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This invention is a biodegradable synthetic bone augment or graft that promotes bone healing in large defects. The cement is applied as a liquid, gel, or foam which fills irregular defects, and then quickly polymerizes into a bone-like solid. The material provides scaffolding for cell migration from nearby healthy bone. Colonization is accelerated by placing stem cells, derived from the patient prior to the procedure, in the material. These cells subsequently differentiate into bone cells.
AgCenter scientists have invented a new gene-transfer vector. The vector minimizes size and maximizes biological activity to make more copies of a desired gene. The genes can be more effectively transferred into the DNA of a crop plant to make it have desired characteristics, such as insect and herbicide resistance. The vector can also be used to transfer a desired gene to human and animal cells, fungi, bacteria and other organisms.
This invention is a new type of treatment for Aspergillosis, a type of fungal infection. This infection is particularly deadly, causing blood clots and impairment of the lungs. Usually infecting those with suppressed immune systems, Aspergillus is present in the general environment and can be inhaled from anywhere. This new treatment can overcome the organism’s normal drug resistance and offers new hope to those who suffer from infection.
A new method has been developed to detect the presence of spiroplasma in humans and animals. Determining the amount of spiroplasma present can help to diagnose transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE) like Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) and scrapie. This method can also detect the antigens of spiroplasma, further increasing the chances of finding cures to these life-threatening diseases.
The invention is a microfluidic device particularly well suited to mix chemical or particulate matter, even living cells. The device uses a unique geometry of microchannels that allows passive, nonenergy-intensive mixing of fluids. The geometry also allows a smooth flow of materials, which facilitates more biochemical reactions and avoids problems over multiple cycles. The system works equally well for both mixing thick and watery fluids. Making the device is a simple, single-layered process.
