Abstract: Disclosed are methods for ameliorating glycocalyx damage by administering a neuraminidase inhibitor. Also disclosed are methods for treating endothelial dysfunction and for improving flow mediated dilation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods useful for analyzing lariat RNA, which plays a role in the regulation of gene expression. A sample of RNA is specifically treated to remove linear mRNA and enrich for lariat RNA. The enriched lariat RNA sample may be analyzed further to identify introns, branch point sequences, alternative splicing patters, and gene transcription levels. The enriched lariat RNA sample may also be exploited as a detection or compound screening tool, as well as other uses.

Abstract: A composite material that includes a dopant comprised of pre-formed, three dimensional assemblies of skeletal structures that are comprised of solgel derived nanoparticles. The composite material includes a chemically bonded, in situ formed, polymer coating that at least partially coats mesoporous surfaces of the nanoparticles to provide enhancement of random dispersion of the dopant and to minimize or avoid agglomeration. Further, the polymer may be functionalized or the mesoporous surfaces of the nanoparticles may be treated to enable stronger chemical bonding between the dopant and the polymer.

Abstract: Methods and immunoassays for diagnosing a bite or sting of a venomous organism in a patient having symptoms consistent with such a bite or sting are provided. A sample of venom is collected from the area of the suspected bite or sting using a swab and then contacted with an antibody that specifically binds to an antigenic site on venom present in the sample. Binding is then detected. The invention is illustrated by examples showing diagnosis of brown recluse spider bite, distinguishing it from other diagnoses with which it is often confused. This extremely sensitive test can detect venom antigens down to about 20 picograms even after the sample has been shipped and stored for periods of up to three weeks during the summer.

Abstract: A catheter for hemodialysis comprises a flexible catheter tube defining a plurality of separate lumens. The catheter defines an arc angle of generally U-shape in its natural, unstressed configuration. Thus, the catheter may be implanted with a distal catheter portion residing in a vein of the patient, the distal catheter portion being of substantially the shape of the vein in its natural, unstressed condition. Also, a proximal catheter portion resides in a surgically created tunnel extending from the vein and through the skin of the patient, this section of the catheter also being typically in its natural, unstressed condition. Thus blood may be removed from the vein through one lumen of the catheter, and blood may be returned to the vein through another lumen of the catheter, while the catheter is subject to long term indwelling in the body.