Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention include systems and methods for redesigning proteins. Various embodiments of the present invention present bioinformatic methods to redesign proteins to be more stable through optimization of local structural entropy. The redesigned proteins display significant increases in their thermal stabilities while retaining catalytic activity, and demonstrate a broadly applicable method.

Abstract: A partial enumeration model predictive controller and method of predictive control for a multiple input, multiple output (MIMO) system, including providing a solution table with problem solutions to a model predictive control problem for the MIMO system over a partial parameter region; scanning the solution table for an optimal solution for current parameters; using the optimal solution to control the MIMO system when the optimal solution is in the solution table; and using an alternative solution to control the MIMO system when the optimal solution is not in the solution table.

Abstract: A partial enumeration model predictive controller and method of predictive control for a multiple input, multiple output (MIMO) system, including providing a solution table with problem solutions to a model predictive control problem for the MIMO system over a partial parameter region; scanning the solution table for an optimal solution for current parameters; using the optimal solution to control the MIMO system when the optimal solution is in the solution table; and using an alternative solution to control the MIMO system when the optimal solution is not in the solution table.

Abstract: A method for determining a matrix of expression levels corresponding to a set of biological targets (e.g., genes or gene fragments) and a set of biological samples, including obtaining a matrix of signal values corresponding to the set of biological targets; computing a vector of expression levels for a sample in the set of biological samples using the matrix of signal values; storing the vector of computed expression levels in a storage matrix; repeating the computing and storing steps for each sample in the set of biological samples; and outputting the storage matrix as the matrix of expression levels. The method, based on a linear programming formulation of the problem, works for both “promiscuous” probe array data, in which there may be multiple targets indicated by a single probe, and the “polygamous” case, in which there are multiple probes for a single target. The preferred method can also process data obtained from multiple SAGE analyses using multiple markers.

Abstract: A method of forming a conformal electronic scanning array (ESA) is disclosed. The ESA is formed using rolling techniques similar to those used in forming LCD displays. If the layers forming the ESA are made of substantially transparent materials, the ESA may be applied to an outer surface of a display, such as a flexible display. The ESA may also be applied to a window or other non-planar surface such as an outer surface of a vehicle, or may be integrated into a computer display.

Abstract: A method for determining a matrix of expression levels corresponding to a set of biological targets (e.g., genes or gene fragments) and a set of biological samples, including obtaining a matrix of signal values corresponding to the set of biological targets; computing a vector of expression levels for a sample in the set of biological samples using the matrix of signal values; storing the vector of computed expression levels in a storage matrix; repeating the computing and storing steps for each sample in the set of biological samples; and outputting the storage matrix as the matrix of expression levels. The method, based on a linear programming formulation of the problem, works for both “promiscuous” probe array data, in which there may be multiple targets indicated by a single probe, and the “polygamous” case, in which there are multiple probes for a single target. The preferred method can also process data obtained from multiple SAGE analyses using multiple markers.

Abstract: A tansport system for biospecimens includes a conveyor including a conveyor each divided into two or more lanes by lane dividers means. Specimen carriers, each carrying one biospecimen container, include a base which engages the conveyor to transport the biospecimen container and at least three retainer members which are biased together to accept and retain the biospecimen container on the carrier. A variety of traffic control devices, such as diverters and singulators, as well as other control mechanisms such as orientation rails and orientation rollers are combined into control stations to manage the transport of the biospecimens through the system.

Abstract: An automated centrifuge includes a weighing station to weigh sample holding racks which arrive at the centrifuge and a rack handling robot to transfer the weighed racks to and from the centrifuge. A controller, which operates the rack handling robot, employs a novel balance method to have the rack handling robot load the sample holding racks in the centrifuge to obtain a best balance arrangement of the sample holding racks. If the balance method determines that the best balance arrangement will exceed one or more predefined balance thresholds, appropriate remedial action is taken by substituting a selected balance rack for a loaded sample holding rack.

Abstract: An improved method for making leak-proof connections to fuel tanks and other hollow articles rotationally molded from synthetic resinous materials, and particularly from relatively soft materials such as polyethylene. Prior to molding the article in a conventional rotational mold process, one or more male or female studs or similar threaded fittings are bolted to or otherwise temporarily held against the interior surface of the mold at a location which corresponds to the location for the leak-proof connections in the finished article. When a number of threaded fittings are located relatively close together or are spaced around an opening in an article, the fittings are preferably interconnected by wires or other metal support members which is embedded in the finished article. The support member strengthens the connection and also maintains a fixed spacing between the fittings. The article is then rotationally molded such that the fitting is embedded in the wall of the finished article.