Abstract: A downhole support device for use in a wellbore is provided, where the device (200) is adapted to be run into the wellbore (202) through or on a workstring (204). The device (200) comprises an inflatable element (206) adapted to be selectively connectable to the workstring (204). The inflatable element (206) selectively applies a biasing force to an external structure such, for example, a wall (214) of the wellbore (202) when in an inflated state. The inflatable element (206) has an inlet (208) for receiving and being inflated by a flowing substance. The device (200) also comprises an inflation mechanism (210) and a disconnect mechanism (222) adapted to be selectively disconnectable from the workstring (204). A method of deploying a barrier in a wellbore which makes use of the support device is also provided.

Abstract: Methods for preparing highly purified AAV vector formulations are provided. The highly pure AAV formulations described herein are superior for clinical use.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for transfecting cells with plasmids are disclosed. In certain embodiments, methods and compositions are disclosed in which transfection efficiency is significantly increased by contacting the cells being transduced with polyethyleneimine (PEI) that is free of nucleic acid during the transfection process. Therapeutically useful adeno-associated viral vectors generated according to the disclosed methods and compositions are also disclosed.

Abstract: Provided are methods for producing recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vector particles at high recovery or high titer. Also provided are methods that concentrate rAAV vectors to a high concentration, for example, up to 5E+13 (5×1013) vector genomes per milliliter (Vg/ml) with little if any rAAV aggregates.

Abstract: A deformable cleaning element is encased within soluble packaging to maintain deformation. The deformed cleaning element is launched into the bore of a drill pipe/conduit or tubular. Contact with fluids within the bore dissolves the soluble packaging allowing the cleaning element to expand to its original shape.

Abstract: A holder and display device includes three rectangular rigid panels, and a knife receiving structure formed on an inner surface of one of the rigid panels. A flexible sheet is attached to each of the rigid panels such that the flexible sheet hingably connects the rigid panels together, whereby the three panels may hinge with respect to each other via the flexible sheet between a closed configuration and a display configuration.

Abstract: This application relates to the fields of gene therapy and molecular biology. In accordance with the present invention, an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector comprising an altered capsid protein is provided. More specifically, this invention provides adeno-associated viral vectors comprising protein capsid variants which accelerate vector breakdown and clearance, thereby reducing undesirable immune responses.

Abstract: Provided herein are methods and compositions for the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, including disorders of a joint.

Abstract: A deformable cleaning element is encased within soluble packaging to maintain deformation. The deformed cleaning element is launched into the bore of a drill pipe/conduit or tubular. Contact with fluids within the bore dissolves the soluble packaging allowing the cleaning element to expand to its original shape.

Abstract: Methods for preparing highly purified AAV vector formulations are provided. The highly pure AAV formulations described herein are superior for clinical use.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a method for increasing the yield of rLV vector particles comprising a trans gene encoding a therapeutic protein or fragment thereof is disclosed. In one approach, cells are transfected with plasmids encoding the necessary components for rLV production using a calcium chloride transfection mix at pH 7.1 wherein the calcium chloride and plasmids form a complex which is added to the cells at a constant speed. The cells are then incubated for a suitable time period wherein virus particle media is collected at least twice during the incubation period and stored in a cold storage unit, thereby reducing virus inactivation.

Abstract: Cells and cell lines are disclosed that are able to produce therapeutic proteins, antibodies, vectors, and viral vectors such as lentiviral vectors and adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors. The cells and/or cell lines can have mutations or deletions in either one or both of the endogenous di-hydrofolate reductase (DHFR?/?) or glutamine synthetase (GS?/?) genes such that DHFR and/or GS expression or function is substantially reduced or eliminated.

Abstract: Methods for separating AAV empty capsids from mixtures of AAV vector particles and AAV empty capsids are described. The methods use column chromatography techniques and provide for commercially viable levels of recombinant AAV virions.

Abstract: A new cultivar of Cordyline plant named ‘Paso Doble’ that is characterized by leaves that are linear in shape, upright and dark red in color with dark pink margins.

Abstract: Methods for measuring REP-1 and REP-2 activity are provided. In certain embodiments, a method includes: (a) contacting cells that do not express endogenous functional REP-1 or REP-2 protein with an adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector comprising a CHM gene encoding a REP-1 protein or CHM like gene encoding a REP-2 protein under conditions allowing cell transduction; (b) incubating transduced cells under conditions allowing expression of the encoded REP-1 or REP-2 protein; (c) lysing the transduced cells to produce an extract comprising the encoded REP-1 or REP-2 protein and Rab small GTPase (Rabs); (d) incubating said extract with a Rab substrate for a period of time and under conditions allowing prenylation of the Rab thereby forming prenylated Rab; and (e) detecting and/or quantifying the prenylated Rab, wherein the amount of prenylated Rab reflects REP-1 or REP-2 activity thereby measuring REP-1 or REP-2 activity.

Abstract: A portable, dishwasher safe, dry herb water pipe body capable of connection to a plethora of different fluid vessels. It has a flexible polymer bidirectional flow connector that facilitates the flow of smoke from and into the water pipe body. This flow connector also frictionally engages the neck of a bottle, jar or can, thereby sealing the fluid vessel to the body of the water pipe, completing its functionality. Ice can be placed in the water pipe to further cool the incoming smoke charge for the user. After use, if a disposable fluid vessel and fluid were used, the water pipe body can be removed and no further storage or cleaning action is required. With the optional plug, the device can be used in a dry smoke mode or fluid can be added into the plug for a shortened version of a water pipe.

Abstract: The invention provides multi-chamber encapsulated cell therapy cartridge devices that are capable of delivering biologically active molecules as well as methods of using these devices.

Abstract: Methods for preparing highly purified rLV vector formulations at the scale needed to meet anticipated demand for human gene therapy are provided.

Abstract: A new cultivar of Cordyline plant named ‘Paso Doble’ that is characterized by leaves that are linear in shape, upright and dark red in color with dark pink margins.