Abstract: The invention is directed to systems, methods, and apparatus for carrying out multi-stage amplification reactions, especially under fluidly closed conditions. In one aspect, methods of the invention are carried out in a fluidly closed reaction system that permits the isolation of a portion of a first (or prior) reaction mixture and its use as a sample or specimen in a second (or subsequent) reaction mixture, thereby substantially avoiding interfering effects that first reaction components may have in the second reaction if both reaction mixtures were simply combined together. In this aspect, systems, methods, and apparatus of the invention may be used with any amplification reaction that permits multiple stages of amplification based on the use of nested primers.

Abstract: A method for making a premolded clip structure is disclosed. The method includes obtaining a first clip and a second clip, and forming a molding material around the first clip comprising a first surface and the second clip comprising a second surface. The first surface of the first clip structure and the second surface of the second clip structure are exposed through the molding material, and a premolded clip structure is then formed.

Abstract: Substrates are provided for use in the detection, identification and analysis of biologic or chemical samples that are labeled with a fluorescent label, in which the plane of maximum fluorescence is displaced from a reflective substrate surface so that the intensity maximum of the standing wave interference pattern of incident and reflected probe radiation is enhanced. The format of the substrates includes substantially planar surfaces as well as substrates with introduced variations to the substrate surface, e.g., depressions, wells, pedestals and the like, disposed in arrays or other similar structures such that one or more fluorophore-comprising objects can be attached thereto.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for treating or ameliorating diseases and other conditions, such as infectious diseases, autoimmune diseases and allergies are provided. The methods employ mono- and disaccharide-based compounds for selectively stimulating immune responses in animals and plants.