Abstract: Current approaches for treating cancer are limited, in part, by the inability of drugs to affect the poorly vascularized regions of tumors. We have found that spores of anaerobic bacteria in combination with agents which interact with microtubules can cause the destruction of both the vascular and avascular compartments of tumors. Two classes of microtubule inhibitors were found to exert markedly different effects. Some agents that inhibited microtubule synthesis, such as vinorelbine, caused rapid, massive hemorrhagic necrosis when used in combination with spores. In contrast, agents that stabilized microtubules, such as the taxane, docetaxel, resulted in slow tumor regressions that killed most neoplastic cells. Remaining cells in the poorly perfused regions of tumors could be eradicated by sporulated bacteria.

Abstract: Methods and systems are disclosed for analyzing three dimensional orthogonal ECG measurements to assess patient risk of a subsequent cardiac event based on evaluation of cardiac vector values in view of risk factors defined by the invention.

Abstract: Disclosed is a cross-linked molecularly imprinted polymer including cross-linked chitosan having selective binding sites for phosphate ions, phosphate containing molecules, or a combination of both.

Abstract: Methods and systems to translate a pulse power demand of a pulse load to a constant power draw, and to maintain a desired peak output voltage over time. A power converter (PC) provides power from a power source to a charge store, which provides pulse power to the load. A PC controller continuously monitors an output current of the PC and an output voltage of the charge store, and controls the PC to draw constant power from the source, at a level indicated by a power command. A peak voltage controller periodically adjusts the power command, such as to compensate for time-varying effects, based on a peak voltage reference and the output voltage of the charge store measured at times of synchronization pulses. The peak voltage controller generates the synchronization pulses based on rising edges of a pulse current, or receives the synchronization pulses from the radar system controller.

Abstract: Translocator protein (TSPO) targeting compounds are described. Methods of making the compounds, and uses of the compounds for imaging are also described.

Abstract: A middle ear implant may include a first interface portion configured to interface with a first structure of a middle ear of a patient, a second interface portion configured to interface with a second structure of the middle ear of the patient, a shaft configured to connect the first interface portion and the second interface portion, and a sensor disposed at one end of the shaft, between the shaft and one of the first interface portion or the second interface portion. The sensor may be configured to provide a DC signal output indicative of static pressure on the sensor based on placement of the sensor between the first and second structures. The sensor may also be configured to provide an AC signal output indicative of a frequency response of the implant in response to the sensor being coupled to an output device.

Abstract: Three-dimensional (3D) devices that can receive, harvest or transmit electromagnetic energy with increased efficiency as compared to planar, two-dimensional devices, and methods of making thereof, are disclosed.

Abstract: Methods and kits for detection of a cell proliferative disorder, such as head and neck cancer are provided utilizing analysis of the methylation state of targeted genes or regulatory regions of genes in a saliva or serum sample are described. The presence of hypermethylation of the genes or their regulatory regions is indicative of the presence, or a stronger possibility of recurrence and or a poorer prognosis in subjects with cancer.

Abstract: A system for concentrating solar radiation onto a space debris object to vaporize includes a focusing system, an object tracking system and a positioning system. The focusing system has a total focal length fT, and includes a first focusing device and a second focusing device. The first focusing devices change from a compact state to a deployed state, and the compact surface area is less than the deployed surface area. The object tracking system determines the location of the object. The positioning system orients the focusing system such that solar radiation focuses on the space debris object.

Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for monitoring uterine and/or cervical activity indicative of labor in a patient. The system includes a medical device and a data processor in communication with the medical device. The medical device includes a structural component, a first electrode attached to the structural component, and a second electrode attached to the structural component. The structural component is structured to be in contact with a cervical surface and a vaginal surface of the patient, such that said first electrode is in electrical contact with said cervical surface and said second electrode is in electrical contact with said vaginal surface. The first electrode is adapted to receive an electrical activity of the cervical surface and the second electrode is adapted to receive an electrical activity of the uterus through the vaginal surface. The data processor is adapted to process the electrical activity of the electrodes to detect contractions on a surface of the patient indicative of labor.

Abstract: Methods to synthesize self-assembling peptides embedded with complex organic electronic subunits are provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides cellulose hydrogels having one or more of the following properties: high water content, high transparency, high permeability, high biocompatibility, high tensile strength and an optimal thickness. The present invention further provides a process for preparing a cellulose hydrogel comprising: (i) contacting cellulose with a solvent to activate the cellulose; (ii) optionally removing the solvent from the activated cellulose; (iii) substantially dissolving the activated cellulose to form a solution; (iv) allowing the solution to gel; and optionally (v) drying the gel and rehydrating the gel. The cellulose hydrogel can have many uses, including uses as contact lenses.

Abstract: The present invention takes the form of a device for training a user in defibrillation technique. The device includes a non-conductive belt that encircles a chest of a typical training simulator. The device includes conductive studs disposed in the AP or AL position, and therefore allows for training of the AP or AL defibrillation technique, respectively. The device can be used in conjunction with a high-technology simulator. In such a case the conductive studs redirect simulated cardiac rhythm signals and defibrillator electricity, allowing for the simulation of defibrillation in the AP position. The device can also be used in conjunction with a low-technology simulator or a pillow to provide AP and/or AL defibrillation functionality. In such a case, a rhythm simulator is used to simulate heart rhythm and dissipate defibrillation energy.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of prostate cancer, well as for treatment selection.

Abstract: The invention provides compositions and methods for the prevention, amelioration, and/or treatment of diabetes complications, including ocular diseases associated with increased glucose transport and/or oxidative stress.

Abstract: An method and apparatus for measuring gravitational force are described where at least one first radiation can be provided to at least one optomechanical oscillator, the at least one optomechanical oscillator being structured to deform under the gravitational force to cause a shift in resonance associated with the at least one optomechanical oscillator. In addition, at least one second radiation is received from the at least one optomechanical oscillator, wherein the at least one second radiation is associated with the shift in the resonance, and the shift in the resonance can be determined based on the first and second radiations.

Abstract: A method of simultaneously co-purifying and concentrating nucleic acid and protein targets is described. The method includes automation of the entire sample preparation process, performed by having an analyst add a sample into a device that performs all of the steps necessary to prepare a sample for analysis. The method provides for samples that are not split during the sample preparation process and where common purification methods can be used for purifying multiple analytes.

Abstract: Compression-distraction spinal fixation systems, and methods of performing compression-distraction spinal fixation, are provided that include screw-rod constructs having a ratcheting mechanism. Bone screws of the screw-rod constructs can have a pawl that engages ratchet teeth on the rod of the screw-rod construct. The bone screw can be ratcheted along the length of the rod to apply distractive or compressive forces.

Abstract: An implantable nerve stimulation device has a sensor system, a data processor in communication with the sensor system, and a nerve stimulation system in communication with the data processor and constructed to provide electrical stimulation to at least one branch of at least one vestibulocochlear nerve. The nerve stimulation system includes an electrode array that has a first plurality of electrodes structured to be surgically implanted in electrical communication with a superior branch of the vestibular nerve, a second plurality of electrodes structured to be surgically implanted in electrical communication with a horizontal branch of the vestibular nerve, a third plurality of electrodes structured to be surgically implanted in electrical communication with a posterior branch of the vestibular nerve, and a common erus reference electrode structured to be surgically implanted into a common eras of the vestibular labyrinth.

Abstract: Medical devices and kits for dynamically stabilizing or preserving motion in a spine and limiting adjacent, non-adjacent, or isolated segment degeneration of the spine while providing a controlled, determinable range of motion at the treated site, as well as methods for surgical use of the system.