Abstract: There is provided a method for covalent immobilization of at least one molecule comprising at least one amino group, said method comprising the sequential steps of: a) providing a surface comprising —SH groups, b) oxidizing the surface comprising —SH groups using redox reactions in the presence of noble metal ions, and c) contacting the surface with at least one molecule comprising at least one amino group to obtain a covalent binding of the at least one molecule to the surface, wherein said at least one amino group is involved in obtaining said covalent bond. The immobilized molecules are immobilized via stable covalent bonds. The method is more versatile since it can be performed as a one step method. All reaction steps are performed in aqueous solution. All steps can be performed at room temperature. The chemicals used are less expensive and less toxic compared to the prior art.

Abstract: A real-time method employing a portable peptide-containing potentiometric biosensor, can directly detect and/or quantify bacterial spores. Two peptides for specific recognition of B. subtilis and B. anthracis Sterne may be immobilized by a polysiloxane monolayer immobilization (PMI) technique. The sensors translate the biological recognition event into a potential change by detecting, for example, B. subtilis spores in a concentration range of 0.08-7.3×104 CFU/ml. The sensing method exhibited highly selective recognition properties towards Bacillus subtilis spores over other kinds of spores. The selectivity coefficients of the sensors for other kinds of spores are in the range of 0-1.0×10?5. The biosensor method not only has the specificity to distinguish Bacillus subtilis spores in a mixture of B. subtilis and B. thuringiensis (thur.) Kurstaki spores, but also can discriminate between live and dead B. subtilis spores. Furthermore, the sensing method can distinguish a Bacillus subtilis 1A700 from other B.

Abstract: A particle is disclosed. The particle comprising: (i) at least one inner core which comprises a solid matrix of nutrients for microorganism growth; (ii) an inner membrane being fabricated from a water-soluble polymer, the inner membrane surrounding the inner core and a population of dried microorganisms; and (iii) an outer porous membrane surrounding the inner membrane, the outer porous membrane being insoluble in water. Methods of generating same, propagating microorganisms within and uses of same are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition and method for handling tissue samples for analysis. In particular the present invention relates to a composition and method for orientating tissue for histological and/or pathological laboratory analysis.

Abstract: This invention describes a device consisting of a micro channel plate, filter, and porous holder for filter, which is substituted by a pure agar block during method performance, and supportive structural elements. The device is intended for rapid detection and/or identification of microorganisms. Microorganisms are trapped by filtration in long (diameter/length=1/10-1/100), cylindrical, parallel, micro-channels that are open from both sides and attached to a filter from one side. A micro channel plate houses a multiplicity of micro channels (possible diameter of each channel=1-30 ?m, length 100-1000 ?m, and number on centimeter2=100,000-1,000,000). The micro channel plate with cells trapped on the surface of the filter is attached to an agar block impregnated by artificial substrate(s) so that the molecules of the artificial substrates will fill all micro channels. Trapped cells produce colored or fluorescent molecules from artificial substrates.

Abstract: Specific applications of particles and particle agglomerates with semiconductor surfaces are provided. The particles and particle agglomerates display a high affinity for viral particles, and may be used therapeutically and/or prophylactically to treat or prevent viral infections. The particles and particle agglomerates may also be used to remove viral particles from a surface or fluid, e.g., as an absorbent in a filter, applied to surfaces to render them virostatic, and as tool to handle viral particles, e.g., for research, diagnostic, or decontamination purposes.

Abstract: The invention relates to a peptide derived from HIV-1 gp120 which forms insoluble aggregates when introduced into an aqueous solution and its use for enhancing viral infection of cells. In addition, the invention comprises methods for enhancing viral infection of cells, for concentrating a virus and for separating a virus from a fluid.

Abstract: The invention concerns the field of detecting and quantifying misfolded proteins/peptides. In particular the detection and quantification of misfolded proteins/peptides in body fluids, on cell surfaces of humans and mammals, the detection of misfolded proteins/peptides in reagents to be tested for scientific research and/or diagnostic use and in pharmaceutical medication or their additives and it concerns as well the removal of misfolded proteins/peptides from reagents to be tested for scientific research and/or for diagnostic purposes and from pharmaceutical medication or their additives.

Abstract: The present invention provides synthetic cell platforms. The synthetic cell platforms can be used for culturing cells in vitro. The synthetic cell platforms can also be implanted together with bound cells into an individual. The present invention provides methods of using the platforms to provide cells or progeny of such cells for use in various applications, including clinical applications; and methods of use of the platforms to introduce cells into an individual.

Abstract: By using engineered sequence specific DNA nuclease (“SSDN”), the composition, reagent kit and method of the present invention can cut and release a DNA sequence of interest 1×104-1×107-base pairs long from a source DNA as large as the whole genome. The SSDN further includes an affinity tag or is bound to a solid support that facilitates the isolation of the DNA sequence of interest. The SSDN can include a RecA and Ref combination, a transcription activator like effector nuclease, or a sequence specific chemical nuclease. When applied to genomic sequencing, specific region(s) of interest in the genome can be cut and isolated. Because the irrelevant part of the genome is removed from the sequencing reaction, the speed, cost, and accuracy of genomic sequencing can be improved.

Abstract: A surface supporting growth of cells in culture, the surface prepare to provide hydrophilic moieties exposed thereon for enhancing the attachment of biological materials. The surface contains the hydrophilic moiety as part of an amphipathic molecule also having a hydrophobic region that is anchored or embedded within a polymer substrate, and oriented such that the hydrophilic moieties are exposed on the outer surface of the substrate. In one embodiment the surface is customized to provide qualitative and quantitative moieties to enhance particular cell growth. In one embodiment, the surface is provided on a culture apparatus such as a dish or plate.

Abstract: Crosslinking reagents and methods for using the same for analysis of protein-protein interactions, are provided. The crosslinking reagents include a trifunctional scaffold that links two protein linking groups to each other and branches to link an affinity tag, where the protein linking groups can be fragmented from the scaffold. The distance between the two protein linking groups can be selected to crosslink two proteins of a protein complex via accessible amino acid residues. Also provided are crosslinked polypeptide compounds and kits that include crosslinking reagents. These reagents and methods find use in a variety of applications in which crosslinking of proteins in desired.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods for the preparation and use of labeled AChE and labeled AChE inhibitory conjugate compositions for detecting accumulation of toxic materials such as organophosphates, insecticides, and other nerve agents. Also disclosed are methods for the use of labeled AChE and labeled AChE inhibitory conjugate compositions in a variety of areas, including the detecting of toxic materials in biological samples, in the area of food and water analysis, in environmental monitoring, and in industrial settings.

Abstract: A microfluidic device for glycopeptide analysis includes an enrichment column capable of binding carbohydrates; a trapping column capable of binding peptides, wherein the trapping column is configured to be connected downstream of the enrichment column; a separation column, wherein the separation column is configured to be connected downstream of the trapping column; and a plurality of ports configured to work with a switching device to form a plurality of flow paths, wherein one of the plurality of flow paths allows the trapping column to be in fluid communication with the separation column. A method for glycopeptide analysis using a microfluidic device comprising a trapping column and a separation column, the method includes applying a sample of peptides to the microfluidic device; trapping the peptides on the trapping column; eluting the peptides from the trapping column into the separation column; and separating the peptides on the separation column.

Abstract: A streptokinase immobilized on a surface, in particular an immobilized plasmin-resistant streptokinase, and compositions, methods and kits of utilizing same for preparing plasmin are provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to xylanases and to polynucleotides encoding the xylanases. In addition, methods of designing new xylanases and methods of use thereof are also provided. The xylanases have increased activity and stability at increased pH and temperature.

Abstract: Method for manufacturing a tissue-engineered construct, such as a heart valve, comprising the steps of providing a-cell-seeded scaffold in a bioreactor chamber which bioreactor chamber is divided by the cell-seeded scaffold into a first compartment and a second compartment, subjecting the cell-seeded scaffold to a flow of nutrient medium within the bioreactor chamber for developing the cell-seeded scaffold to a tissue structure and next to the tissue construct, applying a dynamic pressure difference to the developing tissue structure by the flow of nutrient medium to induce dynamic strain on the tissue structure.

Abstract: Certain embodiments are directed to methods of enhancing the petroleum degrading abilities of bacteria and the resulting bacterial composition. In certain aspects the bacteria are selected for degradation of a petroleum having a particular composition profile and/or for environmental robustness.

Abstract: Methods and systems for the isomerization and fermentation of xylose and hexose sugars using an immobilized enzyme system capable of sustaining two different pH microenvironments in a single vessel are disclosed. Bilayer particles are dispersed in a mixture comprising an ionic borate source and xylose. The bilayer particles have a first region with a first enzymatic activity comprising xylose isomerase and a pH of 6 or above, and a second region having a second enzymatic activity at an acidic pH.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to compositions and methods for treating an animal diagnosed with Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM).

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for preparing an instant enzyme formulation; instant enzyme formulations obtainable by this process and feedstuff compositions prepared using instant enzyme formulations of the invention.

Abstract: A packet of an enzyme and/or enzyme producing bacteria is contained within the core of a roll of toilet tissue or similar paper product wound on a core. The packet has a cover that dissolves or disintegrates on contact with water and disperses its contents into the aqueous waste stream. The packet may contain a mixture of bacterial cultures that produce enzymes to attack the greasy or fatty components of the waste stream. An additional article such as a sample of a liquid or creme personal care product may also be contained within the tissue paper core.

Abstract: The invention is directed to enzyme preparations which are obtainable by providing enzyme immobilizates which comprise enzymes or microorganisms comprising enzymes immobilized on an inert support with a polyethersilicone coating obtained by hydrosilylation, to a process for preparing such enzyme preparations and to the use of enzyme preparations as an industrial biocatalyst.

Abstract: A method of making a composite structure exhibiting the ability to degrade chemical or biological agents upon contact comprising a substrate to be protected from the deleterious effects of chemical or biological agents possessing surface groups capable of deactivating materials having the ability to degrade chemical or biological agents, a buffer film, coated onto the substrate, that blocks the ability of the substrate surface groups to deactivate the materials having the ability to degrade chemical or biological agents, and a protective film, coated onto the buffer film, containing materials having the ability to degrade chemical or biological agents encapsulated in or comprising the outer surface of the protective film.

Abstract: A method and a composition for delivery of a biomaterial to an animal cell or a tissue, the composition includes (a) a biomaterial; (b) a biodegradable cross-linker portion having a hydrolyzable bond, wherein the biodegradable cross-linker portion is covalently bound to the biomaterial; and (c) a substrate, wherein the substrate is covalently bound to the biodegradable cross-linker portion, provided that the biodegradable cross-linker is adapted to hydrolyze by breaking the hydrolyzable bond and thereby release and deliver the biomaterial. A process of making the composition is also provided.

Abstract: A method for fabricating a micro-organ device comprises providing a microscale support having one or more microfluidic channels and one or more micro-chambers for housing a micro-organ and printing a micro-organ on the microscale support using a cell suspension in a syringe controlled by a computer-aided tissue engineering system, wherein the cell suspension comprises cells suspended in a solution containing a material that functions as a three-dimensional scaffold. The printing is performed with the computer-aided tissue engineering system according to a particular pattern. The micro-organ device comprises at least one micro-chamber each housing a micro-organ; and at least one microfluidic channel connected to the micro-chamber, wherein the micro-organ comprises cells arranged in a configuration that includes microscale spacing between portions of the cells to facilitate diffusion exchange between the cells and a medium supplied from the at least one microfluidic channel.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices are described for multiple single-cell capturing and processing utilizing microfluidics. Tools and techniques are provided for capturing, partitioning, and/or manipulating individual cells from a larger population of cells along with generating genetic information and/or reactions related to each individual cell. Different capture configurations may be utilized to capture individual cells and then processing each individual cell in a multi-chamber reaction configuration. Some embodiments may provide for specific target amplification, whole genome amplification, whole transcriptome amplification, real-time PCR preparation, copy number variation, preamplification, mRNA sequencing, and/or haplotyping of the multiple individual cells that have been partitioned from the larger population of cells. Some embodiments may provide for other applications. Some embodiments may be configured for imaging the individual cells or associated reaction products as part of the processing.

Abstract: Provided are: a capsule for non-ferrous metal collection that can collect a non-ferrous metal; and a method for collecting a non-ferrous metal using same. The capsule for non-ferrous metal collection comprises capsule contents and a covering section covering the capsule contents, and collects a non-ferrous metal within the capsule for non-ferrous metal collection by means of the capsule for non-ferrous metal collection being immersed in a solution containing a non-ferrous metal.

Abstract: A method for encapsulation of microparticles (e.g., fungal conidia), involving (i) suspending microparticles in an aqueous solution containing at least one sugar to form an aqueous suspension wherein the concentration of said sugar is about 0.1 to 10% w/v, and (ii) spray drying said aqueous suspension with a spray dryer, wherein the inlet temperature of said spray dryer is about 40° C. to about 140° C. and the outlet temperature of said spray dryer is about 20° C. to about 80° C.

Abstract: A method that modifies surface properties of a substrate by manipulating the immobilized biomolecules in mild biological condition. The manipulation comprised steps of: providing a biomolecule combined with at least one ssDNA combined with a first protein through an affinity binding tag; adding a second ssDNA conjugated with a second protein with a concentration greater than that of the first protein; and replacing the first protein on the ssDNA with the second protein through chemical competitive principle. The invention may comprise the steps with proper design of biotinylated DNA probes, the functionalized ssDNA nanotemplates can be recovered to its unbound state through a thermodynamic principle.

Abstract: Technologies for increasing sample throughput by predicting the end point response time of a sensor for the analysis of an analyte in a sample are disclosed. In one aspect, a system includes a sensor that generates data signals associated with the measurement of an analyte within the sample. A processor records appropriate data points corresponding to the signals, converts them to a logarithmic function of time scale, and plots the converted data points. The processor then determines a curve that fits the plotted data points and determines a curve fitting equation for the curve. Once the equation is determined, the processor extrapolates an end point response of the sensor using the equation. A value, such as analyte concentration, is then calculated using the extrapolated end point response.

Abstract: Provided is a method of separating microorganisms from a sample including contacting the sample containing microorganisms with an inorganic on exchange material such that the sample reacts with the inorganic on exchange material, and contacting the reacted sample with a means for capturing microorganisms.

Abstract: A sustained-release formulation is provided comprising a solid dispersion composition comprising a tricyclic compound or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof in a mixture comprising a water-soluble polymer and a water-insoluble polymer, and an excipient.

Abstract: Disclosed are a metal nanoparticle onto which a peptide substrate specifically degraded by protease and fluorophore are chemically modified for selectively imaging protease expressed in cell and in tissue in a human body, and the use thereof. Also, a quantitative analysis method of protease using the metal nanoparticle, a cell imaging method and a drug screening method of inhibiting a protease overexpression are provided. In detail, the present invention is directed to a metal nanoparticle having a peptide substrate and fluorophore coupled thereto, the peptide substrate and the fluorophore being specifically degraded by due to a protease activated in various ways in cell and in a human body to exhibit fluorescence. Hence, the metal nanoparticle can be used to rapidly screen activation and inhibition of the protease in the imaging manner.

Abstract: Devices, methods, and systems are described for controlling pathogenic condition or disease in a subject. Devices are described that include one or more bone cages. The device including one or more bone cages can be configured to include one or more immunogens and one or more adjuvants. The device including one or more bone cages can be configured to, and/or structured to at least partially or completely surround one or more cells or tissues that produce one or more immunogens and/or one or more adjuvants. The device is useful in a method for treating a pathogenic condition or disease in the subject.

Abstract: This document provides methods and materials for detecting genetic and/or epigenetic elements. For example, methods and materials for detecting the presence or absence of target nucleic acid containing a genetic or epigenetic element, methods and materials for detecting the amount of target nucleic acid containing a genetic or epigenetic element within a sample, kits for detecting the presence or absence of target nucleic acid containing a genetic or epigenetic element, kits for detecting the amount of target nucleic acid containing a genetic or epigenetic element present within a sample, and methods for making such kits are provided.

Abstract: Devices, methods, and systems are described for controlling pathogenic condition or disease in a subject. Devices are described that include one or more bone cages. The device including one or more bone cages can be configured to include one or more immunogens and one or more adjuvants. The device including one or more bone cages can be configured to, and/or structured to at least partially or completely surround one or more cells or tissues that produce one or more immunogens and/or one or more adjuvants. The device is useful in a method for treating a pathogenic condition or disease in the subject.

Abstract: A device for the treatment of waste material in a waste water collection system includes an inner core and an outer portion partially surrounding the inner core such that at least one surface of the inner core is exposed. The inner core has a greater water solubility than the outer portion.

Abstract: A method for forming a three-dimensional cell arrangement (1) of biological cells is disclosed, including the steps of preparation of the cell arrangement (1) on a flexible substrate (10) and deformation of the substrate (10), wherein the deformation of the substrate (10) is brought about by an attractive force exerted by the cells (2) on the substrate (10). A substrate (10), is also disclosed, made from a flexible material and including a substrate surface (11) for adhesion of a cell arrangement (1) of biological cells, wherein the substrate surface (11) has a number of force attachment points arranged to exert an attraction force which may be transmitted from the cells to the substrate (10) and the substrate (10) has a flexibility such that the substrate (10) is deformable with the action of the attraction force.

Abstract: A process for capturing or concentrating microorganisms for detection or assay comprises (a) providing a concentration agent that comprises diatomaceous earth bearing, on at least a portion of its surface, a surface treatment comprising a surface modifier comprising titanium dioxide, fine-nanoscale gold or platinum, or a combination thereof; (b) providing a sample comprising at least one microorganism strain; and (c) contacting the concentration agent with the sample such that at least a portion of the at least one microorganism strain is bound to or captured by the concentration agent.

Abstract: The present invention provides assays and devices for detection of substances in liquid samples. The assays and devices utilize passive diffusion between a porous material and a porous membrane containing a specific binding pair member to enable detection of the substance of interest.

Abstract: An apparatus and method that may be used for collecting target cells or tissue and preparing a cell block are disclosed.

Abstract: In accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure, a kit is described. The kit includes primed living cells joined to and at least partially within a three-dimensional hydrogel structure and an isolated polypeptide having the carboxy-terminal amino acid sequence of an alpha Connexin, or a conservative variant thereof, wherein the polypeptide does not include the full length alpha Connexin protein.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods for inactivating antibiotics in the environment. The invention further relates to the use of a laccase, a lipase or a cellulase for inactivation of antibiotics. It also relates to compositions to decontaminate the polluted environment and to prevent the pollution of the environment by inactivating antibiotics from waste and wastewater effluents before they reach the environment.

Abstract: A microfabricated sheath flow structure for producing a sheath flow includes a primary sheath flow channel for conveying a sheath fluid, a sample inlet for injecting a sample into the sheath fluid in the primary sheath flow channel, a primary focusing region for focusing the sample within the sheath fluid and a secondary focusing region for providing additional focusing of the sample within the sheath fluid. The secondary focusing region may be formed by a flow channel intersecting the primary sheath flow channel to inject additional sheath fluid into the primary sheath flow channel from a selected direction. A sheath flow system may comprise a plurality of sheath flow structures operating in parallel on a microfluidic chip.

Abstract: Devices for the microencapsulation of cells include a first chamber for containing a cell-solution suspension. A plate covers one end of the first chamber. The plate has a plurality of apertures. A second chamber is provided for receiving encapsulated cells. The second chamber is separated from the first chamber by the plate. Cells from the first chamber are encapsulated by passing through the apertures in the plate and into the second chamber when pressure is applied to the cell-solution suspension.

Abstract: Synthetic surfaces capable of supporting culture of undifferentiated human embryonic stem cells in a chemically defined medium include a swellable (meth)acrylate layer and a peptide conjugated to the swellable (meth)acrylate layer. The swellable (meth)acrylate layer may be formed by polymerizing monomers in a composition that includes hydroxyethyl methacrylate, 2-carboxyehylacrylate, and tetra(ethylene glycol)dimethacrylate. The conjugated peptide may include an amino acid sequence of XaanProGlnValThrArgGlyAspValPheThrMetPro, where n is an integer from 0 to 3 and where Xaa is any amino acid. Further, disclosed herein is a swellable (meth)acrylate synthetic surface which can be sterilized by gamma irradiation.

Abstract: The present invention provides markers of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) and use of those markers and reagents that bind thereto to detect EPC cells or diagnose, prognose, treat or prevent EPC-associated conditions.

Abstract: A method for treating an organic and/or inorganic substrate utilizing a granular material made of a solid foam as support for an active component, for example a biocatalyst such as a microorganism or an enzyme. The solid foam has a continuous phase in which magnetizable particles are embedded, such that the support with the biologically active component immobilized thereon can be separated from a mixture with a magnetic separation device.

Abstract: Biomass (e.g., plant biomass, animal biomass, and municipal waste biomass) is processed to produce useful products, such as fuels. For example, systems can use feedstock materials, such as cellulosic and/or lignocellulosic materials, to produce ethanol and/or butanol, e.g., by fermentation.