Search PubMed⌕ Search

SEARCH · Search PubMed

Results for “Technology Transfer”

Search indexed PubMed citations on genomics, clinical trials, systematic reviews and public health. Explore titles, authors and supplied subject terms, then open the PubMed record.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 1,027 records · Page 57Linked to original sources

Discovery, transfer, and diffusion of technologies for the detection of genetic disorders. Policy implications.

Much of the current interest in genetics stems from the Human Genome Project. Although the project will accelerate the identification of disease-related genes, as currently formulated it may retard discovery of gene function and effective treatments, thereby prolonging the stage in which people at risk of genetic diseases can be identified but not treated. This stage is fraught with ethical problems. The project's goal of sequencing the entire human genome could also detract from basic biological research, as could the growing interest of universities in biotechnology transfer to the commercial sector.

Biotechnology↗

Automotive HUDs: the overlooked safety issues.

The transfer of tactical aviation technology into automobiles is creating information display requirements that are likely to be met by use of the head-up display (HUD). These developments are based largely on conclusions that the HUD-related safety issues raised in the aviation HUD literature can be dismissed and that the benefits of using HUDs are certain. Such conclusions either neglect relevant research or are supported by a very small amount of evidence, much of which is either irrelevant or generated within a flawed methodological paradigm. This critical review covers the issues of (a) HUD focal distance and its effect on the perception of outside objects and (b) the effects of HUD imagery on visual attention. The issues of focal distance, cognitive capture, and the inherent connection between the two may have a greater impact on safety in the automotive context than they do in aviation.

Accidents, Traffic↗

Different approaches and cultural considerations in third world prosthetics.

The major objective of prosthetics the world over is the same, i.e. to restore the amputee to as functional a capacity as possible in his cultural environment, whilst attaining as good a cosmetic result as can be achieved. At first glance it would seem that this would mean there would be very little difference in approach to the subject in western and in third world countries. Availability of materials, resources and skilled personnel, together with a variety of cultural differences, however, make third world prosthetics a subject in itself. This paper reviews the literature available on the subject, examines some different approaches to prosthetics in the third world, gives an overview of some materials and designs used and considers adaptations for cultural differences. It concludes that, whilst direct transfer of western prosthetics technology is useful in the short term, for long term benefit to the poorer amputees in the third world, culture-specific designs and materials are more appropriate.

Attitude to Health↗

Linkage of markers controlling consecutive biochemical steps in CHO cells as demonstrated by chromosome transfer.

Using the technology of metaphase chromosome transfer, evidence has been obtained in CHO cells that genes controlling enzymes in a common pathway in folate metabolism are closely linked. MtxRI and MtxRIII are co-dominant mutations which affect the structure and level of dihydrofolate reductase. Gat- is a glycine-, adenosine- and thymidine-requiring auxotrophic mutant with a lesion in folylpolyglutamate synthetase, an enzyme responsible for addition of glutamates to folate residues. GlyB- is an auxotrophic glycine-requiring mutant whose phenotype may be reversed by folinic acid. Using purified metaphase chromosomes, the MtxR genes were co-transferred into recipient cells with the auxotrophic markers, as demonstrated by the isolation of transferents when two of the phenotypes, either Mtx and Gat, or Mtx and GlyB, were selected at the same time. When recipient cells were selected for Gat+ or GlyB+ alone, the transferents carried the MtxR markers. The GlyA mutation, another glycine-requiring auxotrophic change, is not co-transferred with methotrexate resistance. Because of previous evidence that only a small fragment is involved in chromosomal transfer experiments, these results seem to provide the first indication that some genes which control enzymes on a common metabolic pathway in eucaryotes are closely linked or are at least syntenic.

Cell Line↗

Lessons learned from gene transfer approaches.

Recent technological advances allow the transfer of genes to the synovial lining of joints. As well as opening novel opportunities for therapy, these techniques provide valuable new tools for the study of synovitis and other aspects of the biology of joints in health and disease. This article reviews briefly the results of experiments in which selected genes have been transferred to the knee joints of healthy rabbits and rabbits with antigen-induced arthritis.

Animals↗

Assuring process safety in the transfer of hydrogen cyanide manufacturing technology.

This paper outlines the critical issues to be addressed in the transfer of hydrogen cyanide (HCN) manufacturing technology to a licensee. Process safety management (PSM) is of critical importance because of the toxicity, flammability and reactivity of HCN. The critical issues are based on experience that DuPont has gained (1) while safely manufacturing hydrogen cyanide for over 50 years, and (2) while DuPont has safely licensed HCN technology to other firms at locations around the world. DuPont's HCN experience has been combined with Aker Kvaerner's project engineering experience to insure the safe transfer of HCN technology to a licensee.

Explosions↗

Technique for neurosurgically relevant CT image transfers using inexpensive video digital technology.

OBJECTIVE: To examine and document neurosurgically relevant CT image transfers using inexpensive video digital technology. METHODS: Thirty abnormal CT scans were evaluated on a personal computer monitor following their digital image creation and transfer by electronic mail (e-mail). These were compared with the radiologist's interpretation of a hard copy of the CT scan originals. Any change in diagnosis based on the CT scan or e-mail image was assessed after completion of the comparison. RESULTS: A total of 30 CT scans were successfully transferred and reviewed. On only one image was there disagreement between the neurosurgeon's and the radiologist's interpretations of the image. This resulted in a change in the radiologist's diagnosis after digital image transfer occurred and the neurosurgeon diagnosed an isodense subdural hematoma, which was later confirmed at the time of surgical decompression. CONCLUSIONS: A hand-held, inexpensive digital camera may serve neurosurgeons as a helpful alternative to expensive, labor-intensive teleradiology systems. It should be considered as an adjunctive option for small community-based hospitals unable to financially support more sophisticated teleradiology techniques, which have been shown to provide a significant benefit in the management and outcome of head trauma patients.

Humans↗

Toward a dialogue in international consultancy in occupational therapy with Japan as a reference.

The customs and cultural attitudes that determine occupational therapy practice cannot be transferred from one culture to another. However, the technology of occupational therapy can be transferred. The international consultant is responsible for such a technological transfer. The consultee is responsible for assimilating technology and creating a culturally appropriate treatment practice. Technological transfer in industry demonstrates that divergent cultural applications of the same technology are possible, that the autonomy of the consultee is of primary importance, and that government support of the consultation effort is crucial. Current practice and expectation in international occupational therapy consultation is examined. The author concludes that fluency in the language of the host country is a questionable expectation, and that short-term workshops by teams of therapists should supplement the traditional individual long-term consultancy. Japan is used as a reference for discussion.

Culture↗

How does magnetic resonance compare with computed tomography?

Magnetic resonance (MR) is a new technology that has benefited by transfer of technology already developed for computed tomography (CT), but many further changes should be expected in its technologic development. Already MR imaging in some instances equals or surpasses CT, and other less obvious advantages may become apparent. MR costs may not compare unfavorably with those of CT, and increased cost might still be justified if more information can be obtained or if the need for other tests or length of hospitalization could be reduced. The fact that MR at this stage might equal CT is a real accomplishment; this performance should be acknowledged and rapid development and scientific investigation of MR technology should be actively supported.

Costs and Cost Analysis↗

Telemedicine in Greenland: the case for and against implementation.

Greenland has a population of approximately 55,000 spread over an enormous stretch of coast. Conditions for patient transport are often hostile due to weather and the availability of materials. The health clinics on the coast are wholly dependent on the ability to transport in cases of serious illness or injury, as no manpower or facilities for intensive treatment or care exist outside of populated centers. A large proportion of the population lives far away from the centers, and due to their closeness to nature, these people have a high incidence of injuries. For these reasons, installation of the highest possible level of technological knowledge transfer seems highly appropriate. However, technology proficiency on the part of health personnel in the outlying areas is low; indeed, the level of reading skills is not satisfactory in all cases. There is furthermore a significant language barrier. The case for telemedicine in this setting is clear in technical terms, but murky at best in the manpower sense. The final argument will be financial means, which must be found by savings in other settings, e.g., evacuations and treatment in distant settings. A current effort to increase the information base to support decision making in this sphere is presented.

Greenland↗

Application of molecular biomarkers in epidemiology.

The principal conclusions and opportunities that can be drawn from this conference are as follows. The meeting demonstrated the large communication gap that still exists between most epidemiologists and laboratory scientists. This problem could be overcome if epidemiologists worked closely with laboratory scientists at the outset of any project so that a better understanding could be built between them. Epidemiologists need simple, well-characterized, reproducible assays that can be applied to hundreds or thousands of people. Most laboratory scientists have little interest in running large numbers of assays, but wish to continually refine their methods so that they stay on the "cutting edge" of basic research. This problem could be overcome if the new laboratory technology could be transferred to contract laboratories or small companies. Problems of technology transfer therefore need to be addressed. Current and new biomarkers need to be better validated in the field and by studying animal models. More information on the background expression of biomarkers in the general population is needed (i.e. what is the normal range?). Ethical issues, such as the possibility that biomarkers of susceptibility could be used to exclude people from the workplace, need to be addressed.

Animals↗

Implementation of three dimensional conformal radiation therapy: prospects, opportunities, and challenges.

PURPOSE: To briefly review scientific rationale of 3D conformal radiation therapy (3DCRT) and discuss the prospects, opportunities, and challenges in the implementation of 3DCRT. Some of these ideas were discussed during a workshop on "Implementation of Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiation Therapy" in April 1994 at Bethesda, MD, and others have been discussed elsewhere in the literature. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Local-regional control of cancer is an important component in the overall treatment strategy in any patient with cancer. It has been shown that failure to achieve local-regional control can lead to (a) an increase in chances of distant metastases, and (b) a decrease in the survival. In many disease sites, the doses delivered currently are inadequate to achieve satisfactory local tumor control rates; this is because in many sites, only limited doses of radiotherapy can be delivered due to the proximity of cancer to radiosensitive normal tissues. By conforming the radiotherapy beams to the tumor, doses to the tumors can be enhanced and doses to the normal tissues can be reduced. With the advances in 3DCRT, such conformation is possible now and is the rationale for using 3DCRT. However, a number of questions do remain that are not limited to the following: (a) What are the implications in terms of target volume definitions when implementing 3DCRT? (b) Are there some sites where research efforts can be focused to document the efficacy and cost effectiveness of 3DCRT? (c) How do we implement day-to-day 3DCRT treatment efficiently? (d) How do we transfer the technology from the university centers to the community without compromising quality? (e) What are all the quality assurance/quality improvement questions that need to be addressed and how do we ascertain quality assurance of 3DCRT? (f) Have we looked at cost-benefit ratios and quality of life (QOL) issues closely? RESULTS: There is a need for defining multiple target volumes: gross tumor volume, clinical target volume(s), and planning target volume(s). Such definitions should make implementation of 3DCRT more complex, yet will make high-dose delivery a possibility. There are many sites in which single and multiinstitutional studies are ongoing that include prostate, lung, head and neck, and brain. In other areas, cooperative group trials are required because of the inability of single institutions to accrue enough patients to answer clinically relevant questions with statistical validity. Although implementation of 3DCRT will require multiple steps, these multiple steps can be brought into clinical practice gradually and one does not have to wait until all steps required for implementation of 3DCRT are available. In this respect, "3DCRT" should be used in a very broad sense, from beam's eye view blocking, use of multibeam dose distribution, use of dose-volume histograms in choosing alternative plans, noncoplanar beam arrangements, intensity modulation, inverse planning, to totally automated implementation of 3DCRT. To transfer the 3DCRT capabilities to the community from the University Centers, there is a necessity to develop quality assurance programs. RTOG and the Three-Dimensional Oncology Group are spearheading these efforts. Three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy has potential not only to improve local control and decrease toxicity, but also to improve the cost benefit ratio in the use of radiotherapy as well as in improving quality of life in patients with cancer. CONCLUSIONS: Achieving many potential benefits of 3DCRT (improvement in local control, decreasing toxicity, organs-function preservation, improvement in cost effectiveness) will require further physics-related and clinical research in carefully conceived and successfully completed future clinical trials.

Humans↗

Preparing effective behavioral interventions to be used by prevention providers: the role of researchers during HIV Prevention Research Trials.

The likelihood of prevention providers and consumers adopting and implementing evidence-based HIV prevention interventions depends on the strategies employed in translating, packaging, and disseminating the findings from research to practice. Lessons from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Replicating Effective Programs project have shown that to smoothly transfer HIV prevention technology from research to practice, researchers need to prepare for possible transfer during research trials. Preparation should include documenting details of the intervention beyond what is published in journals, including important details regarding what the intervention was about, how preparations for it were made, and how it was delivered. Researchers should also ensure that all relevant stakeholders are integrally involved in all aspects of the research and technology transfer process. Such collaborations encourage exchange of ideas and can make certain that interventions are designed to be relevant and acceptable to community agencies and feasible for them to implement.

Evidence-Based Medicine↗

New technologies: bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) for the detection of real time interactions involving G-protein coupled receptors.

The natural phenomenon of bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) has become an extremely useful tool for studying protein-protein interactions in the laboratory, including those involving G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs). The technology involves fusion of donor and acceptor molecules to proteins of interest. Following assessment to ensure correct functionality, co-expression of fusion constructs in live cells enables their interaction to be studied in real time in a quantitative manner. Energy is transferred from the donor to the acceptor when in close proximity, resulting in fluorescence emission at a characteristic wavelength. The energy emitted by the acceptor relative to that emitted by the donor is termed the BRET signal. It is dependent upon the spectral properties, ratio, distance and relative orientation of the donor and acceptor molecules, as well as the strength and stability of the interaction between the proteins of interest. The ability to study interactions in live mammalian cells circumvents many of the problems associated with techniques such as co-immunoprecipitation and yeast two-hybrid screening. Furthermore, the high sensitivity of BRET enables the study of proteins at physiological concentrations, a significant advantage over techniques that require high levels of protein expression. BRET technology has already made a substantial contribution to our understanding of GPCRs and protein-protein interactions, in particular by providing strong evidence that GPCRs homo- and hetero-oligomerize. New BRET detection systems and the potential for novel high throughput screening applications means that BRET promises to play an important role in future research and drug discovery.

Animals↗

RHINE-AM. An inter-regional health information network for Europe.

RHINE is an inter-regional network in Europe having as an aim, the promotion of know-how transfer in the area of Information Technology methods and tools in the regions involved. The RHINE network's significance will be demonstrated in the health sector. Within the main scope of the project, the aims and objectives of RHINE and the participating partners encompass the extension of the nucleus network and the furtherance of Information Technology research. Application areas include distributed data base and knowledge base technologies for open regional information systems supported by other technologies for business processes.

Computer Communication Networks↗

From science to application: the development of an intervention package.

Many community-based organizations and health departments want to implement HIV prevention interventions with scientifically demonstrated effectiveness. The Replicating Effective Programs (REP) project supported researchers in developing intervention packages designed to help prevention partners replicate effective programs in their settings. Intervention packages convey the intervention's foundation, components, and methods and are one part of a larger system needed to transfer research-based HIV prevention technology to service providers. Implementation packages were developed using a multistage process. The original researchers drafted the materials, advisory groups reviewed the packages, and adopting agencies used the materials in trial runs. The advisory groups and adopting agencies recommended extensive use of examples, thorough explanations about the rationale for each intervention component, explicit representation of people of color in the materials, clear statements about the intended audience(s), and an easy-to-use and visually appealing format. Packages were revised based on these recommendations and the outcomes of the trial runs.

Community Health Services↗

Legal issues in sharing the benefits of biodiversity prospecting.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is the US Government's principal agency for research on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer. A critical component of the Institute's mission is the identification and development of new and promising treatments for cancer and AIDS. For many years these efforts have included a program to investigate natural products for potential new therapeutic agents. In 1986, with the advent of new screening techniques, the National Cancer Institute stepped up its exploration of natural products and began world-wide collections of plants in tropical and subtropical regions. In recognition of the principles of the Biodiversity Treaty, NCI appreciates that continued access to the natural products of these countries depends on the Institute's ability to recognize the contributions of these source countries and their indigenous peoples, and to provide them adequate incentives to conserve their natural resources for the purposes of drug discovery. Accomplishing this goal presented several legal issues for the National Cancer Institute. As an agency of the US government, the NCI has an adjunct statutory mission to facilitate the transfer of technology developed through the Institute's programs into the private sector for further development and commercialization, and NCI operates under a national policy to use the patent system to transfer Federally supported research to the private domestic sector. Reliance on patent law may limit the Institute's ability to recognize the rights of source countries and their indigenous people and provide compensation for their contributions. However, other legal instruments, such as contracts, can serve as interim measures to provide compensation to source countries and indigenous populations. The National Cancer Institute's Letter of Collection agreement (LOC, formerly the "Letter of Intent'), is an example of an alternative means that "fills-in the gaps' created by patent law and through which source countries may share in the benefits of natural product development.

Conservation of Natural Resources↗