Patents Issued in April 1, 2014
  • Patent number: 8685702
    Abstract: The invention provides for compositions and methods for producing isoprene by using recombinantly engineered cells that utilize a system of dual IspG enzymes in addition to isoprene synthase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignees: Danisco US Inc., The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
    Inventors: Rachel E. Muir, Walter Weyler
  • Patent number: 8685703
    Abstract: A coryneform bacterium transformant prepared by transferring an exogenous gene which encodes a protein having a sugar transporter function into a coryneform bacterium capable of utilizing D-xylose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Research Institute of Innovative Technology for the Earth
    Inventors: Hideaki Yukawa, Masayuki Inui
  • Patent number: 8685704
    Abstract: The invention relates to an isolated genetically modified microorganism in which the gene IDH1 and at least one of the genes SDH2 and DIC1 are under the control of a first promoter that is repressed to a growth culture medium by means of a cultivation additive and is active in the absence of the cultivation additive. The genes that are part of the group comprising “PYC1, ACS1, CIT1, ACO1, ICL1, MSL1, and CIT2, optionally also MDH3” are constitutively active. The invention further relates to uses of such a microorganism, especially for producing succinic acid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Organo-Balance GmbH
    Inventors: Christine Lang, Markus Veen, Mewes Bottner, Andreas Raab
  • Patent number: 8685705
    Abstract: The invention concerns the production of cholesterol of the Fungi kingdom. More particularly, the invention concerns genetically modified Fungus independently producing cholesterol from a simple carbon source. The invention also concerns the use of the inventive Fungus for producing non-marked and marked cholesterol.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Aventis Pharma S.A.
    Inventors: Denis Pompon, Bruno Dumas, Roberto Spagnoli
  • Patent number: 8685706
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for restoring disturbed arid land soil crust. According to the process, site-sourced biological soil crusts (BSC) serve as sources for liquid suspension inoculants onto degraded arid lands. The BSC are gathered from near the disturbed site, and organisms from them are cultured, replicated and multiplied many times, preferably off-site. Then, this inoculant resulting from the indigenous population is distributed live and active in a liquid suspension over the entire area of the disturbed site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Living Earth, LLC
    Inventor: Steven R. Paulsen
  • Patent number: 8685707
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes use of filamentous algae to form insulating construction materials which provide thermal and noise insulation. Algae from the order Zygnematales, the Cladophorales, or the Ulotrichales can be dried and formed for use as insulating material. Algae mass can be combined into several layers, using a binder to attach the layers to each other. A composite material of algae mass and an additive can be used and form the body of insulation panels having honeycomb-shaped chambers, which are sealed by a foil that is laminated onto the body. Various plants for cultivating algae for use in construction material are disclosed. Plants utilizing gravity harvest comprise cultivation ponds located at a slope, wherein the ponds can be opened to allow algae and water to flow downhill through a collector grill. Plants utilizing net harvest, overflow harvest or rake harvest are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Inventor: Heinz Ploechinger
  • Patent number: 8685708
    Abstract: The invention provides a device for preparing a fluid sample, including but not limited to a sample comprising genomic DNA.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: PathoGenetix, Inc.
    Inventors: John L. Harris, Adrian Mark Thomas West, Dirk Peter Ten Broeck, Ekaterina Protozanova
  • Patent number: 8685709
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a preservation apparatus is described that includes a storage compartment. The storage compartment is configured to hold an organ or tissue and a preservation fluid. A cover assembly is configured to engage the storage compartment. The cover assembly includes a support element, wherein the support element together with the storage compartment define a storage chamber. The cover assembly also includes a lid and a gas permeable membrane disposed between the lid and the support element. The gas permeable membrane and the support element together define a perfusion chamber configured to hold preservation fluid and an organ or tissue during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Board of Regents of the University of Texas System
    Inventors: Leonid Bunegin, Edward F. Gelineau
  • Patent number: 8685710
    Abstract: A photodetector detects fluorescence emitted from a sample placed on a substrate of a DNA chip. There is an irradiation optical system for guiding irradiation light by a first optical waveguide, gathering the irradiation light by a first lens and irradiating the sample. A reception optical system gathers fluorescence at an input-side end surface of a second optical waveguide by a second lens and guides the fluorescence to a measuring unit. The irradiation optical system and the reception optical system are separate light guiding paths. The reception optical system is of a confocal optical system in which a focal point on the sample is identical to a focal point at the input-side end surface of the second optical waveguide of the reception optical system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: The Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenichi Kimura, Ken Tsukii, Shinichi Taguchi, Jie Xu, Motosuke Kiyohara
  • Patent number: 8685711
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods, kits, and compositions for the highly sensitive detection of molecules. The methods, kits, and compositions are useful in determining concentrations of molecules in samples to levels of 1 femtomolar, 1 attomolar, or lower. The methods, kits, and compositions also allow the determination of concentration over a wide range, e.g., 7-log range, without need for sample dilution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Singulex, Inc.
    Inventors: Philippe J. Goix, Robert Puskas, John Todd, Richard A. Livingston, Douglas Held
  • Patent number: 8685712
    Abstract: A biochemical processing apparatus for performing biochemical processing in a container having a plurality of wells capable of holding liquid includes an opening/closing mechanism configured to open or close a lid capable of hermetically and selectively sealing the plurality of wells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hideaki Okamoto
  • Patent number: 8685713
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a blood testing bottomed tube, which comprises a tubular member having an open one end and closed another end, and a coating layer formed on at least a part to be contacted with blood on said tubular member, said coating layer being made of a polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether or a polyoxyalkylene glycol ether, the present invention also relates to a stopper for a blood testing bottom tube and a blood testing container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaaki Minamoto, Hironobu Isogawa
  • Patent number: 8685714
    Abstract: This invention describes a quantitative, inexpensive, disposable immunosensor that requires no wash steps and thus generates no liquid waste. Moreover, in preferred embodiments of the sensor no timing steps are required of the user, and the sensor can be readily adapted to antigen-antibody interactions over a wide kinetic range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Universal Biosensors Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Alastair Hodges, Ron Chatelier
  • Patent number: 8685715
    Abstract: The present invention provides an agglutination based assay system for determining the presence and/or amount of analyte in a sample comprising a test device having one or more capillary pathways comprising detection regions adapted for non-visual detection of a sample which is releasably engageable with a reader which comprises detection means for detecting the sample at the detection regions in each of said capillary pathways and electronic means for indicating the presence and/or amount of analyte.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Platform Diagnostics Limited
    Inventors: Stephen John Minter, Damian Joseph Peter Bond, Carolyn Jennifer Ruddell
  • Patent number: 8685716
    Abstract: A composting apparatus and method is described. The apparatus comprises a cylindrical drum which is horizontally rotatably supported. A hopper is disposed at a feed end of the drum for receiving organic waste material in soft or hard form. A material shredding mechanism and a grinding mechanism are rotatably secured in the hopper and driven in counter-rotation for shredding and grinding the organic waste material and feeding it into an inlet opening of the drum. A series of material mixing and conveying vane assemblies are secured spaced-apart inside the drum and define sub-composting compartments therebetween. The material mixing and conveying vane assemblies have a plurality of vanes secured in spaced-apart relationship and project interiorly towards a central longitudinal axis of the drum and are oriented at a common angle to mix, further shred and displace shredded and ground material from the inlet opening towards the rear discharge end of the drum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Great Wall of China Waste Company Inc.
    Inventor: Elias Bassile
  • Patent number: 8685717
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising an assembly and a cover. The assembly comprises a sample block configured to receive a microtiter tray having a plurality of vials, each vial comprising a cap having a surface and a perimeter. The cover comprises a platen, vertically and horizontally displaceable in relationship to the sample block, the platen having a plurality of recesses. Each recess corresponds to a respective vial and is shaped and arranged to clear the surface of its respective cap when the cover is displaced onto the sample block. The cover includes a skirt in contact with and surrounding a perimeter of the platen. The skirt is configured for mating with a perimeter of a microtiter tray when a microtiter tray is received in the sample block, and also configured such that the cover contacts a microtiter tray when a microtiter tray is received in the sample block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Applied Biosystems, LLC
    Inventors: John G. Atwood, Adrian Fawcett, Keith S. Ferrara, Paul M. Hetherington, Richard W. Noreiks, Douglas E. Olsen, John R. Widomski, Charles M. Wittmer
  • Patent number: 8685718
    Abstract: Vaccines against prion disease eliciting a humoral immune response when administered mucosally are described. The vaccines comprise a prion protein, a prion protein fragment, or a non-amyloidogenic prion protein homolog and an adjuvant suitable for inducing a humoral immune response after mucosal administration. Suitable adjuvants include cholera toxin subunit B, heat-labile enterotoxin and aluminum hydroxide. Alternatively, the vaccine comprises a vector encoding a prion protein, fragment, or homolog in an attenuated Salmonella host. The vaccines can be used to prevent or treat prion disease in humans and other mammals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: New York University
    Inventors: Thomas Wisniewski, Einar M. Sigurdsson, Jose Alejandro Chabalgoity, Fernando R. Goni, Blas Frangione
  • Patent number: 8685719
    Abstract: The invention relates to production of lysine, and provides several isolated polynucleotide molecules useful for the production of L-lysine. One such polynucleotide encodes an aspartate kinase (ask), an aspartate-semialdehyde dehydrogenase (asd) and a dihydrodipicolinate reductase (dapB). Other polypeptides encode ask, asd, dapB and a diaminopimelate dehydrogenase (ddh); ask, asd, dapB, ddh and an ORF2 poypeptide; and ask, asd dapB, ddh, ORF2 and a diaminopimelate decarboxylase (lysA). The invention further provides methods of making and using the polynucleotides, and methods to increase the production of L-lysine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Archer Daniels Midland Company
    Inventors: Lhing-Yew Li, Kelli J. Trei
  • Patent number: 8685720
    Abstract: The present invention provides compositions and methods for programming mammalian cells to perform desired functions. In particular, the present invention provides compositions and methods for programming stem cells to differentiate into a desired cell type. A quorum sensing systems that regulates the expression of cell fate regulators is introduced into mammalian host cells, such as stem cells. The quorum sensing systems generally comprises vectors that express the components of a bacterial quorum sensing pathway, including proteins which catalyze the synthesis of an autoinducer and a gene encoding a regulatory partner of the autoinducer, and vectors in which genes encoding cell fate regulators are operably linked to a promoter induced by the autoinducer/regulatory partner complex.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: The Trustees of Princeton University
    Inventors: Ron Weiss, Ihor Lemischka, Priscilla E. M. Purnick, Christoph Schaniel, Miles Miller, Patrick Guye
  • Patent number: 8685721
    Abstract: A surface expression vector for preparing HPV immunogenic compositions, in which the surface expression vector contains a gene encoding a repE mutant protein having an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1, a promoter, a poly-gamma-glutamate synthetase complex gene, and a gene which is linked with the poly-gamma-glutamate synthetase complex gene and encodes a tumor induction-associated antigen protein of human papillomavirus. An expression vector constitutively expressing a high level of the human papillomavirus (HPV) antigen protein is provided. Also, a recombinant lactic acid bacteria, transformed with the expression vector and expressing the HPV antigen protein on the surface thereof, and a composition comprising the recombinant lactic acid bacteria are provided. The recombinant lactic acid bacteria and the composition are very effective as a immunogenic composition for the treatment of cervical cancer, because they can be applied orally or directly to the vagina.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignees: Bioleaders Corporation, Kookmin University Industry-Academy Cooperation Foundation
    Inventors: Moon-Hee Sung, Haryoung Poo, Il Han Lee
  • Patent number: 8685722
    Abstract: The present invention provides a bovine adeno-associated virus (BAAV) virus and vectors and particles derived therefrom. In addition, the present invention provides methods of delivering a nucleic acid to a cell using the BAAV vectors and particles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary, Department of Health and Human Services
    Inventors: John A. Chiorini, Michael Schmidt, Ioannis Bossis, Giovanni Di Pasquale
  • Patent number: 8685723
    Abstract: Provided herein are exemplary vectors for transforming algal cells. In exemplary embodiments, the vector comprises a Violaxanthin-chlorophyll a binding protein (Vcp) promoter driving expression of an antibiotic resistance gene in an algal cell. Embodiments of the invention may be used to introduce a gene (or genes) into the alga Nannochloropsis, such that the gene(s) are expressed and functional. This unprecedented ability to transform Nannochloropsis with high efficiency makes possible new developments in phycology, aquaculture and biofuels applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Aurora Algae, Inc.
    Inventors: Bertrand Vick, Oliver Kilian
  • Patent number: 8685724
    Abstract: A method is provided for use with extracted blood, including (a) applying blood to a first gradient suitable for selecting first-pass cells having a density less than 1.077 g/ml; (b) applying the first-pass cells to a second gradient suitable for selecting second-pass cells having a density between 1.055 and 1.074 g/ml; (c) increasing the number of cells having a density between 1.055 and 1.074 g/ml, by culturing the second-pass cells for a period lasting between 3 and 30 days; and (d) identifying endothelial progenitor cells in the cultured cells. Other embodiments are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Kwalata Trading Limited
    Inventors: Valentin Fulga, Yael Porat, Danny Belkin, Daphna Shimoni-Zalk, Svetlana Porozov
  • Patent number: 8685725
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method for obtaining and selecting monoclonal antibodies by an ADDC-type test, said antibodies capable of activating type III Fcy receptors and having a particular glycan structure. The inventive anti-D antibodies can be used for preventing Rhesus isoimmunization in Rh negative persons, in particular for haemolytic disease in a new-born baby of for uses such as idiopathic thrombocytopenic pupura 9ITP.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Labortoire Francais du Fractionnement et des Biotechnologies
    Inventors: Roland Beliard, Dominique Bourel, Arnaud Glacet, Christophe De Romeuf, Nicolas Bihoreau, Emmanuel Nony
  • Patent number: 8685726
    Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for maintaining undifferentiated pluripotent stem cell cultures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Viacyte, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas C Schulz, Allan J Robins
  • Patent number: 8685727
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to regulation of macrophage activation by delivering of miRNAs, for example miR-125b or anti-miR-125b, to macrophages. For example, in some embodiments, macrophage activation can be elevated or reduced by administering miR-125b or anti-miR-125b oligonucleotides. Also disclosed are methods for promoting T cell activation and method for treating various disorders such as tumor and autoimmune diseases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Aadel Chaudhuri, Alex Steven So, David Baltimore, Ryan M. O'Connell
  • Patent number: 8685728
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition and methods of treatment for inflammation comprising of adult stem cells and inflammatory cytokines. The invention further relates to the treatment of inflammation associated with autoimmune disorders, allergies, sepsis, cancer as well as to preventing, reducing or treating transplant rejection and/or graft-versus-host disease (GvHD).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Rutgers The State University of New Jersey
    Inventors: Yufang Shi, Guangwen Ren, Liying Zhang
  • Patent number: 8685729
    Abstract: The invention provides methods and compositions for increasing tolerance of microorganisms to toxic agents, such as solvents; and for increasing production of solvents from solvent-generating microorganisms. The methods comprise engineering a microorganism of interest to express a heterologous heat-shock protein/chaperone, e.g., Group II chaperonin or a prefoldin such as ?-prefoldin, where the heterologous protein is from an extremophile, such as an archaean.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignees: The Regents of the University of California, University of Maryland, Baltimore
    Inventors: Douglas S. Clark, Timothy Whitehead, Frank T. Robb, Pongpan Laksanalamai, Anchalee Jiemjit
  • Patent number: 8685730
    Abstract: Methods and devices for culturing human pluripotent stem cells to produce cells of the pancreatic lineage are disclosed. The methods include steps of culturing the stem cells under conditions that induce the expression of mesendoderm/primitive streak and definitive endoderm markers in a chemically defined medium including an effective amount of i) fibroblast growth factor, ii) Activin A, and iii) bone morphogenetic protein. The methods further include the steps of culturing cells under conditions favoring the formation of at least one of intact embryoid bodies and pancreatic progenitor PDX1+Ins? cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation
    Inventors: Jon Odorico, Xiaofang Xu
  • Patent number: 8685731
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the coloring of cells, preferably E1-immortalized HER cells, more preferably PER.C6 cells in a reactor in suspension in a cell culture medium, wherein the cells produce a biological substance, preferably an antibody, wherein at least one cell culture medium component is fed to the cell culture and wherein the cell culture comprising the cells, the biological substance and cell culture medium is circulated over a separation system and wherein the separation system separates the biological substance from substances having a lower molecular weight than the biological substance and wherein the biological substance is retained in or fed back into the reactor. Preferably part of the substances of lower molecular weight is continuously removed from the cell culture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: DSM IP Assets B.V.
    Inventors: Gerben Meile Zijlstra, Robert Patrick Hoff, Jacob Schilder
  • Patent number: 8685732
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a biomaterial, specifically a hydrogel, formed from the extracellular matrix of the umbilical cord for its application in regenerative medicine. The invention particularly relates to a biomaterial made up of glycosaminoglycans isolated exclusively from the Wharton's jelly of the umbilical cord which can optionally contain cells, and also to the methods for the production and use thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Histocell, S.L.
    Inventors: Julio Font Perez, Maite Del Olmo Basterrechea, Maria Begona Castro Feo, Arantza Infante Martinez, Ana Isabel Alonso Varona, Teodoro Palomares Casado
  • Patent number: 8685733
    Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide a cell culture carrier for producing a cell sheet that can be readily detached from a cell culture carrier and is inhibited from contracting after being detached. The cell culture carrier 1 of the present invention comprises: a support-held culture membrane 4 comprising an organic thin film 2 having cell adhesion properties and biodegradability and a frame-like support 3 fixed on the periphery of the organic thin film for maintaining the dimensions of the organic thin film; and a base substrate 6 having a surface 5 with a static water contact angle of 45° or less, wherein the support-held culture membrane 4 is detachably placed on the surface 5 of the base substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masahiko Hase, Hideshi Hattori
  • Patent number: 8685734
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an improved method of purifying virus, particularly reovirus. Infectious virus can be extracted from a cell culture with a detergent to produce high titers of virus, and the virus can then be purified by simple steps such as filtration and column chromatography. Viruses and compositions comprising the viruses prepared according to the present invention are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Oncolytics Biotech Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew C. Coffey
  • Patent number: 8685735
    Abstract: Disclosed are isolated nucleic acids for modulating coffee maturation. Also disclosed are promoters derived from such genes. Methods for using the nucleic acids for improving quality attributes of coffee are provided. Also provided are methods for assessing the quality of plant-based agricultural products, such as coffee.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: James Gerard McCarthy, Jerome Spiral, Victoria Caillet
  • Patent number: 8685736
    Abstract: The invention provides for the use of isolated polynucleotides encoding maize poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) proteins to identify endogenous PARP encoding genes or cDNAs from a plant and to produce plant cells and plants with high vigor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Bayer Cropscience N.V.
    Inventors: Elena Babiychuk, Kushnir Sergei, Marc De Block
  • Patent number: 8685737
    Abstract: Provided herein are methods of integrating one or more exogenous nucleic acids into one or more selected target sites of a host cell genome. In certain embodiments, the methods comprise contacting the host cell genome with one or more integration polynucleotides comprising an exogenous nucleic acid to be integrated into a genomic target site, and a nuclease capable of causing a double-strand break near or within the genomic target site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Amyris, Inc.
    Inventors: Zach Serber, Andrew Horwitz
  • Patent number: 8685738
    Abstract: The present invention relates to methods of obtaining genetic competence in non-competent Bacillus cells for their transformation with exogenous DNA.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Novozymes, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy Berka, Michelle Maranta, Maria Tang, Barbara Cherry
  • Patent number: 8685739
    Abstract: There is provided a method of diagnosing a disease state in a subject. The disease state is caused or effected by pneumococcal infection. The method includes obtaining a biological test sample from the subject. The biological sample includes at least one metabolite selected from the group consisting of citrate, trigonelline, acetylcarnitine, acetone, myo-inositol, 3-hydroxybutyrate, glucose and carnitine. A respective concentration of each one of the at least one metabolite is compared with a predetermined concentration value associated with a corresponding one of the at least one metabolite. The predetermined concentration value is indicative of the disease state. For example, the biological sample includes any one of citrate, trigonelline, acetylcamitine, acetone, myoinositol, 3-hydroxybutyrate, glucose and carnitine. As a further example, the biological samples include any combination of citrate, trigonelline, acetylcamitine, acetone, myo-inositol, 3-hydroxybutyrate, glucose and carnitine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Inventors: Carolyn Slupsky, Thomas Marrie
  • Patent number: 8685740
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method of determining the susceptibility of a subject to treatment with a leukotriene modifier by determining the subject's cysteinyl leukotriene (CysLT) level and the subject's level of eosinophilic airway inflammation and identifying a subject with a high ratio of CysLT levels to eosinophilic airway inflammation as susceptible to treatment with the leukotriene modifier. Also discussed is a method of treatment of subjects who are susceptible to treatment that includes administering a leukotriene modifier to such a subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: National Jewish Health
    Inventors: Nathan Rabinovitch, Erwin Gelfand
  • Patent number: 8685741
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods for accurately classifying whether a sample from an individual is associated with an intestinal disorder. In particular, the present invention is useful for associating a sample from an individual as an IBS sample or as a non-IBS sample. The present invention is also useful for ruling out one or more diseases or disorders that present with IBS-like symptoms and ruling in IBS using statistical algorithms and/or empirical data. Thus, the present invention provides an accurate diagnostic prediction of an intestinal disorder and prognostic information useful for guiding treatment decisions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventor: Augusto Lois
  • Patent number: 8685742
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method for the more efficient cleaning of nucleic acids, and to a kit for carrying out this method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Qiagen GmbH
    Inventor: Thorsten Singer
  • Patent number: 8685743
    Abstract: A nanoplasmonic resonator (NPR) comprising a metallic nanodisk with alternating shielding layer(s), having a tagged biomolecule conjugated or tethered to the surface of the nanoplasmonic resonator for highly sensitive measurement of enzymatic activity. NPRs enhance Raman signals in a highly reproducible manner, enabling fast detection of protease and enzyme activity, such as Prostate Specific Antigen (paPSA), in real-time, at picomolar sensitivity levels. Experiments on extracellular fluid (ECF) from paPSA-positive cells demonstrate specific detection in a complex bio-fluid background in real-time single-step detection in very small sample volumes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Xiang Zhang, Jonathan A. Ellman, Fanqing Frank Chen, Kai-Hang Su, Qi-Huo Wei, Cheng Sun
  • Patent number: 8685744
    Abstract: A mobile water analyzing system for determining an analyte in a water sample includes a basic unit and a test element configured to be inserted into the basic unit. The test element includes a sample line with an inlet opening configured to receive the water sample, a measuring section forming a measuring track and configured to allow the determination of an analyte, a pump opening, and a key reagent disposed inside the sample line. The basic unit includes a test element receptacle configured to hold the inserted test element, an analyzer with an analyzer measuring track formed by the measuring section, and a pump actuator cooperatively connected with the pump opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Hach Lange GmbH
    Inventors: Ulrich Lundgreen, Aria Farjam, Rolf Uthemann, Andreas Mitreiter, Isabel Huenig, Markus Lenhard, Rainer Froemel, Hans-Joachim Kumpch
  • Patent number: 8685745
    Abstract: A multilayered optical sensing patch, for the measurement of conditions, such as pH, oxygen level, etc, within containers, is provided. The multilayered optical sensing patch of the present invention is comprised of a heat sealable polymer substrate layer, and a polymeric sensing membrane later attached thereto. The polymer sensing membrane layer is formed of a porous polymer support membrane, and an optical sensing composition (comprising a reactive indicator) covalently bonded thereto. The heat sealable polymer substrate layer is capable of being securely bonded to the inner layer of bioreactor bags, as well as the porous polymer support substrate layer. Further, the porous polymer support membrane layer provides a firm supporting structure for the polymeric sensing layer, thereby protecting the optical sensing composition disposed therein from degradation/damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Polestar Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: James A. Kane
  • Patent number: 8685746
    Abstract: A system and method for preparing and analyzing samples. The system can include a sample preparation system and a sample detection system coupled to the sample preparation system. The sample preparation system can include a deformable self-supporting receptacle comprising a reservoir adapted to contain a liquid composition comprising a source and a diluent. The sample detection system can be positioned in fluid communication with the reservoir, and can be adapted to analyze a sample of the liquid composition for an analyte of interest. The system can further include a fluid path defined at least partially by the reservoir and the sample detection system. The method can include applying pressure to the deformable self-supporting receptacle to move a sample of the liquid composition in the fluid path to the sample detection system, and analyzing the sample for the analyte of interest with the sample detection system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Kurt J. Halverson, Stephen C. P. Joseph, Raj Rajagopal, Matthew D. Reier, David J. Velasquez, Cynthia D. Zook, Sailaja Chandrapati
  • Patent number: 8685747
    Abstract: Methods, apparatuses, and systems for collecting samples using hybrid porous materials that include an organic material and an inorganic material. A method for sample collection includes contacting a hybrid porous material and a biological sample to the porous material. The hybrid porous material includes an inorganic material and an organic material. The method includes placing the porous material with the attached sample in a liquid medium, wherein the sample is separated from the porous material in the liquid medium to form a separated sample, and collecting the separated sample in the medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Arizona Board of Regents, A body corporate of the State of Arizona Acting for and on Behalf of Arizona State University
    Inventors: Frederic Zenhausern, Ralf Lenigk, James Kinder, Jianing Yang
  • Patent number: 8685748
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods for collecting, storing or transporting liquid suspension of biological specimens containing analytes of interest in a dry state. The dried biological specimens containing analytes of interest are reconstituted and released for subsequent analysis by compressing or centrifuging the matrix. Also provided are method of using kits for collecting, storing, transporting and recovering biological specimens containing analytes of interest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Vivebio, LLC
    Inventors: Robert M. Lloyd, Jr., Darrell A. Burns, Joe T. Huong
  • Patent number: 8685749
    Abstract: Methods and systems for processing samples fixed to a porous substrate generally comprising, a compressor defining one or more fluid isolation areas, a support, for the porous substrate, having an opening corresponding to one or more of the fluid isolation areas of the compressor, an actuator that causes at least a portion of the compressor to press against the porous substrate, a fluid inlet having access to the fluid isolation area at least when the compressor is pressed against the porous substrate, and a fluid outlet to receive fluid, through the opening in the support corresponding to the fluid isolation area of the compressor, at least when the compressor is pressed against the porous substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Whatman International Limited
    Inventors: Philip Alexander Shoemaker, Weston Blaine Griffin, Erin Jean Finehout, Xuefeng Wang, Kashan Ali Shaikh, Greg Darryl Goddard
  • Patent number: 8685750
    Abstract: High throughput screening is performed by directing an array tape (60) provided with a plurality of wells arranged in rows and columns into a dispensing well plate device (25) having various row and column actuators (40, 50). With the wells containing samples to be tested, activating select ones of row and column actuators (40, 50) of the dispensing well plate device (25), as well causing relative shifting between the actuators (40, 50) and the array tape (60), enables fluid to be dispensed from one or more nozzles of the dispensing well plate device (25) into predetermined ones of the plurality of wells in a wide range of patterns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Douglas Scientific, LLC.
    Inventor: Richard Jerome Schoeneck
  • Patent number: 8685751
    Abstract: A method of continuously regulating fluid pressure of a first fluid in a fluid flow path by continuously adjusting at least one fluid flow characteristic of a second fluid flow which is engaged with the first fluid flow through a flexible barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: XY, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas B. Gilligan