Abstract: An object of the present invention is to obtain a fermentative yeast having a highly efficient ethanol production without introducing a foreign gene. A further object is to obtain a fermentative yeast that is resistant to proliferation inhibitors such as organic acids, which prevent the growth of the fermentative yeast. Yeast having improved ethanol production ability was generated by introducing transaldolase and alcohol dehydrogenase gene by self-cloning to Meyerozyma guilliermondii that can produce ethanol effectively from pentose and hexose obtained by breeding. This fermentative yeast is deposited to NITE Patent Microorganisms Depositary under the accession number NITE ABP-01976.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process of producing isobutanol, including: mixing water, lactate, an enzyme mixture including at least one enzyme, at least one cofactor, and at least one coenzyme, to prepare a reaction mixture; allowing catalytic conversions of lactate in the reaction mixture for a sufficient amount of time to produce isobutanol; and separating the isobutanol from a reactant obtained by the catalytic conversions, in which the conversion of lactate into isobutanol is in association with a NADH+/NADH and/or NADP+/NADPH regenerating system.

Abstract: The invention relates to a genetically modified lactic acid bacterium capable of producing (S,S)-2,3-butanediol stereo specifically from glucose under aerobic conditions. Additionally the invention relates to a method for producing (S,S)-2,3-butanediol and L-acetoin using the genetically modified lactic acid bacterium, under aerobic conditions in the presence of a source of iron-containing porphyrin or a source of metal ions (Fe3+/Fe2+). The lactic acid bacterium is genetically modified to express heterologous genes encoding enzymes catalysing the stereo-specific synthesis of (S,S)-2,3-butandiol; and additionally a number of genes are deleted in order to maximise the production of (S,S)-2,3-butanediol as compared to other products of oxidative fermentation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to: a novel Pichia kudriavzevii microorganism NG7 showing heat resistance and acid resistance; a composition, for producing organic acid or alcohol, which comprises the microorganism and a culture of the same; and a method, for producing an organic acid or alcohol, which comprises culturing the microorganism.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods of synthesizing long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially eicosapentaenoic acid, docosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, in recombinant cells such as yeast or plant cells. Also provided are recombinant cells or plants which produce long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a group of new enzymes which possess desatorase or elongase activity that can be used in methods of synthesizing long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Abstract: The present compositions and methods relate to a beta-glucosidase from Glomerella graminicola, polynucleotides encoding the beta-glucosidase, and methods of making and/or use thereof. Formulations containing the beta-glucosidase may be suitable for use in hydrolyzing lignocellulosic biomass substrates.

Abstract: Provided herein is a process for hydrolyzing a cellulosic feedstock to produce sugar. The process comprises introducing a pretreated cellulosic slurry to an inlet region of a plug flow hydrolysis reactor using a slurry introduction device that reduces the axial momentum of the slurry at the surface of the reactor contents. The cellulosic feedstock slurry is hydrolyzed in the plug flow hydrolysis reactor by contacting the cellulosic feedstock with at least cellulase enzymes to produce glucose. Also provided herein is a vertically-oriented, unmixed downflow hydrolysis reactor for hydrolyzing a pretreated cellulosic feedstock slurry which comprises such a slurry introduction device disposed in a top region thereof.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods of processing mixtures comprising ?-glucans and polysaccharides.

Abstract: Methods and compositions relate to the assembly of high fidelity nucleic acids. Specifically, nucleic acid molecules having a desired predetermined sequence can be assembled after failure to assemble in conventional assembly. Aspects of the disclosure relate to methods of assembling a target nucleic acid molecule having a desired or predetermined sequence.

Abstract: A method for generating sequence ready fragments of nucleotide sequences is described, the method making use of “bubble primers” which include first and third portions which hybridise to a target, and a second partly self-complementary portion which forms an unhybridised loop. The loop contains generic sequences allowing use of sequencing primers. The first portion may be degradable so as to generate an amplicon of sequence of interest flanked by the third portion and the generic sequences of the second portion. In preferred embodiments, the second portion, or the region between the second portion and the third portion, also comprises a tetrad of nucleotides A, C, G, T, allowing calibration of the sequencing reaction.

Abstract: Methods of producing single-stranded deoxyribonucleic acids (ssDNAs) are provided. Aspects of the methods include generating a double stranded deoxyribonucleic acid (dsDNA) and then selectively degrading one strand of the dsDNA to produce a ssDNA. ssDNAs produced using methods of the invention find use in a variety of applications, including genomic modification applications. Also provided are compositions, e.g., kits, that find use in practicing various embodiments of the invention.

Abstract: Disclosed are compositions, methods, and kits for enhanced synthesis of a biological macromolecule in vitro using cell-free protein synthesis. The compositions, methods, and kits include or utilize: a cell-free extract; a phosphate-free energy source; and a phosphate source, and typically do not include an exogenous nucleoside triphosphate or an exogenous nucleoside diphosphate.

Abstract: A reagent for detecting an analyte comprises a flavoprotein enzyme, a mediator such as a phenothiazine mediator, at least one surfactant, a polymer and a buffer. The reagent may be used with an electrochemical test sensor that includes a plurality of electrodes.

Abstract: The invention relates to markers for Crohn's disease and to specific compounds for detecting said markers. The invention also relates to methods for detecting, diagnosing and monitoring the progression of Crohn's disease as well as to methods for evaluating the efficacy of a treatment for said disease, and to compositions and kits that can be used for implementing said methods.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for detecting a plant pathogen spore in soil or water. The present invention also relates to a method for detection of a plant pathogen spore. The device for detecting a plant pathogen spore in soil or water comprises a support member containing a plant pathogen chemoattractant; a filter having a plurality of pores; a culture medium containing a plant pathogen chemoattractant; and a detection means; wherein the support member is adjacent to the filter and the filter is adjacent to the culture medium.

Abstract: A method for determining a quantity Ginhib quantifying the inhibitory capacity of a molecule on a type of microorganism includes: preparing a plurality of samples, including microorganisms of the type, a nutrient medium for the microorganism and an initial amount of the molecule per microorganism increasing in a range [Qmin, Qmax] as a function of a classification of the samples; measuring the growth of the microorganisms in the samples as a function of time; and determining the quantity Ginhib as a function of the measurements of the growth. Determination of the quantity Ginhib includes: for each sample, calculating a value reflecting the growth of the microorganism of said type based on measurements of growth; classifying the values calculated for the samples as a function of the classification of the samples; and determining the quantity Ginhib as a function of the variation of the classified values.

Abstract: The invention provides an enzymatic method for measuring the concentration of one or more analytes in the plasma portion of a blood derived sample, containing a first and a second component, where said second component interferes with the measurement of said first component.

Abstract: In certain embodiments, the present invention provides amplification methods in which nucleotide tag(s) and, optionally, a barcode nucleotide sequence are added to target nucleotide sequences. In other embodiments, the present invention provides a microfluidic device that includes a plurality of first input lines and a plurality of second input lines. The microfluidic device also includes a plurality of sets of first chambers and a plurality of sets of second chambers. Each set of first chambers is in fluid communication with one of the plurality of first input lines. Each set of second chambers is in fluid communication with one of the plurality of second input lines. The microfluidic device further includes a plurality of first pump elements in fluid communication with a first portion of the plurality of second input lines and a plurality of second pump elements in fluid communication with a second portion of the plurality of second input lines.

Abstract: A biochip; a liquid which has a different specific gravity from that of the reaction mixture and is immiscible with the reaction mixture; and an additive containing, as a principal component, a carbinol-modified silicone resin, a carboxyl-modified silicone resin, an amino-modified silicone resin, a polyether-modified silicone resin, a silanol-modified silicone resin, or a fluoro-modified silicone resin, wherein the vessel comprising, a flow channel that is capable of flowing a liquid droplet of a reaction mixture containing a surfactant in the longitudinal direction of the vessel.

Abstract: The invention is directed to compositions and methods for collecting, transporting, and storing microorganisms obtained from samples of biological, clinical, forensic, and environmental origin. Compositions preserve the viability of the collected organisms and permit the long-term storage of samples. Compositions are compatible with subsequent manipulation of the sample, including propagation and culture of the collected microorganisms, or isolation, purification, detection, and characterization of proteins, nucleic acids, and all macromolecules. When the compositions containing microorganisms and any polynucleotides therein are further processed, such as by nucleic acid testing, there is an increased ability to detect, isolate, purify and/or characterize select microbes and their components, such as nucleic acids, when compared to conventional microbial transport media that contain interfering substance(s).

Abstract: The invention relates to methods for detecting microbial blood infections including sepsis in a subject, preferably a neonate or a non-neonate such as an adult, the method comprising real-time PCR reactions for detection of specific microorganisms. Said methods preferably include treatment of a subject following detection of a specific microorganism or group of microorganisms. The invention further relates to a kit of parts adapted for performing a method of the invention, a set of at least one forward or re verse primer or probe and a method for monitoring sepsis or for determining the efficacy of an anti-sepsis treatment.

Abstract: Disclosed are nucleic acid oligomers, including amplification oligomers, capture probes, and detection probes, for detection of a 16S rRNA or its encoding gene from bacterial species associated with bacterial vaginosis. Also disclosed are methods of specific nucleic acid amplification and detection using the disclosed oligomers, as well as corresponding reaction mixtures and kits.

Abstract: Provided herein are methods and compositions for the detection of target nucleic acids using target reporter constructs (TRCs) which comprise target sequences complementary to the target nucleic acid. Further provided are methods of replicating the TRCs using rolling circle replication and/or rolling circle amplification to produce replicated TRCs which can be detected using probe sequences within the replicated TRCs.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for detection of one or more specific sequences of polynucleotides in a solution using a nanopore. In some embodiments, methods and compositions for identifying a polynucleotide in a sample or for target sequence detection of a polynucleotide are disclosed herein.

Abstract: A method, computer program product, and system for identifying a surface area size of a biosensing structure, for use in a biosensor device, based on a plurality of nucleotides structures under test. A first set of properties are determined comprising: reaction coordinate values, and potential of mean force (PMF) values, for the plurality of nucleotide structures based on a first set of testing conditions comprising a first surface area material, a first surface area pattern, and a first surface area size. A second set of properties is determined comprising reaction coordinate values, and PMF values, for the plurality of nucleotide structures based on a second set of testing conditions comprising a second surface area material, a second surface area pattern, a second surface area size, or a combination thereof and a target population of nucleotide structures among the plurality of nucleotide structures are identified.

Abstract: Method for immobilization of a labeled oligonucleotide on a non-modified polymer substrate, the method comprising the following steps: a) providing a mixture comprising liquid, and a labeled oligonucleotide b) applying the mixture of step a) on a non-modified polymer substrate, wherein the oligonucleotide is immobilized on the non-modified polymer substrate via physisorption conveyed by the label of the oligonucleotide and wherein the label for immobilization is covalently bound to the oligonucleotide; and microarrays achieved by this method. The invention further relates to the use of a label attached to an oligonucleotide for immobilization of the labeled oligonucleotide on a non-modified polymer substrate by physisorption. Furthermore the invention relates to the use of the microarrays achieved by the method describe herein for assays and diagnostic kits comprising such microarrays.

Abstract: A method of determining the risk of cognitive decline in an aging subject is provided. The method includes analyzing an MRNA transcript including a GRIN2B nucleic acid sequence for the presence of the A allele in a biological sample obtained from the subject. The method also includes identifying the subject as having a decreased risk of cognitive decline when the A allele is present.

Abstract: System and methods for identifying nucleotides based on data acquired from a sensor during sequencing of nucleic acids. The method may include obtaining characteristics of light detected from luminescent labels associated with the nucleotides during nucleotide incorporation events. The characteristics may include, for each nucleotide incorporation event, a temporal characteristic the light and an intensity characteristic of the light. The temporal characteristic representing a speed of decay of a probability of photon emission by a luminescent label after excitation. The method may further include grouping points representing the characteristics of the nucleotide incorporation events into groups of points. The individual points may represent at least the temporal characteristic and the intensity characteristic for a corresponding nucleotide incorporation event. The method may further include assigning the groups of points to individual nucleotides.

Abstract: Disclosed is a high-throughput detection method for a DNA synthesis product. According to the method of the present invention, a high-throughput sequencing technology is applied to detection of a DNA chip synthesis product through a mixed library construction strategy, so that costs of product detection and accurate product screening are reduced.

Abstract: The application describes a cell line identification assay kit comprising: (a) one or more genotyping agents; (b) one or more rodent-specific agents; (c) one or more mycoplasma-specific markers; and optionally (d) one or more gender-specific markers.

Abstract: The present invention relates to in vitro methods for the diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), wherein the expression of the marker gene TMSB15A is determined. In particular, the invention relates to an in vitro diagnostic method of assessing the susceptibility of a subject to develop progressive COPD involving the appearance of irreversible lung damage, wherein the expression of the marker gene TMSB15A and optionally one or more further marker genes selected from DMBT1, KIAA1 T99, DPP6, SLC51B, NUDT11, ELF5, AZGP1, PRRX1, AQP3, SFN, GPR110, GDF15, RASGRF2, RND1, PLA1A, FGG, CEACAM5, HYAL2, AHRR, CXCL3, CYP1A1, CYP1 B1, CYP1A2, CST6, NTRK2, COMP, ITGA10, CTHRC1, TAL1, FIBIN, BEX5, BEX1, ESM1 and GHRL is determined.

Abstract: Techniques are provided for detecting hematological disorders using cell-free DNA in a blood sample, e.g., using plasma or serum. For example, an assay can target one or more differentially-methylated regions specific to a particular hematological cell lineage (e.g., erythroblasts). A methylation level can be quantified from the assay to determine an amount of methylated or unmethylated DNA fragments in a cell-free mixture of the blood sample. The methylation level can be compared to one or more cutoff values, e.g., that correspond to a normal range for the particular hematological cell lineage as part of determining a level of a hematological disorder.

Abstract: Methods of selecting a subject with cancer for treatment with an active agent that modifies pyruvate metabolism, the TCA cycle, or oxidative phosphorylation, as well as methods of treating the subject, determining the efficacy of the treatment, and adjusting the treatment dosage and frequency are provided. Methods of selecting and treating as subject typically include, (a) detecting the level of one or more biomarkers selected from the group consisting of one or more Mitochondrial Pyruvate Carriers (MPC), one or more components of the Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Complex (PDC), or mitochondrial glutamine transporter in diseased or disordered cells obtained from the subject; and (b) selecting the subject for treatment if the subject meets certain criteria and (c) administering the subject an effective amount of an active agent that modifies pyruvate metabolism, the TCA cycle, a related metabolic pathway, or oxidative phosphorylation to treat the disease or disorder.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to compositions and methods for identifying the regulatory network that modulates, controls or otherwise influences T cell balance, for example, Th17 cell differentiation, maintenance and/or function, as well compositions and methods for exploiting the regulatory network that modulates, controls or otherwise influences T cell balance in a variety of therapeutic and/or diagnostic indications. This invention also relates generally to identifying and exploiting target genes and/or target gene products that modulate, control or otherwise influence T cell balance in a variety of therapeutic and/or diagnostic indications.

Abstract: The present application relates to methods and compositions for detecting thyroid cancer in mammals, in particular in humans. The invention provides novel biomarkers which, in combination, allow effective, specific and sensitive detection of thyroid cancer, particularly to assist in the diagnosis of thyroid lesions in human subjects. The invention further relates to tools and/or kits (such as reagents, probes, primers, chips or arrays) suitable for implementing said methods, and the preparation and uses thereof.

Abstract: A method of determining the risk of metastatic prostate cancer in an individual diagnosed with prostate cancer, the method comprising a step of assaying a biological sample obtained from the individual for the presence of at last one methylated regulatory DNA sequence selected from group comprising: SEQUENCE ID No's 1 to 16, or variants thereof, and correlating the presence or absence of the methylated regulatory DNA sequence with aggressive (metastatic) prostate cancer.

Abstract: The invention comprises novel methods and compositions for detecting whether a patient will be responsive to ALK inhibitors and methods of treating the patient.

Abstract: There is a need for improved methods for determining the diagnosis and prognosis of patients with conditions, including autoimmune disease and cancer, especially lymphoid neoplasms, such as lymphomas and leukemias. Provided herein are methods for using DNA sequencing to identify personalized, or patient-specific biomarkers in patients with lymphoid neoplasms, autoimmune disease and other conditions. Identified biomarkers can be used to determine and/or monitor the disease state for a subject with an associated lymphoid disorder or autoimmune disease or other condition. In particular, the invention provides a sensitive method for monitoring lymphoid neoplasms that undergo clonal evolutions without the need to development alternative assays for the evolved or mutated clones serving as patient-specific biomarkers.

Abstract: A method for predicting a survival rate of a breast cancer patient, including: providing a biological sample of the breast cancer patient; measuring miR-125a-5p expression level in the biological sample; and comparing the miR-125a-5p expression level in the biological sample of the breast cancer patient with miR-125a-5p expression level in another biological sample of a reference breast cancer patient. When the miR-125a-5p expression level in the biological sample of the breast cancer patient is lower than that of the reference breast cancer patient, the survival rate of the breast cancer patient is lower than that of the reference breast cancer patient. When the miR-125a-5p expression level in the biological sample of the breast cancer patient is greater than that of the reference breast cancer patient, the survival rate of the breast cancer patient is greater than that of the reference breast cancer patient.

Abstract: A photo-responsive composite actuator according to the present invention includes a polymeric scaffold film; an azobenzene liquid crystal polymer applied on a surface of the polymeric scaffold film; and a protective film attached to a surface of the azobenzene liquid crystal polymer.

Abstract: Remote access methods and systems for plant pathogen (e.g., fungi or fungus-like organisms) assessment and management, and uses thereof, in particular for real-time agricultural applications, are described herein. In embodiments, the method and systems combine the capture of pathogenic spores (e.g., by impaction on an adhesive surface), laboratory analysis to identify the spores (e.g., by microscopy and/or PGR), collecting weather data, determining the level of risk for each pathogen, and providing an output to a user, who may for example access such risk data remotely as a risk report. A weather station is installed in proximity to the field/area where the spore sampling/collection occurs, and allows the constant transfer of weather data to effect the risk assessment. The risk assessment may be used to direct and optimize pesticide (e.g., fungicide) application in accordance with the pathogen identification and assessed risk level.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods of processing lignocellulosic material to obtain hemicellulose sugars, cellulose sugars, lignin, cellulose and other high-value products. Also provided are hemicellulose sugars, cellulose sugars, lignin, cellulose, and other high-value products.

Abstract: Process for dephosphorization of molten metal during a refining process using a lime composition in the form of compacted particles having a Shatter Test Index of less than 20%, leading to a refined metal reduced in phosphorus components to the extent that the refined metal reduced in phosphorus is showing a phosphorus content lower than 0.02 w % based on the total weight of the refined metal reduced in phosphorus.

Abstract: Disclosed are a high-strength and high-toughness steel plate with an 800 MPa grade tensile strength and a method for manufacturing the same, the chemical composition of the steel plate in weight percentage being: C: 0.15-0.25%, Si: 1.0-2.0%, Mn: 1.2-2.0%, P?0.015%, S?0.005%, Al: 0.5-1.0%, N: ?0.006%, Nb: 0.02-0.06%, O?0.003%, and the balance being Fe and other inevitable impurities, and 1.5%?Si+Al?2.5%. By adopting an isothermal heat treatment a high-strength and high-toughness steel plate with an 800 MPa grade tensile strength, which has a microstructure mainly including bainite ferrite and residual austenite, is obtained impact energy.

Abstract: The invention provides a production method for stabilizers which produces with high productivity in a compact production line, without tempering. The production method for stabilizers of the invention includes: forming a steel bar material containing at least C: 0.15 wt % to 0.39 wt %, Mn, B and Fe into a product shape by bending; and quenching the bent steel bar material in a medium having a heat transfer coefficient higher than or close to that of water.

Abstract: A stabilizer formed by using a metal bar having a solid structure and configured to reduce a displacement between right and left wheels, including a torsion part extending in a vehicle width direction, being capable of a torsional deformation, and having a diameter of 10 to 32 mm, is provided. The stabilizer has a chemical composition containing at least C: 0.15% by mass or more to 0.39% by mass or less, Mn, B, and Fe, and also has a metal structure 90% or more of which is a martensite structure.

Abstract: A high-strength seamless steel pipe for oil country tubular goods comprising, by mass %, C: 0.20% to 0.50%, Si: 0.05% to 0.40%, Mn: 0.3% to 0.9%, P: 0.015% or less, S: 0.005% or less, Al: 0.005% to 0.1%, N: 0.006% or less, Mo: more than 1.0% to 3.0% or less, V: 0.01% to less than 0.05%, Nb: 0.001% to less than 0.01%, B: 0.0003% to 0.0030%, O: 0.0030% or less, and Ti: 0.003% to 0.025%, and wherein Ti/N: 2.0 to 5.0 is satisfied, a volume fraction of a tempered martensitic is 95% or more, prior austenite grains have a grain size number of 8.

Abstract: A high-strength seamless steel pipe for oil country tubular goods comprising, by mass %, C: 0.20% to 0.50%, Si: 0.05% to 0.40%, Mn: more than 0.6% to 1.5% or less, P: 0.015% or less, S: 0.005% or less, Al: 0.005% to 0.1%, N: 0.006% or less, Mo: more than 1.0% to 3.0% or less, V: 0.05% to 0.3%, Nb: 0.001% to 0.020%, B: 0.0003% to 0.0030%, O: 0.0030% or less, and Ti: 0.003% to 0.025%, and wherein Ti/N: 2.0 to 5.0 is satisfied, a volume fraction of a tempered martensitic is 95% or more, prior austenite grains have a grain size number of 8.

Abstract: A method quenches a steel pipe and an apparatus quenches a steel pipe by which a steel pipe having excellent and uniform quality can be acquired by applying uniform rapid cooling to the steel pipe in a longitudinal direction as well as in a circumferential direction of the steel pipe using a simple unit. Movements of a heated steel pipe in a direction parallel to and in a direction perpendicular to a pipe axis of the steel pipe are stopped, and cooling water is jetted onto an outer surface of the steel pipe from four or more spray nozzles arranged spirally outside the steel pipe while rotating the steel pipe about the pipe axis.

Abstract: A quenched-tempered high-strength steel having a yield strength of 900-1000 MPa grade and a method of producing the same, with the components and amounts thereof by weight percentage being: C: 0.16-0.20%, Si: 0.10-0.30%, Mn: 0.80-1.60%, Cr: 0.20-0.70%, Mo: 0.10-0.45%, Ni: 0.10-0.50%, Nb: 0.010-0.030%, Ti: 0.010-0.030%, V: 0.010-0.050%, B: 0.0005-0.0030%, Al: 0.02-0.06%, Ca: 0.001-0.004%, N: 0.002-0.005%, P?0.020%, S?0.010%, O?0.008%, and the balance of Fe and unavoidable impurities, and Ceq 0.51-0.60%, Ceq=C+Mn/6+(Cr+Mo+V)/5+(Ni+Cu)/15; 3.7?Ti/N?7.0; 1.0?Ca/S?3.0; 0.8%?Mo+0.8Ni+0.4Cr+6V?1.3%. By using a process of controlling rolling, controlling cooling, and off-line quenching+tempering, a steel sheet produced according to the disclosure has a yield strength of 900-1080 MPa, a tensile strength of 950-1200 MPa, an elongation >10%, and an impact energy at ?40° C. >40 J.