Abstract: The present invention is a system and method for shortening response time and reducing resource utilization in an electronic advertising and customer enquiry system, operating in an interactive communications and distributed database environment. The system is designed to enable customers (01) to easily find product and service offerings that match their requirements for immediate local accessiblity (A1), as well as the customer's (01) specific product desires. Where a perfect match does not exist, slightly less satisfactory solutions are offered. Such product offerings and customer (01) desires have static and dynamic characteristics that effect their electronic publication, enquiry, matching, and subsequent response.

Abstract: A method for processing brewery waste that includes receiving spent grain, low strength wastewater and high strength wastewater. The spent grain, low strength wastewater and high strength wastewater is processed with a plug flow anaerobic digester to produce a first output. A portion of the first output is processed with an upflow anaerobic sludge blanket digester to produce a second output. A portion of the second output is processed with a fixed-film anaerobic digester to produce a third output.

Abstract: A system and a method for using a computer program to automate the process of searching and or retrieving data from a particular data pool for introduction to a user is provided. More specifically, a program is used that may robotically manipulate existing web sites using computer source codes that are generated all or in part by the computer program and/or software. The system may trace, monitor and analyze a browser or network application to produce transactions and manipulate the data retrieved to automatically access previously un-accessible data from a web site.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a device for determining a concentration of a biological active substance in a sample by the means of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The device comprises a solid support within a tubing for binding an immunosorbent and an inlet for fluids, a detector for detecting radiation due to an activity in the tubing, wherein the tubing is arranged inside a microchip extending substantially in one plane, for conducting the fluids along the plane of the microchip. The tubing forms a reaction cell having a large detection area. The reaction cell of the microchip is arranged perpendicular to the detector. The method comprises the steps of introducing the fluids into the tubing, conducting the fluids through the tubing forming a reaction cell, in which reaction cell the radiation emitting activity takes place, and detecting the light emitted from the reaction cell substantially perpendicular to the plane.

Abstract: Provided herein are methods relating to inhibition of PUMA function for preventing or reducing myocardial cell death. A method for preventing or reducing ischemia/reperfusion induced myocardial cell death in a human is provided as are methods for identifying pharmaceuticals which interfere with PUMA function. Also herein provided is a method for reducing stem cell death in stem cell explants wherein the explants are intended to restore cardiac efficiency following cell death in response to coronary infarct.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel method of inhibiting gap junction-mediated signaling in pyramid cells. Pyramidal gap junctions are quickly and reversibly inhibited by beta-amyloid or biologically active fragments thereof. The present invention also relates to the use of beta-amyloid as an anticonvulsant for the treatment of epilepsy and other pathological hypersynchrony conditions in humans and non-human animals.

Abstract: Disclosed are epitope-containing heat shock fusion proteins, DNA constructs encoding such fusion proteins, and methods of use. More specifically, disclosed are ubiquitin fusion proteins comprising ubiquitin fused to a plurality of identical or non-identical epitopes at specified locations.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of analyzing multidimensional data using a computer as well as methods of displaying multidimensional data to a user for further analysis. The present invention provides for a method and system for state model Fitting. The system components include a detector and a computer operably connected to the detector. The computer accesses one or more logic instructions for receiving and analyzing raw data from the detector and generating a state model of the raw data based on probability weights.

Abstract: The invention disclosed is a total organic carbon (TOC) analyzer comprised of an electrochemical cell comprising a diamond-film electrode (2) doped with boron or other conductivity including material. The diamond-film electrode is the working electrode and carries out the oxidation of TOC to produce carbon dioxide. The apparatus further comprises sensors for detecting the carbon dioxide produced. Such sensors include but are not limited to a tunable diode laser (1) and/or ion-selective electrode (5). The invention also discloses a method for measuring TOC in an aqueous solution using a total organic carbon analyzer.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are peptides comprising a leptin sequence and methods for their use in preventing ObR signaling in a leptin-responsive cell. A leptin peptide of the present invention binds to but does not activate ObR signaling in a leptin-responsive cell, thereby inhibiting the up-regulatory effects of leptin on ObR signaling in the leptin-responsive cell. Administration of the peptide effectively prevents embryo implantation in a mammal to which the peptide has been administered. Also disclosed herein is a method for identifying a peptide antagonist of ObR, wherein the peptide comprises a leptin sequence.

Abstract: The present invention includes a collapsible container defined by a continuous rigid structure and an interior liner that is uniformly affixed thereto. The continuous rigid structure is preferably four-sided such that it defines four continuous surfaces of a cube. The continuous rigid structure is collapsible due to at least one scoring line defined on at least one surface thereof. The liner is integrally affixed to each of the four sides and additionally provides a fifth side that forms the bottom of the container. A protective cover is secured to the exterior of the continuous rigid structure for protecting the contained materials against the elements. The cover can be selectively sealed for rendering the container of the present invention substantially impervious to the elements.

Abstract: Disclosed is a carrier-delivered dressing comprising a conformable film having first and second surfaces and a continuous outer perimeter. The conformable film includes a continuous strip of pressure-sensitive adhesive disposed on the first surface along a generally C-shaped first portion of the outer perimeter, and a second portion of the outer perimeter which is substantially adhesive-free. One or more release liners are provided which cover and protect the pressure-sensitive strip of adhesive prior to application. Alternative embodiments including a substantially continuous strip of pressure-sensitive adhesive around the continuous outer perimeter with one or more optionally removable release liners are also disclosed. Methods of use in which the dressings are applied in a shingled manner enable the convenient protection of long incisions or lacerations.

Abstract: A computer-based system for gathering, storing and transmitting contact information for wireless communication devices. The system includes a network station for compiling contact information received from wireless communication service providers. The compiled information is periodically updated and transmitted upon request. The system can be accessed by interface facilitators as well as by individuals interested in obtaining contact information, such as, for example, the calling number for a particular cellular phone.

Abstract: A folding wallet configured to fit the front pockets of trousers, thereby encouraging such use to avoid neurological injury caused by carrying a wallet in the rear pockets of trousers.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions (i.e., various organic small molecules as exemplified herein) and methods for the inhibition of protein splicing and especially relates to the inhibition of protein autosplicing of intein-containing proteins. Additionally, the present invention relates to the use of the inhibitors of protein splicing of the invention for the treatment of various diseases including but not limited to tuberculosis. Furthermore, the invention provides the first instance of small molecule inhibitors of protein splicing with drug-like characteristics.

Abstract: The present invention provides an MHC class II antigen presentation enhancing hybrid polypeptide. The hybrid has an N-terminus comprising the mammalian Ii key peptide LRMKLPKPPKPVSKMR (SEQ ID NO: 1) and modifications thereof which retain antigen presentation enhancing activity, a C-terminus comprising an antigenic epitope in the form of a polypeptide or peptidomimetic structure which binds to the antigenic peptide binding site of an MHC class II molecule, and an intervening chemical structure covalently linking the N-terminal and C-terminal components.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and method for the modulation of Wnt pathway signaling. The Wnt signaling pathway is instrumental in the regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation and morphogenesis.