Abstract: The present disclosure relates to the identification of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the Gamma genomic block in the central region of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) that can be used for matching transplant donors and recipients and determining disease susceptibility.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of designing an optimized gene which comprises altering a nucleotide sequence of a target protein gene, so that only preferential codons with high frequency of use in human cells are selected and a GC content of not less than 60% is achieved. A gene design method which involves the feature “only preferential codons with high frequency of use are selected and a GC content of not less than 60% is achieved” can be established as a general rule for preparing proteins with high expression level, in order to obtain chemically synthesized genes for proteins capable of high-level expression in eukaryotes.

Abstract: This disclosure provides a number of sequences involved in nitrogen utilization, methods of using such sequences, tobacco plants carrying modifications to such sequences, tobacco plants transgenic for such sequences, and tobacco products made from such plants.

Abstract: Methods for processing polynucleotide-containing biological samples, and materials for capturing polynucleotide molecules such as RNA and/or DNA from such samples. The RNA and/or DNA is captured by polyamindoamine (PAMAM (Generation 0)) bound to a surface, such as the surface of magnetic particles. The methods and materials have high efficiency of binding RNA and of DNA, and of release, and thereby permit quantitative determinations.

Abstract: This invention relates to gene expression regulatory sequences, specifically transcription terminator sequences. Plant transcription terminator sequences are described herein. Methods for identifying novel plant transcription terminator sequences that can terminate transcription in one orientation or in a bidirectional manner and methods of using these terminator sequences to generate transgenic plants are described herein.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are nucleic acid molecules comprising one or more nucleic acid sequences that encode a modified consensus MUC16 antigen. Vectors, compositions, and vaccines comprising one or more nucleic acid sequences that encode a modified consensus MUC16 antigen are disclosed. Methods of treating a subject with a MUC16-expressing tumor and methods of preventing a MUC16-expressing tumor are disclosed. Modified consensus MUC16 antigen is disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention can provide a nucleic acid medicine which has a higher effect and a more prolonged effect of inhibiting the expression of ?-synudein can be provided. Disclosed is the oligonucleotide or a pharmacologically acceptable salt thereof, the oligonucleotide containing at least one nucleoside structure represented by Formula (I): (where each of Base and A are defined substituent or structure), can bind to an ?-synudein gene, has activity for inhibiting expression of the ?-synudein gene, and is complementary to the ?-synudein gene, and the oligonucleotide has a length of twelve to twenty bases.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides, in some aspects, methods and compositions for producing nucleic acid nanostructures having little to no kinetic barriers to self-assembly.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to novel huntingtin targets. Novel oligonucleotides for the treatment of Huntington's disease are also provided.

Abstract: Described herein are recombinant chimeric proteins comprising a double stranded RNA (dsRNA) binding domain and a cancer-cell targeting domain for targeting of dsRNA to cancer cells. Methods of use of the described chimeric proteins are also provided herein.

Abstract: The present invention directs to a method for treating a smooth muscle cell proliferative disease by using a recombinant expression vector comprising a polynucleotide encoding FGF12, or by using FGF12 protein or a fragment thereof; and a method for detecting a marker for diagnosis of smooth muscle cell proliferative disease, comprising the measurement of FGF12 expression level.

Abstract: Methods for marking cellulosic products, including cellulosic fibers such as lyocell and cellulosic films, including methods for marking such products with a detectable nucleic acid marker to identify and validate the origin or authenticity of the products or items manufactured using such products. Detectably-marked cellulosic products marked with nucleic acid markers for authentication, validation and tracking are also provided.

Abstract: Chimeric protein constructs including a herpesvirus glycoprotein D (gD) and a heterologous polypeptide that interact with herpes virus entry mediator (HVEM) and enhance and enhance an immune response against the heterologous polypeptide and methods for their use are provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel primers and sloppy molecular beacon and molecular beacon probes for amplifying segments from different genes in Mycobacterium tuberculosis for identifying the presence of M.tb DNA and/or resistance to anti-tuberculosis drugs.

Abstract: A method and a kit for detecting mycobacterium are provided. The method includes steps of: providing a sample; providing a pair of primers, which is selected from a group consisting of a sequence having about 45% to 100% similar to SEQ ID NO. 1, a sequence having about 60% to 100% similar to SEQ ID NO. 2, a sequence complementary thereof; performing a polymerase chain reaction by using the set of primers and the sample to obtain a product; and analyzing the product to detect the presence of the mycobacterium.

Abstract: The invention provides a lysis reagent for lysing red blood cells, thereby releasing a target, such as RNA from a parasitic organism, in a form suitable for analysis. The reagent includes at least ammonium chloride and an anionic detergent, and may include an anti-coagulant. The reagent serves to lyse red blood cells, protect the released target from degradation in the lysate, and is compatible with subsequent steps for analysis of the target such as target capture, amplification, detection, or sequencing.

Abstract: A group of peptides is provided which activate or inhibit toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and may be used to modulate inflammatory signaling and host defense pathways. The peptides were derived in silico and tested in vitro in cell cultures. These peptides may be used in the preparation of immunomodulatory compositions such as vaccine adjuvants and in pharmaceutical compositions for immunomodulation of the innate immune system such as vaccine adjuvants. The peptides may also be used in the preparation of TLR4 activators, TLR4 inhibitors and MD2 labels, e.g., for research purposes.

Abstract: A filtration column assembly is provided for use in combination with a disposable cartridge of a diagnostic assay system. The filtration column assembly includes a column matrix material configured to filter a fluid sample, a tubular column configured to sealably engage a filtration chamber of the disposable cartridge and a cap configured to be inserted into an end of the tubular column and define a passageway to direct the sample fluid from the second end of the tubular column into a collection cavity disposed adjacent the filtration chamber. The tubular column defines (i) a column cavity for receiving the column matrix material, (ii) a first end having an opening for receiving the fluid sample and configured to retain the column matrix material, and (iii) a second end, receiving the fluid directing cap, and having an opening to dispense a filtered fluid sample from the column cavity.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions for RNA interference and methods of use thereof. In particular, the invention provides small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) having modification that enhance the stability of the siRNA without a concomitant loss in the ability of the siRNA to participate in RNA interference (RNAi). The invention also provides siRNAs having modification that increase targeting efficiency. Modifications include chemical crosslinking between the two complementary strands of an siRNA and chemical modification of a 3? terminus of a strand of an siRNA. Preferred modifications are internal modifications, for example, sugar modification, nucleobase modification and/or backbone modifications. Such modifications are also useful, e.g., to improve uptake of the siRNA by a cell. Functional and genomic and proteomic methods are featured. Therapeutic methods are also featured.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods to detect prostate cancer by detecting the RNA encoded by PCA3. The disclosure provides a method for determining a predisposition, or presence of prostate cancer comprising: (a) contacting a sample with at least one oligonucleotide that hybridizes to a PCA3 polynucleotide; (b) detecting an amount of PCA3 and second prostate-specific polynucleotides; and (c) comparing the amount of PCA3 polynucleotide that hybridizes to the oligonucleotide to a predetermined cut off value, and determining the presence or absence of prostate cancer. Diagnostic kits are provided for detecting prostate cancer or the risk of developing same comprising: (a) at least one container means containing at least one oligonucleotide probe or primer that hybridizes to PCA3 (b) at least one oligonucleotide probe or primer that hybridizes with a second prostate specific nucleic acid; and (c) reagents for detecting PCA3 and the second prostate specific nucleic acid.

Abstract: Heat assisted magnetic recording (HAMR) devices that includes a near field transducer, the near field transducer including alloys of a first element selected from: platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), rhodium (Rh), iridium (Ir), ruthenium (Ru), and osmium (Os); and a second element selected from; hafnium (Hf), niobium (Nb), tantalum (Ta), titanium (Ti), vanadium (V), and zirconium (Zr).

Abstract: Described herein are phenylsulfonamido-benzofuran derivatives, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions, methods, uses, and kits involving compounds of Formulae (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), or (VI) for treating and/or preventing proliferative diseases (e.g. cancers, inflammatory diseases, and autoimmune diseases) in a subject. The compounds and pharmaceutical compositions as described herein inhibit at least one protein of the BCL-2 family in a biological sample or subject to treat and/or prevent a proliferative disease. In certain embodiments, compounds described herein are selective inhibitors of MCL-1, a BCL-2 family member protein.

Abstract: The present invention provides peptides that specifically bind to maternal autoantibodies that are generated in the mother or potential mother against one or more endogenous polypeptide antigens selected from lactate dehydrogenase A (LDH A), lactate dehydrogenase B (LDH B), stress-induced phosphoprotein 1 (STIP1), guanine deaminase (GDA), Y Box Binding Protein 1 (YBX1), collapsin response mediator protein 1 (CRMP1), and collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP2). The peptides described herein are useful for determining a risk of an offspring for developing an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by detecting the presence of maternal autoantibodies in a biological sample of the mother or potential mother. The peptides or mimotopes thereof can also be administered to the mother or potential mother to block the binding between maternal autoantibodies and their antigens, thereby neutralizing the maternal autoantibodies.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a medicament for treating cancer or infectious disease, the medicament comprising an immune checkpoint blockade and an adjuvant composition. More specifically, the present invention relates to a medicament for cancer or infectious diseases, wherein an anti-PD-1 antibody or an anti-PD-L1 antibody is used in combination with a nucleic acid adjuvant composed of a double-stranded RNA and a single-stranded ODN.

Abstract: The invention provides improved non-human vertebrates and non-vertebrate cells capable of expressing antibodies comprising human variable region sequences. The present invention is directed to the provision of long HCDR3s from non-human vertebrates and cells. The present invention is also directed to the provision of novel V, D and J pairings in immunoglobulin heavy and light chain loci. Novel, biased antibody diversities and potentially expanded diversities are provided. The invention also provides for novel and potentially expanded diversity or diversity that is biased towards variable gene usage common to antibodies useful for treating and/or preventing certain diseases or conditions, such as infectious diseases. The invention also provides methods of generating antibodies using such vertebrates, as well as the antibodies per se, therapeutic compositions thereof and uses.

Abstract: The invention is directed to compositions and methods for rapidly detecting, amplifying, and quantitating one or more pathogen-specific nucleic acids in a biological sample, and in particular, samples obtained from patients with sepsis. The invention also provides diagnostic kits containing specific amplification primers, and labeled detection probes that specifically bind to the amplification products obtained therefrom. The invention is also directed to detecting the quantity or ratio of genomic sequences and mRNA sequences of an individual suspected of being infected with an infectious agent over time to assess the progress of the infection over time. Also disclosed are compositions and methods for the isolation and characterization of nucleic acids that are specific to one or more pathogens, such as, for example, Influenza virus, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Plasmodium, and/or HIV from a wide variety of samples including those of biological, environmental, clinical and/or veterinary origin.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to coumarin-based compounds that can be used for the labeling of biological molecules, as well as related synthetic and testing methods. The coumarin-based compounds typically survive conditions necessary for automated synthesis of nucleic acids without undergoing any substantial degree of degradation or alteration.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a computerized method may comprise: determining, by an adaptive cataclysm controller operating on one or more processors, that the population of candidate solutions has converged during a run of the genetic algorithm; determining, by the adaptive cataclysm controller operating on the one or more processors, a cause for convergence of the population based, at least in part, on an analysis of the run of the genetic algorithm; selecting, by the adaptive cataclysm controller operating on the one or more processors, a first cataclysm strategy of a plurality of different cataclysm strategies based, at least in part, on one of the cause for the convergence and a history of the run of the genetic algorithm; and simulating, by the adaptive cataclysm controller operating on the one or more processors, a cataclysm based on the first cataclysm strategy.

Abstract: The invention provides a nucleotide or nucleoside having a base attached to a detectable label via a cleavable linker, characterised in that the cleavable linker contains a moiety selected from the group comprising: Formula (I) (wherein X is selected from the group comprising O, S, NH and NQ wherein Q is a C1-10 substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group, Y is selected from the group comprising O, S, NH and N(allyl), T is hydrogen or a C1-10 substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group and * indicates where the moiety is connected to the remainder of the nucleotide or nucleoside).

Abstract: The invention provides methods for isolating DNA from a blood sample collected into tubes containing a rapid clot activator, which involves the use of a lysis buffer comprising an alcohol.

Abstract: Vaccine vectors capable of eliciting an immune response to enteric bacteria and methods of using the same are provided. The vaccine vectors include a polynucleotide encoding a PAL polypeptide. The PAL polypeptide may be expressed on the surface of the vaccine vector. The vaccine vector may also include a second polypeptide encoding an immunostimulatory polypeptide such as a CD154 polypeptide or an HMGB1 polypeptide.

Abstract: The present disclosure pertains to the recognition that immune responses mediated by CpG oligonucleotides can be affected by the stereochemistry of modified internucleotidic linkages such as phosphorothioates. In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to chirally controlled CpG oligonucleotide compositions comprising CpG oligonucleotides comprising multiple modified internucleotidic linkages such as phosphorothioate linkages, wherein the oligonucleotides comprise one or more CpG region motifs having defined stereochemistry patterns of chiral internucleotidic linkages. In some embodiments, CpG oligonucleotides comprising one or more CpG region motifs are capable of agonizing an immune response. In some embodiments, CpG oligonucleotides comprising one or more CpG region motifs are antagonistic. Methods for making and using chirally controlled CpG oligonucleotide compositions are also described.

Abstract: Double stranded mRNA (ds mRNA), e.g., produced in vitro, where one strand encodes a protein of interest and the other strand is hydrogen bonded to at least a portion of the coding region for the protein, as well as methods of making and using the ds mRNA, are provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to antisense oligonucleotides that modulate the expression of and/or function of Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF2), in particular, by targeting natural antisense polynucleotides of Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF2). The invention also relates to the identification of these antisense oligonucleotides and their use in treating diseases and disorders associated with the expression of NRF2.

Abstract: The present invention provides an isolated nucleic acid molecule comprising, or consisting of, the nucleic acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:1 or a nucleic acid sequence of at least 300 bp having at least 80% identity to said sequence of SEQ ID NO:1, wherein said isolated nucleic acid molecule specifically leads to the expression in rod photoreceptors of a gene when operatively linked to a nucleic acid sequence coding for said gene.

Abstract: The invention is a novel method of isolating long nucleic acids from samples suitable for nucleic acid sequencing. The method is especially suitable for isolating low-concentration nucleic acids, e.g., viral nucleic acids, from clinical samples.

Abstract: Provided is a method of assaying for an analyte, including combining a test sample having the analyte, with a calibration sample having at least two different aliquots of the analyte, each aliquot having a different known quantity of the analyte. The test sample and each aliquot are differentially labeled with one or more isobaric mass labels each with a mass spectrometrically distinct mass marker group, such that the test sample and each aliquot of the calibration sample can be distinguished by mass spectrometry. The method further includes determining by mass spectrometry the quantity of analyte in the test sample and in each aliquot, and calibrating the quantity of analyte in the test sample against known and determined quantities of analytes in the aliquots.

Abstract: The present invention provides a composition, a kit and the use thereof, as well as the method for detecting the cell proliferative abnormality in individuals or grading the disease degree in the individuals. The composition comprises nucleic acids for detecting the methylation level within at least one target region of a gene and the fragment thereof.

Abstract: Disclosed are dendritic anionic lipids which are compounds of Formula (I): wherein R and R1 are non-polar groups, L is a linking moiety, and Dm is a dendritic moiety of m generations, each as defined herein. These dendritic anionic lipids are useful for delivery and expression of m RNA and encoded protein, e.g., as a component of liposomal delivery vehicle, and accordingly can be useful for treating various diseases, disorders and conditions, such as those associated with deficiency of one or more proteins.

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 an immune modulator having a novel structure, and an immunologic adjuvant composition containing the same and, more specifically, to an modulator, which is a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) analog having reduced toxicity, and a use thereof. The immune modulator of the present invention exhibits immune enhancement effects by having excellent innate immunity and ability to induce an adaptive immune response to a specific pathogen, and is very safe by having low toxicity. In addition, a vaccine containing the immune modulator of the present invention contains both an immune modulator and an alum, thereby improving immune enhancement effects compared with when using only the immune modulator.

Abstract: Provided herein are compositions, systems, kits, and methods for treating nervous system injuries caused by trauma or neurodegeneration or aging in a subject by administering a CSPG or SOCS3 reduction peptide (CRP and SRP respectively), or a nucleic acid sequence encoding the CRP or SRP, wherein both the CRP and SRP comprise a cell membrane penetrating domain, and a lysosome targeting domain, and the CRP further comprises a chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan (CSPG) binding domain, and the SRP further comprises a suppressor of cytokine signaling-3 (SOCS3) binding domain.

Abstract: The non-linear content scheduling and encoding (recording) system provides a highly automated file-based video-on-demand (VOD) publishing workflow. The system includes content-provider scheduling and broadcast programming for encoding, editing, and distribution of video assets (e.g., episodes). The invention effectively scales VOD production and allows broadcasters to use the same schedule and sources as their traditional playout operation to quickly and efficiently produce VOD deliverables with all the correct metadata. The systems of the invention process content at significantly faster rates than traditional, real-time VOD generation. The systems provide program management and incorporate traffic system ad components within fully integrated VOD publishing. The systems enable automatic retrieval of sources for VOD generation from generic storage, video servers, non-linear editing systems, archiving systems, content delivery systems, data or video tapes, as well as from live video sources.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions for determining the presence and/or amount of pathogenic Leptospira in a test sample. In particular, substantially purified oligonucleotide primers and probes are described that can be used for qualitatively and quantitatively detecting pathogenic Leptospira nucleic acid in a test sample by amplification methods. The present invention also provides primers and probes for generating and detecting control nucleic acid sequences that provide a convenient method for assessing internal quality control of the Leptospira assay.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are recombinant viral vectors comprising a liver specific promotor in operable combination with a heterologous nucleic acid sequence encoding a protein, such as a clotting factor. Methods of treating a subject with a clotting disorder, such as hemophilia A or hemophilia B, are also provided.

Abstract: Methods for capturing a target nucleic acid from a sample by using a capture probe that binds nonspecifically to the target nucleic acid and binds specifically to an immobilized probe via a specific binding pair that has one member on the capture probe and one member on the immobilized probe are disclosed. Compositions that include a capture probe that binds nonspecifically to a target nucleic acid and specifically to an immobilized probe via binding of members of a specific binding pair in a solution phase of a reaction mixture are disclosed.

Abstract: The present teachings relate to the extraction of nucleic acid from solid materials. Provided are useful compositions, methods and kits for obtaining nucleic acids from a solid biological sample or an adhesive material having a biological material adherent or embedded within the adhesive substrate. The extracted nucleic acid can be used in downstream applications such as genotyping, detection, quantification, and identification of the source of the biological material.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for reducing susceptibility to infectious disease in bees using RNA interference technology, and more particularly, prevention and treatment of viral infections in honeybees such as Israel acute paralysis virus (IAPV) by feeding of pathogen-specific dsRNA. Further, multiple-pathogen specific dsRNA is disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides isolated nucleic acid molecules comprising short non-coding protein regulatory RNAs (sprRNA), variants, fragments and inhibitors thereof and compositions and methods of using the same.

Abstract: The invention provides means and methods for alleviating one or more symptom(s) of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and/or Becker Muscular Dystrophy. Therapies using compounds for providing patients with functional muscle proteins are combined with at least one adjunct compound for reducing inflammation, preferably for reducing muscle tissue inflammation, and/or at least one adjunct compound for improving muscle fiber function, integrity and/or survival.