fluid system to manipulate the angular motion of the flakes in resp...

Fiber Laser Super-Continuum Light Source

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:35 GMT

Brief Description: A novel tapered doped optical fiber structure, when coupled to an external laser, can produce broadband ultra-short “super-continuum” light pulses of low noise and high spectral coherence at high efficiency. The devices are short tapered structures formed from holey fiber (HF), which introduces dispersion micro-management (DMM) to compensate for dispersion and provide non-linearity. Applications: Super-continuum ultra-fast light sources can be used in medical imaging for two photon imaging and for optical coherence tomography (OCT) , in optical frequenc...

Sonoelastographic Imaging of Soft Tissue

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:33 GMT

Applications: Change in the mechanical properties of tissue is a possible marker of disease. In this technology, the medical imaging modality of sonoelastography is used to examine the elasticity of soft tissue by visualizing the behavior of shear waves excited by an external ultrasonic source. The technique allows the shear wave propagation to be virtually slowed down so that it can be visualized using the existing Doppler hardware in modern ultrasound systems. The images, called “crawling waves” provide information similar to magnetic resonance elastography, with the adva...

Retinal Imaging with Adaptive Optics Optical Coherence Tomography (AO-OCT)

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:32 GMT

Brief Description: Adaptive optics is used in optical coherence tomography (OCT) to provide very high axial resolution in a non-invasive "optical sectioning" technique for imaging at various depths within living human tissue. In the current commercial application of OCT for retinal imaging, the transverse resolution is limited by the intrinsic ocular aberrations of the eye. This invention applies adaptive optics via a deformable mirror and wavefront sensor to correct for those aberrations. Applications: Retinal imaging is used to diagnose diseases of the eye. ...

Genetic Engineered Clostridium Thermocellum for Ethanol Production from Cellulose

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:30 GMT

Applications: Ethanol from cellulose promises to provide a replacement for gasoline in greater quantity and at lower cost than ethanol from corn. The anaerobic bacterium Clostridium thermocellum is an excellent candidate for conversion of renewable cellulose biomass to ethanol because it is a robust thermophile with stable enzymes. Advantages: The ideal organism to make ethanol from cellulose biomass will break down cellulose, ferment sugar, tolerate high concentrations of ethanol, and produce only ethanol. Research has focused on modifying organisms that already per...

Nanofabrication Using Actin Biocolumns

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:29 GMT

Brief Description: A method to fabricate actin biocolumns, which are semi-flexible structures, from 10 to100 microns long, made from bundles of the natural biopolymer actin, one of nature's most versatile and abundant self-assembling proteins. Applications: The technology enables filament structures on a nanometer scale for use in optical devices and computer chips. The biocolumns may also be converted to wires by metalizing the surfaces. Advantages: Actin biocolumns are advantaged because the fabrication can be controlled. Many natural binding proteins for ac...

Ultrasound Distortion Compensation Using a “Blind System Identification” Method

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:28 GMT

Applications: This technology provides an increase in the resolution of ultrasound imaging by a new method of compensating for waveform aberration caused by muscle, fat and other tissue inhomogeneities. Advantages: Medical use of ultrasound for diagnostic imaging of the heart, abdomen, and fetus is now limited by wave front distortion caused by inhomogeneity within tissue that degrades geometric focusing to yield images less than satisfactory for accurate diagnosis. Earlier attempts, using a single-phase screen method, compensate for time-shift distortion alone. This new me...

Frequency Modulated Analog to Digital Converter

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:27 GMT

Brief Description: This analog to digital converter (ADC) circuit uses a frequency modulation (FM) approach to obtain a device which uses less than 10% of the power of conventional designs and will scale well in future low voltage circuits in 0.18 namometer CMOS and below. Applications: Current wired and wireless telecommunication devices typically demodulate an analog FM signal and then convert it to a digital signal for digital signal processing. With this concept, analog mixers, demodulators and down-conversion mixers are eliminated, reducing the power requirement and making it part...

Multi-Frequency Open-Channel DEP Cell Sorting Integrated with DEP Microfluidic System

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:26 GMT

Applications: This invention relates to technologies that are used as 'laboratory-on-a-chip' (LOC) and offers microsystems for massively parallel chemical analysis, drug testing, bioassay, and cell material separation, removal and detections. Advantages: This invention integrates an open-channel two-stage dielectrophoretic (DEP) droplet dispensing and distribution system to create a novel LOC platform capable of manipulating and separating biological cells and cell materials based on their varied dielectrophoretic signatures that distinguish cells in a population, for example, healthy...

Reconstruction of an Image Mosaic

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:25 GMT

Brief Description: This is software which can automatically knit together images into a continuous mosaic. The process involves fiding matching features in the input image, rejecting inconsistent matches, and computing a projective mapping which wraps the images into a common coordinate system for display. Applications: The software can be used for automatic map-making. It can also be used in security monitoring and surveilance systems, which have object recognition and change detection features. Other applications include uses in a system for route-finding, obstacle dete...

Ultrathin Membranes and Hollow Three-Dimensional Structures

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:24 GMT

Brief Description: These membranes, made of silicon or silicon nitride, range in thickness from several hundred nanometers to many microns and are fabricated using conventional silicon microelectronic processing. Applications: These free-standing membranes can be used as substrates in transmission electron microcsopy and may be incorporated as elements of micro-mechanical system (MEMS) devices. These membranes can be used for various applications, including microphones, pressure sensors, and microchips. Advantages: This technology utilizes a robust single-surf...

An Input Signal Power Sensing Sentry for Smart-Sensor Applications

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:22 GMT

Brief Description: A design for low power CMOS system-on-a-chip mixed signal wireless sensor devices. Applications: The concept is used in devices to monitor vibration, audio, radiation or other signals, for which low power usage is important. Such applications can include wireless vibration sensors in mechanical equipment to detect a bad bearing or other machine fault, or for intrusion detection in a security system. Advantages: This concept extends battery life by enabling a “sentry mode” continuous monitoring of the signal at very low power consumption, on the order of nano...

Change Detection and Object Discovery in Video

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:21 GMT

Brief Description: Software which analyzes digital video and detects the motion of objects to analyze the nature of that object. Applications: This software is used to automate security video cameras, by analyzing the video to discover objects by watching for activity, and then evaluating the compact changed regions. Application to homeland security systems and automated security camera systems. Advantages: The software detects the motion of objects and proceeds to analyze the nature of that object. After the detection of the change in the scene, the software then obtains h...

Fiber Laser Dispersion Compensator

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:20 GMT

Brief Description: Fabricated from single-mode optical fiber, novel tapered structures compensate for dispersion and provide non-linearity in laser systems. Applications: With doped optical fiber, a new class of compact, inexpensive mode-lock fiber lasers can be built. With tapered structures of doped PM (polarizing maintaining) fiber, a PM mode-locked fiber laser can be fabricated. This design is advantaged over alternative solutions because it is an integrated structure which is fusion spliced at both ends. The concept can also be applied in an optical amplifier, in wh...

Suppression of Stimulated Brillouin Scattering in Optical Fibers Using Fiber Bragg Gratings

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:19 GMT

Brief Description: This invention describes the use of a sampled fiber Bragg grating fabricated in an optical fiber, which is transparent to the forward-propagating optical pulses, but reflective to the backward-propagating wave. Applications: Fiber lasers could replace CO2 lasers and YAG crystal lasers for industrial applications of welding, cutting and micromachining, because they are more compact, are easier to cool and have much better beam quality with a smaller spot size and significantly lower divergence (greater focal length), for a larger effective working distance for ...

Rapid Flow Fractionation of Biologically Relevant Particles Using Combined Electromechanical Liquid Microactuation and Particle Dielectrophoresis

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:18 GMT

Applications: This invention relates to an on-chip size- and frequency- based apparatus for dielectrophoretic separation of biological particles (cell, organelles, Proteins, DNA, etc.), with applications to cell sorting and beneficiation for the laboratory-on-a-chip applications. Advantages: The invention uses a non-uniform electric field created by co-planar microelectrode strips patterned on an insulating substrate to cause rapid, size-based flow fractionation of particles in liquid suspension. The scheme involves dielectrophoretic (DEP) force both to distribute aqueous ...

Image Sensor with a Sigma-Delta ADC at Every Pixel

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:16 GMT

Brief Description: This is a high dynamic range CMOS image sensor with very low power usage, having a multiplexed-separated sigma-delta ADC at each pixel. Applications: This image sensor is applicable to cell phone cameras, digital still cameras, medical instruments, bar code readers, security and surveillance, video cameras, and HDTV cameras. One niche market where this technology has particular advantage is in security cameras, which require large dynamic range to record images at widely varying light levels. A wireless security camera would require low power usage. ...

Image Authentification and Data Embedding

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:15 GMT

Brief Description: The software technology, which we have called AuthentImage , embeds imperceptible tags (watermarks) into an image without causing any loss of the image information. The tags embedded within the image provide a verification mechanism to assure that the image has not been altered. The information in the embedded tags can be extracted and is used to identify the image, establish its source, and verify its integrity (assure that it has not been tampered with). Applications: The ability to assure that authenticity of an image is useful in medical imaging, fo...

High Gain Bulk-Driven Operational Amplifiers for SOC Applications

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:14 GMT

Brief Description: This invention relates to a SOC (system on chip) design for an operational amplifier, which provides the highest open loop gain of any bulk-driven amplifiers. Applications: The design would be of value to any low power, voltage analog and mixed-signal CMOS integrated circuit design, which operate at low voltage and low power, such as hearing aids, implantable cardiac pacemakers, cell phones and other portable hand held devices. Advantages: Operational amplifiers are required in a wide range of signal processing devices, including analog-to-digital converters, analo...

Metrics to Predict the Subjective Impact of the Eye's Wave Aberration

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:12 GMT

Brief Description: A vision quality metric is an algorithm which interprets the complex wavefront measurements of the aberrations in a human eye in a way which reflects the subjective perception of vision quality. Applications: The vision quality metric is to be used with a wavefront aberrometer to calculate a description of the quality of vision. This metric can serve as the merit function (or optimization parameter) to compute an objective prescription of vision correction. As such, it can be used in an auto-refractor device to provide the defocus and astigmatism descript...

Control of Temperature Effects in Photonic Bandgap Devices

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:11 GMT

Brief Description: This technology provides a process to control the temperature dependence of silicon-based photonic bandgap microcavities and other photonic bandgap materials systems. Applications: Photonic bandgap (PBG) structures can be used for waveguides, mirrors, filters and lasers. In PBG devices, the characteristic frequency range over which no light can be transmitted (i.e., the band gap) is dependent on the dielectric functions of the materials, and typically suffers from thermal drift due to the temperature dependence of the refractive index. Advantages...

Magnetic Nano-Particles, Nanocomposites, and Films

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:10 GMT

Brief Description: This is a method for producing nanometer-sized magnetic composite particles, bulk materials, and granular films of hard (high coercivity) magnetic materials of iron-platinum alloy. Applications: The process can produce the face-centered tetragonal (fct) form of FePt, which is particularly desirable because of its high magnetic anisotropy, high coercivity and small domain wall width (about 3 nm), minimal stable grain sizes (about 2.9 to 3.4 nm) and chemical stability. The synthesis process includes the creation of platinum-maghemite (Pt core and ma...

OLED Materials for Polarized, Tunable Color (and White) Emission

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:08 GMT

Brief Description: This is a new class of organic light emitting diode (OLED) materials which are capable of producing efficient polarized light in particular colors (blue, green, red) as defined by the chemical structure of the materials selected. Applications: Because this technology provides an efficient source for the polarized light, it could be used in power-saving light sources in liquid crystal displays (LCD), which account for the bulk of flat panel display market today. Current LCDs use absorptive polarizers and color filters, which limit efficiency of the back-light ...

Music Classification and Search

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:07 GMT

Brief Description: Software which uses Daubechies Wavelet Coefficient Histograms (DWCHs) for music feature extraction. Applications: The technology is targeted to enable a search for songs based on their intrinsic nature, in addition to any structured indexing provided. It will appeal to listeners with musical tastes outside the mainstream, who would like to discover music by less well-known artists, with a sound similar to something else they like. It would enable new marketing approaches, such as Amazon.com's “A-Customer-Like-You-Enjoys” database, or the automated selecti...

Glassy Liquid Crystals (GLCs) for Optical Polarizing Films

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:06 GMT

Brief Description: This is a class of glass-forming liquid crystal (GLC) compositions for optical devices with outstanding mechanical properties for device fabrication and durability. Optical quality films prepared from these compositions demonstrate strong selective reflection and circular polarization, as well as circularly polarized photoluminescence. Applications: The materials can be used for high efficiency polarizers in flat panel displays, optical notch filters for laser protection, latching electro-optical devices for optical communication, interference pigments and for ...

Wireless Control Protocol for Energy Efficiency in Ad-Hoc Networks

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:05 GMT

Brief Description: The technology provides real-time packet broadcasting in a multihop radio network using a medium access control (MAC) protocol that combines advantageous features of both centralized and distributed networks for energy efficiency with high throughput. Applications: This is for radio communication by a group carrying radios, such as a military unit, or a fire-fighter team. Advantages: A novel clustering algorithm dynamically organizes the network into two-hop clusters, which coordinate channel access and minimize interference. Time is organized into cyclic supe...

Audio Watermarking and Data-Hiding

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:04 GMT

Brief Description: The technology enables the insertion and recovery of hidden data in audio files through manipulation of the relative phase of harmonically related components of a host audio signal. Applications: Data hiding in video and audio, is of interest for the protection of copyrighted digital media, and to the government for information systems security and for covert (stegnographic) communications. It can also be used in forensic applications for inserting hidden data into audio files for the authentication of spoken words and other sounds, and in the music business f...

Switched-Capacitor Filter for the Mirrored Integrator ADC

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:03 GMT

Brief Description: This technology provides the design for a fully differential, high-pass switched-capacitor filter, or "mirrored integrator", which is a significant element of the previously proposed, improved analog to digital converter (ADC) architecture. Applications: The new ADC architecture features reduced noise and power consumption, increased resolution and stability, and smaller device size. The essence of the new ADC architecture is to control circuit noise by shifting the input signal to the upper frequency range of the spectrum. The output signal is th...

Room Temperature Source of Polarized Single Photons on Demand

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:02 GMT

Brief Description: The source uses a single-dye-molecule fluorescence to emit only one photon at a time. The dye is placed at very low concentration (1 molecule/mm 3) in a liquid crystal host, which is chosen to provide alignment of the dopant chromophore for maximum excitation efficiency. Applications: Single photon sources are necessary for both quantum cryptography and quantum computing concepts. Quantum cryptography utilizes the Heisenberg uncertainty principle, that every quantum measurement changes the observed system, to guarantee secure communication.&nb...

Wireless Control Protocol for Energy Efficiency

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:01 GMT

Brief Description: The technology provides real-time packet broadcasting in a radio network using a medium access control (MAC) protocol that combines advantageous features of both centralized and distributed networks for energy efficiency with high throughput. Applications: For use in military radios and similar applications for groups communicating by radio. Advantages: TheTRACE (Time Reservations using Adaptive Control for Energy Efficiency) protocol provides energy-efficient, reliable real-time voice packet broadcasting in a single-hop infrastructure-less radio...

Inhomogeneous Polarized Light from Stacked Waveplates

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:01:00 GMT

Brief Description: This technology is a waveplate which converts homogeneously polarized light into cylindrically polarized light, such as the radially polarized beam. Applications: The device creates inhomogeneously polarized light which can be used in dark field microscopy and in confocal microscopy to detect phase or gradient changes in materials, to enhance image contrast and edge resolution. It can be used in biomedical microscopy and in semiconductor device inspection. Advantages: The cylindrical vector beams can provide an alternative view in microscopy...

Temporal Affinity Analysis Optimization for Software Performance

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:59 GMT

Brief Description: This concept applies to the optimization of hardware and the effectiveness of cache allocation for given applications and software. The goal is not cache analysis, but program analysis. It provides a general method for improving software performance by providing a hierarchical partition of program data. Applications: The most straightforward way of implementing the technology is in a compiler, such that the advantage is applied to all software run on the system. Since the compiler is fundamental to the computer system performance, this improvement f...

Image Sensor Array with MPEG Data Compression

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:56 GMT

Applications: This technology is an image sensor for digital cameras, which provides direct real-time output of MPEG compressed images. This single chip provides a factor of 4 improvement in power efficiency over conventional systems which output compressed MPEG images. It would be applicable in wireless security cameras and other power-sensitive digital imaging applications, such as cell phone cameras. Advantages: A major computational bottleneck in MPEG image compression is the calculation of the discrete cosine transform (DCT) of the image. The key adv...

A Metric for Computing Subjective Sharpness From Wave Sensor Data

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:55 GMT

Brief Description: This technology introduces a sharpness metric, for use both as a parameter to describe the quality of vision and as a merit function in the computation of prescriptions for vision correction from wavefront measurements. Applications: The sharpness metric can be used to calculate the optimal laser refractive surgery treatment or in an auto-refractor device, to provide the defocus and astigmatism descriptors normally used to prescribe spectacles and contact lenses. It could enable an auto-refractor instrument which would be more accurate ...

Domino Logic with Variable Threshold Voltage Keeper

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:54 GMT

Brief Description: The invention offers a high speed, low power domino logic circuit for microprocessors. The design involves a dynamic body biased keeper circuit which simultaneously reduces power consumption and enhances speed.. Applications: For CMOS logic circuits requiring high speed. Advantages: Domino CMOS logic circuits which are commonly used in high performance microprocessors for their high speed and area characteristics, are highly sensitive to noise as compared to static gates. In standard domino logic gates, a feedback keeper is employed to maintain the state of the dynamic no...

Image Authentication and Data-Hiding

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:53 GMT

Brief Description: The technology is a technique for hiding data inside an image in a lossless, "reversible" manner such that the original signal can be recovered unchanged after the hidden information is extracted. This software technology, which we have called AuthentImage , embeds imperceptible tags (watermarks) into an image which are then used to detect whether that portion of the image has been altered. Applications: The technique is valuable when it is critical both to authenticate an image (to identify it and assure that it has not been tampered with) and to convert that ...

Image and Graphics Computational RAMs with a Novel Arithmetic Logic Scheme

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:51 GMT

Applications: The technology describes a new architecture for a Computational RAM (CRAM) image and graphics processor. The concept links memory elements to arithmetic logic, which is based on small multipliers, which are dynamically configurable, as required, to enable a range of operations, such as matrix multiplication, vector-vector multiplication, addition, subtraction and comparison. Advantages: Conventional PIM (processor in memory) graphics accelerators employ arithmetic logic units (ALUs), which are similar to a general-purpose sequential microprocessor. Thos...

Image and Graphics Computational RAMs with a Novel Arithmetic Logic Scheme

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:49 GMT

Brief Description: This is a new architecture for a Computational RAM (CRAM) processor in which memory elements are linked to arithmetic logic, based on small multipliers, which are dynamically configurable, as required, to enable a range of operations, such as matrix multiplication, vector-vector multiplication, addition, subtraction and comparison. Applications: It will be used for image and graphics processor chips. Advantages: Conventional PIM (processor in memory) graphics accelerators employ arithmetic logic units (ALUs), which are similar to a general-purpose sequential mi...

Low Swing Dual Threshold Voltage Domino Logic Circuits

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:48 GMT

Brief Description: This is a domino logic circuit for microprocessors with lower power consumption than current designs without sacrificing noise immunity. It employs sleep switch transistors and a dual threshold voltage transistor distribution for placing a domino logic circuit into a low leakage state. Applications: For CMOS microprocessor logic designs. Advantages: Current aggressive circuit design which focus solely on enhancing circuit speed in microprocessors, consume power levels that impose a limiting factor on system performance and functionality. Attempts to reduce pow...

Monodisperse Conjugated Oligomers for Polarized Light Emission

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:47 GMT

Applications: This invention relates to light-emitting organic oligomer compositions and methods for producing them for use in various optoelectronic devices and in particular in Organic Light-Emitting Diodes (OLED) for information displays and as backlight sources for conventional liquid crystalline displays. In such devices these oligomers can emit polarized light of a color that can be tuned by varying the chemical makeup of the constituent oligomers. Certain oligomer compositions of this invention can also be used as protective layers in electronic devices or as fluorescent co...

Side-Coupled Integrated Spaced Sequence of Resonators (SCISSOR)

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:46 GMT

Brief Description: This device, constructed of a sequence of micro-resonators coupled to an optical waveguide, demonstrates non-linearities and strong dispersive effects, which can be orders of magnitude greater than corresponding effects in traditional photonic devices. The two effects, occurring in ultrashort distances in this novel structure, lead to exotic optical properties. While the refractive index of conventional materials is in the range of 1 to 4, the group refractive index here can be 1000. Applications: Can be used for a bio-detector. Advantages: O...

Fiber Optic Gas Sensor for Exhaust Gases

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:45 GMT

Brief Description: A fiber-optics fluorescence sensor for monitoring oxygen content in the exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine. Applications: For monitoring oxygen content of exhaust gases for control of an automobile's catalytic converter to reduce harmful emissions. Advantages: This sensor is smaller and lighter than earlier ceramic fluorescence sensors, and is more reliable against vibration and heat. The device is formed on a single substrate with a Bragg grating connecting the fluorescent sensor to the fiber optic cable. Technology Status: This patent portfolio was...

Extended Depth of Field Imaging for Bar Code Readers

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:43 GMT

Brief Description: The technology combines a novel multi-focal aspherical lens with computer image processing to provide an imaging system with up to a ten-fold increase in the depth of field over conventional imaging. Applications: The technique can provide bar code readers with a dramatic depth of field improvement, a reduction in mechanical complexity and increase in exposure utilization. Advantages: The invention uses a lens with a focal length that varies continuously with radius. For each distance, there is an annular portion of the lens, which will provide a sharp image.&...

Sigma-Delta Analog to Digital Converter Architecture Based upon a Novel Modulator Design Employing a Mirrored Integrator

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:42 GMT

Brief Description: This technology provides an improved analog to digital converter (ADC) for lower noise, increased resolution and stability, reduced power consumption and smaller device size. Applications: This analog to digital converter (ADC) will compete with the conventional sigma delta ADC designs for high resolution applications because of both dynamic range and power reasons, and with other ADC types in certain applications because of its low power requirements. Advantages: In the new architecture, the frequency spectrum of the input signal is reflected ab...

Adaptive Issue Queue for Reduced Power at High Performance

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:41 GMT

Brief Description: This is a method to reduce power consumption in microprocessor functional modules which have dedicated memory, buffer, or queue resources by forming a queue to those resources, based on dynamic statistics of the memory module activity, and depending on need or activity, the modules are adaptively changed in size. Applications: This concept is for super-scalar micro-processors. Such processors can accept instructions similar to a scalar processor, but has the additional capability to fetch, issue and execute multiple instructions in a given machine cycle. ...

Method for Maintaining Data Coherence within a Cluster of Symmetric Multiprocessors

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:40 GMT

Brief Description: The technology provides a method for maintaining the coherence of data between nodes of a symmetric multiprocessor (SMP) cluster. Applications: This architecture is to be used in large scale parallel processing applications employing a shared memory programming model with hardware cache coherence. Advantages: This technique reconciles the hardware implemented coherence of multiple symmetric multiprocessor nodes with software implemented coherence among the nodes. A cluster of small multiprocessors can be more cost effective than a single larger m...

Characterization of Ultrashort Optical Pulses Using SPIDER

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:38 GMT

Brief Description: Ultra-short optical pulses are measured using spectral phase interferometry for direct electric field reconstruction (SPIDER). Applications: For the measurement of optical pulses from pico-, femto- and atto-second laser sources. Such ultra-fast pulsed lasers are used in micro-ablation and micro-machining applications. Advantages: This high sensitivity detector provides complete measurements of both the temporal and spatial distributions of amplitude and phase. The spectral phase interferometry for direct electric field reconstruction (SPIDER...

Scalable Queue-Based Spin Locks with Timeout

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:36 GMT

Brief Description: This invention is a scalable queue-based spin lock algorithm for multi-processor computers that ensure that the time required for the next process to acquire the lock is independent of the number of other processors attempting to acquire the lock concurrently. Applications: Large scale databases and internet transaction applications now demand parallel servers capable of running on machines with 20 to 100 processors. Spin locks are widely used to synchronize the programs designed to be run on shared-memory multi-processors. Versions of the algorit...

Superconducting Magneto-Optic Modulator

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:35 GMT

Breif Description: This technology provides an optical interface for super-conducting single-flux-quantum (SFQ) logic systems. The magneto-optical modulator is based on the Faraday Effect and consists of microwave microstrip line (MSL) with a polarization-sensitive MO active medium, such as the europium chalcogenide EuSe, and a fiber optic cw light delivery. Applications: The system could be used in optical fiber communication networks to increase performance and capacity for a given fiber network. Advantages: Today the Internet is served by Dense Wavelength Division Multip...

Microcavity Biosensor

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:34 GMT

Applications: This technology provides an optical technique to detect the molecular absorption of a biological material, such as DNA, proteins or pathogens. The sensor, built on a silicon wafer, is expected to enable the development of an integrated all-silicon bio-chip capable of simultaneously testing for a range of biological and organic molecules. A porous silicon microcavity resonator has a central active layer of porous silicon, with pore diameters of 50 to 75 nm, is flanked on both sides by porous silicon multi-layer mirrors, which act as Bragg reflectors to enhance and nar...

Manufacture of High Temperature Materials by Combustion Synthesis and Semi-Solid Forming

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:33 GMT

Brief Description: This technology is a low cost production method for manufacturing components of high temperature materials such as intermetallics, ceramics, and their composites. The materials and manufacturing method are most useful for the production of high temperature (>400oC) corrosion-resistant structural components and wear-resistant components. Applications: It has been used in the fabrication of Ni3Al and TiAl inter-metallic parts, which are expected to have applications in the automotive industry are engine valves, brake rotors, exhaust manifold, turb...

Ultrasound Distortion Compensation Using a "Blind System Identification" Method

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:32 GMT

Applications: This technology provides an increase in the resolution of ultrasound imaging by a new method of compensating for waveform aberration caused by muscle, fat and other tissue inhomogeneities. Advantages: Medical use of ultrasound for diagnostic imaging of the heart, abdomen and fetus is now limited by wave front distortion, caused by inhomogeneity within tissue, that degrades geometric focusing to yield images less than satisfactory for accurate diagnosis. Earlier attempts, using a single-phase screen method, compensate for time-shift distortion alone. Th...

Devices for Production of Inhomogeneously Polarized Optical Beams

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:30 GMT

Brief Description: This technology is a device which converts homogeneously polarized light into cylindrically polarized light, such as the radially polarized beam. Applications: Inhomogeneously polarized light can be used in dark field microscopy and in confocal microscopy to detect phase or gradient changes in materials, to enhance image contrast and edge resolution. It can be used in biomedical microscopy and in semiconductor device inspection. See related UR technologies 2-11150-03019 and 2-11150-05030. Advantages: The cylindrical vector beams can provide an alte...

An Objective Method to Determine the Ocular Refraction from Wavefront Aberration Data and to Design an Optimum Customized Correction of a Set of a Few Higher-Order Aberrations

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:29 GMT

Brief Description: This invention provides a method to compute the correction necessary to correct for abberations in an eye of a patient, using wavefront data. Applications: For the automated determination of an accurate, optimum refraction correction for spectacles or contact lenses, without requiring subjective input from the patient. It enables the use of advanced wavefront diagnostic technology for routine eye exams. The process will simplify and partially automate the work process in the retail optical environment of optometrists and dispensing ophthalmologist...

Applications of the R2 Protein as they Relate to Reverse Transcription

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:28 GMT

Applications: This technology provides a method for preparing nucleic acid molecules using a protein or polypeptide having reverse transcriptase activity. It is particularly useful for proteins which are encoded by non-long terminal repeat (non-TRW) retro-transposable elements. The method can enable the synthesis of relatively long cDNA strands without knowledge of the RNA sequence and without a specific primer. Reverse transcription is widely used in the biotech industry to apply the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique to RNA (RT-RNA). The reverse ...

Super-Conducting Single Photon Detector

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:26 GMT

Brief Description: A very fast, very sensitive single-photon, time-resolving detector for photons in wavelengths from the visible to the far infrared, using a super-conducting material. Applications: Single photon detectors may be used in systems for free space and satellite communications and studies of weak luminescence and semiconductor device testing. They may also be used in quantum cryptographic systems, which would support the most secure method of communication possible, guaranteed by the inviolability of the laws of quantum mechanics. Advantages: The princi...

Cladding-Assisted Single-Mode Fiber Coupler

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:25 GMT

Brief Description: This invention provides a means for coupling into or out of a single-mode fiber without a lens. Applications: For coupling single mode optical fibers, which are the standard medium upon which substantially all fiber optic communication systems are based. It can also be used for mid-link coupling for the inclusion of wavelength multiplexing, channel add-drop, noise suppression filters and the connection to non-wave-guide components, such as MEMS switches. Advantages: Coupling light into and out of a single-mode fiber can be expensive because of the high...

High Resolution Optical Imaging

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:24 GMT

Brief Description: A field-enhanced solid immersion lens technology can image features on the order of 10 nanometer. Applications: It is applicable for optical data storage, microscopy, and lithography for VLSI fabrication. Advantages: The technique increases the resolution of near field optical imaging by a factor of 2 to 5 beyond that achieved with a conventional solid immersion lens (SIL) by the use of a strongly enhanced electric field created by a sharp tip or particle and polarized illumination. Radial polarized laser light, with an electric field component perpendicular t...

Dispersion Compensation Using Long-Period Fiber Gratings

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:23 GMT

Brief Description: A transmissive, relatively compact, device with low loss for compensating for the chromatic dispersion of optical signals in a high bit rate fiber optic network. Applications: For use in optical network communication systems. Advantages: Chromatic dispersion, or the propagation of different frequency components of an optical signal at different velocities, is an increasingly important problem in high-bit-rate fiber-optic communication systems. Dispersion leads to broadening of the features in rapidly varying optical signals, and hence degradation of bit-error-rate i...

All Optical Flip Flop Using a Resonant-Type Semiconductor Optical Amplifier

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:22 GMT

Brief Description: This is a high speed, all-optical latching switch built from a DFB semiconductor laser used in a unique manner as an optical amplifier. Applications: The latching capability enables such optical communication network processes as bit-length conversion, data format change, de-multiplexing, packet header buffering and re-timing. The latching would typically be used to increase the bit length (increasing the energy in the pulse), while the device simultaneously performs a wavelength conversion to a pre-defined color. Optical communication networ...

Electrically Switchable Polymer Liquid Crystal PLC

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:21 GMT

Applications: This invention relates to optical devices in which electrically switchable particles suspended in fluid host medium are used in either active or passive devices with optical properties that can be manipulated and controlled by an electric field for use in information displays, shutters, switchable filters, etc. Advantages: Recently, considerable research effort has been focused on particle-based systems to fabricate large, flexible portable displays having high optical contrast and requiring low power for information display applications. These systems rely on moti...

Culturing Leukemia Cells in a Bio-Reactor for Drug Discovery and Diagnosis

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:20 GMT

Applications: The technololgy is for culturing leukemia cells in a chamber having a scaffolding surrounded with culture medium, useful for screening anti-leukemic drugs. It describes a three dimensional ex-vivo method for growing human leukemia cells and leukemic bone marrow. The three dimensional culture system provides the leukemic microenvironment. This technology can be used in the study of pathophysiology of leukemic states, understanding of disease's process, and screening potential therapeutics. The technique could also be used diagnostically to grow a patient's cel...

Rapid, Automatic Measurement of the Eye's Wave Aberration

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:18 GMT

Brief Description: A process for computing the aberrations of the eye in real time from wavefront measurements using a wavefront sensor such as a Hartmann-Shack detector. Applications: Real-time determination of the aberrations of the living human eye is necessary for high resolution imaging of the retina for diagnostic evaluation. This is necessary because the eye is constantly moving. Advantages: The aberrations of the eye can be determined at rates as high as 60 times a second. The algorithms can be run on a simple computer processor. Aberrations for d...

Glass-Forming Liquid Crystals with an Elevated Glass Transition Temperature

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:17 GMT

Brief Description: This technology covers a class of glass-forming liquid crystal (GLC) compositions for optical devices with outstanding mechanical properties for fabrication and durability and high glass transition temperature for long-term stability and environmental durability. Applications: Optical quality films prepared from these compositions demonstrate strong selective reflection and circular polarization, as well as circularly polarized photoluminescence. They can be used for high efficiency polarizers in flat panel displays, optical notch filters for laser protection, latchi...

Method of Determining Evolutionary Potential of Antibiotic Resistance Genes and Use to Screen for Drug Efficacy

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:16 GMT

Applications: Antibiotic resistance has enormous human and economic consequences. One major source of antibiotic resistance is modifications of antibiotic resistance genes in pathogens, which make the gene products more effective or allow the pathogens to function against new drugs. This technology describes a method for in vitro evolution experiments that facilitate prediction of how antibiotic resistance genes will naturally evolve to resist existing and new antibiotic drugs. The predicted mutated genes can then be used as targets for drug development, even before clinical resistance...

Optical System for Diffusing Light

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:15 GMT

Brief Description: The concept enables the design of both films and glass for the uniform diffusing of light with very high efficiency. Applications: The technique is applicable to many means of manufacture and for applications in lighting, skylights, light bulbs or fixtures, glass roofs, projection TV screens, displays and microfiche viewers. Advantages: The concept provides uniform diffusion of light with very high efficiency. It diffuses light uniformly over a wide angle using a cascade of diffractive and diffusing elements, with low loss. The diffractive element diffra...

Model for Simulating Tree Structured VLSI Interconnect

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:14 GMT

Brief Description; This invention offers an accurate method of simulating an RLC tree of an integrated circuit. It gives a method of evaluating time domain signals within an RLC tree in response to any input signals for VLSI circuits. Applications: This tool is for VLSI circuit design, where millions of circuit elements are placed on a single chip, to provide a fast and accurate computer simulation of the behavior of the circuit. Advantages: Since the interconnect delay dominates gate delay in current deep VLSI circuits, an accurate characterization of their behavior and signal trans...

Digital CMOS Voltage Interface Circuits

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:13 GMT

Brief Description: This digital CMOS voltage interface circuit transfers a digital signal between any two voltages, with minimal power dissipation. Applications: This voltage interface circuit is used in CMOS microprocessors which have portions of the chip running at different voltage levels. Advantages: When scaling a CMOS technology, the supply voltages are decreased to control electric field inside transistors and also to reduce dynamic power dissipation. This however reduces circuit speed. To overcome this drawback different power supplies are often used in modern microprocessors,...

Gene Encoding Short Integuments of Arabidopsis Thaliana

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:12 GMT

The present invention relates to the isolation and identification of a short integuments protein and the nucleic acid which encodes such protein. The invention also relates to an expression vector containing the encoding nucleic acid and methods whereby plant fertility, fecundity and flowering time are increased or decreased by transformation of plants with that nucleic acid or variants thereof. The present invention also relates to transgenic cells, plants, and seeds containing the short integuments gene of the present invention.

DNA Encoding the Human Heme-Regulated Initiation Factor 2.Alpha Kinase

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:11 GMT

Applications: The invention provides the DNA sequence of the human gene encoding the heme-regulated initiation factor 2-alpha kinase. It provides a method to inhibit cellular proliferation in humans, with application to cancer therapy. The method for inhibiting protein synthesis may be useful in inhibiting infection in human cells. This technology can be used in drug discovery to identify compounds, such as small molecules, which are HRI kinase inhibitors, and to develop assays to evaluate the catalytic activity of recombinant HRI kinase. Such drugs could include cancer...

Oligocycloalkanoid Compounds and Methods of Use

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:09 GMT

Applications: This invention relates to a class of oligocycloalkanoid compounds that have shown to bind Lipid A, the bacterial cause of Sepsis. The mimicry of polypeptide structure is a flourishing field from the fundamental standpoint and because of the potential utility of these compounds as pharmaceutical agents to treat retroviruses such as HIV. In this invention a series of beta-strand peptidomimetics based on a repeating cyclopentanoid structure have been synthesized. These compounds are potential protease inhibitors which may have pharmaceutical utility including the treatm...

Rigid Rod and Ladder Polymers, their Preparation and Application to Light Emitting Devices

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:08 GMT

Brief Description: This invention describes a new class of rigid rod and ladder polymers which are capable of emitting light on the application of an electric field. Applications: The materials can be used for light emitting diodes. Advantages: The polymeric materials described in this invention are advantageous over previous compounds since they can be more easily synthesized, can readily form very durable films and are thus less costly when processed into OLED devices. Their structural integrity provides them with greater stability as compared to non-polymeric compounds previously p...

Dithered-Edge Sampling (DES) of Terahertz Beams: Ultra-Wideband Detection Using Slow Photocoinduced Receivers

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:07 GMT

Brief Description: Dithered-edge sampling (DES) enables ultra-wideband measurement of far infrared terahertz pulses using photoconductive antennas. Applications: A method for making temporal measurements of ultra-short far infrared optical pulses in the tetrahertz range (with pulse widths in the 100 femtosecond range). Such lasers are used in research in physics, chemistry, biology, materials science and medicine and can be used for terahertz camera arrays. Advantages: The use of a separate gate and receiver decouples the sensitivity and bandwidth of the detection system, enabling the...

A High Precision CMOS Current Mirror / Divider

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:06 GMT

Brief Description: This is a current mirror circuit that provides very high precision and a wide range of current divisions. Applications: This current mirror circuit is useful in analog and mixed-signal integrated circuits, such as high accuracy A/D and D/A converters, reference cells, and high current comparators. Advantages: Current mirror circuits, common to analog and mixed-signal circuits offer wide bandwidth and have been developed in bipolar, MOS and BiCMOS technologies. Improvements in their designs have been numerous, each enhancement aimed at specific problems and its appli...

Digital Buffer Circuits

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:05 GMT

Brief Description: The invention relates to high speed CMOS buffer circuits for transmitting data signals and large capacitive loads from the input to the output of a buffer. Applications: This invention is especially useful in digital integrated circuits with high speed CMOS buffer circuits capable of driving large capacitive loads, restoring slow transitioning digital signals, or driving highly resistive RC interconnects lines. Advantages: CMOS technology is conventionally used to implement digital integrated circuits. Often CMOS circuits drive large capacitive loads. Such capaci...

Ultra-Short Optical Pulse Measurement Using a Spectral Shearing Interferometer

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:04 GMT

Brief Description: Amplitude and phase of ultrashort replica pulses are determined by spectral phase interferometry for direct electric field reconstruction by frequency shifting chirp replica pulses of an optical pulse to be measured. Applications: For measuring ultashort optical pulses (less than 100 picoseconds) in such applications as two-photon and confocal microscopy, lidar, medical diagnostics coherence tomography and ultra-high speed optical communications. Advantages: The spectral shearing interferometer technique provides accurate measurements in a device whi...

Annealing and Coating of Light-Emitting Porous Silicon

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:01 GMT

Brief Description: A method of producing light-emitting porous silicon light-emitting diode including forming a porous silicon p+ layer in a p-type silicon wafer, annealing the wafer at 800-950 degree. C. in an atmosphere of inert gas and 1-25% oxygen, depositing a polycrystalline silicon film on the porous silicon layer, and n+ doping a portion of the polycrystalline silicon film. Applications: For use in building a light-emitting device (LED) for use in chip-to-chip and on-chip interconnections. Advantages: Stable electroluminescence is achieved in a process in which the LED is...

Conjugated Polymer Exciplexes and their Application to Optoelectrical Devices

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Brief Description: These compositions of matter are mixtures of Pi-conjugated polymers and an electron donor or acceptor molecule form an exciplex to provide enhanced luminescence and photogeneration of charged carriers with increased quantum efficiency, Applications: Such compositions can be used in optoelectronic devices in such applications as light emitting diodes or photoconductive devices. Advantages: These mixtures of polymeric materials form excited state exciplexes which dissociate to ground molecular state with high efficiency and emit radiation. As ...

Coherence Filters

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:59 GMT

Brief Description: Spatial coherence spectral filters change the spectral degree of coherence of the transmitted light. Consequently the spectrum of the light generated by the source may change significantly on propagation, even in free space. Applications: The coherence filters may be used in spectroscopy for the spatial separation of neighboring spectral lines and in astronomy in the search for particular spectral lines, in a way not possible with conventional spectral filters. They can also be used in optical signal processing for spectrum-selective optical inter...

WebWork, the Math and Science Problem Homework Internet Solution

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:58 GMT

Brief Description: A web-based educational service for rendering and checking complex math and science problems. See http://www.webwork.math.rochester.edu/. Applications: For calculus and related mathematics, physics and chemistry courses in colleges and high school. Advantages: Every homework problem is graded automatically with immediate feedback to the student, even in complex algebraic formulation. Problem sets are individualized for each student, to enable discussion among students, without simple copying of answers Library of over 20,000 questions to be selected by the te...

Diffractive Singlet Lens

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:56 GMT

Brief Description: A diffractive imaging lens design corrected for coma, astigmatism, field curvature, and spherical aberration. Applications: The lens can be used for imaging or for laser scanning. Advantages: The single element provides proformance equal to more complicated conventional optical systems, at lower cost and lower weight. The diffractive lens also has less reflective loss than an equivalent refractive system. The lens design has a diffractive optical element and an aperture stop, which is remote from the lens in the direction of the object to b...

Composite Materials for Non-Linear Optics

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:55 GMT

Brief Description: A method for producing optical materials with a large non-linear susceptibility by doping with non-absorbing inclusion nano-particles. Applications: These materials produce nonlinear optical interactions, including harmonic generation, such as doubling and tripling of the frequency of the incident radiation, mixing of two beams for sum-frequency generation and difference-frequency generation, optical parametric oscillation, nonlinear or saturable absorption and photonic (including electro-optic effect dependent processes). Advantages: The process can produce materials with...

Low Melt Viscosity Glass-Forming Liquid Crystal

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:54 GMT

Brief Description: This material is a glassy thermotropic chiral nematic liquid crystalline composition with low molar mass, which is used for forming optical devices with clear transparent films that selectively reflect visible and near-infrared circular-polarized light, but do not absorb light in the visible region. Applications: This material can be used in circular polarizing filters, selective reflectors, beam splitters, beam apodizers or notch filters. Advantages: Currently, low molecular weight liquid crystal materials have many limitations including durability, effective tempe...

Video Compression System Using a Dense Motion Vector Field and a Triangular Patch Mesh Overlay Model

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:51 GMT

Brief Description: Data compression of digital video by determining the spatial and temporal image gradients and the pixel-to-pixel motion vectors (dense motion vectors) between two consecutive image frames using a shape-adaptive triangular patch mesh model overlay. Applications: This video compression can be used for video-conferencing and mobile video communications Advantages: The compression is fast and uses scene-independent mesh generation and a non-overlapping motion estimation algorithm for superior motion compensation. Failure regions are identified and are revised in ac...

The Butterfly Search for Velocity Estimation

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:49 GMT

Applications: The butterfly search is a method to determine blood flow velocity using ultrasound. Advantages: In order to avoid the use of complex transform and correlation techniques for estimating the velocity of a target from which ultrasonic RF bursts are received as return echoes, the time of occurrence of successive returns are compared with the delay trajectories each representing a different target velocity. The trajectory with which the returns match with minimum variance, or maximum likelihood of being in time coincidence, provides an estimate of the velocity of the target. The sea...

Glassy Chiral Nematic Polymers

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:48 GMT

Brief Description: These materials are glassy thermotropic chiral nematic liquid crystalline compositions with low molar mass which form clear transparent films that absorb no light in the visible region but do selectively reflect visible and near-infrared circular-polarized light. These glassy thermotropic chiral nematic liquid crystalline compositions have a cycloaliphatic radical to which a nematogenic moiety and a chiral moiety are attached. Applications: These materials can be used in a variety of applications such as circular polarizing filters, selective reflectors, beam s...

Phantoms for Calibrating Ultrasound Imaging Systems

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:47 GMT

Applications: The phantoms are thin film structures used for calibrating ultrasound systems to assure the quality of the images. Advantages: Phantoms for testing and measuring the performance of ultrasonic imaging systems must have regions of precisely controlled scattering or echogenicity. The regions are precisely positioned to define patterns which form images to evaluate the performance of the ultrasonic imaging system. These phantoms reveal the modulation transfer function and resolution limits, as well as other artifacts and defects in the system such as aliasing and degrad...

Hybrid Diffractive Refractive Lens

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:46 GMT

Brief Description: This diffractive/refractive hybrid lens has a refractive element defined by plano-convex surfaces and a diffractive element defined by a Fresnel zone-like pattern on the plano surface which together provide the total power of the lens. Applications: The lens is intended for use in optical data storage or recording systems which use a laser diode to write and read data on an optical storage medium such as an optical disk. Advantages: This lens is smaller and lighter than a conventional refractive lens systems used in optic data storage. The refractive l...

Method for Measuring Pulse Phase and Intensity and Optical Properties of Materials

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:45 GMT

Brief Description: The intensity and phase of ultrashort light pulses are measured using a non-linear optical medium and a frequency-resolved optical grating (FROG). Applications: The technique may be used to measure ultra-short laser pulses, shorter than a femto-second, and also to measure optical properties of materials. Both "instantaneously" and "non-instantaneously" responding optical mediums may be used. Advantages: The technique provides intensity and phase characterization of the pulse. It works in the infrared, visible and ultraviolet.

Spoken Language Computer Interface Library

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:44 GMT

Brief Description: This is a software library that contains a set of programs for intuitive language-based computer interfaces in limited domains. Applications: The concept could be used for spoken language interfaces for computers or telephone-based automated services. Advantages: The interaction is based on intention recognition and uses the conversational context to overcome speech recognition errors.

F-Theta Lens with Diffractive Optical Elements

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:42 GMT

Brief Description: An improved optical system having diffractive optic elements for scanning a laser beam. Applications: For scanning laser systems such as those in a laser printer. Advantages: This optical system includes a laser source for emitting a laser beam, a deflector, such as a rotating polygonal mirror, intersects the first path and translates the beam into a scanning beam which moves along a second path in a scan plane. The lens system (F-theta lens) in the second path has first and second elements for focusing the scanning beam onto an image plane transverse to...

Improving Vision and the Resolution of Retinal Images by Measuring and Correcting the Wave Aberration of the Eye

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:41 GMT

Brief Description: This describes the use of wavefront measurement and adaptive optics to correct all the aberrations of the human eye. Applications: Wavefront measurement of all the aberrations in the human eye can make possible correction of vision which goes beyond conventional spectacles and contact lenses. This correction of higher order aberrations can be applied in custom laser refractive surgery, intraocular lenses and improved custom c contact lenses. In addition, the measurement and correction of aberrations improves the quality of retinal imaging, used to diagnos...

A Novel Drug Target for Lupus Treatment

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:40 GMT

Applications: B cells plays a central role in Lupus. Alteration in the expression of genes that regulate B cells survival could lead to the development of autoimmune disease such as Lupus. The invention identifies a novel molecule whose down-regulation causes autoreactive B cell death. The invention provides a potential therapy for autoimmune diseases such as lupus. Advantages: B cell directed therapies represent promising treatment for autoimmune disorders. Current B cell directed therapies target antigens on the surface of all mature B cells. The invention specifically suppresses t...

Mice Carrying Null or Conditional Mutations in the Bambi Gene

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:37 GMT

Applications: The Bambi gene encodes an inhibitory pseudoreceptor for the Bmp/TGF-beta super-family of signaling molecules. The Bambi mutant mice will be useful for research and drug development for cardiovascular and musculoskeletal diseases, stem cell biology and cancer biology, liver function and homeostasis, immune system modulation, etc. Advantages: This is the first reported mutant mouse strain with mutation in the Bambi gene. Moreover, the mouse was generated with a conditioned mutation and allows cell type specific and development time specific inactivation of the gene...

Prohibition Coding Scheme Manual - Revised

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:36 GMT

Applications: This is a behavioral observational instrument in the form of a manual for use in recording maternal and toddler behaviors during limit setting interactions. It provides the definitions and parameters of specific behaviors to be observed and methods of pattern recognition and classification. Advantages: Children are classified on the basis of their autonomy and ability to respond to their mother'sbehaviors, initiations and prohibitions. It is expected that the classifications reflect the extent to which a child is internalizing external controls and strategies for contro...

Med Schedule - A Web-based Software Solution for Nursing Staff Schedule Management

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:33 GMT

Applications: Med Schedule is a completely secure web-based software solution for nursing staff scheduling and management designed to handle the complex scheduling issues in a hospital environment. The scheduling process embodied in Med Schedule has three phases: 1. Initial Self schedule: The employee can enter preferred schedule and preferences within customizable parameters 2. Second self schedule: Employees can move themselves heavy staffed days to lightly staffed days of their choice. 3. System Administrator Juggle: Administrator does the final juggle of the staf...

The Ontology Mapper

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:30 GMT

Applications: This is a Clinical Translational Science Institute (CTSI) collaborative project between developers at UCSF, UPenn and Rochester that involves a software component that can translate data between any two encodings so that data can be repurposed and reinterpreted in novel ways. This application has direct application to the semantic web. Advantages: This invention does away with semantic modelling and and instead identifies the relations between data by using a knowledge management framework called the Ontology of Mapping Relations. This involves the specific invention of ...

Thermo-Active SIV Reverse Transcriptase

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:28 GMT

Applications: The laboratories of Dr. Baek Kim have previously reported that reverse transcriptase (RT) activity becomes less error prone running reactions at 55 degrees C as opposed to 37 degrees C. In order to apply a high thermal reaction condition, RTs that are heat stable or RTs that have higher activity at high temperatures are required. Dr. Kim has discovered and characterized a heat stable reverse transcriptase enzyme that can work efficiently at high reaction temperatures. Advantages: Dr. Kim's simian derived heat stable reverse transcriptase has exhibited robust ...

Methods of Treating Inflammatory Bowel Disease or Celiac Disease and Managing Systems Thereof

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:24 GMT

Applications: AvrA has been recently shown to play an important role in bacteria survive in the host and dampen the inflammatory response. This invention provides a method utilizing AvrA as a novel treatment to treat inflammatory bowel disease or celiac disease. Advantages: Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium is a major cause of human gastroenteritis. Infection of polarized epithelial cell monolayers by S. Typhimurium disrupts tight junction (TJ) structure and function. TJ disruption is dependent on the type III secretory system (TTSS) of Salmonella. AvrA is a newly d...

A Small FGF Peptide with Multiple Functions

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:20 GMT

Applications: The peptide can mitigate the acute radiation syndrome and side-effect of chemotherapy, including symptoms of bone marrow and gastrointestinal. The peptides could also replace key stimulatory factors such as IL-6 required for bone marrow stem cell regeneration. Advantages: The peptide is stable and resistant to peptidase, has a longer shelf life and is easy to administrate.

Risk Stratification of Genetic Disease Using Scoring of Amino Acids Conservation in Families of Proteins

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:17 GMT

Applications: This is a genetic method of accurately identifying the clinical risk of patients with genetic mutations or polymorphisms using information from protein and DNA structure. This method of risk stratification has applicability in predicting the severity of the clinical course of disease in a spectrum of conditions in which there is a genetic underpinning. Advantages: This method improves on the clinical risk stratification of cardiac patients as an example but may be applicable to other diseases. It has shown to significantly improve the identification of clinical...

PSA as a New Therapeutic Target for Prostate Cancer

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:15 GMT

Applications: Although the best biomarker for prostate cancer, the pathophysiologic roles of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) remain are not clear This technology describes how tissue PSA may be involved in the hormone-refractory prostate cancer progression. Histologic analyses show that the increased tissue PSA levels are correlated with higher cell proliferation rate in hormone-refractory tumor specimens. The inventors also found that PSA could promote the growth of androgen receptor (AR)-positive and hormone-refractory prostate cancer cells, but not in A...

Needle Shade

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:05 GMT

Applications: This invention relates to relieving the apprehension and anxiety associated with the sight of a needle piercing the skin during self-injection of medication. Due to this fear and hesitation, compliance with a medication therapy would also be adversely affected. Advantages: The present invention provides a means to obscure the intimidating sight of a needle piercing one’s skin/flesh while self-injecting with a required medication. Level of compliance with a therapy would also increase with the use of this simple device.

Compounds Enhancing Platelet Production

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:59:02 GMT

Applications: The invention identifies novel compounds that enhance platelet production in cases where platelet number is low, such as after ionizing radiation exposure, chemotherapy, and autoimmunity. Advantages: Existing therapy such as TPO (thrombopoietin) only enhances production of megakaryocytes but does not directly enhance the production of platelets.

Method for Monitoring Photodynamic Therapy and Related Instrumentation

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:52 GMT

Applications: Immediate applications of this invention include monitoring and delivering photodynamic therapy (PDT) and PDT dosimetry. Advantages: One aspect of this invention involves photodynamic therapy with multiple irradiance and is already being used in clinical application at Roswell Park Cancer Institute to deliver pain-free, efficient PDT of basal cell carcinoma. This involves the delivery of light according to a predetermined recipe or protocol. Another aspect of the invention relates to "adjustable constant irradiance" PDT which constricts the area of irradiation using...

Pharmacologic Enhancement of Bacteriophage-Mediated Gene Transfer and Plasmid DNA-Mediated Gene Transfer in Mammalian Cells

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:46 GMT

Applications: This technology proposes enhancing both bacteriophage-mediated gene transfer and plasmid DNA-mediated gene transfer in mammalian cells using pharmacological agents. This is applicable for vaccines as well as other gene transfer needs and as a research tool in the laboratory. Advantages: These methods are advantageous as they enhance the gene activity achieved with bacteriopage-mediated or plasmid DNA-mediated delivery alone. More efficient gene transfer is possible by co-deliver agents that inhibit the proteosome or endosome acidification and by disrupting cel...

Recombinant Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) for the Treatment or Prevention of Acute Lung Injury and Death in Severe Pulmonary Infection

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:44 GMT

Applications: This invention offers an innovative and effective therapeutic agent-recombinant plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (rPAI-1)-for the treatment or prevention of acute lung injury and death in severe pulmonary infection of Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae). The local application of rPAI-1 or small peptide sequence of this molecule into an infected patient’s airway would be a promising defense against the ravages of the disease. Advantages: S. pneumoniae is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite the widespread use of antibiotics, the mo...

Human KC-NL Crosstalk Subversion by HCV

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:42 GMT

Applications: The invention has developed an in vitro culture system based on the isolation of human Kupffer cells (KC) and natural Killer Cells (NK) from the donated liver grafts. The model can be used for the identification of drug targets of viral hepatitis, and for testing drugs and biologics. Advantages: The model uses human cells directly from the liver.

Inflammatory Condition Progression, Diagnosis, and Treatment Monitoring Methods, Systems, Apparatus, and Uses

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:41 GMT

Applications: While erosion and tissue necrosis are the end-stage result of inflammatory arthritis, factors that can predict their initiation and severity are unknown. The invention uses contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (CE-MRI) and in vivo microfocal computed tomography (micro-CT) to develop longitudinal 3-dimentional (3-D) measures of outcomes of inflammation and bone erosion in arthritis. Our research indicates a protective function of enhanced lymphatic drainage in inflammatory arthritis. Advantages: In vivo CE-MRI and micro-CT 3-d outcome measures are powerful tools t...

Protein Kinase C-Associated Kinase PKK is Required for NF-kB Signaling and Survival in Diffuse Large-B Cell Lymphoma Cells

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:38 GMT

Applications: This invention provides a novel drug target for the treatment of B-cell lymphoma. NFkB plays an important role in the proliferation and the survival of many types of B lymphoma cells. Inhibition of the novel target will lead to inactivation of transcript factor NFkB in specific cell targets and cause certain types of B lymphoma cells death, providing a potential therapy for certain B lymphoma patients. Advantages: CHOP plus Rituximab (antiCD20) chemotherapy is currently used for the treatment of Diffuse Large B cell Lymphoma. Rituxinab treatment can on...

Identification of a Novel Stem Cell Marker

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:37 GMT

Applications: The invention identifies a Novel Stem Cell Marker Gpr177, a G Protein-coupled Receptor. Gpr177 is a useful marker in the identification, isolation and characterization of specific stem cell population, including neural stem cells in specific regions of the brain and spinal cord, and cancer stem cells as well. Advantages: The Gpr177-expressing stem cells have potential for the treatment of the brain and spinal cord injuries, the neuromuscular malfunction, and the learning and memory disorders. Because Gpr177 presents in unglycosylated and glycosylated forms, it is also ...

Mouse Model of Chronic Viral Hepatitis

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:36 GMT

Applications: The invention generates a novel mouse model of acute and chronic T cell mediated hepatitis, which shares some important features with viral hepatitis in man. The mouse model is valuable in identifying drug targets for viral hepatitis. Advantages: The mouse model is driven directly by CD8+ T cell and results from the recognition of an antigen that is expressed in a minority of hepatocytes. The mouse model does not depend on transgenic expression of the antigen and is not complicated by immune self-tolerance. The model results in the induction of genes associated with li...

Novel Curcumin Derivatives and their Pharmaceutical Uses Thereof

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:34 GMT

Applications: The invention identifies novel curcumin derivatives that can mitigate radiation toxicity. The derivatives protects against gastrointestinal syndrome when given after irradiation. They are anti-oxidants and have a low toxicity profile. They can be applied to military personnel and rescue workers in case a radiation accident or nuclear event. Advantages: There is no other mitigator of gastrointestinal syndrome after irradiation. The invention identifies a novel radiation mitigator.

Novel Radiation Protectants

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:32 GMT

Applications: The invention identifies novel agents that can mitigate radiation toxicity. The agents protects against gastrointestinal syndrome when given after irradiation. They can be applied to military personnel and rescue workers in case a radiation accident or nuclear event. Advantages: There is no other mitigator of gastrointestinal syndrome after irradiation. The invention identifies novel radiation protectants.

Novel Intra-Ocular Pressure Regulating Device

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:30 GMT

Applications: The current invention proposes a novel intra-ocular pressure regulating device to aid in current glaucoma research and to treat human eye conditions such as hypotony (low eye pressure) which when chronic, can lead to debilitating loss of vision. This is based on a novel eye pressure regulated animal model of reversible elevated eye pressure to mimic human glaucoma. Advantages: Current animal models of glaucoma such as those induced in monkeys utilizing laser application to the outflow pathway to destroy it in an effort to raise intra-ocular pressure are not reproduc...

A Training Curriculum for Mental Health and Spiritual Care Professionals in Healthcare Settings

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:26 GMT

Brief Description: This is a set of disaster behavioral health training materials for health and non-healthcare workers (Tech IDs: 6-1583-86). Applications: The materials will be used to train behavioral health, spiritual care and other community helpers to respond to the needs of individuals impacted by disasters and public health emergencies. It can be utilized by state and local health and mental health agencies and other disaster response organizations to train their personnel. Advantages: The materials provide trainees with the basic knowledge and skills in executing an appropr...

A Training Curriculum for Mental Health and Spiritual Care Professionals in Healthcare Settings

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:24 GMT

A Training Curriculum for Mental Health and Spiritual Care Professionals in Healthcare Settings

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:23 GMT

A Training Curriculum for Mental Health and Spiritual Care Professionals in Healthcare Settings

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:22 GMT

Feedback-Controlled Method for Delivering Photodynamic Therapy and Related Instrumentation

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:21 GMT

Applications: This invention describes a feedback controlled method and instrumentation for photodynamic therapy (PDT) delivery. It may be applied in clinical optimization of PDT to improve efficacy while minimizing treatment time in the clinic. Advantages: Feedback in the form of fluorescence spectra enables continuous monitoring of dosage levels to improve efficacy, reduce or eliminate pain associated with therapy, and to alleviate or eliminate the need for anesthetics or continuous sedation of patients undergoing PDT. Reduction of pain will likely make PDT more fea...

A Rapid and Sensitive Method for the Toxicological Evaluation of Chemotherapeutic Agents and Environmental Toxicants, and for the Development of Protective Treatments of Such Toxicities

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:09 GMT

Applications: This invention provides a novel molecular pathway that is operative in the disruption of normal precursor cell function by multiple environmental toxicants and chemotherapeutic agents. Although these toxicants and chemotherapeutic agents have diverse structural and chemical properties, they appear to converge on this pathway by shifting the cellular red-ox balance, which in-turn causes a shift in the balance of proliferation and differentiation of precursor cells that can then lead to long-term toxicities and developmental abnormalities. Such adverse effec...

An Innovative Method to Expand Hematopoietic Stem Cells

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:05 GMT

Applications: The invention develops a method to expand hematopoietic stem cells in situations where donor’s stem cells are insufficient. It can be used for cord blood expansion, and to stimulate the bone marrow microenvironment and to increase blood cells in bone marrow failure conditions. Advantages: Currently there are medications to stimulate differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells, but there is no clinically available method to expand the stem cells. The invention utilizes a pharmacological product to stimulate the stems and their environment to increase their number, without...

Tripodal Receptors for Carbohydrates Based on Cyclohexane

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:04 GMT

Applications: Carbohydrates represent a particularly enticing and important challenge to the organic chemist interested in molecular recognition. In addition to their role in addressing the fundamental problem of understanding binding and selectivity, novel carbohydrate receptors have significant potential as tools in the rapidly evolving field of glycomics, as components of sensing systems for isolated sugar and for pathogens, and as leads for the development of new therapeutic agents. The invention identifies a small molecule that binds carbohydrates with high affinity via non-covale...

Pen-Sized, Hand-Held Ocular Fundus Camera

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:58:00 GMT

Applications: The present invention relates to a low magnification, large field of view,non-mydriatic fundus camera used in screening for eye disease. Advantages: Screening for eye disease has become increasingly important as the population ages in the United States and around the world. The major causes of irreversible blindness include diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Standard screening measures such as visual acuity testing and even intraocular pressure measurement are inadequate since these tests identify patients only late in the disease proce...

Compounds Increasing Melanin in Human Health

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:59 GMT

Applications: Small-molecule compounds which can induce melanin expression in melanocytes, increase melanin content of keratinocytes, and increase skin pigmentation within a treated area of the skin have been developed. These compounds are useful in treating skin conditions where insufficient skin pigmentation is produced, or where the subject, for cosmetic purposes, simply wishes to develop a “sunless tan” or to augment tanning induced by a limited exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet light. More importantly, these compounds actually produce additional melanin in the skin, a...

RNA-Targeted Small Molecules as Potential Inhibitors of Ribosomal Frameshifting

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:57 GMT

Applications: A high error rate of HIV -I reverse transcriptase coupled with a fast replication cycle associated with HIV -1 favors rapid development and selection of drug resistant strains. Therefore, identification of small molecules capable of inhibiting viral components necessary for HIV -1 proliferation continues to be of great importance. The full length HIV mRNA encodes two polyprotein precursors, Gag and Pol. While derived from the same mRNA, the Pol polyprotein, which is always produced as a Gag-Pol fusion protein, is only translated 5-10% of the time. This efficiency has...

Protein Displacement Therapy for Myotonic Dystrophy

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:56 GMT

Applications: Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is the most prevalent form of muscular dystrophy and is associated with progressive disability and premature death. Recent findings indicate that DM1 involves a novel RNA-mediated disease mechanism. The invention developed cell-based assays and biochemical assays to screen compounds that can stop disease progession. Advantages: Presently there is no treatment that reverses the muscle wasting and weakness in patients with DM1, or that slows the disease progression. The invention provides methods to screen compounds that target RNA rather ...

Tracking and Analysis of the Trajectory of a Transmitting Node in a Wireless Network

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:53 GMT

Applications: This invention is related to the tracking and analysis of the trajectory of a wireless node in a transmitting network. The algorithm collects a longitudinal record of motion of a transmitting node in a wireless network, and subsection location of the node. Applications involve the monitoring of subjects in a home or other well defined environment. Advantages: Node location algorithms usually involve some calibration procedure which establishes the relationship between radio frequency transmission characteristics of a transmission node and the transmission distance, parti...

Antigen Release Beads for a Quantitatve ELISPOT or FLORISPOT Assay

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:48 GMT

Applications: This research has developed a method to quantify the specific amount of antigen released by cells in an ELISPOT assay. Advantages: Currently, an ELISPOT assay can only quantify the number of cells producing a particular antigen. This technology allows the user to create a standard curve for antigen release and determine the actual amount of antigen released by the cells.

Reagents Identifying PPARγ Isoforms

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:37 GMT

Applications: Reagents can be used for commercial western blot/ELISA/Flow Cytometry. Advantages: Currently there are no proven reagents that distinguish PPAR gamma isoforms.

Side Firing Linear Fiber Optic Array for Interstitial Optical Therapy and Monitoring Using Compact Helical Geometry and Related Methods

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:36 GMT

Applications: The present invention is an interstitial optical probe that incorporates a side-firing linear fiber optic array using compact helical geometry. The device can determine optical properties of tissue through a catheter or needle and has applications in improved delivery and simultaneous dose monitoring of photodynamic therapy. Advantages: The uniqueness of this invention is its compact geometry possible for a plurality of optical fibers, allowing a linear array to be utilized with a needle-based probe. One current solution to obtaining needle-based spatially res...

Combined HPV in situ Hybridzation and Papanicolaou Staining for Cervical Cytology Screening

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:34 GMT

Applications: The invention describes a method that improves the current method of screening cervical samples. The approach would be to combine HPV testing and cytological evaluation on the same cervical cell specimen. This method would utilize in situ hybridization for the detection of specific HPV strains with the Papanicolaou stain which will allow for visual examination of HPV positive cells. In addition, this method describes the use of an automated image analyzer to enhance the screening of cervical samples Advantages: The idea to combine more than one diagnos...

Targeted Pre-mRNA/mRNA Modification and Gene Regulation

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:27 GMT

Applications: This technology describes a novel approach to silencing gene expression by interfering with the processing of its mRNA transcript. Advantages: This method is advantageous over more traditional methods such as iRNA, because it can be used to silence specific alternatively spliced variants of the gene. This is particularly advantageous relative to the development of human therapeutics as it is believed 50% of human transcripts are alternatively spliced.

Provider Portal/Web Bed Board

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:24 GMT

Applications: The ‘Web Bed Board’ system was developed by the Division of Medical Informatics and the URMC Information Systems Division to manage the facets of the SMH and HH patient census. The ‘web bed board,’ is an application within the URMC Provider Portal, replacing the legacy magnetic census board that had occupied the SMH admitting office. The Admission/Discharge/Transfer and other results are fed in real time into the Clinical Data Repository where it can be viewed by URMC providers and staff. Advantages: This invention improves upon the prior method of organizati...

Polyketal Nanoparticles (PKNs): a Novel Macrophage-Selective Drug-Delivery System

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:23 GMT

Applications: Polykeltal nanoparticles (PKNs) represent a novel and effective drug delivery vehicle, which appear to target macrophages selectively. Currently, PKNs can be used to incorporate any lipophilic pharmaceutical or lipophilic peptide. Inventors are now working on adapting the reverse-phase emulsion technique which will allow for the incorporation of hydrophilic compounds including nucleic acids and siRNA. PKNs represent a prime drug delivery vehicle for conditions, like shock syndrome, in which macrophage activation plays an important role in the pathophysiology. Advant...

Control of Immunodominance in T-Cell Immune Responses to Antigen by Manipulation of the Kinetic Stability of Peptide: MHC Complexes

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:21 GMT

Applications: This invention uncovered a principle that can be used in vaccine design for those pathogens that are subject to rapid genetic changes, such as influenza or HIV. This invention provides a method to design vaccines focusing on the immune response against regions of the pathogens that do not readily mutate. Advantages: This invention presents a superior method to promote immunity by manipulating immunodominance in immune responses other than manipulating other aspects of antigens or pathogens. Researchers have identified a key parameter that controls the potency of a peptid...

Kcnn4 Knockout Mouse

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:19 GMT

Applications: The Kcnn4 Knockout Mouse model will be helpful for developing treatment for sickle cell anemia and diarrhea. Advantages: Kcnn4 Knockout Mouse model can be used for testing function, related genetic diseases and treatment related to the Kcnn4 gene.

Compositions and Methods for Treating Bone and Neuroinflammatory Diseases and Disorders

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:17 GMT

Applications: Disclosed are compositions and methods that can be used in the treatment of bone disorders and diseases and disorders caused, exacerbated, or otherwise affected by inflammation.

Human Biliverdin Reductase is a New Member of the Insulin Receptor Substrate Family with Serine/Threonine/Tyrosine Kinase Activity

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:15 GMT

Applications: Human biliverdin reductase (BVR) is an evolutionary conserved soluble enzyme that was originally characterized in the context of its reductase activity (conversion of biliverdin to bilirubin) and more recently shown to possess serine/threonine/tyrosine kinase activity. The present work demonstrates that this dual kinase activity of BVR may play a role in the insulin signaling pathway. First, BVR acts as a substrate for insulin receptor (IR) tyrosine kinase activity and subsequent activation of BVR is thought to block insulin mediated glucose uptake. In additio...

Anti-Inflammatory Therapies for Neurodegenerative Brain Disorders

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:13 GMT

Applications: The invention develops viral vectors that express anti-inflammatory genes (IL1-RA) for the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative brain diseases, including but not limited to Alzheimer’s, ALS, and Parkinson’s Disease. The feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) (IL1-RA) vectors would be administered systemically and transduce peripheral immune cells which will enter into the brain and subsequently engraft and secrete IL1-RA. IL1-RA is decoy receptor for IL1a and IL1ß that is expected to reduce inflammation and prevent neurodegeneration irrespective of the u...

Anti-Inflammatory Therapies for Arthritis

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:12 GMT

Applications: Disclosed are methods of treating inflammatory disease arthritis using feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) vector constructs that express 1) small inhibitory RNA (siRNA) for cyclooxygenase COX-1 and COX-2 to inhibit prostaglandins production and 2) interleukin1 receptor antagonist (IL1-RA) to inhibit IL1 inflammatory signaling pathway. Advantages: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely prescribed for arthritis but are limited by the risk of adverse effects, especially gastrointestinal and renal toxicity. The therapeutic effects of these agents are ...

Pediatric Blood Pressure Screening Wheel

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:06 GMT

Applications: This is a copyrighted screening wheel with potential for widespread use in screening for high blood pressure in children. Advantages: The current method for determining if a child has elevated blood pressure is very cumbersome. It involves plotting a height percentile on a CDC growth chart and then looking at a complicated table for the systolic and diastolic blood pressure that corresponds with the percentile. The physician then has to recognize that less than 90% is normal and greater than 95% is elevated. This tool allows for easy determination of bl...

A Model to Study the Role of IL-1β in Neurodegeneration and Brain Injury

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:05 GMT

Applications: A novel transgenic mouse model was created to investigate the role of IL1ß in neurodegeration and brain injury. This model may also be used to test existing and novel drugs and therapies for suppression of neuroinflammation associated with brain disorders. Advantages: Creation of conditionally expressed IL1ß and IL-1A (receptor antagonist) mice provides an important tool for dissection of the role of IL-1 in brain and newrodegeration.

The Role of IL-1B in the Development of Arthritis and Temporomandibular Joint Disorders

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:01 GMT

Applications: The invention offers a novel transgenic IL1-ß somatic mosaic mouse model, allowing local constitutive expression of IL1-ß. The model will be utilized to investigate the role of IL1-ß in the development of arthritis. Moreover, this mouse model will be employed to test existing and novel drugs and therapies for arthritis and temporomandibular joint disorders. The model is also useful for the study of the role of peripheral chronic inflammation in the development of neurodegenerative disorders. Advantages: There is little information available about the ro...

Image Denoising Based on Multiscale Singularity Detection for Cone Beam CT Breast Imaging

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:56:57 GMT

Applications: The present invention is an efficient denoising algorithm with the ability to reduce x-ray exposure levels from a scan in order to acquire acceptable image quality. The algorithm utlizes wavelet based methods to achieve both high signal to noise ratio and good image quality with edges preserved. It has been implemented for cone beam CT imaging of the breast but is applicable to other imaging modalities as well. Advantages: The technology reduces the x-ray exposure level required by a general scan, while still producing acceptable image quality.

Mouse Model of Osteoarthritis: Over-Expression of Smurf2 in Cartilage to Induce Disease and Over-expression of Smurf1 as a Potential Therapeutic Strategy

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:56:54 GMT

Applications: We have generated col2-promoter-Smad ubiquitin regulatory factor2 (col2-Smurf2) transgenic mice which possess a loss of TGFß signaling and display each of above characteristics, thus displaying a phenotype more representative of the disease process. Furthermore, the over-expression of Smurf2 in cartilage that has been induced in these mice correlates with the increased Smurf2 expression that is seen in osteoarthritic cartilage tissue harvested from patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty due to osteoarthritis. Advantages: This col2-Smurf2 mouse model may presen...

Recombinant GST-Tagged Vitronectin Can Be Used as a Cell-Culture Substratum

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:56:52 GMT

Applications: A Cell-Culture Substratum. Advantages: Large quantities of Vitronectin can be quickly and easily produced, eliminating the need for using human blood as a source for Vitronectin.

DNA Cell Lines for the Study of Long QT Syndrome

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:56:49 GMT

Applications: As part of a study on Long QT syndrome, these cell lines were obtained from approximately 600 affected and unaffected individuals are available for license in other fields of cardiac research.

HSV Amplicon-Based Immunotherapy for Alzheimer's Disease

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:56:46 GMT

Applications: A method for using a herpes-simplex virus (HSV) amplicon system for immunizing a patient against factors involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. The immunogen is packed via a helper-virus free system into a vector that is then delivered to the patient to illicit an immune response. Advantages: With 0926, 0986, 1063, 1097, 1138, and 1175, this portfolio of technologies describes the utilization of herpes-simplex viral amplicon vectors to effectively deliver therapeutic genes of interest to the CNS. The vectors are advantageous due to their combined...

How to Make and Use a Porous Device Useful for Chemical and Biologically Applications

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:56:44 GMT

Applications: The present invention describes the construction of a supported porous membrane device used in a sensor application and/or for substance delivery. The porous device has the potential to be fabricated for use in wound care, drug delivery, pathogen detection, tissue engineering, chemical sensing, and other proteomic applications. Advantages: Currently, this device represents the first prototype of a supported porous membrane device that can be used in a sensor application and/or for substance delivery. There is the ability to fabricate the porous device in a var...

Optimum Straight Cooling Fin for Industrial and Semiconductor Applications

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:56:40 GMT

Applications: The present invention provides the basis for designing a straight, solid, cooling fin with optimum geometric parameters to be used in a variety of industrial applications. These include computers, semiconductor equipment, and numerous other uses where removal of excess heat created by the system, is a design and performance consideration. Advantages: The present invention is desirable because it requires less material to make, with a mass that is six to eight times smaller, while still providing the same results as current fins. Further, the present invention ...

A Novel Mechanism for Treating Inflammation, Thrombosis, and Vascular Disease via PPARγ Agonists

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:56:39 GMT

Applications: The invention comprises a novel approach to showing that human platelets express Peroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptor gamma (PPARγ) and that PPARγ agonists such as the thiazolidinedione class of anti-diabetic drugs have a new target cell: the platelet. Advantages: This may represent a novel mechanism for treatment of inflammation, thrombosis, and vascular disease in high-risk patients. Moreover, the platelet must now be considered a new and important target in the development of new synthetic small molecule PPARγ ligands.

Quaternary Antimuscarinic Compounds for the Treatment of Bladder Diseases

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:56:24 GMT

Applications: The present invention covers the use of quaternary compounds with antimuscarinic (anticholinergic) properties for the treatment of bladder diseases, including urinary incontinence. The present compounds extend the existing patent portfolio to embrace a family of structures that show promise for intravesical use. The preferred rout of administration is intravesical. Oral or systemic routes might be effective if controlled release within the bladder could be achieved with further pharmaceutical development effort. Advantages: The present compounds have hi...

Herpesvirus Amplicon Particles

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:56:23 GMT

Applications: The invention includes methods for delivering therapeutic agents to a patient through administration of herpesvirus amplicon particles generated by a cell line that stably expresses herpes simplex virus (HSV) immediate early 3 (IE3) gene. Advantages: With 0926, 0986, 1063, 1097, 1138, and 1275, this portfolio of technologies describes the utilization of herpes-simplex viral amplicon vectors to effectively deliver therapeutic genes of interest to the CNS. The vectors are advantageous due to their combined high transgene capacity, efficient infection of most mammalian...

Three-Dimensional Body Representation Used as an Index for Dermatological Data

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:56:15 GMT

Applications: The present invention is an information structure used to organize medical data more precisely. With advancements in computer and sensor technology, accurate three dimensional representations of the human body are created. However, there is almost a complete absence of an accurate system of indexing/cataloging of dermatological conditions. The present invention uses the spatial coordinate system of the 3-D representation as a frame of reference for medical data. Uniquely linking a lesion to a system mesh makes information retrieval more precise. Advantages: The pres...

Carotid Patch and Filter for Panoramic X-Rays

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:56:12 GMT

Applications: The present invention uses a filter system that allows x-ray films or imaging devices in a panoramic radiograph device to be exposed at discrete intensities for different portions of the human dental structure. The structure is composed of human bone, teeth and soft tissue, all of which vary in density. This system has the ability to select the attenuation of an x-ray beam for the different densities of the human dental structure providing optimal results. Advantages: The present invention has several advantages. First, using the carotid filter will impr...

Compounds for Use in Cocaine Abuse with Reduced Opoid Side Effects

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:56:08 GMT

Applications: The invention is based on the discovery that nonselective κ agonists that possess µ receptor-mediated effects in addition to their kappa agonist effects can decrease cocaine self-administration more effectively and with fewer undesirable side effects than can highly selective kappa; agonists. The invention includes a number of new compounds having both nonselective kappa opioid receptor agonist activity and additional activity at µ opioid receptors. Advantages: These compounds are useful for the treatment of cocaine abuse, and can also be radiolabeled for use a...

Monoclonal Antibodies to Yellow Fever E Protein

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:56:02 GMT

Biliverdin Reductase is a Novel Cell Proliferation and Differentiation Factor

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:56:01 GMT

Applications: This invention discovered two novel roles for biliverdin reductase (BVR) in a) modeling cell morphology and b) in controlling cell size. It is related to other inventions on BVR for treating cells following stroke or an ischemic event which includes contacting a cell with biliverdin reductase, or fragment or variant thereof, under conditions effective to inhibit cell damage following stroke or an ischemic event. This invention shows that BVR is autophosphorylated and phosphorylation is required for its activity. Advantages: The results define a previously unknown m...

Stepper Motor Controller

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:59 GMT

Applications: The present invention provides a system and method for automatically incrementing the rotational position of a standard stepper motor system by a pre-programmed amount in a simple, flexible, easy-to-use and low-cost manner. A method for controlling a stepper motor system in accordance with embodiments of the present invention includes: selecting a size for at least one step to be taken by the stepper motor system and selecting a direction for at least one step. Next, the trigger signal for the step of the selected size and in the selected direction is generated...

Expression of Enhanced Green Fluorescence Protein in Pulmonary Type II Epithelial Cells of Mice

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:57 GMT

Applications: A transgenic mouse model in which EGFP was targeted to type II cells under control of the human surfactant protein (SP)-C promoter. It was generated to provide a novel method for detecting and isolating mouse type II cells on the basis of transgenic expression of enhanced green fluorescence protein (EGFP). Advantages: It was generated to provide a novel method for detecting and isolating mouse type II cells on the basis of transgenic expression of enhanced green fluorescence protein (EGFP).

Novel Autoinducer Molecules and Uses Therefore (Quinoline Signaling in the Cell-to-Cell Communication)

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:55 GMT

Applications: Therapeutic compositions containing the molecules, and therapeutic methods, methods of for regulating gene expression, methods for identifying modulators of the autoinducer molecules, and methods of modulating quorum sensing signaling in bacteria using the compounds of the invention are also described. Advantages: This technology allows the identification of compounds that modulates an autoinducer molecules in bacteria. Methods of identifying modulators of autoinducers are suitable for more than 20 species of gram-negative bacteria are now known to produce quorum se...

Use of Molecular Techniques to Identify Regulators of Bone Formation

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:54 GMT

Applications: The bone formation that occurs at sites of periodontal inflammation is haphazard and disorganized. This occurs, in part, because inflammatory cells and/or bacteria disrupt site-directing bone formation signals. This technology has utilized a novel technique to identify regulators of bone formation which occurs during normal bone remodeling. Using this technique they have identified a protein that is crucial for stimulating osteoblast bone formation at the site of resorption. Further characterization of this protein has identified the region of the ...

Use of Monobodies for Target Validation in Drug Discovery

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:52 GMT

Applications: This technology describes a method to determine whether a protein is a valid target for drug development. It utilizes the fibronectin type III domain as a scaffold to identify high affinity binding ligands - monobodies. These monobodies can then be used for disease target validation. These monobodies are stable under reducing conditions such as the cytoplasm of the cell. This makes monobodies an excellent system to build novel binding proteins. Advantages: An additional invention includes related to the development of high affinity binding proteins to specific int...

Transgenic Mouse Model of Parkinson's Disease Containing Either Wild-Type or Doubly-Mutated Human Alpha-synuclein

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:50 GMT

Applications: This transgenic mouse model can be used to study Parkinson’s Disease. The mouse model expresses a doubly mutated form of human alpha-synuclein. Advantages: This model has proven useful in understanding the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease in humans and can be useful in designing rational interventions to slow or halt the course of the disease. This model can also be used to evaluate Parkinson’s Disease therapeutics.

HSA LR Mice (Mouse Model of Myotonic Dystrophy)

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:49 GMT

Applications: The invention offers a transgenic mouse model for myotonic dystrophy. This mouse model expresses expanded CUG repeats and develops myotonia and myopathy. This model can be utilized to examine interactions between the loss- and gain-of-function effects of the mutation and to investigate the mechanism for nuclear retention and toxicity of expanded CUG repeats. Advantages: In vivo model for muscular dystrophy.

A Mouse Line that Lacks Phosphoinositide

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:46 GMT

Applications: The invention generates a mouse line that is Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase g-deficient. The mouse model can be used in target validation assays for arthritis, asthma, septic shock, and atherosclerosis. Advantages: The mouse model can provide information as to which human disease might benefit from drugs designed to inhibit Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase g.

Database for CARE-HD Trial Sponsored by NINDS

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:43 GMT

Applications: The database provides information on whether remacemide and/or coenzyme Q can effectively treat Huntington's disease. Advantages: The database is a unique collection of data from 30 months of clinical trials. Technology Status: The database is ready for use.

Dioxin Responsive lacZ Mouse Model

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:36 GMT

Applications: The mouse model provides a useful tool for both the examination of the endogenous role of the Ah receptor in proliferation or differentiation and of the developmental targets of dioxin-like compounds. Advantages: A useful model for studying how dioxin-like compounds affects Ah receptors in vivo.

Method of Using Tetracycline Compounds to Enhance Interleukin-10 Production

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:35 GMT

Applications: The invention is a method of enhancing endogenous interleukin-10 production in mammalian cells and tissues, which includes administering an effective amount of a tetracycline derivative. Advantages: The method also includes enhancing interleukin-10 production by administering an effective amount of the tetracycline derivative to a mammal. Preferred tetracycline compounds are tetracycline compounds which have been modified to reduce or eliminate their antimicrobial activity. The method can be used to treat medical conditions in mammals characterized by excessive IL-1 and...

A Cell Line Capable of Sensing HIF-1alpha Activation in the CNS for Use in Screening Pharmacologic Agents Capable of Activating/Attenuating Hypoxic Activated Gene Transcription

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:33 GMT

Applications: This technology describes a stable reporter cell line that measures the expression of hypoxia-inducible-1-alpha (HIF-1a), a transcriptional activator, which is useful in screening compound libraries for anti-ischemic, neuroprotective and tumor pro-apoptotic activity. Drug candidates identified with this technology could potentially address therapies for central nervous system ischemia, cardiac ischemia, and cancer. Advantages: This cell lines offer a fast and economical tool to learn how drug leads can regulate pathologic hypoxia-dependent transcriptional processes such ...

Reactivity/Selectivity Methods For Calibrating Predictive Models for P450

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:31 GMT

Applications: This technology relates to the development of computational models for predicting rates of drug metabolism. Advantages: This method is the only one of its kind that allows for the quantitative prediction of metabolic regioselectivity. This approach assists in the assessment of metabolic properties of new drugs and in the redesign of promising compounds to have better metabolic characteristics.

Mesangial Cell Lines as Models for the Study and Treatment of Diabetic Tissue Complications

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:30 GMT

Applications: The present invention relates to a model system for simulating diabetes. More specifically, the present invention relates to an isolated and stable clone of cells which exhibit characteristics of diabetic cells for use in testing anti-diabetic drugs, and the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy. Further, the present invention relates to the use of a stable, permanent clone of mesangial cells which underexpresses GLUT1 mRNA and protein and which can be used therapeutically. Advantages: The present invention provides a new in vitro model system for simulating diabetes in t...

Antibodies to Bacterial Autoinducers

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:27 GMT

Applications: The invention embodies immunogenic conjugates of gram negative bacterial autoinducer molecules (BAI) coupled to carrier molecules and use of the antibodies generated by such conjugates. BAIs are non-immunogenic. However, by covalently coupling BAIs to a carrier protein, a T cell-dependent, humoral, anamnastic immunological response is elicited upon immunization. By binding BAIs with antibodies, the transcriptional cascade that results in enhanced virulence is inhibited, and bacteria are rendered more susceptible to both natural immune mechanisms and to antimicrobial therap...

Animal Model for the Testing of Allergens and Irritants

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:26 GMT

Applications: A novel in vitro molecular reporter test which measures the upregulation of a keratinocyte-derived costimulatory molecule induced by allergens and irritants. Certain chemicals enhance the attributes of products which come in significant contact with the skin, such as cosmetics and clothing. Oftentimes it is not clearly understood what effects these chemicals may have on the skin until after a product has reached the market. Because the health of potential consumers is at risk, product testing using human volunteers and animals (i.e., the Draize Test) is conduc...

Detection of Hypoxia

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:24 GMT

Applications: The present invention presents novel nitroaromatic compounds; immunogenic conjugates comprising the novel nitroaromatic compounds and proteins; and monoclonal antibodies specific for the novel nitroaromatic compounds of the invention, their protein conjugates, their reductive byproducts, and adducts formed between mammalian hypoxic cells and the compounds of the invention. The invention is further directed to methods for detecting levels of low oxygen in tissue. Detection may be done directly using methods such as imaging techniques involving specific isotopes attached to...

In-Vitro Screening System Expressing Beta-Amyloid

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:21 GMT

Applications: The present invention relates to recombinant DNA technology and to products and processes involved in the cloning preparation, expression, and use of genes for amyloid derived from the brain of Alzheimer's Disease patients. Advantages: The invention relates to an in vitro method of screening for drugs, potentially useful for treatment of Alzheimer's Disease. The method involves contacting a drug with a host transformed with a DNA construct which contains at least the DNA coding for human A4-amyloid peptide and over expresses the peptide and then detecting the prevention ...

Rapid Production of Autologous Tumor Vaccines

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:20 GMT

Applications: The invention provides for a method for rapid production with autologous tumor vaccines which can be applied to tumor cells in vivo without requiring surgical removal of the tumor. Advantages: Treatment could be used in conjunctio with other oncology treatment.

Transgenic Mice Expressing Human PSA

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:18 GMT

Applications: Human prostate-specific antigen (PSA) has been widely used as a serum marker for cancer of the prostate. The cell type-specific expression of PSA also makes it a potential tumor antigen for prostate cancer immunotherapy. Advantages: Generation of a mouse model expressing human PSA allows for the study of the immunological aspects of this protein within either normal or malignant prostate tissue.

E1-A Immortalized Retinal Cell Culture

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:17 GMT

Applications: The established retinal cell line retains retinal properties, is non-tumorigenic but immortal. It is ideal for in-vitro drug screening. Advantages: It is one of very few retinal cell lines. Technology Status: E1 cell line is ready for use.

Inhibitor of HIV-1 Replication

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:16 GMT

Applications: A tRNA molecule has been developed with a modified aminoacyl acceptor stem with a 3' segment which has reduced complementary to the HIV primer binding site can initiate aberrant reverse transcription and/or interfere with reverse transcription. This invention also describes methods of inhibiting the interaction of the tRNA.sup.Lys3 molecule with HIV-1 reverse transcriptase or HIV-1 RNA template. Advantages: tRNA molecules which are modified in regions outside the acceptor stem which interact with reverse trancriptase or the HIV-1 RNA template can also inhibit HIV-1 rep...

Novel Antichlorinergic Medications for Urinary Incontinence

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:13 GMT

Applications: This invention includes methods, chemical compounds, and pharmaceutical compositions and kits for the treatment of bladder incontinence by the administration of quaternary anticholinergics agents with prolonged duration of action directly to the bladder (intravesicle administration by catheter) to result in prolonged bladder control. Advantages: Agents with durations of action between a week and a month could be useful for a significant number of patients and perhaps reach distinct groups for whom no satisfactory treatment is currently available.

Hybridoma Cell Line & Monoclonal Antibodies Named IV.3

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:08 GMT

Applications: This invention presents monoclonal antibodies against FcRII, and the antibody-producing hybridoma cell line. These antibodies can be utilized in evaluation of function and regulation of FcRII. Advantages: This inventions presents the first monoclonal antibody that recognize FcRII, and provides a novel tool in FcRII related research.

Nerve Growth Factor Somatic Mosaicism Produced by Herpes Virus - Directed Expression of CRE Recombinase in Mice

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:05 GMT

Applications: A new core technology has been developed at the University of Rochester that enables the control of gene expression in an animal model by an external mechanism. The strength of this model system lies in the fact that gene expression can be "switched on" or "switched off" at any point in the life cycle of the animal, facilitating the modeling of developmental, adolescent, or adult diseases in an in-vivo system. Recombinant animal models have revolutionized the in-vivo modeling of disease and testing of therapeutic compounds in the last two d...

Two-Step Imaging and Therapy Technology

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:55:03 GMT

Applications: The present invention provides modified avidin (Avid) and streptavidin (SA) compounds that have blood clearance kinetics suitable for use in diagnostic and therapeutic methods. In particular, to hasten streptavidin's blood clearance carbohydrate moieties are covalently bonded to streptavidin. To prolong avidin's blood clearance, avidin is deglycosylated and/or neutralized by alkylation of its lysine amino acids. The present invention further provides conjugates of modified avid or SA and a targeting agent. In a preferred embodiment the targeting agent is an antibody or ant...

Cryogenically Cooled Phased Array RF Receiver Coil for Magnetic Resonance Imaging

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 05 May 2009 12:22:04 GMT

Applications: This invention improves the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (“MRI”) system, implementing new constructions to improve the three parameters of signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), homogeneity, and field-of-view (FOV) coverage. The first objective of the present invention is to provide a new method of coil construction for use in MRI systems. Secondly, the invention will provide a cryogenically cooled RF coil to improve the signal-to-noise ratio over that detected by conventionally constructed coils. A third objective is to provide a cryogenically cooled phased array o...

Circulating Osteoclast Precursors as Markers of Bone Resorption in Inflammatory Arthritis

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 05 May 2009 12:22:03 GMT

Applications: The invention is a cell culture assay of a subject's circulating peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) to determine the number of osteoclast precursors among those cells. This technology can determine whether inflammatory arthritis patients are at increased risk for bone erosion and can be used to test the efficacy of therapeutic agents in inflammatory arthritis (diagnosis and monitoring of therapy) and may be useful in other rheumatoid and autoimmune conditions such as Crohn’s disease, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Advantages: Th...

Algorithm, Operator Interface, and Specific Software for Operation of a Laser Scanning Fluorescence Confocal Microscope System

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 05 May 2009 12:22:02 GMT

Applications: This technology implements a novel algorithmic method using specific software to operate a confocal microscope system. It includes deflecting and stepping a light beam on a specimen with at least one beam deflection device. Advantages: The method provides simple and flexible control of a laser scanning confocal microscope, reducing a great deal of time and effort involved in modifying operation of the equipment for particular applications. Additionally it eliminates some deficiencies in controlling the timing of different operations within the laser scanning c...

Conditioning in Pharmacotherapy

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 05 May 2009 12:22:02 GMT

Applications: The present invention is a drug infusion system and methodology for administering a drug bolus or placebo bolus, or both, to a patient, either automatically or by patient control. Advantages: Current drug delivery is normally either programmed to occur as a continuous infusion or single or multiple bolus doses over time, or via self-administration. Regardless of the administration mode, however, such systems offer only continuous reinforcement since they are equipped to administer the drug alone all the time. Drug infusion systems have been described for the d...

Intermolecular Multiple-Quantum Coherence MR Imaging in Humans

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 05 May 2009 12:22:00 GMT

Applications: The present invention is an MRI imaging method based on MQC (multiple quantum coherence), and in particular on DQC (double quantum coherence) for soft tissue imaging in humans. The present invention permits DQC MR images in human brains. This was achieved by using a source of signals that had previously been considered as non-existent or too difficult to be detected. Advantages: Acquisition of the human brain images based on DQC in water was successful for the first time on a 1.5T clinical scanner. The DQC signal provides new contrast for the detection o...

Orthogonal Gradient Technique for Fast Diffusion-Weighted MRI

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 05 May 2009 12:22:00 GMT

Applications: This invention defines a more efficient, accurate, and practical technique for MRI. It is a system of and method for generating a magnetic field with optimized orthogonal gradients derived from a combination of x, y, and z orthogonal gradients. This invention is intended for use with diffusion-weighted trace MRI. Advantages: The present invention provides a new technique to improve the efficiency for single-shot diffusion-weighted trace MRI and to increase the accuracy in determining the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the diffusion tensor. The technique...

Method for Image Registration Using Weighted Geometrical Figures

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 05 May 2009 12:21:59 GMT

Applications: This invention defines a 3-D image registration method that uses a weighted combination of multiple geometrical features simultaneously. The method uses an algorithm, called a weighted geometrical feature (WGF) registration algorithm, which has the capability of using points, curves, and surfaces. The result of the registration is a transformational function which is used in guiding surgical operations. Advantages: This method provides high accuracy while minimizing the need for invasive techniques and other sources of patient discomfort. Different weig...

Monoclonal Antibodies Differentially Reactive with Native and Reductively Modified Bowman-Birk Protease Inhibitor

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 05 May 2009 12:21:59 GMT

Applications: The protease inhibitor, Bowman-Birk protease inhibitor (BBI), is a low molecular weight (Mr 8,000) double-headed inhibitor of trypsin and chymotrypsin isolated from soybeans. It was first discovered approximately forty years ago and has attracted renewed interest from the scientific research community since the discovery of its potent anticarcinogenic effects in several experimental systems. BBI has been shown to prevent or suppress radiation--and chemical carcinogen-induced malignant transformation in vitro and carcinogenesis in mice, rats and hamsters involving several ...

Acoustically Induced Blood Stasis and in vivo Optical Spectroscopy Thereof

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 05 May 2009 11:30:01 GMT

Applications: The present invention combines the effects of ultrasound induced blood stasis and optical spectroscopy to create a new, non-invasive tissue imaging and diagnostic tool. It has applications in non invasive tissue diagnosis, localized drug delivery, non-invasive manipulation of vascular blood flow and oxygenation for generally enhanced therapeutic and diagnostic effects. Advantages: Presently there are few tissue diagnosis methods approved for clinical use. For some tissue diagnosis purposes, imaging molecules is sufficient (e.g. MRI, CT, PET etc.). Breast cancer is very di...

Monoclonal Antibodies to von Willebrand Factor Propolypeptide (VWFpp)

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 05 May 2009 11:30:01 GMT

Applications: The invention offers monoclonal antibodies against VWFpp as a diagnostic for von Willebrand disease. VWFpp is stored only in the endothelial cell and release of this protein may serve as marker for endothelial cell damage of von Willebrand disease. Advantages: von Willebrand disease has very mild signs and the condition can be difficult to diagnose. The common blood test for von Willebrand disease is the measurement of VWF antigen. The present invention offers an alternative method by measuring VWFpp, adding further accuracy to identify the disease.

Non-Invasive in-vivo Imaging of Mechanoreceptors in Human Skin Using Confocal Microscopy

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 05 May 2009 11:30:00 GMT

Applications: This invention relates to a technique for non-invasive in vivo imaging of the sensory nerve endings in the skin or Meissner's corpuscles using confocal microscopy. Advantages: Assessment of sensory nerve endings in the skin (Meissner's corpuscles) by means of invasive punch skin biopsy from the palmar surface of the hand or fingers or the sole of the feet has been done for a century as a research technique to understand sensory function and has been considered a potentially useful approach to study and diagnose sensory loss and sensory neuropathies in the clinic.&n...

Algorithm to Increase Dynamic Range of Wavefront Sensor to Correct Eye Defects

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 05 May 2009 11:29:59 GMT

Applications: Wavefront sensors are used to diagnoses and correct the optical defects in the eye. This technology increases dynamic range of a conventional wavefront sensor without sacrificing measurement sensitivity for the eye and optical testing. Advantages: The increased dynamic range of wavefront sensor enhances diagnosis and correction of optical defects in highly myopic patients or patients with abnormal corneas who have very large amounts of optical defects. This is accomplished using software rather than modifying the existing wavefront sensor hardware and the sof...

Tear Film Dynamics Measured with Optical Coherence Tomography

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 05 May 2009 11:29:58 GMT

Applications: This technology has applications in the diagnosis of tear film related ocular diseases and evaluation of artificial tears and other eye drops. Tear film thickness interests researchers and clinicians because it may be related to dry eye and corneal integrity as well as symptoms of dryness and improper contact lens wear. Advantages: This technology provides a non invasive technique, using Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), to measure tear film dynamics (dynamic tear film thickness and height of tear meniscus around both upper and lower eyelids. Current practice is the mea...

Neuropeptide Urine Tests for the Diagnosis of Interstitial Cystitis, and Use of Antagonists and Gene Therapy for Its Treatment

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 05 May 2009 11:29:57 GMT

Applications: Interstitial Cystitis is a chronic pelvic perineal pain syndrome of unknown etiology that affects approximately 700,000 Americans. A diagnosis of interstitial cystitis is usually made by an analysis of patient symptoms combined with testing to rule out other common urinary tract disorders. Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center have identified peptides, specifically Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) and Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase Activating Peptide (PACAP) that can be measured in the urine of patients and can be used as a diagnostic ma...

Large Dynamic Range Shack-Hartmann Wavefront Sensor to Test for Eye Aberrations

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 05 May 2009 11:29:56 GMT

Applications: The present invention is the use of a translational plate with the Shack-Hartmann Wavefront Sensor to test human eye aberrations. With the addition of the translational plate, the Shack-Hartmann Wavefront Sensor is able to handle a large dynamic range without compromising measurement sensitivity. Advantages: The present invention addresses the problems related to the current limits of the Shack-Hartmann Wavefront Sensor. One unwanted side effect is the spots produced as a result of the current limits. The spots are removed by reducing the focal length of the l...

Compact, Portable (Hand-Held) Wavefront Sensor

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 05 May 2009 11:29:55 GMT

Applications: The present invention is a compact, portable (hand-held) wavefront sensor. It is composed of a double path dichrotic filter, a beam splitter, and a dual, unequal wavelength illumination arranged in a system able to measure ocular wave aberrations. Applications include: - Vision screening of infants and children. - Measurement of ocular wave aberrations in clinic or patient's home. Advantages: Compactness and light weight of the instrument afford the portability to make ocular measurements outside the clinic.

Image Processing Methods for Computing the Volume of Tumors and Nodules from 3D Medical Images

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 14:19:38 GMT

Brief Description: The algorithmic methods in the present invention have application in the sizing of tumor candidates, especially for gauging the growth over time of suspect nodules for diagnosis of malignancy of disease. Applications: - Diagnosis and growth analysis of malignant lesions - Stereotactic radiation therapy (SRT) planning Advantages: This method provides more accurate automatic determination of tumor size and suspicious nodules. Recent advances in stereotactic radiation therapy has enabled treatment of small lesions with high (>90%) success rates. Several...

Method to Predict and Treat for Brain Tumor Spread Using MRI and External Beam Radiation

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 14:19:38 GMT

Applications: In treating aggressive brain tumors with radiation we find that treatment often fails because we find that cancer cells have migrated undetected great distances beyond the treatment area. Certain types of cancer cells are slow moving in most brain tissue but are able to travel great distances along nerve fiber tracks. The present invention utilizes MRI diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) methods and post-acquisition data processing (DTI tractography) to predict tumor spread and migration in the brain and combines this with radiation treatment planning as an effective wa...

Glycoprotein Decoration of Lambda Phage Particles: Application to Vaccine Development for Influenza Virus and Other Indications

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 14:19:37 GMT

Applications: This invention outlines a specific approach and application of immunization against influenza virus and other infectious diseases in which an antibody response to a glycoprotein antigen is likely to be protective. It is proposed to take recombinant glycoproteins made in either insect cells or mammalian cells and combine them with a display system/scaffold (the lambda phage particle) that will greatly enhance their immunogenicity.

Ratiometric Redox-Sensitive Fluorescent Probe

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 14:19:37 GMT

Applications: A highly sensitive ratiometric redox-sensitive fluorescent probe (cpYFP) and its derivative based on a mitochondria-targeted calcium probe (mt-pericam) have been developed and refined. Advantages: Using this probe, the inventors are the first to identify and characterize spontaneous transient oxidation events within the mitochondrial matrix of a wide variety of excitable and non-excitable cells.

Novel Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Chimeric Virus Like Particle (cVLP)-Based Gene Delivery System for Phrophylaxis and Immunotherapy of Infectious Diseases

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 14:19:36 GMT

Applications: As demonstrated in vitro and in vivo results, HPV VLPs, preferably chimeric HPV L1/L2 VLPs, are useful for facilitating delivery and expression of plasmid DNA to antigen presenting cells, and for enhanced induction of immune responses against co-administered plasmid DNA-based immunogens. Results also demonstrate enhanced immune response to infectious diseases other than HPV. HPV chimeric VLPs have been evaluated for immunotherapy against HPV disease with only modest results. DNA immunization has demonstrated more promising, but still modest results. Advantages: Her...

A Micro-Doppler Catheter for the Detection and Aspiration of Venous Air Emboli During Sitting Craniotomy

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 14:19:36 GMT

Applications: Venous air embolism may occur during surgical procedures when gas enters the systemic venous system at surgical sites. The present invention is designed to detect and remove air emboli from the vena cava during a sitting craniotomy. The incidence of Venous Air Embolism during sitting craniotomy may be as high as 80% and is as high as 40% in hip surgery and cesarean section. These figures are high, especially considering that Venous Air Embolism can be fatal. This device, because of its accuracy and improvements, would be considered a safety device. Advan...

Modified Bacteriophage Vectors, Targeted to Dendritic Cells, for Vaccine Delivery Against HIV/AIDS and Other Infectious or Acquired Diseases

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 14:19:35 GMT

Applications: This technology relates to the development of Bacteriophage vectors that will transduce antigen-presenting cells of the body including dendritic cells and macrophages. Advantages: This approach is expected to result in a much stronger immune response to encoded antigens and should present a major advantage for the use of phage vectors for vaccine delivery and immunization.

Evaluation and Increased Vaccine Efficacy through Expression of Alpha-1 Integrin on T Cells

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 14:19:34 GMT

Applications: Disclosed are methods for evaluating efficacy of an immune response by assessing alpha-1 integrin, screening for, and manufacturing those therapeutic agents. Described herein the presence of VLA-1+ (positive) T cells indicates an effective immune response. Also disclosed are methods of screening for antigens that induce the production of VLA-1+ (positive) T cells, methods of isolating the antigens, and methods using the antigens identified in the screening methods to treat a subject with a disease. Advantages: This technology will allow for the identification ...

Stabilized Outersurface Protein A Fragment as a Lyme Disease Vaccine

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 14:19:32 GMT

Applications: Lyme disease is a tick-borne infection caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi that can result in damages to joints, cardiovascular and nervous systems. Outsurface protein A (OspA) is a major surface antigen of Borrelia burgdorferi. Anti- OspA mAb has been shown to protect severe combined immunodeficiency mice from clinical symptoms of Lyme disease, suggesting that the Anti- OspA mAb blocks spirochete transmission by binding to OspA. The invention develops site-directed mutations of OspA whose fold conformation is stable. Advantages: The invention develops a stab...

Transcutaneous Immunization Against Papillomavirus Disease

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 14:19:31 GMT

Brief Description: This invention is a method of vaccinating against human papillomavirus (HPV) by using papillomavirus “virus-like particles” transcutaneously to induce an immune response to the virus. Applications: Papiloma viruses constitute a group of DNA viruses that induce both lytic infections and either benign or malignant tumors. Papiloma viruses infect cutaneous, genital, oral, and respiratory epithelia in a tissue-specific manner. Infection with HPV has been associated closely with plantar warts, condylomata acuminata (anogenital warts), and premalignant and malignant lesio...

HPV Capsomeres (Homogeneous Human Papillomavirus)

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 14:19:30 GMT

Applications: The present invention provides methods to produce stable human papillomavirus (HPV) capsomeres. Such HPV capsomeres are useful as vaccines for conferring protection against human papillomavirus infection and as diagnostic agents for detection of antibodies specific to HPV L1 proteins. More specifically, isolated HPV L1 capsomeres can be used as immunogens for the prevention of diseases caused by anogenital epithelialtropic human papillomaviruses, which includes angenital warts, cervical and anal intraepithelial neoplasia, and invasive anogenital carcinoma. Advantages: ...

O2 Warning System for Low Tank Volume

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 08:54:59 GMT

Applications: This invention relates to providing a visual and audible warning when the volume in a portable oxygen tank being used falls below a minimum limit. The small gauges currently on these tanks are difficult to see by most patients, the visually impaired and even care-givers, especially in dim lighting conditions. Consequently, the patient may be without oxygen for a long time before the gauge might be noticed to be at low volume or empty. Advantages: The present invention provides a simple, low cost warning system that can be easily added to an oxygen tank’s manifold. When th...

Endotracheal Tube Securement with Secretion Drain

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 08:54:58 GMT

Applications: This invention replaces the current practice of securing the endotracheal tube with layers of adhesive-backed cloth tape around the tube and uncomfortably around patient’s neck to secure it in place or with other obtrusive and cumbersome mechanisms. Secretions from the mouth make the adhesive of the tape ineffective, the tube becomes un-secured. It may also get dislodged from its position in the trachea and may even damage the trachea. Advantages: The present invention provides a means to positively secure the endotracheal tube within the patient’s mouth. It imparts mini...

New Vaccine Against Botulism

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 08:54:58 GMT

Applications: This vaccine technology is comprised of a replication-incompetent adenovirus encoding a synthesized codon-optimized gene for expression of the heavy chain C-fragment (HC50) of botulinum neurotoxin type C. This recombinant human serotype 5 adenoviral vector (Ad5) was evaluated as a genetic vaccine candidate against botulism. Vaccination with these adenoviral vectors elicited robust serum antibody responses. Immune sera showed high potency in neutralizing the active botulism neurotoxins. Advantages: After a single dose, the animals were completely protect...

Drug Treatment for Sedation-Induced Respiratory Instability

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 08:54:57 GMT

Applications: The invention develops a pharmacological treatment for reducing sedation-induced respiratory instability. Advantages: The invention provides a viable alternative to the current CPAP treatment.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccine Based on Human Papillomavirus Virus-Like Particles

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 08:54:57 GMT

Applications: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infects the lungs and breathing passages. Usually those affected by RSV infections recover in several weeks. However, RSV remains a predictable cause of respiratory tract illness of all age groups and is the most important cause of lower respiratory tract infections in infants and children. Infection can also be severe in some people, such as infants, and older adults. RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in infants. It is also recognized as an important cause of respiratory illness in older adults. Advant...

Stable Human Fc Receptor--Transformed Cell Lines to Detect Virus-Neutralizing and Enhancing Antibodies

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 08:54:55 GMT

Applications: The invention offers a novel method to screen anti-flavivirus antibodies in blood for neutralizing and replication-enhancing antibodies using Fc gamma R transformed macrophages. Although this invention is immediately applicable to dengue virus infection, in principle it is applicable to any viral pathogen whose replication may be enhanced by antibodies. Advantages: The invention offers simplicity and the prospect of an automated, high through-put alternative to both conventional virus plaque neutralization and immune enhancement assay. The method will offer a stand...

Combined Flexible and Rigid Intubating Video Laryngoscope

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 08:54:55 GMT

Applications: The present invention is a video laryngoscope that offers the physician more variation in their view during intubation. Advantages: The novel design allows the physician to toggle their view during intubation, decreasing the time and complications associated with the procedure. The inclusion of a means to visualize placement further improves the physician’s view. In addition, the laryngoscope is designed to interface with the human anatomy so that there is greater airway clearance during the intubation procedure.

Passive Intranasal Monoclonal Antibody Prophylaxis Against Murine Pneumocystis Carinii Pneumonia

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 08:54:54 GMT

Applications: This research has identified a conserved immunogenic epitope on P. carinii and Streptococcus pneumoniae that is dually recognized by a monoclonal antibody, 4F11. The peptide containing the protective epitope can be utilized to develop a vaccine to prevent or treat disease caused by P. carnii or S. pneumoniae. Recent work has demonstrated that immunization with a recombinant protein containing the antigen produces an antibody response that recognizes P. carinii antigens in a mouse model. Additionally, the 4F11 antibody recognizing the epitope can be used ...

Endoscopic Intubation System

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 04 May 2009 08:54:53 GMT

Applications: The present invention is an improvement on the present miniature endoscope system for use in infants and small children. The present invention is designed to provide a safe, rapid intubation of very small children and babies. The endoscope shaft is continuously curved from the distal end, with the ability to affix an adapter onto the system, connecting the tube to the shaft of the system. Additionally, a video camera and an inlet air feed could be added to the system to provide aide to the user. Advantages: This invention is designed to provide more protection...

Alternative Treatment of High Cholesterol and Triglycerides, and Other Dyslipidemias via Inhibition of Intestinal Bile Acid Absorption

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 14:24:20 GMT

Applications: Dyslipidemia, including hypercholesterolemia and hyper triglyceridemia, is a common and important cluster of risk factors for coronary heart disease, hypertension, hyperinsulinemia and obesity. The three major current pharmacologic approaches for treating dyslidiemia are: 1) inhibiting cholesterol synthesis with statings; 2) inhibiting cholesterol absorbtion; 3) sequestering bile acids in the intestine with non-absorbable resins. Although reduction of plasma cholesterol by statins is generally effective in decreasing the risk of coronary heart disease, it oft...

AlternateTherapeutic Strategies for the Reduction of Serum LDL Cholesterol and the Associated Risk of Atherosclerosis

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 14:24:15 GMT

Applications: The invention offers TAT-APOBEC-1 gene therapy for the reduction of serum LDL cholesterol and the associated risk of atherosclerosis. The induction of TAT-APOBEC-1 expression in a limited number of hepatocytes in situ through viral (adenoviral) delivery and its secretion into the local hepatic circulation will result in the local uptake of TAT-APOBEC-1 by liver cells and the induction of Apolioprotein B (apoB) mRNA editing. Liver cells in which editing have been induced by TAT-APOBEC-1 will produce less apoB100 protein and more apoB48 during the process ...

Method for Attenuating Mitochondria-Mediated Cell Injury

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 14:24:14 GMT

Applications: This suite of technologies describes therapeutic approaches to diseases such as neurodegeneration, stroke, ischemia/reperfusion, diabetes, cardiomyopathy, and cancer that involved targeting the mitochondria. More specifically, these technologies describe the synthesis of mitochondrial targeted antioxidant compounds that will reduce ROS production and damage which underlies or contributes to the progression of disease. The invention offers an S-nitrosated mitochondria-targeted thiol-based antioxidant pro-drug for the prevention or treatment of diseases or conditions ...

Aryloxypropanoic Acids-Based Mitochondrially Targeted Prodrugs. I. Phenol and Pyridinol-Based Antioxidants

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 14:24:12 GMT

Applications: With 6-1250 and 6-1467, this suite of technologies describes therapeutic approaches to diseases such as neurodegeneration, stroke, ischemia/reperfusion, diabetes, cardiomyopathy, and cancer that involved targeting the mitochondria. More specifically, these technologies describe the synthesis of mitochondrial targeted antioxidant compounds that will reduce ROS production and damage which underlies or contributes to the progression of disease.

Androgen Receptor's Involvement in the Development of Type II Diabetes

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 14:24:11 GMT

Applications: Androgen receptor (AR) is a member of the steroid hormone superfamily of nuclear receptors. Androgen receptor has been implicated in many cancers in an androgen-dependent way. This invention discloses that androgen receptor is also involved in the development of Type II Diabetes and coronary heart disease (CHD). Furthermore, while anti-androgens, such has hydroxyflutamide, have been used to treat AR-dependent cancers for many years, theses same treatments can increase the factors that contribute to Type II Diabetes and CHD. Advantages: The molecules of this in...

Targeting of Cytoprotective Antioxidants to Mitochondria

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 14:24:10 GMT

Applications: With 6-1390 and 6-1467, this suite of technologies describes therapeutic approaches to diseases such as neurodegeneration, stroke, ischemia/reperfusion, diabetes, cardiomyopathy, and cancer that involved targeting the mitochondria. More specifically, these technologies describe the synthesis of mitochondrial targeted antioxidant compounds that will reduce ROS production and damage which underlies or contributes to the progression of disease.

Water and Fat 3-D MRI

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 14:24:07 GMT

Applications: This invention defines a system and method in which a pulse sequence contains alternating phase-encoding lines for the excitation of water and fat within one data acquisition time. The pulse sequence provides water-only and fat-only images without interference from other chemical species. It also produces 3-D water plus fat images with perfect local registration, eliminating the chemical shift artifact in both in-plane and through-plane directions. A new technique has been developed, 3-DIWFAC, for simultaneous 3D water-only, fat-only, and water-plus-fat i...

Integrated Microfluidic Bubble Bioreactor for Cell Capture

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 13:42:02 GMT

Applications: This invention describes a novel process to microfabricate perfectly spherical concave lab-on-a-chip bioreactors that can be used capture cells from steady flow and maintain them for basic research investigations and/or for use in medical diagnostics/treatment. One application has been to capture stem cells from peripheral blood and maintain them in the bubble bioreactors for further investigation. Advantages: Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis indicates that these spherical bioreactors have unique flow properties that are sufficient to maintain viability o...

Use of Antibody Secreting Cell (ASC) Elispots from Peripheral Blood between Day 5-10 after Vaccination to Assess Antibody Vaccine Responses as Diagnostic Tool for Booster or Re-vaccination, Use of ASC Elispot to Assess Acute Infection with Pathogen

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 13:31:40 GMT

Applications: This invention uses Elispot technology to detect antibody secreting cells (ASC) from peripheral blood as a means to determine a patient’s immune response to influenza vaccination. Advantages: Many vaccines have a high failure rate and current methods to discern responders from non responders are not entirely accurate. There is a need for early biomarkers that could determine long term protection. ASC are detectable 5-9 days post vaccination and are thought to be responsible for a patient’s long term response. Thus measuring ASC in the blood of vaccinat...

A Novel Brain Tumor Stem Cell Biomarker for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Application

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 13:23:57 GMT

Applications: The invention identifies a biomarker specifically over-expressed in progenitor cells of major primary brain tumors, including gliobalstoma, anapestic astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma, and neurocytoma. The biomarker is a feasible target for antibody pharmacotherapy of primary brain tumors. Advantages: Out of ten thousands of genes, the invention identifies a biomarker that is specifically over-expressed in all major brain tumor progenitor cells. The biomarker can be targeted for both detection and functional blockade.

Blood Test of Cytokine Activation Helps to Distinguish between Different Types of Inflammation

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 13:21:06 GMT

Applications: It is very difficult to distinguish between Crohn’s Disease (CD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC), two different forms of intestinal inflammatory diseases. The diagnosis of a specific disease is critical for treatment options, prognosis and post-surgical complications. The invention tests cytokine activation in blood to distinguish between CD, UC and other chronic inflammatory conditions. Advantages: Compared with current available test, the invention provides a more sensitive and accurate approach.

Detection and Treatment of Interstitial Cystitis

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 13:12:06 GMT

Applications: The invention provides a novel approach for the detection and treatment of interstitial cystitis and other pelvic pain. Advantages: At present there are no widely accepted methods or pathological criteria for the definitive diagnosis of interstitial cystitis. The invention identifies a novel molecule that may be useful in the diagnosis and treatment of interstitial cystitis.

RECRUIT - A Database Solution for the Management of Clinical Tial Recruitment

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 12:54:36 GMT

Applications: RECRUIT is a clinical trial recruitment management software program developed internally by the Informatics Core of the NIH funded Clinical and Translational Science Insitute (CTSI) at the University of Rochester. · Research-this application is applicable to all research projects. · Electronic-optimized for speed and user friendliness using tried-and-true database technologies developed by the UR Informatics. · Calendaring-built in calendaring component allows for scheduling, tracking,...

Peptide ELISA Test for Detection of Human Herpesvirus (HHV)-6A Specific Antibodies

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 12:43:29 GMT

Applications: Human Herpes Virus 6 (HHV-6) is one of the eight members of the family of human herpesviruses. Serologic testing reveals that more than 95% of the world's population is positive for antibodies to HHV-6. While rarely causing complications, HHV-6 has been implicated in the etiology of chronic fatigue syndrome. There are also reports of HHV-6 reactivation in patients with Multiple Sclerosis. While a definite link between HHV-6 and these conditions has not been established yet, there is growing evidence suggestive a negative role of the virus in these two condition...

Extended Cardiac Explant Preservation

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 12:19:43 GMT

Applications: The present invention is a method, called intermittent perfusion, created to achieve long term cardiac preservation while still maintaining cardiac capability. The perfusion protocol is optimized with respect to perfusion duration, frequency of perfusion, perfusion pressure, and the composition of the perfusate, resulting in extended cardiac preservation. Advantages: With the present invention, the cellular integrity of the explant is maintained for over 40 hours. The specific protocol repletes the myocardial high energy phosphate levels (HEP) but does not cau...

MADDIT II Blood Samples

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 11:52:23 GMT

Applications: This set of biological materials arose from a genetics research study at the University of Rochester in the area of sudden cardiac death. The University also possesses genotypic and phenotypic data related to each sample (subject) that participated in this study. The data collected during the course of the study is owned by a third party.

A Novel Approach to Treating Multiple Diseases by Small Molecule Targeting of G-Proteins - One Step Beyond GPCRs

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 11:45:51 GMT

Applications: Despite the prevalence of GPCR targeting as a therapeutic paradigm, there are few approved or in-development therapeutics targeting the downstream effectors to which GPCRs are coupled (i.e., the G-proteins alpha and ßgamma). Both Galpha and Gßgamma act as the downstream messengers of activated receptors and elicit specific biological responses. Targeting the G-proteins' messengers could present a tremendous therapeutic advantage by offering greater efficacy and enhancement of selectivity not possible by targeting the receptor itself. Of greatest interest and t...

Serum Glocose and Triglyceride Determine High-Risk Subgroups in Non-diabetic Postinfarction Patients

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 11:19:36 GMT

Applications: This technology offers a novel method to identify the risk factors of post-myocardial infarction (MI) individuals that are at risk of a repeat MI and a computational algorithm for analysis and visual presentation of combined marker effects. Advantages: This technology offers assessment method based on combination of two risk factors as opposed to the traditional single risk factor analysis, continuous nature of outcome probability mapping more generally and precisely defines subgroups, and ranking of risk factors to more evenly cover the bivariate risk factor domain.

Methods and Compositions for Treating and Preventing Cardiac Dysfunction

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 09:53:16 GMT

Applications: Cardiomyopathies are disorders caused by or associated with myocardial dysfunctions. A common complication of all of the cardiomyopathies is progressive congestive heart failure. This invention provides methods for treating or preventing cardiac dysfunction in a subject having or being at risk of developing a cardiomyopathy. The methods entail administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of an antagonist of protease activated receptor 1 (PAR1). Advantages: There is a need in the art for better means for treating cardiac dysfunctions th...

SIRT1 and RelB as Targets for Treating Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Other Inflammatory Diseases

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 09:38:29 GMT

Applications: It is well known that abnormal inflammatory responses to smoking in subjects with COPD are due to chronic inflammatory effects incited by the smoke. Due to the complex nature of this inflammation’s processes, the exact nature of the smoke induced progression in chronic COPD is unclear. The subject of this invention involves new knowledge of the mechanism of the disease and the possible therapeutic intervention at two definitive targets: modifications of the functionality of SIRT1 and RELB. Advantages: By increasing the activity of one, or both, of t...

HDAC(s) Are a Direct Molecular Target for Treating Human COPD, Emphysema, and Severe Asthma

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 09:29:55 GMT

Applications: This is the first finding of the endogenous anti-inflammatory property of histone deacetylases (HDACs) proteins. Molecular targets and methods for treating inflammatory disorders are described. The expression and/or functionality of the HDACs are modified in order to treat inflammatory disorders. The expression of one or more HDACs may be increased, or the activity of one of more HDACs may be increased in order to inhibit the activation of genes involved inflammation. Inflammatory disorders such as chronicobstructive pulmonary disorder, rheumatoid...

A Novel Approach to Treating Multiple Diseases by Small Molecule Targeting of G-Proteins - One Step Beyond GPCRs

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 09:13:11 GMT

Inhibition of Molecular Mediators in TNF-Signaling (Inflammation) for the Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases Such as Atherosclerosis, Stroke, and Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 08:59:25 GMT

Applications: This technology has identified a molecular mediator of TNF-signaling and subsequent inflammation in endothelial cells. Pharmacological inhibition of this mediator can be beneficial for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, stroke, and ischemia/reperfusion injury. Advantages: This method for protecting against ischemia and reperfusion damage by inhibiting the interaction between thioredoxin and thioredoxin interacting protein allows increased thioredoxin activity which inhibits downstream events that can cause cardiovascular tissue damag...

Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibition as a Treatment Strategy for Severe Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 13:47:11 GMT

Applications: The invention proposes a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of severe pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) by targeting Tissue Factor (TF) pathway. Preliminary human and animal data have demonstrated that TF is associated with PAH. By blocking TF pathway, the progression of PAH would be stopped and early pathological vascular changes could be potentially reversed. Blockade of TF pathway can be currently implemented by administration of TF pathway inhibitor (TFPI) (invented by Chiron) to PAH patients. Future effort should be directed toward dev...

A New Class of Osteoclast Precursors

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 13:32:28 GMT

Applications: This technology has identified a therapeutic cellular target for the treatment of diseases related to inflammation and bone loss, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, and periodontal disease. This technology also describes a method of ex-vivo culture and transplantation of a specific group of Osteoclast Precursors. Advantages: The current invention provides a better understanding of osteoclastogenesis and a better approach for discovering new drug targets.

Genetic Polymorphisms Which Are Associated with Autism Spectrum Disorders

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 13:32:26 GMT

Applications: The invention relates to a method of screening subjects for genetic markers associated with autism and the nucleic acids, polypeptides, and antibodies specific to the polypeptides produced by the mutated genes. Advantages: Currently there are no diagnostic tests or biomarkers for autism and its diagnosis is based on behavioral criteria. The behavioral diagnosis sometimes is not made until age 2 or 3 although the signs of autism often appear by 18 months. The present invention provides an early diagnostic tool for disease intervention.

Unified Huntington Disease Rating Scale '99 with Accompanying Examination Guidelines

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 12:28:35 GMT

Applications: The scale is used to assess motor, cognitive, behavioral, and functional capacity of individuals with Hungtington's disease. Advantages: The scale leads to overall rating of patients' functional capacity. Technology Status: The scale has been used for a number of years with good results.

Unified Huntington's Disease Rating Scale

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 12:25:00 GMT

Applications: Rating scale for use in evaluating the progression of Huntington's Disease in patients. Scales includes assessment of motor function,cognitive assessment, behavioral assessment, and functional assessment. Advantages: Developed by the Huntington Study Group, this is a comprehensive rating scale for evaluating the progression of Huntington's Disease in clinical trials.

Use of Channel Blockers in the Treatment of Epilepsy

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 12:15:24 GMT

Applications: A method of treatment of epileptic seizures by blocking the release of glutamate from asctrocytes. Advantages: This method is more efficient and should have fewer side effects than current epilepsy therapies. This technology has demonstrated that regulated astrocytic glutamate release may underlie the development of epilepsy. Further, in vitro and in vivo models have been developed to aid in the development and screening of therapeutic drug candidates.

The Nogo Receptor Genes Encode a Novel Family of Sialic Acid Binding Lectins Implicated in Axonal Inhibition

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 12:15:24 GMT

Applications: This technology is applicable to treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and to nervous system regeneration and overcomes the inhibitory effect of myelin in the vicinity of the neuron. The NgR gene family provides new targets for overcoming myelin-derived inhibition of CNS regeneration. When these targets are antagonized in animal models of spinal cord injury, axonal regeneration occurs. A novel chimeric NgR1/NgR2 receptor construct demonstrates greatly enhanced affinity toward CNS inhibitory proteins. Advantages: The invention comprises novel receptors for pr...

Development of an Approach to Identify Synuclein and Modified Synuclein from Human Blood, CSF, and Urine Using Specific Human Single-Chain Antibodies

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 11:52:47 GMT

Applications: This technology describes the development of single chain human antibodies that are specific to factors associated with Parkinson’s disease formation and can be detected in human blood, CSF, and urine using a ELIDA based or surface adapted assay.

Transplantation of Astrocytes Derived from Glial Restricted Precursor Cells Suppresses Scar Formation and Promotes Axon Regeneration in the Damaged Central Nervous System

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 12:47:23 GMT

Applications: This technology describes the transplantation of glial restricted precursor derived astrocytes for treatment of spinal cord injury. Advantages: Traumatic spinal cord injury causes both the formation of inhibitory scar tissues and the loss of glia that supports axon growth, presenting formidable barriers to axon regeneration. Transplantation of undifferentiated stem cells or neural precursors has resulted in relatively limited axon regeneration across injured spinal cord. We have predifferentiated embryonic glial restricted precursors to astrocytes in vitro prior to...

Nectin-1: HSV Receptor Cleaved by α- and β-Secretase and Involvement in Alzheimer's Disease

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 12:33:44 GMT

Applications: The BACE1, also known as -secretase, is a major player to produce A-Beta peptides, which initiate a pathogenic cascade in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This invention presents a method of generating inhibitor of BACE1 enzyme by targeting the BACE1 binding motif on nectin-1. And the BACE1 inhibitor has potential implication in preventing AD. Advantages: This invention identifed a novle sequence of BACE1 binding motif on nectin-1. By introducing one singal point mutation on this motif, BACE1 interacts with nectin-1 much stronger. This invention could be utilized to desgin smal...

Chemical Preconditioning for Excitotoxic Synaptic Damage

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 12:31:07 GMT

Applications: With 6-1395, 6-1396, and 6-1452, this suite of technologies has focused on delineating the mechanisms involved in the etiology and progression of HIV-associated dementia. This work has further identified novel molecular targets for therapeutic intervention and treatment of this disease.

The Nogo-66 Receptor NgR1 is a High Affinity Receptor for Select Members of the Fibroblast Growth Factor Family that Modulates FGF Signaling in a Cell Type Specific Manner

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 12:12:08 GMT

Applications: This invention relates to neuronal growth and regeneration, and more particularly to growth and regeneration of the central nervous system. In the mature nervous system, neuronal growth and structural plasticity are regulated by a complex interaction of growth promoting and growth inhibitory extracellular cues. Advantages: Although various cues have been identified that either promote or inhibit growth and plasticity of neurons, lacking in the field is an understanding of how to modulate promoters and inhibitors concurrently in the complex milieu of the central nerv...

Optimized Cell Preparations for Allogeneic Repair of Injured Human White Matter

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 12:08:29 GMT

Applications: The present invention offers an innovative method of purifying glial progenitor cells highly biased to oligodendrocyte fate. The cells are less prone to both rejection and local graft vs. host injury after allogeneic transplant. These cells may be obtained from adult human brain, and human ES cell cultures, etc. These cells will be used for cell transplantation-based therapy of both pediatric and adult dysmyelinating and demyelinating diseases. Advantages: Currently available oligodentrocyte progenitor cell preparations are based entirely on A2B5 expression, ...

Human-Mouse Chimeric Model to Assess in vivo Response of Human Glial to Injury, Disease Perturbation, and Drug Treatment

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 08:33:16 GMT

Applications: The invention has generated chimeric human-mouse brains in which the relative proportion of human astrocytes and oligodendrocytes is quite high, often exceeding 50% of all cells in the adult white matter. More over, researchers have established mice in which 100% of myelin, in substantially normal myelinated brain, is of human origin. Advantages: In vivo responses of human glia -including glial progenitor cells, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes- to injury and disease states may be imaged and biochemically assessed, in a mouse model that permits disease perturbation, drug...

Disruption of the Signaling Pathway Implicated in the Early Stage Pathogenesis and Recurrence of Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 08:20:53 GMT

Applications: Early stage in the progression of MS and its animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), involves the disruption of the BBB. The BBB is a barrier between the brain tissue and the blood, formed by the interaction between astrocytes and vascular tissue, and as such regulates the passage of materials (metabolites, cells, etc.) from blood into the brain. Intact BBB is essential for normal brain function and pathogenic and toxicological defense. In MS and EAE, the BBB is disrupted and allows for easy translocation of myelin basic protein (MBP) sensitized T-ce...

Therapeutic Approaches for NeuroAIDS, Using Sodium Valproate and Other Pharmacologic Inhibitors of Glycogen Synthase Kinase (GSK) 3β

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 09:42:40 GMT

Applications: With 6-1395, 6-1396, and 6-1459, this suite of technologies has focused on delineating the mechanisms involved in the etiology and progression of HIV-associated dementia. This work has further identified novel molecular targets for therapeutic intervention and treatment of this disease. The invention offers novel therapeutic approaches for neruoAIDs using sodium valproate (VPA) and other pharmacologic inhibitors of glycogen synthase kinse (GSK)-3b. VPA and lithium (Li) could be used to protect brain function in neuroAIDS patients combined with standard-of-care...

Adenosine Mimetics and Modulators as a Therapeutic Tool to Replace or Improve the Efficacy of Deep Brain Stimulation

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 09:18:03 GMT

Applications: This invention proposes using adenosine agonists, mimetics, modulators, or transport inhibitors to increase release of adenosine as a mode to reduce the tremors in movement disorders. This approach mimics the current treatment strategy of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) and therefore would also be an applicable means to treat other disordered that could be aided by DBS, including epilepsy, obsessive compulsive disorder and depression. Previously, the mechanism of action for DBS was unknown. Advantages: DBS has already been proven to be an effective mode to alle...

Mouse Model of Osteoarthritis

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 09:06:03 GMT

Applications: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease and currently there is no effective treatment for the diseases. We have generated a conditional activation genetic mouse model that can help to identify new drugs for the prevention and treatment of osteoarthritis. The mouse model can also test the effect and efficacy of existing or newly identified osteoarthritis drugs. Advantages: Using the mouse model, we demonstrate for the first time that over expression of a key gene in articular chondrocytes leads to the development of OA in adult mouse.

Novel Therapies for HIV Associated Dimentia

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 15:08:46 GMT

Applications: With 1396, 1450, and 1452, this suite of technologies has focused on delineating the mechanisms involved in the etiology and progression of HIV-associated dementia. This work has further identified novel molecular targets for therapeutic intervention and treatment of this disease. This work reports that the HIV protein, Tat, and its downstream proinflammatory metabolite, PAF, increase mitochondrial membrane potential, ATP levels, and vesicle recycling prior to apoptosis in primary neuronal cell cultures. Tat-induced mitochondrial hyperpolarization is blocked w...

Porous Silicon for Bone Tissue Engineering

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 13:52:33 GMT

Applications: Porous silicon structures and particles have many possible uses for orthopaedic medical devices: as a bone graft substitute, scaffolding for bone repair and regeneration, molded orthopaedic implants, paste for spine fusion and as a substrate for controllable drug delivery. Advantages: Porous silicon (PSi) is osteoinductive (has the capacity to stimulate primitive stem cells or immature bone cells to grow and mature, forming healthy bone tissue) and also osteoconductive (can serve as a scaffold on which bone cells can attach and grow so that the bone healing response is "...

Drug Discovery for Age-Related Disease

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 13:52:32 GMT

Brief Description: The platform technology is a high throughput cell-based phenotypic assay for screening compounds for those that affect lifespan. The assay uses the model organism Saccharomyces cerevisiae and is based on an assumption of the conservation of core aging mechanisms between yeast and mammals. The first of two screens of a 130,000 compound library yielded hits which, via subsequent structure-activity refinement, have resulted in high activity leads that are active in model animals and mammalian tissue culture cells for age-related diseases. &n...

Repair and Regeneration of Articular Cartilage, and the Repair and Regeneration of Fibrocartilaginous Tissues

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 13:03:49 GMT

Applications: The invention provides methods for the protection, repair and regeneration of articular cartilage, and the repair and regeneration of fibrocartilaginous tissues. Advantages: There is currently no known medical treatment for stimulating the protection or repair of cartilage, tendons, muscles, meniscus, intervertebral discs, or ligaments. Osteoarthritis, for example, which is associated with degeneration of articular cartilage, is a leading cause of disability and immobility, with current estimates of over 40 million Americans affected. Articular cartilage in adults has an...

A Novel Prognostic Indicator for Melanoma Progression and Guide to Therapy

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 13:03:45 GMT

Applications: This study identifies a novel protein whose degree of expression on melanoma cells can be used as an independent prognostic indicator for melanoma progression. The expression level of the protein is also instrumental for melanoma therapy, such as indicating if and when aggressive treatment including extensive lymph node dissection should be applied. The expression of the protein can be readily analyzed by immunohistochemical staining of patient samples. Advantages: The invention suggests a novel assay that can be easily performed on patient tissue sample, assign me...

Neutralizing Antibody Specific for Mouse (VEGFR)-2 Reduces Joint Damage in Chronic Inflammatory Arthritis

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 13:03:41 GMT

Applications: Recent studies demonstrated that angiogenesis plays a role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory-erosive arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Angiogenesis is regulated by multiple factors and signal pathways. VEGF-A, the most studied angiogenic factor, works through VEGFR1 and VEGFR2-mediated pathways in blood endothelial cells. VEGFR1 inhibition has been shown to reduce joint lesions in animal models of RA, but the role of VEGFR2-mediated events in RA pathology has not been fully elucidated. In this invention, Dr Xing examined the effect of VEGFR2...

Intermittent Systemic PTH Treatment for Enhanced Allograft and Tissue-Engineered Reconstruction of Massive Bone Defects

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 13:03:40 GMT

Applications: This invention has applications in the reconstruction of massive long bone defects using tissue engineering biomaterials/scaffolds, processed allografts, autografts, or demineralized bone matrix (DBM). Advantages: Structural bone allografts are widely used in orthopaedics to fill critically sized defects. However, their impaired incorporation, remodeling and high failure rates limit the allografts' survival half-life. Adjuvant therapies such as coengraftment with mesenchymal stem cells, local gene therapy, and various chemical and mechanical treatments have been ap...

Freeze-Dried Tendon Allografts as Delivery Vehicles for Genes

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 13:03:39 GMT

Applications: This invention is a novel application in tissue engineering and soft tissue (tendon, ligament, skin, cartilage) repair and regeneration. Advantages: A large number of therapeutic agents (growth factors and cytokines) have the potential to enhance repair in tendon and ligament allografts. However, our ability to design repair and anti-adhesion adjuvants for tendons is dependent upon developing efficacious delivery protocols of such therapeutic agents. Unfortunately, direct delivery of proteins may be limited due to limited half life and diffusive hindrance.&nbs...

Method to Correct for Skeletal Lead Interference in Bone Mineral Density Measurements

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 13:03:36 GMT

Applications: This technology describes a method to correct for the interference that lead levels in human bone have on diagnostic tests for osteoporosis. The presence of lead in bone creates an artifact in the accurate measurement of bone mineral density which is an important metric in the diagnosis for osteoporosis. Correction for this interference will alter clinical decision making as to whether patients commence therapy for osteoporosis. Advantages: The standard method to measure bone mineral density is DEXA (dual energy x-ray absorptiometry). Current DEXA measur...

Androgens and the Androgen Receptor (AR); Alternative Treatment Strategies for Liver Cancer

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 08:55:02 GMT

Applications: The effect of androgens on liver cancer remains controversial. Androgen ablation therapy to treat hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has had limited and inconsistent results. This invention not only identifies androgen receptor's (AR) role in hepatocarcinogenesis, but also embodies the intervention in this pathway to treat HCC in a more consistent manner. This observation has been further validated in animal models and cell lines by RNAi and targeted therapy using an ASC-J9, a compound derived from natural products that has been shown to enhance the degradat...

Androgens and the Androgen Receptor (AR); Alternative Treatment Strategies for Bladder Cancer

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 08:55:01 GMT

Applications: Males have a higher incidence of bladder cancer than females and, unlike prostate cancer, human bladder cancer is not generally considered to be dependent on hormone activity. This technology implicates the possible involvement of androgens and AR in bladder cancer and each could play a novel role in the development of preventive or therapeutic approaches for bladder cancer. Advantages:The standard of treatment for patients with superficial bladder cancer is surgical removal of tumors, with an 80% early success rate. However, nearly 70% of t...

The First Steroid Nuclear Receptor (TR4) and Cancer

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 08:54:55 GMT

Applications: In this invention, Advantages: The techniques and methods disclosed herein can be used to diagnose a subject with premature aging and to assess the likelihood a subject will develop a condition due to decreased TR4 activity. Also disclosed are methods for screening drugs for an effect on cancer.

A Novel Approach for Cancer Treatment

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 08:35:07 GMT

Applications: The invention identifies a potential new type of drug targets for treating various kinds of cancers. The proteins identified in the invention shows a profound proliferative effect on various cancer cell lines, suggesting that the antagonists and/or inhibitors of the proteins are important therapeutic candidates for some aggressive and poor prognostic tumors. Advantages: Our invention is the first to identify the proteins as a potent proliferative factor for tumor cells. Targeting the proteins represents a new and unexplored therapeutic mode to combat some aggressive and ...

High Affinity Binding Proteins to Integrins

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 08:35:05 GMT

Applications: This technology is related to the development of high affinity binding proteins to specific integrin proteins highly associated with cancer metastasis. Applications of these targeting molecules include tumor imaging, targeted tumor therapy, and targeted gene delivery. Advantages: These molecules are more stable, easier to make, and more amenable to protein engineering techniques than short peptides and antibodies.

Agents to Promote Apoptosis in Cancer Cells via Interruption of Oncogene-Induced Integrin Signaling

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 08:35:04 GMT

Applications: Carcinogenesis is caused by multiple cooperating genetic lesions leading to a progressive deregulation of cellular signaling and cell cycle restriction point control. The mutations involved result in oncogene activation or loss of tumor-suppressor gene function. Typically, single oncogenes are insufficient to cause malignant transformation because they simultaneously induce signals stimulating and inhibiting cell growth. As a result, cell proliferation remains restricted. In contrast, cooperating oncogenic lesions act in concert to disable such inh...

Novel Conditionally Replicating Adenovirus Vector and Improved Method for Use Thereof

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 13:03:07 GMT

Applications: Oncolytic conditionally replicating adenoviruses (CRAD) that replicate and induce lysis selectively in tumor cells have been developed as a novel genetic approach for the treatment of cancer. Advantages: Although this approach has demonstrated promising results in phase I and II clinical trials, these CRADs have limitations which restrict their use to specific types of cancer or cancerous cell types. This technology describes a novel approach to the generation of oncolytic CRAD that will overcome these limitations.

Robot-Assisted Platform for Intratumoral Delivery (RAPID) System

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 13:03:07 GMT

Applications: This technology relates to robot-assisted radioactive seed implantation for prostate brachytherapy. It is an automated system for delivery of seeds or other therapeutic or diagnostic capsules to internal organs of the patient’s body for radiation brachytherapy and includes a needling mechanism, a 2DOF robot, an ultrasound probe driver, a 5DOF passive platform, and an easy lock cart. The needling mechanism implants radioisotope seeds by its cannula and stylet driven by two moving stages pushed by DC motors with ball screw transmission. Force sensors are included for d...

The Green Tea Constituent Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) as an Anti-cancer Agent by Its Ability to Bind to and Inhibit the Activity of 90-kDa Heat Shock Protein (hsp90)

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 13:03:06 GMT

Applications: This technology has identified one mechanism by which Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG), a major component of green tea, exerts its anti-carcinogenic effects. EGCG can inhibit the function of heat shock protein-90 (hsp90) by binding to C-terminal region on hsp90. Hsp90 is a cellular chaperone believed to be involved in the progression of diseases such as prostate cancer. The ability of green tea and EGCG to act as anti-cancer agents may be due to their binding to hisp90 and the binding at the particular site on hsp90 may designate unique anti-cancer speci...

Means for Diagnosing and Treating Androgen Independent Breast Cancer

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 13:03:05 GMT

Applications: Disclosed are molecules which inhibit androgen-independent androgen receptor activity. As a result, this invention provides a means for diagnosing and treating androgen independent breast cancer. Because the interactions between these molecules and the androgen receptor do not depend on androgen, the mechanism underlying these interactions can also be used to identify other compositions which modulate or mimic this activity or androgen receptor activity. The novel inhibitor molecules included in the invention are ARA67, GSK2B, and hRad9. Advantages: Re...

Zebularine--A More Targeted and Selective Anti-Cancer Therapeutic

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 13:03:05 GMT

Applications: Cytidine deaminases, because of their ability to induce hypermutations have the potential to turn into oncogenes and have been identified as such in B cell lymphomas and lymphocytic leukemias. This technology proposes a means to selectively target candidate cytidine deaminases and at low concentrations inhibit their activity with an identified inhibitor; zebularine. Advantages:Presently, zebularine is only an effective inhibitor of the cytidine deaminases when used at high concentrations that are toxic. Because of the technology’s design, the zebularine is ...

Optical Detection and Monitoring of Cervical Cancer Using a Novel Protein Biomarker

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 12:09:08 GMT

Applications: This invention is related to in vivo screening, diagnosis and monitoring of cervical cancer and classifying the stage of disease progression. There is currently no method whereby tissue auto-fluorescence will provide a fluorescence signal that accurately stages cervical cancer disease progression. There are also instances where biomarkers of cervical cancer may also result from tissue inflammation, confounding a direct diagnosis and increasing false positive results. PAP smears also result in large false positives and require require re-testing, which causes a large d...

Innovative Cancer Drug Targets

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 12:09:07 GMT

Applications: The study has shown that a large proportion of genes, controlled synergistically by p53 loss-of-function and Ras activation, are critical to the malignant state. These observations suggest that malignant transformation is a highly cooperative process. Advantages: The invention discovers novel molecular underpinnings of cancer. It is instrumental for identifying rational cancer drug targets and for developing innovative drug combination for cancer therapy. The study results have been published in Nature.

Forebrain Glial Restricted Precursor Cells for Cell Transplantation Therapy of Brain/ Spinal Injuries and Diseases

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 12:09:07 GMT

Applications: This invention provides the first clearly characterized glial restricted precursor cell (GRP) isolated from forebrain that can be used for transplantation in injury and disease models. Forebrain glial precursor cell can be used as a source generating GDA like cells and a tool for drug screen. Advantages: The invention develops glial restricted precursor cells originated from forebrain. The cells possess unique properties that distinguish them from any other glial precursor cells described to date. The utilization of the cells will solve a number of potential proble...

A Potential Novel Leukemia Therapy by Targeting Leukemia Stem Cells

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 12:09:05 GMT

Applications: This research discovered a novel method to eradicate human leukemia cells. The method involves treating cells with an agent that result in rapid and efficient death of leukemia cells. Specific types of leukemia in which this method is applicable are acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), blast crisis CML (both lymphoid and myeloid forms of the disease), acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), and chronic lymphocytic leukmia (CLL). In addition, the method is useful for lymphoma and multiple myeloma. Advantages: The method specifically targets...

Novel Approach to Prostate Hormone Therapy - Androgen Receptor's New Role and Novel Modes of Intervention

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 12:09:04 GMT

Applications: The AR receptor, targeted via hormone therapy, is a common treatment for suppression of tumors. This data suggests you need to intervene at the AR receptor of the epithelial cells only. Destroying AR receptor activity of the prostate stroma may result in cancer cell proliferation since AR function in the stroma may act as a cancer supressor . Targeting the prostate could cause competing proliferative and supressive effects and could be the issue behind hormone therapy failures of patients who do not receive ablation early in the disease. Advantages: Development of new "ta...

Polyclonal Antibody Therapy for the Treatment of Multiple Myeloma, Other B Cell Lymphomas, and Leukemias

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 12:09:03 GMT

Applications: Polyclonal anti-thymocyte globulin is widely used as an anti-T-cell agent for induction and treatment of acute cellular rejection in solid organ transplantation. The current research has identified thymoglobulin has anti-B-cell activity, inducing rapid, complement independent apoptosis of naïve, activated and plasma B-cells. This technology holds applications in the development of therapies for B-cell related myelomas, lymphomas, and leukemias. Advantage The invention targets multiple surface antigens on malignant B cells and induces apoptosis more efficient...

Caspase Inhibitors as Anti-Cancer Agents

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 12:09:02 GMT

Applications: One of the greatest needs in the field of cancer treatment is a method or reagent that selectively enhances the killing of cancer cells. The most frequently used treatment methods for cancer patients—exposure to radiation and/or chemotherapy—kill healthy cells as effectively, or even more effectively, than they kill cancer cells. Therefore, dose-limiting toxicity is a serious issue with these treatments. This technology demonstrates that specific caspase inhibitors can selectively target and kill cancer cells without exerting toxicity on healthy cells. ...

Photodynamic Therapy with Spatially-Resolved Dual Spectroscopic Monitoring and Related System

david_englert@urmc.rochester.edu — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 13:18:54 GMT

Brief Description: Since 2003, a collaborative research effort between researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) and the Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI) has resulted in the development of a system for delivery of photodynamic therapy(PDT) for the treatment of cancer with capabilities for realtime spectroscopic monitoring and feedback controlled dosimetry. Applications: This invention involves instrumentation developed for delivery of spatially resolved photodynamic therapy(PDT) in vivo, employing real-time measurements of fluorescence emission spectra correc...