Abstract: The present invention relates to a chemically sensitive sensor for detecting volatile organic compounds, the sensor comprising a substrate, an electrode array, a micro-barrier, and a sensing layer comprising a multiplicity of core-shell particles in close-packed orientation, the particles comprising a metal nanoparticle (MNP) core and an organic ligand shell, wherein the MNP core has a mean particle size below about 15 nm. The invention further provides a method for fabrication of the chemically sensitive sensor.

Abstract: In an embodiment of the invention, reactant sensitive substances are stored in a container where a diaphragm inside the container is expanded to reduce air in contact with the substances. In an embodiment, an inner diaphragm is expanded by pushing on an outer diaphragm and forcing the inner diaphragm towards the substance where the gas containing the reactants is forced out a one-way valve. In an embodiment of the invention, a second one-way valve allows air into a container void space between the inner and outer diaphragms when a force is applied to the outer diaphragm that pumps out the gas and brings the inner diaphragm into contact with the substance. To open the container, the vacuum can be released by pressing a first one-way conditional valve which releases air into the container. A second one-way conditional valve can release the air trapped in the container void space.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods compositions and methods for treating a hyperproliferative disease comprising disrupting Cripto/GRP78 complex formation in a hyperproliferative cell. In certain embodiments, an antibody and/or siRNA may be used to inhibit Cripto/GRP78 binding, optionally coupled with other cancer therapies. Also provided are methods for identifying therapeutic compounds which can selectively inhibit Cripto/GRP78 binding.