Patents by Inventor Kenneth Pierce

Kenneth Pierce 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).

  • Patent number: 11162146
    Abstract: Provided herein are reagents for improving PCR accuracy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2021
    Assignee: Brandeis University
    Inventors: John Rice, Lawrence Wangh, Arthur H. Reis, Jr., Kenneth Pierce, Cristina Hartshorn, J. Aquiles Sanchez, Stephen Van Hooser, Skye Fishbein
  • Publication number: 20190292610
    Abstract: Provided herein are reagents for improving PCR accuracy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2019
    Publication date: September 26, 2019
    Inventors: John RICE, Lawrence Wangh, Arthur H. Reis, JR., Kenneth Pierce, Cristina Hartshorn, J. Aquiles Sanchez, Stephen Van Hooser, Skye Fishbein
  • Patent number: 10301688
    Abstract: Provided herein are reagents for improving PCR accuracy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: BRANDEIS UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: John Rice, Lawrence Wangh, Arthur H. Reis, Jr., Kenneth Pierce, Cristina Hartshorn, J. Acquiles Sanchez, Stephen Van Hooser, Skye Fishbein
  • Patent number: 9493835
    Abstract: Provided herein are methods, kits, and compositions related to nucleic acid detection assays that allow discrimination of multiple target sequences with a single probe. In particular, provided herein are methods kits, and compositions that include single-probe target sequence discrimination where different target amplicons may have identical probe hybridization sequences by employing multiple temperature end-point signal probe detection. Also provided herein are methods, kits, and compositions for distinguishing between two or more target amplicons using multiple-temperature end-point probe detection. In certain embodiments, asymmetric PCR amplification methods are employed (e.g., LATE-PCR amplification).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2016
    Assignee: Brandeis University
    Inventors: Arthur H. Reis, Jr., Lawrence J. Wangh, Kenneth Pierce
  • Patent number: 9476092
    Abstract: A non-symmetric polymerize chain reaction (PCR) amplification method employing a limiting primer in low concentration whose concentration-adjusted melting point at least equals, and preferably exceeds, that of the excess primer, the latter in turn not being more than 25° C. below the melting temperature of the amplicon. Assays employing such amplification and labeled hybridization probes, including assays that include a detection step following primer extension or a low-temperature probe, or both. Kits for performing such assays and primer or primer-and-probe sets for performing the foregoing amplifications and assays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2016
    Assignee: Brandeis University
    Inventors: Lawrence J. Wangh, Kenneth Pierce, Cristina Hartshorn, John Rice, J. Aquiles Sanchez
  • Patent number: 9376723
    Abstract: Provided herein are methods, kits, and compositions related to nucleic acid detection that allow the detection and discrimination of various Staphylococcus species and types. In particular, provided herein are assays that allow the detection of MSSA, MSSE, MRSA, MRSE, VRSA, VRSE, and MRSA community strain by detecting the presence of absence of one or more target sequences selected from a list of target genes and sequences that include, but are not limited to: mecA, femA-SA, femA-SE, lukF-PV, lukS-PV, VanA, SCCmec type I, type II, type III, type IV, type V, and type VII. In certain embodiments, asymmetric PCR amplification methods are employed. In other embodiments, probe-target generated signals are detected at least two temperatures to generate a temperature/temperature signal ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2016
    Assignee: Brandeis University
    Inventors: Arthur H. Reis, Jr., Lawrence J. Wangh, Kenneth Pierce
  • Patent number: 9102384
    Abstract: A lightweight tender comprising a hull constructed from substantially a single piece of composite material and a retractable pillar attached to the hull, wherein the retractable pillar defines a longitudinally extending channel. A retractable carbon fiber bimini cover is pivotingly attached to the retractable pillar, and defines a top deck when the pillar is retracted, and defines a bimini top extended. A first end of a brace is hingedly attached to the bimini cover and a second end of the brace travels within the longitudinally extending channel of the retractable pillar such that the angle between the bimini cover and the retractable pillar increases as the brace travels distally within the longitudinally extending channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Inventors: Kenneth Pierce, Mark Levey
  • Publication number: 20140206564
    Abstract: Provided herein are reagents for improving PCR accuracy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: Brandeis University
    Inventors: John Rice, Lawrence Wangh, Arthur H. Reis, JR., Kenneth Pierce, Cristina Hartshorn, J. Aquiles Sanchez, Stephen Van Hooser, Skye Fishbein
  • Publication number: 20130210656
    Abstract: A non-symmetric polymerise chain reaction (PCR) amplification method employing a limiting primer in low concentration whose concentration-adjusted melting point at least equals, and preferably exceeds, that of the excess primer, the latter in turn not being more than 25° C. below the melting temperature of the amplicon. Assays employing such amplification and labeled hybridization probes, including assays that include a detection step following primer extension or a low-temperature probe, or both. Kits for performing such assays and primer or primer-and-probe sets for performing the foregoing amplifications and assays.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2013
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: Brandeis University
    Inventors: Lawrence J. Wangh, Kenneth Pierce, Cristina Hartshorn, John Rice, J. Aquiles Sanchez
  • Publication number: 20130104793
    Abstract: A lightweight tender comprising a hull constructed from substantially a single piece of composite material and a retractable pillar attached to the hull, wherein the retractable pillar defines a longitudinally extending channel. A retractable carbon fiber bimini cover is pivotingly attached to the retractable pillar, and defines a top deck when the pillar is retracted, and defines a bimini top extended. A first end of a brace is hingedly attached to the bimini cover and a second end of the brace travels within the longitudinally extending channel of the retractable pillar such that the angle between the bimini cover and the retractable pillar increases as the brace travels distally within the longitudinally extending channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Inventors: Kenneth Pierce, Mark Levey
  • Publication number: 20130095479
    Abstract: Homogenous detection during or following PCR amplification, preferably LATE-PCR, utilizing fluorescent DNA dye and indirectly excitable labeled primers and probes, improves reproducibility and quantification. Low-temperature homogeneous detection during or following non-symmetric PCR amplification, preferably LATE-PCR, utilizing fluorescent DNA dye and indirectly excitable labeled mismatch-tolerant probes permits analysis of complex targets. Sequencing sample preparation methods following LATE-PCR amplifications reduce complexity and permit “single-tube” processing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: BRANDEIS UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Lawrence J. Wangh, John Rice, J. Aquilles Sanchez, Kenneth Pierce, Jesse Salk, Arthur Reis, Cristina Hartshorn
  • Patent number: 8367325
    Abstract: A non-symmetric polymerise chain reaction (PCR) amplification method employing a limiting primer in low concentration whose concentration-adjusted melting point at least equals, and preferably exceeds, that of the excess primer, the latter in turn not being more than 25° C. below the melting temperature of the amplicon. Assays employing such amplification and labeled hybridization probes, including assays that include a detection step following primer extension or a low-temperature probe, or both. Kits for performing such assays and primer or primer-and-probe sets for performing the foregoing amplifications and assays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Brandeis University
    Inventors: Lawrence J. Wangh, Kenneth Pierce, Cristina Hartshorn, John Rice, J. Aquiles Sanchez
  • Publication number: 20120208191
    Abstract: Provided herein are methods, kits, and compositions related to nucleic acid detection that allow the detection and discrimination of various Staphylococcus species and types. In particular, provided herein are assays that allow the detection of MSSA, MSSE, MRSA, MRSE, VRSA, VRSE, and MRSA community strain by detecting the presence of absence of one or more target sequences selected from a list of target genes and sequences that include, but are not limited to: mecA, femA-SA, femA-SE, lukF-PV, lukS-PV, VanA, SCCmec type I, type II, type III, type IV, type V, and type VII. In certain embodiments, asymmetric PCR amplification methods are employed. In other embodiments, probe-target generated signals are detected at least two temperatures to generate a temperature/temperature signal ratio.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Applicant: Brandeis University
    Inventors: Arthur H. Reis, JR., Lawrence J. Wangh, Kenneth Pierce
  • Publication number: 20120202203
    Abstract: Provided herein are methods, kits, and compositions related to nucleic acid detection assays that allow discrimination of multiple target sequences with a single probe. In particular, provided herein are methods kits, and compositions that include single-probe target sequence discrimination where different target amplicons may have identical probe hybridization sequences by employing multiple temperature end-point signal probe detection. Also provided herein are methods, kits, and compositions for distinguishing between two or more target amplicons using multiple-temperature end-point probe detection. In certain embodiments, asymmetric PCR amplification methods are employed (e.g., LATE-PCR amplification).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Applicant: BRANDEIS UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Arthur H. Reis, JR., Lawrence J. Wangh, Kenneth Pierce
  • Publication number: 20120040352
    Abstract: Homogenous detection during or following PCR amplification, preferably LATE-PCR, utilizing fluorescent DNA dye and indirectly excitable labeled primers and probes, improves reproducibility and quantification. Low-temperature homogeneous detection during or following non-symmetric PCR amplification, preferably LATE-PCR, utilizing fluorescent DNA dye and indirectly excitable labeled mismatch-tolerant probes permits analysis of complex targets. Sequencing sample preparation methods following LATE-PCR amplifications reduce complexity and permit “single-tube” processing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2008
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Inventors: Lawrence J. Wangh, John Rice, J. Aquiles Sanchez, Kenneth Pierce, Jesse Salk, Arthur Reis, Cristina Hartshorn
  • Patent number: 7632642
    Abstract: Homogenous detection during or following PCR amplification, preferably LATE-PCR, utilizing fluorescent DNA dye and indirectly excitable labeled primers and probes, improves reproducibility and quantification. Low-temperature homogeneous detection during or following non-symmetric PCR amplification, preferably LATE-PCR, utilizing fluorescent DNA dye and indirectly excitable labeled mismatch-tolerant probes permits analysis of complex targets. Sequencing sample preparation methods following LATE-PCR amplifications reduce complexity and permit “single-tube” processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Brandeis University
    Inventors: Lawrence J. Wangh, John Rice, J. Aquiles Sanchez, Kenneth Pierce, Jesse Salk, Arthur Reis, Cristina Hartshorn
  • Publication number: 20090226973
    Abstract: An additive for preventing mispriming in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplifications and assays comprising a hairpin oligonucleotide having a stem duplex greater than six nucleotides in length and a stabilized stem terminus. The additive improves PCR amplifications, including LATE-PCR amplifications when added to initial amplification reaction mixtures. It can be included in oligonucleotide sets and in kits for PCR amplification and assays.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventors: Lawrence J. Wangh, John Rice, J. Aquiles Sanchez, Kenneth Pierce, Jesse Salk, Arthur Reis, Cristina Hartshorn
  • Patent number: 7517977
    Abstract: An additive for preventing mispriming in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplifications and assays comprising a hairpin oligonucleotide having a stem duplex greater than six nucleotides in length and a stabilized stem terminus. The additive improves PCR amplifications, including LATE-PCR amplifications when added to initial amplification reaction mixtures. It can be included in oligonucleotide sets and in kits for PCR amplification and assays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Brandeis University
    Inventors: Lawrence J. Wangh, John Rice, J. Aquiles Sanchez, Kenneth Pierce, Jesse Salk, Arthur Reis, Cristina Hartshorn
  • Publication number: 20080280292
    Abstract: A non-symmetric polymerise chain reaction (PCR) amplification method employing a limiting primer in low concentration whose concentration-adjusted melting point at least equals, and preferably exceeds, that of the excess primer, the latter in turn not being more than 25° C. below the melting temperature of the amplicon. Assays employing such amplification and labeled hybridization probes, including assays that include a detection step following primer extension or a low-temperature probe, or both. Kits for performing such assays and primer or primer-and-probe sets for performing the foregoing amplifications and assays.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2007
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventors: Lawrence J. Wangh, Kenneth Pierce, Cristina Hartshorn, John Rice, J. Aquiles Sanchez
  • Publication number: 20070168989
    Abstract: Program execution can be monitored and recorded for later playback. Certain state changes that can be predicted via a virtual processor during playback need not be recorded, so a compressed recording can be stored. To facilitate random access with respect to time during playback, key frames can be stored within the compressed recording. An index mechanism can associate key frames with particular memory addresses. Additionally, a snapshot of values for memory addresses can be used to further facilitate determining the value of a memory address without having to simulate execution. Multiprocessor executions can be supported, and playback can be done on a machine type different from that on which recording took place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2005
    Publication date: July 19, 2007
    Applicant: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Andrew Edwards, Darek Mihocka, Ho-Yuen Chau, Ronald Murray, Sanjay Bhansali, Stuart de Jong, Wen-Ke Chen, Kenneth Pierce