Abstract: We describe RFID systems for localization and proximity detection and with improved read rates. The systems include three components, (a) RFID readers, (b) passive and/or semipassive tags, (c) sensor-tags (STs), (d) STs integrated with sensors, and (e) and processing elements. The key new elements are the STs, which are like regular tags that communicate with RFID readers on the principle of backscattering. However, they have an additional functionality of reading the communication of standard tags in their physical proximity and reporting it, if queried, to an RFID reader or a processing element. They can also use other types of communication with the RFID readers and processing elements. These functionalities allow for a variety of new solutions to many RFID problems some of which are described in this document.

Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) system and method for tracking and locating an RFID tag is disclosed. The system includes a reader, an identification tag, at least one sensor-tag and a data processing element. The reader is used to initiate a query for an object with an RFID tag. The identification tag is attached to the object. The RFID tag responds to the query. At least one sensor-tag is positioned near the RFID tag. The at least one sensor-tag functions to receive the response of the RFID tag. The sensor-tag determines whether the identification tag is within a predetermined sensor-tag range. Based upon this determination, the at least one sensor-tag communicates a response signal to the reader when the at least one sensor-tag receives a predetermined request signal from the reader. Based on the responses of the sensor-tags, the location of the object with the responding RFID tag can be calculated.

Abstract: The disclosure provides a biomarker and algorithm for identifying and detecting neural stem and progenitor cells and their use in studying mammalian brains. The disclosure further provides magnetic resonance spectroscopy methods and an image enhancing algorithm for the study of the proliferation of these cells and the associated neurogenesis in the live mammalian brain.