Abstract: Amino acids present in domains of an umami taste receptor are described herein, wherein the amino acids interact with at least one nucleotide derivative and/or at least one transmembrane compound that potentiates, modulates, increases, and/or enhances the activity of the umami receptor. Such compounds can be used in flavor compositions to enhance the umami taste and/or palatability of food products.

Abstract: A flavor composition comprising at least one nucleotide derivative and/or at least one transmembrane compound that modulates, increases and/or enhances the activity of an umami receptor is provided that can be used to enhance the umami taste and/or palatability of food products. In certain, non-limiting embodiments, the flavor composition comprises at least one nucleotide derivative and/or at least one transmembrane compound, optionally at least one nucleotide, optionally at least one first amino acid, optionally at least one second amino acid.

Abstract: Methods for identifying compounds that modulate the activity and/or expression of a calcium-sensing receptor, wherein said compounds can be incorporated into flavor compositions that can be used to modify the kokumi taste and/or palatability of pet food products.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of identifying a compound that binds to or modulates the activity of one or more polypeptides encoding one or more receptors that are involved in the detection and perception of fatty acids.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for using speech to control the operation of a training application and executing a training application involving a plurality of trainees. In one implementation, a computer-implemented method is provided for using speech to control the operation of a training application. The method includes receiving audio data representing a response to a training exercise from an input source associated with a trainee. The method processes the received audio data to determine the content of the audio data and generates a command based on at least the processed audio data. The method further processes the generated command to control the operation of the training application.

Abstract: Halogen-free, oligomeric or polymeric, alkylene-bridged alkyl phosphonates having the general formula ##STR1## where n is a whole number of from 1 to 20;R.sup.1 and R.sup.5 are each C.sub.1 -C.sub.6 alkyl;R.sup.2 and R.sup.4 are each C.sub.2 -C.sub.10 alkyl andR.sup.3 is C.sub.2 -C.sub.10 alkyl.The use of such phosphonates as, or in connection with, a flame-retardant (e.g. for polyurethane foams, resins and composites, epoxy resins, phenolic resins, paints, varnishes or textiles).

Abstract: The invention comprises a novel sample introduction system which incorporates a venturi pump to convey a sample gas to an analytical instrument at atmospheric pressure. An APCI, ICP or MIP mass spectrometer is preferred as the analytical instrument. Using such an inlet with an APCI mass spectrometer, the real-time analysis of trace materials present in breath is facilitated, enabling, for example, the release of compounds responsible for aroma and taste to be analysed during eating and drinking. The invention can also be used for headspace analysis and for monitoring the release of fragrances from skin or clothing.