Abstract: A method is disclosed for synthesizing a compound that includes gallotannins from a part of a maple tree, into new skin whitening compounds. The method includes the step of isolating the gallotannin from the part of the maple tree.

Abstract: An environmentally sensitive membrane binding polypeptide, pH (low)-sensitive membrane peptide (pHLIP) has improved insertion kinetics balanced with solubility to selectively target acidic tissues.

Abstract: An antenna system is disclosed that provides a directional radiation field. The antenna system includes at least two monopole antennas, each of which provides a differential connector. Each differential connector is associated with a signal having a different phase such that a radiation field associated with said antenna system is other than a radiation field that would exist if each differential connector were associated with the signal having the same phase.

Abstract: The invention provides novel compositions based on a structure designated as “Honaucin A”, including Honaucin A variants and analogs, and pharmaceutical compositions, liposomes and nanoparticles comprising them, and methods of making and using them. In one embodiment, these Honaucin A compounds, and variants and analogs thereof are used to ameliorate (including to treat or prevent) inflammation. In one embodiment, these Honaucin A compounds, and variants and analogs thereof are used to ameliorate (including to treat or prevent) inflammation. In one embodiment, these Honaucin A compounds, and variants and analogs thereof are used as bacterial quorumsensing inhibitors. Accordingly, in alternative embodiments the compositions of the invention are used as anti-bacterial agents.

Abstract: Isac, a novel protein with anticomplement activity is disclosed. Isac can be isolated from the salivary glands of ticks or made by recombinant methods using various DNA expression techniques.

Abstract: The invention features a method of treating polyester material to generate functional carboxylic acid and amine groups. These functional groups can be used as sites for covalent bond formation to attach chemical or biological moieties. This bifunctionalized polyester polymer can be used in any medical application in which biocompatible polymers are used.

Abstract: An oxygen analyzer which measures the level of dissolved oxygen in a liquid stream. The measuring process embodies chronoamperoemetry of pulsed potential voltammetry. The signal from the electrode is real time averaged. The analyzer does not require temperature, salinity or pressure compensation circuitry and does not have to be calibrated repeatedly.

Abstract: A robot assembly for acquiring unorientated workpieces from a bin. A sensing system views the bin and collects data. A computer analyzes the data to determine candidate holdsites on the workpiece. The hand of the robot assembly then engages a workpiece at a selected holdsite. The workpiece is moved to a pose where the position and orientation of the workpiece are determined. After this determination, the workpiece may be disengaged, or moved to an intermediate or final goal site.

Abstract: Plant-derived organic material is converted to high BTU gas by heating the organic material with ammonia in the presence of a vanadium +3 or +4 catalyst and a hydrogenation catalyst in an atmosphere substantially free of oxygen.