Patents by Inventor Michelle LaPlaca

Michelle LaPlaca has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Publication number: 20210268135
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods of disrupting cell-to-cell communication. An exemplary method comprises transmitting one or more microwave signals to a communication molecule located in an environment having a plurality of cells. The one or more microwave signals can comprise a first microwave signal and a second microwave signal. The first microwave signal can have a first frequency corresponding to frequency of a first peak in a microwave spectrum associated with rotational modes of the communication molecule. The second microwave signal can have a second frequency corresponding to a frequency of a second peak in the microwave spectrum associated with the rotational modes of the communication molecule.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2021
    Publication date: September 2, 2021
    Inventors: William Hunt, Kyle Spencer Davis, Michelle LaPlaca, Chris Ward, John Alexander Herrmann
  • Patent number: 10983068
    Abstract: Systems and methods include directing limited frequencies of microwave signals toward target molecules, driving a motion of the target molecules to impact molecular recognition. In one implementation, a microwave spectra associated with the rotational modes of a target molecule is obtained. From peaks in the spectra, a mode of molecular movement is identified and a microwave signal profile is generated for driving a motion of binding portions of the molecule associated with the identified mode. Microwave signals are generated based on the signal profile for output by antennas. For example, the microwave signals can be can be used to impede the binding of quorum sensing molecules by receptors of P. aeruginosa. In one implementation, the antennas can be placed in a catheter for placement in a patient. In another implementation, the antennas can be placed in a sleeve or other device for use adjacent to the skin of a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Assignee: Georgia Tech Research Corp.
    Inventors: William Hunt, Kyle Spencer Davis, Michelle LaPlaca, Chris Ward, John Alexander Herrmann
  • Patent number: 10506966
    Abstract: Methods and systems relate to determining sensory motor performance based on user non-postural movements within a generated dynamic virtual environment. The generated environment requires users to: (i) utilize primary sensor inputs (e.g., vision, vestibular sensation and somatosensation); (ii) assess the dynamic virtual environment; and (iii) integrate and translate those inputs into movement to control the dynamic virtual environment. The methods may include receiving non-postural user input with respect to a state of one or more attributes of a dynamic virtual environment provided on a user interface for one or more sessions, the one or more attributes including a control object and a target which moves with respect to the control object; determining performance information based on the user input and the state of the one or more attributes for the one or more sessions; and determining sensory motor performance information from the performance information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2019
    Assignees: Emory University, Georgia Tech Research Corporation
    Inventors: Russell K. Gore, Michelle LaPlaca, David W. Wright, Tamara Espinoza, Shean Phelps, Brian Liu, Stephen Smith, Nicole Kosoris, Alessio Medda, Courtney Crooks
  • Publication number: 20170281069
    Abstract: Methods and systems relate to determining sensory motor performance based on user non-postural movements within a generated dynamic virtual environment. The generated environment requires users to: (i) utilize primary sensor inputs (e.g., vision, vestibular sensation and somatosensation); (ii) assess the dynamic virtual environment; and (iii) integrate and translate those inputs into movement to control the dynamic virtual environment. The methods may include receiving non-postural user input with respect to a state of one or more attributes of a dynamic virtual environment provided on a user interface for one or more sessions, the one or more attributes including a control object and a target which moves with respect to the control object; determining performance information based on the user input and the state of the one or more attributes for the one or more sessions; and determining sensory motor performance information from the performance information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2015
    Publication date: October 5, 2017
    Inventors: Russell K. Gore, Michelle LaPlaca, David W. Wright, Tamara Espinoza, Shean Phelps, Brian Liu, Stephen Smith, Nicole Kosoris, Alessio Medda, Courtney Crooks
  • Publication number: 20070027406
    Abstract: Cognitive assessment systems and methods that provide an integrated solution for evaluating the presence or absence of cognitive impairment. The present invention is used to test cognitive functions of an individual including information processing speed, working memory, work list learning and recall, along with variations of these tasks. Immersive and non-immersive systems and methods are disclosed. Testing and results feedback using the present invention may be completed in real time, typically in less than 15 minutes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Applicants: Georgia Tech Research Corporation, Emory University
    Inventors: Michelle LaPlaca, David Wright