Abstract: The invention relates to a family of DNA insertion sequences (ISMY) of mycobacterial origin and other DNA probes which may be used a probes in assay methods for the identification of mycobacteria and the differentiation between closely related mycobacterial strains and species. In one method the probes are used to distinguish pathogenic M. paratuberculosis from M. avium, which finds an application in the diagnosis of Crohn's disease in humans and Johne's disease in animals. The use of ISMY, and of proteins and peptides encoded by ISMY, in vaccines, pharmaceutical preparations and diagnostic test kits is also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods and compositions are provided for treating drug-dependent individuals so as to effect withdrawal from the drug of abuse, e.g., natural and synthetic narcotics, or stimulant-type drugs such as cocaine, amphetamines, nicotine, or the like. The method involves substitution therapy wherein a serotonin antagonist such as ergotamine or a derivative thereof and a CNS stimulant such as caffeine are substituted for the drug of abuse.

Abstract: Method and apparatus of charge distribution analysis insulating and semiconducting dielectric materials to measure by using a Coulomb Balance surface/subsurface space charge layers and the sign, mobility and polarizability of charge carriers. The technique includes measuring the force, attractive or repellent, between a bias electrode to which a voltage is applied and a dielectric material in a condensor half cell arrangement. An apparatus is provided for heating a sample for causing the generation of surface/subsurface charges, and then for applying an external potential while the sample is maintained at a high temperature. The effective mass of the sample is detected by determining the amount of force necessary to restore a balance arm, by which the sample is supported, to its original position, the alteration in position being due to attractive or repulsive electrostatic forces between the sample and the electrodes.