Abstract: We disclose quantitative geometrical analysis enabling the measurement of several features of images of tissues including perimeter, area, and other metrics. Automation of feature extraction creates a high throughput capability that enables analysis of serial sections for more accurate measurement of tissue dimensions. Measurement results are input into a relational database where they can be statistically analyzed and compared across studies. As part of the integrated process, results are also imprinted on the images themselves to facilitate auditing of the results. The analysis is fast, repeatable and accurate while allowing the pathologist to control the measurement process.

Abstract: A device and process for pulverizing solid materials is provided, which generates vertical and horizontal motion of grinding beads in multiple tube samples containing a sample to be pulverized.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and systems for organizing complex and disparate data. More specifically, the present invention provides methods and systems for organizing complex and disparate data into coherent data sets. Coherent data sets resulting from the methods and systems of the present invention serve as models for biological systems. Methods and systems for integrating data and creating coherent data sets are useful for numerous biological applications, such as, for example, determining gene function, identifying and validating drug and pesticide targets, identifying and validating drug and pesticide candidate compounds, profiling drug and pesticide compounds, producing a compilation of health or wellness profiles, determining compound site(s) of action, identifying unknown samples, and numerous other applications in the agricultural, pharmaceutical, forensic, and biotechnology industries.

Abstract: The present inventors have discovered that Asparagine Synthase is essential for fungal pathogenicity. Specifically, the inhibition of Asparagine Synthase gene expression in fungi results in no signs of successful infection or lesions. Thus, Asparagine Synthase can be used as a target for the identification of antibiotics, preferably antifungals. Accordingly, the present invention provides methods for the identification of compounds that inhibit Asparagine Synthase expression or activity. The methods of the invention are useful for the identification of antibiotics, preferably antifungals.

Abstract: A physics based model of the absorption of light by histological stains used to measure the amount of one or more stains at locations within tissue is disclosed. The subsequent analysis results in several improvements in the detection of tissue on a slide, improvements to autofocus algorithms so focusing during image acquisition is confined to tissue, improvements to image segmentation and identification of tissued and its features, improvements to the identification of stain where multiple stains are used, and improvements to the quantification of the extent of staining. The invention relates to the application of these improvements to stain detection and quantification to provide for objective comparison between tissues and closer correlation between the presentations of such features and concurrent patterns of gene or protein expression.

Abstract: The present inventors have discovered that Threonine synthase is essential for fungal pathogenicity. Specifically, the inhibition of Threonine synthase gene expression in fungi results in no signs of successful infection or lesions. Thus, Threonine synthase can be used as a target for the identification of antibiotics, preferably antifungals. Accordingly, the present invention provides methods for the identification of compounds that inhibit Threonine synthase expression or activity. The methods of the invention are useful for the identification of antibiotics, preferably antifungals.