Hybrid Computer Tomography Scanning System

The invention relates to a combination hybrid computer tomography (CT) system that is particularly suited for elucidating stages in pulmonary diseases, notably cystic fibrosis and lung cancer. Improved visualization of lung parenchyma and the margins of lung cysts (non-invasive “virtual biopsy”) may provide sufficient detail to distinguish the types of cystic lesions such that the typical lung tissue pathologic biopsy would not be needed to make a diagnosis.

Near Real-time, Low-cost, Hand-held Sensors for Measuring Elemental Concentration of Airborne Particles for Indoor or Outdoor Air Quality Monitoring

Airborne particles can have great impact on air quality, weather, and human health. In particular, long-term inhalation of toxic particulate matter in workplaces could pose a significant health risk. NIOSH scientists have developed a new, low-cost approach based on application of atmospheric radio frequency glow discharge (rf-GD) optical emission spectroscopy for near real-time measurement of elemental concentration in aerosols. The method involves collection of aerosol particles on an electrode tip in a coaxial microelectrode system, followed by excitation of the particles using rf-GD.

Novel UNEX Buffer and Disk for Safe Storage and Transport at Ambient Temperatures of Clinical Specimens for Molecular Testing of Pathogens

The development of genomic approaches and nucleic acid based techniques has led to a large number of biological samples, including DNA, RNA, cells, tissues, and environmental samples that require storage. Typically, microbial DNA and RNA samples are stored long-term in laboratory freezers at temperatures ranging from -20°C to -196°C, the lower ranges utilizing liquid nitrogen. This often requires the use of several freezer boxes that can take up space and become difficult to sort through.

Real-time RT-PCR Assay for Rapid, Highly Sensitive and Specific Detection of Human Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68)

Human Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is a non-polio enterovirus that can cause mild to severe respiratory illness, especially in infants and children with asthma. Since its identification, every year EV-D68 has been detected sporadically throughout the world. The US experienced a nationwide outbreak of EV-D68 associated with a particularly severe respiratory illness from mid-August to early November 2014, with 1,153 confirmed cases in 49 states and the District of Columbia. Although various established detection methods are available for EV-D68, enteroviruses evolve rapidly.

Encapsulated Streptococcus Compositions and Methods for Pneumococcal Vaccine, Probiotic, and Diagnostic Assay Development

Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) bacteria, or pneumococcus, can cause many types of illnesses. These range from ear and sinus infections to life-threatening conditions such as pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and meningitis. Pneumococci are surrounded by a polysaccharide capsule, which is thought to help it evade the immune system. Presently, over 90 known serotypes of S. pneumoniae have been identified, of which only a minority produce the majority of pneumococcal infections; a serotype is defined by a unique pneumococcal capsule structure.

Monoclonal Antibody to Detect the Antiretroviral Drug Emtricitabine – for HIV Drug Adherence Monitoring

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and World Health Organization (WHO) approved the antiretroviral drug emtricitabine (FTC)/ tenofovir disoproxil fumurate (TDF) combination for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in high risk populations. Efficacy of PrEP depends strongly on adherence to taking the FTC/TDF pill daily. In the US, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1.2 million Americans will benefit from PrEP. FTC is also a key component of antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens of HIV-infected persons and significantly associated with adherence.

Method To Generate Chondrocytes from Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (hIPSCs) and their use in Repairing Human Injury and Degenerative Diseases

This technology includes a method for differentiating human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) into stable chondrocytes, capable of producing cartilage, and their use in cartilage repair in human injury and degenerative diseases. In suspension culture, hiPSC aggregates demonstrate gene and protein expression patterns similar to articular cartilage.

Novel Fusion Proteins for HIV Vaccine

Development of successful HIV vaccine immunogens continues to be a major challenge.  Although gp120 was identified as having significant potential as a vaccine immunogen, attempts to elicit broadly neutralizing antibodies using recombinant gp120 failed.  The highly flexible gp120 may present numerous conformations to the humoral immune system that are not found on the viral spike.

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