Abstract: The present invention relates to novel protein pores and their uses in analyte detection and characterisation. The invention particularly relates to an isolated pore complex formed by a CsgG-like pore and a modified CsgF peptide, or a homologue or mutant thereof, thereby incorporating an additional channel constriction or reader head in the nanopore. The invention further relates to a transmembrane pore complex and methods for production of the pore complex and for use in molecular sensing and nucleic acid sequencing applications.

Abstract: Starch-based extruded food products and methods for manufacturing starch-based extruded food products, such as snacks, are disclosed. For example, a starch-based dough may be extruded, cut, and cooked to form a starch-based extruded food product with a rigid extruded body. The cooking process may include baking and/or frying the cut extrusion. The rigid extruded body of the starch-based extruded food product is made up of bodies or segments coupled at joints. The rigid extruded bodies are configured such that bodies of the rigid extruded body may be broken off or separated at the joints to be consumed.

Abstract: The present invention includes an antimicrobial peptide consisting of, consisting essentially of, or comprising, at least one of SEQ ID NO:1-20, nucleic acids encoding the peptides, methods for using the antimicrobial peptide generating plants which express the peptides sufficient to endow the plants with resistance to pathogenic bacteria and fungi, the use of the nucleic acids to produce peptides by cellular production such as fermentation or plant production systems of the antimicrobial peptide(s), and the use of the isolated antimicrobial peptide(s) in a spray or other mixture to treat plants to protect them from disease.

Abstract: Aspergillus flavus is an opportunistic, saprophytic fungus that infects maize and other fatty acid-rich food and feed crops and produces toxic and carcinogenic secondary metabolites known as aflatoxins. In vitro studies showed a five-fold increase in antifungal activity of AGM182 (vs. tachyplesin1) against A. flavus. Transgenic maize plants expressing AGM182 under maize Ubiquitin-1 promoter were produced through Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. PCR products confirmed integration of the AGM182 gene, while RT-PCR of maize RNA confirmed the presence of AGM182 transcripts. Maize kernel screening assay using a highly aflatoxigenic A. flavus strain (AF70) showed up to 72% reduction in fungal growth in the transgenic AGM182 seeds compared to isogenic negative control seeds.

Abstract: This invention relates to novel synthetic lytic peptide fragments of full-length peptides with the capacity to modulate angiogenic activity in mammals. The invention also relates to the use of such peptides in pharmaceutical compositions and in methods for treating diseases or disorders that are associated with angiogenic activity.

Abstract: This invention relates to novel lytic peptides which are effective in treating citrus plant diseases including canker and greening. The invention also relates to antimicrobial compositions comprising lytic peptides and the use of such compositions in methods for treating diseases of citrus plants.

Abstract: This invention relates to novel synthetic lytic peptide fragments of full-length peptides with the capacity to modulate angiogenic activity in mammals. The invention also relates to the use of such peptides in pharmaceutical compositions and in methods for treating diseases or disorders that are associated with angiogenic activity.

Abstract: This invention relates to novel lytic peptides which are effective in treating citrus plant diseases including canker and greening. The invention also relates to antimicrobial compositions comprising lytic peptides and the use of such compositions in methods for treating diseases of citrus plants.

Abstract: This invention relates to novel synthetic lytic peptide fragments of full-length peptides with the capacity to modulate angiogenic activity in mammals. The invention also relates to the use of such peptides in pharmaceutical compositions and in methods for treating diseases or disorders that are associated with angiogenic activity.

Abstract: The present invention is a multi-source powered audio playback system which integrates multiple energy charging sources that charge an internal battery, with a digital audio player and an analog audio amplifier and multiple audio outputs. In one embodiment, the present invention includes a mechanical power generating means, rectifier, solar power cell, blocking circuit, external AC/DC charger, blocking circuit, charge control circuit, at least one rechargeable battery pack, a power control circuit, a digital audio player, at least one mass memory device with secure content, voltage regulator circuit, power supply de-coupling circuit, analog audio amplifier, output circuit and a waterproof speaker. The audio content is secured by the elimination of a consumer usable data port and/or password protection. The invention optimally provides an audio output signal that is sufficient for private, room or group use.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the creation, placement and control of an area of electrical ionization within an internal combustion engine combustion chamber or a fuel burner for a furnace is disclosed. A furnace includes a fuel source, a fuel burner, a plasma nozzle and igniter assembly, and the associated housing and flue structures. The plasma nozzle and igniter assembly is arranged so that the fuel sprayed out from the nozzle into the combustion area passes through or in close proximity to the area of plasma ionization. A fuel burner equipped with this electrical ionization device has its fuel efficiency enhanced by the complete and immediate combustion of substantially all of the fuel that passes through the area of plasma ionization. Exhaust gas recirculation using this system is also disclosed.