Abstract: This invention provides compositions and methods for genetic testing of an organism and for correlating the results of the genetic testing with a unique marker that unambiguously identifies the organism. The markers may be internal markers, such as for example single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), short tandem repeats (STRs), or other sites within a genomic locus. Alternatively, the markers may be external, such that they are separately added to the genetic sample before testing.

Abstract: Solute-loaded polymer microparticles are obtained by immersing microparticles in a bath comprising a selected solute dissolved in a ternary solvent system. A first solvent of the ternary system is a strong solvent for both the solute and the polymer from which the microparticle was formed. A second solvent is a weak solvent or non-solvent for the solute and the polymer (tuning solvent). A third solvent is a weak solvent or non-solvent for the solute and polymer, but serves as a co-solvent with respect to the first and second solvents in that it is miscible with both the first and second solvents. The amount of solute incorporated into the microparticles is controlled by adjusting the ratio of solute with respect to the microparticle polymer, and by adjusting the composition of the ternary solvent system, principally the amount of tuning solvent.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for fractionation of a mixture of particles and for particle analysis are provided, in which LEAPS (“Light-controlled Electrokinetic Assembly of Particles near Surfaces”) is used to fractionate and analyze a plurality of particles suspended in an interface between an electrode and an electrolyte solution. A mixture of particles are fractionated according to their relaxation frequencies, which in turn reflect differences in size or surface composition of the particles. Particles may also be analyzed to determine their physical and chemical properties based on particle relaxation frequency and maximal velocity.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the manipulation of colloidal particulates and biomolecules at the interface between an insulating electrode such as silicon oxide and an electrolyte solution. Light-controlled electrokinetic assembly of particles near surfaces relies on the combination of three functional elements: the AC electric field-induced assembly of planar aggregates; the patterning of the electrolyte/silicon oxide/silicon interface to exert spatial control over the assembly process; and the real-time control of the assembly process via external illumination. The present invention provides a set of fundamental operations enabling interactive control over the creation and placement of planar arrays of several types of particles and biomolecules and the manipulation of array shape and size. The present invention enables sample preparation and handling for diagnostic assays and biochemical analysis in an array format, and the functional integration of these operations.

Abstract: Disclosed is a formulation for preserving the life of probiotic bacteria during passage through the stomach, while permitting their release in the intestine, and which has a low water activity and correspondingly long shelf life. These formulations are designed to retain potency up to the product expiration date. The formulation includes a substantially water-free mixture of probiotic bacteria with monovalent alginate salts, wherein the mixture has been formed and is maintained in a substantially water-free environment. The alginate salts include sodium alginate and potassium alginate, but not divalent salts such as magnesium alginate or calcium alginate. Generally, an enteric coating (e.g., gelatin or cellulose encapsulation) for the formulation is provided.

Abstract: An apparatus providing programmable illumination pattern generation for the manipulation of colloidal particulates and biomolecules in suspension between electrodes, is disclosed. The apparatus implements LEAPS (Light-controlled electrokinetic assembly of particles near surfaces), which relies on: AC electric field-induced assembly of particles: the patterning of the electrolyte/silicon oxide/silicon interface to exert spatial control over the assembly process; and the real-time control of the assembly process via external illumination. The apparatus generates patterns of illumination and projects them on to planar surfaces. i.e., a LEAPS electrode.

Abstract: A particular epitope located within the CD4-binding region of gpl20 of HIV-1, and antibodies specific for the epitope which can inhibit HIV-1 infection of human cells by diverse strains and isolates of the virus, is disclosed. The antibodies are useful for a number of purposes, including diagnosis of HIV-1 infection.

Abstract: Disclosed is a shaving preparation to aid in prevention and treatment of PFB (ingrown hairs), which includes from about 0.1 to 6% by weight salicylic acid; a glucocorticoid in amount effective to reduce inflammation; and from about 0.5 to 5% by weight sulfur. In the shaving preparation the glucocorticoid can be, for example, triamcinolone acetate (about 0.025 to 0.1% by weight) hydrocortisone USP (about 0.1 to 2.5% by weight), or hydrocortisone acetate USP (about 0.1 to 2.5% by weight), and the sulfur can be in precipitated, sublimed or colloidal form. A number of other ingredients can also be included. Alternatively, the preparation can be separated so the active ingredients are in two or three separate parts, which are applied at various stages in the shaving process. The preparation is to be applied to the skin surface before and/or after shaving.