Abstract: The present invention provides conjugates comprising a substituted aminopyridine covalently attached to an organic molecule via an amide bond. Such conjugates find utility as substrates for amide hydrolases, where the substituted aminopyridine acts as a fluorescent reporter of amide hydrolase activity. As a result, the conjugates described herein can advantageously be used in assays to detect amide hydrolase activity based upon measuring the fluorescence of a substituted aminopyridine that is released after amide hydrolysis. The conjugates of the present invention are also particularly useful in screening assays, which enable the identification of inhibitory molecules for amide hydrolases and other enzymes. The identified amide hydrolase inhibitors can be used in the treatment of a variety of diseases and disorders associated with aberrant amide hydrolase activity.

Abstract: The present invention discloses that a plant essential oil, lemongrass oil, is an effective pre and post emergence herbicide on both broadleaved and grass weeds. The lemongrass oil may be combined with corn oil and/or other oil and/or an organic acid, surfactants and other formulation ingredients to control the germination and growth of weeds. As a natural, non-toxic compound, it can be used as a safe alternative for weed control in organic farming systems.

Abstract: The present invention discloses that a natural tropolone compound, hinokitiol, also known as ?-Thujaplicin as an effective biopesticide for use in controlling plant pests. In particular, hinokitiol and/or salts thereof may be used in modulating non-Erwinia plant microbial infection or in the formulation of a non-Erwinia antimicrobial agent. Alternatively, hinokitiol may be used as a natural herbicide to control the germination and growth of weeds. The formulation used in the present invention may contain a chelator, pH adjustor and UV protection agent in an amount effective to stabilize said hinokitiol.

Abstract: Inhibitors of the soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) are provided that incorporate multiple pharmacophores and are useful in the treatment of diseases.