Abstract: Compositions and methods are provided for dewaxing wax-embedded biological specimens prior to histochemical analysis. The compositions and methods provided can effectively remove wax or improved wax-based embedding materials, particularly paraffin-based, from specimens during preparation for histochemical or other diagnostic analyses, while minimizing danger to users, achieving compatibility with automated use, and maintaining compatibility with downstream histochemical analyses, particularly immunostaining. Compositions of the invention comprise a paraffin-solubilizing organic solvent, a polar organic solvent, and a surfactant. Compositions can further comprise water. The method involves contacting a wax-embedded specimen with the dewaxing composition to solubilize the wax impregnating the specimen prior to histochemical analysis.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for synthesizing cDNA in vivo are disclosed, wherein a synthetic polynucleotide molecule which anneals in vivo to an RNA template molecule is utilized as a primer for reverse transcriptase in vivo.

Abstract: Disclosed is an automated staining apparatus including an arm (30) moveable in three dimensions, and a hollow tip head (70) located on the arm including integral reagent tip head (40), wash tip (41) and blow tip (42) for selectively dispensing gas and liquid onto microscope slides. Also disclosed are various sub-components of the apparatus that are specifically adapted to the processing of specimens on slides.

Abstract: Releasing the embedding medium from an embedded histochemically reactive tissue specimen is provided by contacting the embedded tissue specimen with a releasing composition under conditions sufficient to release a sufficient portion of the embedding medium associated with the histochemically reactive tissue specimen to permit analysis without substantial adverse effect on the histochemical reactivity of the specimen.

Abstract: Methods and compositions that act as specific inhibitors of ALF activity for the prophylaxis and treatment of anthrax infections.

Abstract: System, method and apparatus for two dimensional gel electrophoresis performed in a unified manner which includes the performance of two fragment separations in a single gel without intermediate physical manipulation.

Abstract: Methods for improving the efficiency of electroporation protocols as well as methods to enhance the permeabilized state, in order to improve the intracellular delivery of therapeutic substances, involve the use of at least one agent which is capable of prolonging the permeability of the cell membranes in the tissue exposed to an electroporation-inducing electrical field.

Abstract: Electrodes and electrode array apparatus and systems for in vivo delivery of electrical waveforms rendering therapeutic benefit to the patient by utilizing an electrode array having at least three electrodes disposed so as to form an isosceles triangle in a plane intersecting the electrodes and electrical signal generating means operatively connected to the electrodes for delivering electrical waveforms to said electrodes and generating electroporation-inducing electrical fields between the electrodes

Abstract: A method for the extraction of proanthocyanidins from plant material is disclosed. The method involves heating an aqueous mixture of solid plant material, optionally under increased pressure and reduced oxygen; various separation, filtration and adsorption steps, and the elution of adsorbed proanthocyanidins with polar solvent. Optionally, the polar solvent can be reconstituted and recycled into the elution phase of the method, resulting in decreased solvent consumption.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for treating allergic reactions, including cutaneous, ocular, nasal and Bronchial allergic disease, are disclosed. Interleukin-1 and Tumor Necrosis Factor receptors, and analogues thereof, are employed which bind the respective effector competitively and thereby suppress allergic reactions.