Patents Assigned to Clemson University
  • Elastin stabilization of connective tissue
    Patent number: 7713543
    Abstract: A method and product are provided for the treatment of connective tissue weakened due to destruction of tissue architecture, and in particular due to elastin degradation. The treatment agents employ certain unique properties of phenolic compounds to develop a protocol for reducing elastin degradation, such as that occurring during aneurysm formation in vasculature. According to the invention, elastin can be stabilized in vivo and destruction of connective tissue, such as that leading to life-threatening aneurysms in vasculature, can be tempered or halted all together. The treatment agents can be delivered or administered acutely or chronically according to various delivery methods, including sustained release methods incorporating perivascular or endovascular patches, use of microsphere carriers, hydrogels, or osmotic pumps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Clemson University Research Foundation
    Inventors: Narendra R. Vyavahare, Jason C. Isenburg, Dan T. Simionescu
  • Tumor and mutation suppressing plant extract
    Patent number: 7691417
    Abstract: A compound derived from an extract of vegetative tissue of plants of the Genus Shortia demonstrates antitcarcinogenic potential by inhibiting the growth and development formation of tumors in living tissue in response to an organism known to cause the initiation of tumors in living tissue and by reducing mutation rates in living tissues exposed to a known mutagen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Clemson University Research Foundation
    Inventors: Sandra L. Gray, N. Dwight Camper
  • Adhesin-specific nanoparticles and process for using same
    Patent number: 7682631
    Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to compositions useful in preventing and/or treating disease due to infection by any of a variety of biologically active pathogenic microorganisms. The compositions include nanoparticles formed of a hydrophobic polymeric core, hydrophilic linking agents bound to the core, and biofunctional materials bound to the linking agents. The biofunctional materials are functionally identical to receptors on host cell surfaces that can be recognized and bound by adhesins on the surface of the targeted pathogenic adhesin-bearing microorganisms. In one embodiment, the binding action between the nanoparticles and the microorganisms can lead to the formation of large agglomerated complexes, which can then be easily removed from an area, including the digestive tract of an infected individual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Clemson University
    Inventors: Fred J. Stutzenberger, Robert A. Latour, Jr., Ya-Ping Sun, Tzuen R. Tzeng
  • Synthesis of novel monomers containing the trifluorovinylidene group and the cyanato group and polymers thereof
    Patent number: 7674876
    Abstract: Novel hybrid monomers containing both the aryltrifluorovyinyloxyether-group (TFVE-group) and the cyanato-group, their synthesis, and the synthesis of polymers made from these new hybrid monomers are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignees: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Förderung der angewandten Forschung e.V., Clemson University
    Inventors: Christian Dreyer, Monika Bauer, Suresh S. Iyer, Dennis W. Smith
  • DNA-based memory device and method of reading and writing same
    Patent number: 7659590
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a memory device having very high storage density capability. In general, the memory device includes an array of individual memory cells which store information that is assigned a value based on the molecular contents of the memory cell. In a preferred embodiment, the molecules utilized for storing information in the memory cells may be single-strand polynucleotides, for instance single-strand oligonucleotides of between about 5 and about 20 monomer units. The present invention is also directed to methods and systems useful for writing and reading the molecular-based memory devices. In particular, the devices may be written and read via modified atomic force microscopy processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Clemson University
    Inventors: Thomas Boland, Thomas E. Wagner
  • DNA-based memory device and method of reading and writing same
    Patent number: 7659175
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a memory device having very high storage density capability. In general, the memory device includes an array of individual memory cells which store information that is assigned a value based on the molecular contents of the memory cell. In a preferred embodiment, the molecules utilized for storing information in the memory cells may be single-strand polynucleotides, for instance single-strand oligonucleotides of between about 5 and about 20 monomer units. The present invention is also directed to methods and systems useful for writing and reading the molecular-based memory devices. In particular, the devices may be written and read via modified atomic force microscopy processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Clemson University
    Inventors: Thomas Boland, Thomas E. Wagner
  • Process for reducing waste volume
    Patent number: 7651615
    Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to a process for decreasing waste material. The process includes loading organic material into a vessel, supplying ozone and water into the vessel, separating the organic material into solid material and liquid material, and reconditioning water from the liquid material for use again. The ozone oxidizes and breaks down at least a portion of the organic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Clemson University Research Foundation
    Inventor: Annel Kay Greene
  • COMPOSITE POLYMERIC MATERIALS FROM RENEWABLE RESOURCES
    Publication number: 20100000902
    Abstract: Disclosed are environmentally friendly polymeric composite materials and products that can be formed from the composites. The polymeric composites can include a lactide-based polymeric matrix reinforced with fibers derived from renewable resources and optionally including one or more beneficial agents such as, for instance, naturally occurring UV blockers or absorbents, anti-oxidants, anti-microbials, and the like. The composite materials can be formed into a desired structure according to low energy formation processes and can be designed for controlled degradation. In one particular embodiment, the composite materials can be formed to produce containers for storing and protecting environmentally sensitive materials such as pharmaceuticals or nutraceuticals. Beneficially, the disclosed materials can be formed entirely from renewable resources.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2006
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Applicant: Clemson University
    Inventors: Danny H. Roberts, Joseph D. Gangemi, Dennis W. Smith
  • MICROBIAL BASED CHLORINATED ETHENE DESTRUCTION
    Publication number: 20090277831
    Abstract: A mixed culture of Dehalococcoides species is provided that has an ability to catalyze the complete dechlorination of polychlorinated ethenes such as PCE, TCE, cDCE, 1,1-DCE and vinyl chloride as well as halogenated ethanes such as 1,2-DCA and EDB. The mixed culture demonstrates the ability to achieve dechlorination even in the presence of high source concentrations of chlorinated ethenes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2008
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Applicants: Washington Savannah River Co, LLC, Clemson University Research Foundation
    Inventors: Christopher E. Bagwell, David L. Freedman, Robin Brigmon, William B. Bratt, Elizabeth A. Wood
  • Microbial based chlorinated ethene destruction
    Patent number: 7615153
    Abstract: A mixed culture of Dehalococcoides species is provided that has an ability to catalyze the complete dechlorination of polychlorinated ethenes such as PCE, TCE, cDCE, 1,1-DCE and vinyl chloride as well as halogenated ethanes such as 1,2-DCA and EDB. The mixed culture demonstrates the ability to achieve dechlorination even in the presence of high source concentrations of chlorinated ethenes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignees: Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, LLC, Clemson University
    Inventors: Christopher E. Bagwell, David L. Freedman, Robin L. Brigmon, William B. Bratt, Elizabeth A. Wood
  • Impedance-based arc fault determination device (IADD) and method
    Patent number: 7598751
    Abstract: Embodiments according to the present invention provide an Impedance-based Arc-Fault Determination Device (IADD) and method that, when attached to an electrical node on the power system and through observations on voltage, current and phase shift with a step load change, determine the effective Thevenin equivalent circuit or Norton equivalent circuit at the point of test. The device and method determine the expected bolted fault current at the test location of interest, which enables calculation of incident energy and the assignment of a flash-hazard risk category.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignees: Clemson University Research Foundation, Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC
    Inventors: Edward Randolph Collins, Jr., Timothy Lee Smith, Randall J. Emanuel
  • Feed Supplement Delivery System
    Publication number: 20090246321
    Abstract: Disclosed are novel feed supplements for ruminants and methods for making the same. The feed supplements include unsaturated fatty acid encapsulated by a protective coating. Through utilization of the disclosed feed supplements, dietary intake and absorption of unsaturated fatty acids can be increased, due to protection of the ingested unsaturated fatty acids from biohydrogenation in the animal's rumen. The methods of the invention can be utilized to increase unsaturated fatty acid levels in the animal's tissues. Hence, food products obtained from the animal can also have an increased unsaturated fatty acid content and correspondingly lower saturated fatty acid content.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2009
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Applicant: CLEMSON UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Thomas C. Jenkins, Karen J.L. Burg, Steve E. Ellis
  • Hydrothermal growth of hexagonal beryllium borate crystals for use in laser non-linear optical and birefringent applications and devices
    Patent number: 7591896
    Abstract: Single, acentric, hexagonal, beryllium borate crystals having the formula Sr2Be2B2O7 and of a size sufficient for use in a variety of laser and non-optical applications are formed by a hydrothermal method. Alternate structures are formed by partially substituting the strontium ion with at least one other divalent metal ion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Clemson University
    Inventors: Joseph W Kolis, Colin D. McMillen, Henry G. Giesber, III
  • Differential Pressure Pump System
    Publication number: 20090215176
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a fluid pumping mechanism that uses differential pressure to drive flow through one or more culture chambers. Fluid contained within a first chamber can be caused to flow through one or more culture chambers and thence to a second chamber upon establishment of a pressure differential between the two chambers. The differential pressure system can induce either steady state or pulsatile flow through a culture chamber. In one embodiment, a culture chamber can be held at a high or low pressure hydrostatic state through utilization of the disclosed systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Applicant: CLEMSON UNIVERSITY
    Inventor: David E. Orr
  • Concentration and Separation of Lipids from Renewable Resources
    Publication number: 20090181436
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods that can advantageously utilize the natural consumptive and conversion processes of an aquatic organism culture system to concentrate and separate microbial plant-generated lipids. For instance, an aquatic organism culture can be maintained and/or grown upon an algal biomass. The natural conversion processes of the animals allows for uptake and processing of the components of the algal biomass into animal lipid. The aquatic animal culture can then be easily harvested such that a high percentage of the converted algal-generated lipid can be extracted using a low cost, simple and quick process. The disclosed processes provide an efficient oil production, conversion and recovery system that can be economically scaled up for use in, for example, integrated bioenergy and biodiesel production.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Applicant: Clemson University
    Inventors: Lance Beecher, David E. Brune
  • METHOD OF CONTROLLING INSECT PESTS IN COTTON
    Publication number: 20090175885
    Abstract: An assay system is provided in which gossypol is used as a biological marker to detect evolved resistance of insects to Bt cotton. Detection of gossypol using a monoclonal antibody ELISA-based protocol enables at risk populations of insects to be evaluated for evolved resistance to Bt present in a genetically modified cotton. The specificity of the monoclonal antibody to gossypol also enables the production of nanoparticles having a conjugated monoclonal antibody which retains the ability to selectively bind gossypol. Accordingly, nanoparticles can be provided with additional target ligands, such as antibodies, so as to specifically attach to tumors or cancer cells thereby delivering the gossypol to the target cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2007
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicant: Clemson University
    Inventors: Xi Wang, Feng Chen
  • Lysophospholipids Solubilized Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes
    Publication number: 20090162277
    Abstract: Lipophilic compounds extracted from cell growth mediums, particularly lysophospholipids are used to solubilize single-walled nanotubes. The naturally occurring lysophospholipids were found to readily bond to the exterior wall of the single-walled nanotubes to enhance the biocompatibility of the single-walled nanotubes in therapeutic and diagnostic conditions. The solubilization protocol is simple, highly efficient, and results in a population of coated single-walled nanotubes which are highly stable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2006
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Applicant: Clemson University
    Inventors: Pu-Chun Ke, Yonnie Wu, Apparao M. Rao
  • Hydrothermal growth of rhombohedral potassium fluoroberyllium borate crystals for use in laser and non-linear optical applications and devices
    Patent number: 7540917
    Abstract: Single, acentric, rhombohedral, potassium fluoroberyllium borate crystals of a size sufficient for use in a variety of laser and non-optical applications are formed by a hydrothermal method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: Clemson University
    Inventors: Joseph W Kolis, Colin D. McMillen, Henry G. Giesber, III
  • Composites with oriented particles and particle networks with method
    Patent number: 7514492
    Abstract: A method and types of composites in which particles are oriented within a melt-processable material or are arranged into networks in response to chaotic advection. A masterbatch comprising a melt-processable material and particles is supplied to a blender in which chaotic advection is maintained for a specified period. A second, melt-processable material may be supplied to the blender simultaneously. Resulting composites include extrusions with oriented inorganic platelets that reduce permeation or electrically conducting plastics and other functional materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Clemson University
    Inventor: David A. Zumbrunnen
  • Process for reducing solid waste volume and landfill mass
    Patent number: 7498163
    Abstract: The present invention is related to a process for reducing solid waste volume and landfill mass. More particularly, the process of the present invention is directed to reducing organic waste with or without production and collection of a useful product. The process of the present invention involves supplying at least one oxidizing agent in the presence of an aqueous medium into organic materials. The oxidizing agent oxidizes and breaks down a portion of these materials. After addition of the oxidizing agent, at least one species of microorganism may be supplied into the channel and the microorganism consumes the oxidized organic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Clemson University
    Inventor: Annel K. Greene