Abstract: A system is provided for filtering a substance from a solution for subsequent analysis of the substance. The system has a manifold and a removable cover capable of latching onto a base defining an interior of the manifold. Apertures are formed in the cover capable of receiving columns having a filter for filtering the substance from the solution as solution is drawn through the columns into the manifold. The columns may be integrally formed to provide a set of columns. As a result, an array of apertures can receive a number of sets of columns to conduct the filtering process.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the simultaneous amplification of multiple distinct genetic loci using PCR or other amplification systems to determine in one reaction the alleles of each of the loci contained within the multiplex.

Abstract: The present invention relates to electrochemical cells, and more particularly to secondary lithium intercalation cells. Nickel is employed as a component "M" in an active cathode material represented by the formula Li.sub.x M.sub.y O.sub.z, where "x" and "y" are generally about 1, and "z" is generally about 2. In the present invention "M.sub.y " is divided into two components, a first major component of nickel, corresponding to at least 70% of "M.sub.y," and a second minor component comprising at least one of a non-transition metal selected from the group consisting of aluminum, gallium, tin, and zinc, and in some embodiments at least one transition metal selected from the group consisting of scandium and the Period 5 metals having atomic numbers between 39 and 42. A two-stage reaction process for making the compounds of the active cathode materials of the present invention is described.

Abstract: Methods for controllably creating agglomerates from particles of colloidal dimensions. Creation of agglomerates permits physical isolation or separation of, e.g., unwanted cell debris from cleared cell lysate comprising target particles, by the deposition or creation of a blocking or masking layer. Chaotropic agents are utilized to enhance colloidal particle agglomeration. The resulting agglomerant or "floc" can be deposited, as needed, in a separation/isolation process to create a blocking or masking layer on an "as needed" basis.

Abstract: A hollow lumen cable is formed by helically winding inner and outer coils with the helices of each coil being in an abutting relationship and the outer coil inner diameter being less than the outer, peripheral, diameter of the inner coil. Preferably, each coil is multifilar. After the coils are wound, an unwinding force is applied to the outer coils and the inner coils is inserted into the outer coils to have its winding inclined opposite to that of the outer coil; and thence, the outer coils is allowed to contract to form an interference fit with the inner coil. The cable may be incorporated as part of various medical systems e.g., implantable pumps or other rotatable medical apparatus. The cable is bendable about the tight radii, has a high torque transfer, a small outer diameter, and a hollow lumen through which fluid, wires or medical devices may pass.

Abstract: Methods for separating target particles, from a test medium in which the particles are suspended. The method contemplates utilization of blocking or masking particles which block or mask unwanted biological debris which tends to interfere with formation of complexes by which the target particles can be isolated. After centrifugation, the masking particles create a barrier between unwanted debris and test medium containing the target particles which permits the particles to be manipulated or modified without removing them from the debris. In a preferred aspect, magnetic separation techniques are used. In this aspect, non-magnetic 0.04 micron carboxylated polystyrene blocking particles are employed.

Abstract: A catheter for insertion in body vessels for removing occlusions or obstructions such as thrombus, clot, plaque and other vascular or arterial deposits without generating distal emboli. Removal of freshly or recently formed obstructions is a preferred application. Concurrently or subsequently, suction or aspiration removal of the resulting occlusion debris is disclosed. A catheter system of this invention comprises elongate, hollow, inner and outer coaxial catheters having distal and proximal ends. The distal end of the outer catheter terminates short of the distal end of the inner catheter. The catheters may be independently movable with respect to each other. The inner catheter wall defines a central lumen which fluidically couples the proximal and distal ends of the inner catheter and through which a guidewire can pass. The central lumen has a reduced diameter distal portion which, with an occluder means (e.g., a guidewire), is adapted to restrict distal fluid delivery therethrough.

Abstract: A method and composition for the enhanced stimulation of antigenic response in animals and humans is disclosed. The method involves administering an effective amount of a compound of formula (I): ##STR1## wherein R.sub.1 is hydrogen or hydroxyl. L-carnitine and gamma-butyrobetaine are preferred compositions embraced by formula (I).

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for separating magnetically responsive particles from a nonmagnetic test medium in which the magnetically responsive particles are suspended. The separator comprises a container comprising, e.g., plurality of multiwell chambers, which hold the nonmagnetic test medium, one or more pins disposed substantially within the test medium, an external magnet for producing a magnetic field within the test medium. The external magnet is proximate the pins so as to create magnetic flux lines, magnetizing the pins and creating a magnetic field substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pins thereof in the test medium. According to the method of the invention, the container holding the test medium is positioned in the separator, producing a magnetic field operative to cause the magnetically responsive particles to be attracted to and adhere to the pins and which is substantially parallel thereto.

Abstract: A guidewire extension system including a guidewire and an extension wire is disclosed. The system includes female and male connector segments located on the proximal end of the guidewire or the distal end of the extension wire. The hollow female connector segment, in one embodiment, includes a radial lip which intersects with lateral slots. The male connector segment includes an external groove. When the male connector is inserted into the female connector segment, the slots are expanded and the lip snaps into the groove providing a tactile indication that connection is completed.No restriction or frictional fit is created. The guidewire and extension wire are freely rotatable with respect to each other and can be multiply connected and disconnected. Methods of catheter exchange with tactile indication of guidewire extension wire connection are disclosed.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to syringes which include a substantially rigid, hollow syringe body, a plunger and a flexible, finger-conformable grip, guard, collar or collet which are disposed about one end thereof.

Abstract: An iontophoretic agent delivery device having a simplified structure and ease of manufacture. The device utilizes an electrical pathway comprising a source of electrical energy and an output means. The electrical pathway is disposed upon one of the two sides of a flexible, non-conductive substrate (e.g., a film). The output means of the pathway are connected directly or indirectly, e.g., by means of an electrically conductive adhesive tape, to the remaining components of the device such as current distribution members, lead wires, or electrodes. In this arrangement, the circuit is inverted from that of conventional devices. Economical, reel-to-reel methods of manufacturing a one-sided iontophoretic circuit apparatus of the invention are disclosed.