The 3D structure of APN protein has been identified, as well as its catalytic domain, allowing for targeted development of drug inhibitors to block APN’s activity. Built upon this structural knowledge, the affinity and APN-binding specificity of existing inhibitors can potentially be improved too. (2013-02-04) (20120219)
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The single camera system and algorithm can obtain the 3D geometry and depth of an object from a single 2D video. This 3D image analysis is possible as long as the distances between the scene or image and the camera are known. Since only one image-recording device is necessary, this method is simpler and less costly than other methods involving multiple camera setups. (2012-10-25) (Z03043)
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The Medical Device Opportunity Licensing Program was designed at the University of Minnesota to make it quick, easy and affordable for design and development companies to license medical device technologies at the idea or proof-of-concept stage. These technologies have a defined market need and value proposition, and require more development to fully determine their commercial feasibility. The program is designed for medical device design and development companies to add technologies to their own portfolio, or to add value through prototype development and sub-license to a larger player or startup for commercialization. (2012-11-08) (MDOL)
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The Account Reporting Tool is a software package that aids users in the creation of financial reports by allowing users to fill in the holes left by central data systems. Data is taken from the financial, payroll, and human resources departments in the University’s data warehouse and is added where data is missing. (Z08050) (2013-03-25)
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Mouse cell line mimics common form of leukemia. (2012-05-02) (20100059)
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The Computer Based Assessment System for Math (CBAS-M) helps educators to determine the math competency of elementary grade students. The assessment test takes just six to ten minutes to administer, rather than four hours for current tests. The system is able to monitor the math progress of the student and identify students at risk of academic failure.(2013-01-10) (20120040)
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Aerodynamic lenses are optimized specifically for molecules and small nanoparticles. These aerodynamic lenses produce collimating beams of nanoparticles as small as 3 nm. This technology allows proteins (normally too small to be focused by previous aerodynamic lenses) to be focused in a beam which allows proteins to be used directly in mass spectrometry and particle deposition systems. (Z05056)
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In the PEG affinity-based cell separation method, cells of interest are captured on a substrate through interactions between a cell surface biomarker and a ligand immobilized on the substrate. Cells can then be detached through the addition of a polyethylene glycol conjugate (PEG) and a heterodimer. The detachment method can be tuned for cells with specific affinity to the substrate using different sized PEGs. The substrate can be washed and reused efficiently by using solutes that competitively bind with the PEG used. (2012-07-26) (20110207)
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A solar thermochemical reactor produces syngas from concentrated solar energy, water, and carbon dioxide. The solar reactor efficiently produces affordable hydrogen that can be used directly as fuel. This reaction recycles carbon dioxide to carbon monoxide, which can be used as a component of syngas. The solar thermochemical reactor represents a major advance in technology that provides a revolutionary and transformational approach that uses abundant solar resources to produce hydrogen. (2012-04-02) (20110019)
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The anomaly detection algorithm operates on discrete categorical data as is it were continuous. It is quicker and less computationally intensive than current algorithms. The software determines the ‘distance’ between two data records using a similarity matrix and flags the data as an outlier if a predetermined condition is not met. Potential applications include data mining, threat detection and fraud detection. (2012-06-18) (Z04105)
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Statistical software that detects structural variations such as large insertions and deletions in short segments (reads) of DNA, can be used to diagnose cancer. Structural variations in short segments (reads) of DNA occur in complex diseases, such as cancer. To use these variations in diagnoses, the process of reading the DNA segments needs to be fast and inexpensive. (2013-01-10) (20110125)
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Ammonia production usually requires the formation of molecular hydrogen followed by contacting the hydrogen with molecular nitrogen over a catalyst in the Haber Bosch process for ammonia synthesis, more commonly known as simply the Haber process. This small-scale liquid anhydrous ammonia reactor allows for the production of ammonia on a distributed and as-needed basis from water vapor and air (nitrogen source). The ammonia synthesis reactor process is also able to produce ammonia at relatively low temperatures as well as atmospheric pressure. Once formed, ammonia can be used in fertilizer production and pharmaceutical production. (Z07182)
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AMSOL is a computational chemistry software program that calculates the free energy of a solvated molecule. The software application calculates the change in energy when molecules are dissolved in water or an organic solvent. (Z05201)
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The anomaly detection algorithm assesses the overall probability of systematic failure in complex systems by using both physical and statistical data in tandem to assess the systematic risk value. (2013-01-22) (20110023)
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Two vesamicol derived compounds with anti cholinergic action have been developed. These compounds can be used to modify acetylcholine activity in the synaptic cleft. They are pharmaceutically acceptable and delivery methods for the compounds have also been disclosed. The drug can be used to treat heart conditions such as arrythmias or to treat chemical agents by modulating cholinergic activity in the synaptic cleft. These compounds are less lipophillic compared to other VAChT antognists and thus can attain easy access to the brain. (2012-12-13) (97061)
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A group of small molecules have been discovered that are potent monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1) inhibitors and can be used to treat hypoxic regions in tumors. MCT1 inhibitors disrupt the metabolism of the tumor cells with minimal damage to healthy cells. These molecules are potential anticancer and immunosuppressive agents. (2012-07-12) (20120012)
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An artificial cornea based on collagen and laminin that enable tissue and cell growth into a synthetic material (silica) that is known for its superior mechanical and optical as well as biocompatibility properties. (2011-12-12) (Z09049)
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The Probability of Repeated Admission (PraTM) elder health assessment survey identifies senior citizens who are at high risk of repeated hospital admissions and extensive use of health care services. The early prediction of hospital readmission risk helps those patients receive better medical attention, which will result in better health for them, and lower expenses for hospitals and senior health insurance programs. (97145)
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WK-1 is an immortalized chicken embryo fibroblast cell line. (2012-05-02) (Z04191)
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Avian clonal variant cell line improves Marek's Disease vaccine for poultry. (2012-05-02) (20120137)
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This retrovirus free cell line allows for the production of human and animal vaccines and is useful for developing vaccines which are not susceptible to retrovirus contamination. This is important because it will reduce the side effects of a vaccine developed from this cell line, and reduce the chance of vaccine recall by the FDA. (2012-05-07)(95149)
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A lantibiotic, derived from culture of Bifidobacterium longum, has natural bactericidal action against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, including E.Coli and Salmonella. It has broad potential applications to be used as a preservative to extend shelf life or antibiotic in pharmaceutical, food and nutrition industries. (Z07178)
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Cationic peptides could be used as an alternative to treat staph infections in place of antibiotics. Bacteriostatic cationic peptide analogs block the ability of S. aureus to produce exotoxins, thus inhibiting their ability to colonize. Blocking colonization will stop the staph infection in its first stage and prevent the bacteria from becoming pathogenic. (2013-04-03) (20110209)
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A method of identifying, producing, and using as probiotics certain Bifidobacterium longum strains that inhibit gram positive and gram negative bacteria and promote healthy GI function has been developed. These strains function in the large intestine where they secrete an iron binding molecule that depletes the iron supply for unwanted iron-dependent bacteria and therefore afford protection of the large intestine from food-borne pathogens. (2012-12-18) (Z00046)
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The University of Minnesota developed bio-based monomer chains efficiently graft onto acrylate to make a bio-based pressure sensitive adhesive with similar performance characteristics to other pressure sensitive adhesives. This technology can be scaled up using acrylate emulsion polymerization, an existing manufacturing technology, and results in a PSA containing up to 60% bio-based content. (20110026)
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The biocompatible material can be used as a coating for medical devices to eliminate complications such as thrombosis formation associated with body implants. (2012-20-12) (94123)
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Biodegradable, non-toxic magnetic nanoparticles have superior biodegradation properties and many in-vivo biomedicine applications. The increase in biocompatibility for these molecules is due to their biodegradation products being basic trace elements found in the human body. These nanoparticles maintain a high magnetic moment and sharp temperature transition properties with the added benefit of being biodegradable. (2012-09-21) (20120036)
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Biodegradable epoxy elastomers based on an epoxy core structure are synthesized using “green chemistry” principles, and can be used as adhesives and coatings for biomedical devices, drug delivery, 3-D scaffolds for cell culture and tissue engineering, and elastic tissue repair and replacement. (2012-05-29) (20120103)
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A new method allows direct synthesis of a biobased polymer, poly (3-hydroxypropionic acid), from 3-hydroxpropionic acid, a commercial monomer that is derived from corn. The method uses a single vessel reactor for simple synthesis and rapid scale up. The method results in a higher molecular weight polymer using a process with lower toxicity than competing technologies. (Z05135)
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Polylactic acid, although renewable, suffers from extreme brittleness and low impact strength which hampers many commercial applications for this renewable plastic. The University of Minnesota has developed a way to graft a co-polymer onto polylactic acid in order to strengthen the plastic beyond the capability of commercial additives. This biodegradable plastic could replace high impact polystyrene in commercial applications such as engineered plastics and packaging. (Z09084)
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A biodegradable thermoplastic has been produced from a lignin derivative that has properties similar to polystyrene. This method for creating renewable plastic uses the excess lignin generated from pulp mill operations, bioethanol production, and chemical and pharmaceutical production from plant material. It is also a renewable and biodegradable alternative to polystyrene, a material which is derived from petroleum and not biodegradable. (99187)
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Biodiesel can be produced from dry distillers grains with solubles (DDGS), leftover from corn consumed in ethanol production using this chemical process. It is an add-on system placed at the end of an existing ethanol production plant for additional revenue. The process converts corn oil extracted from the DDGS into biodiesel, and further refines the biodiesel into a useable biofuel. This biofuel is an alternative to biodiesel formed from soybeans. (Z04005)
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A three dimensional human thorax software package for impedance simulation, ZMIND, provides effective ways to determine bioelectrical current patterns and impedance measurements between various electrode combinations. The 3D human thorax simulation model is constructed based on actual human MRI scans. Up to 36 tissue types were identified and included in the model, providing high-resolution anatomical details in the heart and lung regions. The software can be used to design electrocardiographic, pacemaker, and defibrillation devices. (Z05175)
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Electronic light detectors can be used to image and/or map biological samples and for DNA chip analysis. In contrast to conventional biological imaging techniques, this method scans across the sample and detects multiple images constructed from light emitted by the biological sample. (2013-03-14) (Z02049)
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A biological pathway that produces isobutyric acid from sugar-based feedstocks has been developed using fungal and bacterial enzymes. This biological pathway is more environmentally friendly and direct than chemical synthesis. Isobutyric acid is a commodity chemical used to produce methyacrylic acid (MAA) and methyl methacrylate (MMA) which can further be processed into plastics, adhesives, ion exchange resins, and lubrication additives. (20110077)
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A biomedical sensor technique uses a giant magnetoresistor (GMR) sensor and magnetic nanoparticles to distinguish nanoparticles with different magnetic properties. The device is low cost, portable and high signal to noise compared to fluorescence techniques. This magnetic coloring allows, for example, observation of the reactions between proteins and cell membranes and a high-throughput method to sort molecules and cells. (2012-08-02) (20100020)
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Plastic Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) microstructures can be formed in bacterial hosts. These materials may be applied in orthopedic devices, orthopedic implants, and other implantable medical devices. The biopolymers are synthesized in bacteria through use of a polymerase enzyme within the organisms. The microbes intake a variety of renewable feedstocks and the produced polymers within the cells can later be extracted from the organisms. (99107)
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This device is a polymer-based, self-centering, bioresorbable occlusion device for congenital cardiovascular defects. These defects include atrial septal defects, ventricular septal defects, patent ductus arteriosii, patent foramen ovale, and arterial punctures. Current methods for treating these problems include metallic parts that cause the device to be bulky and difficult to retrieve. By using a bioresorbable material, the implant can be eventually be replaced by native fibrous tissue and completely occlude the defect. (20111219)(Z02056)
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The University of Minnesota has developed a method to produce glycerin-free biodiesel using a proprietary, genetically engineered enzyme. This method reduces the costs and improves the purity of biodiesel production. The method shows great promise to use cellulosic feedstock. (Z07163)
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Biotransformation with improved redox balance uses renewable carbon feed stocks to create a myriad of products, including chemicals, fuels, additives, and pharmaceutical compounds. The technology reduces the redox imbalance without diverting carbon to side products which improves the overall efficiency. The technology doesn’t require expensive co-factors which reduces overall cost. This technology is an alternative platform to traditional industrial microbial fermentation, which is currently used by a wide range of companies making a variety of products (fuels, specialty chemicals, pharmaceutical compounds, vitamins, enzymes, amino acids, and organic acids). (2012-01-31) (20100174)
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The Observation and Surveillance Camera Placement Method consists of algorithms and formulas to improve video camera recognition of human activity by providing the best camera position for observation. The Camera Placement Method works for single- or multi- camera systems, and optimizes the placement of multiple cameras to idealize the cameras’ view of tasks being performed in an area. The Camera Placement Method incorporates the environment and the subjects’ paths of motion in the scene in order to determine optimal camera placement for observation and scene surveillance. The Camera Placement Method can be used for surveillance, activity recognition, traffic monitoring, and other subject tracking applications. (Z05182)
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New molecules, that are analogs of HA 14-1, have been developed and target Bcl-2 as a potential cancer treatment. HA 14-1 is a qualified antagonist against anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 which causes resistance to cancer treatment in cancer cells. One of the analogs, sHA 14-1, is insensitive to the drug resistance induced by anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins. It also synergizes the anti-cancer activities of both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic stimuli, increasing the potential of sHA 14-1 in cancer therapy. Use of sHA 14-1 can sensitize tumors to cancer treatments which results in lower effective dosages and lower harmful side effects of conventional cancer treatments. (Z07120)
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A method to inhibit ornithine decarboxylase that is suitable for use as a pharmaceutical for the treatment of cancer has been developed. The compound has been shown to be effective at ornithine decarboxylase inhibition potentially without the hearing loss associated with eflornithine. This invention provides a method for treating cancer as well as a method for inhibiting initial cancer development. (2013-01-09) (20110052)
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The protein Annexin II can work through a mechanism to boost immunotherapy treatments. Annexin II possesses several attributes which makes it desirable as a cancer vaccine adjuvant, most importantly it selectively increases the shuttling of exogenous antigen to the MHC I pathway, a key antigen-presenting process associated with tumor killing. (2012-08-02) (20100242)
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A cancer vaccine composed of CpG and glioma cell lysate has the ability to treat and cure drug resistant glioblastoma tumors. Glioma tumors are lethal and carry a very short survival time. This new cancer vaccine elicits an anti-tumor immune response to kill these brain tumors. This vaccine has doubled the median survival in rat models and 50% of rats treated with this vaccine showed long term survival. (Z07013)
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Canine cell lines include melanoma, hemangiosarcoma and osteosarcoma cell lines and tissue samples for research. (2012-05-03) (20110168)
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A planting mixture of switchgrasses and legumes has been shown to sequester carbon at high levels on degraded or marginal lands. This mixture can be used to produce a carbon-negative biofuel or produce carbon offsets which can be sold under the Kyoto protocol or Chicago Climate Exchange. (2012-02-22) (Z08031)
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Immunotoxins are important treatments of drug resistant carcinomas, cancerous tumors, and glioblastomas. Immunotoxins are able to target and kill tumor cells which are not responsive to chemotherapy treatments. By tuning immunotoxins to recognize certain cytokine receptors expressed on the surface of carcinoma cells, the effectiveness of these treatments can be increased greatly and specific cancer types can be targeted. (Z07098)
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Precise localization of the source of heart anomalies, such as ventricular tachycardia, arrhythmia, atrial fibrillation, and atrial flutter, determines the effectiveness of treatment. Testing heart electrical activity and repolarization is performed with either a non-invasive electrode jacket or the more standard catheter-based approach. The heart electrical activity algorithm creates a realistic 3-dimensional volumetric image of the electrophysiology of the myocardium and endocardium. This algorithm guides cardiac ablation of the electrically disruptive tissue and improve clinical outcome over current treatments. (Z06090)
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The ventricular assist device with automatic optimization of parameters provides real-time monitoring for congestive heart failure patients. Heart disease accounts for nearly 25% of all deaths in the United States each year. With over 600,000 new cases each year, the advancement of treatment options is crucial. A need exists for VADs that can detect changes in cardiovascular function and optimize performance accordingly or alert health care professionals if external intervention is required. (2012-10-22) (20120320)
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A biological synthesis of carotenoids results in higher concentrations and fewer impurities than plant based extraction and may be less expensive than chemical synthesis. Furthermore, biosynthesis results in unique carotenoids that are not found in nature which could have far reaching implications in the food colorant or nutraceutical industry. (Z05100)
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A cell delivery system to target sites in the extracellular space of the brain. This MRI compatible invention is designed to maintain cell viability and inhibit cell aggregation. The device is minimally invasive, causing little to no damage during insertion, allowing for a greater likelihood of cell implantation. The correct nutrient supply of the cell suspension is maintained and waste products are removed during cell injection to maximize cell viability. For extra precision and accuracy of cell delivery during cell therapy, the tip of the device can be seen and guided via MRI. (2012-11-26) (Z01124)
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The CDesK© CD provides Design and Manufacturing Specifications for a durable, mobile, versatile and adaptable workstation for education and professional design environments. Shelves and accessories, mounted on the unique “ladder-back” design, encourage the user to configure the workstation to suit the way they work and enables interaction with the work environment. (Z07167)
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A method has been developed that utilizes cryopreservative agents for improving the survivability of hematopoietic cells when frozen. Using a balanced electrolyte solution with an arabinogalactan equivalent, a high-survival rate of hematopoietic cells is maintained. It contains a much smaller concentration of glycerol compared to other methods and does not use DMSO, thus decreasing cell loss due to osmotic stress and DMSO toxicity. This technique will increase effectiveness of cell therapeutics by increasing cell viability following cryopreservation. Overall, this cell cryopreservation method will enhance lymphocyte treatments for tumors, especially following bone marrow transplants, as well as treatments for viral infections. (2012-12-13) (98119)
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Robust microbes capable of efficiently producing cellulosic ethanol and able to withstand the toxic byproducts of cellulose hydrolysis processes have been developed. A major challenge in cellulosic ethanol production is that the sugar feedstocks that microbes require to produce ethanol by fermentation are often created in the same locations as toxic byproducts of the sugar-creation process itself. (Z07117)
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Magnetic resonance software for researchers is available from the Center for Magnetic Resonance Research at the University of Minesota. (20120725) (CMRR)
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Surgical simulators for physician training are produced and adapted by the Center for Research in Education and Simulation Technologies (CREST). Driven by Dr. Rob Sweet, CREST Lab focuses research and innovation on solving real issues and expanding the use of surgical simulation in physician training. (2012-08-30) (20110220)
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The creation of nanomaterials and complex proteins by self-assembly chemical synthesis of multivalent proteins allows for chemical control over the process to engineer specific nanomaterials and complex protein structures. This has a wide range of applications including the self-assembly of designed multivalent antibodies with therapeutic and diagnostic utility, drug delivery molecules, and self-assembly of enzymes. (Z05097)
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The bioreactor creates “designer organisms” that utilize renewable resources to produce cellulosic fuels, cellulosic chemicals, and cellulosic ethanol. Microbe growing bioreactors are vital systems in the development of these organisms that must be able to consume a variety of feedstocks, survive the toxic by-products of the production process, and must withstand a variety of temperatures and conditions. Such robust organisms are a major focus of biofuel companies that are currently investing significant amounts of money into biotechnology research and the development of these organisms. (2012-05-07)(Z02025)
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The Reverse Plug Cytometer combines the positive features of traditional flow cytometers, laser scanning, and imaging cytometers but specifically, enables single cell tracking of large numbers of cells. (2012-05-03) (Z07102)
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This CMOS image sensor technology enables sharp imaging of fast-moving objects as well as twice the dynamic range of other CMOS image sensors. Dynamic range is a metric of how well a camera performs under a wide array of light intensities and it is especially useful when taking pictures outdoors. This technology utilizes an existing and proven CMOS image sensor that is cost-effectively altered using existing CMOS chip tooling. (2012-01-12) (Z07093 Z08040)
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A method, using, co-cultured microbes, Synechococcus and Shewanella, to produce long-chain hydrocarbons directly from sunlight and water, eliminates the costs and challenges associated with obtaining, transporting, and processing cellulosic feedstocks to make vehicle fuels. The technology does not require large amounts of dedicated agricultural land which eliminates the competition with existing food sources. The research has been funded through a DOE ARPA-E grant. (20100084)
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The Frontenac gris grape is a cold hardy grape variety that is an excellent grape for table, dessert and ice wines. Frontenac gris vines are “grower-friendly” due to their winter hardiness, disease resistance, strong vigor, desirable growth habitat and high yield potential. (2012-04-06) (Z02115)
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The La Crescent grape is a very cold hardy grape cultivar that produces a white wine of excellent quality, reminiscent of the cultivar Vignoles. La Crescent vines have tolerated vineyard temperatures as low as -36 F in early February with only minor bud loss. It ripens in mid-season. (2012-04-09) (Z01051)
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The Marquette grape is a cold hardy, red wine grape variety with excellent disease resistance. Marquette grape’s high sugar and moderate acidity make it very manageable in the winery. As a red wine, Marquette represents a new standard in cold hardy viticulture and enology. (2012-04-05) (Z05103)
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A high-frequency AC-AC transformer requires only two semiconductor switches with significant simpler switching. The transformer does not have an intermediate DC-conversion step, which eliminates the need for a bulky capacitor. The overall system has lower complexity and higher reliability due to the fewer number of switches and simpler switching. While a hundred-fold smaller than conventional, low-frequency transformers, the power efficiency is comparable. The compact power transformer is well-suited to applications in wind energy or power electronics, naval vessels, aircraft, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and other smart grid applications. (Z09057)
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The competing endogenous RNA database encompasses all potential ceRNA and allows users to access ceRNA specifics with a list which they can scroll through. The database provides mRNA and miRNA information and can help lower costs of drug discovery and development. (2012-10-17) (20120302)
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Online learning modules for teaching complementary therapies and holistic medicine are provide reputable resources and information in the field of alternative complementary medicine, which has continued to gain exposure and popularity. The content of each online learning module meets competencies required for accredited medical, nursing, and pharmacy courses. (2012-06-07)
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Compounds with a unique mechanism of action that involves boosting a key DNA repair enzyme in the skin have been developed. When skin treated with these compounds is exposed to UV light, the epidermis and collagen structure and levels are both maintained. Extensive testing has shown the compounds to prevent DNA damage and maintain youthful looking skin. (2012-06-21) (20110151)
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The Computer Based Assessment System for Reading (CBAS-R) software program provides educators with a formative assessment for elementary grades that includes screening, progress monitoring, and skills analysis to be used in the classroom. (2013-03-06) (20100205)
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This surgical training aid improves the quality of training for surgical procedures by providing real-time virtual reality simulations. The technology provides an interactive learning environment with high-fidelity models using real tissue properties with realistic textures. The surgical simulation software applies real tissue properties to a virtual environment allowing students to quickly, effectively, and repetitively simulate a surgery. (Z07108)
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The Minnesota Laboratory for Low-Vision Research at the University of Minnesota has designed a continuous-text reading chart to measure reading acuity, critical print size and reading speed. The charts can be used to measure reading vision for people with normal vision and those with a wide range of vision impairments (“low vision”). The MNREAD Charts are available in both English and Spanish versions and are used by eye care professionals, rehabilitation specialists, and vision researchers. The MNREAD chart extends the capability of eye examinations by measuring the patient’s reading acuity, maximum reading speed, and critical print size, which is the smallest print size that supports the maximum reading speed. MNREAD Charts can be used to prescribe optical corrections for reading, complete low vision assessments, and prescribe magnifiers or other reading aids. (94074)
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Software-based error pattern correction mechanism increases hard disk storage capacity by 10-20% with no physical modification of the magnetic elements of a disk drive. This error pattern correction for cyclic codes has a greater than 0.6dB SNR ration gain compared to the traditional Reed-Solomon code read channel method for error correction and also results in a lower computational demand. (2012-06-04) (Z07095)
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A dairy farm application for mobile devices allows for the standardization in which dairy herds are evaluated in regards to cow comfort, animal well-being, biosafety, food safety, nutrition as well as many other factors pertaining to the dairy industry. This streamlined approach using mobile devices allows for a much more efficient and practical method for data collection and sharing that will help to revolutionize the way in which the dairy industry professionals can access critical information. (2012-04-24) (20120138)
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The method for delivering large precursors for chemical vapor deposition (CVD) based on sublimation in a fluidized bed provides more reliable vapor pressure of larger precursor molecules and reduces particle contamination. The fluidized bed consists of either pure precursor or precursor mixed with an inert powder. When operating at a carrier gas flow above the minimum required to fluidize the bed, the system significantly outperforms the current technology such as fixed-bed systems. (2012-10-11) (Z05074)
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Precise vehicle position can be determined by installing radio frequency identification (RFID) tags encoded with road name, specific lane, direction of travel, and distance from known reference information. Vehicle Positioning Systems complement and extend the reach of GPS devices by removing the reliance on satellite signals. RFID tags can be inexpensively used in intelligent transportation systems and have the potential to enable bus location automation, high occupancy tolling lanes, rear-end crash prevention, in-vehicle signing, and vehicle navigation without GPS. (2012-05-23) (Z05077)
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The Digital Pathology Virtual Microscope Slides for Hematology allow medical students and allied health professionals to access hematology microscope slides through the use of an online database for distance learning and enhanced curriculum delivery. This database is the first with a high quality resolution of 83X oil immersion. High resolution images are necessary for the proper examination of blood cells. The Digital Pathology Virtual Microscope Slides are less expensive than replicating, storing, and creating new glass slide sets, and are convenient to access. The development of the virtual microscope database can transform traditional teaching methods by removing the reliance on physical space, equipment, and specimens to a model that is solely dependent upon computer-internet access. The slide sets are a tremendous resource in the instruction of new clinical laboratory scientists for their roles as qualified professionals in the health care industry. (20110025)
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The Programmable Reconfigurable Fluid 3D Manufacturing process works for two dimensional and three dimensional components, is highly parallel, and is much faster than robotic manufacturing. It can be used to assemble multi-chip modules, hybrid systems, and micro-opto-electro-mechanical systems that consist of non-identical components. The programmability and the ability to recognize different objects are important advantages this process has over other techniques. This manufacturing process is based on a new form of directed self-assembly that uses geometric shape recognition to identify different components. (2012-03-06) (Z05009)
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DNA electrophoresis uses microfluidic technology to separate DNA strands which increases the speed at which the separation process takes place with a much higher efficiency. The technology, called Nanofence, is made up of an ordered array of posts that are embedded in the microfluidic chip used in microchip electrophoresis. The posts in the Nanofence technology are placed within the channels on the microfluidic chips. Gaps in between the posts are based on the size of DNA allowing for customized separation conditions for specific needs. (2012-05-31) (20110194)
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The Driver Assistive System is a technology that provides navigation assistance for road going vehicles in low visibility conditions. This technology facilitates accurate navigation, lane keeping, and collision avoidance in poor conditions such as fog, snow, and rain. The surrounding environment is revealed to the driver through a Head Up Display (HUD), allowing drivers to view the HUD screen and the windshield simultaneously. (Z00053)
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A recently developed lupulone compound and pharmaceutically acceptable delivery method have been shown to act in cancer inhibition and bacterial growth inhibition, even those that are resistant to multiple drugs. The compound, hexahydrocolupulone, is highly potent and has a relatively low IC50. The compound likely stops inhibition by interfering with the G1-S phase transition. This compound could be used in constructing a more effective agent for the treatment of multidrug resistant cancer lines and multidrug-resistant bacteria strains. (2012-12-18) (91055)
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Drug resistant tuberculosis treatment using compounds proven to inhibit a vital enzyme in mycobacterium tuberculosis not found in humans and is not required by the host flora. The bacteria that cause TB lose their virulence without the function of this enzyme. Since the target is novel, it is expected to be active against multidrug resistant tuberculosis and extensively drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR and XDR). (2012-05-31) (Z06066)
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A dual-mode ultrasound system for high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) offers temporal resolution on the order of milliseconds. The system is closed-loop and offers real-time intensity modulation based on continuous monitoring of tissue response to the HIFU beam. This method offers improved temporal resolution over MRI-guided procedures, which is expected to improve clinical outcome and reduce treatment time. (20100235)
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An E. coli strain has been genetically engineered that can convert unrefined glycerol to ethanol in a fast and high yield E. coli fermentation process. Glycerol waste (also called glycerin or glycerine) is the major waste product in biodiesel manufacturing processes, and this E. coli strain can efficiently convert this biodiesel waste into ethanol, a type of biofuel. Existing processes utilize E. coli for bacterial fermentation to convert glycerol to ethanol, but at much lower yields and much slower rates. (Z09192)
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For cost effective management of chronic heart disease, implantable devices can be used for early detection of atrial fibrillation and pulmonary edema. With slight changes to hardware and software, current pacemakers and defibrillators could be used for monitoring the stress of the left atrium on a continuous basis. (Z05107)
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The streamlined incident database approach to incident tracking provides education abroad offices a way to manage incident reports and relay pertinent information to necessary individuals. The system uses a more user-friendly interface that incorporates a simple “click and enter” method to gather information on any type of incident including crime abroad and theft abroad along with other incidents involving international students, allowing for easy access and use. (2012-10-25) (20130003)
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Evacuation route planning to effectively evacuate people in emergency situations is of increasing importance with growing populations. The efficient route planning software produces high quality solutions for emergency evacuation and large event transportation planning. This technology significantly reduces the computational cost compared to existing software because of a dartboard network structure using node-independent paths to speed up the capacity constrained routing problem . The evacuation route planning algorithm is scalable to the number of people being moved and the size of the transportation network. The introduction of the dartboard network structure helps to explain how to organize and group evacuation routes, decreasing congestion in disaster situations. (2012-08-09) (20120196)
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Bacterial growth and biofilm formation can be inhibited using a method that generates a low frequency electromagnetic field (EMF) on all surfaces of a nanoparticle-coated medical device. This will help slow the rate of nosocomial infections.
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The enhanced computed tomography scan can recover 3D CT images taken within a limited angular range or limited quality of data. The proposed method significantly reduces undesirable image artifacts and shows robustness to noise. The enhanced CT scan method can reduce the operation and product costs, improve the quality of CT scanner, and ultimately reduce CT radiation risks. (2012-06-20) (Z07020)
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Using a porous sleeve as a filter placed over the balloon catheter on a percutaneous transluminal device protects from embolisms and reduces the risks associated with angioplasty, atherectomy and other similar procedures. Percutaneous transluminal devices can dislodge particles, such as calcium and plaque, during the procedure. These particles can block vessels, often causing severe complications including death. For procedures using these types of devices, there is a crucial need for a method of preventing these particles from blocking vessels without inhibiting the mobility of the guidewire and deployment device. (2012-10-30) (Z03040)
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FINPACK Farm Financial Analysis and Management Software helps producers, lenders, and agricultural professionals evaluate farms’ financial positions, explore alternatives, and make informed farm management decisions. The software prepares balance sheets, analyzes financial performance, and projects cash flows, profitability, liquidity and operating credit requirements for any portion of a year or up to 10 years. Specialized software versions are available for producers, lenders, and agricultural professionals. FINPACK is the most popular financial software in farm management. (89135)
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A reliable and simple transfer-and-bond process method for producing integrated silicon photonics on flexible plastic films solves many of the issues found in current fabrication processes. In the flexible electronics and photonics industry, there are challenges that are in the production process, namely reliability and consistency. (2013-05-06) (20130121)
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The Fluid Mechanics Simulation Software tool, LBHydraTM, is a modular, extensible Lattice-Boltzmann simulator capable of modeling a wide array of fluid mechanical behavior. These modules transfer the calculation from CPU to GPU, thereby increasing the speed of the simulation by a factor of nearly 40x. (20100042)
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Using difluorocarbene, polymers can be fluorinated under mild conditions to improve strength, chemical and oxidative stability. Difluorocarbene is a reactive species which readily reacts with unsaturated parts of the polymer chain. (2012-08-09) (Z00077)
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FAST (Formative Assessment System for Teachers) is a suite of assessment progress monitoring tools designed to help educators screen, monitor progress, and analyze reading skills of students from kindergarten to fifth grade. Each question in the predictive assessment tests is individually tailored to the test taker. Thanks to the individualized nature of these adaptive tests, they are more efficient and effective than traditional testing methods. (2013-04-18) (FAST20100205)
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The Formative Assessment Instrumentation and Procedures for Reading reduces the measurement error of progress monitoring with Curriculum Based Measurement of Oral Reading. An improved development procedure establishes reading passages that enhance the quality of progress monitoring by increasing the reliability and accuracy of the reading assessment. (2013-03-06) (20100206)
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The DNA aptamer that binds specifically to the human protein fractalkine (FKN) is better suited for targeted drug delivery than other technologies such as antibodies. These aptamers have shown to be non-immunogenic and non-toxic in preclinical and clinical tests. Fractalkine is a recently discovered chemokine, and it acts as an adhesion molecule for leukocytes. This feature makes fractalkine a preferred candidate for targeting. (2012-10-11) (20120074)
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Functionalized nanoparticles possess an enzyme capable of digesting fibrin in a tumor’s extracellular matrix. This allows the nanoparticles to deliver anticancer drugs more effectively because their movement is facilitated. (2012-06-07) (20120116)
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A geothermal power generation system has been designed that will allow a power plant to be run from geothermal heat energy and uses carbon dioxide (CO2) gases accumulated from carbon dioxide sequestration. This method is a superior alternative to traditional geothermal power plants because it uses carbon dioxide in place of groundwater as the working fluid. Water is significantly more difficult to heat in low temperature thermal wells and the hydrofracturing required to use water as the working fluid has been linked to earthquakes. This geothermal power generation system could be used in more locations throughout the world, and without the potential of seismic shocks. (Z09126)
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The German Grammar Guide iPad app helps students learn the German language by providing different and effective means of accessing relevant grammar information for advanced and beginning students. (20130195) (2013-02-26)
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