Human iPSC-Derived Mesodermal Precursor Cells and Differentiated Cells

Cells, cell culture methods, and cell culture media compositions useful for producing and maintaining iPSC-derived cell lines that are of higher purity and maintain cell type integrity better than current iPSC-derived cell lines are disclosed. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) can be generated by reprogramming somatic cells by the expression of four transcription factors. The hiPSCs exhibit similar properties to human embryonic stem cells, including the ability to self-renew and differentiate into all three embryonic germ layers: ectoderm, endoderm, or mesoderm.

Real Time Medical Image Processing Using Cloud Computing

The invention pertains to a system for reconstructing images acquired from MR and CT scanners in a robust Gadgetron based cloud computing system. A hardware interface connects clinical imaging instruments (e.g., MR or CT scanners) with a cloud computing environment that includes image data reconstruction and processing software not limited by the computational constraints typical of static hardware with finite processor power.

Novel Dopamine D2 Receptor Antagonists and Methods of Their Use

Investigators at the NIH have identified a series of novel, small molecule antagonists of the dopamine D2 receptor. Among the dopamine receptor (DAR) subtypes, D2 DAR is arguably one of the most validated drug targets in neurology and psychiatry. For instance, all receptor-based anti-Parkinsonian drugs work via stimulating the D2 DAR, whereas all FDA approved antipsychotic agents are antagonists of this receptor. Unfortunately, most agents that act as antagonists of D2 DAR are problematic, either they are less efficacious than desired or cause multiple adverse effects.

AMA1-RON2 Complex-Based Vaccine Against Malaria

This technology relates to a malaria vaccine composed of a protein complex of Apical Membrane Antigen (AMA1) and rhoptry neck protein 2 (RON2) with an adjuvant. AMA1 is a crucial component of the Plasmodium invasion machinery and is a leading candidate for antimalarial vaccine development. AMA1-based vaccines have shown ability to block red cell invasion in in vitro assays, but protection has so far not translated to in vivo human infections.

Treatment of Chronic Kidney Disease with Synthetic Amphipathic Peptides

The invention is directed to treatment of chronic kidney disease by administering a synthetic, amphipathic helical peptide known as 5A-37pA, and novel derivatives thereof. Scientists at NIDDK have demonstrated that invention peptides antagonize activity of a particular scavenger receptor known as CD36. Using an in vivo model, NIDDK scientists have shown that invention peptides slowed progression of chronic kidney disease and can potentially be utilized as a therapeutic treatment.

A Novel Demodulation System in X-ray Imaging

In various x-ray imaging methods, including scattering correction and phase contrast imaging, intensity modulation in space is introduced into the projection images by the use of masks, gratings, or apertures. The present invention relates to a process to demodulate the modulation. The current demodulation processes are either to remove the modulation pattern through digital processing or to move the modulation pattern on the detector in a series of images that requires mechanical movements of a component and tends to lose some information of the imaged object.

A Novel X-ray Grating to Enhance Phase Contrast Imaging

The present invention relates to improving x-ray phase contrast imaging. The invention discloses a novel grating interferometer for phase contrast imaging with hard x-rays that overcomes limitations in the level of sensitivity by utilizing the advantages of far-field interferometers. The novel design and fabrication process can easily acquire absolute and differential phase images of lightly absorbing samples.

A Current Amplifier for Local Coil Pre-amplification of NMR/MRI Signals

The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems are used for a variety of imaging application. The present invention discloses an improving MRI device and method by amplifying signals received by resonant NMR coils of MRI systems. It utilizes positive feedback from low-noise Field-Effect Transistor to amplify the signal current that can be coupled out to receiving loops positioned externally without loss in sensitivity. Therefore, the NMR coil can be flexibly positioned near internal tissues and used to develop high-resolution images in highly invasive situations.

Resolution Enhancement for Light Sheet Microscopy Systems

The invention pertains to a technique for enhancing the resolution of images in light sheet microscopy by adding additional enhanced depth-of-focus optical arrangements and high numerical aperture objective lenses. The technique employs an arrangement of three objective lenses and a processor for combining captured images. The image composition utilizes the greater resolving power of the third high numerical aperture objective lens by imaging the light sheet and enhanced depth-of-focus arrangement resulting in improved overall resolution of the light sheet system.