Abstract: Systems, methods, and computer readable media for diagnosing or characterizing a genetic predisposition to develop cancer, including cancers of the BAP1 cancer syndrome, are provided. Nucleic acids comprising a germline nucleic acid sequence encoding the BRCA1 associated protein 1 (BAP1) are sequenced or probed to determine if the nucleic acid sequence includes alterations that predispose a subject to develop cancer.

Abstract: This invention relates to a nucleic acid construct. The construct includes a nucleic acid molecule configured to silence Banana bunchy top virus (BBTV), a 5? DNA promoter sequence, and a 3? terminator sequence. The nucleic acid molecule, the promoter, and the terminator are operatively coupled to permit transcription of the nucleic acid molecule. The present invention also relates to expression vectors, host cells, and transgenic plants containing the nucleic acid construct of the present invention. Also disclosed are methods of imparting BBTV resistance to plants.

Abstract: Modified forms of human serum albumin (HSA) wherein the arginine at position 218 is substituted by a less basic amino acid show strong thyroxin-binding activity. These modified forms of HSA and fragments thereof are useful in binding thyroxin in standard assays for free thyroxin concentration and in treating conditions characterized by higher-than-desired levels of free thyroxin in animal subjects.