Abstract: This invention relates to methods and compositions for the treatment of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus using an RXR agonist alone or in combination with a PPAR&ggr; agonist such as a thiazolidinedione compound.

Abstract: The present invention relates to agents for the promotion of oral hygiene and oral health, especially for the inhibition of bacterial plaque accumulation on teeth, dental prostheses and respective adjacent surfaces, for the prophylaxis and therapy of inflammations and diseases of the oral mucosa, gingiva, periodontium, and for caries prophylaxis. Agents for the promotion of oral hygiene and oral health, comprising ionically bound or free thiocyanate ions and carbamide perhydrate in addition to per se known additives and vehicles.

Abstract: The invention relates to an aerated flooring system for use in athletic arenas or gymnasiums. The flooring system includes a top layer that provides a surface for the activities to be conducted on the floor. The system also includes at least one ventilation device. The ventilation device covers an air flow shaft within the flooring system, helping to prevent debris from falling in the air flow shaft, but allowing air to flow through the ventilation device. The ventilation device allows air to ventilate out of the flooring system. A support layer below the top layer provides support to the flooring system. A ventilation layer below the flooring is sized to allow air movement through the layer. The air flow shafts allow air to travel from the ventilation layer to the ventilation device. A base is below the ventilation layer and provides support for the flooring system above. A blowing device is controlled by a computer system that monitors the system using sensors.

Abstract: Hybridization assay probes are described which are able to distinguish Ureaplasma and known strains or serotypes of the species Ureaplasma urealyticum found in humans from other related organisms.

Abstract: The present invention involves a simple, disposable, manual filtration and extraction device and method of use that provides a sample directly to an analytical method. The device is capable of providing a clarified liquid ready for analysis or disposal as appropriate for the specific analyte of interest, and is capable of capturing particulate materials and allowing for further extraction of those particles directly with the device. Once extracted, the device will deliver a liquid containing the analyte of interest to an analytical method. The filtration and extraction devise includes a pliant body having an open top end and an internal wall defining an inner chamber. A sealing mechanism is adapted to seal the open top end of the body. A gradient filter assembly including at least one filter is supported by a support assembly carried by the body.

Abstract: A flash camera with glare controlling ability for general photographic use is described. It includes at least two panchromatic reflective sheet polarizing filters. One filter is incorporated in the flash unit to produce a polarized light flash source. The flash source also incorporates light redirecting means such that a majority of light from the flash is directed toward the photographic scene. A second filter over the camera lens excludes that light originating from the flash source which is specularly reflected from the photographic scene.

Abstract: The present invention employs a swivelable locking member which is pivotally connected to upper frame supports on a play yard. The frame of the play yard also employs vertical supports whose spacing is maintained by a number of lateral extending members. Complementary inner and outer support members are employed to maintain the shape of the play yard and relative position of the structural members of the play yard. Alternatively, a motion inhibiting insert may be placed between adjacent lateral extending members. This, combined with the swivelable locking bracket, ensures easy pivot assembly or disassembly of the present invention, and ensures that the play yard will not accidentally collapse.