Abstract: The present invention relates to methods, compositions and systems for detecting perchlorate in a sample. Compositions useful for detecting perchlorate in a sample include those comprising a perchlorate reductase, a reductant and an electron shuttle. In an exemplary embodiment, the composition comprises perchlorate reductase from Dechloromonas agitata, reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide and N-methylphenazinium methylsulfate. The present invention also provides for methods of using the compositions disclosed herein, as well as systems thereof. In some exemplary embodiments, the methods comprise a concentration step, in which, for example, the sample is contacted with a cationic solid phase extraction column. Employing this step provides certain advantages such as a lowered detection limit and the removal of contaminants.

Abstract: A RF coil for use with a resonance imaging device, the RF coil comprises a conductor comprising a first conductive region, a second conductive region substantially isolated from the first portion along its length, and at least one coupling portion adjacent to ends of the first and second portions and configured to electrically couple the first and second portions at a first predetermined frequency. The coil further includes a dielectric substrate supporting the conductor. The RF coil is configured to perform one of excitation, detection, reception, or a combination thereof. A method of using one or more RF coil is further disclosed.

Abstract: The invention provides methods and compositions for screening for modulators of EGFR activity. In particular, an assay for such modulators is provided, which includes methods of screening for modulators using models of the three dimensional structure of EGFR kinase domains.

Abstract: The invention provides methods and compositions for the modulation of EGFR activity, in particular, inhibition of EGFR activation through an allosteric mechanism is discloses, as is a method for targeted drug discovery and design based on models of the three dimensional structure of the kinase domains of the protein dimers.

Abstract: This invention relates to a new and distinctive male asparagus hybrid called ‘M256’. ‘M256’ has the ability to confer desirable traits on its progeny, such as early spear emergence, and produces offspring that have a higher proportion of marketable spears.

Abstract: The present invention provides a transcription amplification system, comprising an effector nucleic acid molecule and a reporter molecule, which work together to produce a heterologous gene product in a cell-type, specific manner. The present invention also relates to methods for producing, detecting, imaging, and monitoring the heterologous gene product in a cell or in a subject.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for stimulating Toll-like receptors (TLR) to activate IRF (e.g., an IRF3) and signaling pathway, and thereby directing an antimicrobial activity. The present invention also provides methods for identifying agents that bind and/or stimulate TLR and mediate induction of an IRF3 pathway, thereby directing an antimicrobial activity. Additionally, the invention provides methods and agents for suppressing stimulation of TLR, thereby directing an anti-inflammatory response.