Abstract: The present invention provides a biogas production system comprising: at least one digester for generating biogas and digestate, each digester comprising: a first end portion, a second end portion, and a peripheral side-wall there-between; one or more inlets, wherein at least one inlet is arranged to receive organic substrates; one or more outlets, wherein at least one outlet is arranged to release biogas; and a feed system comprising a pit arranged to receive and supply said organic substrates to the digester, said inlet positioned adjacent to a lower portion of said pit, the pit arranged such that a weight of the organic substrates within the pit bias the organic substrates into the digester.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a flow assembly for cells comprises a first flow path configured to receive a plurality of cells, a second flow path configured to receive a buffer, and a third flow path configured to receive the plurality of cells and the buffer. The plurality of cells are in a single-file orientation and the buffer generally surrounds the single-file orientation of the plurality of cells when in the third flow path.

Abstract: In some aspects, the invention relates to automated cell culture incubators and their methods of use. In one aspect, the disclosure provides cell culture incubators having an airlock chamber, a storage chamber and/or an internal chamber. In some aspects, the disclosure provides methods for producing autologous mammalian cell cultures.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for conducting the identification and quantification of micro-organisms, e.g., bacteria, in biological samples. More particularly, the invention relates to a system comprising a disposable cartridge and an optics cup or cuvette having a tapered surface; wherein the walls are angled to allow for better coating and better striations of the light. The system may utilize the disposable cartridge in the sample processor and the optics cup or cuvette in the optical analyzer, wherein the optics cup also has a floor in the shape of an inverted arch.

Abstract: A modular automated system for sample processing and/or detection of microorganisms is provided. The modular system includes modules that perform at least one function in the process of detecting microorganisms in a culture device, such as collection of multiple samples, sample loading, sample preparation, sample incubation, and detection of microorganisms in samples. An exemplary embodiment of a modular sample processing and/or detection system can include an automated loading module, a liquid processing module, modular incubator, a second automated loading module, a reader module, and a collector.

Abstract: The purpose of the present invention is to provide a means for dispersing cell aggregates without damaging the cells, such that a sufficient multiplication rate can be obtained in a subculture. According to the present invention, provided is a cell-suspension processing device which disperses cell aggregates included in a cell suspension. The device is provided with: an inlet for taking in the cell suspension; an outlet for discharging the processed cell suspension; and a flow path which is provided between the inlet and the outlet, and which is capable of holding the cell suspension. The flow path has, provided thereto, a liquid delivery pump for causing the cell suspension inside to flow, a cell-dispersion-degree measurement instrument for measuring the dispersion degree of cells in the cell suspension, and a narrow part for imparting shearing force to the cell suspension flowing inside.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of separating cultured cells, which is used in a configuration including: a first accommodation space; a cell suspension which is present in a liquid in the first accommodation space in a state in which a plurality of cells is connected to one another; a filter container which is hermetically connected to the first accommodation space and mounted with a cell dividing member having one or more through holes having an average diameter of 5 ?m to 300 ?m; and a second accommodation space which is hermetically connected to the filter container, in which the cell suspension flows from the first accommodation space to the second accommodation space through the filter, such that the connection between the cells is passively and mechanically separated while the cells collide with a fixed resistance portion of the filter.

Abstract: A method for continuous in vitro propagation of Babesia microti and microti-like species is disclosed. The method comprises incubating B. microti in culture medium comprising host erythrocytes in the presence of a source of complement and a source of anti-B. microti IgM antibody. In one embodiment, the source of anti-B. microti IgM antibody is substantially free of IgG antibody. In one embodiment, the source of complement is a cell or cell line that secretes complement.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a culture medium specific for microorganisms of Mycoplasma genus and, in particular, for species of hardly cultivable Mycoplasma (Mycoplasma genitalium, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Mycoplasma penetrans, Mycoplasma fermentans, Mycoplasma pirium and/or Mycoplasma hyorhinis). The present invention also provides an in vitro method for the growth and/or isolation and/or identification of species belonging to the Mycoplasma genus as well as growth supports using such culture medium.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cell culture medium for culturing human cells comprising an anti-coagulated total blood material wherein the hemoglobin level is from about 8 to about 16 g/dl. More particularly, the invention provides a cell culture medium in which cells present in the blood are disrupted and the insoluble remnants of the lysated cells are removed. Further, the invention provides a method for the preparation of a cell culture medium for culturing human cells, according to the invention.

Abstract: The present invention concerns the use of a population of cells comprising: (a) neural precursor cells committed to an oligodendroglial fate; (b) uncommitted neural precursor cells (c) differentiated oligodendrocytes; or (d) a combination of any one of (a) to (c) for the treatment of CNS autoimmune diseases, or for the preparation of a pharmaceutical composition for treating CNS autoimmune diseases, the population of cells being derived from human pluripotent stem cells. The invention also provides methods for obtaining such populations of cells, namely, neural precursor cells committed to an oligodendroglial fate as well as differentiated oligodendrocytes which then can be used in the treatment of CNS autoimmune diseases. A preferred autoimmune disease in the context of the present invention is multiple sclerosis where the population of cells is administered to the CNS for local treatment of the disease.

Abstract: In one embodiment, provided herein are cells, e.g., T cells expressing receptors that that cause a cell expressing the receptors to home to specific anatomical regions, e.g., the B cell zone of lymph nodes, the gastrointestinal tract, or the skin. Also provided herein is use of such cells, e.g., T lymphocytes, to treat diseases such as cancer.

Abstract: To produce and/or maintain naïve pluripotent stem cells capable of highly expressing genes important for maintaining an undifferentiated state, which could not be achieved by known methods for producing pluripotent stem cells. The present invention can produce naïve pluripotent stem cells capable of maintaining an undifferentiated state by introducing and allowing transient expression of six genes (Oct3/4, Klf4, c-Myc, Sox2, Nanog, and Klf2) among the so-called initializing factors, and further performing culturing in a medium containing LIF, an MEK inhibitor, a GSK3 inhibitor, a cAMP production promoter, a TGF-? inhibitor and a PKC inhibitor. Thus, the problem of the present invention can be solved.

Abstract: Described are methods for large-scale production of recombinant adenovirus 26, utilizing perfusion systems and infection at very high cell densities.

Abstract: A alcohol dehydrogenase of sequence ID no. 1 containing metal ions and a quinone cofactor, or in addition, a functional variant exhibiting a sequence identity of at least 80%, preferably at least 86%, especially preferred at least 89% and at least one redox cofactor for the transformation of at least one trichothecene exhibiting a hydroxyl group on the C-3 atom, as well as a method for the enzymatic transformation of trichothecenes and a trichothecene-transforming additive.

Abstract: In certain aspects, the present invention provides compositions and methods for modulating (promoting or inhibiting) growth of a tissue, such as bone, cartilage, muscle, fat, brown fat and/or neuronal tissue and for treating metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity, as well as disorders associated with any of the foregoing tissue.

Abstract: The present invention provides RNA-guided gene editing systems and methods of use thereof.

Abstract: The invention is directed to non-natural yeast able to secrete significant amounts of glucoamylase into a fermentation media. The glucoamylase can promote degradation of starch material generating glucose for fermentation to a desired bioproduct, such as ethanol. The glucoamylase can be provided in the form of a glucoamylase fusion protein having a S. cerevisiae mating factor alpha 2 (Sc MF?2) or repressible acid phosphatase (Sc PHO5) secretion signal.

Abstract: Provided is a modified xylanase. The polypeptide has xylanase activity and has an amino acid sequence with deletion of at least 12 consecutive amino acid residues at the C-terminus of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1 or an amino acid sequence having at least 90% identity with the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) polypeptide with a modified receptor binding domain (HC) having one or more amino acid mutations that modify the binding of the BoNT to the receptor. Specific mutations and combinations of mutations are also disclosed. Isolated modified HC, polypeptides comprising the modified HC, chimeric molecules, pharmaceutical compositions, and methods of making and using the same are also disclosed. Methods of identifying additional such modified receptor binding domains, are further disclosed.

Abstract: Aspects of the present compositions and methods relate to novel metalloproteases polynucleotides encoding the novel metalloprotease, compositions and methods for use thereof.

Abstract: The present invention provides sequence specific restriction enzymes for site-specific cleavage of RNA, as well as methods of their use.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein are directed to a new genetic perturbation and screening method that combines advantages of pooled perturbation with imaging assays for complex phenotypes. Specifically, the method may be used to screen pooled genomic perturbations to identify phenotypes and to identify perturbed genes at the single-cell level using optical barcodes. A major advantage offered by this approach is the ability to screen for any cellular phenotype that can be identified by high-resolution microscopy—including live-cell phenotypes, protein localization, or highly multiplexed expression profile and mRNA localization by RNA-FISH—in conjunction with a large array of genetic perturbations applied as a pool in a single test volume.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel microfluidic devices and methods that are useful for performing high-throughput screening assays and combinatorial chemistry. The invention provides for aqueous based emulsions containing uniquely labeled cells, enzymes, nucleic acids, etc., wherein the emulsions further comprise primers, labels, probes, and other reactants. An oil based carrier-fluid envelopes the emulsion library on a microfluidic device, such that a continuous channel provides for flow of the immiscible fluids, to accomplish pooling, coalescing, mixing, sorting, detection, etc., of the emulsion library.

Abstract: Methods, compositions, and kits for simultaneously generating RNA and DNA sequencing libraries are disclosed. In particular, the disclosed methods allow high-throughput amplification and sequencing of both RNA and DNA from a single sample source without the need to divide the sample to separate nucleic acids from each other. All of the preparation steps from harvesting nucleic acids from cells or tissue to preparing RNA and DNA sequencing libraries can be performed with the RNA and DNA pooled together. This technology streamlines generation of DNA and RNA sequencing data in combination and makes possible comprehensive genomic and transcriptomic profiling of a cell population concurrently.

Abstract: Provided are minimal hammerhead ribozymes and catalytic strands thereof. Aspects of the present disclosure include a catalytic strand of a minimal hammerhead ribozyme, the catalytic strand including a catalytic core region, a stem I-forming region, a stem II region, and a stem III-forming region. The catalytic strand hybridizes to a target strand via the stem I-forming region and the stem III-forming region. A nucleotide (e.g., an adenine, cytosine, or a natural or non-natural nucleotide base having hydrogen bond donor and acceptor functionalities at positions analogous to those of adenine or cytosine) present in a stem II loop base pairs with a nucleotide (e.g., uracil or cytosine) at position 1.7 of the target strand. Also provided are compositions that include the catalytic strands, and methods of using the catalytic strands, e.g., in a variety of different applications, as well as kits that find use in practicing embodiments of the methods.

Abstract: The present invention provides microRNA mimetic compounds that mimic the function or activity of miR-96, miR-182, and/or miR-183. The microRNA mimetic compounds of the invention comprise a first strand of about (22) to about (26) ribonucleotides comprising a mature miR-96, miR-182, or miR-183 sequence; and a second strand of about (20) to about (24) ribonucleotides comprising a sequence that is substantially complementary to the first strand and having at least one modified nucleotide, wherein the first strand has a 3? nucleotide overhang relative to the second strand. The invention additionally provides expression vectors comprising a polynucleotide(s) encoding one or more of miR-96, miR-182, and miR-183. The invention also provides methods of treating ophthalmological or otic conditions by administering the microRNA mimetic compounds of miR-96, miR-182, and/or miR-183 and/or an expression vector encoding at least one of miR-96, miR-182, and miR-183 to a subject in need thereof.

Abstract: The instant disclosure features single-stranded RNA molecules comprising one or more internal, non-nucleotide spacers. A non-nucleotide spacer covalently links nucleotide portions of the molecule. The single-stranded RNA molecules function as guide or antisense strands that are capable of inhibiting gene expression via an RNA interference mechanism and, thus, represent single-stranded RNAi agents. The single-stranded RNAi molecules can be used in methods for a variety of therapeutic, diagnostic, target validation, genomic discovery, genetic engineering, and pharmacogenomic applications.

Abstract: The present invention provides synthetic DNA aptamers that bind a target explosive to allow detection of that explosive. In various embodiments, the synthetic DNA aptamers may include one or more aptamers selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID 1-6. The various synthetic DNA aptamers are sensitive to different explosives. The synthetic DNA aptamers provide an inexpensive, in situ means for testing for explosive, which may be used for both soil and water samples. This testing may include an assay method using the synthetic DNA aptamers or a biosensor linked to the synthetic DNA aptamers.

Abstract: Provided herein are fluoropyrimidine-modified RNA aptamers capable of binding CCR5. The compositions and methods provided herein are, inter alia, useful for the delivery of antiviral drugs (e.g., siRNAs) and preventing HIV entry into a target cell.

Abstract: PVT1 exon 9 is overexpressed in aggressively tumorigenic prostate cancer cell lines and prostate tumor tissues. This exon provides a diagnostic tool for the detection and monitoring of aggressive prostate cancer. Several small interfering ribonucleic acids (siRNAs) are disclosed that are useful for treating prostate cancer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a multi-conjugate of small interfering RNA (siRNA) and a preparing method of the same, more precisely a multi-conjugate of siRNA prepared by direct binding of double stranded sense/antisense siRNA monomers or indirect covalent bonding mediated by a cross-linking agent or a polymer, and a preparing method of the same. The preparing method of a siRNA multi-conjugate of the present invention is characterized by simple and efficient reaction and thereby the prepared siRNA multi-conjugate of the present invention has high molecular weight multiple times the conventional siRNA, so that it has high negative charge density, suggesting that it has excellent ionic interaction with a cationic gene carrier and high gene delivery efficiency.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition for preventing or treating atopic dermatitis, the pharmaceutical composition including, as an active ingredient, X-shaped DNA (XL-DNA) formed by complementary binding of oligonucleotides having nucleotide sequences of SEQ ID NO: 1 to SEQ ID NO: 4. When the pharmaceutical composition is subcutaneously injected into an animal model of atopic dermatitis, effects of easing skin lesions, such as erythema, bleeding and edema, and the like, and ear edema, and reducing expression of immunoglobulin E (IgE) are exhibited. In this regard, the composition can be used as a pharmaceutical composition, a health food, or a cosmetic for atopic dermatitis.

Abstract: The invention is directed to one or more antisense polynucleotides and their use in pharmaceutical compositions in a strategy to induce exon skipping in the ?-sarcoglycan gene in patients suffering from Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy-2C (LGM-D2C) or in patients at risk of such a disease. The invention also provides methods of preventing or treating muscular dystrophy, e.g., LGMD2C, by exon skipping in the gamma sarcoglycan gene using antisense polynucleotides. Accordingly, in some aspects the invention provides an isolated antisense oligonucleotide, wherein the oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to an exon target region of a ?-sarcoglycan RNA. In another aspect, the invention provides a method of inducing exon-skipping of a gamma sarcoglycan RNA, comprising delivering an antisense oligonucleotide or a composition to a cell.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods of producing carotenoids and carotenoid derivatives.

Abstract: This disclosure describes a recombinant microbial cells and methods of making and using such recombinant microbial cells. Generally, the recombinant cells may be modified to exhibit increased biosynthesis of a TCA derivative compared to a wild-type control. In some embodiments, the TCA derivative can include 1,4-butanediol. In various embodiments, the microbial cell is a fungal cell or a bacterial cell. In some embodiments, the increased biosynthesis of the TCA derivative can include an increase in xylose dehydrogenase activity, xylonolactonase activity, xylonate dehydratase activity, or 2-keto-3-deoxyaldonic acid dehydratase activity.

Abstract: There is a need for delivery platforms with robust capacity that offer the possibility to deliver diverse protein-based therapeutics into specific cells. Described herein is a platform for delivering cargo polypeptides into cells, which is based on a recombinant molecule comprising: a cargo polypeptide, a diphtheria toxin enzymatic fragment (DTA), and a diphtheria toxin translocation fragment (DTB). The platform has been employed to deliver diverse cargo into cells, including those having low or high molecular weights. A hyper-stable cargo polypeptide has been delivered, as well as proteins of therapeutic significance (e.g, MecP2, SMN, FMRP, PNP, alpha-amylase, and RRSP). The platform is also useful for delivering genome-modifying proteins, such as the CRISPR protein, Cas9. Associated nucleic acids, pharmaceutical compositions, methods, uses, and kits are also described, including those of therapeutic significance aimed at treating diseases or disorders caused by enzyme or protein deficiency.

Abstract: The invention provides compositions and methods for engineering bacteria to produce fucosylated oligosaccharides, and the use thereof in the prevention or treatment of infection.

Abstract: The invention relates to recombinant expression of a taxadiene synthase enzyme and a geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase (GGPPS) enzyme in cells and the production of terpenoids.

Abstract: This invention intends to develop many DNA markers for a plant of the genus Fragaria and identify everbearing lines with high precision by using the many DNA markers. The marker associated with everbearing properties in a plant of the genus Fragaria comprises a continuous nucleic acid region sandwiched between the nucleotide sequence as shown in SEQ ID NO: 1 and the nucleotide sequence as shown in SEQ ID NO: 5 in the chromosome of the plant of the genus Fragaria.

Abstract: The invention relates to tonoplast proton/sugar antiporter proteins, more particularly tonoplast proton/saccharose antiporter proteins, the nucleotide sequences which encode them and uses thereof for producing transgenic plants with an increased saccharose concentration. The invention also includes methods for producing transgenic plants with an increased saccharose concentration, methods for increasing the saccharose concentration in plants, and for identifying plants which are suitable for creating a higher saccharose concentration.

Abstract: The invention provides a method to select an alfalfa plant with enhanced feed value and increased flexibility in management either to increase quality of forage provided or to enhance biomass available earlier.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for conferring pesticidal activity to bacteria, plants, plant cells, tissues and seeds are provided. Compositions comprising a coding sequence for pesticidal polypeptides are provided. The coding sequences can be used in DNA constructs or expression cassettes for transformation and expression in plants and bacteria. Compositions also comprise transformed bacteria, plants, plant cells, tissues, and seeds. In particular, isolated pesticidal nucleic acid molecules are provided. Additionally, amino acid sequences corresponding to the polynucleotides are encompassed. In particular, the present invention provides for nucleic acid molecules comprising nucleotide sequences encoding the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12, the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO:4, 5, or 6, as well as variants and fragments thereof.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of plant breeding. More specifically, the present invention includes a method of using haploid plants for genetic mapping of traits of interest such as disease resistance. Further, the invention includes a method for breeding corn plants containing quantitative trait loci (QTL) that are associated with resistance to Gray Leaf Spot, a fungal disease associated with Cercospora spp.

Abstract: A circular mRNA molecule possessing features resembling native mammalian mRNA demonstrates improved translation, while retaining the properties of an extremely long half-life inside cells. This circular mRNA is functional inside mammalian cells, being able to compete against native cellular mRNAs for the eukaryotic translation initiation machinery. The invention possesses additional RNA elements compared to a previous invention containing only an IRES element for successful in vitro or in vivo translation.

Abstract: A mammalian cell co-transfect with an expression plasmid comprising T7 promoter and an open reading frame (ORF) of target antigen, and a vT7 recombinant vaccinia virus expressing T7 polymerase. The entire antigen expressing cell is used as a carrier of the target antigen for preparing a vaccine or diagnostic agent, and screening monoclonal antibodies.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of (vector) vaccines, and especially to the novel EHV insertion site ORF70. The present invention further concerns related expression cassettes and vectors, which are suitable to express genes of interest, especially antigen encoding sequences. The viral vectors of the present invention are useful for producing an immunogenic composition or vaccine.

Abstract: The present invention relates to Equine Herpes Virus (EHV) vectors comprising at least one exogenous antigen encoding sequence relating to a pathogen infecting food producing animals, wherein said exogenous antigen encoding sequence is inserted into an insertion site, preferably ORF70, and said exogenous antigen encoding sequence is operably linked to a promoter sequence, preferably the promoter sequence comprising 4pgG600 (SEQ ID NO:1) or 4pMCP600 (SEQ ID NO:2) or the complementary nucleotide sequences thereof or a functional fragment or a functional derivative thereof or the complementary nucleotide sequences thereof. Furthermore, the present invention relates to methods for immunizing a food producing animal comprising administering to such food producing animal an immunogenic composition comprising embodiments of the present invention. Moreover, the present invention relates to methods for the treatment or prophylaxis of clinical signs caused by swine influenza virus in a food producing animal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of CAdV vector vaccines, and especially to promoters suitable to express target antigens from such vector vaccines. Disclosed and claimed are recombinant canine adenoviruses, methods of making them, uses for them (including in immunological, immunogenic, vaccine or therapeutic compositions, or, as a vector for cloning, replicating or expressing DNA and methods of using the compositions and vector), expression products from them, and uses for the expression products. Additionally, disclosed and claimed are truncated EHV4 promoters, expression cassettes containing the promoters, and recombinant viruses and plasmids containing the promoters or expression cassettes.

Abstract: The present invention relates to viral vectors that are capable of delivering a heterologous gene to the retina and in particular delivering RLBP1 to RPE and Müller cells of the retina. The invention also relates nucleic acids useful for producing viral vectors, compositions comprising the viral vectors and uses of the compositions and viral vectors. The invention also relates to methods of delivering and/or expressing a heterologous gene to the retina, improving the rate of dark adaption in a subject and treating RLBP1-associated retinal dystrophy.