Abstract:
The present invention provides compositions and methods for detecting MMP-induced malignancies by detecting Rac1b expression. The invention further provides compositions and in vitro and in vivo methods for inhibiting MMP-induced malignant transformation by modulating Rac1b expression and/or function.
Abstract:
The present invention provides a process for identifying substances that modulate the activity of hyperpolarization-activated cation channels, and the use of this process.
Abstract:
Media, kits, and methods are disclosed for use in processes requiring microbial culture. More specifically, the invention provides carrageenan-stabilized agar-based microbial culture media for kits and methods. The media and kits of the invention possess increased shelf-life stability over currently available agar-based media. Further, the media, kits, and methods are useful in the manual determination of identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing of the pathogen/s contained in a specimen or sample in periods of about 12 to 24 hours. The stabilized culture media of the invention are useful in a broad variety of applications.
Abstract:
The present invention provides a process for identifying substances that modulate the activity of hyperpolarization-activated cation channels, and the use of this process.
Abstract:
Disc assay devices and methods for the detection and enumeration of microorganisms are disclosed. The devices and methods include a plurality of discs attached to a substrate and a reflector on one surface of each of the discs to reflect electromagnetic energy of selected wavelengths after the energy has passed through the disc. The reflector may be useful to improve the accuracy of detection and/or enumeration of target microorganisms on the assay devices. A system for detecting and/or enumerating target microorganisms on disc assay devices is also provided.
Abstract:
The invention concerns a culture medium for isolating enterococcus comprising violet crystal, and preferably gram-negative bacteria inhibitors and chromogens. The invention also concerns a method for detecting enterococcus using said medium.
Abstract:
A process of microdissection where a tissue sample is conventionally visualized in a microscope. A selectively activatable convex surface is provided, preferably on the periphery at the distal end of a rod. This selectively activatable convex surface when locally activated, typically with a laser through an optic light path in the microscope, provides the activated region with adhesive properties. The tissue sample has at least one portion, which is to be extracted is identified. This identified portion is contacted with a portion of the selectively activatable convex surface on the periphery of the rod. When the convex surface is locally activated, typically by exposure to laser light in the footprint of the desired portion, an adhesive transfer surface on the selectively activatable convex surface is activated which adheres to the desired cells in the footprint of the desired portion. Thereafter, the adhesive transfer surface is separated from the remainder of the tissue sample while maintaining adhesion with the portion of the sample. Thus the desired portion of the tissue sample is extracted. The disclosed selectively activatable convex surface is preferably utilized to collect desired tissue samples at more than one location on the same slide or from different slides. A rod having a convex surface with the selectively activatable material is set forth as a staple for use with the apparatus and process. Preferred shapes for the convex surface are disclosed as well as a method for coating rods.
Abstract:
The activation of neurons in specific areas of a mammalian brain are determined by measurement of levels of mRNA following administration of an agent that potentially affects neuronal activity. Differential levels of mRNA caused by an agent can be measured, as can the specific distribution of the alteration of neuronal activity. Many mental disorders are associated with the abnormal function of a particular area of the brain. The present invention allows the determination of which area of the brain, if any, is affected by an administered agent. Accordingly, the invention provides a valuable tool for assaying compounds as potential therapeutic agents.
Abstract:
An apparatus for determining the antimicrobial agent sensitivity of a paraffinophilic microorganism from a specimen obtained from a patient. The apparatus includes a receptacle containing an aqueous solution, an amount of antimicrobial agent to be tested and the specimen. The apparatus further consists of a paraffin coated slide placed into the receptacle.
Abstract:
Biological probes useful for detecting mycoplasmas or prokaryotes in general, or specific mycoplasma and eubacterial species are derived from the ribosomal RNA gene by selecting particular nucleotide sequences common to the class of organisms being detected.